Murray Resident’s Score Part Of Live Nativity
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he story of Christmas, as told in the New Testament, has been narrated countless times for hundreds of years. But the producers of “Echoes of Christmas” say you haven’t seen the story of Christ’s birth told like it is during the live Nativity performances at Liberty Park each holiday season. With original music composed by Murray resident Clive Romney, “Echoes of Christmas” is a 40-minute walking tour, taking attendees to visit shepherds, wise men, the innkeeper and the holy family. The performance features seven original songs that the producers hope will bring the warm feeling of Christmas into every heart. “This performance answers some of the questions that we
By Peri Kinder
all have about why we are important and what our lives add to this world,” interim producer Wendy DeMann said. “There’s such a reverent feeling in the park when [‘Echoes of Christmas’] is going on. You go away with a feeling like there’s hope and light in this world.” As an award-winning composer of more than 500 songs, Romney’s lyrics for the production are meant to instill a sense of peace, while giving several differing viewpoints of Christ’s birth. “We have people come every year because it centers you around the true meaning of Christmas,” Romney said. “It is a
Echoes Of Christmas continued on page 4
christmas homecoming
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feeding the hungry
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bright mhs future
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colt confidence
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q u o ta b l e c o m m u n i t y :
“It’s the little things that are so meaningful, and if I can write
a letter to show how much I appreciated it, then he could get recognized for his efforts too.” page 8
Local Postal Customer ECRWSS
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Page 2 | December 2014
Murray City Journal
NEWS
Early Thanksgiving Dinner Attracts Hundreds By Peri Kinder
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hat does it take to feed more than 400 people Thanksgiving dinner? According to Bob Dunn, the Boys & Girls Club of South Valley executive director, it takes 17 turkeys, 150 pounds of potatoes, five gallons of gravy, dozens of desserts, and an army of volunteers. The BGCSV held its annual
and their families. Additionally, Harmons Grocery donated $500 worth of gift cards to give participants an extra boost this holiday season. Rose and Richard Chapman brought their kids Mikaela, 14, and Callista, 7, to the dinner. Callista has been involved with the club for three years and is a first-grade
Richard, Callista, Rose and Mikaela Chapman enjoy a holiday dinner at the Murray location of the Boys & Girls Club of South Valley.
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enny Simmons, Stephanie Pollei, Elaine Judd, David Christensen and Sharon Whitney were recently presented with Community Arts Awards for their distinguished service with the Murray Arts Advisory Board. “[These individuals] have provided vision and leadership, and have given many volunteer hours over the past four to six years,” Murray Arts Advisory Board Chair Brandon Beckstead said. “Totaled together, their service represents nearly 2,000 hours. We would like to thank them for their distinguished service to the arts.” From left, Simmons, Stephanie Pollei, Elaine Judd and David Christensen (Not pictured: Sharon Whitney)
CHRISTMAS TREE DROP OFF
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urray City will provide two Christmas tree drop off locations in the city. Residents can bring their used trees to the Murray Park Amphitheater parking lot (495 East 5300 South) and to Grant Park (6150 South Main Street) from Dec. 26 through Jan. 31.
Thanksgiving dinner at the Murray location on Nov. 18, inviting families involved in the club’s programs from Murray, Midvale and Sandy. “This dinner has been going on for at least 20 years,” Dunn said. “I love that families love it, and it gives us all something to look forward to. For a lot of families, this is their Thanksgiving dinner.” Volunteers helped gather food and cash donations, spent hours cooking turkeys, stuffing and potatoes, and served dinner to the children participating in the BGCSV
student at Parkside Elementary. She said the best part about the dinner was spending time with her family. “We do this every year,” Rose said. “Callista likes us to come to the activities here.” Devina Troester enjoyed the event with her children, Hunter Dotson, 8, and Shyloh Dotson, 5. “It was really good. It was neat to come and be with my kids,” Troester said. “It’s good the club can do this for families who can’t always do it for themselves.” l m i ss i o n s tate m e n t
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December 2014 | Page 3
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Gillen Remembered As A Community Leader By Peri Kinder
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ormer Murray Police Chief Calvin Gillen passed away on Nov. 14 after a long life of service to his community, his church and his country. Born on Oct. 11, 1926 in Murray, Gillen was active in a variety of sports, receiving a basketball scholarship to the University of Utah in 1944. But after only four months at the university, Gillen joined the military to fight in WWII, where he was stationed in the Philippines and Japan. After the war, Gillen served a mission in Hawaii for the LDS church. When he returned home, he married the love of his life, Arline Reid. They were married for 65 years, and Arline said she was so lucky to spend her life with Gillen. “He was just a wonderful guy,” she said. “Everybody called us a team. We had so much fun together.” Gillen served as the Murray police chief from 1970 through his retirement in 1988. He worked as a police officer for more than 37 years, following in the footsteps of his father Joe Gillen, who was also a Murray police officer. Gillen was honored by many civic organizations, including the Rotary Club, the Elks Lodge and the Lions Club. He was named an Outstanding Friend to Children by the Utah PTA and received national recognition for his Dine
5171 S. State Street Murray, UT 84107 801-262-0681
“ He just loved the holidays
so much. Every year we have a Christmas Eve party, and we will continue that tradition this year.” With The Chief program. Gillen served as the Murray Fun Days chair and represented the city when he and his wife were named the grand marshals for the Fun Days Parade. And he was a huge New York Yankees fan. Gillen and Arline raised five children, and he adored their 19 grandchildren and 34 great-grandchildren. Gillen enjoyed the Christmas season and will be greatly missed during this year’s celebration. “He just loved the holidays so much,” Arline Gillen said. “Every year we have a Christmas Eve party, and we will continue that tradition this year.” l
Calvin Gillen worked as the police chief in Murray in the 1970s and 80s. He is shown here with his wife of 65 years, Arline.
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Page 4 | December 2014
Murray City Journal
NEWS
Vietnam Vet Remembers An Emotional Christmas
great reminder of what the reason for the season really is.” The performance is held at Salt Lake City’s Liberty Park Dec. 11-13 and 15-17, from 7 to 9 p.m., with tours starting every five minutes. Visitors are asked to enter the park at 900 South 600 East and park near the tennis courts. The event is free.
By Peri Kinder
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urray resident Frank Mower has enjoyed nearly seven decades of Christmas celebrations. But the holiday that is the most poignant to him happened 47 years ago, after he returned from the Vietnam War. In 1965, Mower enlisted with the 1st Marine Division and spent a year in Vietnam. His second Vietnam tour in 1967 was even more harrowing, as he fought in many battles and was in combat for the entire year. On Dec. 17, 1967, Mower flew from Vietnam to Okinawa, Japan, for debriefing and inspection, before flying to the El Toro Marine base in California to be discharged. On Dec. 21, Mower was officially released from the military, and was ready to head back to Salt Lake, just in time for Christmas morning. As a young soldier returning from the battlefield, he was more than ready to be back in the arms of his family. As he called to make arrangements to get home, he came to the realization that every flight to Salt Lake was booked. He was stranded in California with no way for him to get home to see his family for the holidays. “I called my parents, Frank and Blanche Mower, and told them I was so sorry, but I wouldn’t make it home in time for Christmas,” Mower said. Soon, he befriended a fellow soldier, a young man from Chicago, who was also stranded at the air base. He had an airline ticket to get home, but didn’t have a way to get to the Los Angeles International Airport, which was about 90 miles away from the base. Mower sat commiserating with his new friend, feeling sorry for himself, when Mower looked up and saw a 1965 Cadillac four-door sedan drive through the gates at the base. “I thought, ‘That looks a lot like my dad’s car,’” he said. As the car approached, Mower realized it was his parents. As soon as they had received his phone call, they drove to California to make sure they got their son home in time for Christmas. “I had told them I couldn’t make it home, so they decided to come down to get me,” Mower said. “It was a little overwhelming. Sometimes, it still chokes me up. You have to remember: only two weeks before, I was in
Echoes Of Christmas continued from page 1
Frank Mower and his mother, Blanche, at his graduation from the Marine Corps in San Diego on March 23, 1965. combat, with all that emotion that comes with that.” Before getting their son back to Utah, Mower said his parents drove his new friend to Los Angeles so he could catch his flight home to Chicago. Then they drove straight through, to make sure Mower would be with his family for the holiday.
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ower has celebrated many Christmases since then. He lived in Las Vegas for 20 years, and has been living with his wife Vickie for the last 25 years in Murray. But he has never forgotten the unconditional love he felt from his parents, and the feelings that still resonate from a Christmas nearly 50 years ago. l
“Echoes of Christmas” provides a guided tour through the Nativity story, featuring seven original songs, an angel choir and live animals. “Echoes of Christmas” was first performed in 2008, and is intended as a holiday gift to the community. Originally produced by Virginia and Bob Baird, DeMann and her husband Dwight are filling in as producers while the Bairds serve an LDS church mission in Taiwan. A highlight of the production is the live animals used during the show, including a camel and a donkey. “The little donkey has been doing this production for so many years that she knows the music and the cues, and nudges the performers when it’s time to sing,” DeMann said. The Nativity will be performed, regardless of the temperature, but will be canceled in the event of rain or heavy snow, so visitors are encouraged to dress warmly. Wheelchairs are available for those who can’t walk through the production. l
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December 2014 | Page 5
MurrayJournal .com
Medical Technology Improves Murray Resident’s Life
Christmas Eve On Hopkins Street Written by Heritage Center Program Director Maureen Gallagher
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lose your eyes and sit in a comfortable chair and just for a moment pretend it’s the 1960s. Every Christmas Eve my parents would host this wonderful open house at 698 Hopkins St. South Buffalo, New York. We would return from St. Agatha’s midnight mass and the house would begin to fill. My dad would be found cooking ham and eggs in the kitchen. Scrumptious pastries and sweet rolls from Elrod’s Bakery would be served. Everyone was invited. Mrs. McFeely (who lived in the upper flat for 40 years) would bring down the most delicious Christmas cookies you have ever eaten. Each year she would say, “Mrs. Gallagher, they are not very good this year.” There was always snow on the ground and a cold chill off Lake Erie. The Christmas music would roar and dancing would take place. My parents would always dance in the dining room. Many years, the dancers would find themselves outside the house and back again. The flow of friends
“ Somehow, those days,
those years, life seemed to beat at a slower drum. Many years the sun would be coming up, and we would just be laying our heads down.” would continue into the early hours. The people in the kitchen were drinking their beers and talking about another Christmas Eve at the Gallagher’s house. Somehow, those days, those years, life seemed to beat at a slower drum. Many years the sun would be coming up, and we would just be laying our heads down. Most of Dec. 25 was spent sleeping and taking it easy. Somehow, presents never seemed to be the focal point of the Christmas season. I hope you are all able to just take a moment to go back to that Hopkins St. Christmas Eve. l
By Peri Kinder
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or Clayton Reynolds, this Christmas will be the first holiday in years that he will celebrate pain free. After working in the plumbing and construction industry for many years, Reynolds began experiencing pain in his left shoulder.
options seemed limited. A nerve block was performed, but it only gave him a few hours of relief. He was facing the possibility of cervical spine fusion, a procedure that would severely limit his range of motion and could leave him unemployed.
“ I cannot stress enough how
lucky I feel and how relieved I am to wake up every day feeling like my neck’s not broken.” Even after rotator cuff surgery, the pain didn’t abate. In fact, it started getting worse. The pain traveled down the left side of his neck, and he was beginning to lose feeling in the fingers on his left hand. After consulting doctors, Reynolds learned he had two herniated discs in his neck that were causing the severe pain, numbness and loss of feeling. His
“In my job, it was critical for me to keep that range of motion,” Reynolds said. “Plus, recovery time from a typical fusion procedure could take up to six months, and I wouldn’t be able to work during that time.” But then Reynolds learned of a two-lev-
Medical Tech continued on page 7
Page 6 | December 2014
Murray City Journal
EDUCATION
School Food Drives Help Community
Murray Students Give To Help Others
By Julie Slama
By Julie Slama
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ourth-grader Tyler McRae recently donated cans of soup, spaghetti and stuffing to McMillan Elementary’s eighth annual food drive to help the Utah Food Bank. “It makes me feel good that I can help others get Thanksgiving food in our community and anywhere people need food,” he said. Students wanted the food drive, held Nov. 17 through Nov. 25, to match last year’s 800-pound goal and by Nov. 21 were close to filling the seven barrels left by the Utah Food Bank. If they meet their goal, students will be allowed to wear hats to school, which normally isn’t allowed. “It’s a great cause, and kids are aware that they are making a difference by donating food,” organizer Kristen McRae said. “Some of our community may be recipients of
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“ We’re hoping that this will spark
some other ways to help others in addition to bringing in food. Even the smallest thing to help another will make a difference.”
the donations. We’re trying to make students aware of how many people they’ll reach by the food items they collect.” McMillan’s food drive theme, “Hats Off for Helping Others,” also encouraged students to express how they could help others on cowboy hats, princess tiaras, football helmets and other different paper hats. Written down, then posted in the school’s front foyer, were ideas such as raking leaves, babysitting, being a friend, preventing bullying and smiling and waving at everyone. “We’re hoping that this will spark some other ways to help others in addition to bringing in food,” McRae said. “Even the smallest thing to help another will make a difference.” Longview Elementary is holding its three-week food drive into early December. Counselor Anne Smith said that the food will benefit the Longview community.
McMillan fourth-grader Tyler McRae donated food to his school’s annual food drive to help others in his community. Hillcrest Junior High will hold its annual food drive Dec. 1-17 to benefit the Utah Food Bank. Viewmont Elementary planned its fifth annual food drive for Dec. 1-5 (after press deadline). Principal Margaret Young said that the school hopes to donate 1,000 pounds, up from 650 pounds last year. During the week-long drive, students had a chance to vote on whether they like camping more than an amusement park or cats more than dogs, by placing their donated canned food items into the appropriately marked barrels. At the end of each day, announcements were made of the students’ favorite choice. “It’s a fun way to bring our students together, but we will have teachers leading class discussions on the impact the food donations have on our community,” Young said prior to the drive. “We’re just so blessed at this school to have a stable community. However, we do want students to realize that there are those who are less fortunate in our community, just right next door, and allow them to be able to help.” l
Tips to keep your pets safe during cold weather • Know the limits: Be aware of your pet’s tolerance for cold weather. • Stay inside if possible: Cats and dogs should be kept inside during cold weather. Some are more tolerant of cold weather; but no pet should be left outside for long periods of time in below-freezing weather. • Collar and chip: Make sure your pet has a well-fitting collar with up-to-date identification and contact information. A microchip is a more permanent means of identification. • Provide shelter: If you are unable to keep your dog inside during cold weather, provide him/her with a warm, solid shelter against wind and have unlimited access to fresh, non-frozen water. The floor of the shelter should be off of the ground (to minimize heat loss into the ground) and bedding should be thick, dry and changed regularly to provide a warm, dry environment. • Feed well: Keep your pet at a healthy weight throughout the winter. Outdoor pets will require more calories in the winter to generate enough body heat and energy to keep them warm.
Murray City Animal Shelter • 5624 S. 300 W. Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Call with any questions at 801-264-2671. Adopt some friends for life!
his year, Murray High students are putting words into action. As part of a school wide drive, students are writing to Santa and mailing their letters at Macy’s department stores. In trade for each letter received, Macy’s will donate $1 to Utah’s Make-A-Wish Foundation. “This is a great opportunity for students to help make a huge donation to a very worthwhile charity, all without pinching our students’ own limited wallets,” English teacher and Peer Leadership Team adviser Christy Waite said. “The students can donate their time, which in turn translates to dollars for a great cause.” The school’s student government and Peer Leadership Team decided on the service project after being motivated by sophomore and Peer Leadership Team member Gwen Brockbank who was a Make-A-Wish recipient of a Disney World trip last year and a spokesperson for the Utah MakeA-Wish chapter this year. Recently Gwen received a bone marrow transplant for aplastic anemia, a condition in which the bone marrow does not make enough new blood cells. The students set incentives to help them reach more than the 11,000 letters that Jordan High School in Sandy wrote last year. Once they reach 5,000 letters, everyone will be served hot chocolate during the winter assembly. At 10,000 letters, two teachers have volunteered to become human sundaes during the assembly. At 12,000 letters, Principal John Goldhardt will shave his head, and at 15,000, lunch will be extended to one hour. However, students haven’t just stopped with those goals. They’ve challenged anyone or any school in Utah to each beat the 11,000 mark and made their goal of 15,000 letters to be delivered to the Macy’s mailbox by Dec. 18. Goldhardt said although it would be a cold winter with a shaved head, he hoped students would reach their goal. “I’ve done it before, but I’m ready to do it again to help someone,” he said. “The students already are writing
Give To Help continued on page 7
December 2014 | Page 7
MurrayJournal .com Give To Help continued from page 6
WHAT WOULD YOU GIVE TO BE
letters. One class wrote 800 of them already.” It was during a 30-minute challenge that students were allowed to write letters in class and more than 8,700 were written Nov. 19 to help Make-A-Wish kids. Helping kids and families also is the goal of Grant Elementary and Hillcrest Junior High this holiday season. At Hillcrest, students will help provide Christmas to other students through its annual Sub-for-Santa drive Dec. 1 through Dec. 17, Principal Jennifer Covington said. Grant will put up its annual Angel Tree, designed to help a couple of Grant community families. On each ornament will be items that families need, such as clothing and food items, along with a couple of wishes, such as books and toys, counselor Anne Smith said. “We’ve been doing it for about 15 years,” she said. “We have a great community who want to give and help others and we’re so grateful.” l
Medical Tech continued from page 5 el artificial cervical disc implantation procedure performed by Dr. Armen Khachatryan at the Jordan Valley Medical Center that
PAIN FREE?
The doctor worked to get the insurance company to approve the cutting-edge implantation, and on Sept. 25, Reynolds became the first Utahn to receive the twolevel cervical artificial disc replacement. “This surgery replaces fusion in the neck,” Khachatryan said. “I truly feel great when I can offer this option to my patients.” Reynolds spent only one day in the hospital and within three weeks had full range of motion in his neck—and best of all, he is pain free. “I came out of surgery and I was able to feel my fingers. I was just about in tears,” he said. “As the day went on, I couldn’t believe I had no more shoulder pain, no more neck pain. I was ecstatic. I cannot stress enough how lucky I feel and how relieved I am to wake up every day feeling like my neck’s not broken.”
seemed like an answer to his prayers. When he started losing feeling in both hands, Reynolds knew he had to act quickly. Khachatryan helped pioneer artificial disc surgery in Utah, and he knew the procedure was the best thing for Reynolds.
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ow, the 54-year-old Murray resident can sleep without discomfort, hold his grandchildren without fear of losing his grip, and he will return to work in mid-December. “There are a tremendous number of patients who have gone to the doctor and been given the option of fusion only,” Khachatryan said. “We want to let people know that this technology is available to them.” l
Murray resident Clayton Reynolds (shown with his wife Margie) recently became the first person in Utah to receive a two-level cervical artificial disc replacement.
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December 2014
Mayor’s Message
FREQUENTLY REQUESTED NUMBERS Attorney.............................................. 801-264-2640 Business Licensing.............................. 801-270-2432 Cemetery............................................ 801-264-2637 City Council......................................... 801-264-2603 Finance Department........................... 801-264-2513 FIRE DEPARTMENT Administrative Office...................... 801-264-2781 Non-Emergency Calls..................... 801-840-4000 General Information............................ 801-264-2525 Heritage Center (Sr. Center)................. 801-264-2635 Human Resources................................ 801-264-2656 Library................................................ 801-264-2580 Mayor’s Office...................................... 801-264-2600 Municipal Court................................... 801-284-4280 Museum.............................................. 801-264-2589 Murray Park Outdoor Pool................... 801-266-9321 Murray Parkway Golf Course................ 801-262-4653 PARKS AND RECREATION Administrative Office...................... 801-264-2614 Rain-out Information..................... 801-264-2525 Park Center (indoor pool).................... 801-284-4200 Passports............................................ 801-264-2607 POLICE DEPARTMENT Administrative Office...................... 801-264-2673 Animal Control............................... 801-264-2671 Code Enforcement.......................... 801-264-2673 Non-Emergency Calls..................... 801-840-4000 POWER DEPARTMENT Administrative Office...................... 801-264-2730 After Hours Emergency................... 801-264-9669 PUBLIC SERVICES Administrative Office...................... 801-270-2440 Building Inspection........................ 801-270-2431 Green Waste Trailers....................... 801-270-2440 Planning and Zoning...................... 801-270-2420 Solid Waste..................................... 801-270-2440 Water, Sewer, Streets...................... 801-270-2440 Zoning Enforcement....................... 801-270-2426 UTILITIES After Hours Emergency................... 801-264-9669 Billing Questions............................ 801-264-2626
WEBSITE:
murray.utah.gov
It is hard for me to imagine the year nearly coming to a close. This has been one of the busiest and most rewarding years of my life. During these past 12 months, I have come to truly understand why my family and I have always thought that Murray was such an exceptional place to live. I have come to appreciate all the different aspects that come together to make a community. As the holiday season approaches, I reflect on all that has been accomplished in Murray City during the past year. I also think of possible solutions to make the future brighter for 2015. One of my staff gave me a sign for my office which says “Today is a Good Day.” Each day I have served as Mayor has truly been a “good day.” If I were to identify a highlight of the year, I can’t say one moment has been better than another. One of the things I’ve realized is how many people, in addition to all the employees, it takes to make
Murray the city it is. I’ve been able to meet with so many organizations, some I didn’t even know existed, that generously provide services to individuals throughout the year and make the lives of others a little more comfortable. Thank you to all the organizations and volunteers who dedicate their time for causes that benefit countless others. The residents who serve on the Murray City Council and on our Boards and Commissions, my hat goes off to each of them. They listen, evaluate and make decisions that are often very challenging and affect the future of people’s lives. The issues are not always easy. They each have different backgrounds which provides knowledge and understanding to better the community. Thank you to our City Council members and the members of our Boards and Commissions for your service. Here is a list of all our Boards and Commissions: • Arts Advisory Board • Building Board of Appeals
MAYOR’S OFFICE Ted Eyre, Mayor Jan Wells,
Chief Administrative Officer
801-264-2600 5025 S. State Street Murray, Utah 84157-0520 • MCCD Design Review Committee • Parks and Recreation Advisory Board • Personnel Advisory Board • Planning and Zoning Commission • Shade Tree and Beautification Commission Without the contributions of so many, our community would not be “Murray, a City without Equal.” May I take this opportunity to wish you and your family a happy Holiday Season and a peaceful and healthy New Year. Sincerely,
• Hearing Officers • Heritage Center Advisory Board • History Advisory Board • Library Board of Directors
Ted Eyre, Mayor
MURRY CITY GENERAL PLAN Murray City recently began the process of updating the General Plan. Utah State Code requires municipalities to adopt a General Plan to analyze the changes that have occurred in the community and formulate goals, policies and implementation measures to guide future development in the City. It will include an analysis of areas related to land use planning, energy conservation, transportation, economic development, housing, parks and recreation, and natural and cultural resources. Following a Request for Proposals process, the City selected CRSA, a local firm with expertise in this area, to act as the consultant for this project. A steering committee has also been established and is comprised of City staff members, elected officials and citizens. Public input is a critical part of the update process and we encourage your participation. The first public open house was held on October 7 at Murray High School, with a second open house anticipated after the first of the year. For more information
on this process, please contact Jared Hall at jhall@murray.utah.gov or by telephone at 801-270-2420.
Message from the Council You are invited to participate in the world’s largest grassroots fundraiser. On July 17-18, 2015, your Murray City Municipal Council Members and Administration will create teams in support of the American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life. At Relay, teams of people will camp out at Murray Park and take turns walking or running around a designated path in honor of each unique cancer story. Individual teams are asked to have a representative on the track at all times. Through this event we find comfort and support from others who have faced cancer or lost a loved one. It is a chance to meet individuals who are passionate about finding an end to cancer in our lifetime.
“When we walk together, we are stronger than cancer.” —Jeff Ross
This movement gives communities across the globe a chance to celebrate the lives of people who are battling cancer, to remember loved ones lost, and fight back against the disease. Over four million people in more than 5,200 communities in the United States, along with those in 19 other countries, gather to take part in the global phenomenon to raise much needed funds and awareness toward saving lives from cancer. We invite all cancer survivors in the community to attend our Relay For Life event because they are the reason we participate in the movement to end cancer. Our goal is to create a world where more people survive cancer. This year, nearly 14 million people will be able to do that thanks to the support of dedicated Relay participants. Survivors are the guests of honor at Relay events. In Murray, we offer survivors special T-shirts at a reception to kick-off our Relay. With great applause, the survivors lead the way around the track in a victory lap to celebrate what they’ve overcome while inspiring and motivating their community to fight. Survivors are proof that cancer can be defeated. One of the most moving parts of Murray’s event is the Luminarie Ceremony. As the sun sets over campsites and darkness falls, the night is brightened by the glow of illuminated bags called luminaria, each bearing the name of someone who has battled cancer. Some celebrate cancer survivors, while others help us honor and remember those gone too soon. All represent someone special who has been profoundly affected by cancer and the family and friends who continue to fight back in their honor The American Cancer Society would like to announce something really exciting happening in Utah. After a 3 year campaign, the Salt Lake City Hope Lodge will finally open its doors in 2015.
Hope Lodge will provide support for cancer patients and their caregivers when they are most vulnerable and without the anchor of familiar surroundings and relationships. It will increase access to healthcare for patients undergoing treatment without the additional concern and expense of lodging so they may focus on treatment. “What a wonderful feeling it is to know that every day you can always rely on the compassion and support of the staff, volunteers, your fellow patients and caregivers to get you through the rough patches. Next to being home with loved ones, I could not have been in a better place to begin to heal my mind, my body and my spirit.” -Buck H, Hope Lodge Guest. Cancer is a challenge emotionally, physically, and financially. This is an effort to make the fight possible. In addition to cancer research and patient lodging, Relay For Life supports other programs and services such as: Look Good, Feel Better; Road to Recovery; and Patient Navigators. Anyone in our Murray community fighting cancer may access our Programs and Services for free due to the generous funds we raise from our Relay For Life events. It is our mission to educate the community about staying well, getting well, finding cures, and fighting back against cancer. Relay For Life is empowering, inspiring, motivating, and comforting. We are asking for your support as Murray citizens in reaching our goal of $100,000. Please stay tuned for more information so that we can work together to create hope and build a world with more birthdays! —Jim Brass Council Member, District 3
Street Department
MURRAY CITY COUNCIL Council District 1
Dave Nicponski
801-913-3283 dnicponski@msn.com Council District 2
D. Blair Camp
801-214-8547 blair.camp@murray.utah.gov Council District 3
Jim Brass
801-598-7290 jim.brass@murray.utah.gov Council District 4
Diane Turner
801-635-6382 diane.turner@murray.utah.gov Council District 5
Brett A. Hales
801-882-7171 brett.hales@murray.utah.gov Council Administrator
Jan Lopez
801-264-2622 jlopez@murray.utah.gov
If you have questions, please contact the Murray Public Services Department at 801-270-2440
Snow Removal With wintertime arriving in Murray City, below is a reminder of Murray City’s Code concerning snow removal: SNOW EMERGENCY ROUTES; PARKING PROHIBITED: A. It is unlawful to park, leave or abandon a motor vehicle on any streets after one hour from the commencement of snowfall until the completion of snow removal operations on the street. B. A violation of this section is an infraction. A vehicle in violation of this section may be impounded. (Ord. 03-41 § 2: Ord. 94-47 § 1) OBSTRUCTING RIGHT OF WAY WITH SNOW: A. It is unlawful to place snow removed from private property, sidewalks, drive approaches or other public places in a street or any other public way. B. A violation of this section is a class B misdemeanor. (Ord. 96-05 § 1)
REMOVAL OF SNOW BY ABUTTING PROPERTY OWNERS: A. It is unlawful for the owner, occupant, lessee or agent of any property abutting on any paved sidewalk to fail to remove or cause to be removed from such paved sidewalk all hail, snow or sleet falling thereon within twenty four (24) hours after such hail, snow or sleet has ceased falling. B. Any violation of this section shall be an infraction and, upon conviction, shall be punished as provided by law. A separate offense shall be deemed to be committed on each day an offense occurs or continues. (Ord. 01-00 § 2: Ord. 95-14 § 1)
Christmas Tree Disposal Murray City residents can dispose of their live Christmas trees in the parking lots at Murray Park (330 East Vine Street) and Grant Park (6150 South Main Street). This service is available anytime between December 26 and January 31. For additional information, please contact the Public Services Department at 801-270-2400.
Murray Police Department Now that school has been back in session for a few months, it is a good time to review some safety concerns for our children. The safe passage of our students to and from school is of upmost importance. We have school crossing zones attended by a crossing guard and flashing lights to help them cross the roadways. Please be mindful of the lights, the guards and the students and slow down in the school zones. Many students travel to and from school by school bus. Please remember that when the lights are flashing and the stop sign is extended on the school bus, you must stop and not pass the bus. It may be difficult to see students exiting the bus and crossing the street. Let’s all do our part in seeing that our students are safe.
Murray Arts Beat Upcoming Events: Jan. 14-16
Murray High Broadway Review MHS, 7 p.m., $3
Jan. 19
Martin Luther King Concert MHS, 7 p.m., free
Jan. 31
Murray Concert Band MHS, 7:30 p.m., free
Arts in the Park Applications Artists interested in performing in the summer 2015 Murray Arts in the Park free lunch, children matinee and family night concert series should send a bio and demo to Murray Arts, 296 E. Murray Park Ave., Murray, Utah 84107, due no later than Jan. 26, 2015. Youth Musicals and Storytelling Residencies Murray City Cultural Arts will produce youth musicals and storytelling residencies at various school and city venues in Murray from December through May. These programs are supported with grants from the Utah Division of Arts and Museums and Salt Lake County ZAP program.
For more details, check out the website murray.utah.gov under Cultural Arts or contact Mary Ann Kirk at mkirk@murray.utah.gov or telephone at 801-264-2638.
For additional information, please contact Sergeant Higgins at 801-652-9813
Heritage Center Utah Symphony String Quartet - Friday, Dec. 12, 11 a.m. Enjoy holiday music with four talented musicians from the Utah Symphony for a free performance. No registration is needed and you can stay for lunch after the performance. Lunch will be served from 11:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m. New Year’s Eve Celebration - Wednesday, Dec. 31, 10 a.m. Join the Heritage Center in counting down to the New Year early.
Murray Library Enjoy the sounds of the seasons at Murray Library with local musical artists! Murray Library is excited to host the following groups for our 2014 Holly Jolly Christmas Music Festival: • Grant Elementary School Choir Tuesday, Dec. 2, 7 p.m. • Horizon Elementary Bell Choir Wednesday, Dec. 10, 10 a.m. • Murray High Madrigals Thursday, Dec. 11, 7 p.m. • Viewmont Elementary School Choir Tuesday, Dec. 16, 6 p.m. • McMillan Elementary School Choir Wednesday, Dec. 17, 7 p.m. • Johnson Piano & Cello Duet Thursday, Dec. 18, 7:30 p.m. • Richardson Family Strings Monday, Dec. 22, 7:30 p.m. The fun continues at our Deck the Halls Palooza on Saturday, Dec. 6, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Enjoy story times, activities, a photo booth and even meet Santa Claus himself! These events are free and for all ages.
Murray Library Home
Murray Library Calendar
Murray Library Monday - Thursday 10 - 9 Friday & Saturday 10 - 6
Visit us online at murraylibrary.org
Or call us at 801-264-2580 for more information
166 East 5300 South • Murray, UT 84107
For information on these and other great Heritage Center programs call 801-264-2635 The celebration begins with a special brunch; games of bingo, with special holiday prizes and music from the 40s and 50s provided by Moods N’ Music. Following the entertainment, there will be a toast to the “New Year” with sparkling cider at noon, instead of midnight. Cost for the party is $6 and includes bingo, entertainment, party favors and brunch. Tickets must be purchased in advance. Party favors and prizes sponsored by Jenkins-Soffe.
Holiday Hours Wed., Dec. 24 - Closed at 1 p.m. Thurs., Dec. 25 - Closed Fri., Dec. 26 - Closed Wed., Dec. 31 - Closed at 3 p.m. Thurs., Jan. 1 - Closed
MurrayJournal .com
Eggs & Issues Meetings Friday mornings 7:30-8:30 a.m. Mimi’s Restaurant (5300 South State) December is a GREAT month to join us at Eggs & Issues. No cost to attend unless you order from the menu.
THANK YOU to the following businesses for investing in the Murray Area Chamber of Commerce! Your continued support and involvement make Murray City the very best place to work, play and live!
LazoTEK- John Lazo
WE APPRECIATE YOUR SUPPORT Zane Benefits – Leah Bergensen
CousCous Restaurant – Nick Shams
Open to everyone.
Dec. 5: Open Networking: share your business successes, challenges and failures. Dec. 12: Senator Gene Davis will share items the 2015 Legislative Session will be discussing. Great opportunity for you to come ask those important questions! Dec. 19: Murray Mayor Ted Eyre will give us an update on Utopia. This should be a great time to learn more about the program and how it impacts Murray City. Dec. 26: No meeting- Merry Christmas!!!
L E G A L S
MURRAY CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT NOTICE OF INTENT TO DISPOSE OF UNCLAIMED PERSONAL PROPERTY Pursuant to Title 77, Chapter 24a, Utah Code Annotated (1953, amended) the Murray City Police Department hereby gives notice that the personal property described on the following list has been held for at least three months and the owner(s) cannot be located, or if known, such owner(s) have been notified and have failed to claim such property and that Murray City Police Department will dispose of the personal property according to law. Commencing nine (9) days after the date of this publication and public posting of this notice, if the owner(s) have not claimed the property. Murray City Police Department will dispose of the personal property as outlined by State law, culminating with a public auction or by donating the unclaimed property to charity. The affected personal property is described as follows: SPORTING GOODS AND EQUIPMENT, CELL PHONES AND ACCESSORIES, VEHICLE ACCESSORIES, VEHICLE STEREOS AND ACCESSORIES, TOOLS AND ACCESSORIES, JEWELRY, CAMERA AND ACCESSORIES, COMPACT DISKS, HOME ENTERTAINMENT EQUIPMENT, COMPUTERS AND ACCESSORIES, LAWN AND GARDEN EQUIPMENT, BICYCLES & MORE. A MORE DETAILED LIST WITH SERIAL NUMBERS IS AVAILABLE AT THE MURRAY CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT DURING NORMAL BUSINESS HOURS.
MURRAY CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT
5025 South State Street, Murray, UT 84107 801-264-2652 (EVIDENCE)
RealtyPath – Robyn Pearson C & C Design – April Shaw Centerpoint Apt. – Ann Royce Centurylink – Flemming Jensen Canada Chiropractic – Dr. Angie Canada
Utah Power & Light C.U. – Dennis Hymas Royce Realty – Shaunna Shurtliff Mountain America C.U. – Travis Labrum Desert Star Playhouse – Andrea Hansen Forest Product Sales – Tom Butterfield THANK YOU AND MERRY CHRISTMAS! On behalf of the The Murray Chamber Board of Directors and Ambassadors
Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies
No chamber membership required!
December Events
December 2014 | Page 13
CHAMBER CORNER
The Adoption Exchange
The Marriott Residence Inn
Page 14 | December 2014
Murray City Journal
SPORTS
Murray Football Wants More
Colts Are Feeling Confident By Caitlin J. Wilson
By Michelle Bodkin
W
M
urray’s football team isn’t exactly used to having success on the field, but 2014 was the start of something different. After several unsuccessful years, the Spartans finally made a playoff appearance which is something they hope they can build into more success in the coming years. “Things went very well for us this year,” head coach Mike Richmond said. “Coming into the season… we had a kind of cautious optimism that we had a good football team, but you never really know until the ball gets kicked off.” The Spartans ended their regular season 6-3 and tied for second place in their region. “We made the playoffs, which I think it’s been 10 to12 years since Murray has made the play-offs,” Richmond said. “All things considered, we had a very successful
“ I think this really gave
our team an opportunity to pause and take a look at how precious life is and how quickly things can change.” year, especially considering the challenges the program has had the last few years.” Murray’s road to the playoffs was tough, but they dug deep and found a way to get themselves there. “The team we were tied with beat us head to head (that was Skyline). We were given a three seed in our region which meant we had to go on the road,” Richmond said. “We went up to play Sky View and lost in the first round. The final ended up being 42-14. We lost on the road, but looking back, all things
Murray’s football team made the playoffs for the first time in 12 years, all while bonding over teammate Devon Ross’ personal tragedy. Photo courtesy of Mike Adams considered we are very satisfied with our season this year.” Part of the Spartans’ success was inspired by a teammate’s personal tragedy which helped put things into perspective for the team. “[Junior] Devon Ross came out and joined us late last spring [for his first year of football],” Richmond said. “Great kid, great family and shortly after working out with us, his little brother [Carson] was diagnosed with a brain tumor and has just had a tremendous fight on his hands going through chemo and radiation. It’s been something that really brought our team together.” Murray’s football team participated in a 5K run to help raise funds for Carson’s treatment as well as shaving their heads after Carson lost all of his hair through his radiation treatments. “There’s funny life lessons you learn through football, but I think this really gave our team an opportunity to pause and take a look at how precious life is and how quickly things can change,” Richmond said. “Those
days at practice where things are tough and maybe they’ve had a bad day, maybe they’re at school and aren’t feeling well and now they have to go to practice, I think a lot of kids on the team said, ‘Hey guys, we aren’t going through anything.’” Those life lessons learned this past season will only help Murray players as they strive to grow and progress. Richmond feels his team has the ability to take the next steps but says it’s contingent on how hard they are willing to work for it. “It’s going to take a tremendous amount of hard work,” he said. “We really attribute a lot of our success to our graduating senior class. They made a commitment several years ago that they were going to make a difference at Murray High School. They were going to be the graduating class that would be the group that turned our program around. Yes, we can use this as a building block. We have a lot of people that are going to have to make a commitment in the offseason and put in the work in order for us to continue to have that success.” l
ith a new basketball season, a new coach running the squad and the Cottonwood Colts itching to get back onto the court, it’s no wonder that both the coach and his team are happy things are underway. “We’re getting antsy, all excited to be playing basketball again,” coach Bernie Graziano said. “It’s a new season, great support, an awesome atmosphere; just happy to get the ball rolling again.” If there’s one word that comes to mind about this year’s season, Graziano said it would have to be “confidence.” “There’s always room for that,” he said. “I’d love us to come into the games and work hard, but mostly believe in ourselves. I think confidence for this team is huge and will be an asset for them.” The Colts record last year was 4-19 overall; and region play was 2-8. Some of those losses were in close games, and Graziano wants his players to put all their effort onto the court, and keep their heads held high this season. “I believe if we get that confidence going in the preseason, we can have it throughout the rest of the year, and that’s what I’d like to see. They’re a great group of guys and are awesome to work with.” This is Graziano’s first year coaching at Cottonwood High School. Before this he coached at Granger High. He said he’s happy to be at Cottonwood and wants to help out in any way that he can. “I’ve coached for a lot of good schools in the past. I’m here with Cottonwood now, and I like what I’ve seen and enjoy the kids here. It’s a good community, and there are friendly supporters everywhere I go. It’s
Colts Confident continued on page 15
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MurrayJournal .com Colts Confident continued from page 14 been nice,” he said. Knowing he has only two seniors on the team, and very little higher-level playing experience with the rest of the boys, the coach understands there will be a lot of learning and challenges knocking at the door. “This team is extremely young and don’t have much varsity experience,” he noted. “We have one returning starter that’s a senior, and another senior who will be coming off the bench for us. So, yeah, we
have a very, very young Colts team.” In his eyes, however, these young players have loads of talent, and they all have bright futures ahead of them. Graziano wants his players to know that he admires their desire to play with passion and show how hard they’re willing to work. “I just want them to have fun this year and show how much we love this game. This team as a whole will come together at the beginning of the season and be there for one another. That’s something to be proud of in itself,” he said. l
The Cottonwood High Boys Basketball team poses for a picture. Photo courtesy of Stephanie Wynder
Murray Volleyball On An Upswing By Michelle Bodkin
M
urray women’s volleyball has struggled for a few years now, but under new coach Lindsay Luthy they have seen massive improvement. The Spartans had a chance this season to come in second in their region, but ultimately fell to fifth place. However, the race between second and fifth place was so tight in Murray’s region this year that Luthy feels good about the progress made and sees good things in their future. “We were pretty proud of our season,” she said. “Basically, the last three teams were tied either for second place or fifth place so we ended up in fifth place. We were one loss away from going to state and one loss away from possibly taking second place. Kind of bummed we didn’t make it to state. We were hoping to make it this year, but I think the girls learned a lot and progressed in their skills. In that way, it was successful.” One of the keystones for Murray’s improved season was senior hitter Lexi Davies who consequently will be playing
at the collegiate level next year. “She actually has a scholarship for UVU,” Luthy said of Davies. “She was a great leader, an awesome team captain and was able to keep the girls excited and energetic and focused when we needed it. She’s a great player and has a lot of skill.” Going forward, Murray will now need to rely on its up-and-coming talent, but Luthy doesn’t think that will be an issue. “We have a strong group of juniors this year,” she said. “As far as hitting, we have Kelsey Murray who is coming up and she’s a great hitter. Much shorter than Lexi but still a very strong hitter. She’s got amazing awareness of her court and where she is. If the ball is set off a little bit, she’s able to adjust really well to the ball and still put it where she wants it. We are excited and hope she will develop in club over the summer and then next year come out and be our strong hitter.”
Murray Volleyball continued on page 16
MurrayJournal.com
Page 16 | December 2014
Murray City Journal
Murray Volleyball continued from page 15 Next year, Luthy feels continuing to develop mental toughness in her girls will go a long way in helping them take that next step of making the playoffs. “We really wanted to focus on making sure these girls had mental toughness out there so that when they are two points down or game point away that they can buckle down,” Luthy said. “We want them to be mentally tough. There were times in the season where we would be 24 or 19, and all it took was one point, and we just didn’t put it down. I think that is something we would like to focus on next year. That competitive drive.”
“ I think they were really good
about being a good team and being good to each other—being accepting and inclusive which is incredibly important in a team.” Murray’s team got along extremely well this past season, and Luthy thinks that is a big reason they were so successful. She also said that’s not necessarily an easy feat with girls this age, but is very proud of the conscious effort everyone made to be good teammates. “The girls really click together. They work well together,” she said. “There was no—you know with girls you can sometimes get a little catty or petty, cliquey, leaving
Spartans volleyball saw improvement this past season which is something they hope to build on for next year. Photo courtesy of Lindsay Luthy girls out. I think they were really good about being a good team and being good to each other—being accepting and inclusive which is incredibly important in a team.” Luthy wants to let girls currently coming through junior high know how fun volleyball is and that they are
always looking for athletic and driven girls for the team. “We would like to get some girls interested in volleyball,” she said. “Volleyball is not one of those sports where you think, ‘Oh, I want to be that,’ but it’s such a fun, fun sport.” l
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December 2014 | Page 17
MurrayJournal .com SENIORS
The center would like to help you with your fitness goals: 1) Monthly Fitness Pass: Pay $30 the first week of each month and then attend as many classes as you’d like, plus utilize the exercise room as much as you’d like. 2) Sliver Sneaker: Does your Medicare supplement include the Silver Sneaker program? The center is now a Silver Sneaker location. Silver Sneaker members now receive free use of the exercise room. Bring your Silver Sneaker ID into the center and learn how it all works. 3) Select Health: Did you know if you have the Select Health Advantage plan that your wellness reimbursement will pay for exercises classes at the center? Just sign up and pay, keep your receipt and submit it to Select Health for reimbursement. They reimburse up to $20 per month or $240 per year for your health and wellness needs. So the Heritage fitness pass would only cost $10 per month after reimbursement. That’s $10 for any exercise class & the fitness room. Dec. 9, 10:30 p.m.; Free. -- Climbing The Peaks. Carol Masheter will be present a slide show about her climb of the Carstensz Pyramid in Papua Province, Indonesia. Sign up now. 12:45 p.m.; Free. -- Remembering Loved Ones – Remembering Loved Ones is a memorial celebration.. If you have lost a loved one or Heritage Center friend, come and celebrate their memory. Take this opportunity to share their stories and enjoy refreshments and music as you remember and celebrate their lives. Licensed counselors and a community educator from Serenity Funeral Homes will sponsor this celebration. Sign up now. Dec. 10, 10:30 a.m.; Free. -- Car Safety. A representative from Murray City Fleet Department will be at the center to give tips on winter car safety. Learning to winterize your vehicle is important and outfitting your car with the proper winter gear may save your life in an emergency. Sign up. Dec. 11, Jan. 15, 3:30 p.m. -- Want to Jam? Bring your instrument and jam. Past gatherings have included drums, guitar, violin and piano, with all types of music played from jazz to country. Informal and all types of instruments are welcome.
Dec. 16, Noon -- Medicare Counseling. Vickie Nelson will be available at the center for Medicare counseling. As a SHIP counselor, her job is to help clear up the confusion about where to apply for Medicare, help you understand your Medicare choices and help you understand what to do if you have other insurance. Dec. 17, 10:30 a.m.; Free. -- Hanukkah Presentation. Betty Yanowitz from Congregation Kol Ami Synagogue will be at the center to present information about the celebration of Hanukkah, the annual Jewish celebration. Come and learn about Jewish culture and traditions. The kitchen will prepare some Latkes, a traditional food only eaten during Hanukkah, for all to sample. Sign up.
Wed. - December 10 - 7 PM
WILD WEDNESDAY $2 Hot Dogs • $2 Soft Drinks $2 Beers
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Bring a stuffed animal to throw onto the ice after Utah’s first goal for children in need
Dec. 18, 12:45 p.m. -- Happy Hatters. Red Hat Society chapter meetings are held on the first and third Thursday of every month. Bunco and Mexican Train on the first Thursday; Hand & Foot on the third Thursday. Dec. 23, 10:30 a.m.; Free. Vital Aging – A Salt Lake County Aging Services and Valley Mental Health Initiative representative will be at the center to present “Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques.” Sign up.
Wed. - December 17 - 7 PM
WILD WEDNESDAY HIP HOP NIGHT
Dec. 24, 10 a.m. -- Bingo and Sing Along on Christmas Eve – Because the center will close at 1 p.m. on Christmas Eve, a short bingo has been scheduled before lunch at 10 a.m.. There will be a Christmas singalong at 11 a.m. Lunch will follow and will be served from 11:30 to noon.
$2 Soft Drinks • $2 Beers
Dec. 31, 10 a.m.; $6. -- New Year’s Eve Celebration. Come and count down the New Year early. Enjoy a special brunch, play a couple of games of bingo (with special holiday prizes), and end things with some great entertainment by “Moods N Music,” a unique group of fun-loving musicians and entertainers who specialize in music from the 1940s and 1950s. Following the entertainment, everyone will toast the “New Year” with sparkling cider at noon. Cost includes bingo, entertainment, party favors and brunch. Sign up now. Party hats and prizes sponsored by Jenkins-Soffe. Jan. 7 -- Birthday Wednesday. First Wednesday of each month. Celebrate your birthday and you could win a free lunch. The lunch is on the center if you’re turning 60, 70, 80, 90 or 100 this month. Tell them if you have reached a new decade. Jan. 15, 8:30 a.m. to approximately 7 p.m.; $17 – Wendover Trip. Enjoy a day at the Rainbow Casino. A charter bus has been scheduled for the trip. Cost includes transportation, a bonus package from the casino, a buffet luncheon, and free bingo on the bus. Sign up. Fridays, Jan. 16, to Feb. 20, 10 a.m.; $25 -- New Spanish Class. A six-week conversational Spanish class for anyone wanting to improve their Spanish skills. Cost is $25. Sign up. l
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The Heritage Center is a 55-plus recreation center for people who like to stay active, learn, get services, go places, stay healthy, play, volunteer, meet people, enjoy life and more. Lunch is served Tuesday through Friday anytime between 11:30-12:30 p.m. and you pay for your meal after picking up your food. No reservations are needed, except for special events. Options include the regular menu item, salad, Panini and sandwiches. The cost ranges from $2 to $4 for people over 55. The Heritage Center is looking for additional computer instructors. Please call if interested.
Dec. 15, 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.-- Smart Driving Class --$15 for AARP members and $20 for everyone else. Bring your AARP membership card and valid driver’s license.
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Page 18 | December 2014
Murray City Journal
MAKING HOLIDAY MEMORIES: NINE CREATIVE AND FRUGAL TRADITIONS By Joani Taylor
I
recently met a gal who told me a story about how they use their cowboy boots for Christmas stockings. This came about because, during a move to a new home, the box with their holiday decorations got lost. Instead of buying new stockings they hung their cowboy boots on the mantle and have kept the tradition ever since. When you think of Christmas traditions you might think of driving around and seeing the lights, watching a favorite holiday movie, enjoying special recipes or opening up PJ’s on Christmas Eve. Holiday traditions invoke wonderful and playful memories of childhood and help bond us to those we love. We asked our readers at Coupons4Utah.com what their favorite holiday traditions are and we got a lot of great responses. Here are a few favorites that are out of the norm and easy on the wallet. Stop a Cop: Wrap up goodies, then on Christmas Eve find a police officer or stop by a firehouse and deliver your treats, with an offer of thanks and gratitude for keeping you safe on the holiday.
Toy Clean Up: Two or three days before Christmas gather the kids and go through their toys. Place those they no longer play with in a special bag and put it under the tree. On Christmas Eve, St. Nick will take the bag and replace it with their newly wrapped toys. The toys get donated to a local shelter or care center. Table Talk: Use butcher paper instead of a tablecloth and breakout the crayons. Everyone, adults and children, writes or illustrates something on the table. It can be words of gratitude, a big announcement or sharing a goal they hope to achieve. When it’s time for dinner each person shares what they wrote. Go Camping: Camp out around your Christmas tree the night you decorate it. Tell stories by candlelight. In the morning have the same breakfast menu from year to year, like funny face pancakes or a special muffin or bread that you only make on that particular morning. Discover Your Inner Actor: Put on a holiday performance. Act out the nativity and read the story
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Winter Wonderland: Make a paper snowflake each day during December and have your child write something they are thankful for on it. Then hang the snowflakes in the window or around the house. Ants in Your Pants: Go sledding or ice skating on Christmas day after opening the gifts. This is a great way to channel the Christmas excitement into a healthy family activity. Hide and Seek: Santa’s mischievous elves hide one present for Christmas Eve. They leave treasure hunt style clues all over the house leading the way to the gift. What’s your holiday tradition? For more ideas our readers submitted visit: coupons4utah.com/traditions Happy Holidays
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Call dave: 801-455-6705
Licensed and Insured WInTer dISCOunTS! Spencer: 801-244-3542
Help WanTed
IMMEDIATE OPENINGS:
CDL-A RESIDENT DRIVERS CDL-A SHUTTLE DRIVERS Salt Lake City, UT $6000 Sign-On Bonus! $68,000 average 1st year! Salt Lake to Denver Shuttle Runs Family Medical/Dental/Vision/Rx, 401(k), Vacation, and More! CDL-A, 2 Yr. Exp. Req. Good Driving Record Apply Online TODAY!
Newlyweds Forever: Make a yearly decoration for the tree out of things you can find around the house that represents where you are in that stage of life. Your ornaments will tell a story of time as you grow your family.
laWn Care Residential Snow Removal Call Wendy 801-641-1580
drIVer...
of Christ’s birth from the bible. Then, have a gift exchange game where the gifts cannot cost more than $5.
Focus is interested in interviewing candidates for a Food Manufacturing Facility in Ogden, UT! We are looking for qualified individuals that are ready to take a step toward success and have no problem with a challenge!! Job duties: packing/
stacking, assembly, production and palletizing **All Shifts Available** Must be able to work 10-12 HR days Apply at www.workatfocus.com (select Ogden or Salt Lake Branch), in person at 1400 West 2700 North Pleasant View, UT 84404 or call 801-7860710 ext 6655 to schedule a time to come in.
Visiting Angels Home Caregivers PT/FT. Seeking experienced, mature, responsible, nonmedical caregivers and CNAs to assist elderly in their homes. www.visitingangelsutah.com
Trim & Prune. Tall weed mowing. Haul trash. Aeration. Power raking. Tilling. Lic. & Ins.
Bonus for Select Positions in SLC!
Trimming, removal, stump grinding
Murray City School District
MURRAY DISTRICT WEB & SOCIAL MEDIA Website: www.murrayschools.org Facebook: Murray School District UT Twitter: MurraySchoolsUt Instagram: SUPTHIRASE (username Steven Hirase) Alumni email: alumni@murrayschools.org General email: info@murrayschools.org
147 East 5065 South • Murray, UT 84107 Phone 801-264-7400 • Fax 801-264-7456 The Your Murray Schools section is a Murray City School District publication, under the direction of D. Wright, MCSD communications & public information.
december 2014
Spotlight On: HORIZON ELEMENTARY HIGH SCHOOL The annual Spring Carnival will be held again in May and is always well attended. The school PTA puts together many activities for the Horizon community to enjoy and 100% of the staff joined PTA this year! Great staff support, parents support and the best students around make Horizon Elementary a unique and dynamic Murray City School District school! l
Horizon Fun Run.
At A Glance... Principal: Heather Nicholas (pictured below)
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on Husk
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y 1979, increased traffic on the west side of Murray caused concerned parents to petition the school board for better safety measures. Although the board considered several options, they eventually responded by building a new school at 5180 South 700 West. During the February 1981 board meeting, the name “Horizon” was chosen and the new school was completed by November of the same year. A long enjoyed tradition at Horizon Lunch time at Horizon. Elementary is the school Bell Choir which performs at December venues with 90 at assemblies. The Fine Arts block is an bells making wonderful music. A popular emphasis for Horizon curriculum, and the school Vocal Choir also performs often Junior Achievement program allows fifth graders to attend JA City. Already this year, Horizon has held an outstanding Fun Run, which raised $7,643.26; and Back to School Night was a big success with over 800 people attending. In December, a Sub for Santa Program is conducted school-wide with SelectHealth, Horizon Elementary School is located at 5180 S. the school’s much appreciated business 700 W. (Glendon St.), Murray, UT 84123 community partner, helping with donations.
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Secretary: Caryn Waterman Secretary part-time: Ruth Riches School schedule: 8:30 AM to 3:15 PM; Wed. is Preparation Day 8:30 AM to 1:15 PM Enrollment: 700 students, K-6 Kindergarten: full & half-day Spanish Dual Immersion Program, grades 1-6 School secondary promotion: Riverview JH, Murray High Mascot: Horizon Husky School Colors: grey & maroon Year school built: 1981 Website: www.murrayschools.org/horizon
Rockin’ Around the Real Christmas Tree By Peri Kinder
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ow that we’re empty nesters, my husband has tentatively suggested that we destroy Christmas. We’ll be cuddling in front of the TV when he whispers, “Do you think it’s time we invested in a fake tree?” “No.” “But a real tree stresses you out each year.” “That’s not stress, it’s the Christmas spirit,” I reply. “I didn’t know the Christmas spirit was so grouchy.” A real Christmas tree has always been the center of my holiday decorating. Growing up, we’d hang stockings, put out Advent calendars and display nativity scenes, but the season didn’t officially start until the tree was plunked into a bucket of boiling Mountain Dew. (We had the only caffeine-addicted tree on the street.) After dad strung the lights and went to hide in his bedroom, we’d attack the tree like a whirling tornado, fighting over who got to hang favorite ornaments. Once we were in bed, mom and dad would redecorate and hang tinsel, one silvery strand at a time, on every branch. I’ve carried on that tradition (minus the tinsel that would cling to our clothes) to create our own perfect Christmas tree. Our holiday tree has never been a symbol of opulence. We’ve never had a Winter Wonderland tree with white fluffy reindeer frolicking through snowy silk ribbons, dangling with sparkly Swarovski crystals and silver-sequined snowflakes.
Instead, our tree’s branches are weighed down by homemade angels with ratted-out hair and lopsided halos, clothespin reindeers tangled around hand beaded wreaths, and South Park characters rubbing shoulders with the baby Jesus. Decades of school photo ornaments hang amid the evergreen boughs, detailing years of missing teeth, questionable hairstyles and teenage angst. And loved ones who have passed away are remembered with ornaments ranging from dancing shoes to teardrop prisms. Put together, it’s an explosion of bad taste that would make Martha Stewart cry. But it’s not just a Christmas tree—it’s a family tree representing years of holiday memories. The finished product is only half of the story. Finding the perfect Christmas tree is a tradition/catastrophe I anticipate/ loathe every December. Hence my husband’s misguided “fake tree” suggestion. He just doesn’t understand that a
plastic tree is a soulless imitation of holiday beauty, and the first step to anarchy. Each year, I schedule a day to pick out a tree, and, without fail, it’s the coldest, snowiest, iciest weekend of the month. My youngest daughter tags along to make sure I get it right and to help hold the tree on top of the car once the loosely-tied knots start to unravel—much like my mind. We scour tree lots, looking for an evergreen that is devoid of bare spots, more alive than dead and not full of spiders. (Don’t ask. It’s a horrible holiday memory.) We also try to avoid tree lots managed by the town drunk. (That’s another Christmas/horror saga involving a leering, inebriated tree salesperson with a chain saw.) Once the tree arrives safely home, we discover the 10-foot tree won’t fit into our 8-foot living room. We attack it with dull handsaws and scissors until it fits, and then, in a flurry of Christmas chaos, we adorn it with lights and ornaments, and top it with a rickety angel, balanced precariously on the highest branch. When the dust settles, we’ll cuddle by the decorated tree, watching Christmas lights twinkle while the snow softly falls. It’s the epitome of holiday perfection. Until my husband whispers, “What do you think about having Christmas dinner at Village Inn?” Could be a long, cold winter in our home. l
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