North Salt Lake/Woods Cross Journal | December 2024

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KEVIN EUBANK: THE HOMETOWN WEATHERMAN CONTINUES A TRADITION

By Tom Haraldsen | t.haraldsen@mycityjournals.com

t’s easy to assume that when you’re the son of legendary TV meteorologist Mark Eubank, it would be natural to follow in his footsteps. For Kevin Eubank, KSL’s longtime meteorologist and native of Bountiful, that wasn’t the case.

“I'm the sixth of seven children in my family,” Kevin Eubank said, “so most of my siblings are older than I am. My father had a meteorology company called Weather Bank, and a few of my older siblings actually worked for my dad's company. And so as a young kid, I knew my dad did weather and that he did radio shows in the morning from our home, and I saw him on television, but I had zero affinity or interest in the weather other than just, you know, basic family conversation.”

Kevin Eubank went to Oak Hills Elementary, Millcreek Junior High and Bountiful High, from where he graduated in 1993. He said weather was always a subject of conversation in their home.

“So I was fully exposed. I just didn't have any interest in pursuing that as a career,” he said. “And in fact, as I got into my teenage years, it was actually almost the opposite. Really. It was kind of a turn off, because my dad was so passionate about it that it was something I didn't want anything to do with.”

That changed when Kevin Eubank was serving an LDS mission in Mexico due to a tragedy he experienced.

“I served in a very rural area, and there was a dry wash that went through the area that kind of divided the community, and there was a

Continued page 14

The Eubank family, from left, are Maryn, Jensyn, Jana, Kevin, Owen and Camryn. Photo courtesy of Eubank family

Comcast’s initiatives have a broad impact across Utah

has contributed more than $5.2 million in cash and in-kind contributions to nearly 100 nonprofit partners in Utah, over the last three years. Organizations like Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind, the Alpine School District Foundation, Neighborhood House and United Way have all benefited from Comcast’s giving initiatives.

Project Up is a $1 billion program dedicated to closing the digital divide while connecting more people to the internet and creating opportunities for the next generation. Project UP supports nonprofit organizations that offer digital skills training, helping learners of all ages and skill levels to succeed in an increasingly digital world.

“With the support of Comcast, youth in our programs were able to get hands-on experience with advanced computers, guided exposure to the internet and new technologies, and about 3D modeling and other lessons that introduce youth to technology uses in many careers,” said Haylee Mathews, Boys & Girls Clubs of Salt Lake STEM Director. “The surprise of the 280 laptop computers to club members has been great for our youth to use as they learn about a variety of technology-related fields. Comcast has helped foster a culture and desire among our youth to learn more and pursue technology-related fields.”

Along with empowering communities, Comcast is helping to build a more equitable workforce by providing tech training and mentorship to underserved communities. Through partnerships with organizations like Per Scholas and CodePath, more people are mastering digital literacy.

Comcast also created more than 1,250 Lift Zones across the country, offering free WiFi access in community centers and recreation facilities. With nearly 40 Lift Zones in Utah, underserved families and neighborhoods can participate in accessing digital opportunities. Additionally, Comcast’s Internet Essentials program provides in-home broadband access for qualifying households.

Lily is an immigrant from Taiwan, assisted by the United Way of Utah County, one of Comcast’s partners. Adjusting to life in America has been challenging particularly when it comes to understanding technology. As an older woman, she said the learning curve was steep and she often felt overwhelmed in class.

“Then, during one of our sessions, I entered an old address from my childhood in Taiwan,” Lily said. “As the

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By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com

screen displayed the familiar streets and landmarks of my youth, tears welled up in my eyes. It had been so long since I had seen the place where I spent my carefree days playing. It was a deeply moving experience, allowing technology to transport me back in time and mend a piece of my heart.”

Comcast’s corporate giving plays a crucial role in helping local nonprofits fulfill their missions. It also invests in future entrepreneurs through Comcast RISE, supporting the growth of 13,500 small businesses by providing monetary, marketing and technology grants to help entrepreneurs on their road to success.

By collaborating with community partners, Comcast has fostered digital literacy and work readiness skills, giving people across Utah access to the tools they need to navigate a digital world.

“Neighborhood House families live in areas that are digital deserts and many of our families do not have access to computers for their children,” said Neighborhood House Executive Director Jennifer Nuttall. “In this age of technology, that puts our school-age kids at a disadvantage, but Comcast has stepped in to provide laptops and connectivity, ensuring that all kids have the technology they need to succeed in school and beyond. This has been enormously impactful.”

Comcast is committed to addressing the digital divide with forward-thinking programs and technology. It aims to continue building Utah’s tech landscape through valuable

Ginos | becky.g@davisjournal.com

Mieka Sawatzki | mieka.s@thecityjournals.com

Andreasen | lindsay.a@thecityjournals.com

Jason Corbridge | jason.c@thecityjournals.com

Ryan Casper | ryan.c@thecityjournals.com

partnerships, initiatives and digital support.

“Our commitment at Comcast to bridging the digital divide is evident through forward-thinking programs and innovative technology that empower communities across Utah,” said Deneiva Knight, External Affairs Director, Comcast Mountain West Region. “By partnering with nearly 100 nonprofit organizations and contributing over $5.2 million in cash and in-kind support over the past three years, we are dedicated to nurturing Utah’s tech ecosystem.

“Through initiatives like Project UP, a $1 billion program designed to connect more people to the internet and equip them with essential digital skills, we are laying the groundwork for a future where every individual has the opportunity to thrive in the digital age.”

For more information, visit Corporate.comcast.com. l

Lydia Rice | lydia.r@thecityjournals.com 385-557-1022 Rack locations

270 S. Main, Suite 108 Bountiful, UT 84010 PHONE: 801-901-7962

Comcast supports nonprofits in the state including Neighborhood House, United Way and the Boys & Girls Clubs. Photo courtesy of Comcast

Light the World Giving Machines – gift by gift we can be angels in the lives of others

By Becky Ginos | becky.g@thecityjournals.com

Theholiday season is in full swing and shoppers are rushing to find presents for family and friends. Generally those gifts don’t include goats, health care or education but those things are crucial to people in other countries. Bringing light and hope to others this Christmas season is as easy as pushing a button at a Light of the World Giving Machine and making a donation.

Giving Machines are a unique way to give much-needed goods and services directly to people around the world. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints sponsors the vending machines as a way to share the love of Jesus Christ.

A global launch of the Giving Machines initiative took place at the Conference Center on Temple Square Nov. 13.

“Eight years ago, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints extended the invitation to light the world,” said Gary E. Stevenson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. “It is an example of He who we call The Light of the World, Jesus Christ who taught us to love and serve others and find a way to feel His love as we approach the holiday season.”

It started out small, he said. “We had a few machines. Today there are machines all over the world giving people the opportunity to celebrate Christmas, to celebrate the birth of the Savior by doing what he would have us do.”

The machines will now be available in 106 cities in 13 countries on five continents – including the first in Africa and Asia, a news release said. A digital version was also

introduced and is located in Orem.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints covers all program operational expenses, ensuring that 100% of every donation is used to provide those in need with

the item a donor has purchased for them, the release said.

Since 2017, millions of items have been donated through the Giving Machines valued at more than US$32 million.

“Over the years it has evolved from a holiday message,” said Stevenson. “It’s an invitation, it’s a call to action worldwide to follow Jesus Christ, sharing light, love, kindness and service.”

There’s a magic about it, he said. “We’ve seen case after case where the small amount each person gives allows a gift that changes people’s lives. Recipients of a goat that allows them to do something they couldn’t do otherwise. At the push of a button you’re giving something meaningful in

remarkable ways.”

It’s universal, Stevenson said. “It’s for Christians, Muslims, Buddhists and those of the Jewish faith. It has no boundaries. It’s an expression of human kindness for anyone and anywhere.”

Light of the World is a message of glad tidings, he said. “Which we’re assured will bring joy to all people because of Jesus Christ – because of His birth, because of His ministry and because of His resurrection. Just as angels declared words of great joy at His birth, we too in our own small way, gift by gift, can be angels in the lives of others as we extend the love of Jesus Christ to people near and far, and as we proclaim a witness of the Savior of the world.” l

Women in eastern Kenya celebrate during the distribution of beehives to their village. The beehives are provided through the Giving Machines to Church World Service. The photograph was taken on July 31, 2023, in Garsen, Kenya. ©2023 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved.

Keona Ojelade steps up to make her choice at Canada’s first Light the World Giving Machines in Calgary, Alberta, on Nov. 29, 2022. ©2022 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved.

NSL first city in Utah to join Bolder Way Forward initiative

By Tom Haraldsen | t.haraldsen@mycityjournals.com

North Salt Lake has become the first city in Utah to endorse the “A Bolder Way Forward” initiative. The city council voted unanimously to endorse BWF at its meeting on Nov. 19. The vote came after a presentation from Dr. Susan Madsen, founder/director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project at Utah State University.

“I love living in Utah, and there’s a few areas where women really shine,” she told the council. “Our volunteerism leads the nation, and we’re 12th in terms of women’s physical fitness. But many people do not realize the struggles that women and girls have in this state.”

Madsen said she has concerns for both men and women, boys and girls, and worries about issues for both genders. She said that “when you look at life and the differences between men and women, some elements cover us all, but there are areas that we need to address separately.”

“We are ranked for 10 years in a row as the worst state for women’s equality,” she told council members. “We are the sixth worst state in terms of having victims of rape and sexual assault. We are above the national average in terms of domestic violence. One in six women in this state have been or will be raped. One in seven children will experience sexual assault. We are ranked as having the widest margin

Rancherito’s Mexican Food 2471 S. Wildcat Way, Woods Cross 801-797-5131

Rancheritosmexicanfood.com

Pfor gender pay gap in the country. We are 49th worst in terms of women and depression, and women’s preventative health care. There are things in this state that we need to change.”

BWF began in June 2023 with a seven-year goal to empower women in all facets of their lives. She said there is much good in the nation and the world, but more change needs to happen. Madsen said she subscribes to “the abundance mentality… that we can lift and be lifted. That’s what this work is all about.”

Change takes time, but Madsen said they are happening, albeit slowly.

“Some say it could take three to four decades – 30 to 40 years – to get the violence rates down and gender inequity behind us. That’s not accessible. It’s time to take ‘A Bolder Way Forward.’”

ablo and Pamela Moreno are second-generation owners/ operators of a Rancherito’s Mexican Food franchise in Woods Cross that opened on Sept. 18 at 2471 S. Wildcat Way. Pamela grew up in the Mexican fast food industry with her parents operating one of the rst Rancherito’s franchises in Utah more than 15 years ago.

The Morenos have many years of experience and are both excited to bring the franchise to Woods Cross, following Pamela’s parent’s example of hard work and dedication. What products do you o er?

We provide fast, fresh, authentic Mexican Food with dine-in, takeout, drive-thru and delivery services. We serve breakfast all day and are known for our giant breakfast burritos and loaded carne asada fries. We provide delivery service through Doordash and can take large corporate or team orders via telephone or in person. What sets your company apart from your competitors?

We are a fast-casual restaurant that is local to Utah. We’ve been around for more than 15 years. Our food is prepared to order and our breakfast burritos are served all day. We are open early in the morning and late at night, and our portions are huge! Customers can order for fast pick-up or delivery. Who is your ideal customer?

Anyone who loves Mexican food or anyone looking for a quick bite! If you are in Woods Cross and have not tried us yet, we invite you to come give us a try and hope you like what we have to o er.

We want to bring authentic Mexican food to the residents of Woods Cross and the surrounding area. We use local ingredients

Madsen said the misconception that empowering women takes away from families is untrue.

“If we empower women and men and girls and boys, we can have stronger families.We need to create change by 2030, and check in on our progress in 2026. We launched in 2023 with a goal of seven years to lead a change from outputs to outcomes. Instead of just doing programs, let’s be more strategic.”

BWF has created what it calls the Wheel of Change – consisting of five different categories and 18 spokes. Those categories are education, health and wellness, safety and security, workplace, and community engagement. The spokes represent specific actions that need to be taken. On the BWF website are a list of companies, organizations and community leaders who are supporting the initiative. Today, 250 leaders and about 4,000 individuals have become engaged in the cause, she said, with the goal of raising that to more than 10,000 by next June.

One such advocate is NSL councilmember Lisa Watts Baskin, who serves as a Champion for BWF and wrote the resolution council approved.

“I’m hoping that it will be a grassroots effort that builds naturally…it’s organic,” she said. “That is the beauty of change – when it comes naturally and not forced. Susan’s pro-

cess has also been organic. This thing has grown in a way that’s very natural and healthy. There are problems that can be solved that are measurable. As a city, we can say it is our mission to embrace this mission so that women and girls thrive.”

North Salt Lake is one of just three cities in Utah with four women on their city councils. Baskin said the idea that change is accessible “is what we’re trying to show. What I love about what we’re doing is that it’s not only advocacy, but it’s education. It’s seeking awareness and then seeking solutions. It’s a chance to change the perspective, to say that we as a community want to embrace positivity in this particular area that needs work. What I love most about this is we’re building, we’re moving forward.”

Madsen said her organization is developing metrics for cities and counties to use to measure progress. All 29 counties in Utah have created their own BWF coalitions.

Mayor Brian Horrocks joined others on the council in praising the initiative.

“We want to approve this overarching outcome, and we’re going to find our own way to do it,” he said.

Information about BWF, along with its Wheel of Change and its programs, can be found online at usu.edu/uwlp/a-bolder-wayforward/overview. l

from merchants and vendors in the community whenever possible. Customer satisfaction is important to us. We hire employees in the local community so customers are served by a friendly, familiar face.

What are your favorite menu items?

There is something for everyone. Whether it’s soft or crispy tacos, burritos, carne asada fries, tortas, nachos, bowls, enchiladas or chimichangas, we have several meat options for each item. We also have kids’ meals that feature a quesadilla, soft taco or bean burrito with rice, refried beans and a small drink. Customer favorites include the Carne Asada Fries which are french fries loaded with our delicious carne asada, guacamole, cheese and sour cream. Another customer favorite is the classic Carne Asada Burrito which has steak (carne asada), guacamole (made fresh daily) and fresh pico de gallo.

Our delicious breakfast burritos come in a variety of options: sausage, chorizo, bacon, ham, steak - or a combination of meats, plus potatoes, eggs and cheese. The portion is gigantic! We also have combo plates featuring chili rellenos, carnitas, enchiladas, birria and more.

What about desserts and drinks?

For something sweet, we have churros, an, rice pudding, tres leches cake and choco an which is a layer of chocolate cake and a layer of caramel custard.

Our drink menu includes Coke products, bottled Mexican drinks and agua in avors like horchata, strawberry, coco and pineapple.

Winners named in North Salt Lake photo contest

By Tom Haraldsen | t.haraldsen@mycityjournals.com

The six winners of this year’s North Salt Lake Photo Contest were recognized by city council at its Nov. 6 meeting. Three winners were chosen in both the adult and youth categories, and their winning photos were displayed on easels at the front of council chambers before the meeting began.

Winners in the adult contest were Clif Bradford, first place; Abel Lish, second place; and Catherine Kay, third place. For the youth category, winners were Anna Feistel, first place; Josh Warner, second place; and Brooklyn Bradley, third place.

The winning photos will be hung on the walls of city hall and will remain on display until next year’s winners are chosen. Rules and information on the 2025 contest will be forthcoming and posted on the city’s website. l

replace

Holding their winning photos are, from left, Catherine Kay, Abel Lish, Clif Bradford, Mayor Brian Horrocks, chair of the Parks and Arts Advisory Board Dallas Golden, Anna Feistel and Josh Warner. Not pictured, Brooklyn Bradley.

First place in the adult category was this photo by Clif Bradford.

The first place youth category photo was this one from Anna Feistel. Photos by Tom Haraldsen

Navigating Grief and the Holidays

By Kathie Supiano, PhD, LCSW

The holiday season is nearly upon us. This is the time of year when grieving people often feel dread and sorrow about the very events and traditions that formerly brought happiness.

As every grieving person handles loss in their own way, each one of us observes holidays in our own way in time of bereavement. There simply is no one right way to experience the holidays. Some nd meaning in following cherished traditions, and others bene t from avoiding traditions because their associations are now tinged with loss. Some people nd great comfort in being with other people, others prefer solitude to camaraderie. For all of us, how we gather is as important as gathering at all.

Plan ahead for the holidays: The rst step in planning is to listen to yourself….what will help you most at this time? You may have strong memories and powerful feelings. Accept this as normal, but prepare for it. Anticipate the pleasures and the stresses of events, and select those you want to participate in. If you expect to be lonely, arrange supportive companionship. If you can’t bear the thought of connecting with the entire extended family, let the family know of your needs. Be creative and accept support by using distance technology.

Accommodate your plans to your new limits: Most grieving people have signi cantly lowered physical stamina and emotional reserve. Perhaps you can’t get every decoration out this year. Accept these limits as temporary, and good enough for this year. Choose to put your energy into the things that matter most to you.

Accept that the holidays will be di erent this year: The holidays are often lled with unrealistic expectations that may overwhelm you. You may need to revisit your goals and nd a balance between continuity and change. Many people nd a special comfort in establishing a new holiday tradition that honors the memory of the person who died.

Recognize that other family members or friends may have struggles, too: Look for opportunities to discuss your feelings and wishes with others who may also be grieving for your family member. Try to respect their choices, if they are di erent from yours. You all may need to make compromises.

If the holidays have always been hard for you: Use this transition in your life to try something completely new…an untraditional-tradition. Perhaps you have never taken the occasion create a new experience on your own. As challenging as loss can be, it can bring momentum to grow and to try something new.

For all of us, whether the holidays are a time of personal signi cance or not, it can be a season in which we re ect on what we do cherish as we journey through grief.

Kathie Supiano, PhD, LCSW is an Associate Professor at the University of Utah College of Nursing and the Director of Caring Connections: A Hope and Comfort in Grief Program. Caring Connections is a not-for-pro t program that o ers clinician-facilitated grief support groups in Utah.

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North Salt Lake named Certified City of Kindness by One Kind Act a Day

By Becky Ginos | becky.g@thecityjournals.com

In a world full of discord, the City of North Salt Lake is aiming for kindness. Back in May, city leaders signed a resolution “encouraging and promoting kindness as a core value and integrating kindness principles.” The city was recognized on Nov. 12 as a Certified City of Kindness by the organization One Kind Act a Day (OKAAD) and First Lady Abby Cox.

“Back in the 70s scientists decided to study nutrition in rabbits,” said Mayor Brian Horrocks. “One group was fed a high cholesterol diet and there was no surprise that their arteries became clogged. In the other group there was very little. They determined everything was the same except a kind person was feeding the rabbits. They had 60% less heart disease and cholesterol problems through kindness and love.”

It’s important to embrace being kind and take that into the schools, he said. “We push for anti bullying but we’re not saying enough about being kind.”

It’s a tremendous honor to accept this proclamation on behalf of the city, said Horrocks. “The values of kindness, inclusivity, and mutual respect lie at the heart of North Salt Lake, and this recognition affirms our commitment to creating a welcoming, supportive community. We look forward to working with OKAAD to expand kindness-driven programs that reach every corner of our city.”

One Kind Act a Day is a nonprofit dedicated to inspiring a culture of kindness through its Certified City of Kindness and

Certified School of Kindness programs. OKAAD partners with communities, schools, and organizations to develop tailored kindness initiatives that foster unity, resilience, and well-being.

“Kindness is the best thing in the whole wide world,” said Curtis Bennett, Executive Director of OKAAD and North Salt Lake resident. “There’s a lot of really

Fkind people out there and we want to celebrate those acts of kindness. We’ve heard story after story about how the transformative nature of kindness changed their world. I’m grateful for North Salt Lake and that I live here. I consider kindness to be very natural to us. Why wouldn’t we do this? It’s the culture of the city.”

Many are going through angst and

are hurting right now, said Cox. “There is a lot of uncertainty and unkindness in the public sphere and on social media. We’re dealing with it with our adult brains. Can you imagine what it’s like for our children and their underdeveloped brains and what it does to them?”

Cox said she is proud of North Salt Lake for showing the opposite of negativity. “It does matter how we treat each other. How we connect with our children and how they feel about their neighbor.”

It’s hard not to feel helpless to fix the problems in the community, state and nation, she said. “It’s bad for our mental health. One kind act a day actually helps you get out of a negative place and have control over what happens. You have to be intentional about that. This isn’t fate, you community leaders have to be intentional about passing on kindness as a way of life for the next generation and leave things better than you found them.”

There’s a way to collectively overcome this angst, Cox said. “You can actually do something. Be recklessly good and you will change the world. You have the power to change your neighbors and your friends.”

Become a friend she said. “Get out there and change your city. Make your community a loving place. A place of belonging. Create it for our children and grandchildren.” l

Woods Cross updates airport zone rules for safety and compliance

By Bailey Chism | bailey.c@thecityjournals.com

ollowing the recent passage of House Bill 206 (HB 206) in the 2023 legislative session, Woods Cross City is moving to adopt updates to its city code, ensuring alignment with state-mandated safety measures around airports. HB 206 requires cities and counties with airports to establish land use regulations that create buffer zones to prevent obstructions, keeping airports secure and safeguarding nearby developments.

The Woods Cross City Council held a public hearing on Nov. 19, 2024 to discuss a proposed ordinance that would create a new Airport Overlay Zone (AOZ). This new ordinance is being proposed in response to state legislation passed in 2023, HB 206, which requires municipalities and counties with airports to adopt land use regulations that protect the airports. The proposed ordinance would replace the existing Chapter 31 of the Woods Cross Municipal Code, titled “Airport Protective Area,” with a new chapter titled “Air-

port Overlay Zone.”

The purpose of the AOZ is to protect the safety of airport users and people living near the airport. The ordinance recognizes that airport hazards can endanger lives and property, and that these hazards can reduce the area available for the landing, takeoff, and maneuvering of aircraft, as well as negatively impact the utility and investment in the airport.

Key provisions of the AOZ:

Height restrictions

● The AOZ establishes height restrictions for structures and trees within various zones around the airport. These restrictions are designed to prevent obstructions to the safe operation of aircraft. The zones include a Primary Surface Zone, Approach Surface Zone, Horizontal Surface Zone, Conical Surface Zone, and Transitional Surface Zone.

Use restrictions

● The AOZ prohibits certain land uses within a designated Runway Protec -

tion Zone (RPZ). The RPZ is a trapezoidal area centered on the extended runway centerline, and the following land uses are prohibited within it: residential uses, places of public assembly, hospitals, office buildings or shopping centers, and any other uses with similar concentrations of people.

Notice to property owners and developers

● The AOZ serves as a notice to potential developers, builders, and property owners of the FAA notification requirements for construction or alteration of structures. This notification requirement applies to any construction or alteration of a structure over 200 feet in height, and/or a structure taller than an imaginary surface extending outwards and upwards from the nearest point of the nearest runway.

Permitting requirements

● The AOZ requires permits for any material change in land use, and for the construction or alteration of structures

or trees within any of the height-limiting zones. The purpose of this requirement is to ensure that all development within the AOZ is compatible with the safe operation of the airport.

Existing and nonconforming uses

● The AOZ addresses existing uses and nonconforming uses, and sets guidelines for handling them. For example, permits will not be granted for the establishment or creation of an airport hazard, or for making non-conforming uses, structures, or trees higher or more hazardous to air navigation.

If the City Council adopts the ordinance, it will be codified in the Woods Cross City Municipal Code. The new AOZ will then take effect and the City will begin enforcing its provisions. The City will be responsible for issuing permits for any development within the AOZ. l

(Left to right) Curtis Bennett, Executive Director of OKAAD, Mayor Brian Horrocks and First Lady Abby Cox at the recognition ceremony. Photo by Becky Ginos

Protecting our wildlife – how you can help combat poaching in Utah

By Bridger Park | b.park@mycityjournals.com

Whenmost people think of poaching, they likely conjure up images of the stereotypical, Elmer Fudd-esque character, who shoots at everything that moves. People think of it as an almost old world problem. Poaching today is still very much alive and well. Poaching comes in all shapes and sizes, anything from killing a trophy moose with no tag, or a deer outside of your unit, to shooting over your limit of greenheads, or taking more than two fish from your local pond.

This hunting season has brought on its fair share of poaching cases and a spike in high profile cases.

“It takes all of us,” Davis County’s DWR Conservation Officer Brooklyn Joseph said. “The truth is there just isn’t enough of us. We need the public to get involved, and to report what they’re seeing.”

In the beginning of the season alone, from Aug. 1 to Sept. 9, DWR reported over 100 illegally harvested animals, including: nine deer, six elk, two moose, one bear, one pronghorn, 60 fish, and 25 other species of protected wildlife. Many of these animals were shot, and left to rot, which are the most heinous of offenses. A pronghorn was shot and left in Emery County earlier this season, at a time in which no hunts were active. Early in October a buck deer was shot near Bears Ears National Monument, when the only active hunts were any-legal-weapon elk hunts, and another near Enterprise was killed with a firearm in archery season. Officers discovered a cow moose this September, when its tracking collar gave a mortality signal. The cow was poached during a bull only hunt. The odious thing about instances like these, is no attempt was made to harvest antlers, let alone meat, and these cases are just a sample size.

So, what do you do if you come across poaching, or suspicious activity?

“Having a license plate number will lead us to the individual, so we can interview the person and start investigating,” DWR Capt. Chad Bettridge said. “Other helpful details include the type and color of the vehicle the person was driving, how many people were involved and a description of what you saw. And, if you can give us a GPS coordinate, that can guide us quickly to the area where the possible violation occurred.” If you come across an individual poaching, it is crucial that you help establish an identity. Getting a license plate number is the first step. If you can, getting a description of the car can help, especially if you don’t have the ability to get a license plate. It is important to do this in a safe manner, and always avoid confronting the individual.

The next step, and the one way responsible hunters can fight back, is to report poaching through one of the DWR’s four channels. You can text officers at 847411, or call the Utah Turn-in-a-Poacher hotline at 1-800-662-3337. Other options are either using the UTDWR Law Enforcement app, or reporting through the DWR website.

Poachers cast an ugly shadow on the hunting community. They get a lot of publicity, and help the anti-hunting case. There is a reason America has seen so much success in the framework of their conservation: the regulations. It’s easy to dismiss situations you come across as none of your business, or to not find it worth reporting. The truth is, it is the responsibility of every conservationist to take action, especially if you want your kids to grow up in a world where they can enjoy the same activities. l

A buck that was harvested with a rifle during archery season. Courtesy of the Utah DWR

Taking flight: Teens find community and passion in aviation photography along the Wasatch Front

Aviationphotography is a growing hobby along the Wasatch Front.

In the last few years Audrey Lee, who recently got into the hobby herself, said the interest has spiked following the movie release of Top Gun Maverick.

“It's a pretty big community,” Lee said. “I didn't realize that at first, and when I got here, you know, for me, it was just the way that I could connect with the mission and that I could connect with the aircraft that I was supporting at my day job.”

Lee moved from Connecticut four years ago and works on Hill Air Force Base as a non-uniformed general service member who writes procurement documents for the base.

She considers herself a mentor or “fly on the wall” for kids who come to the base, interested in aviation photography.

“Plane spotting is a pretty big hobby, and we’re really lucky to be at a base that’s more accessible than others,” she said. “But there are definitely still rules to keep in mind.”

She noted that she instructs other spotters that photographing any structures on the base is strictly prohibited as it can leak sensitive information.

Lee’s philosophy is that once the plane passes the fence line, spotters can snap pictures. And they do.

Jackson Wilson dreams of becoming a pilot for the United States Air Force, but if that goal doesn’t take off, he’s ready to pursue his growing passion for aviation photography.

Two years ago Wilson bought his first professional camera, a Canon EOS R10 and fell in love with aviation photography at an airshow since he “liked planes quite a bit.”

But until that point he had only looked at pictures and “scrolled Instagram looking at photos of planes.”

It was the speed aspect that caught his attention.

“I used to really be into cars because they go really fast, I’m a fan of going fast,” Wilson said. “The first time I really went to the airport, I saw a lot of really rare planes there, and I saw a bunch of F-16s taking off, and I thought it was really cool. And then from there… I guess it’s just something about it that I can’t explain.”

At 14 years old he’s building quite the aviation photograph portfolio by waking up early and spending up to six days a week capturing the rarest planes with his camera. He frequents Salt Lake International Airport and various facilities across the state known to have planes nearby.

Wilson said that the appeal of spotting is the excitement and adrenaline of capturing the perfect photo of a speeding aircraft and feeling the sense of accomplishment that comes with it..

By Rebecca Olds | rebecca.o@thecityjournals.com

“I can’t wait to get home and really look at it because usually the screen on these cameras isn’t too great,” he said. “Maybe it’s something you’ve wanted, been wanting to see for a while now, and you just did, and you got a really good photo of it.”

Since Wilson attends online school in Canyon School District and both of his parents work from home, even though he doesn’t have a license he has a ride and the time and flexibility to cultivate his photography skills.

“We’re very free to do stuff most of the time, especially throughout the middle of the week, where they’re most active flying,” he said.

His dream is to take pictures of European and Asian planes and to visit the Royal International Air Tattoo in the United Kingdom usually in June or July.

A new group known as the Wasatch Wingmen was started. It currently has 12 or 13 members – mostly kids Wilson’s age –including his new friend 15-year-old Amden Olsen. Together, they go spotting to capture sought-after aircraft and exchange photography tips and techniques.

Olsen, a Riverton resident, in addition to his time with the Wasatch Wingmen, is part of a non-government military program through the U.S. Air Force for high school students at the South Valley Regional Airport.

He has been into aviation photography for about two years, the same amount of time as Wilson, and recently started his own photography business.

Olsen participates in the Civil Air Patrol to expand his aviation knowledge and plans to become a commercial pilot.

“I just recently decided that I wanted to start preparing myself to get my private pilot’s license, so I joined [the program] to help gain a little more knowledge on aviation,” he said. “I want to go be a commercial pilot for Delta.”

He said the hardest part of spotting and getting the perfect shot is tracking.

“I’ve gotten a lot of practice in tracking the aircraft with my camera and keeping it in frame,” Olsen said. “In my viewfinder on my camera has little focal points, which I use to help. I either try to keep it on the middle one or keep it in between the circle of them.”

At the end of the day, when the spotting is all said and done, it’s really only one good shot that you need.

"Honestly, it feels great,” Olsen said. “It's probably one of the reasons I continue to do it because when you get it… it’s all about getting the good shot, right? So when you get a good shot, most people have physical excitement expressed on their bodies in some way, shape or form.”

But the beauty of photography, he said,

is that you don’t have to have a nice camera to take pictures. He started out with his phone before he upgraded to his professional camera.

“One of the biggest misconceptions about photography in general, especially aviation photography, is that you need a camera,” he said. “Even if you have a phone, you can still edit your photos and they can come out almost as good as a cheaper quality camera.”

While it’s true a phone can snap a picture or video, Lee said the best pictures require specialized equipment.

Lee said that camera gear doesn’t exist specifically for the hobby.

“In the photography world, aviation photography is not really recognized as a type of photography – there's transportation, like cars, and then there’s sports photography, which is very fast,” she said. “But, aviation photography just isn’t something that’s on a lot of camera companies’ radar.”

But she hopes that changes.

“As the community gets bigger, I feel like, they can’t ignore us forever,” Lee said. l

A400M “Atlas” on final into KSLC. Courtesy of Amden Olsen

A USAF T-38C aircraft landing. Courtesy of Jackson Wilson

The Salvation Army in Ogden prepares to help the community this holiday season

MarkKing comes from a long line of Salvation Army officers. His great-grandparents served with the organization during the Depression, followed by his grandparents and his parents served as dedicated employees. King felt a calling to serve in 1990 and became a commissioned officer in the Salvation Army in June 1997.

King and his wife Monica, also a major with the organization, moved to Ogden a few months ago to take over operations at the Salvation Army Ogden Corps at 2635 Grant Avenue.

“I felt God leading me to serve full time with the Salvation Army in both a clergy and administrative role,” King said. “We’re responsible to help facilitate and organize our social services and outreach programs. I foster and strengthen community relationships with other organizations, corporate partners and retail partners.”

The Kings operate the Salvation Army’s food bank three days a week, providing food boxes, hygiene kits, household supplies, diapers and baby formula for families in need. A clothing closet is also available for those looking for winter clothing or clothes for work.

Last year, the Ogden location helped nearly 4,000 individuals and more than 3,200 families, distributing 6,683 food boxes, 131 packages of diapers, 623 hygiene items and more than 1,000 household items like dish

soap and laundry detergent.

King appreciates community support for these donated items but asked that people be thoughtful about what they bring to the facility.

“We will not distribute or give away food items that are expired,” he said. “If we wouldn’t use them in our homes, we’re certainly not going to give them out to our clients. If you’re not eating it, you shouldn’t expect other people to.”

Known for its red kettles and bell ringers during the holiday season, the Salvation Army’s mission is rooted in service and compassion. As Christmas gets closer, the Kings want to provide toys and gifts for families who might be struggling to make ends meet this year. The Angel Tree program gives community members the opportunity to provide toys and gifts to 700 families in the area, which includes more than 2,000 children.

Angel Trees can be found at several locations throughout Weber and Davis County including Smith’s Marketplace (2434 N. 400 East in North Ogden and 1370 W. 200 North in Kaysville), TL Floor & Design (1604 W. Hill Field Road in Layton), Hilton Garden Inn (2271 S. Washington in Ogden), Walmart (221 W. Parrish Lane in Centerville) and Manheim Utah (1650 W. 500 South in Woods Cross).

Volunteers are always needed to raise money for Salvation Army programs by serving as bell ringers during the season. King said

it’s a great way for organizations, individuals and families to provide a much-needed service.

“I’m really excited that this year Ogden High School and their student government are partnering with us with bell ringing,” he said.

“They’re having an in-school competition where the classes will ring against each other. I had a floating trophy made that I will present at a student government meeting to the class who raises the most money to celebrate their hard work. The winning class gets bragging rights.”

Although the Kings are new to Utah, they are impressed with the welcome they’ve re-

ceived from the community.

“We’re excited to serve in Ogden,” King said. “We’ve met some really kind people. Other agencies have been very welcoming and supportive and quick to partner with us. We’re networking so we can fill the gaps and serve all of our friends and neighbors.”

For more information about the Salvation Army Ogden Corps, visit Ogden.Salvationarmy.org. l

New treatments can help those struggling with Seasonal Affective Disorder

By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com

As

we move into the darker months, it’s important to pay attention to mental health. Seasonal Affective Disorder impacts many people in Utah and the holidays can be hard for those who already feel unhappy or isolated.

While there are many ways to combat the effects of SAD including going outside during daytime hours, making self-care a priority, eating well, planning events with family or friends and getting regular exercise, sometimes the combination of gloomy weather and long nights makes it hard to bounce back.

For those who struggle with SAD, NeuroHealth Manager Jason Corbridge said there is help available. NeuroHealth is a clinic that specializes in treating depression and mental health issues with transcranial magnetic stimulation. Corbridge said TMS is an easy procedure with minimal side effects

“Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD, is very common in states such as Utah that see a huge swing in seasonal temperament and the holiday seasons can be especially hard,” he said. “At NeuroHealth, we specialize in treating major depressive disorder and depressive anxiety and we actively do everything we can to push the discussion of mental health, recognizing potentially harsh times and mitigating the effects of seasonal depression.”

Symptoms of SAD include low energy,

social withdrawal, fatigue and oversleeping, an increase in feelings of depression and anxiety, low energy, weight gain, trouble concentrating and even suicidal ideation.

Low serotonin or melatonin levels can contribute to SAD, as well as genetics, less sunlight, grief, loneliness and biological clock shifts. But every person is different and re-

sponds to seasonal change differently.

NeuroHealth’s groundbreaking TMS treatment is a non-invasive process using magnetic pulses to improve nerve cells in the brain.

Corbridge said TMS is an FDA-approved treatment that is easy and effective and usually covered by health insurance.

“If you are already suffering from depres-

sion and are anxiously looking at the incoming weather we are bound to get over the next three to four months, give us a call,” he said.

Because each person’s struggle is unique, the professionals at NeuroHealth make sure patients receive the individualized help they need to get through SAD. Along with TMS treatment, NeuroHealth also uses ketamine therapy in a controlled setting. Considered an emerging treatment for depression, ketamine is an option for people dealing with treatment-resistant depression.

Board-certified psychiatrist Dr. Thomas Rayner, MD, is an advocate for mental health and is one of the foremost TMS providers for the state. He is one of the NeuroHealth professionals and is committed to helping patients find their way back to wellness. NeuroHealth is located at 10437 S. Temple Drive in South Jordan. To learn more about TMS and treatment options, visit NeuroHealthUtah.com.

Corbridge said there is no reason to go through another winter season full of dread, anxiety, stress and depression.

“Come see us and let’s talk about potential treatment options that can get you to a better place before the gloomy weather rolls around,” he said. “If we can’t help you, we will get you to someone who can.” l

Studies show Utahns could be at higher risk for Seasonal Affective Disorder. NeuroHealth offers new treatments to help people regain their footing during winter months. Stock photo

flood that happened because of a large storm,” he said. “There were two little girls that were playing in that ravine, and a flood came and they died. And I remember for the first time in my life asking, number one, how did that happen, and number two, why didn't anyone tell them to get out? That's where it started to click that that's actually what meteorologists do. They talk about the weather, they warn people, they help people know what's coming. I always thought meteorologists studied the weather, which they do, but they study it so that they can then go and help people.”

When he got back from his mission, Kevin Eubank talked to his father and told him of his plan to get into the business. Surprisingly, Mark Eubank wasn’t excited.

“He told me it was a difficult business,” Kevin Eubank recalls. “He knew how competitive it was. So he kind of just said, ‘Hey, Kevin, don't judge my career as the standard of how TV meteorologists careers go.’ He'd been in Salt Lake City for almost his entire career. I thought he made it look easy, but he was like, ‘It's not easy. It's not always fun. It's very challenging.’”

Kevin Eubank knew it was what he wanted to do, so with his dad’s help, he made an audition tape at KSL, where

Mark Eubank had moved after leaving KUTV, but KSL management wasn’t interested in hiring Kevin Eubank full time. He did some Saturday morning shows as a fill-in for Kent Norton for about eight weeks. After that, he reached out to the other three TV stations in Salt Lake City looking for an opportunity.

“I met with management at channel 2 (KUTV), and they weren't interested either. But a couple weeks later, they called and said, ‘Listen, we need somebody to fill in. And we just need them to fill in for two days in the morning and noon show. So I said I’d do it.”

The first day went fine, he said, but his second day was Aug. 11, 1999–the day the tornado that went through Salt Lake City.

“I was on air at 12:42 in the afternoon when it hit,” he said. “Instead of going on air for three minutes, I was on air for almost three hours, talking about the tornado and what happened and how it all happened. Sterling Poulson was in the middle of it downtown, and he was reporting from the field, and it just gave me a lot of incredible exposure. The next day, the vice president of the TV station invited me into his office and said, ‘Hey, I'm sorry I messed up. We want to hire you to do the weekends.’ And that's how it started.”

He worked at KUTV for five years, left for a year to work with Weather Bank,

then joined KSL in 2007. He now heads a five person weather team at KSL as the lead meteorologist, and said he feels blessed to work with his fellow forecast experts.

“My family still jokes to this day that it took a tornado to get me a job,” he recalls. “The truth was nobody was interested. Here, you had Mark Eubank, who was an institution in the state, who was an incredibly great meteorologist, respected among peers and on television. And then you had little Eubank Junior coming up and no credentials, no education, no anything. More than one station said, ‘We already have a Eubank in Salt Lake doing the weather. He's really good at it. We don't need two.’ That was a motivation to me to keep moving forward. The opportunity came and it has been great ever since.”

One Eubank tradition that viewers have loved for decades is the snow coat, something Mark Eubank introduced at KUTV.

“He was on the news with Bill Marcroft, who was a sports legend, and my father had a kind of a bone colored, light colored sport coat, and he would wear that and not ever thinking anything of it,” Kevin Eubank remembered. “It was Marcroft who told my dad that whenever he wore the light jacket, it snowed. So he started to wear that lighter coat and he replaced it with a white coat, but his own rule was that there needed to be at least a 1-inch storm in the Salt Lake Valley.”

The coat became a popular topic of discussion among viewers who had mixed reactions.

“Skiers loved seeing it, while those who worked outside or had long commutes hated it,” he said with a smile. “It’s a love-hate relationship with the coat, but it’s become an expectation. And it's become more of a responsibility than I ever thought. If I’m wearing the coat, there needs to be at least an inch of snow on the valley floor.”

Kevin Eubank and his wife Jana have four children, none of whom have a desire

to make it a third generation thing.

“I think they're like I was when I was their age,” Kevin Eubank said. “They understand what dad does, they respect what dad does, but they don't have the yearning towards broadcast meteorology. And the truth is, our business is changing. Television is changing so dramatically that while I believe there will always be a place for meteorologists and on-air meteorologists, it's going to be different, already different, and it's going to continue to evolve. So my kids are great. They all are all grown and graduated from high school, and most are done with college and other things. They all live here in Utah, but no, none are pursuing meteorology as a career.”

Kevin Eubank is under contract with KSL for several more years. He and Jana are active in their faith and hope to someday serve a church mission together. For right now, he’s happy with where his professional life is focused.

“I'm 49, so I have time in front of me, and I love what I'm doing,” he said. “As long as it continues to be fun and I continue to have the opportunity to do what I do, I will continue.” l

KSL meteorologist Kevin Eubank. Photo courtesy of Eubank family

Brooklyn Joseph’s doing what she loves as a Conservation Officer in Davis County

By Bridger Park | b.park@mycityjournals.com

In a community like Davis County, which is dominated by the imposing Wasatch Front, wildlife are held in high regard. The peace officers responsible for protecting these resources are the Division of Natural Resources’ Conservation Officers, a job held in high regard in outdoor communities. One such officer, assigned to Davis County, is Officer Brooklyn Joseph. Her territory covers the entirety of the county, ranging from mountains to marshes.

Joseph knew very early on that she wanted a career in law enforcement, and her path to that role had been clear from the start.

“I grew up wanting to be a cop, I had an uncle that was a cop and I [really] looked up to him,” Brooklyn said. “I really got into hunting with my dad, and then when I realized there’s a job that combines wildlife with being a cop [I thought] ‘oh this is perfect.’”

Much of Joseph’s career has been driven by a strong desire to serve her country. She began on this path her freshman year of college, when she joined the military, enlisting in the Army National guard as an Aviation Operation Specialist, before deploying to Iraq in 2018 as a door gunner.

“I’ve always had the desire to serve,” Joseph said. “So the guard was a good fit for me.”

She completed her schooling at Utah State University, with an associate degree in criminal justice, a bachelor’s in Wildlife Ecology and Management, and just recently finished her master’s degree in Organizational Leadership, doing her capstone on the role of emotional intelligence with law enforcement leadership.

Originally from Salt Lake County, Davis County was her first choice for as -

signment and in a stroke of luck she was assigned here out of college. She was drawn to the diversity of the county, ranging from the mountains of the Wasatch, to the Marshlands of the Great Salt Lake.

“I think when some people think of Davis county, they think ‘Oh what’s out there?’” Joseph said. “I have a mix of everything – I’ve got the waterfowl, and the big game cases.”

The biggest thing Joseph has come to love during her time as a Conservation Officer, is the people, which is her strongest trait.

“It’s the people I meet, it’s the people I work with, they’re awesome,” she said.

“It’s also members of the public. Checking licenses I can go from a mom with her kids, to an older gentleman who just wants to talk about life and his experiences – everyone has a story.”

You can tell she has a genuine love for the people she’s interacting with, which is an especially important trait for a law enforcement officer. She stays very active in community outreach, and public events. She displays this with the highlights of her career, moments such as taking a veteran on a hunt, and speaking with kids.

“That’s the stuff that means something to me,” Joseph said. “Because that means I’m making a difference.”

The law enforcement side of her job also plays a huge role. In her most memorable case, Joseph was involved in the first illegal baiting. The state outlawed the practice in 2021, and the perpetrator was caught illegally luring deer with bait.

“It was really important to see that case all the way through,” Joseph said. “To help the court process. It was a new law, and they had nothing to reference. So it sets the standard for how we’re going to handle things across the state.”

At her heart, and one of the reasons she got into the career, Joseph is still a true hunter. Despite working the busy weekends, and openers, she still finds plenty of time to balance her work life with her passion, and spend her falls in the marsh, honoring the tradition she protects.

It’s a challenging, yet rewarding, job that demands a unique blend of skills, but for officers like Joseph, it’s a calling she is proud to answer. l

Habitat for Humanity expands to Davis County

The Salt Lake Valley Habitat for Humanity and Northern Utah Habitat for Humanity are expanding their reach to serve new communities.

When the Habitat for Humanity chapter serving Weber and Davis counties closed approximately 18 months ago, it left a significant gap in affordable housing support for these areas. In response, the Salt Lake Valley Habitat and Northern Utah Habitat stepped in to divide the region, incorporating Weber and Davis counties into their respective programs.

Under this arrangement, the Northern Utah Habitat chapter will assist Weber County residents, while families in Davis County will be served by the Salt Lake Valley chapter.

By Bailey Chism | bailey.c@thecityjournals.com

“We are excited to serve a broader region and partner with more communities in the greater Salt Lake area. This expansion is a pivotal step toward providing more families with the stability that comes with homeownership,” said Salt Lake chapter CEO Carin Crowe. “We are grateful for the ongoing support from our community, partners, and donors who make this important work possible. With this growth, we will be able to reach even more low- to moderate-income households in need of safe, affordable housing solutions.”

Currently, the Salt Lake Valley Habitat for Humanity provides assistance to families in Salt Lake, Tooele, and Davis counties, but this expansion has not slowed the organization’s momentum. Over the next year, it

plans to begin construction in Magna, where it owns property for approximately 30 new homes. Additionally, the chapter aims to open more ReStores – Habitat’s nonprofit home improvement stores and donation centers – and continue its Critical Home Repairs program, which helps both Habitat partners and other community residents make essential repairs to their homes.

Building homes remains at the heart of Habitat’s mission. To date, 115 homes have been completed in Salt Lake and Tooele counties, and the organization is on track to build between 10 and 20 homes annually in the coming years. This year alone, 16 homes have been built. Over the next five years, the goal is to maintain a consistent pace of constructing 10 homes annually, addressing the

growing demand for affordable housing. Families in Davis County will follow the same process as other Habitat participants. They will complete 225 hours of sweat equity – working on building their own homes – and participate in financial literacy classes. Once completed, they’ll receive a 30year, 0% interest mortgage, allowing them to move into spacious homes designed with room for their children to grow and thrive.

The new homeowners gain more than just shelter. They find stability, build generational wealth, and become part of communities where their children can make friends and families can flourish.l

Conservation Officer Brooklyn Joseph releases a pheasant in the Davis County marsh. Photo courtesy of Bridger Park

Officer Joseph: Brooklyn Joseph beside her DWR truck. Courtesy photo

National Christmas Tree stops in Salt Lake County during its 4,000-mile tour

This year’s U.S. Capitol Christmas tree made a stop at Wheeler Farm (6351 S. 900 East) where visitors could celebrate the 74-foot Sitka spruce, harvested from Alaska’s Tongass National Forest. Its visit to Murray was one of 11 stops along the 4,000-mile journey to the U.S. Capitol.

On Nov. 9, officials from Salt Lake County and the U.S. Forest Service threw a party for the tree’s arrival at Wheeler Farm with crafts, food trucks, educational booths and information about the tree’s journey. It was a chance for people to see the tree up close before it lights up the nation’s capitol.

“We are honored that the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree [stopped] at Wheeler Historic Farm on its journey to Washington, D.C.,” said Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson. “Our community loves the holidays, and we’re excited to join state, federal and community partners in celebration of this 60-year tradition that helps kick off the holiday season.”

Although the national tree has been through Utah before, visiting Ogden in 2016, it’s the first time the tree has stopped in Salt Lake County. More than 500 people showed up at Wheeler Farm to sign the tarp covering the tree, receive commemorative pins and stickers from the event and visit with the team transporting the tree to Washington, D.C. U.S. Forest Service Law Enforcement Office Trampus Barhaug was assigned to guard the tree at Alaska’s Tongass National

By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com

Forest while it was still standing and has accompanied it throughout the tour.

“Being the national tree, it’s the most important tree in the nation right now,” Barhaug said. “I love meeting all the people. Everybody’s been wonderful, both adults and kids. We thought it would be more for the kids, but the adults have been amazing. I’ll bet we’ve met 20,000 people already.”

Barhaug said schoolchildren in Alaska made more than 14,000 ornaments to decorate the tree and 41 handmade skirts were sewn by indigenous peoples in the state. The tree was scheduled to be delivered to the U.S. Capitol on Nov. 22.

Liz Sollis, communications director for Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson said there was lots of excitement around the event which was organized in collaboration with the U.S. Forest Service, Utah Highway Patrol, Salt Lake County Sheriff’s Office and other local partners. She was pleased with the turnout at Wheeler Farm and excited the county was able to be part of the national tour.

“We were really passionate about getting the word out because we know Salt Lake County is for everybody, so we wanted to make sure everybody knew about this,” Solis said. “Wheeler Farm always offers events and opportunities for learning and that’s what tonight is all about. It’s just a great opportunity for people to have fun and see the tree that’s going to be at the U.S. Capitol.”l

Hundreds of people visited the U.S. Capitol Christmas tree as it stopped at Wheeler Farm. They could sign the tarp covering the tree in the 100-foot semi-truck trailer. City Journals

Visitors at Wheeler Farm talked with representatives from federal and local agencies, made crafts, got free souvenirs and learned about the national tree. City Journals

Driving from Alaska to Washington, D.C., the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree made a stop at Wheeler Farm in November. City Journals

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints releases ‘Saints, Volume 4’

By Becky Ginos | becky.g@thecityjournals.com

Incelebration of the 200th anniversary of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the Church History Department recently announced the release of “Saints, Volume 4: Sounded in Every Ear, 1955 – 2020.” The series is available in 14 languages and spans 200 years of church history, with each volume ending with the dedication of a temple.

“We are so excited with the completion of the four volume series,” said Matt Grow, Managing Director of the Church History Department at a press conference. “In 2010 the First Presidency approved the creation of a publication of a third multi volume official history of the church.”

This four volume work, which is now available in its entirety in 14 languages, tells the history of the Lord’s work in the latter days, through the eyes of the Latter Day Saints who lived it, he said. “Taken together, these four volumes, we believe, create a vast perspective of the 200 years of history of the church.”

For the past decade and a half, a talented team of historians, writers and editors, has worked on the saints project, said Grow. “They’ve used the vast archives in this building, collected over many generations as well as records held elsewhere to tell the story of Latter Day Saints around the globe.”

“It’s exciting to see the way the volumes one through three have been received,” said Elder Hugo E. Martinez. “Millions have read them, heard them, gathered with them. It is filled with individual stories, faith promoting stories, inspiring stories and the narrative is written in such a way that it draws us into the story. I can’t help myself. I think ‘wow, what would I do if I was in such conditions?’”

Martinez said he is glad that the Lord came and taught

him the gospel with the help of two missionaries. “When he did so, I didn’t have to cross the planes, you know because Puerto Ricans don’t do well in cold weather or snow. It makes me wonder and ponder on what really drove them and my personal insight is that It was being in the presence of a prophet, leading them through the planes and thinking that families indeed could be together forever.”

“We have three cases right in the center of the main room (of the library) that have six stories sent from around the world,” said Jed Woodward, Editor, Saints Vol 4. “So all

Tof these stories are in Saints Four. We happen to have one of the characters in the book whose story is there in the cabinet here today, Isabella Santana. She hails from Mexico, but now she lives locally.”

“I was born in a small town in Mexico,” said Santana. “When I went to Mexico City we started going to seminary every day so that was very important to anchor me into the church.”

Santana said her family doesn’t know that she was in the book. “They won’t know until the Spanish version comes out, then they’ll know.”

“I started work on it in 2015,” said Scott Hales, Editor, Saints Vol 4. “I’ve watched it grow up. It was the brainchild of Rick Turley. In the mid 1990s he asked the First Presidency to approve a new history of the church. He tried for several years and it was approved in the early 2000s.”

By 2008 it was well underway, he said. “When I came on they needed someone who understood how to tell a story. Historians can sometimes be a little dry. I needed to make history more entertaining.”

It was designed to be both entertaining and instructive, said Hales. “I’m happy to see it all come together. I have immense pride in the work we’ve done. I’m a bit sad to be done with it. It’s been an exciting and inspiring process.”

“One way that we find unity is through shared history,” said Grow. “A common spiritual heritage, a legacy of faith, devotion and perseverance. It’s our deepest hope that Latter Day Saints around the world will be able to see themselves in the story and ponder how they can carry on the legacy of faith and service exemplified in our history.” l

Holiday housing woes: Creative solutions for accommodating visiting family

he kids are flying in for the holidays and excited to be together, but the family home no longer fits your growing brood. Each child now has a spouse and kids of their own. Your challenge is finding a place for everyone to sleep.

Options abound if you happen to be one of those lucky people with an unlimited budget. Why not buy a McMansion? Rent a massive Airbnb in the mountains. Add a wing onto the back of the house for $100,000 that will only get used once a year.

For those with big hearts but modest means, here are some inventive solutions to make room without breaking the bank.

• Food storage rooms and walk-in closets can be the perfect spot for a baby to sleep.

• Couches are great for kids already sleeping in beds who won’t roll off. Or put pads on the floor by the couch in case they do fall off.

• Buy an inexpensive bunkbed or two and double your bed space without needing additional square footage.

• Purchase a kiddie tent for the family room. Smaller children will be thrilled.

• Air mattresses can be made more comfortable by placing a foam pad on top.

By Gail Newbold | g.newbold@davisjournal.com

So can sofa beds.

• Scope out your camping gear with a new eye. Do you have a camp cot? Sleeping pads? Perhaps even a small pup tent for older children to sleep in?

• Maybe some parts of your basement are unfinished but could be utilized with some inexpensive purchases. One family

with a large unheated storage room bought thermal room dividers from Amazon and hung them from the ceiling to make a small, warmer space for a toddler. They used a safe temperature-stabilizing space heater, carbon monoxide alarm, baby monitor and even a portable air filter.

• Consider renting a small Airbnb

in your own neighborhood to house just some of the overflow.

• An inexpensive option is booking a nearby hotel, but Christmas is a busy time, so book early. In mid-November, the Best Western Plus Cottontree Inn just off the 2600 South freeway exit in Bountiful was offering a room with two queen beds for $124 per night over the holidays. An extra bonus is its heated indoor pool.

• Perhaps a friend or neighbor is leaving town for the holidays and would appreciate having one of your adult children housesit, water plants, and feed their pets.

• If visiting children have in laws in the area, suggest splitting the time with them and rotate your kids in and out.

• Offer to help with transportation.

• Pay for any additional lodging since your children are most likely already paying high airfares for holiday travel.

• One last and probably not very popular option is to sacrifice your primary bedroom to your adult children and sleep on a couch or even a nearby hotel, which allows you to escape the noise and chaos for a while. l

Left to Right: Matt Grow, Managing Director of the Church History Department, Elder Hugo E. Martinez, Scott Hales, Editor, Saints Vol 4, Lisa Tait, Historian and Jed Woodward, Editor, Saints Vol 4 talk about the release of “Saints, Volume 4: Sounded in Every Ear, 1955 – 2020.” Photo by Becky Ginos

Although every death is as individual as every life, knowing a few common experiences can help families endure the decline and prepare for this passing from life. Although it is hard to predict the exact time, certain changes in health and behavior can help give an idea. Jordan McLaughlin, a registered nurse, helped take care of her grandmother for the last five years of her life. “About a year before she passed,” said McLaughlin, “everything became harder, slower, took more time, she ate less, she drank less and she could help herself less.”

Activities are often avoided as death nears. Where once a daily shower was a part of everyday life, her grandmother struggled to do this basic chore. She required some assistance to do it well and as she declined, had to be supported to avoid falling. Sometimes the twice weekly shower would take all the energy she had for the day. Refusing physical therapy and avoiding most activities and sometimes not even getting out of bed for the day became the norm.

“It was interesting watching the things that used to bring her joy change,” said McLaughlin. “She didn’t really feel like her chocolate milk, or she didn’t want to eat bacon anymore, even though she used to really love those things.” She didn’t even like Coke anymore, which was her go-to drink for decades. The physical system just slowly slows down and eventually it

What to expect as death draws near

By Kerry Angelbuer | k.angelbuer@mycityjournals.com

stops altogether. The goal is not to force food at this point, but rather honor what the older adult wants. Often swallowing can become difficult, so food is not desired. Discontinuing pills that must be swallowed and choosing absorb-inthe-mouth options for the most needed drugs may be an option.

As death approaches the core body temperature can reduce by one or more degrees, or a fever can develop. “She loved her heated blanket because her body didn’t keep her warm anymore,” said McLauglin. “She wanted her heated blanket turned on all the time.” Blood Pressure and heart rate may also gradually decrease, becoming quite low in the final days and hours of life.

Look out for signs of pain in older adults. Arthritis and other injuries may begin to ache more. It can be painful to do simple things, like stand. “She was wiggly,” said McLaughlin. “Her hips and knees would hurt and become weaker and she might buckle and threaten to fall over.” Giving pain meds can be comforting and liquid meds that absorb in the mouth are available.

Not only does breathing slow but it also takes on a new pattern. Rather than breathing at a regular rate, rapid breathing can be followed by longer and longer periods of no breath. As the ability to swallow decreases, the breath-

ing becomes noisier as it is forced through the building congestion. McLaughlin thinks this is a really hard stage because she really wants to help, but recognize it is out or her hands and part of the final dance.

An older adult may become confused as they near death seeing and believing things that are not reality. They may become agitated by these fraught situations. Medications are avail-

Indoor triathlon fun for everyone

By Tommy Rivas | t.rivas@mycityjournals.com

able for this agitation. Eventually, the older adult becomes less conscious, responding only occasionally until they are no longer speaking. Hearing is one of the last senses to fade. “It was good for family to be there,” said McLaughlin. “I think it’s comforting to not be doing all the scary stuffy by yourself. It’s just a good time to be with your loved one and heaven just feels really close.” l

Have you ever been interested in trying out a triathlon but don’t know where to start? What about finding a fun winter activity or race to do with friends or family? The South Davis Recreation Center (SDRC) in Bountiful has the perfect winter race series for you. Home to the Indoor Winter and Preseason Triathlon series, the South Davis Rec Center hosts their indoor triathlon events during the heart of winter. A family friendly race series that is simple and fun for everyone. The Indoor Triathlon series is a great introduction to get a sense

of what triathlons are like, and a fun way to keep even veteran endurance athletes tuned up. All levels of athletes are welcome at this race and it’s always a good time with family and friends.

The first event in the series takes place on Dec. 7, 2024, starting at 7 p.m. at the South Davis Recreation Center. There are additional events in February and March, which make this such a great preseason series for the community at SDRC. The great thing about this race series is that all events are simply time-based events rather than

distance, and there is a generous transition period between each event. This is a simple, low-key event where your kids can participate along with you, and even with supervision if needed. All participants receive race packets with race swag and receive a customized Indoor Triathlon Collector’s mug as a token of your achievement.

As with traditional triathlons, the race starts out with swimming in the SDRC lap pool. Novice and beginner swimmers can take the shallowest lanes, and you are even allowed to walk laps in the water if you are worried about swimming. There is a judge assigned to each lane, and they simply count the lengths that you make rather than full laps. The swimming event lasts for 15 minutes and there is a 10-minute transition period before the biking portion begins. Locker rooms are provided to store your gear and get changed prior to the rest of the race.

Next up is the biking portion of the race located in the Spin classroom. Riders will be using Stages SC3 Indoor Stationary Cycle Bikes. Each heat will last for 25 minutes and volunteers will assist in getting you set up on a bike before the heat begins. At the end of the time limit, they will come to record the final distance on your bike’s Power Meters. The race will be measured to the nearest 10th

of a mile. Additionally, there will be a cycling instructor present who will keep things running, ensure the proper sizing of bikes, and recording results. There is usually music playing and lots of energy during this part of the race which adds to the excitement.

Once cycling is finished, it is time for the final event, which is the run segment. There will be a 5 minute transition period to get up to the indoor track. The racers will continue through the final event on a 20-minute timed run. Laps are counted via a timing system, and your bib will contain a chip that will count the number of laps that you are able to make on the track. The track is friendly, fast, and has a walking lane to keep things moving and enjoyable for all. At the end of the time limit the number of laps will be added for the total distance. Results are usually available by the next day. All the heats are broken into groups with different time slots which help keep things moving quickly and make the races feel more approachable. The Rec Center even offers a preview and walk-through the day before to help you get more familiar with the facility ahead of the race. Check with South Davis Recreation Center for more information. l

Drawing nearer to death can be difficult for the older adult and the family. Staying close can make it better. Photo by Chelsea Kephart

6 unique shopping experiences for the holiday season

By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com

Holiday shopping often brings loads of stress as you try to find the perfect gift for that special person. In Davis County, there are many shops, boutiques and specialty stores where you can find unique gifts at affordable prices. Here are just a few fun places to visit during the Christmas season.

Whisperwood Boutique, 82 S. Main Street, Bountiful

This whimsical, unique shop on Bountiful’s Main Street has something for everyone on your list. Beauty and body care, fashion accessories, books and journals, fun treats and kitchen items are just a few of the items available in the shop. If you’re hosting a party, Whisperwood Boutique offers tasty dip mixes, a variety of salsas and Ariston olive oils and balsamic vinegars in dozens of flavors. You’ll also find cute pajama sets, seasonal decor and lotions, soaps and car diffusers from Taylor’s Provisions. Browse products at Whisperwood. Shop.

The Hive Winery, 1220 W. 450 North, Layton

This small boutique winery offers locally-made non-grape fruit wines (meads and melomels), hard apple ciders, specialty spirits

and brandies. With the state’s smallest commercial still (25 gallons), The Hive Winery considers itself a “nano” distillery, producing less than 30 barrels annually. Its award-winning items include limited-time seasonal products like cranberry wine, blackberry stinger cider, peach cobbler wine and Sunny’s Pear Licker. The Hive Winery offers tastings, tours, classes and recipes at TheHiveWinery.com.

Fadel’s Fine Jewelry, 451 S. Main Street, Bountiful

If you’re looking for something truly beautiful for the ones you love, Fadel’s Fine Jewelry is a must-stop shop. Founded by Dave Fadel in 1986, the jeweler’s mission is to offer competitively priced, stunning and unique jew-

elry pieces. The store features bracelets, necklaces, rings, earrings, pearls and estate jewelry in a range of designs. Wearing statement jewelry is a way to reflect the wearer’s individuality and style. Dave can help you find the perfect piece or help you create a custom-designed item. Jewelry repair is also available. Discover more at FadelsFineJewelry.com.

Mrs. Cavanaugh’s Chocolates & Ice Cream, 835 Northpointe Circle, North Salt Lake

Locally owned and operated, Mrs. Cavanaugh’s hand-crafted chocolates have been a holiday staple for more than 50 years. With several stores along the Wasatch Front, you can easily find family favorites like toffee, caramels, clusters, crèmes, truffles and fudge. Seasonal products like sandwich mints, chocolate truffle reindeer and white chocolate caramel snowmen are fun to have available for neighbors and friends. The North Salt Lake factory offers tours Monday through Saturday, by appointment only. For more information, or to shop online, visit Mrscavanaughs.com.

Locals, 1201 N. Hill Field Rd., Layton

With a commitment to supporting local

talent, Locals is a popular stop for people looking for handcrafted products from crafters, creators and artisans in the area. Locals has unique seasonal decor and holiday items, plus greeting cards and gift bags. There’s also a fun selection of jewelry, lotions, clothing, candles, soaps and accessories. The store carries favorite brands like Utah Roots caps, Klani bracelets and Delectable Additions gourmet food mixes. Learn more at LocalsGifts.com.

Sweet Cake Bake Shop, 96 S. Main Street, Bountiful

If your loved one has a gluten intolerance or allergy, Sweet Cake Bake Shop is a dedicated gluten-free bakery offering amazingly delicious items. After Allison Regan was diagnosed with celiac disease, she was determined to create gluten-free favorites that weren’t dry and crumbly. Her recipes include fluffy cinnamon rolls, soft cookies and bars, flavorful cupcakes and mouthwatering pies. She also creates cakes for any occasion and seasonal favorites. Many of her products are also dairyand nut-free. Visit SweetCakeBakeShop.com for more information.

When the family is big, keep the traditions simple

Christmas traditions are as varied as the families who keep them and can often change as families grow and change. “When my kids were young,” said Julie Murdock, “we always had a Christmas Eve dinner followed by a nativity play with the kids.” A movie earlier in the day on Christmas Eve would keep the kids occupied as Christmas excitement built. When Blake Murdock was called as a Mission President for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the couple left most of their family to serve for a few years and all the remaining kids had to carry on with what traditions they wanted. Upon returning home, the Murdocks had to explore, “How do we fit in now?”

With 45 grandchildren, purchasing a gift for each becomes next to impossible. Julie solves the difficulty by giving the same amount of money to each child’s family around the first of December. The parents then decide whether to use the money for a larger family gift or to purchase gifts for each child. One large family was able to purchase a ping pong table with the money while another chose to have the money go toward Lagoon passes for the family. Since Julie takes each grandchild out shopping and dining on their birthday, and she has 10 grandchildren with birthdays in December, she needs to keep Christmas shopping to a minimum. In fact, one of the daughters is given a budget and

By Kerry Angelbuer | k.angelbuer@mycityjournals.com

buys gifts for all 10 children and the parents to be shared after Christmas Day dinner.

Julie provides the ham and potatoes for the Christmas Day dinner and then the rest of the attendees coordinate on “GroupMe” what they will bring. Often a certain child will bring the same dish each year, like the daughter that has perfected the rolls. Having her celebratory din-

ner not on Christmas Eve or morning, allows her whole family to get together. Afterward, the family usually just hangs out or plays some games like quarters or minute to win it.

Another tradition that the family will not let go of is the decorated cookie tree that is assembled the weekend after Thanksgiving. This involves taking some floral wire and looping

and twisting it through the cookie cutter sugar cookies before baking. The wire bakes right in. Afterward, the cookies are frosted and decorated before hanging them on the tree. Although a few kids have stolen a cookie or two off the tree, they are usually tossed at the end of the Christmas season as they are still pretty but not fresh.

On New Year’s Eve, the 65 family members get together again for food and fun. They watch the ball drop on TV followed by kissing. The kids bang pots and pans on the deck making as much noise as possible. Julie worries about the already sleeping neighbors who might be woken up, but curbing the excitement is not done. Since Julie had a brother who is anti-fireworks because of his work in the fire department, they honor his legacy and avoid using fireworks as part of their celebration. Blake and Julie met in Clearfield, Utah in the fourth grade and have lived in Bountiful since 1984. They have 10 children and 45 grandkids and counting. The oldest grandchild has just married and they are hoping to break 50 soon. Julie is often asked how she does it all, and she responds that she doesn’t. She only does what she chooses to do and practices “selectful neglect” for the rest. “Keep it simple,” said Julie. She believes no one has suffered because she thoughtfully let go of some traditions that she chose not to keep up with. l

Make holiday shopping a fun adventure by visiting local shops and boutiques in Salt Lake County.

(Stock photo)

Julie and Blake Murdock’s family after a dinner late on Christmas Day avoiding the busy Christmas Eve and Christmas morning activities. Courtesy Photo

special Kid Scoop Thanksgiving page is designed for you to do with a friend or family member. So find someone to share the fun!

Have your partner use a RED crayon and you use a BLUE one. Which turkey will reach the finish line first? On your mark, get set … GOBBLE!

Who can nd the most turkey feathers on this page in 60 seconds?

Find the turkey that is different.

All of these words start with the letters P-I. Read the clues and work together to fill in the

A heavy musical instrument with keys.

A small cucumber preserved in brine.

A meal packed to eat outdoors.

A person who robs ships at sea.

A platform over water that starts at the shore.

You use a BLUE crayon and your opponent uses a RED crayon. Take turns connecting two dots each time. The person who completes a square gets one point. A square with a football helmet in it is worth three points!

Standards Links: Vocabulary: Identify rhyming patterns and words. Browse the newspaper for 10 words that would make good halves of a rhyming pair. Then have your partner scour the newspaper for words that rhyme with each of the ones you chose. Switch roles and try it again.

Practice saying Thank you in seven different languages! Match the Thank you to the country from which it comes.

Tak (tak)

Gracias (gra-see-us)

Merci (mehr-see)

Kiitos (kee-toas)

Danke (dahn-kah)

Arigato (ahree-gah-tow)

Dziekuje (dsyne-koo-yeh)

TOGETHER CUCUMBER PUMPKIN PARTNER MUSICAL FAMILY TURKEY BRINE SHORE WATER SHARE HOUSE CLUES PIE

Find the words by looking up, down, backwards, forwards, sideways and diagonally.

After Dinner Bingo

After dinner, take a stroll around your neighborhood with friends or family members. On this walk, each of you take one of the cards below and cross out items as you see them. First one to black out the card wins!

Black

Friday

The day after Thanksgiving is usually the busiest U.S. shopping day of the year. Imagine you have $100 to spend. Look through today’s newspaper and list what you’d buy. Did your partner choose any of the same items?

Standards

am thankful for …

What people, places and things are you thankful for?

With hundreds of topics, every Kid Scoop printable activity pack features six-to-seven pages of high-interest extra learning activities for home and school! Get your free sample today at:

© 2024 by Vicki Whiting, Editor Je Schinkel, Graphics Vol. 40, No. 52

TELEVISION GUIDE

Monday

The Neighborhood (2) KUTV 7 p.m.

Dave Johnson (Max Greenfield) and his family find their new community in Los Angeles to be a significant departure from what they were used to in their small Michigan town. However, their neighbor (Cedric the Entertainer) has some concerns of his own.

Superman & Lois (30) KUCW 8 p.m.

The past four seasons have given viewers a gritty look into the lives of Clark (Tyler Hoechlin), Lois (Elizabeth Tulloch) and twins Jonathan (Michael Bishop) and Jordan (Alex Garfin). However, this series finale may just be our kryptonite.

Tuesday

CMA Country Christmas (4) KTVX 7 p.m.

It’s the gift that keeps on giving as hosts Trisha Yearwood and Amy Grant welcome performers, including Jordan Davis, Lady A, Ashley McBryde, Jon Pardi, Lindsey Stirling, The War and Treaty, Zach Williams and Lainey Wilson, to Nashville for Christmas.

Accused

(13) KSTU 7 p.m.

The season finale of this thrilling anthology series follows defendants as they go through criminal trials, examining how one small mistake can snowball into a horrid series of events from which there is no return. Can the ends justify the means?

Wednesday

92nd Annual Christmas in Rockefeller Center (5) KSL 7 p.m.

If a tree can make it here, it can make it anywhere. The 92nd annual tree lighting in Rockefeller Center jumpstarts the holiday season with spectacular lights, musical performances, star-studded surprises and more. Kelly Clarkson hosts the festivities.

The Summit

(2) KUTV 8:30 p.m.

This season finale answers once and for all which of the 16 strangers finish their 14-day struggle to cross New Zealand’s treacherous Alps in hopes of sharing an equal part of the $1 million split across their backpacks. Manu Bennett hosts.

Thursday

After the First 48

A&E 6 p.m.

A rookie homicide detective in Atlanta uses her own tragic life experiences to help crack the case of a young father who was shot to death. When the case heads to trial, the prosecution depends on a witness struggling with survivor’s guilt.

Matlock

(2) KUTV 8 p.m.

Julian (Jason Ritter) brings Matty (Kathy Bates) onto the case of a young woman who is suing due to severe symptoms brought on by a clinical trial. Then, at the firm’s annual holiday party, Olympia (Skye P. Marshall) learns something about Julian’s past.

Friday

WNBA Expansion Draft: Golden State Valkyries

ESPN 4:30 p.m.

New WNBA expansion team the Golden State Valkyries will select one player from each of the 12 existing teams to build their new club during this expansion draft. As part of the proceedings, each team names six protected players who are off limits.

S.W.A.T.

(2) KUTV 7 p.m.

With two episodes left until the show’s 150th episode, can Daniel “Hondo” Harrelson (Shemar Moore), leader of the LAPD’s S.W.A.T. unit, keep his loyalties in check? With lives at stake, Hondo needs to properly balance these some times-opposed loyalties.

Lopez vs Lopez (5) KSL 8:45 p.m.

George (George Lopez) puts aside his feuding with daughter Mayan (Mayan Lopez) to settle a feud with Jolly Old St. Nick that stretches all the way back to George’s childhood. Meanwhile, Mayan tries to find the perfect gift for Chance (Brice Gonzalez).

Monday

(4) KTVX 8 p.m.

Press Your Luck

Saturday

2024 MLS Cup (13) KSTU 2 p.m.

After a grueling playoff bracket, it comes down to the remaining two teams to compete for the top prize in Major League Soccer, the MLS Cup. With defending champion Columbus eliminated in the first round, a new champion is guaranteed.

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation

AMC 6 p.m.

Clark Griswold (Chevy Chase) wants to have the perfect family Christmas. From decorating the house to getting the right tree, everything looks great until Cousin Eddie (Randy Quaid) and his family show up unplanned and his holiday bonus gets downsized.

Sunday

Rachael Ray’s Rebuild

A&E 9 a.m.

Rachael Ray and Anthony Carrino team up to help families rebuild their homes following disaster in this heartwarming reality show. This time, Ray and Carrino help the Thomas family rebuild their two-story house after it was levelled by a F3 tornado.

2024 World Champions Cup (4) KTVX 11 a.m.

The final event of this PGA Tour sanctioned event airs tonight, broadcast live from The Concession Golf Club in Bradenton, Fla. All three of last year’s captains return, including Jim Furyk, who led Team USA to a win at last year’s inaugural tournament.

7 p.m.

Christmas cheer is nowhere near the top of mind when Robyn (Queen Latifah), Marcus (Tory Kittles) and Miles (Stephen Bishop) find themselves in the middle of a hostage situation after the local hospital gets taken over by a

Celebrity Profile

By Jay Bobbin TV Media

If you’re a Primetime Emmy winner whose fellow-winner wife has the title role in a hit series, it’s probably just a matter of time until you appear in that show.

So it is for Michael Emerson, who joins spouse Carrie Preston (“True Blood”) in a recurring role in CBS and Paramount+’s “Elsbeth,” starting Thursday, Dec. 12. He plays Milton Crawford, a judge from a storied family who takes his place in the legal community — and, from his view, in society in general — extremely seriously. Inevitably, that makes for some interesting encounters when he crosses paths with attorney Elsbeth Tascioni (Preston), who can seem flighty while harboring her own keen mind for the law as she works with the New York City Police Department.

Working on “Elsbeth” reunites Emerson with executive producers Robert King and Michelle King, for whom he acted in the series “Evil,” which started its run on CBS and concluded on Paramount+. It’s a professional reunion for Emerson with his wife as well; he met Preston when they were in an Alabama production of “Hamlet” — they also did a staging of “Love Letters” later — then she played his mother in flashbacks in ABC’s “Lost” and his ex-fiancée in CBS’s “Person of Interest.” He was also in an episode of her TNT show “Claws,” and they made the movies “Straight-Jacket” (2004) and “Ready? OK!” (2008) together.

Imagine if WHAMMYs could show up during the holiday season, waiting for just the perfect time before striking after players receive the best gift ever. No need to imagine as a brand-new holiday-themed episode of “Press Your Luck” brings three contestants to the verge of tears Monday, Dec. 2, on ABC.

Emerson earned the second of his two (to date) Primetime Emmys for “Lost,” in which he played Ben Linus, the leader of a group on the island where plane-crash survivors were stranded. Eight years before that, he won his first Primetime Emmy for another ABC show: “The Practice,” in which he guest-starred as a serial killer.

Angels from the realms of glory (better have their papers)

Near the twinkling Christmas trees, pine-scented candles and brightly-wrapped packages, most homes in Utah display a Nativity scene. It might be made with Star Wars characters or garden gnomes, but it usually includes wise men, shepherds, Mary and Joseph, and an angel hovering near Baby Jesus. If you have children, the crèche could also include stuffed dinosaurs and a Barbie.

It’s a peaceful tribute to the beginning of Jesus’s mission, right before the dastardly King Herod (threatened by the prophesied birth of a new king) proclaimed that every male child under 2 must be put to death. (I’ll bet he was a blast at holiday parties.)

Being warned by an angel, Mary and Joseph fled with toddler Jesus to Egypt where they lived for several years.

But what if the story had been different? What if the Holy Family arrived on Egypt’s border, where someone had built a big wall? What if the Egyptian border czar said, “Nah. We don’t like refugees. They ruin our economy. Go back where you came from.”?

The New Testament would be a lot shorter.

Utah has more than 300,000 refugees and immigrants living in the state; almost 9% of the population. Maybe we could

Peri Kinder

Life and Laughter

consider this percentage of immigrants a tithe offering where we dedicate ourselves to treating them with love and respect, and not actively try to evict them from the inn.

Refugees are survivors of wars, often fleeing for their lives, leaving everything behind, exactly like Jesus’s family. Immigrants want safety for their families and dream of American opportunities. Didn’t we learn in church we’re all children of God? Maybe I misunderstood.

Utah is a shining example of how to assist these populations. There are programs to help refugees get jobs, learn English, finish school and raise their families. Many immigrants own businesses, pay taxes and contribute to our healthy economy.

But a large faction of the United States agrees mass deportation is a great idea. We can have a country without immigrants or we can have a strong economy. We can’t have both.

Unfortunately, brotherly love doesn’t fit today’s immigration narrative which is that refugees are ruining the country. Words like “diversity” and “inclusion” have become MAGA kryptonite. Have we forgotten Jesus taught that loving each other was one of the greatest commandments? Was there a disclaimer I missed that excluded people who weren’t born in America?

If Jesus was here, he’d be flipping tables and fashioning cords into a whip. He would call us hypocrites for not showing compassion to those who are suffering. Instead, we offer harsh judgment, condemnation and close our communities to shelters. Who are we?

There’s a story of a family who was very hungry. The grandmother took a big cooking pot into the front yard, placed it over a fire, filled it with water and plunked a stone into the pot.

Neighbors asked what she was making. “Stone soup,” she replied. Soon, everyone wanted to add something to the soup. One person brought carrots, another brought chicken. Someone added pasta. Yet another brought spices and salt. In no time at all, they had a big pot of soup to share.

In many ways, society is breaking. Rules and common sense seem arbitrary.

People want to pick ingredients out of this huge melting pot of America, this pot of soup, as it were, and toss them away. Immigrants add flavor to our communities. They add variety and culture and spice. If you take out all the ingredients, you’re left with a pot of hot water and a heart of stone. l