Each year, the Taylorsville Police Department invites fifth-grade students from the city’s eight elementary schools to help design the official TVPD holiday card. This past year, more than 180 drawings were submitted.

After narrowing the entries to the Top 30, the finalists were shared with Mayor Overson and Chief Cottam. Choosing just one winner proved too difficult, so three drawings were selected. The artwork was exceptional, and TVPD appreciates the time and effort every student put into their submission.

The three selected drawings were created by Noelle and Alice from Calvin Smith Elementary and Britton from Bennion Elementary. In January, Noelle, Alice and Britton joined Mayor Overson, Chief Cottam and Dets. McKinnon and Christensen for lunch at Café Rio in Taylorsville. The experience also included a ride in a TVPD police car and plenty of great conversation.

“They were just exuberant and a delight,” said Mayor Kristie Overson, who added that she brought her holiday card with her to the lunch to have the students autograph so she can say in the future that she “knew them when.”

Asked what advice the students would give others their age, each shared thoughtful and memorable responses. Britton’s advice was simple and direct: “Don’t do dumb stuff.” A middle child, Britton enjoys football and BMX riding and aspires to become a fashion designer.

Alice shared, “Believe in yourself and be kind to yourself.” The oldest in her family, Alice is enrolled in a dual Chinese immersion program and hopes to serve a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She also aspires to a career that allows her to apply her artistic talents, such as becoming a food stylist.

Noelle offered, “Don’t do math every day; have a good balance,” and emphasized the importance of having good friends. Noelle has siblings, loves to travel and has even been on safaris in Africa, where some of her family lives. She hopes to one day play in the WNBA.

It was our pleasure getting to know these outstanding students, and we wish them the very best.

Employee of the Month

Det. Landolfi is TVPD’s latest Employee of the Month. He currently serves as the School Resource Officer at Taylorsville High School and has more than 19 years of law enforcement experience, including with the Utah Department of Corrections, Utah Adult Probation and Parole and West Valley City Police Department, as well as TVPD.

Throughout his career, Det. Landolfi has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership and a commitment to going above and beyond the call of duty. While working with Adult Probation and Parole, he helped establish a

task force that successfully reduced recidivism; the program continues today with an 80 percent success rate. He has served as a field training officer, property crimes detective and public order team member.

Det. Landolfi was recently nominated for Employee of the Month by his co-worker, Det. Sullivan, who highlighted his overall outstanding service at Taylorsville High School. Additionally, during November and December, Det. Landolfi coordinated with several businesses to provide meals, gifts and Christmas trees to numerous families in need whose students attend Taylorsville High School.

“Det. Landolfi is a true role model for our police department and our school community,” Det. Sullivan said. “His service reflects the highest standards of professionalism, compassion, and dedication.”

On a personal note, Det. Landolfi enjoys fixing dirt bikes, restoring automobiles and spending time with his family. Thank you, Det. Landolfi!