Eagle Mountain, Saratoga Springs, and Cedar Valley
Saturday, December 7, 2013
TheCrossroadsJournal.net
Gray Thursday the New Black Friday Shambray Galamb Staff writer Thanksgiving Day was the kick off of early shopping for Christmas. Many retailers began offering deals right after the
turkey and pie had been passed. Although, complaints were voiced about the early shopping day deemed “Gray Thursday” this year. Crowds were controlled with careful planning from our local Wal-Mart. Wrist bands and time specific specials
Thanksgiving day shoppers grabbing great deals.
limited the problems associated with the “Black Friday” shopping experience. Many items were still available even after the time limit and shoppers seemed to enjoy the specials with the more relaxed atmosphere.
Photo credit Shambray Galamb
SS City Council rejects tavern zoning near Harvest Hills Jennifer Klingonsmith Staff Writer
Nearly 100 residents packed city council chambers on the November 19 city council meeting--a large majority there to dissuade city council members from allowing a proposed tavern to be built near the entrance of the Harvest Hills subdivision. City council members agreed with residents and voted 5-0 to deny taverns as an accepted use in the Regional Commercial (RC) zone. Originally, Louis Porras, a resident of Eagle Mountain, asked that that the city allow taverns as a permitted use in the RC zone. Previous to the proposal, taverns and bars were not permitted in any land-use zone. When the Planning
Commission reviewed the proposal, the commissioners voted 2-2, forwarding neither a positive or negative recommendation. City staff, in writing conditions that would mitigate the impact of a tavern within the city, suggested that only one tavern be allowed for every 20,000 residents. Proposed code also suggested that a tavern not be allowed within 500 feet of residences and not be an allowable business in the Planned Community zone. Taverns (an establishment that sells more beer than food) would not be allowed in the “Gateway” area. The Gateway is defined as the area immediately surrounding the intersection of SR 73 and Redwood Road. During public comment on the issue, applicant Louis
Porras stated that a tavern would have a positive impact on Saratoga Springs, saying that it would provide employment opportunities to residents and revenue for the city. He explained that he did not want to build a restaurant that served alcohol because he did not want to have children where alcohol was being served. Many residents voiced their opinions on the matter. Concerns included an increase in DUI’s on Saratoga roads, the burden on police resources, and the impact of such an establishment on the family culture and local youth. Harvest Hills residents were also adamant that a tavern not be at the entrance of their neighborhood. City council members also expressed their opinions
Eagle Mountain holds annual Turkey Trot Arianne Brown Editor/Staff Writer On Thanksgiving morning, a record 500 people braved near freezing temperatures to participate in Eagle Mountain’s annual Turkey Trot. The event started at Hidden Hollow Elementary and ended at the furthermost entrance at the Eagle Park subdivision in the City Center. Participants ranged from competitive high school and local athletes, to the casual runner. There were even many parents with strollers and children in tow and by their side. For many years, Eagle Mountain has held this event free of charge as a way to serve the community. Volunteers for the event consisted of local residents, members of the Eagle Mountain Youth Council and reserve firefighters from the local Unified Fire Department. These volunteers could be seen directing traffic, acting as parking attendants, registering athletes and handing out prizes and treats at the finish line. A few firefighters were even seen amidst the athletes, running in complete fire uniform. The race was set to begin at 8:00 a.m. sharp, with three separate groups divided into different start times. First, there were the competitive athletes, hoping to win a turkey, a pie or
both. They were followed by the slightly less competitive, and then those with strollers and participants opting to walk the course. Among the competitive athletes were high school athletes from Westlake High School, a few from nationally ranked cross country team, American Fork High School and local elite athletes, Mikki Grimley and Zachary Case. Grimley started out fast, leading the women from start to finish, averaging a 6:20 pace for the 3.7 mile course. Case found himself among a group of high school athletes. Modestly, Case stated, “I kept the high school kids within view they were jogging.” Case finished in a time of 22:17 (6 minute pace), winning first place in the adult male division, with a turkey and pie to boot. As the race went on, hundreds of participants finished the course. The Hutton family with their four young children, albeit a bit cold by the end, found a new family tradition that they hope to continue. Each participant was met with much appreciated hot chocolate, doughnuts and apples, with many winning prizes in a raffle drawing. As one who participated in this event, I will say that it was a fantastic way to start my Thanksgiving. I look forward to the event next year.
and why they would be voting against allowing taverns within the city. Councilman Michael McOmber stated that city code existed to protect residents’ well-being and uphold the collective morals of the community. A tavern does not meet those standards, he concluded. Councilwoman Shellie Baertsch stated that she would have been more open to allowing a restaurant with a liquor license, but that a tavern was not appropriate for Saratoga Springs.
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The Crossroads Journal
Will the police raise my child?
Matt Shauerhammer Staff writer If your child won’t go to school, call the police. If your child won’t go to church, call the police. If your child won’t do the laundry, call the police. If your child is using foul language, call the police. If you have failed miserably at being a parent, call the police. People routinely call the police to raise their children and I have responded for all of the aforementioned parenting problems. Unfortunately, the premise of police parenting is to threaten a child that police officers are going to “take them away” or “not be so nice” or will “get you in line.” Those threats install a software in your child that tells them police officers are to be feared and eschewed. Nowhere in my job description does it say “instill the fear of God in your child.” The last thing I want as a police officer is for your child to have to be scared of me when they are in a legitimately vulnerable, desperate situation someday. Several times a year I respond to vicarious parenting calls. In general, the call originates because of years’ worth of culminating, systematic breakdowns in daily parenting. Parenting is a full-time job.
You can’t take vacation. You can’t take sick time. You can’t outsource your job to a police officer. For some parents, the idea of actually parenting a child is a daunting task. Parents want to be “cool.” They want to be perceived as their child’s “best friend.” A word to the wise: Being a “cool” parent isn’t cool when you are calling me to raise your child. I am all in favor of parents being friends with their children. To be a child’s friend is about being a steward, a mentor and someone your child respects. Children won’t respect someone they can walk all over. Being a friend to your child isn’t about letting them do, have, or dictate whatever they want. It is about having realistic boundaries and perpetual discipline with a steady dose of love. It isn’t about letting your child leave home in the middle of the night to do whatever their finite minds can conjure up just because if you don’t let them go, they will simply “sneak out anyway.” When there are no realistic boundaries and there are no values being taught in a home, children run roughshod over the top of whoever is in their way. If your child doesn’t respect you as their parent, they will never respect me as an officer. Being a “cool parent” isn’t so cool when
Saturday, December 7, 2013 I am arresting your child for smoking marijuana and getting drunk while they were respecting their “cool parents” by throwing a party in your house when you were out of town. My plea for parents is to be uncool. Don’t be the cool parent all the time. A healthy dose of bad guy is the best thing you can possibly do for the good of your child. Children need boundaries. They need a set of well thought out rules and parameters to live by that are methodically enforced. Otherwise, your child will end up dealing with their really uncool “police parents” over and over again until a judge finds a suitable “timeout” for them in jail or prison where other “police parents” will “baby-sit” them until they learn the hard way to “obey the house rules.” Your child will thank you someday for policing them so I don’t have to.
A Tradition of Service
Emily Fotheringham Staff Writer
With the holidays in full swing many families are making room for their favorite holiday traditions. Connie Erickson’s family is no different. When she, her husband and their blended family of eight kids moved to Eagle Mountain in 2000, she knew that they would have to think outside the box to create holiday traditions that they could share with their busy family. Thirteen years later, one of their primary traditions includes the giving of service. Erickson states, “We found that Christmas had turned into giving mom and dad a list of what was wanted for Christmas. We felt that maybe the true meaning of Christmas was being missed, plus it was getting very expensive. We felt that the true meaning of Christmas giving, needed emphasized more. The only presents exchanged are for the grandchildren. We also felt the pressure of time with our married kids and the stress of trying to make everyone happy by attending everything around Christmas Day. To us, this out of the box Christmas allows our kids more time around Christmas, requires
less money of them buying presents, and hopefully helps them feel the spirit of Christ as they do service and spend time together as a family.” So far, the family has completed a wide range of services including donating angel tree gifts, raking leaves at the Tracy Aviary, cleaning the house of a loved one moving and taking dinner and money to a family with a child going through cancer treatments. Even singing Christmas carols has provided the spirit of service for the family. Says Erickson, “At first, this idea wasn’t willingly embraced. It took some explaining, experiencing it and growing to enjoy it, to make it work. If you feel passionate about spending more quality time with your family and making service more important, your passion will wear off on your participants. Some activities are more successful than others, but in the end, the objective is always met. More family time, less stress, less money and more serving.” Residents needing ideas to incorporate a tradition of service in their families can visit www.unitedwayuc.org, utahvalleyfamilysupport.org, and www.habitatuc.org to get started.
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The Crossroads Journal
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The Crossroads Journal
Saturday, December 7, 2013
Saturday, December 7, 2013
Meet Danielle Palmer: Getting Involved in the Community Danielle Palmer Staff Writer
Like many residents in this city, I am a young parent with a small family, just beginning. When I moved to Eagle Mountain almost four years ago, I had been married for just over four years and my oldest of three sons was only three years old. I didn’t know much about how cities are run, and I wasn’t much interested in city government or politics at all. I just wanted to live in a nice, affordable place and raise my children in a safe environment. I think this description puts
me not far from the norm in this city. CNN Money Magazine has recognized us as being the number one youngest city in the country, with our median age being only 19.9 years old. I’d venture to guess that about half our population consists of our children. This being said, I know I’m not alone when I describe my point of view about not being very involved in the community. The younger generation just isn’t. I grew up in a small town in Idaho and didn’t care to learn about city government in my youth. This hadn’t changed much in my early adulthood either. I didn’t think about how parks got there, I was just glad they were there. If there seemed to be a problem I expected “them” to fix it. I didn’t think about how the roads were built. I didn’t think about how we got water or electricity. I didn’t think about who decided on community activities. I just wanted to have fun things provided because I liked that small-town feel that I was accustomed to from growing up in Idaho. I always felt that when something was wrong, the unknown “they” were supposed to take care of things. How
The Crossroads Journal often have we heard people say phrases like, “They really should take care of that,” but who’s “they?” They…are You! When I started writing for the Crossroads Journal, my first assignment was to cover what happens in city council meetings. I remember my first time attending a meeting, I sat there feeling like I didn’t know what anyone was talking about and wondering how I would write about it. As long or boring some meetings were, I continued to attend these meetings and slowly it began to sink in that we have a voice. These city officials are the ones making the decisions to provide us with what we need and want in our city, but often they are left alone to make these decisions, and what a hard job that is! They are often heard pleading for more input from residents to help them in making these decisions, because they don’t want to do it alone. I had never realized how much power I had, as an individual, to make a difference in the community until I took this writing job and began to learn more about what happens in our city. I’ve heard people complain all the time about not being heard, but there are so many city council meetings where no public comments are offered. There are council meetings when I am one of the two people sitting in to listen. We don’t live in a dictatorship country, and because of this, we each individually have the
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opportunity to talk to our leaders and give them our ideas and insights. They are pleading for it. I wouldn’t have known this if I hadn’t started attending council meetings. The greatest thing I’ve learned over the past couple of years writing for the Crossroads Journal is that as a citizen of this city, I matter and I do have a voice, if I would just speak! There are far too many people living in this city who didn’t bother to vote on Election Day. There are far too many people in this country who do the same. But if we don’t, who will? Taking care of this community not “their” responsibility, it’s ours. Get involved! If there is a problem you notice, either try to remedy the problem yourself, or if you need resources, ask the city administration for help. They are always looking for volunteers, and are pleasantly surprised when people offer their help! Follow the city website, which is being revamped. Follow the city’s Facebook page and their YouTube channel. The council members have emails and
phone numbers provided to you. If you don’t get a response from them that way, go to a council meeting! I know there are lots more residents just like me, residents who moved to Eagle Mountain for that safe, affordable environment in which to raise young families. But if we remember it’s not necessarily about politics, but about our way of life, all we need to do is be actively involved in city decisions. I’m so happy that I took this position to cover city council meetings when I did. It’s drastically changed the way I view the world around me, and it’s been empowering. I look forward to what the future will bring.
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The Crossroads Journal
Business Spotlight: Saratoga Auto Parts here to serve complete car care needs Jennifer Klingonsmith Staff Writer Near the north end of Saratoga Springs, across from the Harvest Hills entrance, sits an auto parts store ready to meet the needs of Saratoga and Eagle Mountain residents. Though easily overlooked when traveling at 50 m.p.h, Manager Chance Shepherd encourages residents to take a
Crossroads Poetry Corner Feeling Autumn By Danielle Palmer the scent of caramel streams in the air over burnt pecans and brown sugar dreams crystallized into tears held still and silent like the sap on a crying maple tree
Eagle Mountain resident, Wendy Jackman (pictured above) is aware that many marriages fail to stay on the high of the honey-
within 24 hours. Shepherd also stated that employees are happy to help customers in any way that’s needed. Complimentary services include a battery charging station and tester, a “check-engine” diagnostic tool, as well as a solid knowledge about car maintenance and repair. Shepherd, himself, has worked in the parts industry for 10 years. Saratoga Auto Parts is open for business Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturdays, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. (winter hours). It is located at 2184 North Redwood Road and can be reached at 801-753-9811. moon period. She knows that life can throw people and marriages into a rut. Jackman states, “There is nothing more enjoyable than being happy in love and feeling like you are living your ‘happily ever after’ not just enduring it.” To help others reignite, or keep burning the fire in their own marriages, Jackman points to The Dating Divas, a blog created to help encourage dating in marriage. Jackman is one of many contributors to The Dating Divas whose mission is, “Strengthening marriages, one date at a time.” She states, “We felt with the rate of divorce, it was important to help anyone who was looking for it. And that is just what we do!” The blog got started four years ago when a school teacher named Tara Carson decided to email twenty of her friends for suggestions on fun dates – a move that had everyone involved planning and dating again. Once word of
is looking for sponsors to help fund the event, and expressed his enthusiasm in its continuation as it was in the top three of the Wilderness Circuit three years in a row, out of 50. Becky Jones thanked the council for fixing the pathways near her neighborhood and expressed her appreciation to Heather Jackson and Nathan Ochsenhirt for their service, stating that the city will be missing out on their future service, and that they had made a big difference in the city. During the council comments, CM Ochsenhirt reminded residents not to park on the streets during upcoming winter nights, and to be considerate and aware of our neighbors needs. Mayor Jackson expounded t hat their full time code enforcement officer will be issuing citations for those in violation of this code. CM Ireland read from Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address, stating that it is applicable to us all today. The Finance Director of Utah Government Financial Officers Association, Dean Lundell, presented the CAFR Award for Eagle Mountain City’s Financial Report. The UGFOA is a professional organization in the US and Canada that provides expert knowledge in public finance management to enhance the expertise and professionalism of financial managers and provide recognition of achievements in financial leadership. Because of the comprehensive annual financial report provided by the city, which takes many hours of work to provide, the award was presented. This is not the first time Eagle Mountain has received this award. Paul Jerome was recognized and a cer-
tificate was presented to Mayor Heather Jackson. A plaque will later be provided. Tonette Roberts was appointed to the Senior Council for a 4-year term, and the Veterans Board was organized, which consisted of Luke Pannell, Kindra Jones, Casey Jones, and Elizabeth Hoepfner. Youth were also appointed to the Youth Council, namely Jason Olson, Weston Dastrup, Taylor Jensen, Jace Christian, and Christian Ulibarri. The Consent Agenda, consisting of October 15 Minutes, The Rock Creek Bond Release, Meadow Ranch Development Agreement, and Evans Ranch Final Plat, passed with all voting yes except CM Painter voted no. City Council Meeting took a Recess for the Canvass 2013 Municipal General Election official results, including early and absentee votes. The results were approved by unanimous vote, giving Christopher Pengra 2062 votes, and Heather Jackson 952. For City Council, Adam Bradley had 1801 votes, and Tom Westmoreland 1346 votes. Bryan Free was only ten votes away, with 1336, and Nathan Ochsenhirt 1147. Voter Turnout for this election was 30.12%. Many in the assembly exited at this point in the meeting and there were no public comments given during the Public Hearing. The purpose of the public hearing was to receive comments from the public related to the issuance of the 2013 Water & Sewer Revenue bonds so the pricing committee can make a final determination on issuance. Issuing bonds will generate proceeds to construct a pipeline for the city to the
second look at Saratoga Auto Parts and take advantage of the store’s friendly service and large availability of parts. “We have a great team, and we’re happy to serve and get people what they need,” he said. Saratoga Auto Parts opened in 2011 and carries everything from windshield wipers and coolant to harder-to-find import auto parts and replacement engines. Most special orders arrive
Giving marriage a boost with ‘The Dating Divas’ Emily Fotheringham Staff writer
and the sweet savory smoke from the pasture no longer there and the leaves in the barrel down the street warming the man’s frozen fingers as they crumble in the glowing heat to embers lighting his face the cold air keeps me warm since I cuddle inside your sweater that holds in my heat like a comfort from within me and I catch my moments in a cloud of breath held aloft in the air before condensing into beads of moisture on your skin More of Danielle Palmer’s poems can be read online at dani-the-naiad.deviantart.com. If you would like your poem featured in the Crossroads Poetry Corner, submit your poems to Danielle Palmer at dani6angel@gmail.com with “POETRY CORNER” in the Subject Line. Poems must be under 30 lines. If the poem needs to be printed in an exact form, please specify.
EM City Council Meeting Danielle Palmer Staff Writer At the EM City council meeting, November 19, 2013, at 7:00 pm, a large crowd gathered. The mayor made an announcement stating that BLM has placed a “cease and desist” on the construction zone causing havoc to nearby neighbors at Lake Mountain Road. This was a relief to public commenters. Marcie Taylor submitted many pictures of the area of concern, and Marianne Smith also expressed further concerns about cleaning up the mess. Mike Kieffer had concerns about road conditions and other damages near construction sights, and suggested looking into a stop sign for trucks in the area and perhaps a bond held for possible damages. Jen Morrison and Heather Wof�inden expressed concerns about historical preservation of city landmarks. They asked the council to pass a resolution to officially provide more organization to the preservation and education of local history, as well as to prohibit littering. Jeremy Nielson asked about city plans to either help or not help fund the rodeo for this coming year. He
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$5 off a pair of Carquest wiper blades with coupon Expire 03/14 the dates spread, the blog was created and it has been a huge success leading to four e-books, a marriage Master’s program in the Diva Community, and speaking engagements around the world. The free site features a wide range of theme date suggestions for couples and groups, as well as many more sections, including everything from spicing up dinner to looking your best for your spouse. There are also many printables available on the site to give your spouse a little something extra. When asked her best dating advice Jackman stated,, “Dating your spouse doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive; it is meant to be time spent together that is fun. This reminds us why we love the other person and it gets us out of the house regularly.” Jackman went on to list the top ideas on the site. The first idea Jackman listed is to recreate your first date as
Central Utah Water Conservancy District’s wholesale water system. The original amount of the bonds was reduced by approximately $2M from the original estimate, as the city was able to negotiate with CUWCD to pay for portions of the original project. As no comments were given, the public hearing was closed and the meeting concluded at about 8 pm. Please see the city website for upcoming events, announcements, and full meeting minutes as well as PowerPoint presentations given. You can also watch these meetings in full on YouTube under Eagle Mountain City.
closely as you can to the original. “Bringing back all the memories of that day - even if it was awful, will bring back laughs and smiles,” Jackman stated. “Being silly is our next best date. Dress silly, act silly and be silly! What else can you ask for but a good time out with the one you love and maybe some close friends? Finally, discover a new place together. Whether it is near or far, a big town or small, just learning something new together is a lot of fun.” Jackman concluded by stating, “Learning how to effectively communicate, love each other with all you have, spend time together in the craziness and still show them that you care can be tough, but it is crucial to your lasting relationship.” If you are interested in adding some spice to your marriage, visit www.thedatingdivas.com.
Saturday, December 7, 2013
The Crossroads Journal
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