Sunday, Feb. 25, and Monday, Feb. 26, on the 10 p.m. newscast on Channel 2, I watched the story that was put together by Karen Enquist. She was talking about the Salt Lake County Sheriff's Office helicopters and the relationship with the Skaggs family and American Stores.
I really think it is sad when the news media have nothing better to do than to turn to tabloid-type journalism and attempt to make something seem sinister and shady when there is really no basis for it.I have known the Skaggs family for many years. I grew up in the same neighborhood and went to school with their children. I have always admired them as a family of integrity and absolute honesty. These people are down to earth and have always been very generous with their wealth and the people of Utah. When they had stores in Utah, they employed thousands of people for many years. Even now, when they could have made the choice to headquarter American Stores anywhere, they chose Utah.
That choice alone will employ some 1,500 people when the building is finished. Not to mention the people who are employed in its construction. The Skaggses have always been extremely generous people. They have donated millions of dollars to the University of Utah and Brigham Young University.
It is true that they choose not to be in the spotlight and would rather do things quietly. What is wrong with that?
If they choose to assist the sheriff's office by only charging a nominal fee for the hangar that the sheriff's helicopters are in (I believe it was said $100 per month), more power to them. Be grateful that their generosity saves the taxpayers additional monies.
Channel 2 questions whether the money spent on the helicopter program is worthwhile. I agree with the sheriff: If it saves one life or if it assists in the hindrance of one less crime, it is well worth it.
Wally Rose
Sandy