January 2021 | Vol. 7 Iss. 01
FREE WEST VALLEY CITY MENTAL HEALTH COURT WORKS TO TURNAROUND LIVES By Darrell Kirby | d.kirby@mycityjournals.com
F
or the first time in a long time, Kody Rushton is happy. The 36-year-old West Valley City resident has a way to go to get his life exactly where he wants it, but right now it’s all about progress and he has made plenty of it so far. It was about a year ago that Rushton was arrested for domestic violence for punching a friend of his mother. “She got scared and called the cops on me. I knocked down her TV and broke a glass,” he said. He readily admits he threw the punch, but says he didn’t mean to connect with it. It was the second time he had a physical altercation with the same guy. Before that, Rushton did three terms in prison for crimes stemming from a methamphetamine addiction that started when he was 18. He could have had his case sent to justice or district court, pleaded or been found guilty, served his penalty, and gotten out to likely commit another crime. Especially with depression, anxiety and anger management issues that impacted his ability to make good decisions. Instead, Rushton had an offer from police, attorneys and West Valley City Justice Court Judge Clint Gilmore—go through Mental Health Court and try to get lasting, life-changing help. He accepted it.
Mental Health Court was launched in March 2018 as a special judicial process within the West Valley City Justice Court to provide intensive, court-supervised, mental-health treatment for offenders who commit misdemeanor-level crimes like drug possession and abuse, assault and domestic violence. It is a partnership between police, who have the first contact with the perpetrators, mental health professionals, and the court to help reduce recidivism, jail populations and, most importantly, get people help for the mental health problems that are often the root cause of their law breaking. “We needed some kind of avenue to assist individuals violating the law to find a resource to get treatment and help for their mental illness instead of sending them down the same cycle they’d been dealing with,” said Sgt. Scott Arnold, who oversees the West Valley City Police Department’s Crisis Intervention Team. They are still held accountable for the crimes they commit but at the same time “get help to become more productive members of society,” he said. About 25 to 30 people a year have their cases heard in Mental Health Court. Each one learns Three stints in prison, drug addiction, domestic violence incidents and mental health problems prompted and observes what the court is about and then deKody Rushton to enter West Valley City Mental Health Court to attempt to turn his life around. (Darrell cides if they want to participate or have their cas- Kirby/City Journals) Continued page 5
15 SAUCES OVER 50 FRESH INGREDIENTS NAAN PIZZA DOUGH MADE FRESH DAILY
$5 OFF $30 or more
Valid Monday-Thursday. Expires January 31, 2021. Any location. Cannot be combined with other offers.
2927 S 5600 W West Valley
801-890-0415
Local Postal Customer ECRWSS Scan Here: Interactive online edition with more photos.
125 N SR 24 Bicknell, UT
1086 W South Jordan Pkwy South Jordan
435-425-2500
801-302-0777
w w w. C u r r y P i z z a U t a h . c o m
Thank You
to our Community Sponsors for supporting City Journals
Presort Std U.S. Postage PAID Ogden, UT Permit #190
RETIREMENT SEMINAR Given the current economic & political climate, many people are worried about their future
10 Reasons You Should Attend This Complimentary Seminar Your Retirement.
1
Learn how to protect your estate from long-term care expenses
Your Terms.
2
Lessen the chance that you outlive your retirement income due to taxes or inflation
3
Learn how to avoid being forced to sell your assets or surrender your money to Medicaid
4
Learn how to receive long-term care benefits while remaining in your own home
5
Learn how to decrease the tax on your IRA or 401(k) for a more comfortable retirement
6
Learn how to avoid being taxed on your social security benefits
7
Discover the pitfalls of probate and the steps you can take to avoid it
8
Learn why a living trust may be more effective for you than a regular will, and why you may need one
9
Learn when you should not put your children on your bank accounts and property titles
Attend
January
20th 6 - 7:30PM Wednesday
or
January
21st 6 - 7:30PM Thursday
9750 S. 300 W. Building 1 Sandy UT 84070 Room 220
Learn about best practices to investing
10 and alternatives to the stock market
Robert J. Beck Brooke Gardner CPA Director of Operations
Elliot P. Smith JD, CPA
Register today! Visit WealthCPAs.com/Seminar or call (801) 797-2954 Two complimentary consultations & a personalized retirement plan with registration ($1,000 Value)
Advisory services are offered through Wealth Management CPAs, LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor in the state of Utah. Tax services offered through Wealth Management Tax Solutions, an affiliated company. Insurance products and services offered through Wealth Management Insurance Solutions, LLC, an affiliated company. Wealth Management CPAs, LLC, Wealth Management Tax Solutions and Wealth Management Insurance Solutions, LLC are not affiliated with or endorsed by the Social Security Administration or any government agency. Investment Advisory Representative and advisory services affiliated through Townsquare Capital, LLC, an SEC Registered Investment Advisor 5314 River Run Drive, Provo, UT 84604. All named entities are unaffiliated.
Page 2 | January 2021
West Valley City Journal
Making Oral Surgery Easy
Stephen J. Buhler Attorney at Law
Photo: Don Polo Photography
• Adoption • Estate Planning • Guardianship • Inheritance • Name Change • Probate • Trusts • Wills • Family Law
Dr. Dustin Hopkin and Staff
$100 Off
• Dental Implants • All-On-4 • Wisdom Teeth Removal
YOUR CONSULTATION
"Over 25 Years Helping People Like You."
(801) 277-3942
Call Attorney Steve Buhler at (801) 964-6901, or visit us at www.4utahlaw.com Many Cases Flat Fee First Visit Free Located in the Harmon Building - 3540 S. 4000 W. West Valley City
1377 E 3900 S #104 Salt Lake City, UT 84124 hopkinoralsurgery.com MOST INSURANCE ACCEPTED – FINANCING OPTIONS AVAILABLE
REAL. LOCAL. SAVINGS. See how much you could save on car insurance today.
801-262-5200
1399 W 9000 S, West Jordan Saving people money on more than just car insurance.® Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states or all GEICO companies. Motorcycle and ATV coverages are underwritten by GEICO Indemnity Company. Homeowners, renters and condo coverages are written through non-affiliated insurance companies and are secured through the GEICO Insurance Agency, Inc. Boat and PWC coverages are underwritten by GEICO Marine Insurance Company. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko image © 1999-2019. © 2019 GEICO
Wvc Journal .com
January 2021 | Page 3
Keeping Chesterfield unique, council passes new zone to preserve area By Travis Barton | travis.b@thecityjournals.com
J
ust a few days before Thanksgiving, one section of West Valley City got an early Christmas present. Chesterfield, located in the northeastern part of the city and known for its unique nature, was discussed at length in recent months as city officials aimed to preserve the unique standards of the area. On Nov. 24, West Valley City Council unanimously approved the creation of the Chesterfield Overlay Zone, that establishes development standards over the area. “We want to keep (Chesterfield) unique and special,” said Councilman Tom Huynh during a November study meeting. Huynh’s district includes the Chesterfield neighborhood. Councilman Jake Fitisemanu Jr. added “this is a neighborhood that needs to be preserved.” With the city running out of developable land, there is a substantial number of vacant or underdeveloped property in Chesterfield, an area known for its more agricultural feel with smaller and older homes. A feel that its residents want to keep. Prior to the vote, resident Chris Young said he didn’t want “cookie cutter” subdivisions, preferring to keep Chesterfield unique. While another resident, Monica Dixon, sent the city an email in October emphasizing they did not want sidewalks, curbs and gutters. “Sidewalks would be the beginning of the end for our lifestyle here,” Dixon wrote. “The magic of this place is seeing folks on horseback ride past my house on their way up to the Jordan River Parkway.” Dixon wrote that sidewalks would push riders into the road, creating hazards for drivers, riders and horses. She added horse manure decomposes on the dirt quickly and the dirt in front of their houses creates additional parking for guests. “PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE do not install sidewalks,” she wrote. “We don't want them. And we also do not want the increased property tax that would come with them.” After discussion by the council, both worries from the residents appear to be taken care of, to a point. Councilwoman Karen Lang’s suggestion that any new house built must have three different looking homes on the
Journals
The Chesterfield area features a variety of homes, some dating back to 1910 with only a few built in the past decade. (Courtesy West Valley City)
same side of the street before another house of the same kind can be built was approved by the council. In the previous ordinance, curb, gutter and sidewalk would have been required on all streets. But under the new overlay zone, certain streets would not require those infrastructural additions. Though current streets that don’t have them, would not be required to put them in. There are loca-
C I T Y
Y O U R C O M M U N I T Y N E W S PA P E R S
WEST VALLEY TEAM
The West Valley City Journal is a monthly publication distributed directly to residents via the USPS as well as locations throughout West Valley. For information about distribution please email brad.c@thecityjournals.com or call our offices. Rack locations are also available on our website. The views and opinions expressed in display advertisements do not necessarily reflect or represent the views and opinions held by Loyal Perch Media or the City Journals. This publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the express written consent of the owner. © 2019 Loyal Perch Media, Inc.
Page 4 | January 2021
WVCJOURNAL.COM
FACEBOOK.COM/ MYWESTVALLEY JOURNAL/
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Bryan Scott | bryan.s@thecityjournals.com
EDITOR
Travis Barton | travis.b@thecityjournals.com
DIRECTOR OF ADVERTISING
Ryan Casper | ryan.c@thecityjournals.com 801-254-5974
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
Keith Curtis| keith.c@thecityjournals.com Mieka Sawatzki | mieka.s@thecityjournals.com
TWITTER.COM/ WVALLEYJOURNAL
tions, such as Malvern Avenue off Redwood Road, where if a new home was built, would be required to add curb, gutter and sidewalk. This is due to the pedestrian overpass located right there to Redwood Elementary. Maximum height for any new homes is two stories and all new homes would be oriented toward the street. l
Connect social media
CIRCULATION COORDINATOR
Brad Casper | brad.c@thecityjournals.com 801-254-5974 | Rack locations are also available on our website.
EDITORIAL & AD DESIGN Ty Gorton Amanda Luker Wayland Holfeltz Stacy Bronson
INSTAGRAM.COM/ CITYJOURNALS
LINKEDIN.COM/ COMPANY/ CITY-JOURNALS
MISSION STATEMENT
Our mission is to inform and entertain our community while promoting a strong local economy via relevant content presented across a synergetic network of print and digital media.
PUBLISHER
Designed, Published, & Distributed by
WEST VALLEY CITY JOURNAL 9500 South 500 West, Suite 205 Sandy, UT 84070
PHONE: 801-254-5974
FREE | COMMUNITY | PAPERS
West Valley City Journal
Continued from front page es run through regular justice or district court. “They do have a choice,” Arnold said. Some individuals referred to Mental Health Court “decide they don’t want to conform to all the conditions of probation and they’d rather just take the fine or jail time and opt out of Mental Health Court and go through the normal process.” Arnold says patrol officers in the field can make a preliminary determination while on a call that a mental or psychological condition exists in the person they’re dealing with. That assessment is reviewed by Arnold and detectives in the police department who further decide if a person’s case would be better suited for Mental Health Court. Prosecutors, mental health professionals and the judge also have a say in the matter. As of early December, 13 people were having their cases adjudicated by the Mental Health Court, with a fairly even split of men and women, ranging from age 18 into their 50s and 60s. Arnold says two standards must be met for a defendant to be sent to Mental Health Court. First, there must be a qualifying misdemeanor offense. Second, the offender is diagnosed to have at least one of five conditions: psychosis, major depression, schizophrenia, and schizoaffective (schizophrenia combined with mood disorders like depression) and bipolar disorders. The person is evaluated by Salt Lake County Probation to gauge the likelihood that he or she will repeat their criminal behavior. The higher the risk, the greater the chance they can be referred to Mental Health Court rather than traditional court. “We’re taking more of the high-risk individuals into Mental Health Court because we feel there’s a greater need for them to get the proper treatment,” Arnold said. The person is required to participate in individual and group therapy at Cornerstone Counseling in South Salt Lake, a treatment center for mental illness, addiction and trauma run by the Utah chapter of Volunteers of America. The program helps move and keep people out of the crowded Salt Lake County Jail, but Arnold says it has a greater purpose. “We have to look at the underlying issues as to why they’re (in jail or court). In a lot of cases, it’s because they haven’t had access to treatment, medication, or mental health services.” Mental Health Court is not a one-strikeand-you’re-out proposition. Many people adhere to and complete the terms laid out by the court and their probation, but those who slip up can get another chance with the prospect lurking they could face stricter penalties if they mess up again. “There’s some teeth to the program,” Arnold said. Mental health calls to West Valley City police are sent to the department’s Crisis Intervention Team. The CIT is housed in the investigations division, which Arnold supervises. It has four mental health detectives and a social worker. Twelve patrol officers spread over
Wvc Journal .com
There is a genuine concern from everybody involved and they’re constantly looking for solutions to help these individuals be successful. It’s been eye-opening. Sgt. Scott Arnold
three daily shifts often take the initial calls and refer them, if needed, to detectives and a social worker for further investigation. Even if people aren’t committing crimes, the CIT can respond to mental health calls and direct them to appropriate treatment resources. Detective Ray Wilhelm joined the West Valley City Police Department not long before the Mental Health Court was started. He was ambivalent about the program and its potential for success when first told about it. Now he’s sold on it after conducting probation visits with offenders. “We address our clients’ needs well before it becomes a huge problem, before they catch felony charges, before they go to prison,” he said. For many of the offenders it’s their first time getting treatment for the mental health issues that underlie their illegal behavior. Wilhelm recalled a 22-year-old woman with mental problems who was arrested after spitting on officers at her house. She entered mental health court, got the help she needed, and completed her probation with flying colors. “I’ve never seen somebody go through their entire probation stint without a single violation. I was flabbergasted.” Accompanying detective Wilhelm on his probation visits is Tori Yeates, a licensed clinical social worker who works with West Valley City police under a contract with her employer, University Neuropsychiatric Institute at the University of Utah. “My role with that is mostly to observe what their home life is like,” she said. “How are they doing, how are they functioning, how supportive is the family?” Yeates compiles her observations and reports to the court and treatment providers. “Most of the people we’ve had in Mental Health Court have had pretty significant mental health issues.” She cited one example of a man whose violent behavior led to a number of run-ins with CIT officers. He began to turn things around when he was referred to Mental Health Court and started adhering to the requirements placed upon him, which included therapy and medication. “If we can get them to buy into all of that, they can actually do really, really well.” And if they stop buying in? “Sanctions might be something like writing an essay on why it’s important to stay on your meds or it could be jail” for severe violations, Yeates said. “We get really creative.” Arnold says the success rate of Mental Health Court is high, with a number of participants changing their ways. “We’ve seen them turn around, being able to get jobs, massive
improvement in their home and family life. We’ve had numerous individuals we were dealing with on a fairly regular basis that once they’ve come through the Mental Health Court we’ve had no further dealings with them.” Trust is built among offenders, police, and the mental health community. “It’s not this ‘us-versus-them’ situation,” Arnold said. “There is a genuine concern from everybody involved and they’re constantly looking for solutions to help these individuals be successful. It’s been eye-opening.” Mental Health Court is funded by West Valley City and has strong support from city leaders. “It has been very refreshing to have the police department and city administration be on board and recognize the need for this,” Arnold said. “They’re recognizing that law enforcement needs to be innovative and look for solutions to curtail some of these issues that maybe we haven’t looked at in the past.” There were about 350 other Mental Health Courts in the U.S. as of 2017, accord-
ing to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration in the Department of Health and Human Services. “In my opinion, it has seen a lot of success and return on investment,” Arnold said of the West Valley program. “We want to make sure you go on and live a very successful life without having to come back to court,” Yeates added. When probationers complete the program, they graduate. “It’s great to see the progress they make. You can see the change in their demeanor, attitude and outlook on life,” Arnold said. “Instead of just cycling in and out of jail over the same issues, they’re finally getting the help they need.” Rushton can attest to that. He has high praise for everyone with a hand in his case, but it is especially effusive for Cornerstone Counseling. “They’re everything to me,” he said. Besides individual and group therapy, the center provides and monitors his medications. “Now I’m staying away from prison, staying clean, and everything’s going good. I enjoy being sober.” With a growing self-esteem and confidence, he is scheduled to graduate Jan. 13 by presenting a two-page essay to the court on how his life has changed. “I’ll be totally done. I won’t have to contact the court and I won’t have to do UAs (urine tests).” He’ll then continue with after-care at Cornerstone Counseling, try to re-establish a relationship with his mom, and not look back at what was. l
Treating you like family for over 34 years. Happ New Y y ear!
-Personalized Service -Local Market knowledge -Top Quality representation Buying or selling a home should be a fun and pleasant experience. With 34 years of working throughout Utah, I can help you enjoy the journey of finding a new place to call home.
Joe Olschewski 801-573-5056
joeolschewski41@gmail.com
January 2021 | Page 5
Best photos of 2020: West Valley City
Lion dancers entertain the crowd at the grand opening Feb. 15 of Shao Long Chinese Martial Arts Academy in West Valley City. The training studio at 1906 W. 3500 South offers instruction in tai chi, kungfu and yoga. (Darrell Kirby/City Journals)
Left: Christian and Rebekah focus on their school work in the spring as schools were closed due to the COVID pandemic. (Kathryn Jones/City Journals) Right: As a freshman Quentin Meza was one of the leading scorers in the 6A classification. (Photo courtesy dsandersonpics.com)
Page 6 | January 2021
Top: Utah Grizzly forward Tim McGauley led the East Coast Hockey League with 42 assists. The Grizzlies earned the club’s top-winning percentage ever and was headed toward a playoff run when its season was canceled. (Photo courtesy Utah Grizzlies Hockey) Middle: The West Granite Quake, made up of girls from West Valley City and Tooele, celebrate their second place finish in the Utah Girls Tackle Football League. (Greg James/City Journals) Bottom: Fourth grade teacher at Diamond Ridge Elementary Lauren Szykula stands amidst confetti in her backyard as district officials came to present her with her Excel award. (Photo courtesy Granite School District)
West Valley City Journal
Left: Adele King receives a lunch at the Harman Senior Recreation Center in West Valley City. She and other older adults coped with the various ways COVID-19 restrictions limited activities and social interaction at the center. (Darrell Kirby/City Journals) Middle: Courtney Kelly raps her original song, “Lil Girl,” as the Granite School District co-hosted the third annual event with the theme “Still I Rise” based on Maya Angelou’s famous poem. (Jess Nielsen Beach/City Journals) Right: Kierra Kemp is one of four girls riding for the West Granite Composite Mountain Biking Team. She competes in the freshman girls division. (Photo courtesy of Melissa Davis)
Workers make the change official by changing the name from Westbrook Elementary in Taylorsville to West Lake STEM Junior High. The school relocated this year after the earthquake damaged the junior high. (Bill Hardesty/City Journals)
Following a rush to adopt and foster pets, this dog was one of the few remaining residents at the West Valley City Animal Shelter during the local peak of the coronavirus pandemic. (Darrell Kirby/City Journals)
West Valley City Police Forensics Director Amanda Bennett says the new lab, that came with the opening of the police department’s new building, has improved crime investigations. (Darrell Kirby/City Journals)
Left: Local West Valley runner Jill Wilkins admires the sunset after conquering Lake Blanche. (Photo courtesy Jill Wilkins) Right: Cyprus High teacher Alicia Johnson accepts her giant check being named one of Granite School District’s Excel award winners. Johnson jokingly thought about how she was going to cash the check before she got a real one. (Photo courtesy Granite School District)
Wvc Journal .com
January 2021 | Page 7
What’s your legacy?
The COVID-19 Impacted Businesses Grant Program, known as Shop In Utah, is a grant program to help support businesses and provide discounts to consumers. Participating Advertisers:
Serving Local Families Since 1885 COMPASSIONATE FUNERAL PLANNERS
During one of life’s most difficult moments, you deserve the utmost respect, kindness, care, and guidance. Six generations of Larkins have been devoted to serving Utah families in their time of need, and that unique experience enables us to guide you in preparing services for your loved one with consideration and respect. 4 LOCATIONS ACROSS THE WASATCH FRONT Larkin Mortuary 260 East South Temple Salt Lake City, UT 84111 (801) 363-5781
Larkin Sunset Lawn 2350 East 1300 South Salt Lake City, UT 84108 (801) 582-1582
Larkin Sunset Gardens 1950 East Dimple Dell Road (10600 S.) • Sandy, UT 84092 (801) 571-2771
Larkin Mortuary Riverton 3688 West 12600 South Riverton, UT 84065 (801) 254-4850
www.LarkinCares.com Page 8 | January 2021
Cooking with Sharon Great Harvest Kathmandu Flourish Bakery Legends Pub & Grill Penny Ann's Cafe O Crab Cajun Seafood & Bar Kao Thai Epic Fitness Robintino's Tokyo Teriyaki Panwok Tokai Sushi Lettuce & Ladles Elite Chiropractic Iceberg Hopkin Oral Surgery Alpha Coffee Grifols Casper's Ice Cream Please support these local businesses!
business.utah.gov/shop-in-utah-offers West Valley City Journal
*We are dedicated to ensuring your home is protected year round, which is why we offer a no-clog guarantee.* If your LeafGuard® gutter ever clogs, we will come out to clean at no cost to you. • One-Piece System • Protective Overhang/Trim
The permanent, clog free gutter solution!*
• ScratchGuard® Paint Finish
• Customization Options • Professional Installation`
385-300-0869 RECEIVE a $25 Lowe’s gift card with FREE in-home estimate!*
85% OFF Labor*
Does not include cost of material.
Bonus! Call during this program & receive a $200 Visa Gift Card with your LeafGuard purchase!* *Conditions and restrictions may apply. Call for details to learn more.
LeafGuard operates as LeafGuard of Utah in Utah under license number UT 11650889-5501
Guaranteed not to clog for as long as you own your home, or we will clean your gutters for free!
ROOFING Timeless Protection Guaranteed!
801-509-9007 LONGEVITY, DURABILITY, SAFETY, ENERGY EFFICIENCY, & ENVIRONMENTALLY-FRIENDLY ARCHITECTUAL AND DESIGN SUPPORT LIFE-TIME WARRANTY
Receive a $25 Lowe’s Gift Card w/ FREE in-home estimate!*
75% OFF LABOR DOES NOT INCLUDE COST OF MATERIAL.
*All participants who attend an estimated 60-90 minute -home product consultation will receive a $25 gift card. Retail value is $25.Offer sponsored by MetalMan Roofing. Limit one per household. Company procures, sells, and installs seamless gutter protection. This offer is valid for homeowners over 18 years of age. If married or involved with a life partner, both cohabitating persons must attend and complete presentation together. Participants must have a photo ID, be able to understand English, and be legally able to enter into a contract. The following persons are not eligible for this offer: employees of Company or affiliated companies or entities, their immediate family members, previous participants in a Company in-home consultation within the past 12 months and all current and former Company customers. Gift may not be extended, transferred, or substituted except that Company may substitute a gift of equal or greater value if it deems it necessary. Gift card will be mailed to the participant via first class United States Mail or e-mailed within 21 days of receipt of the promotion form. Not valid in conjunction with any other promotion or discount of any kind. Offer not sponsored or promoted by Lowe’s and is subject to change without notice prior to reservation. **MetalMan Roofing operates MetalMan Utah in Utah under license number 11980343-0151.
Wvc Journal .com
January 2021 | Page 9
Schools flip-flop learning methods to keep providing instruction to students By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com
“
I didn’t know what to expect,” recalled a Canyons School District parent after his first child’s school changed to virtual learning after positive COVID-19 cases reached a 1% limit for the school. “But it hasn’t been too bad,” continued Marc Hone, even as his three oldest children who attend three different schools all were learning online in late November, following health guidelines to temporarily close their schools. “We rely on Canvas (online learning platform), teacher emails and frequently look at the schools’ websites to ensure they’re getting their assignments done.” This has been a different experience from last spring when all schools were suddenly put on soft closure for the rest of the school year following Gov. Gary Herbert’s mandate in response to the pandemic. With four of his five kids then in school, it was a scramble to meet with teachers who held Zoom meetings at the same time and having limited devices, he said. “It was a disaster last March, just terrible. We were strapped to devices and it was too much screen time. Some classes, it was hard to get on the livestream,” he said. “Now teachers are better prepared, each student is given a Chromebook from school and we’re OK as long as the internet holds up.” A Granite School District parent, who only agreed to speak anonymously, said when her two high school students at the same school have flipped to virtual learning, each child has had different experiences.
For her freshman, there has been tears and stress keeping up with a 4.0 grade-point average, but her child has been able to do it. “She’ll work in front of the computer for six hours, take a break and then, do some more. I asked, ‘Aren’t you done?’ And she said, ‘Well, that was my schoolwork and now, I’m doing my homework.’ And she’ll be there for more hours. This is too much. I think that the quantity needs to be lessened, but the quality needs to remain,” she said. Her other high schooler, a 4.0 GPA junior, has seen a total disruption in academics, his mother said. “There’s been a lack of consistency with live instruction and support from some teachers,” she said. “He’s kind of crushed academically because of the stress and everything that goes with it. He’s not sure now that he wants to go to college; kids are starting to lose sight and lose hope. It’s proving to be really, really difficult.” Throughout Canyons, Granite, Jordan and Murray school districts, several schools, most commonly secondary schools, had transitioned to remote learning up to three times since school opened in August. Each time, in-person teachers flip-flopped their teaching platforms to online. Most districts are following Salt Lake County’s health guideline of closing schools for two weeks following an outbreak of 15 positive cases at the schools. Canyons Board of Education set a 1% positive case threshold to trigger a closure.
Many students and family fear the disruptions in education with inconsistent learning when students or teachers are in quarantine or isolation or when entire schools flip-flop.
Alta High senior Coleman Hone, who is also taking classes at Canyons Technical Education Center, said the uncertainty of his schedule has been hard. “I come home from my morning at CTEC to learn that Alta is online,” he said. “This isn’t what I’ve grown up with all my life. It’s just inconsistent learning and it throws me off.” His principal, Brian McGill, said it’s been challenging for his school community. “It’s really, really difficult on teachers and our kids,” he said. “Students need stability. Some kids quarantined one, two and three times in six weeks just by sitting next to kids who tested positive. It’s hard on kids to stay up on studies and hard on our teachers preparing for all eight classes online.” In the 12 weeks since school opened, Alta has flipped to virtual learning three times. “School became unmanageable with so many teachers and staff out. It became a challenge to find substitutes and run school,” McGill said, adding 80% of administrators’ time was contact tracing. Granger High also has flip-flopped three times. “While we are becoming more efficient in our use of technology in attempting to en-
Middle school student Jack Whitaker gets on Zoom to follow along with his Indian Hills teacher in what seemed to him as “non-stop Zoom meetings” during his online school day. (Photo courtesy of Karla-Ann Whitaker)
Page 10 | January 2021
gage students, it is still difficult,” Principal David Dunn said. “Establishing a set schedule for teaching and having students log on has been much more effective in getting students to engage. We set deadlines, but we work with students individually according to their needs.” However, he added, “First term, we did see an increase in students getting ‘F’ grades. A support system has been put into place to try and help those students get caught up.” Cottonwood High flip-flopped twice, sent teams to students’ homes to support students, and has seen improvement in student learning—after implementing ideas from other schools, including a set schedule. “We found that with our students, and it was toward the end of the first quarter, our participation was terrible,” Principal Terri Roylance said. “Kids just did not follow up at home. I ended up mailing all first quarter report cards home to the families with on the back side a little infographic and letter from me saying why did we fail so many kids and it’s because kids did not engage whatsoever. Not all, but many.” Brighton, like many schools when they flip, learned online teaching is more effective with a schedule. “The first time, we didn’t require synchronous learning, but instead, let student set their own pace,” Principal Tom Sherwood said. “We learned that they’d procrastinate through the roof, had other concerns at home which made it hard to focus, had troubles with bandwidth, and other issues. It sounded great, but it didn’t work out that way.” At Murray High, Principal Scott Wihongi said that transition to online learning needs to find a balance. “Teachers continue to explore how much is too much when it comes to fully online learning,” he said, adding that the school flipped to virtual twice before December. “They are finding that they have to scale back work a little more since it takes students longer to do it in the home setting.” Hillcrest High School math teacher Matt Snyder said that when his school flipped around Thanksgiving, they had a schedule for a sense of accountability. “Students need a structure to be successful; it improves productivity,” he said, adding that the last Wednesday online, only two of his 95 students during the day were absent— about the same as a winter day in a nonCOVID-19 year. “Students learn better with interaction. I usually greet students when they come into my classroom, so I make sure I do that when I see them log on. It adds some personality and helps them from feeling so isolated, but if someone were to come by my classroom and see me just talking without anyone here, they’d think I was crazy. It’s strange to be here all alone teaching.”
West Valley City Journal
The transition to virtual learning was not what Hillcrest sophomore Campbell Hone expected. “I thought I could sleep in, but there’s a schedule and a procedure to take attendance; I can’t wear PJs and we have to have our (Chromebook) camera on,” he said. “Even so, I don’t feel as connected to other students and my teachers; the class discussions online don’t give off the same intense learning vibe. I don’t want to miss out on my education, but it’s hard to sit in front of a screen.” While some students are self-motivated and disciplined to learn online, Murray’s Wihongi points out: “In-person learning is much preferable in many areas because of that direct support, connection and structure. Some students are clearly struggling without that.”
ings and teachers can only help so much when they’re there and I’m at home on my own,” he said, adding that he has asked for more explanation with math in an email or the next Zoom call, but then he’s also waiting for those to happen. “It’s definitely slowing down the progression of learning.” Indian Hills seventh-grader Addison Hone agrees: “I can’t stop by after school to ask a question to a teacher. I have to email or ask in a Zoom call and hope there’s not a glitch.” While she appreciates the efforts her teachers have made, Addison said, “It’s a lot harder to be interactive. They can’t see if your hand is up. It seems like there’s a lot more work with less instruction.”
“Students want to learn in school, have access to teachers and discussions face-toface with their classmates. Learning alone is not the same,” Brighton Principal Sherwood said. That’s what parent Karla-Ann Whitaker said about her son, Jack, who was learning online while Indian Hills Middle flipped in late November. “He misses his friends, flirting with girls and seeing his teachers,” she said. “It’s been a pain in the butt. We’ve had tech issues and called the school, we’ve needed different links to have him connect with his classes, his grades have declined. He needs to be self-motivated and stay off his phone, but it’s hard. I know teachers are trying and we need to do what is safe, but it’s a tough adjustment.” She said that as a single mother who is working and going to school full-time herself, she relies on him to watch his younger siblings, and that isn’t always taken into account with how much longer it takes to do homework online. Jack supports his mother’s assessment. “It’s terrible; it’s non-stop Zoom meet-
engage,” Mountain Creek Middle School Assistant Principal Tim Brooks said. “We are not sure where students are, what they’re doing, what’s going on, and we can’t see their expressions as teachers walk the aisles. We try to overcome that with having cameras on, but it’s still hard. We don’t have the same assemblies and talent shows; teachers can’t give them high-fives. It’s like giving kids a Snickers and saying eat it, but you can’t take off the wrapper. We’ve all been learning to be more appreciative, become more patient, get creative and have humor during this time.” Brighton’s Sherwood agrees: “What’s missing is all that makes high school fun and draws kids in—after-school socials and clubs, wearing school colors to football games, belonging to a school community and buying in to that culture.” At Alta, McGill said keeping students and staff motivated has been challenging. “The magic and beauty of what a comprehensive high school can bring is taking a hit,” he said. “It is also heartbreaking when students practice and rehearse for upcoming performances, only to find out that they are postponed or canceled.”
Engagement and a sense of belonging is Administrators and parents say stu- what is missing this year, administrators dents are missing education in a social said. environment. “It’s hard when we’re not in-person to
Bingham High’s foyer was empty in mid-November as students were dismissed in an effort to reduce transmission of COVID-19. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Murray’s Wihongi agrees the school year looks different. “Missing this year is the overall energy and spirit normally associated with our high schools. Our classrooms and hallways are less busy; our activities and assemblies can’t move forward as normal, so it definitely takes the wind out of the sails, so to speak,” he said.
Teachers and administrators are finding positive outcomes to the changes of education this year.
In the classroom, Hillcrest’s Snyder said students are communicating better. “There’s been phenomenal eye contact with me as masks are forcing eye contact—and better communication. They say what they need to say. Students following the
health guidelines and mask mandates has exceeded my expectations. They’re treating me and others around them who may be terrified to be here with care and respect,” he said. Murray High’s Wihongi looks to the future of education. “Our method of curriculum delivery and access will be a huge silver lining to this. We’ll have more options for students to access their education and all of our teachers will be able to blend online and in-person instruction much more proficiently,” he said, adding that, “Snow days will become online learning days. But what remains clear, though, is that in-person learning is the most effective method of learning, hands down.” l
www.schc.net West Vally City
Salt Lake City
3448 S 3200 W
660 S 200 E Suite 250
Wvc Journal .com
Salt Lake City
(Pamela’s Place)
525 W 500 S
(801) 359-2256 January 2021 | Page 11
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
Medallus Medical
Business Spotlights are a service offered to our advertisers to help them inform our readers about their businesses. For information on scheduling a Spotlight, please call us at 801-254-5974 or email us at ryan.c@thecityjournals.com
A health plan membership that doesn’t break the bank Medallus Medical is changing the world of healthcare by serving as an intermediary care option to save consumers money whose insurance plan requires meeting a high deductible and/or expensive copays to access everyday medical care. Alternatively, Medallus provides the public access to medical professionals at a price they can afford. “The government isn’t helping and only makes it worse so it’s time we take the matter into our own hands and fix this crisis together with our doctors,” Medallus shares in an informational video. Saving insurance coverage for medical emergencies, Medallus uses a monthly membership model rather than deductibles, co-insurance or variable copays. Individuals pay $50 a month while family plans go for $100120 monthly, and $10 per visit no matter the procedure or test there are no added costs. “Where else can you get two hours of excellent care, two bags of IV fluids, Zofran and Torodol and discounted blood labs for $10?” said Medallus Medical member Teresa Prater. Though not an insurance plan replacement, Medallus does save patient’s money for the majority of their medical needs. Medallus’ goal is to get rid of the financial obstacle to
medical care. “I can’t say enough about what a blessing to our family it is, to have found Medallus. We are self-employed and pay about $1,600 [every month] for a $5,000 deductible health insurance policy. We have a family membership with Medallus and use them for literally everything. In the last few months, we’ve been seen for a sprained ankle, sinus infection, accidental essential oil spill in the eyes, and the stomach flu…,” Prater said. After an initial $20 registration fee and a 12-month contract, Utahns are ready to know exactly what their appointment will cost before they even walk into their doctor’s office. But affordability isn’t the only thing bringing people into Medallus’ nine urgent and primary care clinics, quality of care also recommends Medallus. “We just wanted to say thank you so much for going the extra mile the other day when we stopped in. I know you probably didn’t think much of it but for me, as a mom, it meant a ton that you called your other location and connected us with another amazing doctor. It saved me the worry and hassle of trying to do it all on my own with an upset little boy, so thank you!” one patient wrote of Medallus. Medallus isn’t just for personal use; businesses can set their employees up with
their own affordable care. Not too far off from the individual plans, companies pay $45 per employee per month to give their team $10 visits, anytime over the phone medical
advice, access to all of the Medallus facilities and other Utah clinics. It’s all summed up on their own front door, “Get well. Stay healthy for less.”
ON-LINE Tickets On Sale Now LEARN MORE AT BRIGHTONRESORT.COM Page 12 | January 2021
West Valley City Journal
SPRING AIR DUCT CLEANING SPECIALS
AIR DUCT CLEANING CORONAVIRUS CONCERNS?
UV Purifier & Reme Halo Can Reduce Your Risk of Infection! Ask for Details*
$49
CLEAN OUT SPECIAL Sinus Problems? Allergies? Asthma? Headaches? Excessive Dust? High Energy Bills? Bad Odors?
If it’s in your ducts, it’s in your lungs. Air duct cleaning is one of the best ways to fight symptoms of asthma and allergies. WE CAN SANITIZE YOUR VENTS TO HELP STRENGTHEN YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM
10 VENTS 1 RETURN 1 MAIN
FREE system analysis/inspection. Call for details. Additional vents priced separately. We service all areas. Offer expires 1/31/2021.
50% OFF
FREE
DRYER VENT CLEANING Helps Support a Healthy Immune System
Wvc Journal .com
HOSPITAL GRADE SANITIZER
WITH ANY COMPLETE AIR DUCT SYSTEM CLEANING. CALL FOR DETAILS. Offer expires 1/31/2021
Helps with germs & bacteria. With purchase of complete ductwork cleaning. Offer expires 1/31/2021
We Will Beat Any Price With Superior Quality 100% Guarantee
801-618-4649
SERVICE
theapexcleanair.com January 2021 | Page 13
Adaptation is key to students’ success in 2020 and beyond By Bill Hardesty | b.hardesty@mycityjournals.com
O
dents are involved in the Chinese immersion program with high parental involvement. I see other teachers struggling much more.”
n March 13, 2020, a decision by Utah Gov. Gary Herbert started a ball rolling that affected learning in 2020 for students, their families, teachers, staff and district staff. The shutdown he announced was only to last two weeks. The two weeks turned into eight weeks or more. After a summer of preparation by the Granite School District (GSD), a new school year started with students in the classroom for four days a week. Friday is teacher prep day and student online day. It didn’t take long until schools, mostly high schools and middle/junior high schools, reached the limit of 15 COVID-19 cases and were shutting down for deep cleaning and forcing all students and teachers back into an online environment. The Salt Lake Tribune reported on Nov. 29, 2020 that “at least 72 schools in Utah have had COVID-19 outbreaks and shifted to fully or partially online in response.” Since March, students, families, teachers and districts have had to adapt, often quickly. How has this changing landscape changed learning in 2020?
Teachers
Students
“The problem is that with the switch to distance [learning] last spring and the back and forth this year, we have many students failing. And the mental issues are real, lots of depression and loneliness going on. We are focusing on putting services in place to fill these gaps,” said Sharla Bynum, Gear Up coordinator at Cottonwood High School. Among the services are additional virtual homework help provided by teachers. Promise SSL offers homework help at the Best Buy Promise SSL Teen Tech Center. Also, the Salt Lake County Library System provides homework help with live tutoring from Brainfuse. Among the services of Brainfuse, a national education organization, are real-time tutors. The library also offers at-home science experiments, math help, and ideas for physical education. American education is interaction focused—interactions between students, interactions between student and teacher, interactions between students, parents and teachers. This year, such interactions are complicated. In most cases, students sit further apart than usual. Often, they are behind clear plastic desk dividers. In elementary schools, students are assigned a place to sit for lunch, which is the only time they can take off their masks. Assemblies are held virtually as students are in class, which makes it hard on the cheer squad. Beyond the academics is a lack of informal interactions. Humans are social animals, especially teenagers. “Even at school, I feel isolated,” a Taylorsville high school student said. Another student waited for weeks to try out for the varsity basketball team. The tryouts kept getting moved because of a school shutdown or the governor’s ban on after-school activities.
Page 14 | January 2021
In 2020, classroom instruction was on and off. (Bill Hardesty/City Journals)
Rite of passage events such as Junior Prom or Homecoming dance were canceled or held unofficially by parents, with its own set of concerns. Yearbook Day was quite different since students couldn’t hang out in the halls writing, “Have a fun summer” or “See you in September.” Drama students’ dreams of singing and acting on the big stage weren’t realized last spring, and guidelines for this year continue to unfold. “The students, by and large, do not like virtual learning,” said a high school teacher from South Salt Lake City. “They miss being with their friends and participating in all the activities that have been canceled or altered due to COVID. Students are not allowed to attend sporting events, choir concerts and assemblies are virtual, and I project them to a single class period in my room. It’s not the same. Most have resigned themselves to the fact that this is the way it is until this thing is over, but they are not happy about it.”
Families
Childcare issues have the most impact on families. School provides a safe, supervised environment for children and youth. However, when schools shut down entirely like last March, parents had to find alternatives. Some worked from home. Some took time off as they could. Others quit their jobs. Even when schools opened in August, Friday was still an issue. Traditionally, Fridays were a short day, but now parents must find all-day childcare because students are home.
Utah Education Association (UEA) recently surveyed teachers and found that 88% feel “overwhelmed” and “stressed.” UEA received more than 300 pages of comments that they are analyzing now. Summarizing his experience, the SSL teacher said, “It’s stressful, especially since we are usually told what to expect at the last minute, but it’s 2020, and we just have to roll with it.” In March, teachers had a few days to adjust to a different teaching environment. In a classroom setting, teachers can see students’ expressions to know if they are understanding the concepts. Teachers do their best explaining concepts with asynchronous online, but in a real sense, a teacher puts the training together and throws it over the wall hoping students get it. “I just don’t know my online students as well as those in my classroom,” Harker said. The SSL teacher spoke about problems last spring, such as not taking attendance or having due dates on assignments. He said the result was “only a few high-achieving students came to our virtual meetings,” and no due dates “led to a lot of procrastination.” He reported, “This year, during our second round of shutdown, the district fixed these issues, and I was allowed to take attendance, so I had much higher participation in my virtual sessions. The students all agreed that they liked it a lot better. I feel like my students ended last year behind but are on track this year with what they need to know.” At school, students see plastic partitions and directional arrows everywhere. Plastic partitions are in the office, counselors’ office, and maybe around the teacher’s desk or their desk. Students can walk only one way down hallways. Everyone is wearing a mask. Teachers can take them off while teaching word pronunciation. “Teachers are working hard to make sure all students have access to quality instruction each day,” Granite Park Junior High School Principal Chris Griffiths said. “To help teachers manage the implementation of both learning modalities, teachers have more planning time on Fridays which are now distance learning days for all students. This gives teachers opportunities to plan and work with students individually that need extra help. Our teachers are working so hard, and I am so proud of their dedication to our students.” “We love our teachers and how they help our children see their full potential and how they have made it enjoyable through these circumstances,” Rogers said.
Added to this is the potential problem that parents often have 24 hours or less to find childcare when they receive notice from the school that their child must quarantine for two weeks or that the school must shut down for deep cleaning. “Since school started, each child has had at least two weeks of online learning,” said Meredith Harker, mother of three school-aged sons. “I am most concerned when my sixth grader had to stay home alone. The rest of us had to go to school and work. I don’t know how parents do it with younger children.” Another issue is how children adapted to an asynchronous online environment. Asynchronous allows students to go online at their choosing, but it can also lead to procrastination. The ability to adjust is as different as each student. A socially-oriented student might get easily distracted by social media. Other students miss the interaction with teachers. Others don’t feel as challenged online. Makell Rogers, a mother of four, said her kids improved with the return of a routine—having four school days and one online. “The one day at home is still sometimes challenging for one or two of them, but most of them enjoy being able to get their schoolwork done earlier in the morning to have more time to play,” Rogers said. “Parental involvement is key,” said District Earlier this year, GSD reported that Harker, who is also a third-grade teacher at Calvin Smith. “I am lucky because my stu- nearly 40% of students did not sign on, or
West Valley City Journal
This school year, COVID-19 hasn’t closed Granite Park Junior High School. (Bill Hardesty/City Journals)
they only signed on once between March and the end of the school year. This year, “Much better…around 4% of distance learners are not engaging,” Ben Horsley, director of Communications and Community Outreach for GSD. Speaking about schools shutting down this year, Horsley said, “It is challenging, but not unforeseen. We knew when putting our plans together back in July that these dismissals would occur, which is why we are one of the few districts that required our teachers to do both in-person and distance instruction. This makes the transition between these dismissals much easier for students and staff.” One of the issues the district has worked to resolve is the digital divide. GSD purchased Chromebooks for each student. “Each Granite Park student, both faceto-face learners and distance learners, have been given a Chromebook to use this year. Our students have done an amazing job of coming to school prepared each day with their Chromebooks. Many families have been given a hotspot as well to help with internet needs,” Griffiths said. Horsley mentioned that while they have provided many mobile hotspots, there are still more available. When asked to describe learning in 2020, Horsley replied, “Unique and will shape instruction for the next 20 years. Distance learning will become part of our services as there will invariably be families who need this type of instruction for many Plastic barriers are everywhere in 2020. (Bill Hardesty/City Journals) years to come.” l
Wvc Journal .com
Take the ElevateHERTM Challenge
Are you a business leader? At no cost, the ElevateHERTM Challenge is easy to accept and will benefit your company.
Join businesses across Utah in our mission to elevate the stature of women’s leadership. Take the ElevateHERTM Challenge and stand with other businesses as we pledge to elevate women in senior leadership positions, in boardrooms, on management teams and on politcal ballots.
LEARN MORE: www.WLIUT.com/challenge
January 2021 | Page 15
It’s a wrap, the 2020 West Valley sports year in review By Greg James | g.james@mycityjournals.com
T
he 2020 sports year has been filled with cancellations, postponements and unforgettable individual performances. As 2021 begins here is a look back on the year that was.
January
The Cyprus High School boys basketball team finished the year with a 7-3 region record, tied for second place. Quentin Meza led the team in scoring with nearly 18 points per game. The Hunter’s girls captured the Region 2 basketball title. They finished with a 9-1 record. Angel Lui led the team in scoring while Nevaeh Brown snagged the most rebounds. Hunter lost in the second round of the state tournament to Skyridge 53-42.
Feb. 12
Park Beeler from Granger High School finished fourth at the 6A state wrestling meet. He competed at 160 pounds and completed the year with a 39-5 record. Granger won its third straight region wrestling title.
Feb. 14
Sohnnie Wesemann from Cyprus High School placed third in the boys 100-yard breaststroke at the state swim meet. Hunter’s Angel Nunez-Ianza placed fifth in the boys 50 free and 100 backstroke.
March 11
The Utah Jazz game against the Oklahoma City Thunder was postponed after Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert tested positive for COVID-19 and the NBA suspended the remainder of the season. Subsequently, two days later Utah Gov. Gary Herbert declared a state of emergency and closed in-person school. The Utah High School Activities Association paused all interscholastic sporting activities. The National Hockey League and Major League Baseball followed suit and paused their seasons as the NBA had. The NCAA canceled its men’s and women’s Final Four basketball tournaments. The Salt Lake City Stars stood atop the NBA G-League Western Conference standings when the season was paused. They had a 30-12 record and had managed to attain the most wins in team history. The club was poised to appear in the playoffs for the second straight season. In June, when the season was canceled, head coach Martin Schiller was named Western Conference coach of the year. Bart Taylor was named executive of the year and Jarell Brantley earned a spot on the league’s all-rookie team. At its cancellation point, the Utah Grizzlies were poised to qualify for the playoffs for the 12th time in the last 13 seasons. Their
GET A CASH OFFER FOR YOUR HOME IN 10 MINUTES!
The Utah Grizzlies finished the abbreviated 2019-20 season with the best record in franchise history. (Photo courtesy of the Utah Grizzlies)
.637 winning percentage was the best in fran- May chise history. Ty Lewis led the team with 25 National sporting events were canceled goals. or postponed. The Indianapolis 500 and April 14 Kentucky Derby normally held in May were The Utah High School Activities As- postponed until later in the year. sociation officially cancels the spring sports June 26 season after a month-long hiatus. After parThe West Granite Quake girls tackent protests, they reaffirmed the decision in le football team lost 12-0 in the girls high May. Several spring sports teams played only school division 2 championship. The team a few games before the season was canceled. made up of girls primarily from West Valley
Tree Trimming & remOval • Stump Grinding • 24/7 Emergency Services • Powerline Trimming • Land Clearing • Demolition Options Available • Organic Mulch Products • Delivery Available
CLOSE IN SEVEN DAYS OR LESS!
Now HiriNg!
$35-$80K+ Full benefits & bonuses!
We pay cash! Take care of closing costs! Assist with anything you may need!
SELL YOUR HOUSE FOR CASH NOW!
Mention this ad for
✓ Absolutely no closing costs ✓ No hidden fees ✓ No commissions ✓ No repairs or cleaning needed ✓ We work with any situation ✓ Foreclosures, divorce, financial struggles, etc. ✓ Structural damage, unfinished interior, any situation
JHBUTAH.COM • 801-921-8651 Page 16 | January 2021
Call 801-262-1596 or email Trent@diamondtreeexperts.com
30% OFF Tree Services Expires 1/31/2021
Contact us today at
801-938-4345
DiamondTreeExperts.com
West Valley City Journal
and Tooele finished the season undefeated. The league included teams representing 17 high schools across the state. “Girls are out here breaking barriers,” Quake assistant coach Crys Sacco said. “They want to play football.” In November, Sarah Fuller from Vanderbilt became the first woman to play in a power five conference college football game.
July 24-30
er this season for its only two victories.
Sept. 1
The Utah Jazz were eliminated from the NBA playoffs with a game seven loss to the Denver Nuggets, 80-78. The Jazz led the Nuggets three games to one before eventually falling. They finished the regular season sixth in the Western Conference with a 44-28 record.
Sept. 7
MLB, NHL and NBA seasons restart in Brigham Young University kicked off varying manners. The NBA chose to play its its football season with a 55-3 victory over games in a bubble in Orlando, Florida. Navy. The Cougars were ranked as high as Aug. 5 13th by the College Football Playoff ComFormer Olympic speed skater and SLCC mittee and quarterback Zack Wilson has baseball player Eddy Alvarez made his ma- received recognition as a possible Heisman jor league debut for the Miami Marlins. He Trophy candidate. collected his first hit four days later against Oct. 1 The Hunter girls soccer team lost to Kethe Mets. Aug. 11 arns 1-0 in an attempt to win its third straight The Pac-12 conference canceled all fall region title. The Wolverines eventually lost sports amid the pandemic. It later reversed its in the first round of the state playoffs. Senior decision. The University of Utah had its first Olivia Harding led the team in scoring with two football games canceled. 18 goals.
Aug. 21
Cyprus High School cancels its football against Ridgeline because two players tested positive for COVID. In all, the Pirates had six players opt-out of participating before the season began. “We have really focused on making sure our kids and coaches are safe,” Pirates head coach Tyler Garcia said before the season. The Pirates beat Taylorsville and Grang-
The West Granite Quake girls football team took second place in the high school division 2. (Greg James/City Journals)
nized the Pirates team. They found coaches and started recruiting players. Upwards of 15 kids have participated and Goodick hopes this leads to fielding a team for the spring Oct. 11 season. The Los Angeles Lakers won the NBA “I want to support my kids. It is a heavy championship over the Miami Heat four lift, but it could be good for the community,” games to two. Giannis Antetokounmpo of the he said. Milwaukee Bucks was named the league’s Oct. 26 most valuable player. The Los Angeles Dodgers won the World Oct. 23 Series four games to two over the Tampa Bay Cyprus holds its first official lacrosse Rays. Dodgers third baseman Justin Turner practice. In an attempt to gauge interest, was removed mid-game of the final because Robert Goodick and a team of parents orga- of a positive COVID test. After the game he
returned to the field for pictures and the trophy presentation causing extreme concern over his unwillingness to shelter away from his teammates.
Nov. 9
The Governor again paused all high school athletics for two weeks. Winter sports tryouts were pushed back to Nov. 24.
Dec. 11
The Utah Grizzlies begin their 2020-21 season in Grand Rapids. Their first home was scheduled for Dec. 18 (after press deadline). l
MATTRESS SALE Twin Mattresses
99
$
Normally $149.
UTAH MATTRESS STORE 9500 S. 500 W. • Suite 105 • Sandy, Utah 385-332-8353 • www.utahmattressco.com
By Appointment Only. Please call to schedule an appointment. Special price is good through December 31st.
Wvc Journal .com
January 2021 | Page 17
Pandemic Pregnancy by Alison Brimley | a.brimley@mycityjournals.com
I
n September 2020, West Jordan native Shaylynne Troester was days away from delivering her first child. The second grade teacher had taken two weeks off work at the recommendation of her doctor. At her 39 week appointment, she made the choice to be induced. Hospital policy required mothers to be tested for COVID-19 before arriving at the hospital for induction, and Troester was scheduled for induction on a Tuesday. She received her test the previous Thursday, fully expecting it to come back negative. Instead, a few days later, the health department notified her that she was COVID positive. “If I’d waited to go into labor I wouldn’t have known,” Troester said. “I had no symptoms; I felt completely fine. It was a shock.” It was frustrating, too: she was asymptomatic and yet had to planned for a labor that would look very different from what she had envisioned. “It was our first baby; we had no idea what we were doing,” she said. “I felt physically fine, but it was a lot to process.” “I don’t know what to expect” Berkley Meisenbacher of Midvale is expecting her first baby in May. She works as a medical surgical nurse at Jordan Valley Medical Center West Valley, wears protective equipment at work and said most patients are tested for COVID before being sent into surgery. But there have been a few patients that have “slipped by,” and aren’t tested until after she’s seen them. Before finding out she was pregnant in September, Meisenbacher wasn’t too concerned about getting COVID, because her sister contracted it and recovered fully. But “now that I’m pregnant,” she said, “the thought of getting COVID is very frightening to me. I don’t know what to expect because there is so little research done about COVID because it’s so new.” There are many unknowns about the risks COVID-19 poses to pregnant women. Of the information we do have, much is positive. It seems there is little risk of a COVID-positive mother transmitting the virus to her baby, and those babies who do contract it after birth tend to recover well. “The best data suggests that in-utero transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 virus is rare, but possible,” said Dr. Erin Clark, an associate professor of obstetrics and gynecology at University of Utah. Unlike a virus like Zika, the novel coronavirus likely does not pose unique risks to unborn babies; that is, “it does not appear to cause birth defects or miscarriage.” Instead, the threat of COVID-19 to pregnant women is that it magnifies already existing risks. “The most recent U.S. data shows that women who are pregnant are
Page 18 | January 2021
about three times more likely to be admitted to the ICU and to require a ventilator compared to similar women who are not pregnant,” Dr. Clark said. “Pregnant women are also about 70% more likely to die of COVID-19.” Pregnant women with other health issues are at even higher risk. When it comes to women of color, the numbers are even more alarming. Almost all non-white groups in the U.S. face a disproportionate risk of contracting COVID-19 and a disproportionate risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. Compounded, these numbers paint a dismal picture. Still, absolute risk to pregnant women remains low. And given the short time frame researchers have had to gather data, studies’ sample sizes are simply not large enough to paint an accurate picture of the likelihood of severe COVID-related illness during pregnancy. Despite her diagnosis, Shaylynne Troester delivered her baby without complications. She credits the staff at Jordan Valley hospital for helping her remain calm. Each nurse that entered her room wore full protective gear, and staff tried to limit the number of times they entered the room during labor. But her husband was allowed to be with her, even without a COVID test, and he could come and go freely. In the end, she feels her delivery “wasn’t all that different from normal.” There was just one sign that the novel coronavirus had entered her body: blood clots in the placenta. Both pregnancy and COVID-19 individually increase a person’s risk of blood clots; together the risk is even higher. Troester’s doctor mentioned this at her 32-week appointment and told her if she ever were to test positive, she would be closely monitored and put on blood thinners. “I feel like my doctor was on top of it compared to some of the other doctors I have heard about,” Troester said. “Typically, if you are diagnosed with COVID, they put you on blood thinners right away. A lot of doctors are not following that. Some say it’s not proven.” When Camille Wright of Draper contracted COVID in her first trimester of pregnancy this August, she received a 14-day course of blood thinners. She was also told that because of the risk of clots, she would not be allowed to carry past 39 weeks. That was OK with her. Though Wright has fully recovered, her case was not asymptomatic. She found out she was pregnant on a Friday at the beginning of August; that Sunday she was scheduled to leave for a family reunion in Idaho. The Wrights—Camille; her husband, Jonathan; and two children—hadn’t seen any
After delivering her baby while COVID positive in September, second-grade teacher Shaylynne Troester says it’s the return to normal life that stresses her most. “Are we going to be in school next week?” she wonders. “Will I have to quarantine again? The unknown of what it’s going to look like in a week—that’s my biggest concern.” (Photo courtesy Shaylynne Troester)
family since December. The reunion was “well done,” she said, held in an old campus dormitory. Every family had its own lodging and bathroom. Indoors, everyone wore masks; all meals were eaten outside. No one was allowed within 6 feet of Camille’s grandparents. “We had a great time,” she said. But the day before reunion ended, one cousin came down with a headache. The next morning, as everyone was packing to leave, he couldn’t taste anything. The Wrights were supposed to spend more time in Idaho but instead went home. A week later, everyone in her household had tested positive for COVID-19. Wright said she got it the worst and describes her husband as having “a head cold,” while her 3- and 1-year-old children had “runny noses for maybe an hour.” Within a week, she had learned both
that she was pregnant and COVID-positive. And though she felt unwell, it wasn’t always possible to know whether her symptoms— nausea, intense headache and fatigue—could be attributed to COVID or early pregnancy. “I always get pretty sick with pregnancy,” she said. But this time, she spent “six days in bed. I have never done that in my life.” Wright never felt so sick that she was truly alarmed. She hadn’t even had a prenatal appointment yet but called her doctor and was prescribed blood thinners. At her 12week appointment, she learned more about the pandemic-era policies: that she wouldn’t carry past 39 weeks, an extra ultrasound would be done at 32 weeks and at 35 weeks they would begin stress tests. “Most of these are preventive, because they don’t really know,” Wright said. Recently she heard of a study underway in Utah to investigate whether COVID pa-
West Valley City Journal
Emergency Water Storage Made Simple 160 Gallons Dimensions: 29”x36”x45” Large Cap For Easy Filling Stackable to Save Space FDA Food Grade Materials BPA FREE
BLUE 160 GALLON
WATER STORAGE TANK
The uncertainty of the pandemic and financial crisis has experts predicting a “baby bust” this year: a decrease of 10 to 15% in the number of babies born in 2021. (Photo by Heather Mount)
tients without symptoms severe enough for hospitalization would benefit from taking common medications to reduce the risk of blood clots. “I’m so glad I was on [blood thinners],” she said. “But I wonder, ‘Would it have been good for my husband to be on them? My kids?’” A “baby bust” Unsurprisingly, the uncertainties associated with the pandemic—and accompanying financial crisis—has experts predicting a serious decline in births in the coming year. A November article in “The Atlantic” proclaimed “Here Comes the COVID-19 Baby Bust” and cited economists who predicted 300,000 to 500,000 fewer births in 2021. But should prospective parents allow the risks of COVID to determine their family planning? “My job revolves around talking to women about potential pregnancy risks, which exist for every pregnancy, regardless of circumstances,” Dr. Erin Clark said. “I describe all pregnancies as a ‘leap of faith,’ since even with the recommended cautious optimism nobody knows with certainty how things will turnout. ‘The leap’ just feels a bit wider during the current pandemic.” Berkley Meisenbacher said that despite the unknowns, now felt like the right time for her and her husband to start their family. “We both realize that this pandemic isn’t going to last forever,” she said. “What’s most important to us is family, and even though I’m pregnant during a pandemic, we are thrilled to be having a baby.” COVID-19 didn’t strongly influence Camille Wright’s decision to get pregnant either. “Before pregnancy, I scanned [the research] a little bit,” said Wright, who is also trained as a nurse, but she didn’t worry too much because she knew there wasn’t a lot of data. After her diagnosis, she started digging into the data more and became more worried. “I began to have thoughts of, ‘Oh no, what did I just do? Was I irresponsible?’”
Wvc Journal .com
But her doctor put her at ease, telling her, “You can’t put your life on hold.” Ever since her 20-week ultrasound, where the baby was found to be growing normally, she’s felt at ease. Vaccine concerns While a vaccine promises to soon help the world regain some normalcy, some women may have concerns about receiving a vaccine whose safety data is lacking when it comes to pregnancy. “While pregnant women are at higher risk for severe COVID-19, pregnant women have unfortunately not been included in the current vaccine trials,” Clark said. “The theoretic risk from vaccination is low and the potential benefit is high, but pregnancy data is desperately needed.” Though she’s not on the frontlines, Meisenbacher may be ahead of the general public in line to receive a COVID vaccine because of her job. “I think before I decide to get it, I would do my own research to see if there are any rules or regulations about pregnant women receiving the vaccine,” she said. “It would make sense to give pregnant people the vaccine first because they are high risk, however because we don’t really know the effects of course there’s going to be some cautionary guidelines.” Today, Troester and Wright are fully recovered. Troester’s baby never did test positive or show any symptoms of COVID-19, and eventually both her mother and motherin-law were able to come help her during the early postpartum weeks. She wore a mask for the first few days with her baby but didn’t let her diagnosis stop her from breastfeeding and doing skin-to-skin time. “Babies are faring so well,” she said. “That’s the greatest blessing of COVID.” Her advice? “I just would say if you are pregnant and you think you do have COVID, just get tested,” said Troester. “I had no symptoms, but I could have thrown a blood clot, and we both could have died.” lw
retail $495
NOW ONLY
$
370
25% OFF
MADE IN UTAH – Support Local!
385-393-1566
UTAHWATERVAULT.COM
Roundtable Talk with Representative Weight New Education Committee Member! In the 2021 legislative session, I will join the Education Standing Committee. That means I will hear and vote on legislation about education from other members of the Utah House of Representatives. My votes will help determine if the full House will receive bills for consideration. I’m excited about the appointment and also very thoughtful about my experiences and views from teaching for 32 years. Most decisions in our public education system are made by administrators and local school boards. State lawmakers are protective of local authority, but we also recognize our role in assuring quality, equity, and access to education for all Utah students. And we have a strong position about accountability and public trust. My views from the classroom are critical in the discussion that has often been dominated by policy makers with more background in politics and capitalism than education. My experience with students, their parents,
Liz4Utah.com
ElizabethWeight@le.utah.gov
and school communities provides valuable insight about effects of policies on learning. My continuing role among teachers and school staff provides expert information for my legislative colleagues about realities for the adults who teach and provide other services for our students. In 1998, laws designated certain decisions to another authority, the charter school system. Currently, about 1.1% of Utah students attend charter schools. However, all Utah taxpayers contribute to the support of charter schools and there is interest from some to increase that support. School choice is a topic for all Utahns, with rising questions about the selection of students, funding, and accountability. My questions and legislative research are about quality and equity for students, teachers, and staff. I look forward to hearing from you to assure good education policy in Utah. That is the meaningfulness of working together.
Elizabeth Weight, Utah Representative
@RepEWeight
January 2021 | Page 19
PROTECT What Matters MOST!
Unlike portable units that are limited to the room in which they are placed, the REME HALO® provides whole home and building purification. • • • • •
Kills Sneeze Germs within 3 feet Professional Installation Insured and Bonded Technicians New zinc ions kill 99% of viruses on surfaces U.S. and International Hospital approval for the fight against infectious diseases: 99% reduction of Staph (MRSA)
Reme Halo® Whole Home In-Duct Air Purifier
KEEP the AIR inside your home SAFE. KILLS FLU, COLD, AND CORONAVIRUS.
SAFE AIR UTAH
McDougalFuneralHomes .com.
Page 20 | January 2021
Must present coupon. Not valid with any other offers. Exp. 1/31/21.
Ask us about all your pre-planning needs.
Why preplan with us? If you appreciate peace of mind, you’ll understand why it makes sense to preplan with us.
Start 2021 with a new group of professionals to collaborate with. Nobody knows what local businesses face better than other local business leaders and professionals. Joining now means you can help draw up some additional plans for your business in the new year and ChamberWest can help! Collaborate with us in 2021. www.chamberwest.com
Reduce common allergy triggers from particulates such as pollen, mold spores, dander and dust.
SafeAirUtah.Com • 801-890-2260
The Chamber is Collaboration.
801-977-8755
1,700
$
only
@chamberwestutah
∙ Spares your family from making detailed decisions at an emotional time ∙ Ensures that wishes are expressed ∙ Prevents overspending and can lock in costs ∙ We specialize in Pre-Arranged Funerals, Wills, Trusts, Burial Plots & Cremation We are experts at preplanning and know all of the issues that may arise. Call us, you’ll be glad you did.
801-509-9798
Located at 4330 South Redwood Road, Taylorsville, UT 84123
West Valley City Journal
Posting Date December 21, 2020
1. MOVIES: In how many movies did Sean Connery play the character James Bond? 2. ADVERTISING SLOGANS: What product is touted as “the fabric of our lives”? 3. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: How many laps do drivers have to complete in the Indianapolis 500 race? 4. HISTORY: How many Pyramids of Giza (Eqypt) were constructed? 5. MUSIC: Which pop song repeats the chorus, “Why can’t you see? You belong with me”? 6. LITERATURE: What kind of novel is written in a series of letters? 7. MEASUREMENTS: How many cups are in 1 pint? 8. MYTHOLOGY: What is the home of the Greek gods? 9. ANATOMY: How much of the adult human body is made up of water? 10. GEOGRAPHY: What is the most densely populated continent on Earth? Trivia Test Answerst 1. Seven; 2. Cotton; 3. 200; 4. Three; 5. “You Belong With Me” by Taylor Swift; 6. Epistolary; 7. 2 cups; 8. Olympus; 9. About 60%; 10. Asia
Wvc Journal .com
© 2020 King Features Synd., Inc.
January 2021 | Page 21
Salt Lake County concludes budget process with no tax increase
Aimee Winder Newton Salt Lake County Council | District 3
With the final approval of the 2021 Salt Lake County budget drawing near, I wanted to share some of the proactive steps we have taken as your County Council to tighten up spending. In June, because of concerns surrounding revenue impacts from COVID-19, we scoured our budget to find as many cuts as possible – leading to a massive $77 million budget reduction. Because of all the cuts we made in June, and because sales tax revenue did not fall as much as we anticipated, we ultimately had a fairly uneventful budget season. As we strive to be as fiscally prudent as possible, one of our top priorities is maintaining our AAA bond rating. We are one of only 27 counties in the entire nation with this highest-achievable bond rating. Keeping this bond rating results in much lower interest rates on bonds and loans. Here are some key principles I have always prioritized during the budget process, this year included. First and foremost, tax dollars don’t “belong” to the county. The funds are yours. Taxpayers entrust the county, or any government for that matter, with a portion of their hard-earned money because they expect that entity to pro-
vide essential services for society to function. There is no amount of tax dollars that is too small to be scrutinized. That is why I push back aggressively anytime I hear someone flippantly say, “It’s only x dollars… so we shouldn’t worry about it.” Any expenditure, whether it is $10 or $10 million, should be reviewed, and if it can’t be fully justified to the taxpayers, it should be cut. Second, I believe that all government functions should be viewed in two different categories: “need to have” and “nice to have.” The “need to have” list obviously includes things that are statutorily required of the county to perform, think constitutionally mandated services such as criminal justice and election administration. I also consider public safety to be in the “need to have” category, since keeping our residents safe is a core function of government. However, just because they are essential does not mean they are above scrutiny, because efficiencies can still be found. The “nice to have” list includes quality of life services the county provides, as well as any other program or initiative that can easily be described as a benefit to county residents, but
not necessarily considered essential. Libraries and open space some of the things in this category. The separation of these two categories demonstrates the same principle that every family in our county goes through in their annual budgets. They strive to live within their means and focus on essential family expenditures sometimes at the expense of luxuries. Lastly, I review each aspect of our budget and ask, “Is this the proper role of county government?” I’ve said many times that government can’t and shouldn’t be all things to all people. There are many programs or services that are better suited to other government entities, nonprofits, or the private sector. Particularly in a tight budget year, it’s important to review each program, service, or expenditure and ask that question again and again. I’m confident that these principles are the essence of good budgeting and fiscal discipline, and I will always advocate for this approach any time government is entrusted with taxpayer dollars. You can rest assured that for 2021, Salt Lake County has a balanced budget with no tax increase.
BUY ONE FAT BOY
get one free! Limit 1 per customer. Single item only. Not valid on Saturday. Expires 1/31/21.
Mention this ad and we will pay of your bill! (bills over $500)
$50 4591 South 5600 West • West Valley
(801) 968-2130
www.AbsDrivein.com
28 West 700 South • Salt Lake City, UT 84101
801-363-4400 rickwarnerbodyshop.com
Royal Pro
CLEANING SERVICES
General Cleaning Deep Cleaning Specialty Cleaning Move in/Move out Cleaning
$20 OFF
ANY SERVICE Expires 1.31.2021
Licensed d • Bonded • Insured
801-618-1868 www.royalproclean.com
Page 22 | January 2021
Buy One Get One 1/2 Off
Cannot be combined with other offers. Expires 1/31/2021.
Open for Take Out
DELIVERY: Door Dash, Grub Hub, Uber Eats
801-280-4099
7251 Plaza Center Drive • SpudToddos.com
URGENT AND PRIMARY CARE:
Only $10 A Visit!
WITH MEMBERSHIP
Medallus Medical Membership is a simple membership program to all of our 8 clinics. Members can receive discounted medical services at $10/visit flat fee in exchange for a monthly membership fee: • $50 / month (1 member) • $75 / month (party of 2) • $100 / month (family of 3) • $120 / month (family of 4 to 6) *$25 additional per person (family of 7 to 12)
$20 registration fee – 12-month contract
801-810-7058
arlissf@medallus.com AfterHoursMedical.com West Valley City Journal
Making the grade
Life
Laughter AND
by
PERI KINDER
When my kids were little, I did a bit of substitute teaching. After I accidentally threw an encyclopedia and flipped a desk over, I realized teaching elementary school probably wasn’t for me. Teachers are comprised of strong stuff. The molten lava that flows through their veins gives them courage and an unbreakable gaze. A skeleton made of graphene (200 times stronger than steel) keeps them steady and protects their hearts. And those hearts beat a consistent tempo that opens doors to new worlds and encourages students to find their own rhythm. But teachers are exhausted. I attended Viewmont Elementary during the 1900s, where teachers were the top of the food chain. I worshiped the good ones, feared the difficult ones, and loathed the mean ones. I remember the “trip” our kindergarten class took to Hawaii where we ate coconut and learned the hula. And the teacher who caught us eating snowballs, so she melted snow to show us the dirt and grime. (I haven’t eaten a snowball in more than 45 years.) Or the teacher who shamed me for not knowing the word “chandelier.” School was where I learned
West Valley HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING
Apex Clean Air
Installations & Repairs Call today for a free in home estimate.
801-618-4649 CONCRETE
T3 Concrete LLC
Specializes in Driveways, Walkways, Patios, Foundations, Retaining Walls, Basement Entrances Stamp & Color Concrete Call Mate’ for a FREE Estimate
801-918-8843 Electric
HARVEY’S ELECTRIC 801-833-0998
All types of electrical work. Residential and Commercial. Over 10 years in business Licensed and Insured.
Call and ask about Breaker Box Labeling!
PATIO COVERS & HANDRAILS PREPARE FOR ICY WINTER
PLUMBING/HVAC
24Hr Rooter Connectionz Drain, Sewer, Plumbing, Heating & Air Services. $49 OFF Any Service! Call Today
801-758-2095 UtahsPlumber.com
DECKS & HANDRAILS
Utahs Best Decks Building Utah’s BEST Decks for over 25 years with quality & integrity. BestDecksInUtah.com Call John today for a FREE estimate.
801-413-6938 TREE SERVICES
INTERMOUNTAIN TREE EXPERTS
Capitol Exteriors (801) 253-2566
$20 OFF FIRST CLEANING!
Call NOW For SPECIALS
Tile and Flooring Powell Tile and Laminate Flooring
LEAFGUARD RAIN GUTTERS
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING
SPARKLE WINDOW WASHING
One-Piece System, Professional Installation
Residential and Light Commercial
HEATING & AIR
Single Story $425 - $325 2 Story $525 - $425
Guaranteed not to clog for as long as you own your home.
CALL AND RECEIVE A $200 VISA GIFT CARD WITH YOUR LEAFGUARD PURCHASE!
801-244-3542
SUGARHOUSE SERVICE & REPAIR
Call Jeff at 801-347-1150 LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED
HOLIDAY SPECIAL
Mention this ad for additional $50 OFF
801-347-6404
Free Estimate - 385-300-0869
24 Hour Emergency: 801-484-0506 www.sugarhousehvac.com
CALL PAUL TO SCHEDULE YOUR HOME TODAY
DOG PRODUCTS
ROOFING
HOME IMPROVEMENT
Quality and Integrity for over 25 Years
801-272-7000
All types of roofs
$650 OFF any reroof over 2,000 sq. ft.
Royal Pro Cleaning Services
General Cleaning, Deep Cleaning Move In/Move Out & Specialty Cleaning
FREE ESTIMATES
801-205-5999
Removals . Trimming . Pruning
CLEANING SERVICES
Siding – Soffit – Fascia – Raingutters
Call Chris for a free estimate 801.708.1123
Available at Tractor Supply or online at www.kennelvax.com.
Wvc Journal .com
Interior/Exterior/Cabinets/Stains Mention ad for Discount FREE Proposal
SIDING
Licensed and Insured / 15 Yrs Experience
Call John today for a FREE estimate.
801-205-5999
FIRST PREMIER PAINTING
PREMIER QUALITY PAINTING OUR CLIENTS COME FIRST
hosting a virtual call for a class of first graders who have the attention span of a meatball. My mom thought education was vital, but if she had to supervise online learning for me and my four siblings, she would have sold us to the circus. Teachers are struggling. Kids are struggling. Parents are struggling. If we’ve learned one thing this crappy year, it’s that superheroes walk among us. Healthcare workers and winemakers are tied for the top spot on my list, with teachers, students, and parents finishing a close second by demon-
Tile, Back Splashes, and Bathrooms Laminate Flooring, Finish Work, and Services
Use Happy Jack ToneKote to treat allergies, stop Jack shedding & insure a Happy warm winter coat and Seal’N Heal to protect wounds with a bitter taste to prevent gnawing and allow healing.
• Steel Covered Carports, Patios & Porches • Steel Handrails • Quality Decks
social skills. Okay, I learned them poorly, but I did learn some. I interacted with people my age where we talked about our favorite TV shows, what we had for dinner and whether my crush winked at me or had a tic. Today, students feel lost. My 8-year-old grandson started the school year online, changed to in-person learning, then went back online. He might enjoy hanging out with his mom, grandma, and little demon of a sister, but he misses his friends. Imagine trying to learn long division on a Zoom call. I couldn’t even learn it in person. Or imagine
strating unprecedented resilience. Many kids are failing this year, but are they really? Can you fail when a global pandemic changes the rules? When teachers adapt daily to shifting conditions? Can you fail when parents work full-time jobs at home while staying on top of online assignments and hybrid schedules? Teachers are a mighty mix of educator/guidance counselor/ cheerleader/cruise director, and this year their creativity and patience has been tested. It brings to mind my husband’s favorite quote, “Looks like I picked the wrong [year] to stop sniffing glue.” This is a thank you to the teachers who work with my grandchildren. The teachers who are innovative and kind. The teachers who show up like a boss and get to work. This is also a thank you to the students who have proven to be flexible and strong. They’re all doing the best they can as they watch adults try to figure everything out. Maybe we write this school year off; maybe it’s not the year to learn geometry or teach Latin. Perhaps it’s the year we value kindness, connection, and self-care for everyone involved. I promise, there’ll be much less encyclopedia throwing and desk flipping.
Katie Sheen Painter
Call Today 801-618-1868 www.royalproclean.com
VEHICLES WANTED
We’ll buy your running & non-running, wrecked or broken car, truck or van.
(801) 506-6098 CarSoldForCash.com A Local Utah Company
FLAT ROOF SPECIALISTS
OLYMPUS ROOFING
801.887.7663 SERVING WASATCH FRONT SINCE 1973
METAL ROOFING
Excellent Paint Jobs - Affordable Prices Interior/Exterior . Residential/Commercial
Metal Man Roofing LONGEVITY, DURABILITY SAFETY, ENERGY EFFICIENCY, LIFE-TIME WARRANTY
Call Katie 385.628.7514
Call Today for a Free Estimate!
LICENSED AND INSURED
FREE ESTIMATES! NO JOB TOO SMALL!
801-509-9007
January 2021 | Page 23
UTAH’S #1 SEWER COMPANY Licensed • Insured • Bonded • Over 50 Years Experience
$49 OFF Any Service
For homeowners only. One coupon per household. Not valid with other any offers. Expires 1/31/2021.
Drain Services Plumbing Sewer Services Heating & Air Experienced Techs, Dependable Service, Affordable Rates, Emergency Services Available 24/7
Call Today 801-758-2095 www.utahsplumber.com for a Free Estimate
BUY A HARVEST RIGHT HOME FREEZE DRYER AND
RECEIVE A 55 GALLON WATER TANK FOR FREE
Only
2,695
$
A home freeze dryer from Harvest Right allows you to preserve the food your family loves to eat. Freeze drying locks in both flavor and nutrition and can last for years, making freeze-dried food even better than fresh!
Call Today! 385-220-7303
TASTE
Food Maintains Flavor & Freshness
SHELF LIFE
Food Lasts Up to 25 Years
BENEFITS OF FREEZE DRYING NUTRITION
Food Retains 97% of Its Nutrition
VERSATILITY
Preserve Dairy, Meat, Produce and Complete Meals
EASY
SAVE
Smart Technology Makes Home Freeze Dried Food is Everything Automatic 1/3 the Cost of Store Bought
January 2021 | Vol. 7 Iss. 01
FREE WEST VALLEY CITY MENTAL HEALTH COURT WORKS TO TURNAROUND LIVES By Darrell Kirby | d.kirby@mycityjournals.com
F
or the first time in a long time, Kody Rushton is happy. The 36-year-old West Valley City resident has a way to go to get his life exactly where he wants it, but right now it’s all about progress and he has made plenty of it so far. It was about a year ago that Rushton was arrested for domestic violence for punching a friend of his mother. “She got scared and called the cops on me. I knocked down her TV and broke a glass,” he said. He readily admits he threw the punch, but says he didn’t mean to connect with it. It was the second time he had a physical altercation with the same guy. Before that, Rushton did three terms in prison for crimes stemming from a methamphetamine addiction that started when he was 18. He could have had his case sent to justice or district court, pleaded or been found guilty, served his penalty, and gotten out to likely commit another crime. Especially with depression, anxiety and anger management issues that impacted his ability to make good decisions. Instead, Rushton had an offer from police, attorneys and West Valley City Justice Court Judge Clint Gilmore—go through Mental Health Court and try to get lasting, life-changing help. He accepted it.
Mental Health Court was launched in March 2018 as a special judicial process within the West Valley City Justice Court to provide intensive, court-supervised, mental-health treatment for offenders who commit misdemeanor-level crimes like drug possession and abuse, assault and domestic violence. It is a partnership between police, who have the first contact with the perpetrators, mental health professionals, and the court to help reduce recidivism, jail populations and, most importantly, get people help for the mental health problems that are often the root cause of their law breaking. “We needed some kind of avenue to assist individuals violating the law to find a resource to get treatment and help for their mental illness instead of sending them down the same cycle they’d been dealing with,” said Sgt. Scott Arnold, who oversees the West Valley City Police Department’s Crisis Intervention Team. They are still held accountable for the crimes they commit but at the same time “get help to become more productive members of society,” he said. About 25 to 30 people a year have their cases heard in Mental Health Court. Each one learns Three stints in prison, drug addiction, domestic violence incidents and mental health problems prompted and observes what the court is about and then deKody Rushton to enter West Valley City Mental Health Court to attempt to turn his life around. (Darrell cides if they want to participate or have their cas Kirby/City Journals) Continued page 5
15 SAUCES OVER 50 FRESH INGREDIENTS NAAN PIZZA DOUGH MADE FRESH DAILY
$5 OFF $30 or more
Valid Monday-Thursday. Expires January 31, 2021. Any location. Cannot be combined with other offers.
2927 S 5600 W West Valley
801-890-0415
Local Postal Customer ECRWSS Scan Here: Interactive online edition with more photos.
125 N SR 24 Bicknell, UT
1086 W South Jordan Pkwy South Jordan
435-425-2500
801-302-0777
w w w. C u r r y P i z z a U t a h . c o m
Thank You
to our Community Sponsors for supporting City Journals
Presort Std U.S. Postage PAID Ogden, UT Permit #190