The Crossroads Journal

By Emily Fotheringham

 Deseret Peak Management Group recently submitted a concept plan for the empty land in between Harvest Hills and Walmart. Currently called the “Coyote Springs,” the plan covers just over 32 acres.

 Besides using the land to build single family lots (10), the Desert Peak Management Group also is hoping to build a new elementary school and an LDS Church. According to the City Council staff report, the builder is eager to get moving on the preliminary and final plats so that he can make official plans with Alpine School District and the LDS Church.

 The report also states that a park would be developed and that it would likely be attached to the yet-to-be developed city park in Aspen Hills, which would provide a bigger park. The plan also includes green space that would be cared for by the HOA, although it was suggested that the developer wait on putting responsibility on the non-existent HOA until it is fully developed.

 According to the staff report, there have already been questions raised regarding the amount of traffic that a new elementary school could produce. Both the school district and the developer have agreed that because the plans are so preliminary, the exact boundaries are yet to be determined.

 The concept plan has been reviewed by both consulting engineers and the Saratoga Springs Planning Commission, with both groups making recommendations. The City Council has also discussed the developing possibilities, with concern about the canal, an issue that the builder is working on.

By Jennifer Klingonsmith

 Winter’s Day Chili Con Carne

 This chili recipe is one I have used for years. I like the more soup-like consistency and the complementary blend of chili powder and cumin. Tastes wonderful with saltine crackers and grated cheddar cheese. Serve with cornbread and a salad.

1.25 lbs. lean ground beef

1 cup onion, chopped

1 bell pepper, chopped

1  28-oz. can diced tomatoes

2  8-oz. cans tomato sauce

1 16-oz. can kidney beans, drained

2 t. salt

1 1/2 T. chili powder

1 t. cumin

1 t. dried bay leaves

In 3-quart pot, brown ground beef. When mostly brown, add onions and peppers. Saute until vegetables are tender and meat is no longer pink (half of the drippings may be removed, if desired). Add all remaining ingredients. Cover and simmer for 1 hour.

By Rebecca Call

 Eagle Mountain City employee Ifo Pili jumped into action when a disastrous tsunami hit in Samoa.  As a city employee and concerned citizen, Pili organized and carried out a fundraiser held at The Ranches Golf Club to benefit those families hurt by the devastation.  

“Originally,” Pili states, “I had planned on [using the funds to buy and send] blankets, food, clothing and other necessities, but I was contacted by a couple of friends of mine in the NFL.”  

The NFL, represented by Pili, Reno Mahe and Gabe Reid, carried a check for $50,000 to contribute to the relief of the Samoan people affected by the disaster.  The check was presented to the Red Cross who has been in place helping in Samoa since just after the earthquake triggering the tsunami hit. 

When Pili arrived in Samoa he realized that while the basic needs like food and water had been met by the first responders, what the people needed most was help to rebuild their homes.  He, with help from the City of Eagle Mountain, Project Reachout and other charities, is working on different ways to help his native land.  Plans are in the works for more charity events to be held in Eagle Mountain, including what Pili is boasting as the “biggest luau in history.”  

To add insult to injury, Pili shares that in addition to the tsunami, Samoa felt another debilitating blow last year. Just two days after the tsunami hit, a local tuna factory held by Chicken of the Sea went out of business and left approximately 3,000 workers unemployed.  “Maybe the tsunami was a blessing in disguise. Without the tsunami neither the federal government nor any of the charities would have stepped in to help, though this was just as devastating,” Pili explains. 

Residents who would like to lend support to these efforts can contact the city at 801-789-6600.