September 2020 | Vol. 7 Iss. 09
FREE CORONAVIRUS THE LATEST MEDICAL CHALLENGE FOR A TAYLORSVILLE RESIDENT WITH LIVES LIKE A CAT By Carl Fauver | c.fauver@mycityjournals.com
M
arlene and Brad Woolley were married 42 years ago and have lived in two Taylorsville homes for 40 of those years. Marlene said her 42nd anniversary, last June 15, was not one of their better ones. “Many people go on a cruise for their 42nd anniversary, but my husband was on a ventilator,” she said. “That was just about the time a doctor was telling me we should probably start planning Brad’s funeral.” However, shortly after that mid-June marital milestone, things finally took a turn for the better with Brad’s coronavirus case. Following a couple of weeks of physical therapy, he was finally released from Murray’s Intermountain Medical Center on July 8. “I am still on oxygen and could be for the next six to nine months,” Brad said. “But I am gradually weaning off of it. I’ve cut my oxygen use in half since leaving the hospital. I am weaker now [from coronavirus] than I ever was following my heart transplant.” Brad’s nearly two-month hospital stay for COVID-19 was not his first extended stint there. In fact, his convoluted and often harrowing medical journey actually goes back some 20 years. “When I took a routine physical exam for a new job in 2000, they discovered a heart murmur I had been aware of before had gotten worse,” Brad said. “That led to open heart surgery.” The surgery helped for a time, but in November 2008, he Taylorsville residents Brad and Marlene Woolley have enjoyed 42 years of marriage, although the last two have been quite challenging. (Michael suffered a massive heart attack. Continued page 4 Woolley)
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Continued from front page “It was the type they call a ‘widow maker,’” Brad said. “They had to put in three stints. I was very lucky to survive it.” Unfortunately, doctors warned him his heart would continue to deteriorate and work at only a fraction of normal efficiency. After another decade—and another round of open-heart surgery—it finally became inevitable that he would need a new donor heart. Brad was admitted back into the hospital last September, with his name on a list to receive a heart. The family had no way of knowing whether he would survive long enough to get to the top of that list. “My O+ blood type is the most common which creates a high demand for donated organs,” Brad said. “When I went into the hospital a year ago, I had no way of knowing whether I would survive long enough to receive a donated heart.” Luckily, he did. And the Woolleys are forever grateful to those people who commit themselves to be organ donors. “I cried when I was told there was a heart for me; I could not believe it,” Brad said. “I thought I would be waiting for months, if I survived that long. It was an incredible surprise. I just can’t express enough gratitude to the donor family.” Marlene shared in her husband’s amazement and gratitude. “Oh my gosh, it was an absolute transformative moment when we learned a heart had become available,” she said. “There are very few things someone can do to provide a living legacy. But being
an organ donor is one of those. Donors can save six or more people through their generosity. We are incredibly grateful.” Marlene also pointed out that organ donors must do more than just check a box on their driver’s license renewal form. She said it is critical people talk to their families about their decision, so in their time of grief they know what course of action to take. Brad underwent his heart transplant surgery last Oct. r 28. However, due to complications, it took more than double the normal amount of time for such a procedure. Marlene sat in the waiting room, receiving almost no updates, for 16 hours. Brad would remain hospitalized for more than a month after the surgery before finally being released to go home just two weeks before last Christmas. “I calculated it myself, based on billing statements I had received, and I figured the cost for my heart transplant and all the care that came before and after, was in excess of $8 million,” Woolley said. “I am on Social Security disability coverage, so we have only had to cover co-payments.” Because his new heart was still not functioning completely properly, Brad spent the next several months going nowhere but to physical therapy and doctor appointments. In essence, he began self-isolating and social distancing for three months before the rest of us started to follow suit in mid-March, with the arrival of the coronavirus. Unfortunately, despite all that distancing, somewhere on one
Journals
of his few treks away from home, Brad contracted COVID-19. That led to his most recent nearly two-month stay at the hospital, before his July 8 release. “I was weaker when I came home [from the coronavirus hospitalization] than I ever was following my heart transplant,” Brad said. “I think I received the best possible care. My nursing staff was wonderful and so overworked and busy. Coronavirus is a terrible, horrible disease. I don’t understand how anyone can think they are special and they will not get it.” Throughout her husband’s ordeal, Marlene tested negative for the virus three Between open-heart surgery, heart transplant surgery and coronavirus, Brad Woolley has spent a lot of time different times. in the hospital over the past several years. (Michael Woolley) “I did not think I could lowing herself to feel glimmers of credibly hard and has made such survive anything more challenging than Brad’s heart optimism. She believes the parents great improvement. But there is transplant, but that was a walk in of three sons, and grandparents to still so much we don’t know about the park compared to COVID-19,” four children, may finally be turn- COVID-19. We are not out of the woods. But compared to where we she said. “It was so difficult be- ing the corner. “I feel we can now be hope- were, it feels much more hopeful.” cause we were separated and out of ful; I am cautiously optimistic,” l contact.” But Marlene is now finally al- she said. “Brad is working in-
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Eddy Alvarez won a silver medal in the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics after training at the Olympic Oval in Kearns, but he recently realized his dream of becoming a major league baseball player. (Photo courtesy of US Speed Skating/Jerry Search)
Former speed skater switches to Major League Baseball By Greg James | g.james@mycityjournals.com
H
e was first a speed skater and Olympian, and now he is a Major League Baseball player. Former Salt Lake Community College shortstop and U.S. speed skater Eddy Alvarez made his big-league debut for the Miami Marlins Aug. 5. “I got the phone call; I was in Miami with my significant other, who is expecting a baby in a couple of weeks, and I kind of lost it,” Alvarez said of getting the call up to the Marlins. “I have waited for this my entire life. All the work and dedication it has taken to achieve a goal like this. I knew immediately I had to share the news with my parents that live half a mile from me. I yelled at them through the window.” Alvarez is part of a wave of reinforcements for the Marlins. Several members of the team tested positive for COVID-19, and they were forced to activate several reserve players to their roster. This gave him his shot with the club. “It is unfortunate; my heart goes out to all of the players that have been affected by this,” he said. “This is a tough time. It created an opportunity for me. I am going to make the best of it every day. This game is relentless.” Alvarez was born to Cuban immigrants and was raised in Miami. He started rollerblading at the age of 5 and speed skating at 7 years old. When he was 11, he won age-level national speed skating titles. In high school, he played baseball well enough to earn a scholarship, but he stopped playing to pursue his skating. In 2010, because of a stomach virus, he missed making the Olympic team. He had years of chronic knee pain, and in 2011, he decided to take a break and joined the SLCC Bruins as a shortstop. He batted .303 and was named All-Conference. His knee pain did not
Page 6 | September 2020
improve and later had to have surgery to repair his patella tendons in both knees. After his surgery, he returned to skating and qualified for the 2014 Olympics in Sochi. He was the first Cuban-American to be named to the U.S. team. At the Olympics, he won a silver medal in the 5000-meter relay. He had decided after his skating career he would return to baseball. “The skating world has been nothing but supportive of me throughout the journey,” he said. “When I sat down and explained to them my goals and dreams, they did everything in their power to help me to proceed.” In June of 2014, he signed with the Chicago White Sox and was assigned to the Arizona Rookie League. He played six years in the minor leagues before making his MLB debut at 30 years old. “Eddy is a good athlete,” Marlins manager Don Mattingly told the Taylorsville Journal. “He has now turned to another sport, baseball. I think he is a Bo Jackson-type athlete. I expect him to be successful. I am comfortable with him on the field. He surprised me in camp with his swing and his efficiency. He is well versed and has lots of experience.” He collected his first hit Aug. 9 against the Mets and former Cy Young Award winner Jacob deGrom. “The first hit will be the one I want,” Alvarez said. “It will go right next to my medal, and then I can move on with my career. I think that going through the journey of going to the Olympics made the transition to baseball a lot easier. Six years to get here seems like a lifetime. There are setbacks, and I knew that I had to keep pushing forward. It is OK to dream and go after what you want. I skated in front of lots of people at the Olympics. I had the same jitters walking in opening ceremonies at the Olympics as I did in my first at-bat. It is was an unbelievable moment.” l
Taylorsville City Journal
All GSD schools now on same schedule; ventilation upgrades being put in place By Bill Hardesty | b.hardesty@mycityjournals.com
A
s you read this, schools are open or may be closed. We live in an unpredictable world. “We are on a big dial here, and as we continue to receive guidance from the health department, and if infection rate or caseloads increase, we fully expect that some of our schools will need to quarantine,” said Granite School District Communications Director Ben Horsley. “People ask what will happen. We will adjust the dial.” The main driver for adjusting the dial is three infections in a class or 15 in a school. Horsley pointed out that when you consider the size of a high school, 15 infections is a low threshold. Current plan? On Aug. 17, the Granite School District Board met in an emergency session to adjust the elementary schedule. Originally, elementary schools and secondary schools had different schedules. Secondary schools—junior high schools and high schools—are having in-classroom instruction Monday through Thursday. Friday will be a distant learning and planning day. The elementary schools would have in-classroom instruction Monday through Friday. Friday would be a short day, allowing teachers planning time. This plan was based on the notion of having dedicated in-classroom teachers and dedicated distant learning teachers for those students choosing the district’s distant learning option. However, with 90% of the students selecting in-class instruction, this puts a difficult burden on smaller elementary schools. For example, if there are two fourth grade teachers with 60 students and two fifth grade teachers with 60 students it is impractical to pull out one teacher for each grade. So, one teacher is pulled out for distant learning which requires a combined fourth- and fifth grade distant learning class and maybe even an in-class combined class. In addition, given the low online enrollment, the combined class most likely would have more grade levels combined to make a class. On Aug. 13, the Granite Education Association wrote an open letter to the GSD Board asking for change. “…Requesting that a weekly schedule similar to secondary be provided for elementary schools (Monday-Thursday students face-to-face, educators managing both modalities, and Fridays with all students online and an opportunity to prepare for their online students for the next week).” In response to their concerns, the board adopted a change unanimously. Elementary schools’ schedules will be the same as secondary schools. Elementary schools were also given the power to adapt to their unique school needs.
TaylorsvilleJ ournal.com
Impacts The most immediate impact on parents is the need for three additional hours of childcare. In some families, because secondary school students are also not at school, older siblings can take care of younger ones. An impact on teachers is that now all teachers will teach both in-classroom and online. This can add more difficulty for teachers. However, it also allows for continuity for the students on Friday and if a class or school has to switch to full-time online instruction. The board also approved two additional no-school days at the end of the first quarter. Oct. 21 and 22 are now professional development days and will allow the district and schools to make any adjustments. Zenger proposal Board member Todd Zenger made a motion in the meeting for a more modified schedule for all grades. His proposal would mean halfof the students would attend every other day. Horsley pointed out this schedule would mean high school students would see all of their teachers only once a week. The proposal addressed a concern of the GEA. In the open letter of Aug. 13 GEA wrote: “GEA just completed a survey of its membership. There were over 1,400 responses. A very large majority, over 69%, feel unsafe with the district’s current plan. Over 55%, 792 educators, say, “No amount of PPE and cleaning will be enough without the ability to create adequate distance between people in the building,” and only 8% say they have no concerns with Granite’s current plan for the 2020–21 school year.” The proposal never received a second and therefore was never discussed in the Aug.17 board meeting. Safety measures Superintendent Martin Bates reported at the meeting that GSD has tens of thousands of face masks and face shields for teachers and students. He also reported they have 10,000 desk dividers and 3,000 teachers’ shields available. A teacher shield is three-sided plastic on the teacher’s desk. The desk dividers are self-standing barriers around a student’s desk. Another safety measure GSD is putting into place concerns air flow. Proper air flow is one factor, along with face covering, hand washing, and physical distancing, that helps reduce the spread of viruses. The district workers are installing hospital-grade filters, known as MRVS, into all HVAC systems and is expected to be completed by the end of September. “The current requirement from the CDC that we have received is to have fresh air exchange twice a day,” Horsley said. “We already provide three fresh air exchanges an hour. Not only that, but we continue to run
In an emergency meeting, the Granite School District Board makes changes to the elementary school schedule. (Bill Hardesty/City Journals)
our HVAC system throughout the evening. So, those fresh air exchanges are happening constantly for the safety of our students and staff.” Having more fresh air exchanges and installing hospital-grade filters is above and beyond the current requirements. Online learning concern During a post-meeting interview with the media, Horsley mentioned that last spring 20% of students did not log on at all to online learning and that an additional 15%–20% did once. “Over 25,000 students struggled with distant learning either did not do it at all or only participated minimally,” he said. “In respect to that, we cannot write off 25,000 students in Granite School District. We know and our board knows there needs to be an in-person component. I think the number of families committed to in-person instruction is a reflection of that.” These surprising numbers occurred despite the district providing a Chromebook to students and using Wi-Fi enabled buses as hot spots. The district now has a 1:1 ratio of Chromebooks as well 1,000 portable hotspots that can be checked out by students along with 27 Wi-Fi buses. l
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Taylorsville City Journal
Being a mom to kids with mental health challenges
Aimee Winder Newton Salt Lake County Council | District 3
“I want to die. I’m done.” Those were the words I heard from one of my children several years ago. It was late one evening, my husband was out of town, and when my son came to me for help, my brain was reeling… I didn’t know what to do. I’m not alone when it comes to having children, a spouse, or other family members with mental health challenges. As I’ve worked on these issues as a Salt Lake County Councilmember, and on the state’s mental health crisis response commission, I know we need to talk openly and break the stigma. I’m grateful to my family members who have given me permission to share some of our experiences… A few of my kids have struggled with anxiety — it runs in my family. In fact, I can relate with how they feel because I, too, have battled it. After years of putting myself in high-anxiety situations, meeting with a helpful therapist, and learning my triggers (lack of sleep is the biggest one), I’ve been able to mostly overcome it. But my kids have had to learn in their own ways what their anxiety triggers are, and what they are willing to do to over-
come it. I’ve had some kids who gladly met with a therapist, and others who thought they “didn’t need that,” and later realized that therapy is immensely helpful. I’ve had some of my kids who have tried medication and decided it didn’t help them much, and others who are grateful for modern medicinal miracles. All have realized that solving mental health issues is more than taking a pill. It’s work. Physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health are intertwined. I’ve experienced depression as both the patient and the spouse. After my second baby was born, I found myself dealing with post partum depression and it was awful. Feeling like you have nothing to look forward to, and even wondering if your presence on this earth is meaningful is not a pleasant experience, but I gained empathy for those who deal with it. My husband went through a bout of depression a few years after we were married. I think that being the spouse of someone dealing with depression is far worse than actually being depressed myself. It was the most helpless feeling I
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Taylorsville City Journal
City of Taylorsville Newsletter
www.taylorsvilleut.gov
September 2020
2600 West Taylorsville Boulevard • 801-963-5400
MAYOR'S MESSAGE
City’s 2020 Vision is Moving Full Speed Ahead
Dear Friends and Neighbors, When we rang in this Year 2020 a short nine months ago, I don’t think any of us had anticipated then what the year would bring. Certainly, none us could have predicted that the wearing of protective masks and social disMayor Kristie S. Overson tancing would be our new norm. We did not see that we would be confronting a once-in-a-century virus. We definitely did not know then what we know now. It has been challenging, to be sure, but we are weathering the difficulties and emerging even stronger. We also have not let these challenges slow us down. As a city, we have been working diligently to not only find solutions and provide assistance amid recent challenges, but we have also been charging full speed ahead with the goals we set a year ago for ourselves and our community for Year 2020 and the 2020s decade. Last year, we defined that work as our 2020 Vision, and this year, we have been concentrating on putting that vision into motion. Many of our plans outlined in our 2020 Vision are coming closer to fruition this year, including the opening of the Mid-Valley Performing Arts Center, the grand opening of the Target store at The Crossroads of Taylorsville shopping center, the groundbreaking next month of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ temple, and the opening of the Bangerter Highway interchange at 6200 South next summer. We’ve also awarded the bid for the City Center open space project that will tie City Hall and the Performing Arts Center into one community-centric space, and we’ve secured almost all the funding for the Midvalley Connector BRT route that will get under way in the spring. (See accompanying article for details about these projects and many more). Our 2020 Vision is a vision for the 2020s decade, beginning on Jan. 1, 2020, and ending on Dec. 31, 2029. Community and economic development is its No. 1 tenet. The vision also outlines plans in the areas of public safety, transportation, parks and recreation, and community building because these are the components that make a successful community. In my first column of this year, written back in January, I anticipated it would be a whirlwind year — and that it is, in more ways than one. While I am definitely no Nostradamus, I also wrote that I had a feeling these ‘20s would be roaring for us. I still believe that to be the case, and the reason is because of our Team Taylorsville. We are committed to our 2020 Vision, and I know that by working together we can accomplish anything. –Mayor Kristie S. Overson
WHAT’S INSIDE – SEPTEMBER 2020 Frequently Called Numbers, Page 2 Council Corner, Page 3 Community, Pages 5-6 Heritage Remembrances, Page 7 Environment, Page 8
City leaders and employees have been working with focus and purpose on implementing Taylorsville’s 2020 Vision that was established in an effort to build on past successes while defining a path for the future. The 2020 Vision was adopted for the next decade and focuses on five key areas: economic development, public safety, transportation, parks and recreation, and community building. It’s a 2020 Vision because, of course, perfect eyesight is 20/20 and city leaders are looking to the upcoming decade called the 2020s, beginning on Jan. 1, 2020, and ending on Dec. 31, 2029. The vision is meant to create a forward-thinking, proactive and reinvigorating approach focused on better serving residents, visitors, businesses and property owners. “It’s a great time to live and work in Taylorsville,” said Mayor Kristie Overson. “There is so much happening here, and it will only get better as we continue to build on these efforts and further work to turn this vision into reality.” At the City Council’s Aug. 5 meeting, Community and Economic Development Director Wayne Harper detailed several planned and completed projects in the vision’s area of economic development. Among them:
• The Mid-Valley Performing Arts Center is on track to open at the end of this year. The glass on the exterior has been placed and 60 percent of the concrete has been poured. The $39 million center, operated by Salt Lake County, will feature a 400-seat theater, smaller 200-seat theater, multi-use rehearsal space and public art installations. “It’s looking really, really good,” Harper noted. • The City Center open space project is under way. The bid was awarded and the city will soon sign the contract to get the work started this month. The ambitious new landscaping and open space design will tie the Mid-Valley Performing Arts Center and City Hall into one cohesive space. • New businesses are opening across the city. A medical office will open in
• The new Target Store at The Crossroads of Taylorsville. The building was turned over to Target on July 20 and the signs are up. Every day since, there have been semi-trucks unloading racks, shelving and fixtures. The store plans a soft opening in October, with an official ribbon cutting in December.
2020 VISION CONTINUED ON PAGE 4
PAGE 2
| www.taylorsvilleut.gov
City of Taylorsville Newsletter Looking for Ways to Clean Up? Green Committee has a List for You
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EVENTS SEPTEMBER 2020 Sept. 2 & 16 – 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
Sept. 7 – All Day
Labor Day. City Hall is closed in observance, reopening on Tuesday, Sept. 8.
Sept. 8 – 7 p.m. & Sept. 22 – 6 p.m.
Planning Commission Meeting @ City Hall. At its Sept. 22 meeting, the Planning Commission will discuss the book it has been reading, “Strong Towns.” Anyone is welcome to read along. See details about the Book Club on Page 8.
Sept. 30 – 6:30 p.m.
Council Interviews @ City Hall. The City Council will interview candidates to fill the midterm vacancy of the District 3 Council seat. It is basically a public job interview and the Council will make the final decision. 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
Even though the Taylorsville Green Committee was unable to hold its annual Earth Day Collection event this year due to COVID-19, the committee still wants to help. They have compiled a list of resources that can be utilized to keep items out of the landfill and help you get rid of stuff you may be storing around your house. First, the committee reminds that every residential property can request up to two dump vouchers each year. These vouchers are good for up to $16 off one load of material at the Salt Lake Valley Landfill, 6030 W. California Ave. (1300 South). Mattresses and tires are extra. The landfill is open 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Request your voucher by calling 801-955-2013 or stop by the Taylorsville City Hall second-floor reception desk, 2600 W. Taylorsville Blvd. Many of the items you may not know how to dispose of properly, including chemicals and electronics, are accepted at the Hazardous Waste facility located at the Salt Lake Valley Landfill. Check their website https://slco.org/landfill/ or call 385-468-6370 for an even more comprehensive list. Use these additional resources to dispose of items, including: Excess garden fruit or vegetables — Taylorsville Food Pantry, 4743 Plymouth View Dr., 801-8150003. Hours: Monday 1 to 3 p.m., Wednesday 4 to 6 p.m., and Saturday 10 a.m. to noon. Motor oil or car/truck batteries — Any AutoZone or O’Reilly Auto Parts stores. Glass recycling — Bin outside the Taylorsville Senior Center, 4743 Plymouth View Dr. Used clothing/household items — Savers, 4145 S. Redwood Rd., 801-262-2150 and Utah Thrift, 3869 W. 5400 South, 801-413-3736. Metal — Redwood Recycling, 6235 S. Redwood Rd., 801-447-2377. Fireworks or ammunition — Call the Fire Department at 801-743-7200 and they will arrange drop-off. Paper shredding — Rocky Mountain Document Destruction. Call 801-384-1900 or go to rmshred.com for more information. Computer recycling — Drop off at any PC Laptops location. Mattress recycling — Spring Back Utah. Drop off at 1929 S. 4130 West #D, 801-906-8146. $20 fee for each item. If you have another business that you think should be on this list, please contact Ernest Burgess at 801-654-4482 or by email eburgess@taylorsvilleut.gov. Look for the “Taylorsville Green” group on Facebook for more tips and info.
September 2020
2600 West Taylorsville Boulevard • 801-963-5400 |
PAGE 3
COUNCIL CORNER Things are Happening in Taylorsville as Construction Projects Abound By Council Member Curt Cochran What a year we have had, more than halfway in to 2020. If you think back to December, I don’t know that anyone would have predicted some of the things that we as Utahns and Americans have had to endure the last several months. I think that many have had enough and are asking ourselves, “When is it going to start getting better?” It is a natural and fair question to ask. Like my fellow Council members, I choose to look for the positive and the best in people, situations and opportunities. I, for one, am an optimist, by nature and by choice. It would be easy to look back at the last eight months and reflect on all those things behind us. Instead, I like to focus on what’s on the horizon for Taylorsville specifically, and it’s exciting to see where we are headed. In October, Target is expected to open at 5600 S. Redwood Road, in The Crossroads of Taylorsville shopping center. This will be an excellent addition to Taylorsville’s retail environment and a boost to the center. Strong businesses attract other strong businesses. A couple of weeks ago, I had the privilege of touring the new Mid-Valley Performing Arts Center located in front of City Hall. This will be a top-notch facility that has the best equipment from all over the world. I am so
excited to see what types of events this facility will host. I know the city has had inquiries from across the state from different organizations eager to host an event. In addition, adjacent to the Performing Arts Center will be a beautiful, landscaped open area. As a city, we’ve been working on just the right look for this area and our city planners have come up with some awesome ideas that we are all thrilled about. We were surprised at the last fall conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints when it was announced that the church planned to build a temple in Taylorsville. Many residents enjoyed having conversations with family, friends and neighbors about just where this temple would go in the city. We all asked ourselves, “Where in Taylorsville is there enough open property to build a temple?” Many were surprised with the church’s decision, but I do think that their choice is a positive one, which will make an energetic impact to the area. Lastly, for this article, I include the announcement of the Beltway West business complex project on 2700 West, adjacent to I-215 and north of the new State Office building (formerly the American Express complex). While this project may take a few years to complete, the announcement of the plans, along with all of the other things going on in the city, further shows that Taylorsville is where things are happening.
Left to right: Curt Cochran (District 2) Ernest Burgess (District 1) Dan Armstrong, (District 5) Meredith Harker, Chair (District 4) Brad Christopherson, Vice Chair (District 3)
Church Releases Picture of Temple in Taylorsville, Sets Groundbreaking A newly released picture from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints provides a glimpse of how the planned temple in Taylorsville will look. Its classic, more traditional design gives nod to the church meetinghouse that it will replace while seeming to also echo the blond brick used in the new Mid-Valley Performing Arts Center, also under construction in the city. The artist's rendering, showing the planned design of the temple's exterior, was released Aug. 13, by the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
"The temple is beautiful and represents the community and our pioneer heritage," Mayor Kristie Overson said. "It's reflective of our historic roots while also complementing more modern structures in our community such as the new Performing Arts Center. It's quite remarkable, really, how The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints encapsulated the look of our community so well." Also announced was a groundbreaking ceremony for the Taylorsville Utah Temple that will be held in October. Elder Gerrit W. Gong of the church's Quorum of the Twelve Apostles will preside at the event. The Taylorsville Utah Temple, first announced in October 2019, will be built on a 7.5-acre site located at 2603 W. 4700 South. The structure will be a three-story building of approximately 70,000 square feet, with a center spire. It is styled in the pioneer gothic architecture with limestone and granite finishes, according to FFKR architects. As part of the announcement, the church also detailed plans for its Red Cliffs Utah Temple in St. George. The temple in Taylorsville is being built on church property and will replace a chapel, pavilion and softball fields that were cleared away last month. The demolition of the meetinghouse drew many onlookers, including residents and neighbors who had attended church services there for decades and took
the opportunity to reminisce as they watched the excavators and grading machinery. The temple will sit where the softball fields were located, and a two-level parking structure with 472 stalls will be constructed in place of the chapel building. One level of the parking structure will be at ground level, while the second level will be underground. The main entrance of the temple will be situated on Chentelle Drive, and a second entrance will be at the southwest corner of the property. The City of Taylorsville continues to address transportation improvements in the area, including facilitation of the coming Bus Rapid Transit system, frontage road work, road widening and intersection realignment. The temple will be visible to 100,000 people a day who pass on the freeway.
PAGE 4
| www.taylorsvilleut.gov
City of Taylorsville Newsletter
City’s Former Fire Liaison to Lead Formation of New Police Department The City of Taylorsville has appointed former Assistant Fire Chief Jay Ziolkowski to head the Project Management Team formed to put together the city’s new municipal police department. The Taylorsville City Police Department will begin operations on July 1, 2021. The Project Management Team, made up primarily of administrators and staff already working for the city, has been meeting weekly since July 1 of this year — when the City Council voted to give notice of its intent to leave Unified Police Department and move police services in-house. The team is tasked with providing accountability of the objectives required to create the new police department and ensuring an effective transition for law enforcement services. Ziolkowski will act as team leader and facilitator. Mayor Kristie Overson said Ziolkowski has already identified and set timelines and benchmarks, and interviewed several representatives from neighboring agencies and other stakeholders in gathering information and input. “He is amazing,” she said. “He knows public safety inside and out, and we’re really excited to work with him on this
year-long transition. It’s going to be a hard, long process but he is a great man to get us where we need to be.” Ziolkowski retired earlier this year from the Unified Fire Authority after 27 years with the agency. He began his career on April 1, 1993, as a firefighter with the then-Salt Lake County Fire Department. Over the years, he worked as an inspector, paramedic, captain and battalion chief within Taylorsville City. He followed in the footsteps of his father, who was a fire captain in Eugene, Ore. As a member of the Taylorsville Exchange Club since 1998, he also has served as a member of the Taylorsville Dayzz Committee, including parade chairperson for 10 years. Ziolkowski, who is contracting with the city as a consultant, said he is looking forward to his new job as Project Management Team leader. “It will be challenging and there are a lot of moving parts but I am confident we will form a top-notch police department,” he said. “The new Taylorville City Police Department will ensure the high level of safety and security residents have come to expect while operating efficiently and closer to home.” Find additional information about the city’s decision to form a municipal police department, including an FAQ and timeline of the work ahead, on the city’s website: www.taylorsvilleut.gov.
2020 VISION CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 the two-lot subdivision at Redwood Road and 6200 South, along with a new dental center a few blocks from there. A new 7-Eleven store at 1500 West and 5400 South celebrated with a ribbon cutting this past month. The AutoZone at 1900 West and 5400 South is about halfway through construction and will open later this fall, and the Macey’s at the Taylorsville Town Center is expected to hold its first case-lot sale and a ribbon cutting this month. Other new businesses include a Swig n’Sweets, also at the Town Center; a Coffee Complex across from Salt Lake Community College on Redwood Road; a new State Liquor Store along 2700 West next to the new State Office Building, and a Dutch Bros Coffee shop, in the former Arctic Circle space at 3883 W. 5400 South. Several additional small businesses are opening at Carriage Square, Jade Square, MillStone Plaza and The Crossroads of Taylorville. • Summit Vista will open its Assisted Living and Memory Care facilities next June. Residential Building 3 is scheduled to open in a couple of months, and work on Building 4 will pick back up in April. • Improvements also are in the works at several shopping centers, including new roofing, HVAC, repaired masonry, new parking lot lights and update landscaping at the Taylorsville Town Center, and building exterior updates at The Crossroads of Taylorsville. Westwood Village property owners also are working with a developer to completely redo the center. “There is so much going on in our city and we are thrilled that we are the place where businesses want to be,” said Harper, who also noted that for the second year in a row Taylorsville made Verizon’s Top 50 list of “Best Small Cities to Start a Small Business.” Within the 2020 Vision’s other focus areas, on public safety: The city is focused on creating a new municipal police department that is expected to provide a better operating model for the future, ensuring greater public safety (see accompanying article). In the area of transportation: The Casa Linda Apartments have been cleared away to allow for construction of the Midvalley Connector Bus Rapid Transit line, expected to begin in spring next year. The Redwood Road beautification project also is on track.
Regarding parks and recreation: New gateway signs are now in manufacturing for 5400 South and Redwood Road, as well as Cabana Park. And finally, in the area of community building: The city continues its tradition of supporting community-wide events with reliance on a vast network of volunteers, including the Taylorsville Arts Council and Parks and Rec Committee, which both notably held several unique events this summer as a workaround to COVID-19 restrictions. “We can’t be more pleased with all that is happening in our community,” said Mayor Overson. “Taylorsville is definitely the place to be.”
September 2020
2600 West Taylorsville Boulevard • 801-963-5400 |
PAGE 5
Nursing Students Put Together Care Packages for Taylorsville Seniors Taylorsville resident Pamela Light knew she wanted to do something to help the many seniors who have felt isolated and alone as the novel coronavirus has impacted older, at-risk populations and prevented visitors and social gatherings. Her own 80-year-old uncle was living at a care center and suffering through depression before his eventual passing. "It was so hard to not know what to do or how to help," Light said. So she came up with an idea: She'd spread a little bit of sunshine. Light has been working toward a nursing degree at Eagle Gate College, graduating at the end of August. For her program's Capstone Project, she decided to organize a service project for seniors. She and fellow nursing students Cheryl Johnson and Em"Most of our seniors like to go to the Taylorsville Senior Center to be with friends manuel Fobi spent the month of July gathering and soliciting donations to make care and be active," Light said. "But because of COVID-19, they cannot let people come packages to cheer up seniors at the Taylorsville Senior Center. They titled their project in so we are putting together packages to help them get through this hard time to "A Little Bit of Sunshine." brighten their day." Light, Johnson and Fobi spent the morning of July 29 putting together the packages at City Hall, where some city staff members and even Mayor Kristie Overson joined in. Light's son, Wyatt Ward, who will graduate from Taylorsville High this school year, also was on hand to help. "It was such a fun thing to do, to assemble these packages and see the TLC of these nurses," Mayor Overson said. To aid in the project, Taylorsville City committed to donating 70 chapsticks and 70 bottles of hand sanitizer. Many residents and city employees dropped off those items and more at City Hall to contribute to the packages. The city also designated the project as part of the #RallyTheValley2020 campaign. The 20-day initiative, which spanned two landmark holidays — July 4 and July 24, spotlighted the “best” of what was happening in the valley as a way for residents to inspire each other and highlight community involvement.
Family, Friends, Colleagues Remember Judge Kwan Family, friends and colleagues paid their final respects to Taylorsville Municipal Judge Michael W. Kwan at City Hall on July 31. In solemn ceremony, a procession made its way to City Hall where Judge Kwan laid in state that afternoon. Taylorsville Mayor Kristie Overson also issued a proclamation honoring his life and requesting that flags in the city be flown at half staff. "The City of Taylorsville owes a great debt of gratitude to Judge Kwan for his tireless efforts to serve his community, especially as the City's justice court judge, advocating for the rule of law through his compassion, patience, and good humor," states the proclamation issued July 29. Judge Kwan passed away at his home on July 21, with his wife by his side. His family said he died of natural causes. To honor his life, his family organized a processional from MacDougall Funeral Home to City Hall, where he laid in state in Council Chambers and the public was invited to pay their respects. The city's proclamation declared that city flags be lowered to half staff in honor of Judge Kwan and asked that businesses and individuals also lower their flags. "The Mayor of the City, on behalf of the citizens of the City, does hereby proclaim sincere gratitude, appreciation and commendation for the exemplary service and sacrifice Judge Kwan has given to his country, his family, and the City community," according to the proclamation. "Judge Kwan has truly and unforgettably changed the community for the better." In memory of Judge Kwan, donations can be made to OCA, Asian Pacific Advocates. (OCA is a national organization dedicated to advancing the social, political, and economic well-being of Asian Pacific Americans). Judge Kwan and his family are long-time residents of Taylorsville and have been actively involved in the community on many levels. Judge Kwan has presided over the Taylorsville Justice Court for 22 years, since 1998.
“We will sincerely miss Judge Kwan and all that he brought to the court,” Mayor Overson said upon his passing. “He was compassionate and often extended a second chance for many. Above all, his model was fairness and he eschewed bigotry and racism with every essence of his being.” The City of Taylorsville is working with the Utah Administrative Office of the Courts to ensure that Judge Kwan’s replacement will be appointed as soon as possible. A substitute judge will fill in, in the meantime, to ensure the seamless administration of court services.
PAGE 6
City of Taylorsville Newsletter
| www.taylorsvilleut.gov
Coronavirus Precautions Put in Place as Students Return to School Students heading back to school this month will see a few changes that have been implemented to keep them and their schools safe amid the novel coronavirus pandemic. The Governor’s Office, the Utah Department of Health, and the Association of Local Health Departments have outlined specific procedures for reopening schools in their COVID-19 School Manual. Among the requirements and recommendations, schools should utilize more electronic means of communication, have a plan to provide alternative learning to higher-risk students, and accommodate remote learning. Schools are also required to implement protocols for an increased cleaning and hygiene regimen. The Granite School District, which oversees most schools in Taylorsville, is working closely with local health departments and state officials to meet the needs of families, and ensure the safety of students and staff. School was scheduled to start Monday, Aug. 24, for Granite District students, with kindergarten starting Aug. 27. Two learning options have been provided to families, including in-person instruction at school or teacher-delivered distance learning. Classes will run on regular schedules Monday through Thursday. All students will use distance learning on Fridays. Per state mandate, face coverings are required for students and anyone visiting the school, and on buses. Spaced desks and assigned seating will be used for contact tracing, and students will follow a schedule of regular handwashing. Teachers and staff will wear face coverings at school, and school plans will allow for appropriate social distancing. In addition, building cleaning/disinfecting schedules will be enhanced, and each school will have an isolated health room. Students who are sick must stay home, and will be sent home if they come to school while sick. In the event of a local outbreak, classrooms or entire schools may be dismissed for a period of time.
See additional details about school operations at www.graniteschools.org and find more information in general about the coronavirus at www.taylorsvilleut.gov
Chief Recognizes Officers for Critical Work For their bravery and diligence in protecting the City of Taylorsville, five officers were formally recognized by Police Chief Tracy Wyant. Those presented with awards at the City Council’s July meeting were: • April Officer of the Month: Brandy Stephens • May Officer of the Month: Grayson Van Leeuwen • June Officer of the Month: Dan Christensen • May Chief’s Award: Officer Erica Austin • June Chief’s Award: Sgt. Brett Miller In honoring Stephens, Chief Wyant noted her 23 years of service in law enforcement, including eight years as office manager of the Taylorsville Precinct. “She has gone above and beyond in keeping the Taylorsville precinct safe in the midst of COVID-19,” the chief said. “Without direction, Brandy ordered and procured PPE and sanitizing supplies for the entire precinct. Her foresight has kept the precinct staff safe.” Van Leeuwen was recognized for “incredible diligence in following up with leads, yielding significant results in cases of fraud, forgery, identity theft and burglary.” His work resulted in the prosecution of one second-degree felony and seven third-degree felonies. Christensen has been “critical in providing quality and efficient public safety to the City of Taylorsville,” Wyant said. He recently led a crosswalk enforcement operation and DUI Blitz in the months of May and June. Chief’s award recipients Austin and Miller were honored for critical police work. Austin investigated aggravated assault and related DUI cases “with precision and promptness.” The Salt Lake District Attorney's Office filed charges based on her work without any additional follow-up investigation. In June, Miller and other officers were dispatched to a reported burglary in Taylorsville. Miller brought up concerns about the inconsistencies with the call, and ultimately called off police officers. Two days later, it was discovered the caller had committed suicide. A supply of firearms and ammunition also were discovered at the home, suggesting a possible ambush. “It is absolutely believed that through Sgt. Miller's experience, intuition and leadership, a potential catastrophe was avoided,” Wyant said. Council Chair Meredith Harker led those attending in a standing ovation in honor of the award recipients.
Amateur Radio Club Ready to Help in Any Emergency When the 5.7-magnitude earthquake hit Utah in March, police and fire departments moved quickly in response to calls from affected areas. But it begged a question: What would happen if the earthquake damaged the infrastructure to contact those departments? In such circumstances, Amateur Radio Emergency Communications would step in to help. In fact, when the Utah earthquake struck, the Taylorsville Amateur Radio Club was taking a roll call with almost every member and was prepared to report on any needs with the police department, fire department, utilities or damage within the community. “We're currently working on bridging the communication gap in an emergency with police, fire, water, air, gas, the CERT program and the safe neighborhood program,” said Troy Buchanan, president of the Taylorsville club. Buchanan and club members demonstrated what they can do and how they can communicate during a recent City Council meeting, where a member from each Council District performed a check-in with club license trustee Rulon Swensen over the radio set up in the Council Chambers. The Taylorsville Amateur Radio Club has more than 50 active members in the city who conduct check-ins, or “nets,” each week to test their communication skills and equipment in anticipation of an emergency. Over this past year, the Taylorsville Amateur Radio Club has donated over 389 service hours to the City of Taylorsville simply with nets alone. Their weekly nets are held every Monday evening at 8:30 p.m. on 146.740 (-) [tone 114.8] or 448.100 (-) [tone 114.8], with their back-up repeater being 146.94 (-) [tone88.5]. Find more information about the Taylorsville Amateur Radio Club at www.taylorsvillehamnet.org
September 2020
2600 West Taylorsville Boulevard • 801-963-5400 |
Taylorsville Bennion Heritage REMEMBRANCES By The Taylorsville Historical Society Arnold and Verna Mauchley of Bennion, Utah, were married April 9, 1926. The photo included shows them as they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. Verna was born March 30, 1908, in Union, Utah, and passed away July 15, 1989, at age 81. Her maiden name was Verna Ellis Gregory. Arnold Mauchley was born August 27, 1900, in Salt Lake City to Lenard and Mary Krof. He was a retired farmer and former custodian of the original Plymouth School on 4800 South and Redwood Road. As a retired couple, they occupied much of their time working in their summer garden and traveled to Canada a few times. They liked to spend the winter months in Arizona. The were active members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and had three children: Ivan of Murray, Utah; Vern, West Point, Utah; Inez (Mrs. Paul Vander), Linden, Utah. Their home was in Bennion where they raised their family at 2030 W. 5400 South.
Be Sure to Complete Your Census Survey If you haven’t yet completed your 2020 Census form, be sure to do it this month. The Census Bureau will end field data collection and self-response options by Sept. 30 to permit time for data processing. You can respond to the Census online, by phone or by mail. Please remember that the Census will count everyone. It does not include a question about citizenship or immigration status and no enumerator will ask anyone about their immigration status at the doors. Census takers can be easily identified by a valid government ID badge with their photograph, U.S. Department of Commerce watermark and an expiration date on the badge. To confirm a census taker’s identity, the public may contact their regional census center to speak with a Census Bureau representative. The Census Bureau is making follow-up calls to some households that have already completed the 2020 census to make sure everyone in their house was counted and to validate information provided. If households don’t answer the call, agents will leave a voicemail with a 12-digit ID as a reference number. This operation will end on Oct. 31. Find more information at www.census.gov
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PAGE 7
TAYLORSVILLE SENIOR CENTER 4743 S. Plymouth View Drive
Taylorsville Senior Center Goes Virtual Salt Lake County is pleased to announce the development of a Virtual Senior Center. Aging & Adult Services' new Virtual Senior Center will offer programming that seniors can do from the safety of their own home. You can read more about the Virtual Senior Center and view current programs, by accessing the center’s newsletter online or stopping by the Taylorsville Senior Center, 4743 S. Plymouth View Drive, during drive-thru lunch hours (11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Monday through Friday) to pick up a copy. These programs will include o n l i n e, v i d e o co n fe re n ce, telephone, or self- guided activities that require neither phone nor computer. A variety of class types will be available ranging from support groups, exercise classes, education, arts and crafts, and even self-guided tours of local areas. The development is ongoing. For example, the center has exercise classes and wellness videos on the department’s YouTube page from the Health Promotion program, and staff members are working every day to create new opportunities, including presentations, classes, support groups and more. Please check out the Taylorsville Senior Center’s website, Facebook page, and sign up for their email blast to receive current updates: www.slco.org/taylorsville-senior-center
Taylorsville Library is Open by Appointment The County Library is open for curbside appointments and inside express appointments to pick up physical items. You can also still access eBooks, eAudiobooks, eMagazines, and other materials through the Salt Lake County Library website with your library card at www.thecountylibrary.org. Keep your eye on the library’s calendar for virtual programming, and for take home crafts! Find details at: https:// events.slcolibrary.org/events Check out more of the library’s passive programming, including Digital Escape Rooms and Scavenger Hunts, STEM Friday, and more on its Facebook page @TheCountyLibrary September 2020 | Page 17
PAGE 8
City of Taylorsville Newsletter
| www.taylorsvilleut.gov
‘Localscape’ Your Unappreciative Lawn Is your lawn really worth it? After a long, hot summer, that’s the question you may ask. Consider the frustration of irrigation systems not working, weeds that grow no matter how hot it is and weekends sacrificed to maintain that unappreciative lawn. There is a better way to have a beautiful yard while saving time and water. Localscapes to the rescue. The professional team of horticulturists, landscape designers, maintenance pros and irrigation experts are here to help. It’s a free resource promoting a moderate approach to waterwise landscaping that is appropriate for Utah. Visit Localscapes.com for more information. If you have any questions regarding this article, please contact the Taylorsville-Bennion Improvement District office at 801-9689081, visit their website, www.tbid.org, and or follow them on Facebook and Twitter. QUESTIONS? Please contact Taylorsville-Bennion Improvement District by calling 801-968-9081 or visiting www.tbid.org. You can also follow the district on Facebook and Twitter.
SEPTEMBER WFWRD UPDATES
PLANNING COMMISSION
AREA CLEANUP RESULTS Taylorsville’s Area Cleanup took place between June 12 and July 7. During this time, 1,422 tons of waste was collected in 1,533 containers. Additionally, 473 mattresses, 68 tires and 26 refrigerators were collected. The majority of comments, regarding the change in how the service was provided, have been positive. Residents who really needed/wanted the service were able to utilize the containers without the issues of them being full before they could use it. As service continues throughout the district this year, improvements are being identified and implemented in preparation for next year.
REMOVE YOUR CANS FROM THE STREET AFTER COLLECTION Salt Lake County Health Department Sanitation Regulations (Regulation #7, paragraph 4.3.2) state that “containers shall not be set out on the street prior to the evening of the day before the scheduled collection. All containers shall be removed from the street the same day they are emptied.” Please keep your neighborhood streets clean by quickly removing your waste/recycle/green waste/glass cans from the street and public access ways after collection.
PLASTIC BAGS WFWRD is still seeing lots of plastic bags in the curbside recycle cans. They ask that all residents keep plastic bags and all thin film plastic materials out of the blue recycle cans. These bags create a lot of problems at the recycling processing facility. Page 18 | September 2020
Read
Aug. thru Sept. 22
Discussion Sept. 22
All are welcome to read along. See details at: www.taylorsvilleut.gov
Taylorsville City Journal
In the Warriors’ first game of the season, junior center Tau Ieremia got injured early in the contest, but he told his coaches they would have to carry him off the field. (Photo courtesy of Greg James/City Journals.)
Taylorsville has some of the best talent in the state By Greg James | g.james@mycityjournals.com
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I
ts flashes of brilliance and disappointment make the Taylorsville football team a tough team to pick or ignore in Utah’s Class 6A. “We are a more talented team,” second-year head coach Joe Johnson said. “We need to execute to win these games.” In its opening game of the 2020 season, the Warriors matched up against cross-town rival Copper Hills, a team they have beaten 15 out of 22 times in school history, but they were unable to avenge last season’s drubbing losing 32-6. Senior quarterback Hamani Wolfgramm engineered a first-quarter drive that ended with a short 5-yard keeper for a touchdown to put the Warriors up 6-0, but that was about all they could muster. “Our defense held tight and played a great game,” Johnson said after the loss. “They were in the backfield making plays, and they kept us in the game. Our offense had trouble executing. Offensively, we had lots of dropped balls and issues on special teams. We need to focus on us and fix us. I have seen these boys play well all summer. I know they can do it.” Senior running back/linebacker Braxton Bates was a bright spot in the loss. “Bates is one of the best players in the state of Utah,” Johnson said. “If he is not playing for one of the major teams—Utah, Utah State, or Weber—next season, if one of them doesn’t pick him up, then I don’t know what they are looking at on tape. He plays like his hair is on fire—an absolute beast. He is a two-sport athlete (baseball), a good student and good kid.” “Coach is not wrong,” Warriors’ offensive coordinator Chris Hooper said. “The kid
is a stud at both linebacker and running back.” Bates averaged over six yards a carry and scored five touchdowns last season. He also had 11 receptions and nearly seven tackles a game on defense. Three offensive turnovers in the Copper Hills game put its strong defense in compromising situations all game. “An injury before the game hurt us, and we just had no confidence, and I know these kids really wanted it too,” Johnson said. Junior center Tau Ieremia got injured early in the contest. “He [Ieremia] has the biggest heart you are going to see,” Johnson said. “He told me, ‘They are going to need to drag me off the field, coach.’ He is the heartbeat of the team. Martin [Lawrence] has potential for sure. He has promise and is doing great things for us.” Lawrence suffered a knee injury int he first half and had to be helped off the field. Before his injury, the Copper Hills running game was held in check; afterward they compiled four rushing touchdowns. “There are a lot of great players on this team,” Johnson said. “Will Taukeiaho is a monster and very emotional. Kamal Wani brings the wood. I expect a lot from all of them.” The Warriors are scheduled to play at Kearns Friday, Sept. 4, and host Cyprus Sept. 11. They compete in Region 2. “We have a tough region,” Johnson said. “Kearns and Hunter will be tough. Those games are fun. The kids are playing against family in those games. It is kind of an angry rivalry. It is great to see that on the sidelines. I believe we can compete in this region; we just need to fix us. l
September 2020 | Page 19
Taylorsville hockey player heads to Michigan By Greg James | g.james@mycityjournals.com
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eagan Tolley is a two-sport athlete who is taking her talents on the ice, literally. “I am excited to go out and play hockey,” Tolley said. “I really felt good about the program in Michigan, and I know that I can excel there.” Tolley has signed a letter of intent to continue her hockey career at Concordia University Ann Arbor in Michigan. She was a three-year varsity starter and was an academic all-star award winner twice and named the winner of the Art Teece Memorial award in 2018. The award is given to the Utah High School Hockey female MVP. She played on the Oquirrh Independent team in division one of the Utah High School Hockey League. The team is made up of players from Salt Lake County that do not have enough to form a single school team. Hockey is not a sanctioned high school sport. She was also a cheerleader at Taylorsville. As a member of the cheer team, she won a state pom championship in 2018.
“I danced a lot when I was younger,” Tolley said. “That taught me to never give up and keep trying. I started playing hockey when I was young. We went to the learn to skate program, and it took off from there.” The 5-foot-4-inch center led the Tier 2 Utah Lady Grizzlies in assists while scoring six goals in her first two years of competitive high school hockey. “Playing forward is hard,” she said. “It takes the development of all the hockey skills. You need to be a good skater and puck handler. I also try to be good at getting the puck to my teammates so they can score easily. I really have worked on my face-offs.” Concordia finished its second year of competitive hockey this spring. “I am really excited to continue building our program with our incoming class of forwards,” Concordia head coach Maria Barlow said. “I know this group is going to bring our offensive game up another step with their passion for the game and work ethic.” Concordia University added men’s and women’s hockey in 2018. The Cardinal finished last season without a win in 18 contests. They did play the University of Michigan three times. “I look forward to growing their game while helping them grow in their faith while at Concordia,” Barlow said. Tolley is excited to get a chance. “I really encourage kids to look outside of the state for opportunities, not only in sports but in schooling,” Tolley said. “Concordia was able to help me financially so I can go to school there and get a good education.” l
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As a cheerleader at Taylorsville High School, Reagan Tolley helped win a state pom title in 2018. She will now try to score goals in Michigan. (Photo courtesy of Reagan Tolley.)
Taylorsville City Journal
Summit Vista residents remain 100% COVID-19 free as several learn how to make pet toys from ‘junk’ By Carl Fauver | c.fauver@mycityjournals.com
L
A lot can change in half a year. We’ve perhaps all learned that more over the past six months than ever before. Back in the March edition of the Taylorsville Journal, you read a story about the first-ever wedding held the Summit Vista (3400 West 6200 South) senior living community. You also read about hundreds of Calvin Smith Elementary School students making pet toys, from recyclable materials. A couple of words you did not see in that issue were: “coronavirus,” “social distancing,” “COVID-19” or “quarantine.” Kids are no longer gathering in tight quarters to make pet toys, and Summit Vista residents are no longer assembling to wish brides and grooms good luck. But dogs and cats at the Taylorsville-West Valley City Animal Shelter (4522 West 3500 South) still want toys, while Summit Vista residents still want things to do, particularly community service activities. “We have a lot of talented residents who are frustrated they cannot go out to do their normal volunteer work,” said Summit Vista Community Life Coordinator Debbie White. “This project gives them a chance to do their thing and feel good about giving back to the community. We have a lot of residents who are willing to try new things.” Fifteen of those residents participated in a recent pet toy-making project, taught to them over Zoom by a pair of Taylorsville animal advocates, Lynette Wendel and Janice Fields. “These are the same dog and cat toys— made from old socks, water bottles, toilet paper rolls and small bells—that we taught the elementary school kids to make earlier this year,” Wendel said. “Summit Vista residents are so engaged and such a big part of our community. We wanted to make sure they have an outlet to remain active.” Truth be told, the toys are incredibly simple to make, so the bulk of the session was spent chit-chatting. At one point each resident was asked “What kind of animal would you like to
be?” For the record, winged creatures won the day, including a butterfly, ladybug and hummingbird, although otter, shark and puppy were also mentioned. “In a recent survey of our residents, 95% said they feel safe and confident with how our staff is addressing coronavirus concerns, and many said there is nowhere else they would rather be during this pandemic,” said Summit Vista Community Life Director Raquel Braithwaite. “But we are continually looking for ways to keep our community active during this time. I had talked with Lynette [Wendel] about a pet toy-making class before COVID-19 arrived. So now we thought we could do it over Zoom.” Nearly six months into the pandemic, there have still been no COVID-19 cases among Summit Vista residents and only two on staff. Both of those employees have recovered from the virus and are back to work. “We are still only allowing essential visitors inside our facilities, but back in June we began allowing friends and family members to safe-distance gather with our residents outside,” Braithwaite said. “We have a great patio area that is shady in the morning. We encourage people to wear masks but do not require it. During one recent visit, one of our resident’s relatives was playing bagpipes.” Wendel said she may even be able to find a couple of homes for animal shelter pets at the senior living community. “They have a very pet-friendly policy at Summit Vista,” she said. “We have discussed setting up pet adoptions for residents there. We may also create a seniors for seniors foster program, where older people take in an older dog or cat.” During the Zoom session Wendel reported, 68% of Utah households have a pet, while only 27% have children. Summit Vista officials say the first pet toy-making Zoom class was a hit, and they may hold future sessions—at least until they can again host weddings and school kids can return to making the items for dogs and cats. l
Pam Mullins was among the Summit Vista residents who learned, via Zoom, how to make dog and cat toys from recyclable materials. (Summit Vista)
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A Brave New World
Liffee Lauighter L AND
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Not necessarily known for our patience, Americans are suffering from COVID fatigue. People can’t wait for things to return to a “new normal” like suddenly everything’s going to be ice cream sundaes and furry kittens. The way 2020 is going, the new normal will probably be kitten sundaes and furry ice cream. Our world has changed, for better or worse, so now’s a good time to decide what we keep and what we toss. I’m all for tossing office jobs, dress pants and family reunions, while keeping pajamas-as-clothes, Uber Eats and virtual baby showers. Let’s look at how the new normal is evolving, shall we? Sports – Like a canary in a coal mine, team sports started up this summer with the hope of bringing entertainment to millions of sports-starved individuals, and millions of dollars to money-starved sports organizations. It’s been a bit Hunger Games-ish
as teams drop out once their players contract COVID. Who’d have thought activities that include spitting, shouting, sweating and grunting could easily spread viruses? School – Or as I like to call it, the Catch-22 Education Plan. Parents and teachers are negotiating this real-life version of Oregon Trail where one wrong move can end up with junior high students being eaten by cannibals in Donner Pass. (Not the worse thing.) Here’s an idea: make the best decision for your family without judging everyone else. Parenting – Let’s just agree that “screen time” rules have been suspended indefinitely, and it’s just fine if your toddler wears the same outfit for three days. Let’s also agree chicken nuggets are healthy, YouTube personalities are annoying, and everyone gets a blue ribbon for doing the best they can. Work – Every introvert’s birthday wish was granted when they were told to work from home.
Turns out, with these new-fangled computers, lots of stuff can be done at home. Who knew? Maybe companies don’t need 50,000 square feet of office and ping-pong space, or outdoor meditation biospheres. Date night – You’ve spent an inordinate amount of time with your significant other. You’ve worked from home together, prepared 5,459 meals together, rearranged closets, sock drawers and bathroom cabinets. Maybe the new normal will be individuals spending date night alone, so they don’t drive to the grocery store one day and end up with a new life in Cheyenne. Weddings – Can we please standardize virtual weddings? That is all. Holidays – Even with social distancing guidelines, summer holidays stayed the same as everyone went to national parks, held BBQs and spent the day sitting at the community pool with hundreds of other people. These holidays were
always followed by a COVID spike. I’m sure the fall/winter holidays will be no different because people are crappy at following CDC advisories. The 2020 Election – It’s been 28 years since the 2016 election and this year’s election has disaster written all over it. Literally. Will there be mail-in ballots? Russian interference? A loser who refuses to leave the White House? Civil war? The return of our alien overlords? All of the above? My best guess for election aftermath is equivalent to shaking a Magic 8 Ball, and then lighting it on fire. Mindset – Some people say COVID will help the world achieve a higher level of consciousness where people are more compassionate, kind understanding and . . . hahahaha . . . never mind. I don’t think we’re there yet. Time to go make a kitten sundae. l
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September 2020 | Page 23
Retirement Planning Seminar Š 2020 Wealth Management CPAs
Given the current political & economic environment, many Taylorsville residents are worried about their future. Two
FREE consultations & a personalized retirement plan with registration ($1,000 Value)
10 Reasons You Should Attend This FREE Seminar 1.
Learn how to protect your estate from longterm care expenses.
6.
Learn how to avoid being taxed on your social security benefits.
2.
Lessen the chance that you outlive your retirement income due to taxes or inflation.
7.
Discover the pitfalls of probate and the steps you can take to avoid it.
3.
Learn how to avoid being forced to sell your assets or surrender your money to Medicaid.
8.
Learn why a living trust may be more effective than a regular will and why you may need one.
4.
Learn how to receive long-term care benefits while remaining in your own home.
9.
Learn when you should not put your children on your bank accounts and property titles.
5.
Learn how to decrease the tax on your IRA or 401(k) for a more comfortable retirement.
10. Learn about best practices to investing and safe alternatives to the stock market.
Attend Sept.
16th
Robert J. Beck CPA
Monica Sonnier CFA
Elliot P. Smith JD, CPA
Sept.
or
17th
6:00 - 7:30 PM
6:00 - 7:30 PM
(Wed.)
(Thurs.)
9750 S 300 W Sandy, UT 84070
Room #220
FREE to the public | Seating is limited | Social distancing will be observed
Register Today! (801) CPA-HELP WealthCPAs.com (801) 272-4357 Investment Advisory Representative and advisory services offered through TownSquare Capital, LLC, an SEC Registered Investment Advisor 5314 River Run Drive, Provo, UT 84604. All named entities are unaffiliated.