North Ogden Connection September 2023

Community Identity

Thank you, North Ogden residents, for giving me the opportunity to serve our community. I believe North Ogden is the most wonderful place on Earth, primarily because of the caliber of people who make their home here. I truly love my fellow North Ogdenites and the more I get to know you, the more I love you. I recently attended a family reunion for my dad’s family, and I felt a particular sense of belonging. This feeling originated from my grandmother’s philosophy of inclusion, which she concisely stated as “Where there’s heart room, there’s house room.” Despite limited resources, my grandparents reared 11 of their own children and an orphaned niece. This same grandmother was famous in the family for saying “I’d rather have two more than one less.” She always welcomed neighbors and friends, feeding all who crossed the threshold of her home, her invitation being, “Are you staying for dinner, or do you see what we’re having and wouldn’t care for any?”

This sense of belonging permeates the identity of our family through the generations. Because of this shared identity, our many diverse family members continue to love, serve, and show up for each other.

CONNECTIONPUBLISHING

As I thought about what created this sense of belonging, I identified certain attitudes necessary for it to flourish. Each is an invitation to expand our hearts. I believe that we can live in peace and harmony with one another as we adopt the philosophy “Where there’s heart room, there’s community room.”

As members of the North Ogden Community, we:

• Create and share space with one another—physically, mentally, and emotionally.

• Serve each other with our strengths and compensate for each other’s weaknesses.

North Ogden Connection is published monthly by Connection Publishing© www.connectionpublishing.com

Questions or Comments?

Ryan Spelts | ryan@connectionpub.com | 801-624-9652

Advertising

Diane Liberator | diane@connectionpublishing.com | 801-814-3040

• We honor the past, but we have the courage to try new ideas and establish new traditions.

• Seek the good of the whole over self-interest, valuing life over lifestyle.

• Contribute our resources, both creative and material, to help others.

• Ask for and accept help when needed.

• Live by universal principles:

 faith in a Higher Power and in each other

 integrity

 self-reliance with generosity

 recognition of human dignity

 wise management and investment of resources

 gratitude and abundance

 disagreement without contention

As I consider these attributes, I am aware of my own strengths and deficiencies. I am grateful to be a part of a community that values connection, which is the lifeblood of any thriving society. The connection has blessed me and my family, as I hope it has blessed you and yours. As we become One North Ogden, we can lead the way to a stronger community, state, nation, and world. Councilmember Charlotte Ekstrom

CONNECT WITH US! We love hearing from you!

www.northogdenconnection.com

@northogdenconnectionutah

Disclaimer: The paid advertisements contained within the North Ogden Connection magazine are not endorsed or recommended by Connection Publishing or North Ogden City. Therefore, neither party may be held liable for the business practices of these companies. The City is also not responsible for any content in the magazines except for that which they directly submit for print.

northogdenconnection.com

I am grateful to be a part of a community that values connection, which is the lifeblood of any thriving society.

Publishers

Ryan Spelts

Melissa Spelts

Senior Magazine Designer

Robert Dodd

Sales & Operations Manager

Ann Park

Editor

Cindy Jones

Proofreaders

Nathaniel Loomis

Katie Jane Park

Writers

Bill Cobabe

Kendal Rae Jensen

Erinne Jones

Sabrina Lee

Nathaniel Loomis

Tiffany McLelland

Annette Mifflin

Hailey Minton

Marliss Scott

Melissa Spelts

Abraham Tinklepaugh

Digital Media Manager

Berlie Joy Acosido

Designers

Sarah Bodiker

Cindy Jones

Hyrum Rappleye

Crystal Rappleye

Photographers

Dawn Paul

Melissa Spelts

Sales

Danielle Arana

Kendal Rae Jensen

Diane Liberator

September Guest Contributors in order of appearance

Council Member Charlotte Ekstrom

Katie Gerard

Community Influencer Anna Bravard

City of North Ogden

Our City Council at Work

The City Council held its regular business meeting on xx, 2023. Here are some of the significant actions taken at the meeting:

• Presentation by Kyle Hunter about installing a Disc Golf course in North Ogden.

• Presentation by Weber CTC about putting up banners to support suicide prevention.

• Request for $1000 donation to support Weber FFA Junior Livestock Program.

• Presentation from Urban and Main Consulting.

• Approval was given to defer sidewalk widening improvements for the frontage of 2251 and 2284 North Washington Blvd.

• Development Agreement was approved for the property at 1651 North Washington Blvd.

• Ordinance was passed to update Fire Code.

• An agreement was approved for a contract with TecServ for Computer Services.

• Ordinance 15-2023 to amend the General Plan to permit manufacturing uses within the South Town Neighborhood near approximately 1651 North and 1659 North Washington Boulevard was passed unanimously.

• Swearing in and acceptance of the new City Recorder, Rian Santoro.

• Ordinance 16-2023 to update Title 11, Section 10 Article B, Manufacturing Zone M1 to permit Storage Units as permitted use was passed unanimously.

• Lynne Bexell provided the report on the Cherry Days Celebration and those who served on the Cherry Days Committee were recognized for all their hard work and presented with an award and gift basket.

• A discussion was held regarding the best use of RDA Funds to the benefit of the RDA Area.

• The City Attorney/Manager provided an update on the Spring 2023 flood damages and repairs.

• Several public comments were received regarding the RDA funds.

• The Council decided to move forward on the location of the disc golf park. It was decided that it will be located near the Equestrian Park.

BE A PART OF MEETINGS

City Council meetings held the second and fourth Tuesday of every month, starting at 6 p.m. Work sessions are held as needed on the first Tuesdays of each month at 6 p.m. Visit northogdencity.com/meetings for changes.

Public Safety Building–Coming Together, Brick by Brick

The exterior brick is completed around the perimeter of the building and the roof systems should be dried in and 80% complete, making the inside more manageable to work in when a storm rolls through on a whim. The parking lot waterways, curb, and gutter are starting to develop in preparation for asphalt before it gets too cold. We’ll be seeing cooler temps before too long!

Employee Spotlight Casey Hunsaker

BY KATIE GERARD

Casey joined the North Ogden City family in 2014 when he was hired to work for Public Works, specifically in the streets department as a Utility Worker One. Casey continually wants to grow and is always doing what he can to improve his skills, keep up with ever-changing regulations, and build strong working relationships with everyone who has the privilege of working alongside him. Casey fulfilled all the requirements needed to move to a Utility Worker Two, and at that time was also promoted to street lead. In 2020, he added “emergency manager” to his title and quickly started completing the necessary certifications needed for emergency planning. He is responsible for maintaining street signs throughout the community, maintaining roads, and evaluating the city’s mapping and emergency plans. His role was significant when our city experienced flooding earlier this year and he helped prevent homes from being damaged and kept the streets clear of debris.

Learning new software is never easy, but Casey became proficient in the new GIS (Geographic Information System), making this the work-related accomplishment he’s most proud of. We’re grateful for his dedication and passion for learning.

Casey is one of the most sincere and honest people you’ll ever meet. He does everything with intention and a clear goal that he’s working towards. He’s a prankster in the office, a devoted husband and father, and a genuinely good person. He enjoys spending time with his wife and three girls, working in their yard. He says the best thing about working in North Ogden City is the feeling of family. “We often spend more time together than with our families, and it’s good to know that we have each other’s backs.”

We’ve got your back Casey and appreciate all you do!

Guardians of North Shore Aquatic Center

Crucial

Role of Lifeguards & Staff

Did you know that the North Shore aquatics center employs around 100 part-time seasonal staff members each year, with about half of them returning from the previous year, and out of these 100 employees, only 65 are certified (ARC) American Red Cross Lifeguards?

To become certified as an ARC Lifeguard each member must attend a 30–40-hour course and pass three tests with a minimum score of 80 percent.

North Shore requires that our staff stay up to date on all our training; each Friday morning North Shore holds in-service training for two hours and our staff is required to attend a minimum of two training sessions per month (four hours). We train on everything from our EAP (Emergency Action Plan) to customer service. We pride ourselves on being “Rescue Ready”. Just this year, we have put our skills to the test with over 50 water rescues, countless first aids that range from scraped knees to insect stings, and even a couple that required more advanced medical care.

Many people wonder why the Lifeguards never smile while sitting on their chairs. Fun fact: North Shore lifeguards take their job very seriously and guard with their whistles in their mouths, legs never crossed, and they are always searching their assigned zones.

Next time you come and visit us, take a quick look at the staff's whistle lanyards and the colored beads, this will tell you a lot about this employee, their certifications, and accomplishments.

+ White - Years of service (3,5,7 etc.)

+ Black - Exceeds expectations.

+ Green - Patron Recognition

+ Red - Accident Prevention/Lifesaving.

+ Dark Blue - Aide or Instructor

+ Light Blue - Employee of the Week

+ Pink - Leadership/Management Training

+ Orange - Certified Water Safety Instructor

+ Yellow - Certified Lifeguard Instructor

+ Purple - Worked on a Major EAP (Emergency Action Plan)

We are proud of the North Shore Team and want to thank them for another successful year!

National Night Out Against Crime

On August 1, 2023, North Ogden Police department had their National Night Out Event! This event consisted of multiple agencies coming together to have a good night with the North Ogden Community. There were free hotdogs and hamburgers for everyone as well as plenty of toys, treats, and give-a-ways for everyone!

We just want to say thank you to CSI, 911 Dispatch, Weber County Sheriff, Weber County Search and Rescue, Weber FOP, AirMed, Communities that Care, Childrens Justice Center, Strike Force and Gangs, and Zeppes for serving some yummy Italian ice for everyone!

Thank you to everyone that showed up! We can only hope that everyone had a great time! Hopefully we will see you all next year!

Photos Courtesy of Tactical Nacho Media

City Information

Blue Garbage Cans

The blue garbage cans are used as overflow garbage cans and are picked up every other week. Residents can utilize the recycling dumpsters located at approximately 346 E. Pleasant View Dr. (old Public Works shop). These dumpsters are for recyclables only (i.e., cardboard, plastics 1 & 2, etc.). Please do not abuse or misuse these dumpsters. Recently, there have been items left (mattresses, garbage, toilets, etc.) in the recycling dumpsters. If you need to dispose of similar items, please take them to the Weber County Transfer Station, 867 Wilson Lane, Ogden.

Flood Zones

Questions regarding flood zones should be directed to Eric Casperson, City Engineer, at 801-782-7211. FEMA flood maps are available for your review at the city offices. We also have elevation certificates.

Questions, Comments, Accolades?

City Directory

MAYOR

Neal Berube: 801-686-0688, nberube@nogden.org

COUNCIL MEMBERS

Phillip Swanson: 801-940-2111, pswanson@nogden.org

Charlotte Ekstrom: 801-920-6987, cekstrom@nogden.org

Blake Cevering: 801-549-8202, bcevering@nogden.org

Ryan Barker: 801-814-4306, rbarker@nogden.org

Jay D. Dalpias: 385-405-6061, jddalpias@nogden.org

CITY OFFICES AND CONTACTS

City Hall: 801-782-7211

Planning: 801-737-9841

Scott Hess planning@nogden.org

City Recorder: 801-737-9830

Rian Santoro

Human Resources Manager: 801-737-9835

Katie Gerard-Nelson kgerard@nogden.org

Building Official: 801-737-9031

Nate Davis ndavis@nogden.org

Police: Business 801-782-7219

Non-Emergency Dispatch 801-395-8221

Emergency 911

Chief Dirk Quinney dquinney@nogden.org

Lieutenant Jeremy Hindes jhindes@nogden.org

Public Works: 801-782-8111

David Espinoza despinoza@nogden.org

Parks & Recreation: 801-737-0587

Becca Godfrey bgodfrey@nogden.org

Justin Rasmussen jrasmussen@nogden.org

City Manager/City Attorney: 801-737-9846

Jon Call jcall@nogden.org

Senior Center: 801-782-6211 Zella Richards

Home Hazard Hunt

CHECK YOUR HOME AND PROTECT YOUR FAMILY FROM HAZARDS BEFORE THEY BECOME AN EMERGENCY

GENERAL HOME HAZARDS

‰ Have emergency numbers next to every phone.

‰ Install smoke detectors on every floor and inside or near every bedroom. Test monthly.

‰ Install carbon monoxide (CO) detectors on every floor. Test monthly.

‰ Replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors every six months.

‰ Make sure dangerous products and cleaners are labeled and stored separately from food, beverages and medicine.

‰ Secure rugs and carpets to the stairs or remove them.

‰ Be sure stairways, porches, and walkways are lit.

‰ Be sure house number is clearly visible from the street, day and night.

‰ Make sure automatic garage door opener has an auto-reverse feature to prevent injuries.

EARTHQUAKE HAZARDS

‰ Secure entertainment centers, cabinets, book cases, refrigerators, freezers, free standing flat screen TV’s, and tall bookshelves to wall studs with “L” shaped brackets or furniture safety straps.

‰ Secure items on shelves to prevent toppling.

‰ Use earthquake picture wall hangers for large, heavy, hanging pictures.

‰ Remove objects from above beds.

‰ Place heavier items on lower shelves and lighter items above.

‰ Secure food storage, glass canning jars, books, paint, cleaning supplies, etc. with rope, boards or other bracing in front of shelves to prevent falling.

‰ Install cupboard locks to prevent doors from swinging open and contents falling out.

‰ If necessary, consult a trusted contractor regarding structural reinforcement.

FIRE HAZARDS

‰ Keep fire extinguishers in or near utility room, kitchen, laundry room, garage, and any other room that contains a major heat source. Know how to operate properly.

‰ Have all HVAC systems, flue pipes, vents, and chimneys inspected and cleaned yearly.

‰ Keep curtains, potholders or other combustibles away from cooking ranges or other heat sources.

‰ Keep the stove, oven, and broiler clean of grease.

‰ Only store fuels like gasoline, kerosene, and propane in an out building away from the home.

Make a Plan Get a Kit Be Informed Get Involved

For more preparedness information: BeReady.Utah.gov

Local businesses this event is for you!! This is a GREAT place to market your business. Decorate a trunk and provide a Halloween treat for 2,500-3,000 adorable trick-or-treaters! There will be around 5,000 in attendance counting parents.

You must register by September 13th; there is limited space so don’t hesitate.

To register for a trunk please email Morgan Sutherland, morgansutherland6@gmail.com or call her at 801-644-7538.

A big thanks to Jared Hadley Real Estate for sponsoring this event!

SCHOOLS

Due to limited space, school sporting events will no longer be listed below.

WEBER HIGH

Sep 4-9: Homecoming Week

Sep 9: Homecoming Dance 8 p.m.

Sep 16: Class of '83 Reunion 3 - 11 p.m.

Sep 23: Class of '93 Reunion 3 - 11 p.m.

Sep 27: Parent Teacher Conf 1 - 6 p.m.

NORTH OGDEN JR HIGH

Sep 11-15: Spirit Week

Sep 22: Picture Day

ORION JR HIGH

Sep 5: Hearing Screeningfor 7th Grade

Sep 27: Parent Teacher Conf 1 - 6 p.m.

MARIA MONTESSORI ACADEMY

Sep 5-9: National Suicide

Prevention Week

Sep 6-8: Jr. High Exploration Camp

Sep 6: Emergency Drill: Shelter in Place

Sep 15: UE Freedom Lights

Festival Fieldtrip

Sep 30: MMA 5K Fundraiser

VENTURE HIGH

Sep 8: HS Opening Camp

Sep 23: Homecoming Dance 7 p.m.

Sep 25: No School Professional Day

Sep 27: HS Fall Choir Concert 6 p.m.

FUN THINGS TO DO

Thursdays: Join North Ogden Community Band For more info, email jepsenl2665@gmail.com 7 p.m.

Jazz Ensemble 8:30 p.m.

Sep 1: First Friday Art Stroll FREE Downtown Ogden 6 - 9 p.m.

Sep 1-30: Exhibit: Fall into Florals

The Eccles Art Center Mon-Fri 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sat 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Sep 2-3: Adventure Van Expo Golden Spike Expo Center 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Sep 2, 9: Farmers Market Historic 25th Street 8 a.m. - 1 p.m..

Sep 6, 25: Ogden Twilight Concert Ogden Amphitheater 5 p.m.

Sep 7: Macbeth Auditions www. BroadwayOnTheSide.org 5:30 p.m.

Sep 8: End of Summer Community Band Concert FREE Barker Park

Amphitheater 6:30 p.m.

Sep 8-9: Brigham City Peach Days

Sep 16, 23, 30: Fall Market Historic 25th Street 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Sep 16: Harvest Moon Celebration

FREE Historic 25th Street 12 - 8 p.m.

Sep 23: Sondheim FREE www.

BroadwayOnTheSide.org 2 p.m. (other preformances run Sep 21-Oct 7, $5-15)

WEBER

475 E 2600 N • North Ogden • 801-337-2650

WEEKLY

Mon: Tai Chi 10:30 a.m.

Tues: Mindfulness, Meditation 10:30 a.m.

Thurs: Discovery Time 10:30 & 11:30 a.m.

ACTIVITIES

RENEW IT

SENIOR CENTER

Lunch Mon.-Fri. 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Mondays Ceramics 8:30 a.m.

Beginner Line Dance 9 a.m.

Intermediate Line Dancing 10 a.m.

Tap Dance Class 1 p.m.

Tuesdays

Billiards 9 a.m.

Art 9:30 a.m.

Intermediate Line Dancing 10 a.m.

Beginner's Tap 1:30 p.m.

Wednesdays

Wood Carving/ Billiards/ Bridge 9 a.m.

Intermediate Line Dancing 10 p.m.

Games/Beginner line dancing 12:30 p.m.

Tai Chi 2 p.m.

Zumba 3:15 p.m.

Thursdays

Billiards / Tap Dancing 1 p.m.

Dinner 5 p.m.

Fridays Ceramics 8:30 a.m.

Bridge 9 a.m.

Yoga 10 a.m.

Sep 7: N. Ogden K-9 Police 5:30 p.m.

Sep 11: Hair Cut $5 10 a.m.

Sep 11: Second Generation Band 11 a.m.

Sep 14: Brady Liddel Bagpipes 5:30 p.m.

Sep 16: Gary Romer Dance 7 p.m.

Sep 18: AARP Driving Class 10 a.m.

Sep 21: Health Fair Flu Shots 3 - 5 p.m.

Sep 28: Bingo 5:30 p.m.

All library events

are free EVENTS

Sep 5: Craft Class: String Art 7 p.m.

Sep 12: Weber Reads: Book Discussion

A Snake Falls to Earth by Darcie Little Badger 7 p.m.

Sep 23: Mario Cart Tournament 1 p.m.

Sep 28: Art Class: Zentangle Drawing 7 p.m.

Come

COMMUNITY NFLUENCERS

The word "influencer" brings up a certain imagery these days. It tends to be of the trendy, fashionable sort-people with a large social media following with the ability to persuade their niche audiences to purchase products or simply click a like or follow button.

But in the big picture, no one has as much impact on the quality of our lives as the people in our immediate communities. We don’t need TikTok or Instagram to benefit from the positive messages and assistance of our friends and neighbors, local leaders, volunteers and business owners. This year’s list of Community Influencers, the people actively making a positive impact on the places we live and work through their passions and common goals, is no exception.

THE NOMINEES

Community Nominated Influencers for 2023

Gary Attebery Do-Good Today

Anna Bravard Advanced Electrolysis

Peggy Barker Barker Park Committee

Tim Billings Red White and Boom Event

Blake Cevering Barker Park Committee

Dr. Kendell Coburn Bountiful Internal Medicine

Kirk Chugg The Gentleman’s Project Podcast

Kurtis Fredericks Project Illumination

Norah Gadd Baron Clearfield Unofficial Facebook Page

Whitney Hidalgo Inspire Dance Studio

Suzanne Kemp Strike Boxing

Hali Larsen Smarty Pants Academy

We hope you enjoy meeting some of the people who were nominated for this year’s list, and extend thanks to everyone who took a few minutes to send in nominations. We encourage you to look for the influencers in your neighborhood, and thank them for playing an active role in shaping their community

Kenneth Naegle PARC

Judy Nixon Syracuse Arts Academy

Stephanie O’Brien Radiate Nutrition

Dale Pfister Syracuse Arts Academy

Grant Protzman Barker Park Committee

Steve Reich R Marketing

Teya Ridenour Tr.ue Beauty

Preston Creed Strike Boxing

Colleen Thurgood Lady Lions Service and Social Club

Major Kit Workman Utah Military Academy

Lori Russon Worthington Russon Mortuary

Amber Wykstra Ovation Homes

–The Connection Publishing Team

Photos by Dawn Paul & Melissa Spelts

COMMUNITY NFLUENCERS

By Abraham Tinklepaugh

Devotion to family and community are what drive Pleasant View mother-of-six, and expert business innovator, Hali Larsen.

While searching for a school for her children, Larsen decided to sell her furniture and design business, and the Smarty Pants Academy began. Its students have ranked in the top 10% after they leave for the last 13 years

Larsen is a self-starting 20-year success story who’s founded more than six different companies.

She built the Smarty Pants Academy around her mother’s educational practices, a retired Charter School principal with a Special Education endorsement. “She’s been my mentor for fifteen years,” Larsen said.

“Teaching is a lot like starting a business; you can build on fundamental skills just like in business. Scope and sequence are the same, they’re just applied differently. It’s not what we teach, it’s how,” Larsen said.

What you may not know about the highly qualified teachers you’ll find at Smarty Pants is the exorbitant amount of time and care hitting the needs of each

Smarty Pants Academy

Hali Larsen

student requires. Which is also why Smarty Pants staffs a Student Success Specialist to address student social, emotional, and sensory needs. Because, as Larsen says, education is an intricate process.

Seeing an unanswered need to provide extracurricular activities for underprivileged students in our area, Larsen says living in such a tight-knit community of people willing to help makes her want to find more ways to give back.

In partnership with Kristy Pack of Pack Tax and board members that include Heather Woodland of the The Barn Golf Course, Jared Hadley Real Estate, and Weber High school teacher and inspirational speaker, Amber Hodges, Hali has launched The Pledge Jar, a nonprofit whose goal is to bridge that gap by providing children with access to activities like dance and soccer through business partnerships in our community.

“An

mind

a pillar of our community.”

COMMUNITY NFLUENCERS Advanced Electrolysis & Medspa

By Cindy Jones

Having worked in the beauty industry for nearly a decade, Anna Bravard believes that the focus too often becomes how much work someone can get done to be transformed into “the ideal beauty.” However Anna believes that everyone is beautiful, no matter what. She has created a business that centers around helping people to appreciate their unique beauty and becoming comfortable in their own skin.

For years, Anna struggled to find an answer to her own unwanted hair with little success, and found that it affected her selfconfidence. She was introduced to electrolysis and finally experienced the relief she was looking for, along with a desire to help other women like herself.

“What women don’t realize is that having hair on our faces is normal, we are all mammals! It’s a very common problem.”

Anna’s business, Advanced Electrolysis & MedSpa, offers a wide variety of beauty and medical treatments such as hair removal, facials, advanced skin treatments, cosmetic and medical treatments, body sculpting, and women’s intimate health procedures. With each new client at Advanced Electrolysis, a

Anna Bravard

unique, result-driven plan is created around the client’s specific needs. Anna and her staff work carefully to find avenues within the client’s budget to help them achieve both inner and outer beauty.

Anna says she has loved watching the transformation of her clients becoming more confident through each treatment, growing selfconfidence, and stepping into bigger roles in their lives.

“When our lives get harder, we wear it on our faces and on our skin. Sometimes we need help to release that and allow our natural beauty to shine.”

Advanced Electrolysis & MedSpa is Northern Utah’s ultimate service for permanent hair removal, facials, advanced skin treatments, cosmetic and medical treatments, body sculpting, and women’s intimate health and wellness treatments located in North Ogden, Utah. It is the only hair removal clinic in Utah with the ability to offer combination treatments of laser and electrolysis, utilizing the most up-todate procedures available. Call today to schedule a free consultation to find treatments as unique as you!

COMMUNITY NFLUENCERS

By Abraham Tinklepaugh

Amber Wykstra has been the Marketing Manager at Ovation Homes since 2019, and a driving force in the housing industry for more than 25 years. Amber creates unique ways for home buyers to realize their dreams, and she’s an integral part of the Ovation Homes Executive Team.

For more than 20 years, Ovation Homes has been creating communities focused on adults, 55 and older, with active lifestyles. Among their happiest clients are serious buyers who want the convenience of one-level living without compromising the comfort of quality space. “We want our products to be relevant. My personal focus is studying the real-estate and new-construction markets in order to understand how to improve the communities we live in,” Wykstra said. Ovation Homes customers love choosing from an enticing selection of design elements to match their taste and lifestyle. According to Wykstra, “giving buyers the opportunity to personalize their new home provides an immediate connection to the build process. This sets Ovation apart from other production builders. At every opportunity, Ovation focuses on connecting customers with their best

Ovation Homes Utah

Amber Wykstra

life experience. “We don’t limit customers to specific packages, and we absolutely strive to maintain a variety of the highest quality materials.” Ovation loves to catch empty nesters as early as age 45 transitioning to life with different needs. They offer ideal living space for those seeking freedom to age gracefully in a brand new, low-maintenance home. “Our needs change as we age,” Wykstra said. “Some of our clients have mobility issues and need solutions such as roll-in showers, wide hallways and no more stairs. We are the only home builder who offers these features consistently.” Ovation builds homes with confidence, care, and attentiveness—the same way they build relationships with customers. Results, so far? Stronger communities, neighborhoods, and friendships. “We’re different because we personalize designs without sacrificing the integrity of the overall build, and we’re constantly adapting our preferred plans based on customer feedback.”

our clients who create the communities!

By Ann Park

Ryan started Connection

Publishing in 2016 with the support from his wife Melissa. Launching with a single magazine and a goal of creating “connection” in the community. As the first publication date approached and he had spent all his time selling ads, he quickly enrolled his wife Melissa to help generate articles, recipes and other content.

Now in 2023, Connection Media Co. has grown to include five print magazines and a full range of digital marketing products, as well as branding and marketing education. Ryan wrote The Get Attention Marketing Handbook that he uses as the curriculum for his courses. He recently partnered with Ogden Technical CollegeCustom Fit to offer marketing training to business owners. Our team now includes seven employees and fifteen contractors, who sell advertising, create designs, manage the office, and support the company. “No matter how much we grow, our goal is still the same, to create connection.”

Ryan supports the community by building up other businesses. “I look up to small business owners like sports fans look up to their favorite athletes,” Ryan says. “There is something special about someone who wants to build

something, often something from nothing.”

Ryan has always loved helping others learn. “In college, I was an education major. But I didn’t like the pay scale, so I decided not to pursue that career.” Instead, Ryan ended up in sales, and quickly became a manager, training others to improve their sales skills.

He still loves teaching and is an excellent communicator. One of his gifts is explaining things so people can easily understand. “I want to be super clear and honest in all my communication. That’s the core of everything I do.”

His goal is to share his skills in a way that helps the local business community grow. “I want to them do well, to succeed, to be better than they were. I own a small business myself and I teach my best skills in marketing and sales with an emphasis on my favorite people, small business owners. As we help each other, we can grow together.”

innovative and creative, with a desire to help the local business community grow.

Utah Military Academy

By Bill Cobabe

He has a passion for teaching and mentoring youth.

Nearly fifty years in the military provides Major Workman with an immense background of experience, education, and expertise that is unmatched. After spending nearly two decades as a Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) instructor, he recognized that there was something missing. He wanted to find a way to connect with more cadets and help more young people achieve their potential. The Utah Military Academy was established in 2014 to accomplish those missions.

“My greatest moments are when former cadets return and share their successes,” he reports. Former students find success in the military and out, in

college and technical or vocational schools, and in every aspect of life. He loves seeing the light come on in the cadets’ eyes when they start to realize their potential and accomplish things that seemed impossible.

The Academy is neither a reform school nor a funnel to the military. Only about 35% of cadets at the Academy go on to join the military. Rather, the Academy is a place for young people to experience education as they find their own paths forward. The school offers programs for those interested in music, art, computers, flying, athletics/team sports, medical fields, and many others. The Academy has also established relationships with Weber State, OTEC and DATC to help provide cadets with additional resources and opportunities. Cadets have found success with service academies, and Ivy League schools, along with opportunities for direct admission and scholarships with several universities.

Saluting Our Service Members: Military Spotlight

By The Major Brent Taylor Foundation

The Ultimate Sacrifice

By Sabrina Lee

When WWI broke out, Mr. and Mrs. Milton Holmes three sons enlisted. Ronald Holmes enlisted in the Navy, Dewey Holmes in the Quartermaster Corps (Army), and Raymond Holmes with the Army. Raymond was born and raised in North Ogden and attended Weber Schools. He trained as a machinist in the railroad shops in Ogden so when he enlisted in 1917, he was working as a machinist in Pocatello, Idaho. He was sent to Washington’s Camp Lewis for training and then shipped to France, serving on the front lines. Mrs. Holmes received letters, often months from when they were written, letting her know that they were in good health and roughly where they were serving. Her last letter from Raymond was dated June 14th, 1918.

In September of 1918, at around 11 o’clock in the morning, the family received notice that Raymond had been killed on the front lines in France. He was wounded at the Battle of Soissons but succumbed to those wounds on July 25th, 1918. He was initially interred in Tours, France. His brother Dewey, still serving overseas, happened to be stationed in Tours when he learned of his brother’s death. He was able to visit the hospital where Raymond was treated as well as his burial site.

The Battle of Soissons raged on the Western Front from July 18th to July 22nd, 1918. French, British, and American units fought together to cut off a main supply railway and road of the German forces. This battle was a major turning point in WWI, as German forces would be on the defensive for the remainder of the war. But it came with a cost: 345,000 men from Britain, France, and America fought, while only 225,741 survived. American casualties totaled 11,259.

Raymond was remembered as a clever baseball player, son, brother, and friend. At his father’s request, his remains were returned home in 1920. He had a massive memorial and escorted procession to the Ben Lomond Cemetery. Hundreds of people attended, and Major Charles R. Mabey, a republican candidate for Utah Governor, was the principal speaker. The American Legion

dedicated his final resting place, he received a gunned salute, and Taps was played. His original headstone has been replaced with a bronze marker, but he is still remembered by this community for his bravery every Memorial Day.

Welcome to Our New Look

To readers, the designs inside a magazine might not be obvious, and that’s precisely the idea. A good magazine design should subtly compliment and flavor the written content and photos without stealing the show. Our design team has been working on modernizing and simplifying Connection’s layout and tidying up the overall look and feel of our magazine. Our goal was to create cleaner, more readable pages for you to linger in, and subtle designs you are drawn to but not distracted by. Take a look through the pages and let us know what you think.

Table of Contents

Our Contents page is iconic of the overall redesign of the magazine. We’re using larger images with shorter, more condensed blocks of text. We also combined our Connection Team page with the current issue contributors page, both to allow for more space for our Mayor’s message and make the pages cleaner and less redundant.

Before

Fonts

B B

Other Changes

After

We created a new mini-feature design, a new history page icon and title, and we removed page headers to give your eyes more space in between design and text. Larger, thinner headlines are more modern and don’t distract from images

4 THINGS TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING A USED CAR

By: Lisa D.–Acuity

Buying a used car? Used vehicles can be significantly less expensive to purchase than new vehicles, but their history could end up becoming costly. Here are some things to look for when shopping for a used vehicle to help you find any lurking issues and feel more confident in your purchasing decision.

1. Take note of the VIN

The 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN) is typically found by looking through the vehicle’s windshield near the driverside dash. Use the VIN to look up:

o Open recalls on the vehicle (nhtsa.gov)

o The vehicle’s service and repair history (carfax.com)

o If the vehicle has been stolen (nicb.org)

o Whether or not the vehicle has been in a flood (dmv.org)

2. Ask the seller questions

o Why are you selling the car?

o What was the vehicle’s prior use? (Who drove it? Was it mostly city, highway, or country road driving?)

o What is the vehicle’s history (e.g., recalls, accidents, theft, flood)?

See if the seller’s response matches the reports you found when searching the VIN.

3. Go for a test drive

Get in the car and drive it. Do you feel comfortable and safe? Listen to how the vehicle sounds when traveling at varying speeds and stopping. Examine the vehicle’s exterior and interior. Look for

rust, dents, cracks, signs of water damage, funky smells, and tire quality. Check to see if everything works, including the doors, trunk, lights, windshield wipers, A/C and heater, turn signals, locks, audio system, mirror and seat adjustments, and automatic safety features.

4. Check the vehicle’s price. Look up the vehicle's value on websites such as TrueCar.com, kbb.com, Edmunds. com, or cars.com. If you have concerns with the vehicle, ask a mechanic to do an inspection and estimate how much it would cost to fix any issues. Consider the cost of tax, title, registration, insurance, and any warranty in the price of the car as well.

Buying a car can be stressful. Follow these tips before purchasing a used vehicle to help save headaches and money down the road.

Quick CRAVEABLE Comfort FOOD

RECIPE AND PHOTOS BY MELISSA SPELTS

Every now and then you just need a quick and delicious way to indulge!

Bachelor’s Delight

This is a recipe that has been passed down for a couple generations and it brings back fond memories of family gatherings at grandma and grandpa Frehner’s house. This is so easy to make, fills up tummies and is delicious. Hope your family enjoys it as much as our family does.

1 bag Fritos

Chili (2 cans chili, 1 can black beans, 1 can diced tomatoes with Jalapeños)

4 cups shredded cheese

6 cups chopped lettuce

1 can diced olives

1 tomato, chopped

1 bunch radishes, chopped

1 container ketchup or salsa

A dollop of sour cream on top

Spread Fritos on a plate and layer with chili, cheese, and vegetables. Top with sour cream, salsa or ketchup and enjoy!

Kitchen Sink Cookies

When I saw these I had to try them. The recipe was found all over Pinterest. Some call it Kitchen Sink Cookes, or Pretzel Cookies, or Rockstar Cookies. Whatever you call them, know that they are super yummy and a must try. To be honest it felt a little weird putting potato chips in my cookie dough. After trying them I learned that those different combinations created a good balance of salty and sweet and soft and crunchy. My children loved them. I loved the toffee in the cookies as well. Great recipe. Best when eaten fresh.

1 cup butter, softened

1 ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

2 cups flour

¾ cup light brown sugar

½ cup white sugar

1 tsp. baking soda

2 tsp. vanilla extract

1 large egg

1 cup toffee bits

1 cup Ruffles potato chips, crushed

½ cup pretzels, chopped

1 tsp. salt

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Combine flour, baking soda, salt, and brown and white sugars in a mixing bowl. Then add your wet ingredients butter, egg and vanilla, and mix well. This is your cookie base. Then add chocolate chips, toffee, chopped up chips and pretzels. Mix in your blender until every ingredient is evenly spread throughout dough. Place cookie dough balls on a nonstick sprayed cookie sheet and bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Let cool on a cookie rack or on counter and enjoy. Perfection when eaten with a tall glass of milk.

John Watson