South Valley December 2015

December 2015 | Vol. 25 Iss. 12

FREE

Sweet Treats Donated to Troops Overseas PAGE

By Rachel Hall

4

Children and adults of all ages sold their candy for $1 per pound to Dr. Chase Dansie of Dansie Orthodontics, who then packaged it up and mailed it to Operation Gratitude for the troops overseas.

PAGE

2

PAGE

16

Scan Here: Interactive online edition with more photos.

PAGE

18

PAGE

20

“We are trying to show people that it is okay to stand up for who you are. You are the only version of you,� page 14

Local Postal Customer ECRWSS

Presort Std U.S. Postage PAID Riverton, UT Permit #44

local life

Page 2 | December 2015

SOUTH VALLEY JOURNAL

.

Scrooge and Second Chances

By Alisha Soeken

I

THE SOUTH VALLEY TEAM

n the timeless tale of “A Christmas Carol,” form. After auditioning many times, I was cast can imagine that’s not much time, so the work Ebenezer Scrooge, a callous miser, is given in “The Hungry Games,” fulfilling my dream, is fast and furious. It’s a challenge but like it or a second chance to live a better life. The Desert almost 10 years after I started working there. I not, it makes you a better performer.”

Star Playhouse in Murray City was also given also gained experience in light and sound unAs proven by Williams, cast members are a second chance at life when it was purchased matchable to any theater, made lifelong friends not only great performers. “I wear a lot of hats and renovated instead of being torn down. Be- and to this day love seeing the fun shows they at the Desert Star. I design scenery and props for fore that purchase the thethe shows, I occaater saw much of life and sionally run lights, many second chances. do sound, and manThe Desert Star age the stage. I’m Playhouse has enjoyed a also in charge of the long life. In it’s infancy general store and it was called the Gem. It all the holiday decsaw silent movies accomorations and lobby panied only by a piano, displays,” Williams and remembers a world said. when radios, refrigerators Unlike what and a woman’s right to Williams and Larvote were only a recent rinaga will do in luxury. their show, Charles In the 1930s the Dickens never Gem had it’s first second told of the life that chance, as it was rebuilt Ebenezer Scrooge and expanded into the lived after receiving Iris Theater. With its Art his second chance.

Deco style facelift, it was The Desert Star was a building like no othgiven that chance er in Murray. It showed Dan Larrinaga, Ivin Conatser, Lee Daily, Ed Farnsworth, Jennifer Aguirre, and Kerstin Davis. Photo courtesy of more then once, blockbusters like “Gone Desert Star Theaters and for more then With The Wind” and rare 85 years has seized Swedish films for imit, as Scrooge did, migrants brought to Murray by the smelters. put on,” actor Katie Terry said. to give of itself remarkably to others.

The Desert Star’s current show is, During the Great Depression, owner Tony DuVisit that historic building, watch a show, vall would let children see movies for free or “Ebenezer Scrooge: His Nightmare Before laugh, and in the words of Larrinaga, “By the Christmas.” It’s about Ebenezer’s life after he end of that show, I hope people will simply in exchange for scrap metal.

After the Great Depression, the Desert decides to reform. have been entertained, feeling better than when “I love the idea of a sequel to ‘A Christ- they came in, and perhaps finding themselves Star continued to see change in its name and ownership. But in 2000 when Murray City mas Carol,’ exploring the other side of being more in the mood for the holidays. Catching a recommended demolishing it, Mike and Alyce generous. The idea that just because you turn bit of the Christmas spirit that people felt way Todd gave it it’s most crucial second chance, into Mr. Nice Guy on one Christmas morning back when, and now, as they read Dickens’ ‘A l doesn’t necessarily make up for years of be- Christmas Carol’.” by purchasing and saving it from demolition.

The value of a second chance is immea- ing a compete jerk,” cast member Dan LarriEbenezer Scrooge: surable, if seized as Scrooge did to become a naga,who plays Bob Cratchit, said.

HIS NIGHTMARE BEFORE CHRISTMAS The effort that goes into producing a show better person. Today the Desert Star is a dinner Plays November 12, 2015 theater known for its parody plays and family at the Desert Star is enormous. Cast member through January 2, 2016 -friendly comedy. The proof of its positive roll Tyrus Williams said, “We start working on all Tickets: is observed in the lives of those who work at aspects of the show five weeks before we open, Adults: $22.95-$24.95, Children: $12.95 and have 15-20 rehearsals,” Larrinaga added,. the theater, both past and present.

4861 S. State Street, Murray, UT 84107 “The Desert Star has made a positive im- Because we rehearse while the current show Call 801.266.2600 for reservations pact on my life in so many ways. It was my is still in production and the new show opens www.DesertStarPlayhouse.com first job and where I had always hoped to per- only four days after the old show closes, as you

Staff Writers: Greg James, Aimee L. Cook and Briana Kelley Ad Sales: 801-264-6649 Sales Associates: Ryan Casper: 801-671-2034 Melissa Worthen: 801-897-5231 Circulation Coordinator: Brad Casper: Circulation@mycityjournals.com Editorial & Ad Design: Trevor Roosa, Ty Gorton

G

ranger Medical Clinic is pleased to announce the recent appointment of Denise Morita, MD to the national Association of Creatine Deficiencies Scientific and Medical Advisory Board.

Creatine deficiencies are a rare but treatable cause of developmental delay, seizures, movement disorders and intellectual disability in infants and children and are one of the ‘mimics’ of autism.

Creatine is necessary to increase adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which provides energy to all the cells in the body. Without enough creatine, the brain cannot function or develop normally.

“Children diagnosed with autism may actually have a creatine deficiency instead of ‘just’ autism. Utah recently added testing for creatine deficiency to our newborn screening panel, so hopefully we will be able to identify affected children earlier, initiate treatment and prevent the worst sequelae,” reported Dr. Morita.

Denise Morita, MD, is board certified in Neurology with Special Qualification in Child Neurology (2009). She earned her medical degree from the University of Washington in Seattle, WA (2002) and has been with Granger Medical Clinic since February 2014 Dr. Morita sees patients in the pediatric neurology department at Granger Medical Clinic locations in both Draper and Riverton. Appointments with Dr. Morita can be scheduled by calling 801.432.3000 For more information, visit http:// creatineinfo.org/smab or www.grangerl medical.com

m i ss i o n s tate m e n t

Creative Director: Bryan Scott: bryan@mycityjournals.com Assistant Editor: Rachel Hall: r.hall@mycityjournals.com

Dr. Denise Morita Named to National Advisory Board

The South Valley City Journal is distributed at the first of each month directly to residents via the USPS as well as locations throughout South Valley. The South Valley Journal covers news for Herriman, Bluffdale, and Riverton

Our mission is to inform and entertain our community while promoting a strong local economy via relevant content presented across a synergetic network of print and digital media.

For information about distribution please email delivery@myutahjournals. com or call our offices. Rack locations are also available on our website.

free . community. papers .

For subscriptions please contact: delivery@myutahjournals.com The views and opinions expressed in display advertisements do not necessarily reflect or represent the views and opinions held by Loyal Perch Media or the City Journals. This publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the express written consent of the owner.

South Valley Journal 8679 South 700 West Sandy, UT 84070 Phone: 801 264 6649

designed, published & distributed by

S outhV alley Journal.Com

December 2015 | Page 3 .

draper’s longest running

Up To 50%

oFF Retail

car dealership

Largest Selection of Apple Computers & Beats Headphones Free

e y B oa WIreleSS K uSe o and M

$349.00

rd

Apple 20” iMac All in One Desktop Computer • 4GB RAM, 250GB Hard Drive • Built in Wifi, Bluetooth, webcam, CD/DVD Player/Burner • Mac OS 10.11 El Capitan • Certified Preloved

No pressure sales team. Why are we different? Our salesmen get paid the same on any car they sell. It doesn't matter if the car is $5,000 or $50,000! We will never push you to buy a car you don't want.

What Our Customers Are Saying...

$449.00

I have had an amazing experience with this dealership! A few months after I bought my car from them it started having some problems, but when I called them and told them this, they went above and beyond in helping me fix my car! They are so friendly, and very helpful (especially the manager of the store, Dan)! I highly recommend buying from them, I have experienced nothing but exceptional service! —Alyssa Duenes

• Mac OS 10.11 El Capitan • Certified Preloved

It was great! Very kind people gavin and josh helped us and got a deal i wanted love my new car :) service is great and their dealership is very clean too :) thanks guys! —Heather G

We TaKe TradeS!

Apple iPad Generation 2

Apple MacBook Pro Laptop • 13.3” Screen • 4GB RAM • 250GB Hard Drive

Hours: 10am - 9pm Monday - Friday

801-523-7540 • West 12300 South Draper Utah Just off the exit at 12300 South (Exit 291)

$159.00 • 16GB • Built in Cameras • Generation 2 • iOS 9 • Certified Preloved

855-599-MACS ( 6227 )

9235 S. Village Shop Dr. • Sandy, UT “In the Quarry Bend Shopping Center”

www.mac-warehouse.com

rivertonhospital.org

facebook.com/rivertonhospital

.

on the cover

Page 4 | December 2015

SOUTH VALLEY JOURNAL

.

Sweet Treats Donated to Troops Overseas

Now offering 3D & Gender check Ultrasounds T

he holiday season is a time when people not only show their gratitude, but also go out of their way to brighten someone else’s day. With the help of the community, Dr. Chase Dansie, of Dansie Orthodontics in Herriman, collected nearly 140 pounds of candy as part of Operation Gratitude.

“We had people come from all over the valley to donate. Quite a few just donated without the buy back. It was great to see the support for the troops,” Dansie said.

Dansie offered patients and community members an opportunity to sell their Halloween candy to him for $1 a pound, up to three pounds, until the office reached a goal of 500 pounds to package up and ship to troops overseas.

Giving back to the troops is just one of the ways that the program was a success. Kids who volunteered to donate their candy are also less likely to develop cavities or break the brackets on their braces.

“There are certain candies okay to eat with braces on, but the harder candies – if you eat them with braces on – it breaks those brackets off of them,” Dansie said.

However, most kids aren’t as concerned about the dental side effects as much as they are the taste when it comes to eating candy.

That’s why Dansie believes those who donated were doing it as an act of kindness straight from the heart.

“The greater motivation is to help someone else and being since it is for the troops, I think that has resonated with them the most,” he said.

Choosing to give back to the troops overseas with this special project was also motivated by Dansie’s time spent living abroad.

“The big reason about sending it to the military is because I’ve lived abroad. When you’re far from home and it’s the holidays especially, it gets to be pretty lonely. And then you start thinking of home and everything,” he said.

Memories of finding a Twix candy bar

For much less than mall prices!

AVAILABLE FOR PATIENTS AND NON PATIENTS

Sue Anders, MD

Jeffrey Quinn, MD

Robert Merrill, DO, MD

David Matthews, MD

Tina Goldsmith, MSNP

Diane Heubusch, CNM, FNP

SERVICES OFFERED: Obstetrics normal to high risk pregnancy Annual wellness exams Wellness care (disease prevention, exercise, nutrition) Menopause and Hormone replacement therapy

FREE

3D Ultrasounds

with all new obstetrical patients

$150.00 Value New Patients Only. Some restrictions apply.

By Rachel Hall

Infertility & Reproduction Care Contraceptive Counseling IN OFFICE PROCEDURES: Permeant sterilization, Heavy menstrual cycles & Intrauterine insemination

$10 OFF Gender Checks

when living in Brazil is still a fond recollection for Dansie who immediately recognized it as a little piece of home.

“I’m imaging our military people that are in places that are far away, that they might not have had a memory from home for a while. It’s just something really nice. We hope they get a candy that they are familiar with and have a little memory from home and know people are thinking of them,” he said.

The timing of Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas worked out well for the candy buy back according to Dansie. The sweet treats should reach the troops between Thanksgiving and Christmas time since the collection happened during the first few business days following Halloween.

“Christmas is about the time you start thinking of home so I think it is perfect timing.

We’ve decided that after the great response from this year, that we are for sure going to keep doing it every year,” Dansie said.

For more information about Dansie Orthodontics, visit www.dansieorthodontics. l com

Dr. Chase Dansie of Dansie Orthodontics and members of his team helped to sort candy donated to the office’s candy buy back program for Operation Gratitude.

for patients & non patients Must present coupon at time of appointment.

Now Offering Extended Hours 801-285-4800

People of all ages and from all around the valley participated in Operation Gratitude, which gave them the opportunity to sell their Halloween candy to Dr. Dansie for $1 per pound -- the candy was sent overseas to the troops.

3723 West 12600 South, Suite 350 • Riverton, Utah 84065 .

S outhV alley Journal.Com

December 2015 | Page 5 .

.

Page 6 | December 2015

SOUTH VALLEY JOURNAL .

Long Time Employee, Brent Bennett, Retires After 27 Years

SouthValleyJournal.com

By Aimee L. Cook

WE’RE EXCITED TO BE PART OF YOUR

neighborhood HAWTHORN SUITES BY WYNDHAM® SALT LAKE CITY-FORT UNION 6990 South Park Centre Dr. Salt Lake City, UT 84121 1-801-567-0111 | hawthorn.com

Brent Bennett, long time Riverton City employee and rodeo enthusiast, retires. Photo courtesy of Riverton City

Riverton City honored long time employee Brent Bennett with a plaque. Photo courtesy of Riverton City

rent Bennett was a dedicated employee to the city of Riverton and its residents for 27 years. Bennett started his job in the public works department in 1989; at that time, he and five other employees were in the department.

The department, as well as the facility they are housed, has grown substantially since then. In addition to his job for the city, Bennett also became a member of the Riverton Rough Riders in 1972, and has since been in charge of the Riverton Rodeo. In fact, it’s become a family affair. He and his children and grandchildren all participate in the rodeo.

“I loved working with the people and helping people out with problems,” Bennett said. “I have always been proud of what I have accomplished with the city. I have been involved with all the road repairs over the years, and we have always done the best we could

with what we have had to work with. It’s been a nice place to live.”

Bennett and his wife Renee have been married since 1973, and have three boys and 9 grandchildren. Bennett plans on keeping with the family on the rodeo circuit, and enjoying his free time and doing some traveling.

“It has been a great privilege to work with Brent Bennett,” Trace Robinson, Riverton City public works director, said. “His longstanding relationships with city staff and residents, along with his insightful expertise, made him a valuable asset to Riverton City and especially to our public works department. Brent has a sincere love for our community. His service as an employee and his dedicated volunteer efforts with the rodeo have contributed to Riverton’s successful growth and warm hometown l spirit.”

B ©2014 Hawthorn Suites Franchising, Inc. All rights reserved. Most hotels are independently owned and operated; a limited number are managed by an affiliate. To learn more about the free-to-join Wyndham Rewards program, please visit www.wyndhamrewards.com.

Chat with Santa by Ham Radio. Children will have an opportunity to talk with Santa Claus directly at the North Pole by two-way amateur-radio communications on Dec. 12 at the Herriman Public Library, 5380 W Herriman Main Street, from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Santa’s helpers will have radios on hand so youngsters can tell Santa what they would like him to deliver as Christmas gifts. The Herriman Amateur Radio Club (HARC) sponsors this event so kids have fun and get an introduction to two-way radio communications. Find HARC at www.n7hrc.org.

.

S outhV alley Journal.Com

December 2015 | Page 7 .

HEALTH INSURANCE LaNelle Peterson

801-889-6982

Individual, Medicare & Dental Plans • We make enrollment easy!

• Apply online: healthinsuranceofutah.com • Apply over the phone or in office.

• Hurry! Open enrollment ends soon!

Tyler Metcalf

801-501-0902

John Metcalf

801-501-0902

We help you enroll through www.healthcare.gov or with an individual insurance company.

Find out what you qualify for by contacting us today!

801- 501-0902

HEALTH & Senior Benefits

9429 South Union Square Sandy, UT 84070

Call today for a NO COST Health Insurance Review

healthandseniorbenefits@gmail.com .

LOCAL

Page 8 | December 2015

SOUTH VALLEY JOURNAL

.

Confidence and Dedication Sum Up The New Miss Greater SLC

By Aimee L. Cook

S

130 Years

OF TRUST Taking Care of

YOUR FAMILY’S NEEDS

EVERY STEP OF THE WAY.

ometimes you have an experience in life that changes the way you live it.

Such was the case for the newly crowned Miss Greater SLC, Natalie Barker. This beauty queen is more than just a pretty face; she is on a mission to remove the word “retarded” from people’s vocabulary.

Natalie was crowned Miss Herriman last year and you might say pageant life runs in her family. In the past, her aunt was Miss Utah, her cousin was Miss Sandy and her mom was Miss Salt Lake County.

“The Miss America program is great, I love what it does for young woman,” Natalie said. “I grew up as a tomboy living with four brothers, I played sports up until 7th grade, and then I started dancing and became a little bit more girly.”

Natalie is now a college freshman on a career path in special education. Her platform “Everyone Has a Place” and ending the “R” word, is near and dear to her heart. Several years ago, Natalie had that aha moment while volunteering for the Special Olympics. That population left an impression on her and she is dedicated to helping them gain the re-

spect they deserve. She was a peer tutor in high school for students who had an intellectual or developmental disability, and now as Miss Greater SLC, she can reach an even larger audience.

“I quickly realized that when people use the word ‘retard’ it really offends people with disabilities,’ Natalie said. “I will use my platform to spread the word and unite people with and without disabilities.”

Natalie is back working at her former high school [Herriman High] as an assistant teacher for some of the kids she peer-tutored in high school. Natalie utilizes her crown and platform by going around to schools and talking with students about the importance of not using the “R” word and showing respect for others.

“I get an opportunity to be a voice for the people that I care about, and I also get to be a representative of Salt Lake City and for Utah through the Miss America program,” Natalie said. “ I also get the opportunity to give back to my community that has given so much to me.”

From here, Natalie will go to prepare for the Miss Utah pageant. She believes that girls can learn so much from

Natalie Barker is crowned Miss Greater SLC, a thrilling experience for a young girl with a heartfelt cause. Photo courtesy of Natalie Barker

being involved in pageants.

“The Miss America program is about showing confidence. You get to learn what is going on in the world and develop your own opinions,” Natalie said. “It also gives you an opportunity to serve, and that’s where I’ve grown and learned the most about myself. You are judged on you being confident in who l you are.”

Scrapbook Company Holds Event for Woman’s Health

By Aimee L. Cook

Full Circle.

Your loved one will never leave our care and you will receive the highest levels of service.

Larkin Mortuary 260 East South Temple Salt Lake City, UT 84111 (801) 363-5781

Larkin Sunset Lawn 2350 East 1300 South Salt Lake City, UT 84108 (801) 582-1582

Larkin Sunset Gardens 1950 East Dimple Dell Road (10600 S.) • Sandy, UT 84092 (801) 571-2771

Larkin Mortuary Riverton 3688 West 12600 South Riverton, UT 84065 (801) 254-4850

LarkinMortuary.com

Mary Nickles, KUTV 2 News Anchor and breast cancer survivor, told her story of survival at the Stampin’ Up! Event. Photo courtesy of Stampin’ Up!

L

adies love to scrapbook. Hours can spent shopping for the goods, and then several more hours are dedicated to putting the works of art together to highlight significant life events. A di.

agnosis of breast cancer is one of those life-changing moments. The folks from the international scrapbook supply company, Stampin’ Up! and the Riverton Hospital, recently partnered for an event called “Stamp Out Breast Cancer” to bring awareness to the disease and to encourage woman to get their mammograms.

“A mammogram performed at the hospital should be every woman’s goal for early detection,” John L. Clayton, MD said in a press release. “Annual screenings after the age of 40 saves women’s lives.”

Sadly, breast cancer knows no age.

Analey Miltenberger was just 28-yearsold when she was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer after detecting a lump in her breast, and she was 18 weeks pregnant with her first child.

“I remember thinking, ‘I am too young for this’,” Miltenberger said in a press release.

Mary Nickles, news anchor for KUTV 2, discovered she had breast cancer while covering a story for the news channel. She was invited to speak at the event and share her story of survival with the attendees.

“I was thrilled to be invited to the health night at Stampin’ Up!” Nickles

said. “While they asked me to share my story of catching my breast cancer with a TV story mammogram, I really like to urge Utahns to get all recommended screenings. A lot of us spend so much time taking care of our families and everyone around us, that we neglect the necessary checkups for ourselves. If caught early, most illnesses and diseases can be treated or even cured. If left undiagnosed, they can be debilitating, or deadly.”

In the United States, one in eight woman will be develop breast cancer -- a startling statistic. The numbers of survivors is increasing largely in part to early detection and mammograms.

“My cancer was a rare and aggressive tumor, but we caught it early, treated it aggressively, and I was told a year ago, that the treatment worked,” Nickles said. “I talked about the harshness of the treatment while acknowledging that positivity, support, and humor helped me get through it all.”

In addition to an informative evening, Stampin’ Up! was able to donate $36,387 to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation due to money raised through the sales of a monthly craft subscription kit that ran from Sept. 15 through Oct. l 10.

S outhV alley Journal.Com

December 2015 | Page 9 .

By Sheldon B. Stewart

A

this, the city has been heads-down focusing on the infrastructure and framework and the plans are being put into place to establish a structure that will support this development and complement the residents of our city while generating a revenue stream that is sustainable for many years.

During this time, those of us that reside in the western portions of the city will begin to experience and witness on a daily basis the hard work and dedication that have gone into promoting this area and the improvements that will facilitate this great development. The improvements that we will begin to see in this area over the coming year are setting the tone for a pattern that will see this land develop and grow revenue in our city for at least the next 40 years.

As I noted four years ago, as we began this process with improvement to 13400 South, “this plan not only sets the table for an invitation of a development that is complementary to our area with entertainment, shopping and convenience, but also assists with the increased traffic coming from the southwest end of the Salt Lake Valley and the completion

s we move into the New Year, it is a time of goal setting and renewing commitments. With the recent election and being re-elected as a representative of our city, I have only begun to reflect on the many things that started when I began my first term and what the city is doing to ensure the future and stability of our city. One of those commitments I made when first re-elected was to find ways to generate reoccurring revenue for the city that sustains the city without placing the burden upon the residents of Riverton. As Riverton looks towards the future, the focus of the next 4 years is going to be the area of the Western Commercial District between Bangerter Highway and the Mountain View Corridor and the development of this area.

This area has become a heavily desired location in the southwest corner of the Salt Lake Valley. This has only been possible because of the appropriate management and preservation of this area. By the time this article will publish the council will have met with CenterCal regarding their development and should be nearing a review of the plans by Suburban Land and Reserve or SLR. To prepare for

.

of the Mountain View Corridor.�

The table was set with the completion of 13400 and Mountain View Corridor, the invitations sent, and CenterCal is now sitting at the table. It is the effort of a team of individuals with the foresight and knowledge that have strategically been placed in our city that have allowed and supported this project without seeing an increase to the expense on us as the taxpayers.

Members of the city staff, city councils past and present, CenterCal, and SLR have all worked closely to ensure that this project and development are a prestigious project and in my opinion is the best outcome we could have wanted for this area of our city.

I am proud of what we have accomplished as a city and I look forward to the future that is coming to Riverton. l

NEWS

Page 10 | December 2015

SOUTH VALLEY JOURNAL

.

Newly Elected Council Members Speak on Hopes for Riverton’s Future

Sheldon B. Stewart has been re-elected as the District 1 council member. Photo courtesy of ©Riverton City Communications 2015

T

he election results are in for Riverton City’s three council districts. Sheldon B. Stewart was re-elected for District 1. Tricia Tingey was re-elected District 2. Wm. Brent Johnson was re-elected for District 5. The newly elected council members will begin their four year term on January 4, 2016.

All three council members expressed appreciation for the people in Riverton and excitement for a new term to continue to work with residents and the city. Each elected official responded to questions on how it feels to

Tricia Tingey has been re-elected as the District 2 council member. Photo courtesy of ©Riverton City Communications 2015

Wm. Brent Johnson has been re-elected as the District 5 council member. Photo courtesy of ©Riverton City Communications 2015

be re-elected, what they hope to continue and what they hope to do differently in their upcoming term.

Sheldon Stewart was the sole candidate for District 1. He finishes his first four-year term as a council member in January.

“I was excited that people had confidence in me that I ran unopposed but still garnered the votes that I did,” Stewart said.

He is a long-time resident of Riverton and considers himself a Riverton boy who attended Riverton Elementary.

“The one thing that I hope to continue to move forward is that we continue to find ways for residents to continue to participate in council meetings and to continue to develop technology that allows residents to interface with the city. When I started on the council, that technology wasn’t really there and I have really had to push for that to change,” Stewart said.

When asked what he hopes to continue in his second term, Stewart said, “The biggest thing is to continue to have open communication with the residents in my area. I also want to continue to progress the activity in the western area with Mountain View Place, particularly since the first phase is entirely in my district.”

Mountain View Place is Riverton’s future major commercial development with CenterCal Properties, LLC. “I’m just really proud of the city that we live in and the things we’ve been able to accomplish as a city. I care a lot about the city,” Stewart added.

Tricia Tingey will begin her first official term on the council in January. She was appointed to the seat of her late husband, Roy Tingey, in July 2014. Tingey represents District 2.

“For me, the biggest concern that I have is with the western commercial development and Mountain View Place. I’m very excited to

WE WELCOME YOU TO JOIN US Sunday Mornings upstairs at the District Megaplex 20 Theater

(3761 W. Parkway Plaza Dr. in South Jordan)

• Kidz Church Program - 10 a.m.

www.gpcutah.com

• Worship Service - 11:15 a.m.

• Light lunch served afterward for ALL

"Our Goal is to help people take the next step in their walk with CHRIST!"

.

By Briana Kelley

have the developer. His is very well known and comes with a great reputation, but it needs to be well done. There are always places for density but we have to be very cautious with what we put there. I don’t believe we need to pack it in, but develop it carefully and correctly,” Tingey said.

Tingey also hopes that the exceptional parks and recreation programs will continue.

When asked what she hopes to do differently during her upcoming term, Tingey responded, “I’m hoping that, and I think this is already coming, but I would like to move all of us--the city and the politicians--to use and adopt social media and technology, like Facebook, so that our constituents can have up-todate information from us.”

“I would just like to express my undying love for Riverton City. I think it is the best community. We chose this community because of the great reputation and the wonderful people we have. I think that’s what makes us unique is the people that are here,” Tingey added.

Brent Johnson was re-elected to represent District 5. Johnson has been a resident of Riverton for over 20 years. He has raised his children in Riverton and now he wants to give back to the community. During his second term, he hopes to maintain the balance between residential and retail growth.

“I hope to keep that fine balance,” Johnson said. “I also hope to continue increasing a sense of community and community involvement in Riverton.”

When asked what he hopes to do differently during his upcoming term, Johnson said, “I hope to use the experience and the knowledge that I’ve gained in the last four years. I hope that the learning curve is over, and I want to act quicker and stronger on issues, projects, everything.”

“I’m excited that people in my district supported me with such a strong voice; it made me feel confident in what I’ve been doing. A strong majority is in favor for what I’ve done and I’m more confident because they’re confident in me. It makes me more confident moving forward,” Johnson said.

The General Election was held Nov. 3. A Primary Election was not held. Canvas of official votes was Nov. 17 in the Riverton City l Hall Council Chambers.

S outhV alley Journal.Com

NEWS

December 2015 | Page 11

.

Riverton Residents Endeavor to Protect Preservation Area

By Briana Kelley

R

esidents are speaking out against a proposed re-zone of Riverton preservation area. The property, located at 11877 South Reeves Lane near the Jordan River, is currently zoned A-5, or agricultural 5-acre lots. The applicant is requesting a rezone to R-3, or residential third-acre lots. The issue is scheduled to be presented to the planning commission on December 10.

“The land in question has been zoned A-5 for over 20 years. It is also listed as a preservation area on Riverton City’s Master Plan.

The community would like it to remain zoned as it is,” Dave Carter stated. Carter, a resident in the area in question, acted as spokesman for other property owners in the area. “Historically, Riverton City has done a good job as stewards of the Jordan River and the surrounding preservation and wetland areas. We believe they will continue to take that stewardship very seriously.”

Current A-5 zoning allows for the potential of building one house per five acres and has long been established. There have been prior rezone requests that have been denied on the property in question. However building has not been and would not be prohibited by the city, according to Angela Trammell, Riverton City’s public information officer.

Residents are primarily concerned that rezoning the area will lead to loss of preservation area and wetlands as established in Riverton City’s General Plan. Development would affect wildlife and avian species in the area.

“If this is developed, Riverton will no longer have this green space, the protected area, that facilitates the wildlife--the fox, the geese, even eagles come down into here. We’ve had deer.

All along this walking path people enjoy that wildlife. Once this is developed, it’s gone. And it’s gone forever. Riverton loses that valuable green space,” Carter said.

Many residents are also concerned about the proximity of the proposed development to the Jordan River and the floodplain. “Several homes in our neighborhood have experienced extensive structural damage due to the unstable soil conditions in this area and our proximity to the Jordan River. In some instances the repairs have cost homeowners tens of thousands of dollars. Approximately 22 years ago Riverton City designated how far away our subdivision should sit in relation to the Jordan River.

A proposed re-zone of Riverton preservation area could potentially impact parts of the Jordan River Parkway.

Building homes closer to this designation will inevitably expose prospective homeowners to the same extensive home damage and high cost of repair,” Carter and other homeowners said.

The city takes these concerns into account when reviewing applications. “The technical aspects of floodplain and groundwater issues are designated by FEMA and Salt Lake County Flood Control. As any proposed building or land development is submitted for approval by an applicant to the Planning Commission and City Council, these very important issues, along with their required accommodations, are taken into consideration,” Trammell said.

The applicant, Ivory Homes, was unable to answer questions in time for publication.

Ivory Homes held a neighborhood meeting on November 18 to discuss their proposal and answer questions concerning the project. Their proposal will be reviewed December 10. Following the review of the planning commission, Riverton’s City Council will review it at a date to be determined.

Trent Staggs is the council member over the area in discussion and sits on the governing board of the Jordan River Commission. He is aware of the effects of possible development.

“I am very concerned about development in

this area because of the long-standing stance that the city has had in their general plan for it as preservation area. People make decisions on where to buy their home based on zoning.

Given that it is a preservation area and there has proven to be a lot of hazards and issues, that is a concern,” Staggs said.

Trammell encouraged residents to continue to voice their opinion on this issue. “Resident feedback is also always welcome during open public hearings, and independently by elected officials as they work to make the best decisions possible for the city and its resil dents,” Trammell said.

Starting at $299,900 A 55+ Gated Senior community at 10400 S. 3200 W. South Jordan • MAIN FLOOR LIVING • CLUBHOUSE & POOL • CONVENIENT LOCATION

Lisa Willden | Realtor | Cell: (801) 913-3553 Inquire about our grand opening incentive!! .

NEWS

Page 12 | December 2015

SOUTH VALLEY JOURNAL

.

Former Riverton UPD Officer Arrested

By Briana Kelley

R

egan Anson, a 25-year-old Unified Police officer who worked in Riverton, has been charged with sexually abusing a 17-year-old girl. Anson was charged in 3rd District Court with five counts of forcible sexual abuse on Nov. 4, a second-degree felony. Anson was a probationary officer at the time of the alleged offence.

“We hold our officers to a high standard. The public expects us to police our own officers and we take that duty very seriously. We are shocked and dismayed by this incident and will continue to fully cooperate with this investigation,” the Unified Police Department press release stated.

Investigators discovered evidence of a sexual relationship during an unrelated investigation, according to the UPD press release. UPD then contacted the Salt Lake City Police Department and requested that they handle the investigation. Anson was booked into the Davis County Jail as a result of Salt Lake City Police Department’s investigation within 48 hours of discovery of the evidence, according to UPD. Investigators believe that Anson met the girl while he was on duty but had sexual contact with her on five

Regan Anson, a former Unified Police officer, has been charged with five counts of forcible sexual abuse with a 17-year-old girl. Anson worked in Riverton as a probationary officer.

Photo courtesy of Davis County Jail

separate occasions while he was off duty. The teen lived in Salt Lake City with family. Prosecutors say he engaged in illegal sexual conduct with the teen between Sept. 26 and Oct. 21.

Anson was fired from the department after his arrest.

Anson had been a probationary

member of the Unified Police Department for seven months. He previously worked with West Valley Police Department for a year and a half. It is unknown why he changed jobs. Anson was booked into the Davis County Jail on Oct. 22. As of Nov. 10, he was being held on $75,000 bail. l

PERSONAL

CARE

Compassion and Caring Matter Most.

When

FOR YOU

AND YOUR

PETS! • Make sure your best friend has only the best treatment — send your pet to us.

• Friendly, compassionate staff.

• Same day appointments.

• Emergency care.

VISIT US ONLINE AT

oquirrhhillsvet.com

.

S outhV alley Journal.Com

EDUCATION

December 2015 | Page 13

.

Riverton Elementary Students Ride in Style to Lunch

B

By Rachel Hall

rooklynn, James, Xander, Emma, Josh, school’s PTA president, said.

Brooklynn Steiner, the top earner for kinWill and Elle had the opportunity for the Collard and Tingey also praised the ef- dergarten, was more than excited to be able to very first time to ride in a limo, which pulled forts of all of the volunteers who helped make ride in a limo and have lunch with her prinup to Riverton Elementary School ready to the event successful. cipal for the day. It was a welcomed reward. take the students to lunch at Salsa Leedos with “My legs were so tired,” she said about “In the building it was pretty calm, but their principal, Cynthia Tingey, as running 10 laps – equivalent to one a reward for being top earners in mile. the school’s annual fun run.

The efforts of all students at “The students earned a lot the fun run were applauded and of money – thousands of dollars appreciated by the PTA and ad– with the fun run that we held in ministration at Riverton ElemenSeptember,” Tingey said. tary. The entire school reached a As a result of the students’ goal that resulted in them earning hard work and effort, the school a mascot. The name is currently will be able to help fund field trips, top secret, but students are excited literacy programs, assemblies, the to hear more details when they are Speak Up Be Safe program, field revealed. day at the end of the year, teacher “We have the best parent volappreciation week and other projunteers. That’s the only reason this ects as needed. fundraiser was able to work, be“All the money goes back cause parents supported it. It takes into the school,” Tingey said. a lot of volunteers, and it takes Students solicited funds from them supporting it financially,” family and friends based on the Collard said. number of laps they completed Local businesses also stepped during the race, or as a flat rate Students had the opportunity to ride in a limo for the very first time as a reward for up to support the school’s fundearning the most money in their grades at Riverton Elementary School’s annual fun run. for participation in the 20 minutes raiser. The amount of money from scheduled for each grade level to sponsorships covered the cost of once they got out there and they were pinning the event and rewards, which is why all of the run as much as they could.

“The kids – they worked hard. They had on their bib numbers, they were so excited. money collected by students will go directly a goal in mind, and they worked hard. They The PTA did an amazing job. They had music back to school programs for the K – 6th camdidn’t give up. It was neat to see them know out there, so there was just a really fun atmo- pus with over 700 students. Students raised l they can do hard things,” Missy Collard, the sphere out there,” Tingey said. over $25,000.

.

BLUFFDALE ARTS

ANNOUNCES AUDITIONS For the Broadway Musical

√

FRIDAY, Dec. 3, • 6-9 p.m.

SATURDAY, Dec. 4 • 9-12 a.m.

At the home of the director: Laura Garner - 1967 W. 13930 So. Please come prepared to sing 16 measures Bring the entire family — There is a place for everyone An accompanist will be provided NO CD’s please Performance dates - March 17-19, 2016

Questions? Call: 801-680-1192 This project supported with funds from Salt Lake County's Zoo, Arts & Parks (ZAP), Bluffdale City and Rocky Mountain Power

EDUCATION

Page 14 | December 2015

SOUTH VALLEY JOURNAL

.

Herriman High School Has a CURE for Bullying

H

who they are, and the idea that all the students have a ‘dis-ease’ at the school and they can be the CURE. “High school is a state of dis-ease for everyone. It’s awkward, you are trying to figure out who you are, etc.,” Jensen said.

Garrett Cook, a recent graduate of Herriman and a student body officer of the school, was a special guest speaker. Garrett is a young man with Down’s Syndrome and he gave a heartfelt presentation about empowerment. He spoke about how important it is to include everyone and make them feel loved.

By Aimee L. Cook

erriman High School, under the direction of teacher and coach, Lisa Jensen, took on the issue of bullying last year in a fun but productive way. This year, they took it even a step further.

The theme last year was “Everybody has a story.”

This year, they wanted to create an action to go along with the fact that everyone has a story. The approach is not to focus on just not being Advisor for the CURE, Lisa Jensen, greets the students and encourages a bully, but instead is to focus them to get in the spirit to be the CURE. Photo courtesy of Herriman High on how to be the CURE and School to be good people.

CURE stands for Lunch time activities were provided C=Courage, U=Unity, throughout the week leading up to the CURE R=Revolution and E=Empowerment.

“We are trying to show people that it is assembly and were themed after what CURE ok to stand up for who you are. You are the stands for. For Courage, they played minute to only version of you,” Jensen said. “We are still win it games, for Unity they took selfies with human, we are still flawed but that everyone in fun props, for Revolution they sang karaoke this school is part of this movement, to provide and for Empowerment they created a large ball pit for students to sit in with a stranger and a culture at our school of good people.”

There are 30 ambassadors on the CURE chat.

During the assembly, the ambassadors got program but Jensen hopes that all students will the party started, so to speak, with a flash mob see themselves as an ambassador. The ambassadors are expected to lead by example and to the music “Thriller.” Jensen rode out on an air board and spoke to the students about being help put an end to bullying.

Junior April Kerr, one of the CURE ambassadors, closed the assembly with a song she wrote about a personal experience. She felt that the students really got a lot out of the assembly and it helped to bring the student body closer after a fellow student passed away two days later in a car accident.

“I actually wrote the song as an assignment for one of my classes,” Kerr said. “I wanted to write about bullying, because it is something I experienced in middle school. It was very personal to me, it was my story, which went along l perfectly with our theme.”

Teacher of the Year, Todd Monson, Makes Learning Fun

By Aimee L. Cook

M

iddle school science teacher, Todd Monson, knows his way around a classroom.

He has been teaching and entertaining students for 25 years and was recently awarded Teacher of the Year by the Jordan School District.

“As a young boy, I had a strong interest in science starting with curiosity of rocks, minerals, dinosaurs and fossils,” Monson said.

“Then I asked for my first chemistry set when I was 7. In high school I enjoyed advanced science classes, later working into a BS degree in Forestry and Wildlife Management at Utah State University. While working with the Forest Service I worked in educational outreach programs regarding forest conservation and fire prevention. This built my interest in working in the education profession.”

.

Students enjoy being in a class taught by Monson.

He believes in making learning a fun and pleasant experience, and his students say he does that well.

“Mr. Monson makes class Todd Monson, science teacher so much fun,” at Oquirrh Hills Middle School, Harley Bright, wins Teacher of the Year. Photo courtesy of Todd Monson eighth grader at Oquirrh Hills middle school, said. “He gets really involved with the class and in the experiments, and it has made me like science so much more.”

Monson has a knack for creating opportunities that allow his students to learn in a more hands-on way. He even found a way to make learning science vocabulary fun by turning the words into jokes.

“We were learning matter vocabulary during one of our lessons and Mr. Monson looked at the class and said ‘What’s the MATTER with you’, it was funny,” Hannah Breinholt, 8th grader at Oquirrh Hills Middle school, said.

Monson has always enjoyed working with young people in one way or another. He takes pleasure in watching students learn something new by a demonstration or discovering how something works in science that they didn’t understand before.

“I enjoy the discovery that the students make with science and understanding that science is indeed all around you. Science is meant to be fun,” Monson said. “In order to make science fun and interesting for students, they must be actively engaged in the process of science. To develop a sense of confidence and understanding of the aspects of science the students need to actually do the activities and discover how things work. The most rewarding part of my job is when students enjoy my class and say that they plan to pursue an area of science for their future. When I have students return years later sharing how they have gone into some field of science having been inspired by me, my class and the activities brings me l sense of accomplishment.”

EDUCATION

S outhV alley Journal.Com

December 2015 | Page 15

.

By Salt Lake County Mayor Ben McAdams

How Salt Lake County expects to drastically reduce homelessness

W

hen I’m asked about homelessness in the county, the question can be either, “Isn’t the situation better than it’s ever been?” or “Isn’t it worse than it’s ever been?” Both questions reflect truth. Over the past 10 years, Utah has nearly solved the problem of chronic homelessness—defined as people who have experienced homelessness longer than one year and also have a disabling condition. The

number of chronically homeless in Utah has dropped 91 percent, to fewer than 200 people.

But the faces of homelessness are varied and are always changing. From the woman and her children who become homeless due to domestic violence, to the teenagers who “age out” of foster care, to the veterans who struggle with complex health needs, the causes differ. When you figure that out, it leads to a different conversation about what should be done about it.

A year ago, that conversation began. It was started among two groups led by Salt Lake City and Salt Lake County. The city’s group was chaired by former Salt Lake City Mayor Palmer DePaulis and community leader and philanthropist Gail Miller. They focused on the grow-

ing demand facing the Road Home shelter facility near Pioneer Park. I co-chaired a county effort which brought all the many excellent providers of homeless services together as one problem-solving group.

In October, that group, which includes the YWCA, the Crossroads Urban Center, the Housing Authority, Volunteers of America, the 4th Street Health Clinic, Catholic Community Services, the LDS church, the United Way, and the Pioneer Park Coalition (31 partners in all), unanimously agreed on 14 shared outcomes to guide our work moving forward. It begins with our commitment to ensure that everyone in our community has a safe place to live.

Today we recognize that even though we spend collectively $52 million a year on homelessness, we aren’t achieving these 14 outcomes. Everyone is trying hard. Everyone is doing good work. But until we agreed to come together and all pull in the same direction as a team, we can’t harness all that good work for the best results. We all want a system that makes sure people are safe, receive efficient service delivery and are able to focus on self-sufficiency so that they can live stable and rewarding lives.

The week of Thanksgiving, both groups came together to make an important announce-

Honoring a History Teacher With a National Award

ment. Any facilities that serve the homeless populations going forward must be built and located where services needed can also be delivered. We start with the outcomes we want to achieve, select indicators that honestly measure how we’re doing and then put the money and the programs in place to accomplish those outcomes, such as diverting individuals and families from emergency shelters whenever possible and working to prevent homelessness from happening.

The consequences of failing to measure the impact of our programs and continually improve the system’s effectiveness go well beyond wasting scarce tax dollars. Every time a homeless person participates in a program that doesn’t work—but could have participated in one that does—that represents a human cost.

We’ve pledged to move forward in unison to minimize homelessness in our community.

That’s what Utah is known for—a place where we come together to build a safe, healthy and l prosperous community for all.

PRESENTS ...

Night in Bethlehem

By Aimee L. Cook

H

erriman High School history teacher, Darlene James was recently awarded the Outstanding American History Teacher Award by the Salt Lake Chapter of Daughters of the American Revolution [DAR]. The DAR is a non-profit organization, made up of only women that have a proven patriot ancestor that fought in the Revolutionary War. Susan Holt, chapter regent for the Salt Lake Valley Chapter of the DAR nominated James after reading a previous article about her in the South Jordan Journal where she had received the James Madsen Fellowship award.

“This is a very prestigious award in our organization,” Holt said. “It is not taken lightly, and it is something that the person who wins on the national level, they attend our Continental Congress which happens in Washington D.C. every summer.”

James had to meet certain requirements to complete Darlene James, history teacher at Herriman the nomination, such as submit her resume and recom- High School was selected to receive the Outmendation letter, to complete the process which has tak- standing American History Teacher Award by the Salt Lake Chapter of Daughters of the en several months.

American Revolution (DAR).

“I was contacted by the chapter to inform me that they selected me,” James said. “I have since prepared an extensive application that has been submitted, per the local chapter’s request, to be submitted at the state level, to proceed onto district and national, if said levels also select me as their Outstanding American History Teacher recipient. This award was nothing that I applied for, but I am a happy recipient.”

The award James received highlights her as a teacher and her love of American history and how she shares that enthusiasm with her students.

“We are just very honored to do this for her,” Holt said. “She does not like a quiet classroom. l She encourages students to ask questions.”

Live Nativity Saturday, December 12, 2015 • 5-8 pm 1007 W. South Jordan Parkway (10600 S.) South Jordan, Utah

• Waffle Love Truck • Hot Chocolate • Memory Christmas Tree • Animals from K-Bar Ranch • Music • Complimentary Memorial Dove Ornament

.

EDUCATION

Page 16 | December 2015

SOUTH VALLEY JOURNAL

.

Teachers Attend Concealed Weapons Class During UEA U

By Aimee L. Cook

tah laws allow for teachers to carry concealed weapons. Over the recent UEA break, the Utah Shooting Sports Council offered a free concealed weapons class geared towards teachers and those working in schools.

There are two schools of thought amongst teachers and administrators whether or not teachers carrying concealed weapons is a good idea.

“I look every day into the eyes of 25 precious children and only hope that I will never be faced with a disturbed individual who is willing and able to shoot at children,” Terri Samowitz, fourth grade teacher at Providence Hall said. “Our school is very proactive with doing lockdown drills and this will always be my first line of defense. I will lock my door, drop my window shield and hide my students quietly in the corners. The reason I have decided that it could be a good idea to have a weapon is for the possibility that the locked door will not stop them if they are determined to get in and harm my students. I want to know that I have a second line of defense in that situation.”

Clark Aposhian has been an instructor for over 10 years. Aposhian believes that teachers should carry a concealed weapon if they choose to. He thinks it is a bad idea to disarm teachers. The public expects teachers to teach children, but they also expect them to keep the students safe on some level.

“We expect teachers to protect our kids, even though its never officially been said,” Aposhian said. “I look back on the Sandy Hooks incident and can imagine hearing those gun shots. If there had been a window the teacher would have climbed out of to save herself, we would have thought that would have been the most terrible thing they could do. Even though it’s not their job to protect the

Susan Schilling 801-280-0595 We are asked frequently, “What is a Chamber?” Every Chamber is different. The Southwest Valley Chamber has three areas of focus; networking, education and community involvement. We provide opportunities for businesses to improve their sales, business education and helping with the community. We will be honoring businesses, fire and police heroes in the spring. This will be at our Knight of Heroes event. If you see a hero that you would like to nominate, please let us know.

New Members

ValPak Saint Andrew Catholic School

Renewing Members Roxberry

Bee Hive Homes Desert Rose Dental

Upcoming events The Southwest Valley Chamber is sponsoring

Santa’s Workshop

kids, it’s not written in any employee handbook, but we do expect them to do it.”

In Utah, it is not against the law to carry a firearm in any place of work. You can be let go for doing so in some jobs but you cannot be charged with a crime. As a schoolteacher in Utah, the districts cannot say, “No guns allowed.” They have to go by what the state law says.

Laney Long is a guidance counselor at Granger High School. She has an opposing view of teachers carrying concealed weapons.

“I do not believe teachers should carry concealed weapons. If a student saw it and grabbed it off the teacher when the student was angry with the teacher, or another student, who knows what kind of chaos would occur,” Long said. “I also believe just an afternoon class does not make one an expert on weapons. I had a co-worker years back, who got his concealed weapons permit. This individual had never shot a gun before and purchased a gun from a guy off the Internet. I would not trust him to shoot with accuracy if there ever was a violent intruder in my school. I believe he could easily add to the victims. I currently work in a school where there are on average two policemen in the building most of the time. They carry, and I say let them do what they are trained to do.”

Katie O’Brien is a high school freshman at Juan Diego Catholic High School. She does not want her teachers carrying guns and thinks it would be a mistake because they could end up in the wrong hands.

“I would not feel any safer if my teachers had a gun because there are some kids who might overpower a teacher and use the weapon to hurt people,” Katie said. “Lockdown drills make me feel like my school is a safe environl ment.”

at Riverton City “Holly Days”!

November 30, December 4, 5, 7, 11, 12 from 6-9 p.m.

Riverton City Park 1452 W. 12600 South

All proceeds from gifts sold in Santa’s Workshop will go to Holiday Heroes, a nonprofit venture by Riverton City and Unified Police to give Christmas to local families in need.

Sustaining Partners

Clark Aposhian instructs a classroom of Utah educators during the UEA break on concealed weapons. Photo courtesy of Utah Shooting Sports Council.

.

spotlight on: Academy of Ballet Arts

I

t’s not your average dance school. The Academy of Ballet Arts is a dance studio that believes dance is an art, not a competition.

Because of that belief, the curriculum taught focuses on teaching technique and performance skills, while fostering a love of dance.

Their goal is to make every student feel successful.

Sheila Cramer, director and head instructor at the Academy, began her training in Rapid City, S.D. She then danced with University of Utah’s Ballet Department and at Point Park College in Pittsburgh, PA, where she was a member of the American Dance Ensemble.

Sheila began teaching at the Academy of Ballet Arts in 1986, under the direction of Karen Chatterton. “I took over in 1993 in Sandy,” says Sheila. “We moved to South Jordan in 2009, and just opened a second location in West Jordan this year.”

The productions the Academy puts on are theater-based, which is what you would experience dancing in a professional company. This gives the students experience, and produces dancers that are fit for a professional environment. Many students have gone on to receive scholarships and to have professional careers with elite institutions such as Ballet West, New York City Ballet, and Julliard, to name a few.

In addition to the structured ballet curriculum, the Academy offers an extensive con-

temporary program. There is something for everyone from age 3 to 93. Classes include ballet

technique, pointe, pre-ballet, jazz, hip-hop, modern, lyrical, character dance, tap, creative dance, pas de deux (partnering) and more.

Sheila is continuing in producing full length ballets at the Academy of Ballet Arts including the 2012 production of “Coppelia” and an annual production of the Nutcracker in South Jordan. “The Nutcracker” will be performed at South Hills Middle School for four days near Christmas—the 18th, 19th, 21st, and 22nd—at 7 p.m. “We don’t do recitals; we do productions,” explains Sheila. “This past October we just finished ‘Just Another Day,’ a Halloween contemporary show that has a story behind it. The dancer’s dance throughout the production telling a story. We are doing [the annual production of] ‘The Nutcracker’ in December, and in the spring we will present a contemporary production and a full length ballet production.”

You can drop in either location—10512 South Redwood Road in South Jordan, or 1646 West Sunrise Place in West Jordan—or visit their website www.aba-studios.com to learn more about the classes offered at the Academy of Ballet Arts. You can also reach them at 801907-5731 to discuss enrollment or preorder your tickets for the holiday showing of “The l Nutcracker.”

Presents a Ballet Production of

The

Nutcracker Friday, December 18 Saturday, December 19 Monday, December 21 & Tuesday December 22 at 7 pm December 19 Matinee Saturday at 2 pm

TICKETS

$8 Adults $4 Seniors $4 Students and Kids South Hills Middle School 13508 South 4000 West • Riverton aba-studios.com • 801-907-5731 Bring in this ad to receive a FREE ticket with the purchase of 1 ticket at regular price OF EQUAL OR LESSER VALUE .

SPORTS

Page 18 | December 2015

SOUTH VALLEY JOURNAL

.

Youth Football Championships C apturing any championship can be a thrilling experience. Herriman and Riverton youth football teams had the opportunity to do just that.

“Football teaches these kids life lessons.

It gets them to participate as a team, have discipline and work hard. I see the positive things it has done for my kids,” Herriman Ute Conference President Dave Blonquist said.

Riverton youth football captured six championships. Head coach Brett Candalot’s Peewee team (10-year-olds) defeated Bingham 7-6 for their title. Jackson Peck helped guide his Mity Mite team (11-year-olds) to a 27-0 victory over Corner Canyon. The Midget team (12-year-olds) coached by Chuck Elliot beat Herriman 14-6. All three Junior level teams (14- and 15-year-olds) were crowned champions; Mike Kartchner led his team to a 34-6 victory over Herriman. Randy Gilbert coached his team to a 58-21 win over West Jordan and the team coached by Kris Denos defeated Bingham 28-0.

Herriman was just as fortunate to celebrate their team’s championships. The Gremlins coached by Dan Thompson beat Olympus 33-7. Midget head coach Allen Johnson guided his team to a 26-6 victory over Bingham.

Coach Ramsay helped his Mity Mites team

By Greg James

defeat Bingham 7-6 for a championship and Danny Wheeler guided his Peewee team to a 9-1 overall record and division championship.

Herriman and Riverton youth football programs participate in the Ute Conference Football Program governed by the national organization, USA Football.

“I am in my fifth year as league president.

We have tried to build a good relationship with the high school coaches in our program.

Coach Pearce (Herriman head coach) called me first thing when he took over and talked about our partnership. Those coaches get super busy, but he gave us direction on how to teach these kids,” Blonquist said.

Herriman and Riverton boast two of the largest programs in Ute Conference Football.

Herriman had nearly 615 participants and 27 teams; Riverton had 26 teams.

“It is always a constant battle to keep everyone in tune. We need to remember that these are kids. They are not going to USC next year, so we do not need to be so stressed out.

Our volunteers and community support is outstanding. Even with fundraising, we could not ask for better support,” Blonquist said.

Both programs are run by volunteers.

They help with uniforms, equipment, snack shacks, scheduling and safety. l

Riverton’s Junior Division football team huddles around their coach for last minute instructions before they defeated Herriman 27-0 Oct. 24. Photo credit Greg James

Summit Academy Hosts Volleyball Tournament

C

By Greg James

harter schools from across the Wasatch Front converged on Summit Academy High School in Bluffdale for the charter school state coed volleyball championship.

The Utah Charter and Small School Athletic League hosted its annual state volleyball tournament Oct. 26-28. Teams representing 16 schools participated in the tournament. Lincoln Academy from Pleasant Grove showed why it had not lost a game all season and emerged as the champion.

The purpose of the UCSSAL is to administer and supervise interscholastic athletics among its member schools. Students enrolled in sixth through ninth grades can participate in coed volleyball, cross country running, boys and girls basketball and soccer throughout the school year.

Lincoln, Syracuse Arts Academy, Channing Hall (Draper) and Early Light Academy (South Jordan) entered the tournament as the top seeds. They had only lost one game between them before the three-day tournament began.

The 30 represented charter schools were divided into four competing divisions. Teams

At Triton Terrace we focus on making your living comfortable with modern apartment suites, amazing amenities, convenient lease terms and FREE business class internet and FREE cable TV. Furry friends are important family members so of course we allow them and have even built a park for them: “Scentral Park”. Add our perfect location in Draper, close to world class skiing, biking, hiking, amazing views and we are unbeatable.

Come and see why Triton Terrace is your next place.

from south valley schools competed in the central division. Summit Academy Bluffdale and Draper, Providence Hall, Channing Hall, North Star Academy (Bluffdale) and American Preparatory (Draper) are member schools.

Channing Hall went undefeated during the regular season. The won 14 regular season matches before the state playoffs. They defeated Arches (Orem) and Ascent Farm (Farmington) to advance to the tournament semifinals.

They lost to Syracuse for the opportunity to play in the finals. They finished fourth overall.

North Star Academy advanced with a first round victory over Freedom. American Preparatory lost to Maeser in the first round of the tournament.

Providence Hall finished the regular season with a 6-8 record, Summit Academy Draper 5-9 and Summit Bluffdale was 1-13. They all failed to qualify for the tournament.

The UCSSAL follows Utah High School rules. The athletic league promotes sportsmanship and safe competition. Their mission statement reaffirms the importance athletics are in the development of skills needed to become contributing members of society. l

Elevate Your Life! Call: 801.790.7000 www.tritonterrace.com The Summit Academy Falcons in Draper finished their co-ed volleyball season with a 5-9 overall record. Photo courtesy of Summit Academy.

.

S outhV alley Journal.Com

SPORTS

December 2015 | Page 19

.

Junior High Patriots Top Competition

By Greg James

The cross country team at Providence Hall Junior High has grown to over 65 runners in its fifth season. Photo courtesy of Jessie Ballard

T

he Providence Hall Junior High School cross country teams ran to the top of the Utah Charter and Small School Athletic League; try saying that 20 times fast.

Fast is what the junior Patriots were. Ali Jones paced the girls field winning the individual state championship by eight seconds. Eliza Howe placed eighth overall, and the girls

brought home the team state championship.

“This season was so amazing. I thought that most of our runners had moved up, so I was a little worried about it, but the season just

.

blew me away. Throughout the season, I was so impressed by how hard these kids would work.

We were running four days a week doing hills, sprints and distance. They were so dedicated,” head cross country coach Jessie Ballard said.

The boys team was not far behind its girls counterpart. They finished third overall. Jonathan Ruiz placed 11th individually and T.J. Warnick 12th.

“Ali (Jones) took first in every meet all season long. It was fun to watch her. She has been on the team since sixth grade. She works so hard every practice and really wanted to take state this year. Jonathan (Ruiz) is in eighth grade and it was his first year to run cross country. He took second at regionals,” Ballard said.

Cross country running is a sport in which teams and individuals run a race over natural terrain. Typically, the course is 2-3 miles long and can include hills, dirt roads and grass.

Teams are awarded points by where each of their runners finish.

“When the school opened five years ago, we had 15 kids on the team. Each year, the team gets bigger and bigger. This season we had 65 runners. A lot of these kids could not run a mile when we started. By the end of the season, every kid was running the full two miles and many of them improved their times by four or five minutes,” Ballard said.

The Patriots that qualified for the state meet were: Ali Jones, Abby Finlayson, Eliza Howe, Audrey Robertson, Grace Drury, Teigyn Holt, Natalie Finlayson, Jonathan Ruiz, T.J. Warnick, Brock Lindsey, McKay Loftus, Taeson Holt, Chase Francis and Sam Beck.

The UCSSAL is designed to administer and supervise interscholastic athletics among its member schools. Providence Hall is included in the central division with Channing Hall, North Star, APA-Draper and Summit Academy. l

Page 20 | December 2015

SOUTH VALLEY JOURNAL .

Riverton Soldier Continues Racing

By Greg James

U

nited States Army Cadet Kenny Dailey, a 2012 Riverton High School graduate, has carved himself as an integral part of the Army West Point Cycling Team.

As captain of the cycling team, Dailey races in several styles of competition with his team. He races as part of the mountain bike team, track racing team (held in a velodrome or small oval arena) and cyclocross team (mountain biking with rider dismounts and bike carry portions of the race).

On Sept 16-17, he finished third in the individual time trials and his team placed second in the division two points race in Colorado Springs, Colo (track racing).

Dailey is a senior at the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, N.Y. He balances competitive riding with a heavy academic load. He will graduate in the spring with a bachelor’s degree and begin his commitment to serve his country.

“For me it is incredible to see him competing at this level. Riding two wheels has always been second nature to him his whole life. It is so cool when they announce his name at a race and they say he is from Riverton, Utah. Hearing that is cool,” Dailey’s father Ken Dailey II said.

Dailey began riding motocross at age five.

In his spare time, and to keep him active, his parents got him involved in hockey. He began playing at 8-years-old, and started four years for the Riverton High School team.

At 15-years-old, he began working for Infinite Cycle Bike Shop in Riverton and the

At the velodrome racing track in Colorado Springs, Riverton graduate Ken Dailey finished third overall in individual points (middle bike on the track). Photo courtesy of Ken Dailey

owners got him interested in BMX racing and road racing.

Dailey raced motocross all over the western United States. He debated taking a year off from college to race professionally.

“I am glad he stuck with school. In the long run, I think he knows that college will open more doors. He has been a good student since second grade. My wife (Carolyn) was his second grade teacher and she told him he

needed to keep his assignments turned in if he wanted to race. He is the most self motivated kid I know. I never had to tell him to keep his grades up,” Dailey’s father said.

Dailey will receive his post-graduation assignment with the military before the end of the year. He plans to continue to race bicycles and motocross. After he completes his assignment, he hopes to race motorcycles professionally at some point.

Dave Sandavol’s 10 Day Celebrity Transformation • Reset Your Metabolism • Lose 5-20 lbs in 10 Days • Detox Your Body 60 day Money Back Gauranteed!

Cindy’s Actual Before & After...

BEFORE

FIRST 10 DAYS

REAL PEOPLE – REAL RESULTS – REAL FAST

SECOND 10 DAYS

RESULTS NOT TYPICAL

INDEPENDENT DISTRIBUTOR

Receive a $50 gift card by using the gift card code: slcpurium at www.mypurium.com/slcpurium

For more Information or to Register for an Informational Workshop, Call 877-878-8197 .

S outhV alley Journal.Com

December 2015 | Page 21 .

.

Page 22 | December 2015

SOUTH VALLEY JOURNAL .

Are Bargain Hunters too Dang Cheap?

By Joani Taylor

W

hile chatting the other day with a friend of mine who owns a popular downtown Salt Lake restaurant, we got into a conversation about deals and coupons they offered through various advertising mediums. This restaurateur friend of mine has promoted many times through these marketing avenues, and I was picking his brain for insight on what works and what doesn’t.

I mentioned that I had been reading on Yelp.com (a popular customer review website) a plethora of negative comments about various restaurants (including his) and how MANY of the negative reviewers start their review with “I had a coupon or deal voucher for this company and decided to give it a try.” Then the reviewer would launch into a rant of negativity bashing the food or service provider.

As my friend and I further discussed this, he stated that sometimes bargain hunters are terrible customers and that “it is not uncommon for them to complain, under tip and even attempt to mis-use their certificates or coupons.”

I’m finding this trend sad and disturbing!

Most of these businesses are local to our economy. They employ our families, friends and neighbors. They support not only their families but the employees that count on it, too. When they discount their product, it’s in the hopes of getting new and loyal customers. Then, in addition to having to pay the advertiser, they watch as we, the consumers, berate them publicly for future customers to see. SAY WHAT?!

I’m sad to say that many merchants I’ve spoken with view deal users as classless and cheap. I recently had the marketing director of a popular Utah location tell me they did not want coupon and deal users at their place of business, leaving their, and I quote, “McDonalds bags and dirty diapers all over their lawn.”

OUCH! That hurt! After all, I rarely eat fast food and my kids are adults. Of course, one has nothing to do with the other. It was the stigma she attached to the bargain hunter that bothered me.

When I use a deal voucher or coupon, I take a much different approach. The first thing I do is to thank the manager or owner (if possible) for providing me with this great chance to try their services or product. Or, I will imme-

diately let the waiter, cashier or other employee know that I have the deal voucher and then ask them to thank their boss on my behalf. I’m happy, kind and courteous and do my best to make the service employee have a better day.

This small gesture of kindness will set the tone for your entire dining or shopping experience.

It will make the merchant proud and glad they offered YOU this discount.

This holiday season, I hope you’ll join me in saying thanks to the merchants from whom you have received special savings.

Leave comments on their Facebook pages, tip extra, make a purchase without a coupon even if there is one, or simply smile and show gratitude to our small local Utah businesses for giving us a discount on their products and services that we

might not have discovered otherwise. If you do go back to the business, let them know you found them through a coupon or deal, l and you are so glad you did.

Authentic Brazilian Cuisine

$8 Buzz Cuts EXPIRES 12/31/15

18 years of experience Walk-ins welcome Fantasic kids play area for the little ones!

(801) 302-2117

1804 12600 S. • Riverton, UT 84065

We Offer Catering

CALL: 801-446-6644

3285 W. 12600 S. Riverton, UT 84065

801-446-9766

Guaranteed Auto Body Repairs For ANY Insurance Company

F R E E Skewer with Entree Purchase

FREE hot stone

TREATMENT WITH FULL BODY MASSAGE Expires 12/31/15

FREE foot detox pads with foot massage Expires 12/31/15

Open 7 Days A Week: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.

9495 S. 700 E. #2 (Sandy Village) N E W L O C AT I O N !

10334 S. Redwood Road, South Jordan

801-234-0566

Limit 1 per customer. Expires 12/31/15.

Ah!thentic Italian Pizza

FREE

50% OFF

Limit 1 per customer.

Expires 12/31/15.

Limit 1 per customer.

Expires 12/31/15.

Cheese Bread with Entree Purchase

Buy a Specialty Pizza at regular price &

Receive 50% OFF

anOTheR iTem OF eqUal OR leSSeR valUe Mention coupon when ordering. Cannot be combined with any other coupons or offers. expires 12/31/15

801-446-6644

Chicken Wings

www.tusharexpress.com

1078 West 10400 South • South Jordan, UT 84095 Hours: 11am - 9pm Monday-Saturday • Closed Sunday

801-676-9090

2572 West 12600 SouthRiverton, UT 84065 .

S outhV alley Journal.Com

December 2015 | Page 23 .

Have Yourself an Eco-friendly Christmas

By Peri Kinder

I

t turns out that some scientists think we’re headed for a mass extinction. Merry Christmas!

I guess our greedy attitude about the world’s resources is taking its toll on the oceans, rain forests, various ecosystems and the ability for celebrities to own a different fur coat for every day of the week. In order to reverse this Christmatasrophe, we need to change our wasteful habits. I’ve put together some new holiday rules that might just save the planet. (You can thank me later.)

• Due to the inversion, chestnuts can no longer be roasted on an open fire. Chestnuts can instead be microwaved and then sprayed with a chemical-free Roasting Chestnut air freshener.

• In accordance with PETA guidelines, reindeer will not be allowed to fly for 24 hours without a bathroom or smoke break.

• Naughty children will no longer receive lumps of coal, but will instead be given a stocking full of organic Brussels sprouts.

ters. (Not to save the planet. I just don’t want to read them.)

• Due to the melting of the polar ice caps, Santa’s workshop is being relocated to Canada.

While these changes are great, it’s not just our harmful environmental attitudes that need a holiday makeover.

Unregulated capitalism in America has created a society of materialistic little buggers (i.e. teenagers) who are never content. Cutting back on holiday extravagance could remind your family of the importance of the season. As Thoreau once said, “Simplify, simplify.” (Although you’d think he could have said it once.)

You can tell your kids you’re trying to save money or you can tell your kids that Putin has “annexed” the North Pole and put a sanction on gifts made in Kris Kringle’s workshop. Whatever works.

Decorate your home with nature. Pinecones, dried leaves, artfully arranged twigs and fresh

(Much worse than coal.)

• Colorful Christmas packages can only be wrapped in old newspaper, making them neither colorful nor timely.

• Thanks to global warming, dreaming of a white Christmas is no longer allowed.

• No Christmas trees can be displayed unless they’re made from reclaimed barn wood.

• With the rapid rise in STDs, mistletoe can no longer be hung at office parties. (All other unacceptable behavior has been canceled.)

• Christmas carolers can only go door-to-door with the proper permits and background checks.

• The phrase, “Let your heart be light” only applies if your heart is powered by solar panels.

• Because of the increasing number of people with diabetes, cookies for Santa are no longer allowed.

• No family can send out Christmas newslet-

TREE SERvICES

FENCING

REAL ESTATE

“Intermountain Tree Experts”

Fence and handyman services, repairs and removals. Contact Adam for a FREE estimate! 801-471-9688

Tyler Fox—your Home professional

ROOFING Olympus ROOFing

PLumbING

Trimming, removal, stump grinding

Licensed and Insured Call Spencer:

801-244-3542

PRESCHOOL

LIFE INSuRANCE

jOyFul HEaRTs pREsCHOOl

Life & Disability Insurance

Located in South Jordan for 10+ years.

Now enrolling for 2015-2016. 3 and 4 year olds. $10 OFF Registration with this ad!

pine boughs (cut from your neighbor’s tree) can add a beautiful touch to a mantel or centerpiece. I went in my backyard to find some nature but only discovered little piles of Christmas spirit left for me by my dog.

For Christmas dinner, whip up a delicious batch of grass fed, locally-grown, free range sweet potatoes. Forgo the annual ham or turkey and try a fresh holiday green salad. (Don’t cook reindeer burgers, unless you want PETA to jump out from behind your couch and smack it out of your hand.) You could even give your guests a paper bag full of food scraps as a Start Your Own Compost Kit. Then, on Christmas morning, while you’re sitting with your family amidst piles of gifts made from recycled soda cans, old socks and discarded toilet paper rolls, you can bask in the warmth of an eco-friendly Christmas. Or, according to scientists, it might be the warmth of poisonous gases trapped in the earth’s atmosphere. Happy holidays. l

Low Cost Premium Refund “If you don’t use the insurance, you don’t lose the premiums.”

Roof Repair

801.887.7663

Also A Licensed Contractor | Buy & Sell With Confidence

(801) 750-2593

plumbing uTaH

801-638-2378

Karen: 801-280-0735

Call Ken at 801-449-1932

Serving Wastach Front Since 1973

Plumbing for less! Drain & Water Specialist! $99 Any Drain!

PAINTING

bASEmENT FINISHES

HOmE REPAIRS

PLACE AN AD

PAuL NuNLEy 3RD GENERATION

T. Fox Construction LLC.

Handy Home Services

Promote your business HERE!

Call Paul 801-819-9158

No Job too big or small Licensed & Ins. 801-280-0291

Electrical, plumbing, drywall, painting, bathrooms & kitchens remodeled...

nO jOb TOO small mark Landers 801-641-9644

Call 801.264.6649 to place an ad.

ROOFING

ADvERTISE!

ROOFING

INSuLATION

— Affordable Rates —

s&s ROOFing

Insulation upgrades Save up to 30% on utility cost $$$

PROFESSIONAL PAINTER Licensed & Insured Residential & Commercial

• Basement Finishes • Interior Refreshing • Additions • Kitchen & Bath Updating

promote your business

801-631-6182

Call 801.264.6649 to reserve this space.

.

801.973.1676

All types of roofs • $650 OFF any reroof over 2,000 sq. ft.

GUAREntEEd REBAtES AppLy Attics, Basements, Additions & Remodels Call for FREE inspection: 801-694-0058

LASr

tm

LASER ASSISTED SPINAL HYDRATION

THERAPY

THE ANSWER TO SEVERE BACK AND NECK PAIN. Experience complete relief from the debilitating pain of many severe spine, neck, and joint disorders without surgery, without drugs, and without having to live the rest of your life in agony. This unique therapy combines precision disc rehydration with the healing power of laser and a personalized physical therapy regimen resulting in lasting, pain free benefits that are nothing short of miraculous. Just ask the hundreds of patients who have received it.

NO SURGERY. NO DRUGS. NO JOKES.

THE PAIN STOPS HERE

• DISC DEGENERATION • HERNIATED DISCS • SCIATICA • BULGING DISCS • PINCHED NERVE

“Literally dozens of doctors told me that there was nothing more than they could do for the pain... some even told me to just expect to be in a wheel chair. I went from being among the top 1% physically fit in the army Special Forces to being in so much pain that I could not even tie my shoe or hold my new daughter. I tried everything from physical therapy to drugs for over 5 years for this, but nothing worked Finally, I went to Dr. Smith and did his program. I improved exactly as he told me I would and I lost over 401bs. I couldn’t believe it!

My wife cried “I have my husband back.’”

—Steve M., Army Special Forces

RECENT AUTO INJURY?

ALL TREATMENT IS 100% COVERED BY INSURANCE

LIVE PAIN FREE

BRING THIS IN AND RECEIVE

CALL TODAY TO SCHEDULE

EXPIRES 12/31/2015

ELITE PERFORMANCE HEALTH CENTER

2 LASER TREATMENTS

~801-302-0280~

FOR ONLY $17

13552 S 110 W STE 204, DRAPER — I-15 AND BANGERTER JUNCTION

HOT CHOCOLATE BAR ~Local Favs~ SNOWBIRD

385-722-0326

2882 West 12600 South Riverton, UT 84065

Baby It’s Cold OUTSIDE ~Warm up HERE~

Matthew D. Smith, D.C. CSCS Chiropractic Physician

Ice Cream / Candy Cane / Whip Cream

ALTA

Hershey’s Kisses / Small Scoop of Peanut Butter

BRIGHTON

BUY ONE GET ONE

FREE

SOLITUDE

ANY ITEM OF EQUAL OR LESSER VALUE.

CANYONS

Limit 1 per coupon.

Expires 12/31/15

Vanilla Shot / Almond Joy Creamer / York Peppermint

Yummy Drinks, Gourmet Hot Chocolate & Tasty Treats

Dark Hershey’s Kisses /Raspberry Jam

www.PopShop.Cool

Hershey’s Kisses / Andes Mint Creamer / Candy Cane