Name: Rachelle Walker

From: Spring Valley, Nev.

To: Vernon

On Feb. 10, 2007, Rachelle Walker, 29, and her family moved from Spring Valley, Nev., to Vernon. The family of five moved because of a job transfer, but they love the added benefits.

"We moved for my husband's job transfer," said Walker. Russell, 33, works for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saint's welfare program. He worked for a welfare ranch in Nevada, and he was asked if he wanted to transfer because Vernon's welfare ranch needed help.

"We liked the idea, so we agreed to come help," said Walker.

Aside from being a stay-at-home mom, Walker recently started giving voice lessons.

"I tried to start lessons in Nevada a few times, but it was just not happening," she said. Now, she teaches two girls about once a week, and she spends most of her time with her children.

Walker has three children, 9-year-old Alix, 6-year-old Braxton and 3-year-old Chisum. Her two oldest children go to Vernon Elementary, which she loves because it is a small school.

"The elementary school is just like the school that I went to when I was a kid," she said. She is going to be the PTA president this coming school year and is excited the school is willing to let her come help out.

Another reason the Walkers love Vernon is because they are a lot closer to their family.

"Most of our free time lately has been going to visit family that we weren't living as close to," said Walker.

Walker also likes Vernon because of the people.

"I love the people," she said. "They are so nice and wonderful."

Despite everything she loves about Vernon, she still misses a few things about Nevada.

"It was greener there," Walker said.

compiled by Jessica Durrant

If you're a newcomer or know of a newcomer who'd like to share the story of why they moved to Tooele County, please contact Sarah Miley at (435) 882-0050 or via e-mail at swest@tooeletranscript.com.