Issuu

May 2015 | Vol. 2 Iss. 5

FREE Chief Lindsay Shepherd Retires After 31 Years Of Service By Aimee L. Cook

ou might say law enforcement is in the blood of the Shepherd Family. As a young boy, Chief Lindsay Shepherd was greatly influenced by his own father who was also in law enforcement and finished his career as Police Chief at the University of Utah. Chief Shepherd also has two brothers and a son who are currently police officers, a sister in the Bureau of Criminal Identification as well as a late uncle who was also an officer; it’s quite a family affair. Chief Shepherd began his career as a reserve officer in Draper City in 1983, and within a year he transferred to South Jordan as a patrol officer where he worked his way up the ranks and was appointed Chief of Police in 1999, making him the fourth Chief of Police for South Jordan. “I think the most rewarding was watching a police department that, when I started, had only a seven man department, progress to a full service organization with 50 officers,” said Chief Shepherd. “Being able to, through the police department, the city and the citizens of the city, maintain a low crime rate and help maintain a quality of life that our citizens can enjoy and have come to expect.” Chief Shepherd said, of the challenges of his job, was remaining competitive with other agencies and making sure they continue to keep the City of South Jordan a safe environment, one that the citizens feel comfortable

Chief Lindsay continued on page 4

Pageant Is About More Than A Pretty Face By Aimee L. Cook

Current Miss South Jordan, Lexi Yraguen.

loving the parkway

finishing touches

gearing up

vening gowns, swimsuits and high heels, the obvious signs of a pageant. But there is so much more to becoming a pageant queen than what immediately meets the eye. Former Miss South Jordan turned Volunteer Pageant Director, Heather Jackman said that there is so much more to pageant life than people realize. “Most people think that pageants are just pretty girls walking around in swimsuits,” Jackman said. “However, that is only 15% of the overall score. Scoring is as follows: one on one Interview 25%, Talent 35%, Evening Gown 20%, Swimsuit 15%, on stage question 5%. Interview and your platform are a huge part of the pageant that people do not realize. These girls are applying for a job with the city. They will be involved in a lot more than just the floats in the summer.” Lexi Yraguen is the current Miss South Jordan. Although Lexi did not grow-up participating in pageants, she had what it takes to take home the crown. “Winning the title of Miss South Jordan was incredible,” said Lexi. “I never expected to one day be a ‘Miss’, but it has taught me more about myself than anything; a once in a lifetime opportunity.” Lexi was able to use her title of Miss South Jordan and her platform of Speak Up-Reach Out, a suicide pre-

outstanding educators

Pageant continued on page 4

“It’s a heartening experience to see art students stand in front of a Monet or Renoir and see the great artist’s work and understand the impact this individual has.”

page 10

Local Postal Customer ECRWSS

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

Page 2 | May 2015

S outh Jordan City Journal

NEWS

Residents Tell Us “Why I Love The Parkway”

t’s an early, but warm spring morning under a clear sky, around nine in the morning. The birds are singing and enjoying a spring feast. In fact, everyone on the Jordan River Parkway at the Winchester trailhead has spring fever. You can see it in their faces, which is why I asked for their opinion on the Parkway.

“I feel blessed to live in the

city and still have all of this beauty around me.”

Pat Mongiat and Mia on the Parkway for their daily walk.

Seraphina Jones on the Winchester trail.

to the mountains.” “I feel blessed to live in the city and still have all of this beauty around me,” Rebecca said. This opinion is shared by many others. “It’s peaceful and beautiful and there’s no traffic. That’s the biggest reason to come,” Seraphina Jones says. For many, the biggest reason for coming is nature. Dave Brown, a regular, says, “It’s a nice, natural setting. I’ve seen deer, foxes, and all kinds of animals along the trail,” he says. Bill Wagner, a retired nature photographer, says he’s there for the fishing. Several others have come for bird watching, binoculars in hand. They point out the many species of birds along the Parkway. Karen Tibbitts, Pat Mongiat and others point to the safety of being surrounded by pleasant people on the trails. Mongiat comes every day for the fresh air and to exercise her dog, Mia. She moved to the area from

THE SOUTH JORDAN TEAM

There are no shortage of answers. Paul and Rebecca Simmons give a litany of reasons, including sage advice like “nature is good for the soul” and “it promotes a healthy body, mind and spirit.” Paul calls the Parkway “beautiful and peaceful,” and says “it rids us of all the stress of the day. It is also much quicker than going

Flagstaff, Ariz. a year ago. With a look of appreciation for what the cities have done for residents by providing the Parkway, she says, “I thoroughly enjoy it! It’s safe, there are no cars, and everyone obeys the rules.” I caught up to a mother and daughter team on their way out of the park. Emily Giles and Lori Pond tell me they’ve just broken off from the Bennion East Stake Youth Group. “Our youth group trains for track on the Parkway two or three times a week,” said Lori Pond,

the Parkway than others and that some areas still need a little dressing up. Other point to the empty doggie bag dispenser, but none of it stops them from coming. All in all, people feel the city fathers and the Jordan River Commission have done a great public service with the Parkway. Restoration and is ongoing all the time along the Parkway spring conservation activities are coming up in May. They include: Get into the River – Conservation Day on Thursday,

Lori Pond on her way home.

Bill Wagner fishing for catfish.

the group’s leader. “Our family also uses the picnic areas for church and family parties.” There seems to be no lack of reasons behind why people love the Jordan River Parkway, or why they choose it for exercise and their recreational and nature walks. A few noted that they feel safer on some parts of

May 14, and Get Into the River – Festival Day on Saturday, May 30. All are encouraged to join with others to help preserve, maintain and restore the 51 mile long park. For more information about the parkway, the calendar of events and ongoing projects, go to jordanrivercommission.com l m i ss i o n s tate m e n t

Creative Director Bryan Scott: bryan@mycityjournals.com Assistant Editor: Lewi Lewis: lewis@mycityjournals.com Staff Writers: Julie Slama, James Luke, Aimee L. Cook and Janice Vincent Ad Sales: 801-264-6649 Sales Associates: Ryan Casper: 801-671-2034 Melissa Worthen: 801-897-5231 Circulation Coordinator: Vitaly Kouten: Circulation@mycityjournals.com Editorial & Ad Design: Ty Gorton

By Janice Vincent

The SJ Journal is distributed on the fourth Friday of each month directly to residents via the USPS as well as locations throughout South Jordan. For information about distribution please email delivery@myutahjournals. com or call our offices. Rack locations are also available on our website. For subscriptions please contact: delivery@myutahjournals.com This publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the express written consent of the owner.

Our mission is to inform and entertain our community while promoting a strong local economy via relevant content presented across a synergetic network of print and digital media. free . community. papers .

South Jordan City Journal 8679 South 700 West Sandy, UT 84070 Phone: 801 264 6649

designed, published & distributed by

May 2015 | Page 3

S outh JordanJournal .com

CALL (801) 997-5503 TODAY!

Great care so you can focus elsewhere.

9660 South 1300 East Sandy, UT 84094

801.501.2600

www.AltaViewHospital.org

www.facebook.com/AltaViewHospital

Page 4 | May 2015

S outh Jordan City Journal

NEWS

Chief Lindsay continued from page 1

Pageant continued from page 1

in when walking the streets. “I will miss the friendships I have made with other officers, city staff, and other police department organizations, and especially the people that have worked for me in my department,” Chief Shepherd said. “But I look forward to enjoying life and not feel the need to go a 100 miles per hour. I have seen a lot of change in South Jordan, and the quality of life here makes this a great city to live in.” Pam Rasmussen, Senior Animal Control Officer, has worked for Chief Shepherd for 22 years. Rasmussen said that the Chief’s retirement is bittersweet; the department will be losing an icon. “It’s been an honor to work under Sgt. / Chief Lindsay Shepherd for the past 22 years,” said Rasmussen. “The Chief has his serious goal setting and achievement demeanor and then there is his ‘human cheer up’, prankster side. He has continued to strive in making South Jordan City an enjoyable and safe community to live in. He has carried his responsibilities to the highest level which flows over to the rest of the staff. Besides being my supervisor for all of these years, he and his family have become great friends.” Chief Shepherd says he plans to spend more time with his family, including finally getting to that ‘honey-do’ his wife has been patiently waiting on. l

vention program, to reach hundreds of youth in the community. “I was able to do so many things this year as Miss South Jordan,” said Lexi. “I participated in DARE programs at several different elementary schools, talked to over 100 scouts about respecting women, and I talked to many about techniques of preventing suicide and comforted many who have dealt with a loss of a loved one. This was probably the best part about my year as Miss South Jordan.” Morgan Bell won 1 st attendant in last year’s pageant, also her first pageant experience. She will be returning to the pageant this year in hopes of taking home the title of Miss South Jordan. “I have been a dancer my whole life so I was used to being on stage, but the interview and onstage questions were very new to me,” said Morgan. “I was able to learn great interview skills from competing in the Miss South Jordan pageant and I learned how to speak in front of people and gained a lot of confidence in this area of competition. These skills also helped me as I continued on to my first year of college at Brigham Young University.” The Miss South Jordan Pageant takes place on May 8-9. The winner takes home the crown and a $2500 scholarship. l

City To Add Finishing Touches To Stretch Of 2700 West By James Luke

he students at Monte Vista Elementary School, worshippers at the LDS Chapel next door, and the growing number of residents who call 2700 West home between 11400 South and 10400 South will all benefit from new sidewalks, curb and gutters and drainage improvements along the length of the west side

2700 WEST SIDEWALK PROJECT Area affected: 2700 West between 11400 South and 10400 South, west side of street primarily Projects Proposed: 1. Complete sidewalk along entire west side of street 2. Curb and gutters tied in with driveways to access current properties 3. Water, sewer, and drainage improvements General Fund: $700,000 Streetlights budget allocation: $66,000 Water Operations Fund: $118,855 Transportation Impact Fees: $132,874 Storm Drain Fund: $541,579 Less sums already expended on project: ($142,455) Minus Right of Way easements: ($70,000) Total project amount (plus 10% contingency fund): $2,346,853 From State of Utah: $1,000,000 From South Jordan: $1,346,853

of the road. Construction is already underway near the south end of the stretch and will be a part of the total improvements under a new resolution adopted by the City Council to fill the funding gap of some $296,000 in the budget for all of the projects involved in the development plan.

May 2015 | Page 5

S outh JordanJournal .com

FREE DELIVERY On $250 minimum bulk product purchase Extra delivery fees apply outside of the Salt Lake Valley. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Expires 5/31/15

10% OFF

On $50 minimum bulk product purchase Cannot be combined with any other offer. Expires 5/31/15

119

.00 per bag

$20.00 Delivery Fee Per Order. Extra delivery fees apply outside of the Salt Lake Valley.

Page 6 | May 2015

S outh Jordan City Journal

NEWS

City Council Signs On To Salt Lake County’s New Vote By Mail System

City Plaza Fountain And Ice Rink To Go?

By James Luke

t the March 17, 2015 meeting, the South Jordan City Council again voted 4-1 in favor for an agreement with Salt Lake County that will feature an entirely absentee, Vote by Mail system in the city’s upcoming elections. Originally passed without fanfare at the Feb. 17 meeting, the council rescheduled the proposal for another vote after residents expressed concerns about the new absentee voting system that is now the standard for all voters in the city. Residents reacted quickly when they learned of the council’s vote in late February to go to the new default of Vote by Mail in the upcoming elections. South Jordan resident Janalee Tobias requested that the issue be put back on the council calendar for reconsideration, which allowed a handful of residents to speak on the proposal. Salt Lake County Clerk Sheri Swenson answered council questions and explained the Vote by Mail system at the March 17 council session, and councilmembers listened to resident concerns. “Every single day counts in an election,” Tobias noted at the council meeting. “With vote by mail, people vote very early. Ballots must be postmarked the day before the election.” Other residents agreed, and also joined with dissenting councilmember Steve Barnes in lamenting the loss of the community gathering opportunity found at the traditional neighborhood-based polling center on Election Day. The County Elections Division provided a 2015 Election Estimate for South Jordan that shows a cost for Vote by Mail

Grief Support Group

A LOCATNIG STOCK IMAGE

Election of nearly $67,000. Based on assumptions of 17,083 active voters, with 5,123 already registered as permanent mail voters, the county is prepared in 2015 for a South Jordan primary election and the General Election vote on three city council seats. The cost estimate from the county notes that the city’s bill “for traditional polls would have been $75,165.20. However, we are not offering that option this year.” Under the new Vote by Mail system, one Voting Center remains with a physical voting machine for those voters who prefer to cast a ballot in the more traditional way -- South Jordan City Hall will host a polling station on Election Day. The city hall will also have a drop box for voters to submit completed ballots on Election Day. Salt Lake County Offices will have an outdoor, 24-hour drop box for completed ballots, open until 8 p.m. on Election Day. l

t the April 7, 2015 work session the city council agreed on a proposal presented by city staff to begin the planning process to redesign the plaza that currently holds a winter ice-skating mini-rink and summertime fountain. Located near 10675 Redwood Road, between the Pie Pizzeria building on the north and the South Jordan branch of the County Library on the south, the rink first saw ice-skaters in the winter of 2005 - 2006. Ten years later, the unique water feature that converts to a fountain in summer months leaks horribly, and is in need of costly repairs. Dustin Lewis, Administrative Services Director, explained to the council that the leaks have gotten progressively worse in the past five years, after starting in summer of 2010. The complex pipes for the equipment are set in concrete designed to carry liquid in the summer to operate the fountain, but not to be protected from the winter freeze when the pool is iced-over for skating; the pipes are very difficult to access for analysis and repairs, Lewis explained. Members of staff from various city departments including the Water Department have taken a shot at sleuthing the works for clues as to how to end the yearly deluge that floods the equipment room below the plaza, but to no avail. The cost to hire outside experts is very costly, Lewis reports, and has no guarantee of solving the problem, either.

Coping with Loss Loss and Grief Resources Grief is a powerful emotion that can be overwhelming. The purpose of our six-week program is to help bereaved people better understand and cope with the grieving process. Call today to register or find out more.

2015 Grief Support Group Schedule Six-week structured group for adults • Thursdays, March 12 – April 9, 6 p.m.

• Tuesdays, May 5 – June 9, 6:30 p.m.

• Wednesdays, August 5 – September 9, 6 p.m.

Yearly Holiday Memorial Service • Thursday, December 10, 7 p.m.

801-561-8888

EXT. 3203

801-964-3100 EXT. 3582

Fountain continued on page 7

S outh JordanJournal .com

May 2015 | Page 7

CITY COUNCIL REPORTS

Getting To Know South Jordan And An Update On AEDs

www.SouthJordanJournal.com

By Steve Barnes, South Jordan City Council Member

even years ago my family moved back to Utah. After looking around the valley for a place to live we quickly fell in love with South Jordan. I had always wanted to get involved in the community but was never sure what the best way to do that would be. One night I decided to find out more about my new home and when looking at the official city website I found out about South Jordan University. I was so excited to find that such a program exists! It just makes so much sense. Every city should really have a program like this! Furthermore, every elected official in the city should graduate from this program as a prerequisite to holding office! Don’t let the name fool you. When you enroll in South Jordan University you don’t have to worry about tuition, the course is totally free. Don’t like taking tests? Not a problem! There are no tests or quizzes and there isn’t even any homework! Attendance isn’t a problem either since the class is only one night a week (typically on Wednesdays from 6:30 to 8:30). South Jordan University offers you an amazing opportunity to learn things about your city that you never knew before. With all of the news stories and communications from the City Council about Mulligans lately, you may have started to feel like you live in Mulligans City! Residents that attended South Jordan University within the last year may have been pleasantly surprised to find out that there is so much more to South Jordan than just Mulligans. The course runs eight weeks and highlights approximately 20 different departments within the city including: Finance, Risk and Emergency Management Development Services (Community Development,

Fountain continued from page 6 Mayor David Alvord expressed his reservations at simply eliminating the 10-year-old civic plaza feature, noting that, “they don’t just tear out a fountain in Europe if it has a problem.” Ultimately, though, he agreed that the cost to the city to construct the feature a decade ago is “a sunk cost” that cannot be recovered, and it makes sense to think of the best uses for the plaza going forward. Don Tingey, Strategic Services Director, noted that in spring 2014, staff consulted with architectural and design experts on how to improve the appearance and functionality of the plaza surrounding the fountain. He said, “the

Planning and Engineering) Public Works with a Tour of Municipal Services Building City Commerce (aka Economic Development) and South Jordan City Fire SJC Justice Court and SJC Police Department Administrative Services Department with a tour of the Gale Center. Elected Officials, City Recorder, and a Tour of the Communication Center Graduation Ceremony during City Council Meeting

he Spring Session of South Jordan University is currently in progress but you can still register to attend the Fall Session which typically begins in late August or early September. You can register by going to www.sjc.utah.gov/southjordanuniversity.asp or calling the city at (801) 254-3742. South Jordan University is run by Melinda Nagai, the Associate Director of Administrative Services for South Jordan City. Melinda is one of the many exceptional employees that help make South Jordan a great place to live and she brings that exceptionalism to this program. South Jordan University has been in place since 2007, has graduated more than 300 participants, and in 2010 received the “Making Democracy Work” award! I want to take this opportunity to also follow up my South Valley Journal article from March of 2013 titled “Do We Need To Be Compelled To Do Good Things?” In that article I wrote about the unfunded mandate for certain businesses to provide public access defibrillators. I’m pleased to announce that earlier this month the City Council voted to establish a rebate program for businesses that complied. Hurry though! You only have 90 days to apply for the rebate! l plaza is too hot in the summer to support trees.” And as a result, the area is now mostly bare concrete without landscaping. The fountain does attract unwanted bathers, however, who consider the water open for splashing in hot months, which it is not designed to accommodate. Ultimately, council directed staff to prepare a Request for Proposals to begin the process of redesigning the plaza area. Two large portions amounting to more than a third of the plaza land is owned by Salt Lake County, so the council anticipates working with library officials, as well as the public and many others, in the process of considering the best new use for the plaza. l

Meticulous

planning. ______________________________

Customized services. ________________________________________

The dignity your loved one deserves. ________________________________________

Larkin professionals help you

get every detail just right. ________________________________________

Mortuary.Cemetery.Mausoleum.CremationCenter. ________________________________________

Pre-planning. Comfort and compassion.

801.363.5781 Mortuary • Cemetery • Mausoleum • Cremation Center LarkinMortuary.com

Page 8 | May 2015

EDUCATION

S outh Jordan City Journal

Bingham Debate Students Gear Up For Nationals By Julie Slama

welve Bingham High students will be spending the end of the school year researching and practicing for the National Speech and Debate Tournament. The Tournament, the largest academic competition in the world, will be held in Dallas June 14-19. Bingham High hosted the national qualifier March 7 and took first place overall. Those who qualified in policy debate include the teams of sophomore John Shackelford and junior Olivia Whiteley, sophomore Dillan Stevens and junior Chandler Ward and sophomores Tanner Lertsongkham and Nataly Welch. In Lincoln-Douglas debate, senior Miriam Leany and junior Megan Barnhurst qualified. Also qualifying for nationals are senior Tavish Monroe and junior Brooke Haldeman in public forum; junior Emerson Ford in foreign extemporary; and sophomore Kristina Bennett in national extemporary. “Some of our students don’t have their new topics, but we’re already looking for new arguments, new strategies to prepare,” said Bingham first-year speech and debate coach Mike Bausch. “We want to have a few surprises that other students and coaches aren’t prepared

for. We’re also focusing on fundamentals like speaking skills and research.” At the state tournament March 13-14, Bingham’s Emerson Ford took first place in foreign extemp (a speech on an international topic prepared in 30 minutes) and the school took second place overall, losing to Hillcrest High in Midvale by four points. “The second place was bittersweet. The students worked hard, but it wasn’t quite enough. I think it shows that our young team has a lot of potential, but still has room to improve,” Bausch said. However, Bausch said his approach is different than in recent years. “Students have focused more on state, but I want them to learn more about the process and how they are preparing. I want them to be ready to compete at a national level, to go beyond being a big fish in a little pond, but to research and get the best argument to win the debate, not just be familiar with every argument,” Bausch said. Bingham debate is a legacy in the state. For example, in the past 10 years, Bingham has won eight of the 10 state titles and has

Bingham High speech and debate team won regionals March 7, pictured here, and now has a dozen students preparing to compete at the national tournament in June. Photo courtesy of Mike Bausch been runner-up this year and another year. Bingham had several second-place finishers at state including sophomore Dillan Stevens and junior Chandler Ward in policy debate; junior Taylor McKinley in impromptu speaking; and senior Tavish Monroe and senior Jake Russell in public forum debate. Sophomores Tanner Lertsongkham and Nataly Welch won third place at state in policy debate.

Bingham also took first place overall March 7 at the Sundance Region Debate Tournament at Jordan High School and participated at the annual forensics competition on the Berkeley campus of University of California in February. Several Bingham High speech and debaters plan to participate in speech and debate camps in the state and around the country this summer to prepare for next year’s season. l

May 2015 | Page 9

S outh JordanJournal .com

Students From South Hills Middle Take Home Gold From Science Olympiad

SOUTH HILLS MIDDLE SCHOOLS SCIENCE OLYMPIAD STATE RESULTS Air Trajectory / SILVER / Hunter Pitchford & Eric Spencer

By Aimee L. Cook

Anatomy / GOLD / Nancy Wang & Abby West

isease Detectives, Crime Busters, and Green Generation are not the names of TV shows; they are the titles of the science events students from teacher Dawn Monson’s Science Olympiad team presented at a recent state competition at the University of Utah. South Hills Middle school competed against 25 other schools and took home the prestige award of second in the state. “The state competition was amazing,” Monson said. “We ended up taking home many bronze, silver and gold medals. The kids have to work really hard; a lot of this is college level information and is very rigorous. It’s not just the brainiac kids who do this, it’s also the ones who are willing to put in South Hills Middle school Olympiad team poses in front of their school. the time and work hard.” There were 36 students at South Hills Middle school cardiovascular, integumentary (skin layers in and out) and who participated in the Science Olympiad program this year. immune system. Monson and her team of coaches take on That allowed Monson and her fellow coaches to take two this activity to help meet a need for those students who seek it. teams of students to the regional competition, where they then “To many, Science Olympiad sounds like a bunch of narrowed down their one team of 15 to compete at the state nerds getting together to do science,” said Tiffany, a South level. The team that has the most correct answers is awarded Hills Middle School 7th grader. “That is part right. We do the most points in reverse, like the game of golf, the lower work on science. But it’s about learning to work with other the score the higher the placement. Students who worked people. Making friendships that will last. Also we learn cool on the Anatomy event for example, had to demonstrate an things that can help in everyday life and also just fun facts understanding of the basic anatomy and physiology of the to act cool. Science Olympiad rules.” l

Bio Processes / GOLD / Hunter Pitchford & Abby West

8.0 Acres Zoned MU (Mixed Use)

PRIME SOUTH JORDAN LOCATION NEAR CITY COMMERCIAL CENTER & JORDAN RIVER TEMPLE WILL BUILD TO SUIT Contact: k2con@msn.com The Joe Klotovich Property

Can’t Judge a Powder / BRONZE / Abby West & Aaron Pullan Crime Busters / SILVER / Abby West & Aaron Pullan Disease Detectives / BRONZE / Nancy Wang & JJ Stephens Fossils / BRONZE / Paul Taylor & Greg Arveseth Game On / BRONZE / Abby Feragen & Jacie Wright Green Generation / SILVER / Nancy Wang & Jacie Wright Meteorology / GOLD / Hunter Pitchford & Victoria Barlow Road Scholar / GOLD / Eric Spencer & Victoria Barlow Simple Machines / BRONZE / Kai Stephens & JJ Stephens

THE OTHER COACHES ARE: Jason Carwin Luke Talley Kenton Busten Beth Lewis McKenna Jones Krystel Hansen Craig Thompson

Page 10 | May 2015

As Eye See It Information on Vision and Eye Health by Dale F. Hardy, O.D. Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of severe vision loss in people over the age of 50 in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that nearly 2 million people have AMD and another 7 million are at substantial risk for vision loss from AMD. AMD occurs in about 14% of the general population, but is over 50% by age 80. There are two forms of AMD. The most common is the atrophic (dry) form. The other is the exudative (wet) form and is the one that proceeds the most rapidly into severe vision loss. The macula is the area of the eye where fine daylight vision, ability to see fine print and color vision are located. The symptoms include: diminished overall vision; objects appear distorted in shape and straight lines look bent; loss of color vision; and a dark or empty area in the center of vision. In the really early stages, before a person notices changes, a doctor looking into the eye may see changes in the retina in the macula area. Diagnostic tests include visual inspection of the macula, ocular coherence tomography, central visual field testing, and genetic testing. Because of my own personal concerns with a family history of AMD, I have all of these tests available in my office. The only treatment currently available for the dry form of AMD is nutritional. A diet favoring low fat content and dark green leafy vegetable plus specific anti-oxidant vitamin supplements. Genetic testing will tell whether you should have zinc in your supplements or not. Treatment of the wet form may include laser treatments to seal the leaking blood vessels or injections of drugs directly into the back of the eye over the macula. These are not cures and are used to slow the rate of central vision loss. Other things that may help are to avoid smoking, watch your weight, maintain normal blood pressure, and protect your eyes from UV rays by wearing good quality sunglasses. Low vision devices of various kinds can be used to magnify images to maximize remaining vision and to allow a person to function as much as possible. There are other resources, such as talking books, that may be used if the vision loss is substantial.

www.drhardy.com • (801) 253-1374 10372 Redwood Road, South Jordan, UT 84095 paid advertisement

S outh Jordan City Journal

EDUCATION

Bingham High Students Appreciate World Class Art In San Francisco By Julie Slama

ourteen Bingham High art and art history students spent a long weekend appreciating art in several museums and churches in San Francisco. As part of an opportunity given to art and advanced placement art history students, AP art history teacher James Barton leads students through the de Young Museum, Legion of Honor, Asian Art Museum, Glide Memorial Church and Grace Cathedral allowing students to see pieces of art created by the masters. The art tour was over President’s weekend. “It’s a heartening experience to see art students stand in front of a Monet or Renoir and see the great artist’s work and understand the impact this individual has,” Barton said. “As a teacher who is passionate about the subject, it’s fascinating to see them enlightened, ‘ooh and ahh’ the great masters and use the vocabulary they’ve learned when they see the works and gain inspiration from them.” Barton said that this is the fourth annual trip he has taken students to San Francisco. He picked the city since it’s close, easily accessible with public transportation and has world-class collections, such as African, Mayan and Aztec at the de Young Museum and European and American collections at the Legion of Honor. In addition to inspiring students, it also gives them confidence in their AP art history class. “They see what they’ve learned and studied and realize they know it and realize that they actually can pass and do well on the AP test,” he said. Barton hopes that students are appreciating and understanding their world

Bingham High art and art history students visit the Japanese Tea Garden in Golden Gate Park as part of the group’s San Francisco art field trip. Photo courtesy of James Barton around them. “Through the art, I hope it is communicated that they see human experiences in a different light and may never look at the world the same way. Even when they’re older and may enter the business or science world and travel, they will have their understanding as an enriching aspect and the knowledge that art offers,” he said. The students also saw and did many of the typical San Francisco sites, such as going to the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, Coit Tower, Chinatown, Little Italy, Japanese Tea Garden in Golden Gate Park and the Farmer’s

Market as well as riding a trolley and eating Ghiradelli chocolate and ice cream. Since the trip, which cost the students about $500, many of the students shared photos and notes with those who didn’t have the opportunity to go. “The price can’t be beat since the experience is priceless. We packed in as much as we could, often getting back to our motel after 9 or 10 p.m. Many of the students are still so energized about it, they already are planning a return trip with their families this summer or plan to go back with the school next year,” he said. l

Jordan District Educator Awarded Cluff Award By Aimee L. Cook

am Su’a has been a teacher in some fashion for 28 years. After teaching in the classroom for over 10 years, Su’a became a Curriculum Consultant for the Jordan School District for Social Studies and Foreign Language. Su’a was recently awarded the prestigious Cluff Award from BYU for her continued efforts in education excellence. “It was such an honor, especially to receive this award from BYU,” said Su’a. “The education department there is really a very prestigious teacher education program so having been awarded this from them is such an honor to me.” The Cluff Award is named after Benjamin Cluff Jr., the first president of Brigham Young University, and is awarded for Excellence in

Education. The Cluff family donates the funds for the award and presents it to the recipient. Su’a graduated from BYU in 1977. Since becoming a Curriculum Consultant her primary focus is now on researching best practices for teachers, district wide testing, and going into the classroom to work with teachers and assisting them with ideas on teaching certain topics. According to Su’a, social studies is the foundation of everything we do. “Social studies is the way we live our lives, the way we interact with people,” said Su’a. “If we can teach kids how to understand the world, and how to better prepare them to be good citizens, that’s what social studies teachers do.” Former Jordan School District Super-

intendent Barry Newbold credits Su’a with being a well-rounded person who is trustworthy and genuine. “Every school district needs to have someone who is aware of what the standards are, what knowledge base needs to be taught, an individual that is well rounded with a personality that you can trust, that they feel safe with sharing in areas that they do well and areas they need help and Pam is the perfect fit for that,” Newbold said in an interview. Su’a misses being in the classroom everyday but loves her job now, she enjoys the opportunity to help other teachers teach. However, she has not ruled out returning to the classroom someday. l

S outh JordanJournal .com

May 2015 | Page 11

Five South Jordan Educators Named Outstanding By Jordan Education Foundation By Julie Slama

ive South Jordan teachers recently were named as Jordan School District’s Education Foundation outstanding educators. They were surprised with the honor by Superintendent Patrice Johnson, their principals and the Jordan Education Foundation members. “I am just so surprised because I brought the class down here for an internet assembly and here I am being honored,” South Jordan Elementary fifth-grade teacher Sherri Peisley said moments after being congratulated by Principal Ken Westwood, her students and family. “It makes teaching students, helping struggling students — finding one thing that makes a difference, worth it. I’m so grateful.” Peisley, along with Eastlake Elementary’s Elizabeth Pollock, Monte Vista Elementary’s Trisha Jensen, Jordan Ridge Elementary’s Terry Miyasaki, and Bingham High’s Sara Newberry, will be recognized with other Jordan School District teachers at a May 6 banquet where each teacher will be honored by their peers, students, parents and principals. They each will receive a crystal award and $1,000. In addition, Monte Vista’s Donna Willison was named special educator by the Jordan Education Foundation. Karen Thomson, of Jordan Education Foundation, who team-taught with Peisley for two years, told students, “She truly makes a world of difference.” Peisley, who has taught for more than 25 years and has been recognized by the South Jordan Chamber of Commerce as an outstanding teacher, is a member of the school’s Leader in Me Lighthouse Team and is the lead in South Jordan Elementary’s

annual Angel Tree program. Peisley was nominated for her outstanding student growth percentile on end-of-level assessments, which ties into monitoring each student’s progress and helps them to succeed. Parents wrote how she makes curriculum relevant, relates subjects to each other, engages students in class and keeps a positive relationship with her students. “Mrs. Peisley will always be talked about as a favorite teacher in my children’s memories of South Jordan Elementary,” one parent wrote. “She is more than a teacher. She is a listener, a cheerleader, an advocate and a friend.” Eastlake Principal Kyle Hansen said Elizabeth Pollock is South Jordan fifth-grade teacher Sherri Peisley gets hugs from her students after a surprise ceremony by the well loved by students, parents, Jordan Education Foundation naming her as one of the outstanding educators this year. and staff. “She really helps students make real connections with the grade for 23 years, and is the mother of four daughters, all concepts she teaches,” he said of Pollock’s 14 years experience. who are or have been teachers. “Mrs. Miyasaki is very deserving of this award and Jordan Ridge Principal Catherine Anderson said that second-grade teacher Terry Miyasaki, who will retire at the I am so glad that she is getting this recognition before she l end of the school year, has taught kindergarten and second leaves the profession,” Anderson said.

Page 12 | May 2015

S outh Jordan City Journal

CHAMBER CORNER

Peripheral Neuropathy: WAR NING

South Jordan, UT — In our office we have seen far too many patients suffering with the debilitating symptoms of peripheral neuropathy like burning, weakness, pain, numbness, and tingling. We even see individuals whose neuropathy is so far advanced they are at risk of having their feet amputated. Figure 1: Falls affect millions of seniors in the U.S. every year.

However, none of these are the reason neuropathy can be a deadly condition. The biggest risks from peripheral neuropathy are the balance problems and falls that this condition can cause. You see, the nerves in your feet help send signals to your brain to maintain proper balance. When the nerves are damaged by neuropathy it is common to feel like you are off balance, or going to fall. Many of you reading this may have already fallen, and live in fear that your next fall may result in a fracture or concussion. Sadly, over 2.4 million seniors in the U.S. every year visit the emergency room each year due to falls, and nearly 23,000 die. This damage that results in balance problems is commonly caused by a lack of blood flow to the nerves in the hands and feet which causes the nerves to begin to degenerate due to lack of nutrient flow. As you can see in Figure 2, as the blood vessels that surround the nerves become diseased they shrivel up which causes the nerves to not get the nutrients to continue to survive. When these nerves begin to “die” they cause you to have balance problems as well as, pain, numbness, tingling, burning, and many additional symptoms. Figure 2: When these very small blood vessels become diseased they begin to shrivel up and the nerves begin to degenerate.

To make matters worse, too many doctors simply prescribe medications which don’t fix the cause of the problem. Even worse, some of these drugs have side effects that include dizziness and loss of balance! There is now a facility right here in South Jordan that offers you hope without taking those endless drugs with serious side effects. (See the special neuropathy severity examination at the end of this article.) In order to effectively treat your neuropathy three factors must be determined. 1) What is the underlying cause? 2) How Much Nerve Damage Has Been Sustained. NOTE: Once you have sustained 85% nerve loss, there is likely nothing that we can do for you. 3) How much treatment will your condition require? The treatment we use in our office is like watering a plant. This technology will allow the blood vessels to grow back around the periph-

By Shelley Potts, Business Manager The South Jordan Chamber of Commerce welcomed the following new and returning members in the last month: Jenkins-Soffe Funeral Home 1007 W South Jordan Pkwy South Jordan, UT 84095 801-254-1928 Tim Dahle Nissan Southtowne 11155 S Jordan Gateway South Jordan, UT 84095 801-495-3800 The Chamber also held a ribbon cutting for the following business:

the four days of festivities along with drawings and prizes for our guests. We are grateful for the outstanding welcome and support of South Jordan City and its residents to assist us in a seamless transition to our new home in South Jordan.

UPCOMING EVENTS: Ribbon Cutting Sephora – Help celebrate the opening of Sephora inside JC Penney in The District. The ribbon cutting is on May 1, 2015 at 11552 S. District Dr. in South Jordan at 10:00 am.

Tim Dahle Nissan Southtowne 11155 S Jordan Gateway South Jordan, UT 84095 801-495-3800

Figure 3: The blood vessels will grow back around the nerves much like a plant’s roots grow when watered. eral nerves and provide them with the proper nutrients to heal and repair. It’s like adding water to a plant and seeing the roots grow deeper and deeper. The amount of treatment needed to allow the nerves to fully recover varies from person to person and can only be determined after a detailed neurological and vascular evaluation. As long as you have not sustained at least 85% nerve damage there is hope! Dr. M. Shane Watt at NeuroBolic Health Center will do a Neuropathy Severity Examination to determine the extent of the nerve damage for only $57. This neuropathy severity examination will consist of a detailed sensory evaluation, extensive peripheral vascular testing, and a detailed analysis of the findings of your neuropathy. Call 801-495-4444 to determine if your peripheral neuropathy can be treated, pain reduced, and your balance restored. Our Peripheral Neuropathy program is the most comprehensive and state of the art treatment that exists in Utah. Dr. M. Shane Watt Chiropractic Physician

1664 West Town Center Dr., Ste D South Jordan (Next to Cafe Rio)

TIM DAHLE NISSAN SOUTHTOWNE HOSTS GRAND OPENING Tim Dahle Nissan Southtowne hosted its Grand Opening in South Jordan during four days of events with the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on April 16, 2015 pictured above. We were honored to have Mayor Alvord speak as well as corporate officers from Nissan North America. Tim Dahle concluded the ceremony with remarks regarding the amazing journey traveled to reach this point in the organization’s history. During the Grand Opening we were privileged to be the first Nissan dealership to unveil and display the all-new 2016 Nissan Titan Cummins Diesel Truck which has only been featured in car shows across the country. Food trucks, BBQs, a car show and Wayne Hoskins Band performing live were all part of

Lunch & Learn Come hear from Rocky Mountain Power about ways to save money on your utility bill. We will be meeting on May 6, 2015 at University of Utah Health Care, 5126 W. Daybreak Parkway in South Jordan at 11:30 am. The Great Salt Lake Business Conference Southtowne Expo Center on May 13-15, 2015. For more info go to www.slbizconference.com Lunch & Learn We are combining with Southwest Valley Chamber on May 21, 2015 at 11:30 am at Jim’s Family Restaurant, 1728 Park Ave in Riverton. Our speakers will be Marti Lythgoe, Angela Trammell, Laura Klarman. We will be learning about Marketing Basics GUARANTEED to Grow Small Business. l

May 2015 | Page 13

S outh JordanJournal .com

SENIORS South Jordan Senior Center 10778 South Redwood Road 801-302-1222 The center is open 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Transportation is available Monday through Friday for those who live in the area. Transportation is free; call the center for more information. Most activities require you to sign up in advance.

April 30, 10 a.m.; Admission $12 — Red Hat Adventure to the Thanksgiving Point Tulip Festival. Bring money for lunch. Call the center to reserve your spot on the bus. May 1, 4, 6, 11, 13, 15, 11 a.m.; Free. — Poetry Workshop. Come learn the basics of writing a poem. Come to all for a complete experience. During the last class those who would like may share their original pieces.

The Vital Aging Project.

May 25 — Center Closed for Memorial Day

May 20, 12:30 p.m. — Bingo sponsored by Silverado Hospice.

May 27, 11 a.m.; $10. — Pedicures with Dr. Shelton. Appointments needed.

May 22, 11:30 a.m. — Memorial Day Luncheon. Come honor this day of remembrance with special guest speaker Gary Stearman, and enjoy a lovely lunch with old and new friends.

May 27, 12:20 p.m. — Bingo sponsored by Sagewood at Daybreak

May 4, 9 a.m. — Payson Temple Open House Tour May 8, 11 a.m. — Mother’s Day Tea. In honor of all our fabulous mothers, the center would love to serve you some delicious treats with some tea. May 13, 11 a.m. — Support Group for Caregivers with Terra from Silverado Hospice

April 28, May 26, 12:30 p.m. — Sewing Hygiene Kits for “Days for Girls.” Come support this great organization. Taking donations of your time and/or supplies. Come check it out and see the impact. April 29, 12:30 p.m. — Bingo sponsored by Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park

May 13, 12:30 p.m. — Bingo sponsored by Jenkins-Soffe Mortuary. May 14, 11:30 a.m. — Utah Dance Artist will perform for a half an hour before lunch. May 19, 12:30 p.m. — Book Club with Holly. This month’s read: “The Dovekeepers” by Alice Hoffman. May 20, 11 a.m. — “Self-Esteem: How do I View Myself?” Presented by Rhonda from

May 28, 11 a.m.; $18 — Red Hat Adventure to the Salt Lake City Bee’s Baseball game. Cost includes admission and a famous ball park hot dog, chips and your choice of soda. Reservation required by Thursday, May 14 for your spot on the center bus. l

Page 14 | May 2015

S outh Jordan City Journal

WHERE TO GET DISCOUNTED GIFT CARDS By Joani Taylor

Kohl’s has a program called Yes2Rewards where shoppers earn points with each purchase. The points will then automatically convert to Kohl’s gift cards. This great program is in addition to weeks when they have Kohl’s cash, and you don’t need a Kohl’s card to join the program. It’s free to join, and currently new members will receive a $5.00 Kohl’s reward just for signing up. Target offers weekly sales specials where shoppers are rewarded with Target store gift cards for purchasing select products. Plus, if there are coupons for these products, you can use them when making your purchase. These additional savings can often make your products completely free, after considering the gift card. For a current list of which products have gift card promotions, visit www.totallytarget.com/gift-card-deals/.

ast month’s story about playing the gift card game may have seemed a bit silly and extreme, but learning to use gift cards as a means of payment can save you some serious cash, especially on large ticket items or at stores and restaurants you frequent often. As promised, here are some favorite ways to put a simple gift card to work for you. Know your bank or credit card policies. Many banks and credit unions offer bonus offers and rewards on purchases. Often, this means making a gift card purchase can earn you additional bonuses and even gift cards. WHERE TO BUY DISCOUNTED GIFT CARDS: Knowing where to look can be all it takes to save as much as 25% on your gift card purchase. Costco and Sam’s Club both have discounted gift cards that can save you as much as 20% off. Look for them in the store, or you can purchase them online. Also, currently Sam’s Club is offering new members a free $5.00 Sam’s Club gift card and free rotisserie chicken for joining. Ebay.com - Discounted gift cards can be found in the “daily deal” section. These are limited, come and go without warning and sell out fast. They will often save you as much as 25% off. Locate them at http:// deals.ebay.com/shop/gift-cards-deals. CardCash.com – This is a gift card exchange that sells a huge variety of gift cards. You’ll find everything from grocery gift cards to restaurants and department stores. Discounts depend on the gift card and can save

you as much as 15%. Looking to unload a gift card you can’t use? CardCash will purchase your gift cards from you, too. STORES WITH GIFT CARD DEALS: Many stores have rewards programs and bonuses that can get you additional savings on gift cards for their store, and sometimes other stores, too. Smith’s often offers 4X fuel rewards on gift card purchases. The offer is typically valid on any gift card, except for a Smith’s store gift card, and usually has to be loaded digitally onto your Smith’s Shoppers card. Smith’s is also known for offering digital coupons for gift cards. For example, just a couple of weeks ago they had a digital coupon valid for $5.00 off a $20 Payless Shoes gift card.

ow, just imagine: Purchase a Kohl’s gift card at Smith’s during a 4x fuel reward promotion, using your credit card that offers bonus points, then head to Kohl’s to make your purchase. Use the Kohl’s gift card you purchased at Smith’s and get Yes2Rewards Kohl’s credit. That’s what we call a triple dip. And, I haven’t even mentioned Kohl’s Cash or coupons! Other stores that have great rewards programs are: Best Buy, Staples, Office Depot, Famous Footwear, Sears/Kmart, and JCPenney. That’s my frugal wisdom for this month. Next month, I’ll share with you our favorite apps and websites that can bag you completely free gift cards, along with my idea of a fun, and frugal, date night.

FOOT Relax CENTER Math & English After School Program FREE DIAGNOSTIC TEST

50% off 1st month Eye Level Learning Phone: 801-999-0855 Email: sandy@myeyelevel.com 834 East 9400 South, Sandy Ut 84094

5 off free soft drink

$25 purchase or more Monday-Thursday

with purchase of any regular price buffet

Excludes buffet. Expires 5/31/15. Valid at the South Jordan location only.

Not valid with any other offers. Expires 5/31/15. Valid at the South Jordan location only.

PROVO

98 West Center Street 801-373-7200

SOUTH JORDAN

1086 W. South Jordan Pkwy, Suite 111 • 801-302-0777

ORDER ONLINE AT: WWW . INDIAPALACEUTAH . COM

1 HR FOOT MASSAGE O�� $3999 15 minute foot soaking while massaging your head, shoulders & neck. Then a 45 minute foot massage. Not valid with any other offer. Expires 5/31/15

1 HR FULL BODY MASSAGE $ 99

O��

Enjoy a hot stone massage for FREE! Not valid with any other offer. Expires 5/31/15

Open 7 Days A Week: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. 9495 S. 700 E. #2 (Sandy Village) 801-234-0566

haircut 1/2 off

when you mention this ad expires 5/31/15 mon.- sat . 9 am - 6 pm

801-707-9337

4775 West Daybreak Pkwy. Suite #102A • South Jordan, UT

spotlight on: Dave’s Barber Shop

Dave’s Barber Shop

haircut is just a haircut, right? Wrong! At Dave’s Barber Shop, a haircut is ritual, a nostalgic experience harkening back to a simpler day when men gathered at the corner barbershop to discuss everything from business, to sports, to current events. Dave’s Barber Shop, which opened this February in

Daybreak, is focused on giving the male population a quality grooming experience. Dave’s Barber Shop is an authentic, classic, old-fashion barbershop offering mens’ haircut styles, boys’ hair styles, and old-fashioned straight-edge shaves. Dave’s expertise can provide both traditional, short haircuts, as well as contemporary and trendy styles. “What’s trendy right now is the undercut and the razor fade,” explains David Bean, owner and barber at Dave’s Barber Shop. “Barbers are typically the only ones who use a straight razor. Something few people who barber know how to do is blend with a straight razor, but that’s one of my specialties.” Not only can a man get a fantastic haircut and a superb strait edge shave at Dave’s, it’s also a place to get a taste of the past. Barbershops are places of continuity; they don’t change with the shifts in culture. The places and barbers look the same as they did when your dad got his hair cut. It’s a straightforward experience with none of the foo foo accouterments of the modern age. There are no waxings, facials, highlights, or appointments. Just great haircuts and great conversation. “Barbering goes back thousands of years,” Dave ex-

plains. “Most recently it’s a tradition that we are trying to keep alive with the mom and pop shops that give the classic cut, not the quick in-and-out that you get from a big box store. Quality comes first and we are always willing to take care of the customer.” If you don’t know what to get your husband or dad for an anniversary or birthday, treat them with an old-fashioned lather and shave. Call Dave’s Barber Shop at 801-707-9337, or drop by 4775 W. Daybreak Parkway, in South Jordan. l

YaRD CaRE

REaL EStatE

*** WaNtED *** the Yard Marshall, LLC

Tyler Fox—Your Home Professional

—Weekly Lawn Maintenance Call Marshall at

801-864-4384

Also A Licensed Contractor | Buy & Sell With Confidence

(801) 750-2593

baSEMENt FINISHES

HELP WaNtED

tREE SERvICES

t. Fox Construction LLC.

DRiVERS AnD OFFiCE HELP nEEDED!

“Intermountain tree Experts”

Licensed & Ins. 801-280-0291

PERFECT SUMMER JOB! GET PAID DAILY! Make up to $150 PER DAY! Must be energetic, good with people & at least 18. Call: 801-266-1177 or apply in person: 4709 S 200 W., Murray 84107 M-F 10am-1pm.

YaRD CaRE

SPRING CLEaN UP

YaRD CaRE

mr. mow it All will cut your lawn this year. Mow/Edge/Trim weekly service.

Flower beds, Hedges, Tree Trimming, Power Raking, Railroad Ties, Mowing & Hauling.

23 Years Experience: Spring yard clean

• Basement Finishes • Interior Refreshing • Additions • Kitchen & Bath Updating

No Job too big or small

Call/Text gary 801-860-2260

Senior Discounts!

Trimming, removal, stump grinding

Licensed and Insured Call Spencer:

801-244-3542

G.S. LaWNCaRE SERvICE up. Mowing, Trim, Edging, Aeration & Power Raking, Sprinkler Repair. Reasonable prices!

WINDOWS S&S WinDOWS

801.973.1676

$500 OFF

10 WinDOWS OF mORE

attORNEY Family trust agreements Full Estate Planning Package - $900 (Includes all required docs)

C. Michael Lawrence, P.C. attorney at law

801-270-9360

FENCING Cash for old wood fences; top dollar paid call & get a free estimate on what I can pay or receive a free fence removal in exchange for the wood, please no paint grade. Fence repairs, fence demolition, new fence construction, and handyman services call for a

DepenDABLe, call for free estimate

Call Dan: 801-518-7365

801-759-1475 | 801-635-5266

ROOFING OLYmPUS ROOFing

FENCING

PRESCHOOL

YaRD CaRE

Fence and handyman services, repairs and removals. Contact Adam for a FREE estimate! 801-471-9688

JOYFUL HEARTS PRESCHOOL

FULL YaRD CLEaNUP All-In-One Home Maintenance Trim & Prune. Tall weed mowing. Haul trash. Aeration. Power raking. Tilling. Lic & Ins.

Roof Repair

801.887.7663

Serving Wastach Front Since 1973

Located in South Jordan for 10+ years.

Now enrolling for 2015-2016. 3 and 4 year olds. $10 OFF Registration with this ad!

Karen: 801-280-0735

FREE ESTimATE Ask Adam 801-471-9688

Call Dave: 801.455.6705

Just a Mom By Peri Kinder

or years I was just a mom. When people asked what I did for a living, I’d respond, “I’m just a stay-at-home mom.” Ironically, I was never home. I was shuttling kids to and from softball, swimming, dance, school and the mall. I spent approximately 20 years living in my van—and I wasn’t even homeless. Being a full-time mom is exhausting. People who’ve never spent 24 hours with small children Have No Idea how listening to the opening notes of “Sesame Street” for the billionth time can make your ear drums bleed. I’d wake up early to enjoy some alone time and hear the shuffling of pajama-footed feet as a toddler waddled into the kitchen and onto my lap where she rested against my chest, smelling like baby shampoo, warm blankets and dreams. I’d put my nose in her hair, inhale that scent and think: remember this. I’d snuggle with my daughters on the couch with piles of library books. We’d read about hungry caterpillars, wicked witches, Sneetches, wild things and little blue engines. I’d share stories about being kind, wise and brave, and I’d pray those messages would stick. A favorite activity was making cinnamon rolls, letting the girls bake their own sugar-covered creations. They would be coated with flour, butter and cinnamon, and the same ingredients blanketed the floor, but it was okay. It was cleanable. Memories

LOCATING GRAPHIC lasted longer than spilled milk. Depending on the day, my girls were princesses, gypsies, cheerleaders or demons. They’d walk down the sidewalk with pink, plastic high-heeled shoes slapping the soles of their feet, or wear queen costumes while racing on Big Wheels, catching the fabric under the wheels until all their dresses had shredded hems. There were thousands of homework assignments, reading logs and math quizzes, and hundreds of times hearing: “My teacher hates me” or “I don’t get it. Explain it again.” At night, there were bedtime stories, bedtime songs and bedtime prayers: all the rituals kids need to keep their moms around a few more moments, delaying sleep just a little bit longer. But sleep was never a reprieve. I’d often go from comalevel slumber to caffeine-addict wide awake in five seconds

or less, wakened by a cry, and sometimes the undeniably disgusting sound of vomit hitting the sheets or carpet. And the next day I’d do it all again. I was so jealous of my neighbor. She’d go to work each morning dressed in a classy skirt and blazer, looking important and doing important things. She was able to talk to grown-ups all day, and probably didn’t have to tell any co-worker to stop wiping their boogers on the couch. She didn’t go to bed scraping Play-Doh out of her hair. She didn’t watch Cinderella all day or have to be the Ken doll all the time. I schlepped around the house 24/7 in stained yoga paints and T-shirts, listening to poop jokes and kids telling on each other. Because the grass is always greener, maybe she wished she could be a slacker like me, eating cold fish sticks and playing Chutes and Ladders for hours at a time. We were far from rich, but we were also far from poor. It was a time when Band-Aids and kisses healed skinned knees, and chocolate chip cookies and hugs mended broken hearts. And even though it was an emotionally, mentally and physically exhausting time, I’m so grateful for my daughters’ childhoods. I’m so thankful I was able to play and laugh and love. Even though I was just a mom. l

www.SouthJordanJournal.com

TeRRific TueSdAy ScHedule

TOuRS Schedule a tour of the Gale Center of History and Culture, an educational facility where children and adults can explore the past in a hands-on manner.

dOcenTS needed

The Gale Center is looking for Docents for two hours a week. Training and new friends provided. Contact: Candy Ponzurick if interested.

ReSidenT On diSplAy

Resident on Display is a program that spotlights an artist or photographer from South Jordan. We love to show off the amazing talent of the residents of South Jordan!

ART SHOW The 8th Annual Art Show will be held in the Gale Center auditorium from May 25 – June 6, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Please stop in to see South Jordan’s talented artists.

RenTAlS The Gale Center auditorium is a great facility for parties, piano recitals and other gatherings. The room will fit 70 people with chairs only, or eight round tables to seat a maximum of 48. Contact: Candy Ponzurick for rates and availability.

the gale center promotes utah history through exhibits, events and education