December 2021 | Vol. 8 Iss. 12
FREE INTERNATIONAL RARE DISEASE SUPPORT ORGANIZATION HONORS TAYLORSVILLE MOTHER By Carl Fauver | c.fauver@mycityjournals.com
T
he drive from Jamii Stock’s Taylorsville home to Primary Children’s Hospital takes 12 minutes. The fact she knows that number off the top of her head is tragic. Stock, 38, made that drive seven times in less than two years. Each time her youngest daughter, Christa, was with her on the way up. And every time, there was a very real possibility Christa would not be on the ride back. So far, the 4-year-old is a 7–7 round-tripper. Christa suffers from one of more than 7,000 ailments the medical community officially designates a “rare disease.” Since researchers first discovered it in 2006, fewer than 500 people across the globe have been diagnosed with the genetic disorder BPAN (beta-propeller protein assisted neurodegeneration). “In June 2018, when Christa was 18 months old, I was at work and my brother was watching her, when she went into a 20-minute seizure,” Stock said. “After reaching the hospital, she was unconscious for two days, intubated for three and stayed there a full week.” An ambulance rushed Christa to the hospital that first time. Jamii’s seven life-or-death drives to Primary occurred between August 2018 and July 2020. Although it’s been nearly a year-and-a-half since her last emergency, Christa’s next always looms just around the corner. “[Because BPAN is such a rare disorder], we did not have an official diagnosis for nearly two years after that first seizure,” Stock said. “At first, our neurologist thought it might be Continued page 6
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A rare disease has made life a constant challenge for Jamii Stock and her daughter Christa. (Courtesy Jamii Stock)
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Taylorsville High graduate, father of three is newest member of city council By Carl Fauver | c.fauver@mycityjournals.com
Y
ou might think raising three sons all under 10 and working full time as a senior accountant for the University of Utah’s College of Engineering would be enough to keep lifelong Taylorsville resident Bob Knudsen busy. But last month, in the city’s only contested race, Knudsen added city councilman to his list of duties. Although the vote count was not officially completed or “certified” at press time, Knudsen’s vote lead over Larry Johnson was 913 to 824. “Frankly, Taylorsville is not the same place today as it was when I was my boys’ ages,” Knudsen said. “Maybe it is because I am a dad now, but I see more crime than when I was a kid. Our streets are also busier and housing is more difficult to find. I want to do what I can to help our city face its challenges. I want the city to be better, for my sons and everyone else.” Knudsen replaces eight-year incumbent District 5 Councilman Dan Armstrong. “Bob and Larry are both good men and our district was going to be well-served whichever way the election went,” Armstrong said. “I was Bob’s [Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints] bishop and also his Boy Scout leader. I know him well. Bob is a good man. And I’m pleased he’s an accountant like me. He’ll be a good member on the council to help track the city’s finances.” Just a couple of weeks after the election, Bob and Susan Knudsen celebrated their tenth wedding anniversary. Their sons, Paul, Ralph and Will, are ages 9, 6 and 4, respectively. Knudsen graduated from Taylorsville High School in 2003 and enrolled at the University of Utah that fall. However, he wasn’t at the U long before departing on a two-year church mission in Vancouver, British Columbia.
Journals T H E
Bob Knudsen and a little more than 900 other people voted for him last month to place him on the Taylorsville City Council. (Courtesy Bob Knudsen)
After returning, Knudsen earned his mathematics degree at the U of U. “At first, I wanted to be a high school teacher,” Knudsen said. “But when I looked at the salaries and all the regulations for teaching, I decided to look at something else. Eventually I switched to accounting and finance.” Knudsen has never served in an elected position before. But he has been involved with the city. For several years he has helped with the city-sponsored neighborhood watch program. He’s also volunteered during Taylorsville Dayzz. “When I heard Dan [Armstrong] was thinking about not running again, I started attending city council meetings to learn a little more about how the city operates,” Knudsen
said. “I started doing that last February. I still had not completely decided whether to run or not, when Dan approached me and said the [candidate registration] deadline was in one week. That’s when I finally decided to jump into the race.” Of the many volunteer committees that serve Taylorsville City, Knudsen says he’s most inclined to work with the Finance and Public Safety groups. “I was honored to have the opportunity to run for city council alongside Larry Johnson and Paul Schulte [in the primary],” Knudsen said. “I have been amazed to see the wonderful outpouring of support for me. For those who actively participated in the campaign, whether through contributing time or financial resourc-
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es, I could not have done this without your help.” Knudsen promises his constituents he will be accessible and responsive as a city council member. “I want to do everything I can to be open and reachable for those in the city who are looking to know about the workings of the city council,” he said. “When possible, I want to respond to queries within one business day. I want to do everything reasonably within my scope to help ensure we are addressing the needs of our community so we cannot just be a decent place to live, but so we can be one of the best cities in the state.” Knudsen will be sworn into his new post early next month. l
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Just like the city itself, Taylorsville BSA Troop 1996 is marking its 25th year in 2021 By Carl Fauver | c.fauver@mycityjournals.com
B
oy Scout Troop 1996 Scoutmaster Jason McDonald said it’s purely a coincidence the troop he now leads was born at the same time as Taylorsville City itself. It’s not like the new city held a contest to quickly form a BSA troop at the time of their incorporation. City organizers were too busy writing ordinances and rounding up city council and mayoral candidates. But, purely by happenstance, St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church (2700 West Builders Drive, about 5170 South) established the troop, and Cub Scout pack 4996 that same year. That’s why the troop number is 1996, and the Pack number is 4996. Taylorsville City officials have marked their 25th anniversary this year with a couple of big things, including the re-creation of their stand-alone police department. They also recently cut the ribbon on their new $3 million Centennial Plaza, nestled in next to city hall and the new Mid-Valley Performing Arts Center. The Troop and Pack 25th anniversary was a bit more subdued. “We gathered our troop and pack members, and their parents, at Camp Tracy (in Millcreek Canyon) to celebrate the 25th anniversary,” McDonald said. “We had some of the previous leaders share their memories., and we served anniversary cakes for each group. It was a lot of fun.” Of the eight Scoutmasters, Troop 1996 has had over the past quarter-century (including McDonald), half were either at the celebration themselves or sent family representatives to the event. Former Scoutmaster Charlie Campbell recalled a troop camping trip to Yuba Lake and a time when the scouts participated in a “mini-ironman” competition. Robert Pieper is chairman of the adult committee that oversees Troop 1996 activities. “We had about 75 people at the celebration,” Pieper said. “It was a lot of fun to hear some of those old memories.” There seems little doubt the past two years have been the most challenging for the troop and pack, thanks to coronavirus. For starters, since McDonald became Troop 1996 Scoutmaster in June 2020, his Scouts have not been able to attend a single meeting inside St. Matthew’s. “Due to COVID, they have still not reopened the church for our meetings,” McDonald said. “That was not a problem through the summer. We met outside at Valley Regional Park (across 2700 West from the church). I’ve also held a few meetings at my house. It’s not been a big problem. But it will be easier once the church reopens.” McDonald’s troop now has 16 Scouts, who travel in for those weekly meetings
TaylorsvilleJ ournal.com
Clockwise: Taylorsville Boy Scout Troop 1996 and Cub Scout Pack 4996 recently celebrated their 25th anniversary at Camp Tracy in Millcreek Canyon. (Robert Pieper) There was cake for everyone when Taylorsville Boy Scout Troop 1996 and Cub Scout Pack 4996 celebrated their 25th anniversary. (Robert Pieper) Former Cubmaster Tina Ballamis was among the guest speakers when Taylorsville Cub Scout Pack 4996 and Boy Scout Troop 1996 celebrated their 25th anniversary at Camp Tracy in Millcreek Canyon. (Robert Pieper)
from West Valley City, Magna, Murray and West Jordan. Their biggest scouting activity of 2021 came last summer, when they attended a weeklong camp at Bear Lake. Since becoming Scoutmaster, McDonald has not yet presided over an Eagle Court of Honor. But that’s expected to change soon. “We have three boys who are getting very close to finishing up their requirements to become Eagle Scouts,” he said. “One scout, a Cyprus High School senior, recently finished up his Eagle service project. He directed the other scouts in help-
ing him with a food drive for his in-school food pantry.” That Scout, Cayden Anderson, said people were very generous. They were able to gather a lot of food quickly. “We delivered fliers asking for food donations to about 600 homes in two neighborhoods,” Cayden said. “About half the homes gave us donations. We were able to put together about 800 snack packs for the [Cyprus HS] Pirate Pantry.” Cayden’s mother, Julie Anderson, leant a hand by advertising the food drive on social media. She also provided her
Venmo account details, for people wanting to make a cash donation. “Cayden’s food drive received $265 through Venmo,” Julie added. “We used that money to buy additional food.” Anderson hopes to have his Eagle Court of Honor early next year. Meanwhile, McDonald is glad to be at the helm, guiding Troop 1996 into its next 25 years. At the moment, he has one son who’s 4, and two others who are just three months old. So, the troop will have to remain up and running for several more years, just to get them involved. l
December 2021 | Page 5
Continued from front page cerebral palsy. Christa is non-verbal and legally blind. With BPAN, she is only expected to live into her teens or early 20s.” Each of Christa’s eight hospital emergencies were for multiple days. Among her many issues, Jamii says her daughter’s body cannot regulate its temperature, producing spikes up to 105 degrees with no warning. As if caring for Christa was not challenging enough, Stock is also burdened by the knowledge she is the one who passed BPAN to her youngest child. Although the rare disorder has never manifested in Jamii, doctors determined she is the so-called “rare carrier.” Since receiving the BPAN diagnosis in March 2020, Stock has Googled her way to expertise on the subject. During one of those many mouse-and-keyboard deep dives, Jamii discovered the international organization that recently honored her. “I started searching for support groups and came across one specifically for parents of kids with BPAN,” Jamii said. “One of the mothers in that group wanted to send us a gift. She sent sensory toys for Christa and chocolates for all of the kids. She also told me about Angel Aid.” Based in California and established in 2000, Angel Aid has set a goal to connect and educate the parents of 3.5 million kids who suffer with those 7,000 identified rare diseases. According to their website (an-
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gelaidcares.org), “ANGEL” stands for “A Nonprofit Group Enriching Lives.” They’ve also trademarked a couple of terms they frequently use: “Rare Mother™” and “Rare Carrier™.” Most often they are one in the same. Women are more frequently carriers of rare disease genes. And, 82% of the time, mothers are the primary care givers to kids stricken with these maladies. “I contacted Angel Aid and eventually made a donation to them,” Stock said. “Then, last July, they held a virtual event where they announced four ‘Rare Mothers of the Year’ and one ‘Rare Carrier of the Year.’” The online event, Angel Aid WELLfest 2021, included virtual participants from all over the world. WELLfest organizers say all mothers who care for children with rare diseases are worthy of being honored for their tireless work. Therefore, a completely random drawing from among some 14,000 mothers determined the five “winners.” The four Angel Aid 2021 Rare Mothers of the Year are from Argentina, the United Kingdom, Sri Lanka and the United States. The one and only Rare Carrier of the Year turned out to be Jamii. “They told me I will receive a package of gifts worth about $250 and a trip to their next weeklong caregivers’ retreat,” Stock said. “Angel Aid will pay the flight and hotel expenses for two of us to go to Arizona.” Angel Aid WELLfest 2021 can be A quiet moment for Jamii and Christa in their too-often chaotic lives. (Courtesy Jamii Stock) viewed on YouTube (https://youtu.be/X4e-
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Taylorsville City Journal
Taylorsville mother of five Jamii Stock (L) has found emotional support in her new friend Bonnie Mattix, of Sandy. (Courtesy Jamii Stock)
RoTP-4sk). The program runs nearly an hour, with arguably the most poignant moment provided by Jamii Stock herself. Stock participates in online caregiver counseling sessions. In a clip from one of those sessions, shown during WELLfest 2021, Jamii describes a conversation she had with one of her daughters. “Knowing some of my kids may be [rare disease] carriers and have this condition for their kids as well, is really breaking my heart because my sweet little 10-year-old said, ‘I don’t want this to happen to me, so I’m not going to have any kids at all,’” Stock told her fellow counseling session participants. “It’s just that feeling of, what have I done to my family? Knowing she had this dream
Jamii and Christa (center) enjoy a movie with the rest of the family. (Courtesy Jamii Stock)
of being a mother, and she is such a good caregiver to my 4-year-old. She’s so afraid of experiencing that it just breaks my heart.” You can scroll ahead in the YouTube program to 38:55 to view Stock’s comments. Have a tissue standing by. When Jamii makes that prize winning, all-expense-paid trip to the Angel Aid
caregiver retreat in Arizona, a relatively new friend, Bonnie Mattix of Sandy, will join her. “I was introduced to Bonnie in August 2020,” Stock said. “She had just lost her daughter a month earlier to another rare and degenerative disease. She has been such a support to me, and we have become
fast friends. So, Bonnie will make the trip with me next summer.” It will be a somewhat extended separation for Jamii and Christa. But it’s a safe bet Jamii’s parents (who live in Kearns) and her three nearby siblings now all know that 12-minute route to Primary Children’s Hospital. l
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December 2021 | Page 7
Women from five Utah counties turn to Aimee Winder Newton for political insight By Carl Fauver | c.fauver@mycityjournals.com
B
e honest, if you follow politics, particularly at the national level, you’ve had to rely upon Google a couple of times in 2021. We weren’t even a week into the new year, when many of has had to use the search engine, because we weren’t completely sure we understood what “insurrection” means. Skip ahead to this fall, and we were back at our keyboards, to figure out who Brandon is and why big crowds are chanting for him in so many places. Wasn’t that a fun rabbit hole? There’s no question, the wonderful world of politics has gotten much more cutthroat in the 25 years since longtime Taylorsville resident Aimee Winder Newton first waded into the arena. She began in 1996 as the public relations spokesperson for the Taylorsville–Bennion incorporation effort. Fifteen years later, she was named Taylorsville City’s first communication director. And now, for the past eight years, she has represented Taylorsville residents (and others) on the Salt Lake County Council. “You look at the nastiness of politics now and you have to wonder who’s going to jump into that,” Winder Newton said. “It’s not as bad here in Utah as it is on the national level. But even here, I did see more of it
Although it can be a taxing arena, Salt Lake County Councilwoman Aimee Winder Newton (white jacket) is doing all she can to encourage more women to become involved in politics. (Photo courtesy Aimee Winder Newton)
when I was running for governor last year. I know the current climate is stopping some women from entering politics. But they are still needed.”
Winder Newton cites a Harvard study that finds businesses with both men and women around the decision-making table have better outcomes.
“The research shows that is true in business, and I am sure the same is true in government,” she said. That’s one reason why Winder New-
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Page 8 | December 2021
Taylorsville City Journal
ton continues to open her home for periodic, free “Government 101” classes for women. The first, held in the summer of 2017, counted Meredith Harker among its students. Just a few months after that, Harker was elected to the Taylorsville City Council. Four years later, last month, she was unopposed for a second four-year council term. Also last month, Aimee Winder Newton hosted her third class. She said preparing for it was much more difficult than the first two. “When women sign up for the class, I ask which city they live in so I can customize the information and discuss the form of government they have where they live,” she said. “That wasn’t too tough for the first two classes, because all of the students were Salt Lake County residents. But this time, the class of 24 attendees came from five different counties: Salt Lake, Davis, Utah, Weber and even Carbon County.” Wellington resident Kathy Hascall, 67, won the award for “furthest traveled” class attendee. She said Winder Newton’s nearly three-hour class was well worth the two-hour drive, each way, from her Carbon County home, near Price. “Aimee opens her home for the class, and is just amazing,” Hascall said. “It was really refreshing. Aimee wants to get people involved because she wants a better life for the people around her. I was inspired.”
So much so, Hascall said, that the mother of five and grandmother to 12 has now enrolled in college courses to better prepare her for a future political campaign. “I may run for a Wellington City position or the Carbon County Commission or, who knows, maybe the state legislature,” she said. “If we want things to change, we have to be a part of the change. I feel a sense of urgency to do what I can. I’m not sure what race I will enter. But I know I want to do my part to make a difference.” That can-do spirit is music to Winder Newton’s ears. She only wishes more women felt like Hascall. “I think men are more willing to jump into things, even if they don’t have all the answers,” Winder Newton said. “When I first ran for county council, I didn’t really know all the things the county does. My first few years I was drinking from a fire hose. But you engage; you learn. That’s what I want more women to do. We need them.” As for Aimee Winder Newton, she’s not sure what her political future holds. Salt Lake County’s first female Republican on the council will close her second, full four-year term a year from now. Are you ready to officially announce your reelection candidacy? “Not yet, but ask me in a month,” she said. What about another run for governor?
Having spent years working in government, Salt Lake County Councilwoman Aimee Winder Newton (white jacket) is continuing to show other women the ropes through the free Government 101 class she offers periodically in her home. (Photo courtesy Aimee Winder Newton)
“I’m not thinking about that now, she said. “But I have not ruled it out.” As for the next “Government 101”
class, Winder Newton asks women to keep an eye on her Facebook page: @AWinderNewton. l
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Defending region champs hit the court By Greg James | g.james@mycityjournals.com
K
earns High School’s boys basketball team lost one of its best players to injury before the season even began. But despite the bad news, it hopes to contend for another region title. “I feel pretty good about us as the season begins,” Cougars boys basketball coach Dan Cosby said. Senior Jonny Gasologa came up injured in October and will have to sit out his senior season. “It will hurt us on the boards; he was probably our best shooter and defender,” Cosby said. “We still have everyone coming back and are defending region champions. We have some high expectations. We will need to make some adjustments. We will be small and quick.” Senior Gott Daw played well last season, especially heading into region games. He suffered a shoulder injury and missed the final six games of the season. He averaged 11.5 points per game, and Cosby hopes he can return to his pre-injury form. “[Daw] is about 75% right now,” Cosby said. “We look forward to seeing him back playing hard for us.” Javon Lee was first team All-Region last season. He hit 41% of his field goal attempts and averaged 10.1 points per game. “[Lee] should shoot the ball well,” Cosby said. “Ryker [Osborne] and Amare [Ames] will help us to stretch the floor. Ryker has yet to play in a varsity game, so we will need to get him some experience.” The Cougars are defending Region 2 champions. They finished last season with a 16-9 overall record and lost to Roy in the state tournament quarterfinals 60-59. Roy
joins the Cougars this season in Region 2. Last season, the Cougars beat Hunter and Granger four times and split its contests with Cyprus. They also split games against Taylorsville. “Roy is new to our region,” Cosby said. “Taylorsville and Cyprus will be the big two we have to face. Roy knocked us out on a last-second shot last year. We have some revenge on our mind for that game. Roy was a big team. It will matter what they have come back for this year.” Cosby said the team will concentrate early on this year on defense. It devotes 65 percent of its practice time to it. It will continue with a fast-paced, in-your-face style. “We really like to press and set the pace a little bit,” Cosby said. “We really want to get up and down the floor.” Kearns has won two games in the state tournament in the last six years. This is a streak they would like to break. “These are really good kids,” Cosby said. “Right now, the team has a 3.4 grade point average. I don’t think we have much to worry about. We will be senior-heavy, with eight seniors on this year’s team. We need their experience. We played a lot of close games last season. I think they will be a fun team to watch this year.” Kearns is scheduled to begin its season Nov 23 against Bear River (after our press deadline). The Cougars will also host Tooele (Dec. 1) and Weber (Dec. 3). They will also participate in the Riverton Holiday tournament over the Christmas break. Their opening region contest is scheduled for Jan. 4 against Hunter. l
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Ajal Juang was one of four seniors on last year’s Region 2 champions. (Photo courtesy of Kearns Historian.)
Taylorsville City Journal
New incentive program aims to attract GSD subs By Bill Hardesty | b.hardesty@mycityjournals.com
G
ranite School District (GSD) announced an incentive program to attract and keep substitute teachers in late October. “We are always exploring options to ensure we deliver on what students and staff need,” Richard Nye, district superintendent, said. “I implore anyone who has even considered the job of a substitute teacher to take a look at all Granite has to offer.” The program The program will pay a bonus to substitute teachers as they hit milestones: hourly subs who complete at least five jobs in one month will be given a $50 bonus on top of regular pay; hourly subs who complete at least 10 jobs in one month will be given a $100 bonus on top of regular pay; and hourly subs who complete at least 15 jobs or more in one month will be given a $150 bonus on top of regular pay. The first payout was Nov. 1 based on substitute teachers’ October jobs. The program is ongoing through the remaining school year. For example, a substitute teacher who works 15 jobs every month will get a $150 bonus each month. GSD decided to install the bonus program rather than raise base pay. “We have a set budget and don’t have the ability to increase wages long term. We do have lots of one-time money that can help address this problem short term,” Ben Horsley, chief of staff, said.
Granite School District implements a bonus incentive program for substitute teachers. (Photo from Pixabay)
The situation Horsley describes the situation as “very serious.” “While we have a larger amount of substitutes in our pool and are filling more positions than ever on a daily basis, the demand and need for personal and sick leave has gone up by over 50% even over last year,” Horsley said. On average, GSD uses 300-350 substitutes each day. When a substitute teacher can’t be found, some district-level employees can step in. In other cases, the school’s administration steps in. A final choice is to pay regular teaches a stipend who step in during their prep period.
Granite School District implements a bonus incentive program for substitute teachers. (Photo from Pixabay)
The pay A substitute teacher’s pay is based on the education obtained and the length of the assignment. For a person with a high school diploma, the hourly pay is $14.14 ($98.98 per seven hour day). For persons with an associate degree or two years of college, the rate moves to $14.67 ($102.69/day). For a licensed teacher or holder of a master’s degree, the rate raises $15.52 ($108.64). A
retired teacher is paid $18.29 ($128.03). If the assignment is 40 to 89 days, the rate is $20.93 ($146.51). If the job is 90 or more days, the rate tops out at $26.86 ($188.02). Substitute pay scales differ between school districts. “We find that most of our subs are also in other local district sub-pools, so they will pick and choose opportunities based on the distance to travel and grade level of
TaylorsvilleJ ournal.com
the sub-job offered,” Horsley said. The opportunity According to the GSD website: “Substitute teachers are an integral part of the educational process in Granite School District. They have the opportunity to support the student educational experience. Principals, district administrators, and classroom teachers greatly appreciate the valuable work substitute teachers provide.” Horsley described the ideal candidate
as “someone looking for a flexible job, that enjoys being around kids. You get to pick where and when you want to pick up a shift/job and can filter for certain grade levels or locations to meet your needs.” He added, “This is more than just a job but an opportunity to serve your community and support our children in their education.” To apply, call the Human Resources Department at 385-646-4511. l
December 2021 | Page 11
The Stars are back at Bruin Arena By Greg James | g.james@mycityjournals.com
T
he Salt Lake City Stars are back playing basketball at Bruin Arena. It has been a long time. “The game and experience is definitely family friendly,” Stars basketball Communications Manager Derek Ahrnsbrak said. “We have some up-and-coming players on the team this year, including Thurl Bailey’s and Dwayne Wade’s sons, Brendan Bailey and Zaire Wade.” The home opener (Nov. 17 after press deadline) will mark the first time the Stars have played in Salt Lake City since March 6, 2020. They play their home games in Bruin Arena on the campus of the Salt Lake Community College. The Stars began this season by dropping their first three games, all on the road. They hope playing in a friendly environment will change their results. “We have former NBA players on the roster and two current Jazz players, as well as players that spent time in Jazz camp this fall,” Ahrnsbrak said. Derrick Alston Jr. is one of the affiliate Jazz players on the Stars roster. (NBA teams can assign up to four players to their G League team.) His basketball career has come full circle. He began as a ball boy for the Houston Rockets. He spent his time
Page 12 | December 2021
Carsen Edwards (No. 9) of the Salt Lake City Stars has spent time in the NBA with the Boston Celtics. (Photo courtesy of the Salt Lake City Stars.)
grabbing rebounds for the players during warmups. Now he plays the game profes-
sionally. He was not highly recruited after high
school, but with the help of a junior college coach he convinced Boise St to give him a
Taylorsville City Journal
shot. He averaged 14.2 points per game as a Bronco. He went undrafted out of college but joined the Golden State Warriors G League team and eventually earned a tryout with the Jazz. His story is typical of what types of players spend time in the G League. Generally, it is filled with up-and-coming athletes trying to earn a shot and some players trying to hang on to their careers. Carson Edwards, a 5-foot-11-inch guard joins the Stars this season. He was the 33rd pick in the 2019 draft by the Boston Celtics. He played in 68 games over two seasons for the Celtics. Brendan Bailey and Zaire Wade have garnered the most attention this fall as members of the Stars. They have both come off the bench and averaged seven and five points, respectively, in the first few games of the season. “We have some great talent on the team,” Ahrnsbrak said. “Our head coach is a first-class guy. This is officially his second season with the team.” Head coach Nathan Peavy is starting his
second season in the first chair for the team. He coached last year with the Stars in the G League’s abbreviated season in Orlando. Because of the pandemic, the league played its entire schedule in a one-location bubble. He has been an assistant coach with the team for five years. “[Peavy] is really a great guy and very down to earth,” Ahrnsbrak said. “All of the staff with the Stars are great people. I encourage everyone to come check it out.” Ticket prices for the Stars range from $10 to $35 and can be purchased on the Stars’ website. The G League functions as a headway league for potential NBA positions such as players, officials and front-office staff. The league began as the Developmental League in 2001, and in 2005 they gained a title sponsor, Gatorade, and changed the name to the G League. “This is an opportunity to see the Jazz future players and players from around the league,” Ahrnsbrak said. “The Stars of today can be the Jazz of tomorrow.” l
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Macio Teague (No. 31) of the Salt Lake City Stars drives to the basket against the Oklahoma City Blue during an NBA G League game on Nov. 5. (Photo courtesy of the Salt Lake City Stars.)
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December 2021 | Page 13
Big eSports online tournament held for local students By Greg James | g.james@mycityjournals.com
T
he idea of gamers living in their parents’ basement and never seeing the light of day is no more. In the fall festival held in November, 695 Utah high school and middle school students gathered online in a friendly eSports competition. “The ability of eSports to be online at any time makes it possible for us to hold a large tournament,” co-owner and operator of The League Esports Danny Jacobson said. “We both got into eSports years ago for a local company, LDS Gamers,” co-owner and operator of TLE Shawn Fisher said. “We decided to open our community and host games. We were contacted by some high school organizations, and through networking it has become a nation and worldwide opportunity.” The Fall Festival, sponsored by Ken Garff eSports, was the largest school event held in the state, as 221 middle school and high school teams gathered online Nov. 11–12. In the 5A and 6A division, 24 schools were represented. Teams played Smash Bros Ultimate and Rocket League. Each game can be played as teams and supports quick timed battles. RL (Rocket League) was played in teams of three. It is a vehicular-style soccer game. Both games are popular games with youth competitors and could be adapted to a large online gathering. “My teacher brought it up in a class, and Rocket League is a game I like to play, so I signed up,” a middle school student that goes by the user name “Elimantor” said. “I like competing against my friends.” “A tournament this large had never been held in Utah,” Jacobson said. “Some schools had multiple teams, some schools had as many as 30 kids. The goal would be to hold it as an in-person event eventually, but lots of logistics would need to be figured out. Rocket League and Smash Bros are two of the most popular, and they are good family-friendly games.”
League of Legends is also a popular game that will be introduced into a big tournament, but the speed of games in Rocket League and SuperSmash fit better into the large tournament. “The goal of this particular event was not to see who the very best was,” Jacobson said. “We wanted the most participation and the opportunity to get kids to play with others from all over the place.” Ken Garff eSports, iTeamUSA and Code to Success has pinpointed that gaming can develop potential workplace applicants. Jobs including coding and cyber security have many silicon slopes companies seeing the opportunity to find possible future employees. “This is a great gateway to introduce these jobs by finding kids that like to play video games,” Jacobson said. “Kids can go on to college and pay for it through games,” Fisher said. “We also have high school quarterbacks, soccer stars and even band kids that like to play games when they get home. It is not an absolute that if you play games you live in your mom’s basement. Some of us are older, and we own our basements.” The online community has helped many students with mental health conditions. “Just like anything, there are negative things if you look for them,” Jacobson said. “The community involvement can help with kids that can be introverted. Gaming is a big sense of community. That is a reason we started TLE was to make a safe place to play and make new friends—some of my best friends I have never met.” Like a local recreation center, TLE holds gathering points for gamers to gather and play competitive video games. “As we started ‘adulting,’ we wanted a place where we could play our games, just like rec leagues play basketball or softball,” Jacobson said. “Gamers can play competitively in college and earn scholarships or job offers. That is how we got started.” l
Rocket League is one of the most popular eSports games, West Jordan and Mountain Ridge high schools played an online match. (Photo courtesy of TLE)
Page 14 | December 2021
Taylorsville City Journal
City of Taylorsville Newsletter 2600 West Taylorsville Boulevard • 801-963-5400
MAYOR'S MESSAGE
www.taylorsvilleut.gov
December 2021 Taylorsville is Ready for the Holidays
Dear Friends and Neighbors, The holiday season is always a good time to reflect on the past year while looking forward in hope to the year to come. Year 2021 brought so much to our Taylorsville community. We’ve celebrated many accomplishments this past year, and we continue to work with vision in five key areas, includMayor Kristie S. Overson ing Economic Development, Transportation, Public Safety, Arts, Parks & Recreation and Community Building. We believe by concentrating on these areas, both with our attention and resources, we can continue to expand on all of the city’s successes in making our city even stronger. Efforts include bringing new business and housing to the city, and plans for prime development locations, transportation and land use. This work has involved building new business across the city, as well as developing opportunities and projects on the horizon. Some of the projects in each of these five key areas over the past year include: Economic Development. Ribbon Cuttings have celebrated the openings of new small businesses every month. Plans also were approved to replace the old Kmart property with a beautiful new mixed-use development called West Point. We renewed our Shop Local program for a second year, and Google Fiber came to Taylorsville! Transportation. Crews are nearing completion on the freeway-style interchange at 6200 South and Bangerter that will vastly improve commute times. Also coming soon is the Mid-Valley Connector Bus Rapid Transit line, and we’ve begun work on our Taylorsville Active Communities Plan to better incorporate bicycles and pedestrians into transportation and recreational planning. Public Safety. Our Taylorsville City Police Department launched on July 1 after a year of planning and transition. I couldn’t be more pleased with our new department and the yeoman’s work that went into its start-up. Arts, Parks & Recreation. The Mid-Valley Performing Arts Center opened May 26, Centennial Plaza opened Oct. 15 and we’ve launched our Plaza +ART program. Volunteers also have been doing a lot of heavy lifting on our Loving Labrum Park improvements. Community Building. The city celebrated its 25th Birthday this year with a Birthday Bash to remember for Taylorsville Dayzz, and the Arts Council put on a Silver Jubilee Art Show. Our annual Collection Day, sponsored by the Green Committee, was more successful than ever and we enjoyed many other community events. Thank you for all your support. It’s been an incredible year. I love our Taylorsville home and extend to you every wish for a very Merry Christmas, happy holidays and a joyous 2022! –Mayor Kristie S. Overson
WHAT’S INSIDE – DECEMBER 2021 Frequently Called Numbers, Page 2 Council Corner, Page 3 Getting to Know TVPD, Page 4 Business, Page 6 Environment, Page 8
Taylorsville City Hall is decked out in lights. Thousands of green, white and red lights were strung just before Thanksgiving to get City Hall ready for the December holidays. It took a couple of days for workers to string the lights, including the large Christmas trees out front, snowflakes on light poles and strings of lights along the roofline. Also new this year are the lights throughout Centennial Plaza, including on the concession building and stage areas. “We wanted to bring a bit of festiveness to City Hall and Centennial Plaza,” said Mayor Kristie Overson. “We hope it is a wonderful holiday season for all.” Preparations also have been made inside of City Hall, 2600 W. Taylorsville Blvd. Most notable, look for a large gift-wrapped open box in the lobby where members of the Taylorsville Youth Council are collecting donations for the homeless. As a service project for the holidays, the youth are accepting shirts, pants, socks, coats, gloves, hats and other warm clothing (used or new). Donations may also be dropped off at the Saturday with Santa event on Dec. 4, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Taylorsville-Bennion Heritage Center, 1488 W. 4800 South. “We want to thank the Youth Council for organizing and holding a service project every holiday season,” Mayor Overson said, “and we are so grateful to everyone for their generosity. It means so much to our community and can make a real difference for individuals, particularly at this time of year. Merry Christmas, everyone!”
PAGE 2
City of Taylorsville Newsletter
| www.taylorsvilleut.gov
Police Department
We Can All Help with Snow Removal 801-840-4000
With winter now here, snow removal is an important part of keeping our city going and everyone safe. We can all help out and do our part. Snow removal is also outlined in the city’s ordinances. They include: 14.32.100: SNOW REMOVAL; REQUIRED: It is unlawful for the owner, occupant, lessor or agent of property abutting on a paved sidewalk to fail to remove or cause to be removed from such paved sidewalk and any existing curb ramp all hail, snow or sleet falling thereon, within twenty four (24) hours after the hail, snow or sleet has ceased falling.
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800 -323 -5517
Taylorsville Code Enforcement
14.32.110: SNOW REMOVAL; CLOGGING GUTTER PROHIBITED: It is unlawful for any person removing snow from a sidewalk or curb ramp to deposit snow, dirt or other material in a gutter so as to clog the same, or prevent the free flow of water therein. 14.20.105: PLACING SNOW UPON HIGHWAY PROHIBITED: It is unlawful for any person removing snow, ice or other material from a sidewalk or driveway to place or deposit said snow, ice or other material upon any city road or highway in such a manner as to interfere with the proper use of the same or so as to obstruct travel or to endanger property or persons upon the same. 11.20.080: PARKING PROHIBITED WHEN: It is unlawful for any person who owns or has possession, custody or control of any vehicle or trailer to park or knowingly allow to be parked any vehicle or trailer on any street or highway: A. After any snow and/or ice accumulation, until after the street or highway is cleared of snow and/or ice. Thank you for keeping these codes in mind and stay safe this winter!
EVENTS DECEMBER 2021 Dec. 1 & 15 – 6:30 p.m. City Council Meeting @ City Hall and online. Watch a live-stream of the meeting on the city’s website, www.taylorsvilleut.gov
Dec. 2, 3 & 4 – 7:30 p.m.(Preshow at 7 p.m.) Winter Wonderettes @ Mid-Valley Performing Arts Center. (See Page 7)
Dec. 4 – 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday with Santa @ Taylorsville-Bennion Heritage Center. (See Page 4)
Through Dec. 9 Youth Council’s Holiday Giving Drive for the homeless. Drop off new or gently used clothing, coats and winterwear at City Hall or the Saturday with Santa event.
Dec. 14 – 7 p.m.
Why I Usher Join our cast of ushers and
Find out your
“Why”
Planning Commission Meeting @ City Hall.
Dec. 24 – All Day Christmas Eve. City Hall is closed or Christmas.
Dec. 25 – All Day Christmas Day. We wish you a very happy holiday!
Dec. 31 – All Day New Year’s Eve. City Hall is closed for the New Year’s holiday.
Jan. 1 – All Day New Year’s Day. Happy 2022! Find our calendar of events every month on the city’s website, where you can also submit your own events for possible publication. Go to www.taylorsvilleut.gov
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December 2021
COUNCIL CORNER
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As My Time on the Council Comes to an End, I am Grateful
By Council Member Dan Armstrong Serving on the City Council for the past eight years has been an absolute pleasure. While there have been highs and lows, joys and stress, enjoyable moments and a few thankless ones, I’ve loved every minute. I have so many reasons to be proud as I now leave the Council. After two terms, I decided not to seek reelection this year to devote more time to family, my wife Lorene and a new business as an Amazon distributor started in retirement. I’m not certain what the future will hold but decided it’s time to slow down a bit (I’m also winding down my CPA firm). Who knows, a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints may be in our future. Over these past few months, it’s been nice to think about both the future and past. I still vividly remember my decision to seek elected office almost a decade ago. My good friend Larry Johnson told me he was going to run for Mayor, and he encouraged me to run for his District 5 Council seat. I did, and we both won our races. We celebrated victories on Election Night 2013. With me leaving this year, Larry sought the District 5 seat again. Lifelong resident Bob Knudsen also ran for the position and was elected. I commend both Larry and Bob for their decision to enter the ring, and I extend my sincere congratulations to Bob on his victory. I know he will do a great job representing District 5 and I want to help in any way that I can.
There is none better than Team Taylorsville, and I am so glad that I got to be a part of it. During the past eight years, I count the completion of the MidValley Performing Arts Center among our biggest accomplishments. I am also very proud of our new Taylorsville City Police Department that started operations on July 1 of this year. I’ve decided that being a firefighter or police officer is for people younger than me, and not for the faint of heart. I have the utmost respect for those who are putting everything on the line to maintain safety and order. I’ve done things I never believed I’d do like driving a float in a parade, being in a parade, driving the ‘tiller’ end of a firetruck, going on patrol with our police, standing toe-to-toe with state senators and representatives — trying to get them to understand, standing shoulderto-shoulder with those same individuals rallying for fair representation. I’ve been in the governor’s office, the county mayor’s office and in several of our surrounding sister city offices as we’ve worked together to solve pressing issues. What I’ve found is they are all great people, each desiring the best for our community. I have also enjoyed bringing my accounting skills to the table as we’ve worked to balance budgets, and I am pleased that during my eight years on the Council we never even had a vote to raise property taxes. We have seen a lot of new business come to Taylorsville in the time I’ve been on the Council, and we look forward to
Mid-Valley Performing Arts Center Receives Outstanding Project Honors Utah Construction & Design magazine has named the Mid-Valley Performing Arts Center as one of this year's Most Outstanding Projects. A panel of five industry professionals handed out awards to 38 projects from almost 90 submissions, including the Ken Garff Red Zone at Rice-Eccles Stadium, which earned the coveted Project of the Year award. The Mid-Valley Performing Arts Center was
recognized as 2021’s Most Outstanding Community/ Cultural Project. Winning firms were Method Studio, which designed the Arts Center, and Jacobsen Construction, which built it. A recap of each of the award-winning projects can be found in the December issue of the magazine, shared on its social media sites and website, utahcdmag.com “We love having this beautiful facility right next door to City Hall,” said Mayor Kristie Overson. “It is beyond what we could have ever dreamt it to be. The award is highly deserved.” The Arts Center opened in May and has been hosting a variety of performances since then in both its 400-seat proscenium theater and 200-seat Studio 5400 theater. The facility is managed by Salt Lake County’s Arts & Culture Division, with ticketing through ArtTix. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit saltlakecountyarts.org
LEFT TO RIGHT: Dan Armstrong (District 5), Curt Cochran, Chair (District 2), Meredith Harker (District 4), Anna Barbieri, Vice Chair (District 3), and Ernest Burgess (District 1)
the new West Point development that will replace the former Kmart property. Also coming to Taylorsville is Bus Rapid Transit, park improvements across the city and other developments, including an LDS temple at 2603 W. 4700 South. I’ve worked with some amazing people, both elected officials and Taylorsville City employees, all of whom I will miss at our regular monthly meetings and in friendly banter. Perhaps I could have done more. But most of the things I wanted to do, we got done, and for that I am most grateful.
Letterto the Editor
Recently, my wife and I decided to have breakfast at Penny Ann's Cafe. Two TVPD officers were already in the restaurant, and we were placed in a booth next to them. For the most part, I was in earshot of them. I was struck by their conversation, as they were extremely positive about their jobs. I don't like to eavesdrop, but I was so struck with their attitudes and how they interacted with fellow customers and staff at the restaurant. I thought to myself: It would be an honor to pick up their breakfast tab, but alas, they were already leaving before I had the opportunity to do that. We had zero interaction with them. We were only about halfway through our breakfast as they left. We finished dining and asked the waitress for take-out boxes and our check. The waitress mentioned as she cleared the table that we had no check; the officers paid for our meal! I asked the waitress if she was joking? She was not. We left dumbfounded and in ah. Never has this happened to us before. We were thankful for the gesture and will make an effort to pay it forward someday soon. Thank you TVPD officers, whoever you are. I am reminded, police officers are human too; a lot of people forget that. — Mark Webb
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City of Taylorsville Newsletter
| www.taylorsvilleut.gov
Happy Holidays from TVPD and Some Crime Prevention Tips Get to know the new TVPD. Check this space each month for articles highlighting the units and employees that make up the Taylorsville City Police Department. From all of us at the Taylorsville Police Department, we wish you a happy holiday season. For several years our local fifth-grade students have helped TVPD by designing and hand drawing a holiday card. We are so grateful for all the students that participated and submitted drawings. We had around 200 submissions. It will be tough to decide which will be used as our official TVPD holiday card. Follow us on social media at @TVPDutah on Facebook and Instagram to see their creativity. We’ll post pictures of their artwork in the coming weeks. This month, we also want to encourage everyone to be vigilant in helping to prevent property crimes. In November’s column, we highlighted a small portion of our Taylorsville property crimes unit. We encourage everyone to be vigilant in helping to prevent property crimes. While taking preventative measures is no guarantee, they both lessen your chances of becoming a victim and increase the chances of the suspect
being caught. We encourage all to research preventative measures. Some helpful web resources include: • idtheft.utah.gov • ic3.gov • Consumer.ftc.gov • Ncpc.org/resources/home-neighborhood-safety
TVPD Employee of the Month Please join us in congratulating Det. Corey Lavin as our TVPD Employee of the Month. Det. Lavin is part of TVPD’s Street Crimes Unit and has over 11 years of experience in law enforcement. He has worked with the Utah Department of Corrections, West Jordan and Unified Police departments, and was hired with Taylorsville PD upon its formation. He has worked in patrol, street crimes, and was a member of UPD’s SWAT team. Det. Lavin has received several awards including a sheriff ’s star, distinguished unit awards, officer of the month on multiple occasions, and has won several awards related to his excellent tactical and firearms-handling abilities. While conducting proactive enforcement, Det. Lavin observed a suspicious person within Taylorsville. Through a series of observations, he developed cause to conduct a traffic stop. A loaded handgun was located on the person stopped. The person was a restricted person who was not allowed to posses a firearm. As Det. Lavin continued his investigation, it was found the person had no legitimate reason to be in the area. It was suspected the suspect was stalking another individual in the area. The suspect has since been federally indicted. We are proud to have Det. Lavin as well as all members of our TVPD Street Crimes Unit as part of Team Taylorsville!
Police Chief, Mayor Encourage Schoolchildren to Avoid Drugs, Alcohol TVPD Chief Brady Cottam and Mayor Kristie Overson paid a recent visit to Calvin Smith Elementary School, where they spoke with thirdgrade classes for Red Ribbon Week. "They spoke about being good citizens, saying no to harmful substances and making good choices," said City Councilwoman Meredith Harker, who is a teacher at the school. “We are so grateful
for all that the chief and Police Department do for us and our city.” Red Ribbon Week encourages students to remain drug-free. It was started in 1985 and is aimed at mobilizing communities in educating youth about the dangers of drugs and alcohol. The campaign is observed annually in October.
Saturday With Santa December 4, 2021; 2:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Taylorsville-Bennion Heritage Museum 1488 West 4800 South 14 th
December 2021
2600 West Taylorsville Boulevard • 801-963-5400 |
Meet the K9s: New Police Dogs are Ready to Work The new K9 Unit of the Taylorsville City Police Department was introduced at a recent City Council meeting — including dogs Koda, Turbo and Cowboy. Their handlers are Sgt. Jacob Palmer, whose K9 is 2-yearold German Shephard Koda; Officer CJ Moore who handles 14-month-old Belgian Malinois Turbo and Officer Hayden Hoffman, whose K9 is 18-month-old German Shephard Cowboy. “The K9 Unit will be an essential part of our force,” said Mayor Kristie Overson. “We welcome our K9s and handlers, and we are just delighted to make your acquaintance.” Mayor Overson and the City Council cautiously greeted the K9s, who were brought into Council Chambers at their Nov. 3 meeting. All of the dogs were, of course, on their best behavior. Each has a specific job to do. Koda will work as a patrol/narcotics K9. His handler, Sgt. Palmer, has 15 years of experience in law enforcement, including 10 years of K9 work. He is a certified dual-purpose patrol/narcotics handler and instructor with Utah POST (Peace Officer Standards and Training). He has worked as a K9 sergeant and supervisor for the past two years. Officer Moore has 15 years’ experience in law enforcement and is certified as a dual-purpose patrol/narcotics handler. He is also an instructor at POST, and his dog Turbo will work in patrol/narcotics, as well. Officer Hoffman has 6.5 years in law enforcement, including four years in K9. He is certified as a narcotics handler through POST and is working on becoming a patrol handler. His K9, Cowboy, will also work patrol and narcotics. The K9 Unit is tasked with supporting TVPD patrol officers, detectives, special units and other agencies. “The work of our K9 Unit is invaluable,” said Chief Brady Cottam. “We greatly appreciate all they do.”
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| www.taylorsvilleut.gov
City of Taylorsville Newsletter
The Lost Arts are Found at South Pacific Island Art South Pacific Island Art has opened in Taylorsville, bringing a unique Polynesian experience captured in the art, history, traditions and culture of the islands. The store is located at 5612 S. Redwood Road in The Crossroads of Taylorsville shopping center and recently celebrated its opening on Nov. 8. Joining in the grand opening celebration, city leaders, ChamberWest and Taylorsville’s Youth Ambassadors marveled at the beautiful art displayed throughout the store. At South Pacific Island Art, customers can see the ancient lost arts of the Polynesian people and glimpse a piece of history every time they come in. The hand-carvings are intricate and stunning, and each carries symbolism and meaning that transcend cultural ties.
ucational tours, live demonstrations of the carvings, and musical and dance performances. Fresh leis, retail items and baked specialties such as custom cakes, cupcakes and handcrafted chocolate sculptures are also available. South Pacific Island Art is open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
“South Pacific Island Art will bring a deeper understanding of the Polynesians who for centuries have kept their traditions alive on the islands,” said South Pacific Island Art owner Iuni Tuaimei’uta. Her husband is Master Carver Sailosi Tuaimei’uta, who meticulously hand carved all of the pieces from natural woods from the islands, fossilized whale bones and cow femur bones. “The display is simply amazing,” said Mayor Kristie Overson. “I feel like I am in a museum. The art is exquisite and there is so much history that can be learned here.” Iuni Tuaimei'uta said the store aims to “bring a deeper understanding of the culture, people and their heritage, who for centuries have kept their traditions alive on the Polynesian Islands. All can share messages of happiness, friendship, unity, love, strength, protection and new beginnings.” In addition to the artwork that can be purchased at the store or online, South Pacific Island Art provides ed-
Trolley Wing Co. Now Dishing Award-Winning Wings in Taylorsville Voted best wings in Utah for the past five years, you can now get Trolley Wing Co.’s delectable twice-baked wings at their new Taylorsville location, 5418 S. 1900 West. The restaurant celebrated with a Ribbon Cutting on Oct. 12, along with city officials and representatives of ChamberWest. From Cajun honey BBQ to raspberry chipotle, traditional or buffalo, Trolley Wing Co. has been serving premium chicken wings in the Salt Lake Valley for the past 20 years. They also serve vegan and vegetarian wings, as
well as sandwiches and salads. Trolley Wing Co. first opened at Trolley Square, in an actual trolley car, and now has locations in Sugar House, Midvale and Taylorsville. The Taylorsville location includes both a restaurant and bar. “We are so thrilled to welcome Trolley Wing Co. to Taylorsville,” said Mayor Kristie Overson. “What a great place to hang out, watch a game or spend time with friends — and their wings are absolutely delicious.” Jesse Wilkerson, who owns Trolley Wing Co. with Jeff Krie, said they have worked to perfect their wing recipe, and Utahns have taken notice, giving Trolley Wing Co. top marks in City Weekly’s Best of Utah survey each year for five years running. Wilkerson has been working as a contractor for the past 22 years in Utah, so built the Trolley Wing Co. in Taylorsville himself with his company. He said the process was remarkably easy. “I’ve never been more impressed,” he said at the Ribbon Cutting. “I owe all of you a big thank you.” Manager Juli Gerritsen agreed, noting how welcome they have felt. The restaurant, which features artwork by local artists on its walls, experienced only one small hang-up in putting the restaurant together. Due to de-
layed cargo ships, they didn’t have enough bar stools to open but Wilkerson put out a plea to fellow eateries and they came through in spades, many bringing over extra stools and chairs for him to borrow. Trolley Wing Co. in Taylorsville is open every day from 11 a.m. to midnight.
December 2021 Taylorsville Bennion Heritage
2600 West Taylorsville Boulevard • 801-963-5400 |
Don’t Miss These Library Events
REMEMBRANCES
The Taylorsville Library has planned several programs during the month of December. You’ll want to mark your calendar for these events:
This month’s historic feature article highlights several of the many carpenters’ woodworking tools at the Taylorsville-Bennion Heritage Museum. These tools originally belonged to Archibald Frame Jr. and were used to build the Jones home and other homes on 4800 South, as well as the Salt Lake Temple. The tools and chest were donated by his grandson, Donald Frame. Come see the various tools at the museum, 1488 W. 4800 South. Among them are:
Interactive Nutcracker Adventure Wednesday, Dec. 1-Saturday, Dec. 4, all day Traverse the lands of snow and sweets, solving puzzles as you go. Drop in anytime, from Dec. 1 to 4.
• Hand Planes: A hand plane is a tool used for shaping wood. They are used to flatten, reduce the thickness of, and create a smooth surface on a rough piece of lumber. Special types of planes are designed to cut joints or decorative moldings. The bottom of the plane is called the sole. The cutter or blade extends below the sole and slices off the shavings of wood. After several passes, the surface is flat and smooth • Level: A device used to measure true horizontal. • Caliper: These are used to measure the distance between two opposite sides of an object. Inside and outside calipers are used differently: Inside measures the internal size of an object, and outside measures the external size of an object. • Adze: This tool is used for smoothing roughcut wood in hand woodworking. A carpenter’s adze is a heavy tool with very steep curves and a very heavy, blunt pole. • Brace: This is a type of hand-held drill fitted with a metal bit that does the actual drilling. Winter hours for the museum are Wednesday evenings, 6 to 8 p.m. and Saturdays, 2 to 5 p.m. See you soon!
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Virtual Adult Lecture | Agatha Christie, Queen of the Golden Age of Crime Fiction Monday, Dec. 6, 7 p.m. Dr. Michelle Kazmer will share photos and stories from her experiences and knowledge gained over the past decade of academic research on Agatha Christie and the Golden Age of crime fiction. You must register for this event to receive the link to the WebEx virtual lecture. Go to: thecountylibrary.org/LectureSeries Library Closures The library will close early, or be closed on the following days: Friday, Dec. 24, close at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 25, closed all day Saturday, Jan. 1, closed all day
The Taylorsville Arts Council Presents
December 2nd, 3rd & 4th, 7:30 p.m. Mid-Valley Performing Arts Center 2525 W. Taylorsville Blvd.
Pre-Show at 7 p.m. by Granger High School Madrigals
Tickets are $10
Written & created by Roger Bean. Vocal arrangements by Roger Bean & Brian Baker. Musical arrangements by Brian Baker.
December 2021 | Page 21
ANNUAL COLLECTION DAY PAGE 8
| www.taylorsvilleut.gov
City of Taylorsville Newsletter Tis the Season to Prepare Your Home for Winter
DECEMBER UPDATES Green Waste Collection The last pickup date for Green Waste Collection in 2021 for Taylorsville will be Thursday, Dec. 9. We remind residents to not place the green cans out on the curb after that date. They will not be picked up nor emptied. Collections for green waste will resume Thursday, March 17, 2022.
Area Cleanup Evaluation Results
Cold and freezing weather is upon us and your plumbing may not like it. Pipes can freeze and burst, causing some of the most expensive repairs in a home. So let's go over some of the basics to make sure you have them covered: Insulate Exposed Piping. If you have any exposed water or drain piping in uninsulated spaces such as in a crawlspace, attic, outside walls, etc., make sure to insulate them. Ideally, you should wrap them with electrical heating tape first and then insulate them. Exterior Faucets. Also commonly known as hose bibs, exterior faucets should be checked for leakage. Remember to disconnect your garden hoses from the outside faucets and drain the hose to prevent damage.
The 2021 Area Cleanup Program completed on Sept. 30. This year’s program was again impacted by staffing issues, but the revised program – in which residents reserved a container placed on their driveway – helped maintain this program’s services to the communities. WFWRD staff is currently evaluating this year’s performance to determine ways to make the program more convenient and effective for residents next year. Municipality Districtwide Taylorsville
# of # of households containers delivered 86,052 11,262 13,753 1,928
# of tons # of collected mattresses collected 8,721.54 1,196 1,525.01 239
# of tires # of collected refrigerators collected 190 94 92 33
WFWRD 2022 Budget Overview WFWRD will not be implementing a fee increase for base services in 2022. Factors, including better recycling markets, have allowed WFWRD to absorb this year’s cost increases. However, there are some proposed changes that will be implemented in the 2022 budget: • Increase the fee for new cans from $50 to $60 while discontinuing the $10 stand-alone delivery fee. • Increase the New Home Startup Fees to $130 to cover the costs for two new can purchases (garbage/recycling) ($60 per can + $10 delivery = $130). • Discontinue the Damaged Can Fee of $70 for customer-caused damage of a can and combine all replacement can fees at $70 (excepting normal wear-and-tear). • Increase the fees for a refurbished can from $20 to $35. • Add a fee of $120 for a 14-yard roll-off container, requested by municipalities for cleanup events, which shall include the delivery of the container and up to two tons of disposal per container. Additional per ton fees will apply for amounts exceeding two tons as represented on the Fee Schedule.
Reminder: If your property is going to be unoccupied for several months, consider shutting off the water supply valve inside the home. If a leak were to occur without occupancy, the damage could be catastrophic and very expensive. Also, TBID will be holding a public hearing on its budget on Wednesday, Dec. 15, at 3 p.m. at the district office. If you have any questions, please contact Taylorsville-Bennion Improvement District by calling 801-968-9081 or visiting www.tbid.org. Follow TBID on Facebook and Twitter.
R E C Y C L I N G
The full Budget Proposal and 2022 Fee Schedule can be found on WFWRD’s website at: wasatchfrontwaste.org/rates-fees
New Glass Container Site
Page 22 | December 2021
Taylorsville has a new glass container site, located at the DABC at 4455 S. 2700 West, on the west end of the parking lot. All residents are welcome to use this container for glass recycling. For more information on WFWRD’s glass recycling programs, visit wasatchfrontwaste.org/glass.
Taylorsville City Journal
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Will Robinson, a Mormon frontiersman, is tasked with the responsibility of rescuing certain individuals and families from attacks and kidnappings by mobs and other villains. After her storm-battered ship filled with LDS converts from England arrives in New Orleans, Will falls in love with one of its passengers-Rachel Ramsey, the beautiful, talented singer/actress daughter of an English lord. Ultimately, Rachel must choose between someone of her own nobility class and the tall, ruggedly handsome Will Robinson.
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The book’s main characters interact with historical persons including Joseph Smith, Brigham Young, Orrin Porter Rockwell, Sam Brannon, and Lyman Wight. Other main characters include: Lord Ramsey, the Duke of Cornwall, the Duke of Devonshire, the Duke of Kent, a ruthless London prison warden, a cruel workhouse supervisor, “the Beast,” El Capitán, and arch villain, Victor Von Villerbrun. Incidents include: a mountain-man rendezvous, the martyrdom of Joseph and Hyrum Smith. The expulsion of the Saints from Missouri and Illinois. The treks of the Mormon pioneers across the plains to sanctuary in the Rocky Mountains. The march of the Mormon Battalion from Kansas to California, the longest march in U.S. military history.
TaylorsvilleJ ournal.com
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www. LarkinCares .com December 2021 | Page 23
GSD combined choir sings at Veterans Day concert By Bill Hardesty | b.hardesty@mycityjournals.com
T
he 66th annual Veterans Day concert was held virtually again this year because of COVID-19. The video was released on Nov. 11. The concert is online at: Ut.ng.mil; www.facebook.com/utahnationalguard; and www.youtube.com/user/ UtahNationalGuard. The concert was titled “Never Forget.” In addition to honoring veterans, the concert commemorated the 20th anniversary of 9/11. The concert featured the 23rd Army Band and Granite School District High School Choirs. The combined choir consisted of more than 500 students from all seven senior high schools. “Granite School District vocal directors have a longstanding commitment to honoring Utah’s veterans. Veterans Day is a great opportunity to provide the ‘why’ for students who are developing their performance skills. Students feel honored to practice and refine the pieces to a level of quality that properly shows appreciation to the veterans and their families,” Noelle Converse, director of curriculum and instruction, said. “This annual event raises the bar for vocal performance across the district. It is also a great opportunity for our choir directors to showcase the quality of their music programs and student performers.” Senior Master Sgt. (Retired) U.S. Air Force Sterling Poulson hosted the concert. The performances were at Olympus High School. Music The band and choir performed separately. There were traditional songs such as “America” (Choir), “The Stars and Stripes Forever” (Band), the “Armed Forces Medley” (Band), and the national anthem (Band). There were also new and unique numbers. The 23rd Army Band played “As All of the Heaven Were a Bell,” which was written to honor the NY firefighters for their efforts on Sept. 11. The title comes from a poem by Emily Dickinson titled, “I Felt a Funeral, in my Brain.” The band also played “Forge in Fire.” “This song was inspired by the transforming nature of fire,” Poulson said. “The men and women of our armed forces are forged into sharp swords through heat, fire and the strike of the human spirit.” The combined choir also sang “Oh America.” A song popularized by the Celtic Woman musical ensemble. The combined men’s choir sang, “Stouthearted Men.” The combined women’s choir sang “Wherever You Are.” The Military Wives Choir originally sang this song in 2020 as a love song. The combined choir also debuted an
Page 24 | December 2021
Students from the Granite School District combined choir sing at the 66th annual Veterans Day Concert. (Courtesy of Granite School District)
original piece by Cecil Sullivan, choir director of Cottonwood HS. His work is titled “For the Warriors.” The rock band “Article 15” sang “Mr. Red, White and Blue” by Coffey Anderson. A song telling of the courage and sacrifices of our armed forces. “Taps” was also played to honor all those who paid the ultimate sacrifice. Speakers Brig. Gen. Charlene Dalto, Land Component Command Utah Army National Guard, was the keynote speaker. “On Veterans Day, it is important that we take a moment and reflect on the patri-
otism, service, and sacrifice of all veterans, past and present,” Dalto said. Dalto also mentioned that less than 1% of Americans have served in the armed forces. The Utah PTA has partnered with the Honorary Colonels Corps and the Utah Army National Guard to sponsor an essay contest for nine years. The contest is open to all Utah students K-12 who have a parent, grandparent, brother or sister who serves now or has served in the military. This year’s theme was “Why Am I Proud of My Veteran.” Kinley Gorringe, a fourth grader from Lehi, won the elementary school divi-
sion and was awarded a $100 scholarship award. Jaeli Adams, a ninth grader from St. George, won the junior high division and was also awarded $100. McKenna Dillingham, a senior from Bountiful, won the high school division and was awarded a $300 scholarship award. “As governor, I am beyond proud of the Utah veterans who have served heroically in all of America’s conflicts,” Gov. Spencer Cox said in a video presentation. The Zions Bank Veterans Service award was given to Robert Pagnani. The award is given to individuals who have improved the quality of life for military personnel and veterans. l
Taylorsville City Journal
Officials researching potential petting zoo at Veterans Memorial Park By Travis Barton | travis.b@thecityjournals.com
A
petting zoo could potentially set up its hay barrels at Veterans Memorial Park in West Jordan. After a majority of the West Jordan City Council signaled interest, city staff were directed to research a petting zoo’s feasibility. The idea, initially brought forward in August and revisited in October, comes from Councilman David Pack, who suggested a discussion about changing city code to allow farm animals for a petting zoo at the city’s primary park. Pack pointed out during an October work meeting that The Farm at Gardner Village is moving, and would like to keep the amenity in the city. “This is a good draw for our city and community,” he said. “And I’d hate to lose this 501(c)(3) animal rescue. It seems like this blends well with the historical nature of West Jordan.” Pack added the city could use more amenities, and having this farm located near the West Jordan Historical Museum (located just off 7800 South on the north side of the park) could be “a destination draw” that could “revitalize this area to safeguard our history.” “It’s recreational, it’s educational, it’s history,” Pack said. “It’d be a good draw for families in our city, and also out of our city, to come learn more about West Jordan. Hopefully that in turn breeds more growth. Seems like a win-win.” Councilmembers were interested and liked the idea, but the —along with city staff— had questions about liability, protection for the animals, costs, who is responsible for those costs, odors and proximity to major roadways among other things. Assistant City Attorney Duncan Murray said because it’s public property, it brings multiple issues into effect. “There’s a lot more issues at play here than even the ones brought up tonight that we’d have to analyze first for you as a council to make a fully informed decision,” Murray said. City officials also noted the corner of the
park in question sees many Pokemon Go players congregate, making it one of the highest visited areas of the park. The Farm at Gardner Village’s owner, Russ Murdock (but commonly known as Farmer Gil), assured city officials there is federal grant funding available for facilities and would have security on site 24/7 and fencing around the property. Many of their animals are rescued, and Murdock wants to keep them from falling into bad situations, he said. Murdock explained their rent doubled last year and are looking for more space. “West Jordan’s been good to us; we’d like to stay here and be part of this community,” Murdock said. Museum officials said the area to the east of their building is utilized for pumpkin walks in the fall and during baseball season, parking becomes an issue. For Councilman Kelvin Green, who likes the petting-zoo idea, the issue helps address a wider problem he would like to see fixed: the city’s facility use policy. Green said they have events going on city property such as parks and parking lots regularly that aren’t addressed in the city’s policies. “I’m suggesting the facility use piece of this is actually a bigger issue we need to address holistically, not just for a potential petting zoo,” he said. Councilman Chris McConnehey said he initially felt a petting zoo didn’t fit but noted side attractions in other cities around the country he’s seen and feels it could work. He also has reserverations but wanted staff to research further. “We need to be very careful and very thoughtful about what we’re doing and the way we do it,” he said. But Pack expressed concern about the process, wanting to respect zoning and ordinances but worried how long it could take. “If we follow our normal protocol, it’ll be a year or two until we make a decision,” Pack said, later adding, “Whenever we talk about something it takes forever. I’m trying to expedite the process, not circumvent necessary protocol, but I’d like to see some sort of streamline
and get things done. I don’t think Farmer Gil has a year for us to deliberate.” Pack wanted to direct staff to start facilitating it happen, rather simply a study. McConnehey said he needed his questions resolved to be supportive. “Without answers to those questions, I don’t feel like I’m doing my responsibility as a councilmember with responsibility for the tax funds we’ve received from the residents, potentially expending those or potentially putting them at risk without knowing the answer to some of those questions,” he
said.
McConnehey also voiced concern about “crafting policy for a specific person” noting city officials would still need to follow a request-for-proposal (RFP) process. He also suggested Murdock may want to retire at some point so future considerations need to be examined. “We need to make sure this is not done on a spur of the moment,” he said. “That doesn’t have long-term implications well-considered. Because once something goes in, it’s not going to change.” l
Goats are among the animals at The Farm at Gardner Village, which intends to move from its current location. (Photo courtesy Pixabay)
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December 2021 | Page 25
A place of remembrance opens to honor Utah veterans By Darrell Kirby | d.kirby@mycityjournals.com
J
oe Day ran his right hand along several names imprinted on the Memorial Wall of the new Utah Veterans Memorial in West Valley City on a cool, cloudy Veterans Day in November. An Army veteran from 1990 to 2013 during which he trained Afghan troops from 2006-07, he stood in silence as he looked at the names of some comrades he served with in Afghanistan, including some who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to America. “It’s wonderful to see them memorialized like this,” Day said. “It brings back a flood of memories, and I’m just proud that they sacrificed and served the way that they did.” A ceremony was held on Nov. 11 to officially open the Utah Veterans Memorial. What was three acres of vacant land south of the Utah Cultural Celebration just six months ago is now a monument of remembrance for about 2,900 Utahns who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces in military conflicts from World War I to the Global War on Terror that started in the 1990s. Highlighted by the 75-foot-long, 8-foot high Memorial Wall, the plaza is surrounded by U.S flags and those of each branch of the military. Twenty-nine benches representing each of Utah’s counties are placed around the site to allow for visitors to take the time to re-
The Memorial Wall contains the names of 2,900 Utahns killed while serving in the United States Armed Forces. (Darrell Kirby/City Journals)
member the service of the men and women who went to war and never made it back or those who returned with physical and mental scars. The idea of a Utah Veterans Memorial was largely spearheaded by West Valley City Mayor and Air Force veteran Ron Bigelow. He gauged the interest of several cities in Salt Lake
County before it was determined that West Valley City was the best place for it. Addressing a crowd of veterans, state and local government officials, and U.S. Reps. Burgess Owens and Chris Stewart of Utah, Bigelow said that while other Utah cities and towns have places to recognize veterans and war dead from those local communities, the new memorial in West
Valley City has a broader focus. “We wanted to (honor) all of the veterans from the state of Utah who had lost their lives in combat.” Bigelow praised the fundraising efforts that resulted in the $1.3 million in mainly private and business donations to finish the first part of what is planned to be a three-phased project over the next few years as additional
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money is raised. “We’re going to move from this to building a pavilion for groups to gather, we’re going to put monuments up for different conflicts, and eventually we’ll have a building where veterans can congregate, where we can have occasional exhibits to remember the role that those who preserve our freedoms have played in our country.” Rich Beaudoin of West Valley City joined with dozens of other people in strolling the grounds of the plaza and looking at the long list of names on the memorial wall. He served 26 years in the Navy. “I think this is an awesome tribute. I hope a lot of people can come and see this.” When asked what feelings came to mind as he scanned the names, Beaudoin choked back tears. “Sacrifice of the families,” he replied. “Each one of these names impacts the timeline of the world. Maybe they could have been the father of a couple of doctors who cured something.” Day said visiting the memorial wall was worth it. “It’s going to mean the world to a lot of veterans and to a lot of families that can come here and remember their loved ones.” “We hope it will be a place of contemplation to help us never forget the debt we owe to them (veterans) for preserving our freedoms and the very lives we live today,” Bigelow concluded. The memorial was designed by EDA Architects and built by Okland Construction of Salt Lake City. l
Army veteran Joe Day pauses at the Utah Veterans Memorial Wall to remember comrades who died while serving in America’s military conflicts. (Darrell Kirby/City Journals)
As Utah’s Unemployment Rate Hits Record Low, Lack of Labor Lingers 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
TaylorsvilleJ ournal.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
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December 2021 | Page 27
Karen Lang says experience will serve her well as West Valley’s new mayor By Darrell Kirby | d.kirby@mycityjournals.com
W
est Valley City has the first female mayor in its 41-year history. City councilwoman Karen Lang was elected in November to lead the city she has called home for 37 years. She defeated fellow city council member Steve Buhler with 58.5% of the vote to become the ninth mayor of Utah’s second most-populous city. She will succeed Ron Bigelow, who did not seek a third term. “It’s sort of weird, but it’s going to be fun,” Lang said of the somewhat surreal feeling of winning the mayorship. Lang believes her city council experience serving District 3 in the northwestern/ north-central part of the city since 2012 will help her represent the entire city of 140,000 people. “I think having that 10 years behind me is going to make it a lot easier and more impactful.” She lost a previous bid for mayor to incumbent Bigelow in 2017. Lang plans to meet with the city council to exchange ideas on the future course of the city. “I have some ideas myself of what direction we want to move,” she said, citing continued expansion of the city’s economic development efforts as one such initiative. Prior to the primary election in August, Lang laid out other goals if elected mayor. “Key issues I would address as mayor are
a responsible budget, managed land use, public safety, maintenance of city roads and city properties,” Lang said. “We have little land available for development. We need to plan carefully for the best use of vacant land and be mindful to plan for redevelopment of older properties.” The new mayor and her husband, Brian, are longtime owners of Oakbridge Greenhouse. “Luckily for me, I’ve got a great spouse and great help at the greenhouse that will free me up (to tend to her mayoral duties),” Lang said. “I have some good support around me that will enable me to do my job very easily.” In January, the mayor’s office in four of Utah’s six largest cities will be occupied by women: Salt Lake City (Erin Mendenhall, elected in 2019), West Valley City, Provo (Michelle Kaufusi, elected last month to a second term), and Sandy (Monica Zoltanski, elected in November as the first female mayor after serving on the city council). “Boots to the ground and get working,” Lang said, looking toward her swearing in Jan. 4, 2022. On that date, Buhler will end three terms as the District 2 councilmember, opting to run for mayor rather than seek reelection to the city council. l
Karen Lang will become West Valley City mayor Jan. 4, 2022. (Darrell Kirby/City Journals)
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Taylorsville City Journal
Salt Lake County giving residents opportunity test out lifeguarding By Travis Barton | travis.b@thecityjournals.com
S
alt Lake County Parks and Recreation is hosting a “Just-Try-It: 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 responsibilities 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
Salt Lake County Parks and Recreation is hosting a “Just-Try-It: Lifeguarding” for those ages 14 and up. (File photo courtesy Kearns Oquirrh Park Fitness Center)
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-to-fill 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
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TaylorsvilleJ ournal.com advertorial_102021_final.indd 1
December 2021 | Page 29 10/20/2021 12:18:52 PM
Former NBA coach hosts basketball camp By Catherine Garrett | c.garrett@mycityjournals.com
U
tah native Barry Hecker, who coached in the NBA for more than two decades, continues to teach the game of basketball to young players. During the winter holidays, he will host a camp Dec. 27-29 from 9-11 a.m. at the Sandy Recreation Center, located at 440 E. 8680 South for boys and girls in grades fourth through seventh. “These camps are all about the basic fundamentals of basketball,” Hecker said. “We focus on quality fundamental instruction, we work hard with a lot of discipline and structure and we have a lot of fun. When these kids walk out of there, they know they’ve been taught and improved.” The cost of the camp is $75. Registrations are open online by visiting www.sandy. utah.gov/registration and clicking on “Activity Registration.” The veteran coach, who lives in Murray, said the values he has learned from his basketball coaching journey—beginning at Oxon Hill High School in Maryland and spanning through Salt Lake Community College and stints with the NBA’s Cleveland Cavaliers, Los Angeles Clippers and Memphis Grizzlies—are invaluable. Being able to share those principles of hard work, teamwork, unselfishness and persistence, along with the physical skills of the game itself,
Former NBA coach Barry Hecker has been hosting basketball camps for more than 40 years. (Catherine Garrett/City Journals)
with others thrills him. “I don’t care who I coach or when I coach,” Hecker, who has worked with current Jazz players Mike Conley and Rudy Gay, said. “I simply enjoy teaching the game. It’s great to see a smile on someone’s face as they experience success. If you help
somebody, you’ll be somebody.” Hecker has conducted clinics all over the world for more than 40 years, including many since his retirement from coaching in the NBA. He said he particularly enjoys working with the youth. “If you teach skills, that leads to con-
fidence and that confidence can allow anyone to do anything they want,” he said. “I have more fun with young kids than with the pros. In the NBA, you have guys who are making millions and they don’t listen. These kids are making nothing and they’ll listen to you.” l
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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
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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December 2021 | Vol. 8 Iss. 12
FREE INTERNATIONAL RARE DISEASE SUPPORT ORGANIZATION HONORS TAYLORSVILLE MOTHER By Carl Fauver | c.fauver@mycityjournals.com
T
he drive from Jamii Stock’s Taylorsville home to Primary Children’s Hospital takes 12 minutes. The fact she knows that number off the top of her head is tragic. Stock, 38, made that drive seven times in less than two years. Each time her youngest daughter, Christa, was with her on the way up. And every time, there was a very real possibility Christa would not be on the ride back. So far, the 4-year-old is a 7–7 round-tripper. Christa suffers from one of more than 7,000 ailments the medical community officially designates a “rare disease.” Since researchers first discovered it in 2006, fewer than 500 people across the globe have been diagnosed with the genetic disorder BPAN (beta-propeller protein assisted neurodegeneration). “In June 2018, when Christa was 18 months old, I was at work and my brother was watching her, when she went into a 20-minute seizure,” Stock said. “After reaching the hospital, she was unconscious for two days, intubated for three and stayed there a full week.” An ambulance rushed Christa to the hospital that first time. Jamii’s seven life-or-death drives to Primary occurred between August 2018 and July 2020. Although it’s been nearly a year-and-a-half since her last emergency, Christa’s next always looms just around the corner. “[Because BPAN is such a rare disorder], we did not have an official diagnosis for nearly two years after that first seizure,” Stock said. “At first, our neurologist thought it might be Continued page 6
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A rare disease has made life a constant challenge for Jamii Stock and her daughter Christa. (Courtesy Jamii Stock)
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