CROSSROADS THE
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Connecting Eagle Mountain and Saratoga Springs
JOURNAL
www.thecrossroadsjournal.com
Kids shop with EM Lobbyist Saratoga Springs officers By Emily Thompson Staff Writer
By Janette Crump Staff Writer
Saratoga Springs police officers met with community children early Saturday morning, December 3, to participate in the third annual “Shop with a Cop” event. Corporal Jeremy Wright, Saratoga Springs' Fraternal Order of Police representative, said that the organization offers service to the community. Each of the officers present that morning were there by their own choosing. Two of them brought their wives to help with the shopping. The city's victim's advocate and a city volunteer were also there to help bring holiday cheer to some lucky kids. Sergeant Edwin Christensen complimented the gen-
erosity of both Walmart and McDonald's, who made donations to the children. After the children were greeted at the police station and assigned to a “cop,” they got the red carpet treatment as they rode with their police escort to McDonald's where they were treated to whatever they desired for breakfast. The well-mannered children discussed school classes, holiday wishes and their dreams for the future with their new friends. When everyone had eaten their fill, the caravan made their way to Walmart where they were greeted by Kelli, the personnel manager. The kids had their own style of shopping. The Turner family had gone “window shopping and made lists,” explained 15-year-old Makenna. Her 14-year-old brother Zach was quick to mention that
he knew exactly what he would be getting for his three sisters. There was a white cardigan sweater that Makenna had her eye on. Twelveyear-old Kailee would like a Scrabble Flash game and sevenyear-old Ashley's wish was blue fuzzy slippers. Others, like 13year-old Dalia and seven-year-old Nelson Lechuga were eagerly searching the aisles for the perfect gift for each other as well as a little something for themselves. There were children wishing for a doll house, anything ninja, clothes, and Wii games. When the shopping was complete everyone indulged in decorated cupcakes made especially for them in the Walmart bakery. A little more Christmas cheer was shared by all who participated in Saturday's “shop with a cop.”
Lessons learned while stranded on I-15 By Jennifer Klingonsmith Staff Writer A few weeks ago, my husband, daughter and I had the unfortunate experience of being stranded on I-15. I learned some things that day, especially about the price of being towed off the freeway. We were driving along I-15, just north of Orem when our minivan started to overheat and white smoke billowed from under the hood. My husband quickly pulled off to the shoulder and shut off the engine. Lime-green coolant pooled by the front tire. We had blown a head gasket. As we sat contemplating our situation, a Utah Highway Patrol (UHP) trooper pulled up and offered assistance. We asked him if he knew of a good towing company. He said he did and offered to call one for us. We agreed. Ten minutes later, a tow truck arrived. Ten minutes after that, the
three of us, still bewildered at the unexpected course of events, were sitting in a tow truck cab on our way to a repair shop in Lehi. As we drove, we reluctantly asked how much the tow would cost. The driver explained that because the UHP officer had been the one to call him, we would be charged a “state-contracted” rate of $145 per hour. Some other miscellaneous fees were also tacked on to bring the grand total to $190. Unfortunately for us, our insurance would cover only the first $50. I quickly had flashbacks of my husband and I on our honeymoon driving through the desert southwest of Las Vegas. We had been stranded there, too. We were hauled 100 miles into Las Vegas for $250. Now we were being towed about five miles for only slightly less. We felt like we had been taken for a ride . . . on more than just the freeway. Back in the tow cab, I asked the tow operator what he would have charged had we been the ones who
called him. His reply: “Oh, about $50.” The difference in cost bothered me, so I called the Orem UHP office to verify what the tow truck operator had told us. Sergeant Metz explained that the state-contracted rate was high because “wreckers” (as he called them) are required to respond within 15 minutes time. Therefore, UHP calls are given top priority above all other calls. Metz continued that UHP troopers most often used these contracted wreckers for non-consent calls (ie., when there is a safety issue or when a vehicle is blocking traffic). I suggested that for non-emergency situations (such as ours) that UHP troopers should inform stranded motorists of towing options and their potential difference in price. Sergeant Metz stated that he would circulate an email to troopers suggesting they better inform stranded motorists of their options. Hopefully, fewer motorists will get taken for a ride.
There are two critical components needed to grow a city. The most essential is water. Right after the obvious need for water is the necessity of having adequate roads. A transportation highway to move people and goods in and out of the city becomes more and more complex as the city grows. Not that long ago, Eagle Mountain was just a few scattered houses, but now the population has reached 23,000. Not only has Eagle Mountain City grown very rapidly, but its needs for bringing in businesses and moving workers in and out of the city has increased. It was obvious to the mayor and the City Council that SR-73 has limitations and that new roads need to be built. This realization prompted the city to hire a Washington D.C. lobbyist to work with the federal government to procure funding necessary for building an additional component, part of the Mountain View Corridor project. This project would possibly connect the southern boundary of Camp Williams to the northern boundary of Eagle Mountain. The lobbyist knew the ins and outs; he knew the right people to make things happen; however, the process to get funding is complex, and since there are thousands of lobbyists also working to get money for projects for their respective
states and towns, it is not as simple as one might think. Mayor Heather Jackson felt that having a lobbyist was extremely important. Some members in the City Council decided that because the economy is suffering, they needed to terminate the lobbyist’s contract and spend the money more wisely. This means that the mayor will need to spend more of her time in Washington D.C., trying to make this project happen. Eagle Mountain’s city administrator, John Hendrickson, stated that highway appropriations happen only every six years, so having a lobbyist was a good idea. Hendrickson spoke of the complexity of getting funding and that even though the lobbyist was let go, he thinks eventually Jackson will be effective in getting the funding needed. Hendrickson comes with lots of experience. He has been with Eagle Mountain for the past five years, but he has been a city administrator for thirty-seven years. Hendrickson stated, “There are limitations with Highway 73, but a new road is years away from happening. There will be studies for the next couple years. The road will take a decade from planning to finishing it.” Hendrickson, Jackson, the City Council, and the citizens of Eagle Mountain realize that this road will have to happen eventually. The question is, “How long will this project take to bring about in the current economic environment?”
Ranches’ trees removed By Nancy Kramer Staff Writer
What happened to all the trees at the entryway to the Ranches? It seems that there was some kind of blight that had infected the trees and they needed to be removed. On the other hand, SR-73 needed to be widened from three lanes to a four lane divided road, so they would have been removed even if they had been healthy trees.
On a positive note, access into The Ranches is easier with the widened road. Still there are no beautiful trees to enhance the entrance, so what does the future hold? The plan calls for new trees that will be planted in the spring. The old trees were difficult to maintain and prone to disease, so the new trees will be a different species. The new trees will be hardier, and allegedly these trees will even be more attractive than the trees that were extracted.
Page 2
The Crossroads Journal
Thursday, December 15, 2011
What do you think ? Many people don't stop to consider that spending money outside of their own city reduces the amount of monies available to their local schools and government in the form of city sales tax revenue. During this busy shopping season, The Crossroads Journal asked area residents about their shopping preferences. Does the possibility of your spending habits, having a residual impact on our community, make you think twice about buying local?
What do you think about buying local? “Yes it does make me think twice. Even though all the cities need to benefit from the state sales tax, we need to pay attention to what's going on in our community and where the tax revenue is being spent. If our area is struggling, I'd like it to go for that.” -Anonymous Saratoga Springs “I try to buy local. I would like to see us get a Lowe's or Home Depot in this area so that we don't have to go into American Fork. We have several markets, but we need something here to keep us from having to drive into surrounding cities. We'd like to see more here” -Bill Arndt Eagle Mountain
“Of course it makes me want to buy and shop inside this community. All the money would then go to the local community for programs we need.” -Maria Figueroa Saratoga Springs
“Absolutely, it makes me think about it. I try to buy local and American wherever and whenever I can. If you don't buy local, people lose jobs and it has a major effect on the community” -Michael Bradford Eagle Mountain
COMMUNITY CALENDAR Miss Saratoga Springs Scholarship Pageant. Applications are available online. This years pageant will be held March 3. Any young lady who is unmarried, a legal resident of Saratoga Springs and is between the ages of 16 and 21 is invited to participate. Applications will be due by January 9. An orientation meeting will be held January 12 at 7:00 pm at the city offices for all girls and their parents. Pageant director Darcey Williams darceywilliams@hotmail. The Saratoga Springs Library's Christmas tree will be decorated with ornaments listing a book that the library would like to acquire. Patrons may take an ornament and either purchase the book for
them or donate the money for them to purchase the book. This is a wonderful way to expand their library selection for our community.
Before and after school tutoring. For more information call Shari Davis at 801-2148446 or sharidavis.whsvolunteer@gmail.
The Saratoga Springs library is in need of volunteers willing to commit 2-4 hours a week. Contact Sue, 801-766-6513.
Eagle Mountain area seniors. For general questions, contact Carroll Johnson at 318-1595. Information can be found on www.emcity.org. All residents ages 55 and over are invited to attend the monthly activities, including those from Saratoga Springs and Cedar Fort.
Saratoga Springs Literacy Center helps ALL children ages 5-10 years old with FREE tutoring for all reading levels. Register now at the Saratoga Springs Library. Westlake High School is starting a tutoring center and needs volunteers. Algebra I & II, geometry, calculus, chemistry, physics and language arts (writing structure).
Hidden Hollow Elementary is in need of volunteers that will listen to children read on a weekly basis. Please call Joy England at (80)-709-6618 or Hidden Hollow at (801) 7897807.
7618 N. Silver Ranch Road, Eagle Mountain, UT 84005 (801) 407-1340 • thecrossroads@digis.net “Yes, it does make me want to buy more locally. That's why I came shopping here in Saratoga Springs today rather than where I was driving home from today” -Nicole Geiger Saratoga Springs
Managing Editor
LeeAnn Bohman
editor@digis.net
801-789-3015
Advertising/Publisher
Stefanee Glass
thecrossroads@digis.net
801-407-1340
Inserts
Annette Heaton
3201 Barn Owl Way, EM
801-836-5233
Delivery
Stefanee Glass
thecrossroads@digis.net
801-407-1340
The entire content of this newspaper is Copyright© 2011 The Crossroads Journal. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the written consent of the editor or publisher. The opinions expressed herein are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the position of the publisher.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
The Crossroads Journal
Representative Sumsion enters race for Utah governor By Emily Thompson Staff Writer
Governor Gary Herbert has a local contender for the upcoming 2012 governor’s race. State Representative Kenneth Sumsion, who represents district 56 which encompasses Saratoga Springs and Eagle Mountain, announced his candidacy for governor in November. His announcement comes close on the heels of a successful co-chair position for the Redistricting Committee, which released its final approved maps this past fall. Though his third consecutive term is nearly over, Sumsion is starting to get the word out that he has big ideas for the state of Utah. Namely, Sumsion believes that there is more that can be done to fund education in the State of Utah. His contention is that the citizens of the state should have access to the public lands which have been taken control of by the federal government in recent years. Sumsion has said that he believes the state could benefit from lands within the state where natural resources are located being developed and used to improve the state's bottom line. It is his assertion that the public lands currently
held in reserve by the federal government could bring in as much as five percent of the revenue to the state of Utah. He states that five percent is a small portion of the $10 to $20 trillion that the government would stand to gain, if the areas were allowed to be tapped for resources. The possibility of taking back those lands by means of eminent domain is one way that Sumsion believes the students of Utah could benefit from natural resources being sought after and developed. Sumsion feels that there is a reasonable constitutional right and core precedent to press the issue to do so. He has stated that it will be his "number one priority as governor to fund education in Utah by gaining access to the trillions of dollars worth of oil and minerals buried beneath our public lands". Sumsion specifically indicated the area of Escalante National Monument as the source of such revenue. In 1996, then President Clinton made the lands in that region inaccessible for development by declaring the area a national monument. The process by which the land was obtained and the resulting chaos surrounding it hinged on the fact that the state trust lands for education were
taken from the citizens of the state without any public hearings or notices, even to the governor at that time. It is that type of interference by the federal government into the lives of state citizens that Sumsion believes needs to be reduced. He stated, "I want to press the fight as much as we can to protect ourselves from federal government intrusion". He believes that Utah citizens have rights which are being violated by the federal government, and he wants to limit that impact on state citizens as much as possible. He indicated that he will fight for the State of Utah to regain control of itself and take back some of the rights which have been taken by the federal government. In reference to the current state budget of $12 billion, Sumsion noted that $5 billion of that is from the federal government. That concerns him, and he said that he will do all he can to decrease our reliance on the federal government in the future. His logic for doing so is due to the current problems and huge deficit that has been incurred at the federal level. Sumsion related that he is concerned that "the Please see SUMSION on page 9
Page 3
Sub for Santa program at UVU The Christmas season of giving is not too far away. So, as you wrap yourself in a warm coat, think about joining Utah Valley University’s Sub For Santa program in providing clothes, toys and other supplies to children of UVU families in need. “The Sub for Santa program provides assistance to UVU families during a traditionally financially burdensome time. UVU students, faculty and staff are not immune to the economic crisis and this is one way we can potentially ease that burden,” said Alexis Palmer, UVU Volunteer & Service-Learning Center director. The Sub for Santa program matches deserving families with sponsors who provide basic gifts for children. To be considered for Sub For Santa, a family must have at least one child between 18 months and 16 years of age, and one parent must be a UVU employee or a UVU student taking at least six credits during fall semester. “Even though Utah Valley University continues to grow, this is one way that we can still maintain that community feel within our own institution,” said Palmer. “A focus of UVU’s Volunteer & Service-Learning Center is to address poverty-related issues, which is why we sponsor the Sub for Santa program, Giving Tree, Food Drives and the on-campus Food Pantry.” Families looking for assistance attend a mandatory workshop that explains the program to help them identify whether they qualify. They can then apply for the program and
their application is evaluated by a committee to assess financial situation, other circumstances and the number of years a family has or has not received Sub For Santa assistance. “This program provides a UVU family a little help to get through a difficult time,” said Palmer. “For some families the choice of providing Christmas for their children or buying a book for a class is a real issue. We hope that through this program it will help students continue to stay in school and not become too stressed about the financial burden that many are facing.” Those who are accepted are matched with sponsors who are asked to provide two new items of clothing, two new toys and a book for each child. Sponsors typically spend $50 to $100 per child and can contact the child’s parents to find out what the child needs or would like for Christmas. Sponsors arrange a time to deliver the unwrapped gifts to parents, who then put them out in time for Christmas morning. “This is a great opportunity for student clubs, organizations and departments to sponsor families and provide a simple, decent Christmas,” said Palmer. “Whether they sponsor a family through UVU or through United Way of Utah County, what is important is that they are giving back to the community and creating a positive place for all of us to live.” For more information about the program, visit www.uvu.edu/volunteer/subforsanta .html.
Page 4
The Crossroads Journal
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Will work for food Press Release CQ Home Staging
Christian Quiero is offering home staging consultations in exchange for food donations, to feed the hungry locally through the Utah Food Bank. As a Home Stager I make a priority of helping realtors help their clients, but now I feel like expanding my mission beyond the obvious. Until the end of December, I want to work for food. I want to help more, give more, bring more happiness where I can. I always work for some monetary gain, like the rest of us, but I want to expand my mission to a greater cause, so I thought that this month and till the end of December I will work for food, I will provide any realtor or Home seller with a professional home staging consultation in exchange for a generous donation to the local food bank (at least 5 meals).
Professional home staging is the best way to prepare any house for sale and At CQ Home Staging we use techniques and methods that go beyond making a house pretty (almost anyone can do that), we make a house sell! With a national average of 23 days on the market after staged, in today’s market that is really good news for the seller and the realtors, which makes a win situation for every party involved, helping all around. I live in Utah County and I will be donating to the local Utah food bank, but for all of those that live far away, we can also do this long distance. I'll be more than happy to give consultations via e-mail and the donation can be taken to their local food bank. If you would like more information about this topic, or to schedule an interview with Christian Quiero send email to cqhomestaging@gmail.com or call me at 801-472-1445.
The Crossroads Journal
Page 5
SS City Council Notes By Jennifer Klingonsmith Staff Writer
December 6, 2011 The City Council meeting was called to order at 5:30 p.m. Those present included Bud Poduska, Jim Miller, Michael McOmber, Cecil Tuley, Brent Call, Mayor Mia Love, and city staff. Awards Councilman Brent Call was presented with a wall clock and plaque by the police department and former prosecuting attorney, Lindsey Jarvis. They thanked him for his support of both the police department and the justice court during his years as a City Councilman. Mayor Mia Love then presented the two outgoing City Councilman, Brent Call and Cecil Tuley, with standard-sized Saratoga Springs street signs with their names on them. She praised them for their hard work and service to the community. Policy Items Consent Calendar The consent calendar was unanimously approved. Bid award for the public works office and fire station remodel. Capitol Facilities Manager Mark Edwards reported that the construction project was awarded to the lowest bidder, Brubaker Construction. The project would cost an estimated $664,000. The bid award was unanimously approved.
Revised Development Agreement for Western Hills. City staff reported that there were some proposed changes to the development agreement originally approved in 2010. The developer hoped to record the final plat in phases. He also wanted the City Council to approve some different options with the bonding timeline. City staff continued that the developer would not be able to post bond for Aspen Hills Boulevard until his transaction with the LDS Church (for the purchase of land for a new stake center) is complete. Staff noted that the new proposal requires Aspen Hills Boulevard to be deeded to the city in the first phase, but allows the developer to pay for water rights for open space and for the road when his transaction with the Church is complete. Staff thought the agreement was a nice compromise—it protected the city while allowing the developer to continue developing Western Hills (located just east of the Aspen Hills subdivision). Staff also mentioned that the Alpine School District had originally paid for the extension of Aspen Hills Boulevard. It did this with an assurance that the developer would reimburse ASD for part of the cost of the road. The agreement was unanimously approved. Ordinance 11-22 (12-6-11): An ordinance of the City of Saratoga Springs, Utah, amending Title 10 and adopting Chapter 10.08 pertaining to the consump-
tions of alcoholic beverages. City Attorney Kevin Thurman reported that the only law the city currently uses to control the consumption of alcohol is a Utah County law. However, the county law is technically not enforceable within city limits. Thurman stated that the city needed to have its own ordinance regarding alcohol consumption so police would have the ability to enforce it. Thurman continued saying that this ordinance prohibited the consumption of alcohol in any public areas including streets, parks, and sidewalks. He also noted that this ordinance prohibited those who had been drinking from not only operating a vehicle, but also intending to do so. Mayor Mia Love stated that the ordinance would give city police officers proper authority to enforce the ordinance in county parks that were within the boundaries of the city. Councilman Cecil Tuley stated concerns about the definition of “intent” and who made such a judgment call. He also wondered about someone buying alcohol at a store and then walking home with it. Would that person be in violation of the law because he had alcohol on a public sidewalk? Tuley asked. Thurman assured Tuley that the ordinance restricted only the consumption of alcohol, not the possession of it. The ordinance was unanimously approved and the meeting was adjourned.
Page 6
The Crossroads Journal
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Thursday, December 15, 2011
The Crossroads Journal
Page 7
Page 8
The Crossroads Journal
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Dinner and a Movie CUSTOMER CUSTOMER CUSTOMER CUSTOMER
$
12/01/11 ANSWER: Half dollar
whatdoesitsay? Congratulations to Jen Goodall of Saratoga Springs for emailing the first correct answer to last issue’s puzzle! She won 1 free medium pizza from Tenney’s Pizza (formerly 5 Buck Pizza) in Saratoga Springs. The Crossroads Journal wants you to tell us “what does it say?” The first person to email the correct answer to this week’s puzzle NO SOONER THAN DEC 16TH will win 1 free medium pizza from 5 Buck Pizza in Saratoga Springs. Email your guess to thecrossroads@digis.net along with your name, address and phone number. Good Luck!
Westlake FCCLA Christmas Jars fundraiser By Eric Wilcox Chapter President of WHS FCCLA
Westlake High School FCCLA (Family, Career and Community Leaders of America), Westlake’s premier service organization, is organizing the school’s second annual Christmas Jars Fundraiser. This service project will be held through December 15. A jar will be placed in every B3 class, and the students in the class are encouraged to donate spare change in the jar. The class that contributes the most money to the Christmas Jars fundraiser will receive a gourmet meal (salad, main course, dessert)
made by Westlake ProStart. Money earned in the Christmas Jars fundraiser will be going to needy families in the Westlake community during the holiday season. If you know of a family that could be aided, please make an anonymous suggestion to the Christmas Jars suggestion box in the Westlake High School front office. Westlake FCCLA is also asking the community to help donate to the service project. If you have spare change and would like to contribute to our efforts, please donate to the Christmas jar in the front office. Every donation makes a difference! Happy Holidays!
READY-NOW-PIZZA NEW
$ 5 MENU
NO WAIT!
We Deliver! 282 East SR-73
76 6-8 200
School Calendar Eagle Valley Elementary Dec. 19-Jan. 2—Christmas break Harvest Hills Elementary Dec. 15—Reflections awards 6:30 Dec. 16—PTA birthday table noon Dec. 19-Jan. 2—Christmas break Hidden Hollow Elementary Dec. 19-Jan. 2—Christmas break Horizon Elementary Dec. 19-Jan. 2—Christmas break Lakeview Academy Dec. 15—Open enrollment begins Dec. 19-30—Christmas break Jan. 2—Back to school Mountain Trails Elementary Dec. 16—Christmas sing Dec. 19-Jan. 2—Christmas break Pony Express Elementary Dec. 19-Jan. 2—Christmas break Jan. 5—Reflections awards 9:30 The Ranches Academy Dec. 15—Inspiration awards Dec. 16—School sing around 8:30 Dec. 19-Jan. 2—Christmas break Riverview Elementary Dec. 15—Christmas talent show Dec. 16—Christmas sing 1:30 p.m. Dec. 19-Jan. 2—Christmas break Sage Hills Elementary Dec. 15—Choir Christmas concert 6:00 p.m. Dec. 16—Christmas sing-in Dec. 19-Jan. 2—Christmas break Saratoga Shores Elementary Dec. 16—Christmas sing-in Dec. 19-Jan. 2—Christmas break Thunder Ridge Elementary Dec. 15—6th vs. faculty basketball Dec. 16—PJ day/Christmas sing Dec. 19-Jan. 2—Christmas break
Jan. 6—Faculty appreciation day Vista Heights Middle School Dec. 15—Girls’ basketball vs. Lehi Orchestra concert 7:00 p.m. Dec. 19-Jan. 2—Christmas break Jan. 4—Girls’ basketball vs. OC Rockwell Charter School Dec. 15—Girls’ basketball vs. Merit 6:00 p.m. Dec. 16, 17—Christmas Carol on the Air 7:00 p.m. Dec. 19-Jan. 2—Christmas break Jan. 5—“Noise is Off” auditions Girls’ basketball at Summit Academy 6:00 p.m. Jan. 7—Drill team competition at Juan Diego Westlake High School Dec. 15—Wrestling at Hillcrest 5:00 p.m. Ballroom Social Dance 7:00 p.m. Dec. 16—Swim at Tooele Invitational 11:00 a.m. Girls’ basketball vs. Maple Mountain 7:00 p.m. Boys’ basketball at Pleasant Grove 7:00 p.m. Dec. 19-Jan. 2—Christmas break Dec. 20—Boys’ basketball at SLCC vs. Cedar City 4:00 p.m. Dec. 21—Boys’ basketball at UVU vs. Kearns 6:00 p.m. Dec. 22—Girls’ basketball at Payson 2:00 p.m. Dec. 30—Girls’ basketball at Payson 2:00 p.m. Boys’ basketball vs. Orem 4:00 Jan. 3—Back to school Boys’ basketball vs. Springville 7:30 p.m. Girls’ basketball vs. Fremont 6:00 p.m. Jan. 4—Wrestling at Lone Peak 5:00 p.m. Jan. 6—Wrestling at Highland 3:00 p.m. Girls’ basketball at Lehi 5:00 p.m. Boys’ basketball at Lehi 7:00 p.m. Jan. 7—Wrestling at Highland 9:00 a.m.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
The Crossroads Journal by Jennifer Klingonsmith
Leslie’s Family Tree
r o f s ’ t a h W inner? d
By Kim Zebley Restaurant Review
I imagine a unique skill to have is that of controlling laughter. I’m not talking about regular polite laughter, I’m talking about that laughter that starts way down in your chest, travels to your nose and then to the back of your eyes. You try and keep it there, but it doesn’t always work. It’s the kind of laughter that just hits you without warning and you have no idea why you can’t stop the tears from rolling; the kind where everyone just looks at you, wondering why in the world you’ve lost control, because there is really nothing they can see that’s very funny; The kind that just when you think is gone, returns. So I was walking through a store the other day and a book caught my eye. It was called “Awkward Family Photos.” As I flipped through the pages, there were a few that just set me into the “try and not laugh” mode. Oh, I tried really hard, but then the tears started falling and the smile burst open and the laugher squeaks began. Of course, it’s contagious. My son saw my red face and tears and started laughing too. Even though I wanted to read more, I thought it best to quietly close the book, wipe my eyes and walk away. From now on, that’s my plan; don’t think about it, and just walk away. The other day I was able to try my “hold the laughter back” plan. I stopped at a place in Santaquin called Leslie’s Family Tree Restaurant. Some St. George friends told me to try it. Well if they travelled all the way from St. George, I guess 1 hour wasn’t too far for me to go. Leslie’s has a homey feel. There’s a wood burning stove, and guess what covers the walls? Yep, old awkward family photos. I definitely couldn’t pass this one up. I’ve heard Leslie’s is known for their scones, so I figured I needed to order one of those and then I also got a cup of their soup of the day. I know, it’s not much to critique, but the scones are really what they’re known for. I asked the waitress to tell me Leslie’s story. Forty years ago her uncle, Wayne Smith, converted the family-owned store to a restaurant. She showed me a picture of him, of course. After she left, I decided to take a quick look at their other photos. Leslie’s pictures had names written on the glass with a sharpie. That brought a slight chuckle to my throat, but then it happened: I saw the one that flipped the silly switch on and I just stood there as the tears and laughter grew. Suddenly I saw the waitress coming, so in desperation I tried my new technique. I closed my eyes and started reminding myself that these were pictures of the waitress’s family. It would be rude to laugh. I tried my best not to look at her as she brought my food—she wouldn’t understand the tears filling my eyelids to the brim. With an unintended crack in my voice, I asked her to tell me about the picture. Then she chuckled and told me the tale, which sidetracked her to tell me a little more about Leslie’s. This perfectly distracted my thoughts. Phew.
Page 9
Cranberry Chicken This recipe combines everything a cook needs in her kitchen during the holidays: festivity, deliciousness, the ability to feed a crowd, and simplicity. It was served last year at a church function and received many compliments. The chicken is tender and the sauce is divine. I’m not sure what it was in the picture that threw me, maybe the look in the mother’s eyesthey were serious and focused on the camera- as if all was perfect. However, to her side, one child was strangely looking at her younger brother who was screaming and crying. The mom’s look was classic, as if she were saying through her tooth filled smile, “Just look at the camera and smile, or someone is gonna get it!” Her look was determined to convince all viewers that they really were a happy family. Ok, so I wiped the tears yet again, and sat down to my cup of steaming hot taco soup. It was more of a chili in texture and thickness, but didn’t taste like chili. It had better than the classic, taco soup taste. It was really soothing, home cooked goodness, and was perfect for my achingfrom-laugher gut. No broth, but gravy, chunky, not spicy, and definitely hearty. I would’ve loved to take home the recipe and I should’ve brought some home for dinner. The scone was HUGE and cooked to perfection. It was big enough to serve two or three, with plenty of hills and valleys to hold the yummy honey butter. That’s always a treat. I brought most of it home to my children’s delight. Nope, I don’t have much more to say about the food, but that it was good. I have no complaints. The restaurant had its own charm to it, the pictures were
interesting (and funny) and it was a nice stop off the beaten path. Now why in the world would anyone go out of their way to Leslie’s? Well, I’m not sure I’d recommend going out of your way, but maybe I can suggest some reasons that will drag you in that direction. There is Rowley’s Apple Farm that is great to go to in the fall. Or, if you want to see a bald eagle in the wild, I’ve seen quite a few in their nests along Utah Lake, in the winter. Just head south on Redwood, past civilization, and look in the big trees along the lake. Last spring, at the crossroads where you turn left to go to Leslie’s, I saw a bald eagle up close. It was in a nest built on a telephone pole right on the main road. That was an amazing site. Then, of course, there is the old gas station on the way… what a great family photo opportunity, just in case you want some unique, one-of-a-kind (maybe awkward) family photos. At Leslie’s, once you’ve ordered and decide to look around, remember the plan: don’t think about it, and just walk away. The huge scone was $3, the cup of soup was $2.29. Breakfasts range from $6.50- $14, hot lunch, $9.50 and up, and dinners are over $13. Sandwiches and burgers are between $5.59 and $8. Kid’s meals are $3.99. American and Mexican cuisine. Located at 77 West Main Street, Santaquin, UT.
8 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 1 bottle French salad dressing (8 oz.)
1 can whole cranberry sauce (16 oz) 1 pkg. dry onion soup mix
Mix the dressing, cranberry sauce, and soup mix. Pour over chicken in a 9x13 pan. Bake uncovered at 350 degrees for 1 hour. Can be served over rice. Serves 8.
SUMSION Continued from page 3
large federal deficit will eventually suffocate Utah, and we need to prepare now for a time when those federal funds will no longer be available to us in the State of Utah". As part of his plan to reduce the need for federal monies, the potential governor plans to continue the push to bring large corporations and businesses to the state for an improved jobs outlook. He highlighted the fact that regaining control of the public lands in question would bring a large number of jobs to the state. "The access to public lands would create jobs for many people across the state," he related. He remarked that he would also work to create, maintain and improve upon current job growth. As part of the process, he would also do all he could to get government out of business so that there was more incentive for companies to seek opportunities and create jobs. Sumsion feels that there is a
lot of over-regulation and control on states that prohibit the opportunity to reward hard work with low costs and lower tax rates. His theory is that other states feel the same way, and he is interested in aggressively seeking a coalition amongst other states to fight against the federal government. He relates that the governor is in the best possible position to build to such a coalition, and he hopes to win the opportunity to do so. Representative Sumsion's own background in financial management is one factor which he feels qualifies him for the job of governor. He received his masters in accounting from BYU while working in businesses all across the country. He has held various positions as a financial analyst, a systems consultant, and other CPA responsibilities as well as serving six years as a state representative. He stated, "Utah is at a crossroads economically, and it's time to start to take more control of our state." Though he feels that "the state has done well, we need to do better," related Sumsion.
Give the gift she really wants! gift certificates available
50
%
off
Laser Hair Removal Microdermabrasion or Facial
40
only $
expires 1/31/12
Laser Hair Removal • Microdermabrasion • Acne Treatment • Chemical Peels • Teeth Whitening • and more
CALL TODAY! (801) 884-3508 • 3700 Campus Drive • Eagle Mountain
Page 10
The Crossroads Journal
Thursday, December 15, 2011
THE SERVICE DIRECTORY
Attorney and Counselor
INTERNET & CELLULAR
PET SITTER
BANKRUPTCY
LANDSCAPE
PHOTOGRAPHY
• • • • • • • • • • •
CHIROPRACTOR
Custom Landscaping & Design Outdoor Lighting Sprinkler Install/Design/Repair Custom Water Features Rock Walls/Patios Vinyl Fencing Tree Planting/Aeration Curbing Ryan Mitchell Sod Installation 801.541.1865 Licensed & Insured www.avantgardelandscaping.com 21 Years Experience
LASH EXTENSIONS
PHOTOGRAPHY
HANDYMAN SERVICES
LOST MONEY
REAL ESTATE
HERBALIFE
MASSAGE
THRIFT STORE
Is Your Back in Knots?
801.789.5416
Auto injuries covered 100% Licensed massage therapist available All ages welcome Trigger point massage with every visit
3688 Campus Dr. Suite 110 • Eagle Mountain • The Ranches
BRENDA MITCHELL Owner bmitchell.shtreasures@gmail.com
801-766-0788
SECOND HAND TREASURES thrift store 115 West Main Street • Lehi, UT
www. secondhandtreasures.com facebook • secondhand treasures thriftstore Bring in this ad for 10% off
HOUSE CLEANING
MASSAGE
Ranches Housekeeping Service
ADVERTISE HERE Advertising in The Service Directory is like handing out 10,000 business cards in one day
✓Reliable ✓Licensed and Insured ✓Great Prices Give us a call!
$3000 per month for 1 year or $3500 per month for 6 months
789-2457 rancheshousekeeping.com
Contact Stefanee at 407-1340 or email your business card to thecrossroads@digis.net
GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE!
Without advertising, a terrible thing happens...
Nothing...
Call Stefanee to place your ad
789-4859 801-407-1340
Thursday, December 15, 2011
The Crossroads Journal
Page 11
THE CLASSIFIEDS EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENTOPPORTUNITIES OPPORTUNITIES
Dance Studio. Zumba, Yoga, TurboKick and Boot Camp. Punch Passes available. Located in the Ranches. www.motiondancestudio.com E1215
has an immediate opening for a writer willing to cover the EM City Council meetings and take news assignments. Digital camera preferred, but not required. Please email editor@digis.net or call 801789-3015. ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT for software company in the Ranches (Eagle Mountain) part time, flexible schedule between 12pm-6pm weekdays, $12-$14 DOE, learn more at http://iapplicants.applicantpro.com E1201
BEST MOM JOB! Earn $500-$5,000 a month. We train! Work at home. 2 positions to fill. For more details call 801-635-9602. E1201
GENERAL SERVICES SERVICES GENERAL
PERSONAL INSTRUCTION PERSONAL INSTRUCTION
FREE CROSSROADS DSLR PHOTOGRAPHY CLUB. Meetups on Tuesdays in Saratoga Springs. Learn about your DSLR, lighting, editing & more. www.LouishPixel.com 801-400-0003. E0405
TUTORING. Certified teacher with 17 years experience will tutor in your home. Grades Pre-K-fifth. All subjects. $20 an hour. References upon request. Call Katie after business hours. 828-5805. E0219
MAINTAIN, NOT GAIN this holiday season! Exercise classes at In Motion Dance Studio. Zumba, Yoga, TurboKick and Boot Camp. Punch Passes available. Located in the Ranches. www.motiondancestudio.com E1215
ON-SITE COMPUTER SERVICES for home & small business. Virus & spyware removal, internet filtering, upgrades, repairs, home networks. Industry certified. 10 years experience. FREE estimates. Steve Stockmal 801-7895682. E0119
DRUM LESSONS Fun, certified teacher, 36 yrs. experience, positive influence, professional drummer & band leader, all ages/levels, studio in Saratoga Springs, references available. Ken Culmone 768-0708/367-2787. E0119
PIANO TUNING - the musician's perfect gift. Book now for $14 savings in December/January. 801-57-23456. E0119
MAINTAIN, NOT GAIN this holiday season! Exercise classes at In Motion
PRESCHOOL PRESCHOOL & & CHILDCARE CHILD CARE CELESTIAL DAYCARE in Harvest
Hills, Spanish & English instruction, preschool activities, meals/snacks, play area, 14 yrs exper, State Licensed. Now enrolling. Weekdays 7:00 am - 6:00 pm. FT-PT celestialdaycare.net 830-8918 / 341-8305. E0217
LITTLE ME PRESCHOOL offers a multi-sensory approach to learning. Classes are being offered for 3 and 4 year-olds and will be taught by Lacey Anderson M.Ed. Call 801-735-3252.
is a FREE newspaper delivered every 1st & 3rd Thursday to over 9400 homes in Eagle Mountain & Saratoga Springs ••••••• For information on advertising email thecrossroads@ digis.net or call 801-407-1340
Steven J. Weaver O.D. • W. Carlan Reese O.D. M-TH 8:00 am - 5:00 pm • F 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
801-768-1900 TIME TO USE YOUR FLEX SPENDING DOLLARS!
To place an ad in The Classifieds Mail or drop off your ad with payment to: The Crossroads Journal 7618 Silver Ranch Road Eagle Mountain, UT 84005 by Thurs, Dec. 29 by noon
Classifieds are only $12.00 for one month or $18.00 for two months. Add a border for $1.00 PER MONTH or a picture for $2.00 PER MONTH
30 WORD MAXIMUM For more information call Stefanee at 407-1340
Page 12
The Crossroads Journal
Thursday, December 15, 2011