The cancellation of the May 29th City
Council Meeting made possible the concluding report on City Beehive like
activities. The cashing in of opportunities that for the City equates to a
profit making venture made possible by the dedication of those who live and
work here……Contributions made possible by unselfish work ethics by those who
humbly serve our City, and yes….. Surrounding Communities…..Communities
affectionately called DIXIE by Old Timers and those longing for something
faraway or long ago or for former happy circumstances….. A nostalgic love and
respect for values and character displayed by those who preceded us. (We
need some good news especially in light of the reported maltreatment of
American Veterans by our very own Federal Government).
QUALITIES exemplified in last week’s Council Meeting
and brought forth in annual budget report for 2014-2015. Matthew U. Loo, Development
Services Director reported on status of the newly formed “St. George Resource
Center”. Mr. Loo’s visible expression of accomplishment was in itself a
representation of what can best be described as a loving, caring city…..A
difficult process of providing for those in need and unable to care for
themselves. City efforts were described as Unprecedented and Unique in how we
as a people make charitable contributions in caring for the poor…..An example
for State of Utah.
Mr. Loo announced the appointment of Carol Hollowell
as the new Executive Director of St. George Resource Center, effective June 2nd…..
Carol was highly praised and given high expectations for success based on her
administrative and people skills. SUBA
reportedly stepped forward and committed to donating hours of labor for
construction of this new facility which will include a six days a week Food Bank, Dinning Area,
Sleeping Quarters (Satisfying individual and family needs)
and looking to the future a Grass/Park area on
1.3 acres (To accommodate children of families). Provisions
for an ongoing Soup Kitchen are to be included in this project. A truly
remarkable commitment for a city the size of St. George and one that puts into
action promises of service to others.
In attendance at the Council Meeting of May 22nd
was Rich Farnsworth, Deputy Chief of Police who quietly sat in place of Police
Chief Marlon Stratton. It was explained that Chief Stratton was in Colorado
attending a meeting hosted by the Department of Homeland Security.
In keeping with the spirit highlighting City Beehive
Activity and acknowledging and recognizing individual contributions and
accomplishments by those adhering to said principles of community value…..It
was felt prudent to inform the citizens of St. George what the Police Chief was
up to in Colorado.
It was learned that Chief Stratton, Sergeant Heppler
(Representing
SGPD) and
Brock Belnap (Washington County Attorney) and
two Special Agents (Homeland Security Agents assigned to
work in Washington County) were invited to attend a
Recognition Event hosted by the Department of Homeland Security…..In which those
listed were formally recognized for their service and contributions in
protecting our Nation and Communities. Each was awarded a Certificate of
Appreciation for their accomplishments and dedicated service. (Brock
Belnap was not able to be present and reportedly Department of Homeland
Security will make a formal presentation to Brock at a future County Commission
Meeting).
Chief Stratton was both modest and humble in
articulating his contribution to the events leading to being honored on behalf
of SGPD. It was explained that SGPD had
established a “Fraudulent Identity Security Threat Team” an outgrowth from what
used to be the County Gang Unit. Its focus had been gang activity which
included monitoring drug and associated fraudulent activities. Chief Stratton
credited Sgt. Heppler with coming up with the idea to combine the investigation
of fraud and those entering the country illegally. Ultimately this led to
reformation of the Gang/Drug Unit into what is now known as the Fraudulent
Identity Security Threat Team…..A county wide enforcement effort (Includes
Washington County Sheriff’s Department) and which could not
have achieved the success it now enjoys…..Without the support of County
Attorney Brock Belnap, whose relentless prosecution (Working
with existing State Laws)
has led to convictions……Convictions that when adjudicated result in deportation
of those illegally in the country. Chief Stratton refers to Mr. Belnap as the Quiet Giant (Most
Ethical and Honest in field of law). These awards give
credence to the application of sound work ethics…..Beehive like activities
taking place throughout the City.
Thank You, Ed Baca
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