I am in West Valley City, Utah

Welcome! First, I'm going to recommend a couple of really helpful links:

http://community.myfitnesspal.com/en/discussion/1234699/logging-accurately-step-by-step-guide/p1

http://community.myfitnesspal.com/en/discussion/1080242/a-guide-to-get-you-started-on-your-path-to-sexypants/p1

The first covers accurate logging and some of the tools in MFP to help you make things easier. The second discusses caloric needs and setting goals. These are two of the most commonly-referenced threads on MFP; tons of people point to them as being sources of great info when you're starting out.

For more friends check out these threads which ended up gaining a lot of traction.

http://community.myfitnesspal.com/en/discussion/10176797/comment-here-if-you-want-more-friends#latest
http://community.myfitnesspal.com/en/discussion/10324944/hi-looking-for-friends-motivation#latest