In April, Weber County celebrated National County Government Month! This year’s theme was ForwardTogether, which is about “connecting, inspiring and leading—pillars of county government that build trust and drive towards solutions” (source: National Association of Counties).
Our employees are making a positive difference in moving ForwardTogether and we appreciate you and the care that you put into serving our community. Our State of the County celebration was about how our employees have made Weber County a place like no other to work, play, create, and grow. We also celebrated our community and the incredible accomplishments we have achieved this past year. For instance,
Peery’s Egyptian Theater turned 100 years old! In January, we celebrated this historic achievement with a concert from Ogden native Marie Osmond.
Our Clerk/Auditor Office opened a new elections ballot processing center that will further the security and efficiency of how ballots are processed during elections.
During Veteran’s Day, we celebrated County veterans who served in the Vietnam War. It was inspiring to see the comradery of so many veterans in the same room. For some, it was the first recognition of their service.
The Weber County Fair was full of family fun, including rodeos, musical events, and the demolition derby. We encourage you to take your family to the Fair this year on August 7 – 10.
These are just a few things that make us “Winning in Weber.”
Weber County Connection is published bimonthly by Connection Publishing© connectionpublishing.com
Questions or Comments?
Ryan Spelts | ryan@connectionpub.com | 801-624-9652
Advertising
Scott Jones | Scott@connectionpublishing.com | 801-628-0555
Ryan Spelts | ryan@connectionpub.com | 801-624-9652
Because of our employees’ successes, our community is growing at a very rapid rate. Our business community, especially, is growing at a rate that we haven't seen in the past hundred-plus years, probably since the railroad came to Weber County. We feel that this success is because of the work our employees do for our county, community, and state.
We encourage our community to get involved and take advantage of the many resources and opportunities available to them. You can learn more about each department and the services we provide in Weber County by visiting our website: WeberCountyUtah.gov. Our dedicated employees are available and ready to serve our citizens.
Thank you for making this year’s State of the County an unforgettable celebration!
Publishers
Ryan Spelts
Melissa Spelts
Senior Magazine Designer
Robert Dodd
Sales & Operations Manager
Ann Park
Editor
Cindy Jones
Proofreaders
Nathaniel Loomis
Writers
Bill Cobabe
Sabrina Lee
Nathaniel Loomis
Tiffany McLelland
Annette Mifflin
Marliss Scott
Melissa Spelts
Abraham Tinklepaugh
Micah Hirokawa
3 COMMISIONERS’ MESSAGE
6 COUNTY NEWS
6 Veterans-Serving our Community
7 Weber county compost facility
8 Crystal Bowl Awards
REDUCING GAS EMISSIONS
Weber County partnership with Qnergy
Highlighting outstanding local youth 18
HOME AND GARDEN FEATURE
Make the most of your home this summer 25
Martha Stewart Geddes’ long life of service 28
Digital Media Manager
Berlie Joy Acosido
Designers
Sarah Bodiker
Cindy Jones
Hyrum Rappleye
Marliss Scott
Photographers
Dawn Paul
Melissa Spelts
Sales
Scott Jones
Ryan Spelts
Guest Contributors in order of appearance
Weber County Commissioners:
Jim Harvey
Sharon Bolos
Gage Froerer
Rachel Bitton
The Weber County Veterans Advisory Committee provides recognition, resources, and benefits for County veterans.
This past year during Veterans Day, the Veterans Committee celebrated veterans from the Vietnam War. It was inspiring to see the camaraderie of so many veterans in the same room. For some, it was their first time being recognized for their service. In the past, the Veterans Committee has celebrated veterans from WWII and the Korean War.
The Veterans Committee conducts fundraising activities for veteran memorials. The All Wars Memorial Monument commemorates all veterans for their service and sacrifices to serve our country. It also represents the six armed forces of the United States –Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard. The All Wars Memorial proudly stands at the George E. Wahlen Ogden Veterans Home.
The Veterans Committee is also involved with the Veterans History Project, which tells the stories of veterans across the nation so their stories are written, heard, and remembered.
The Veterans Committee has five board members, appointed by the County Commission, and meets once a month. Recently, Jerry Ingalsbe, a Veterans Committee board member and dear friend, passed away. Jerry was always kind and made everyone laugh. We’d like to honor Jerry for his service to our county and country. Jerry served in the U.S. Air Force for 25 years and retired as a Colonel. He is the third-highest decorated Security Policeman in the Air Force. During his service in Vietnam, he was awarded the Silver Star and two Bronze Stars for his valor and gallantry in action. County veterans can find tax relief information online at WeberCountyUtah.gov/Veterans. Additional resources are available through the Utah Department of Veterans and Military Affairs and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
The Weber County Compost Facility recycles green waste into compost, mulch, and woodchips. Residents can then purchase these products for discounted rates!
Compost is made of wood chips, bio-solids, and grass/ leaves. First, trees are loaded onto a grinder by a tractor and broken down into smaller branches. Eventually, wood chips are formed and screened twice to remove excess dust and particles. Wood chips are available in cocoa, black, and natural colors.
At another facility, bio-solids drain to release excess moisture. Bio-solids provide rich nutrients for plants, but there is a compost option without bio-solids.
When the compost is prepped, it “cooks” at 160°F, sits for four weeks, and is then turned so the material oxidizes.
When mixing compost into the soil, use three-part dirt to onepart compost for excellent results! Our Facility uses the highest quality materials and processes to ensure that your yard and garden look fabulous. All products are tested by the FDA before they are sold.
Check out these prices!
Premium Compost - $25 (per yard)
Leaf & Veggie Compost (no bio-solids) - $22 per yard
Yard & Garden Mulch - $22 per yard
Colored Wood chips - $33 per yard
Natural Wood chips - $22 per yard
Lower Valley Delivery - $80
Upper Valley Delivery - $90
Learn more at WeberCountyUtah.gov/Solid_Waste.
Every year, Weber County presents the Crystal Bowl Award to an employee, a business, an individual, and a veteran who has made a meaningful impact in our community. Crystal bowls can amplify and produce a pure and powerful sound that resonates for a long time. It is comparable to the generous people who volunteer their time and resources and whose actions resonate throughout our community. Their accomplishments represent the best ideas, actions, and spirit that epitomize the inspirational spirit of our county.
Please join us in congratulating each of this year’s Crystal Bowl Award recipients!
Betty Sawyer
Community Member Making a Positive Impact
Betty Sawyer is the executive director of the Project Success Coalition and the president of the Ogden National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. Betty is an experienced community activist and social justice advocate, paving the way to end the fight for racial inequality and provide hope for future generations. Betty has championed the Utah Juneteenth, Freedom Day Festival in Utah for the past 34 years. She also led the movement to have Juneteenth recognized as a state holiday, which was passed by the legislature and signed into law by Governor Cox in 2022.
Terry Schow
Veteran Who Continues to Serve
Terry Schow is a U.S. Army veteran whose service includes the 5th and 10th Special Forces Groups, the 25th Infantry Division, and a tour of duty in Southeast Asia. Mr. Schow has been active in veterans’ affairs locally and nationally for more than thirty-five years. In 2013, he retired as the executive director of the Utah Department of Veterans Affairs. He has served in various capacities, including as the State Commander of the American Legion and Disabled American Veterans, the Chair of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Rural Health Advisory Committee, and the President of the National Association of State Directors of Veterans Affairs, among others. Currently, Mr. Schow serves as the chair of the Weber County Veterans Committee and represents Utah on the American Legion National Executive Committee.
Christopher Crockett
Outstanding County Employee
Christopher Crockett is the chief civil deputy for the Weber County Attorney’s Office. Chris has worked for the County since 2014 and leads a team that represents 40 departments within the County. He is privileged to work alongside some of the best civil attorneys in the State of Utah and considers them his dearest friends. Chris received his BA and MA in history from BYU-Hawaii and BYU and received his JD from the J. Reuben Clark College of Law at BYU. Chris’s passion is traveling—he hasn’t been everywhere, but everywhere is on his list of places to visit.
Myers Mortuary
Business Making a Positive Impact
Since 1941, Myers Mortuary & Cremation Services has had the honor of serving families in Ogden and surrounding communities such as Roy, Brigham, and Layton. Myers Mortuary’s caring and professional funeral directors assist in the planning of funeral services, burial services, memorial services, and cremation services. Myers Mortuary also offers a variety of Veterans Services for those men and women who have bravely sacrificed by serving our country. Attentive staff are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to guide and support families through all aspects of funeral service, pre-planning, and bereavement care.
AT PEERY’S EGYPTIAN THEATER IN OGDEN
May 6th
7:30PM
ADMISSION
Stephanie Russell
The Weber County Economic Development Office has partnered with leading methane abatement solution provider Qnergy to deploy the first system in Utah that converts landfill gas emissions into electricity and heat.
“The County is thrilled to work with Ogden-based Qnergy on this project,” said Stephanie Russell, Weber County’s economic development director. “Our goal is to expand these efforts to the other landfills in the county and throughout the state.”
A pilot program launched in September 2023 at a closed Weber County landfill, located on the outskirts of Fort Buenaventura Park. During the pilot program, Qnergy was harvesting about 5% of the methane from the closed landfill. Since then, the pilot program has bloomed and far exceeded expectations. Now, 100% of methane emissions are being harvested, and the County is urging
“The County is thrilled to work with Ogden-based Qnergy on this project... Our goal is to expand these efforts to the other landfills in the county and throughout the state.”
cities to get on board to expand to other closed landfills across the County. “When we take advantage of local solutions for global problems, then we have the opportunity to move the needle right here, rather than waiting for someone else to do it,” said Lisa Roskelley, outreach director for Congressman Blake Moore’s Office. “And that’s what Weber County is doing right here.”
–Stephanie Russell
With a proven track record in the oil and gas industry, Qnergy’s PowerGen is a Free Piston Stirling Engine generator that converts methane from any source, including landfills, into utility-grade electricity.
The PowerGen is ideal for remote locations because it has no rotating parts and promises 100% methane destruction with minimal maintenance requirements.
Of the more than 55 landfills in Utah, Weber County has two that are closed, but are still emitting methane. The partnership was formed as a pilot project for transforming otherwise vented methane into usable electricity. When the pilot project concludes in the coming months, Qnergy’s PowerGen has the potential to reduce methane emissions at tens of thousands of closed landfills.
“This project is important for us both globally and locally,” said Ory Zik, Qnergy’s CEO. “Globally because methane is such a pollutant, but there is no technology that can transport methane at this scale to closed landfills into this fuel energy, and now we get to prove that our technology is capable of doing it. And locally, we are delighted to be part of this community and have the installation about a mile from our facility.”
• Veneers
• Oral Surgery
• Pediatric Care
• Dental Implants
• Preventative Care
• Teeth Whitening
• Endodontic Care
• Restorative Care
• Wisdom Teeth Removal
801.737.4650
rockymtdental.com
2703 N 1600 W Farr West
“I feel like Dr. Wells works very carefully, and does a good job. I trust him with dental care for myself and my family.”
~ Current Patient Review
“We are so grateful to Dr. Wells and his staff. They are polite and welcoming and so willing to help in any way they can. They have made our high anxiety visits much more relaxing and calm. Thank you!”
~ Facebook Reviewer
Thanks for voting me your Favorite Dentist in Weber County!
FREEMONT HIGH
May 1: Band Concert 7 p.m.
May 7: Legacy Concert 7 p.m.
May 8: Dance Co. Auditions 3 p.m.
May 7: Orchestra Concert 7 p.m.
May 9: Handbell Concert 7 p.m.
May 10: Senior Cotillion 8 p.m.
May 13-17: Senior Week
May 14: Choir Concert 7 p.m.
May 17: Theatre Class Play 6 p.m.
May 20: Graduation WSU
Dee Events Center 5 p.m.
VENTURE HIGH
May 7: Band Concert 7 p.m.
May 10: Spring Choir Concert 7 p.m.
May 17: Senior vs. Teachers
Kickball 3:30 p.m.
May 22: Senior Passage No Class
May 24: MESStival 4–6 p.m.
May 27: No School Memorial Day
May 30: Graduation 7 p.m.
Thursdays: North Ogden Community Band Rehearsals Come join us. Special need for procussionist. For more info, email jepsenl2665@gmail.com
Public Safety Building, Court Rm. 7 p.m.
May 1-Jun 29: Birdhouse Exhibit Ogden Nature Center 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
May 2: GOAL Community Hike Birdsong via 22nd St. Trailhead, Ogden 6–8 p.m.
May 2, 11, 16, 18, 23: Weber Basin Free Landscape Classes Register at weberbasin.gov
May 3: First Friday Art Stroll Downtown Ogden 6–9 p.m.
May 3: Open Studio Night! The Monarch, 455 25th Street 6–9 p.m.
May 4: Cinco De Mayo Event Ogden Amphitheater 11 a.m.
May 6: Stacey Romney Dahlberg Peery’s Egyptian Theater 7:30 p.m.
May 8: Jazz at the Station Union Station, Ogden 7 p.m.
May 10-12: Acorn Antiques & Vintage Golden Spike Event Center
May 11-12, 18-19, 25-27: Utah RenFest utahrenfest.com 10 a.m.–7 p.m.
May 11: OAS Star Party White Rock Bay, Antelope Island 6–10 p.m.
May 16, 23, 30: Food Trucks North Ogden Park 2705 N. 550 E. 5–8 p.m.
May 17-19: Ogden Home Show Golden Spike Event Center
May 20: Kurt Bestor w/ Syracuse Symphony Orchestra syracuseutaharts.org 7 p.m.
May 22, 29 & Jun 5, 12, 19, 26: Roy Community Farmers Market 4059 S. 1900 W. 5–8 p.m.
May 25 & Jun 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Ogden Farmers Market Historic 25th Street 8 a.m.–1 p.m.
Jun 6: GOAL Community Hike Maylans First Outlook via 29th St. Trailhead, Ogden 6–8 p.m.
Jun 7: Car Show Historic 25th St. Downtown Ogden 5–9 p.m.
Jun 7: First Friday Art Stroll Downtown Ogden 6–9 p.m.
Jun 12: Jazz at the Station Union Station, Ogden 7 p.m.
COUNTY LIBRARY – Southwest Branch
2039 W. 4000 S. • Roy • 801-337-2670
Mon: ESL Classes 6:30 p.m.
Tues: Gentle Movements 10:30 a.m.
STEAM Club 4 p.m.
Yoga for Adults 6:30 p.m.
Wed: Discovery Time 10:30 & 11:30 a.m.
Youth Game Club 4 p.m.
ESL Class 6:30 p.m.
Thurs: Citizenship Classes 7 p.m.
Sat: Tai Chi 10:30 a.m.
May 4: Super Star Wars Day 2 p.m.
May 7: Fruit Tree Care 6:30 p.m.
May 8: Adult Book Discussion
The House of Broken Angels 7 p.m.
May 11: Going NOVA 3:30 p.m.
May 16: Teens Tiny Art 6 p.m.
May 31: Tech Lab Lego Robotics 4 p.m.
Jun 3: Children Summer
Reading Kickoff 10:30 a.m.
All library events are FREE
Jun 6: Teen Summer Reading Kickoff 3 p.m.
Jun 8: Interactive Movie
Mulan (1998) 10:30 a.m.
Jun 12: Adult Book Discussion
The Librarianist 7 p.m.
Jun 19: Astronaut Camp 10:30 a.m.
Jun 20: Teens Sewing 3 p.m.
Jun 20: Murder Mystery 6:30 p.m.
Jun 28: Tech Lab Lego Robotics 4 p.m.
OGDEN ECCLES CONFERENCE CENTER/PEERY’S EGYPTIAN THEATER OgdenPET.com
May 6: Free Concert - Stacey Romney Dahlberg: The Great American Latin Songbook
June 7: Peery’s Egyptian Theater 100 Year Exhibit (open through August)
June 21: Free Performance - Walk Like an Egyptian by Kids Act Up
GOLDEN SPIKE EVENT CENTER GoldenSpikeEventCenter.com
May 1 & 15: RMBRA Barrel Jackpot
May 4-5 & 19: UQHRA Flat Track Races
May 7 & 21: Utah Youth Rodeo
May 8 & 22: TPJ Barrel Jackpot
May 10-12: Acorn Antique & Vintage Show
May 11: Hairy Horse Show
May 11: WPC Chicken
May 17-19: Ogden Spring Home Show
May 18: Miss Rodeo Ogden Horsemanship
May 18: District 2 Jackpot
May 18: May Mania Demolition Derby
May 31: UQHYA Horseshoe Circuit
June 1 & 2: UQHYA Horseshoe Circuit
June 2: UQHYA Horse Show Circuit
June 5: TJP Barrel Jackpot
June 9: WPC Golden Spike Horse Trials
June 12 & 26: RMBRA Barrel Jackpot
June 16: Matched Horse Races
June 21-23: Crossroads of the West Rodeo
June 26 & 27: Livestock Show
June 29: AARP Shred Event
June 29: Junction City Roller Dolls
WEBER COUNTY ICE SHEET IceSheetWCSC.com
May 3-5: Ogden Figure Skating Club Bonspeil
Open Skate Schedule:
Monday-Saturday: 12–2 PM | Tuesday and Wednesday: 7–9 PM | Friday and Saturday: 6–8 PM
*Some days may not have available open skate times due to hockey tournaments and other events at the facility. Please check the open skate schedule at www.icesheetwcsc.com for available open skate time.
FRIDAY
21ST | 12:30 PM
Seventeen and a junior at Fremont High, Hadlee is clear and articulate about getting where she ultimately wants to be and isn’t afraid of the hard work it’ll take to get there.
Raising a goat a few years back, Hadlee spent all year getting it ready for the fair. However, “even working hard doesn’t guarantee a win,” shared Hadlee. “I worked all summer long and when I brought the goat to the fair, it ran away!” A disappointment for sure. “But my parents have a saying, “your buckle is earned in the barn and not in the show ring.” A lesson Hadlee learned the hard way.
“Agriculture is a culture,” said Hadlee. “You have to eat, breathe, and sleep what you do and have a passion for
it. It’s helped me to discover who I am as a person, and my purpose.”
Hadlee is Fremont’s FFA Vice-President, Weber County Livestock Ambassador, and a member of the High School Livestock Judging Team, something she loves. The team competes throughout Utah, choosing the best muscled animal in that class of market animals (animals sold for consumer consumption.)
Hadlee interns after school for a small animal veterinarian. She is on the honor roll and loves being outdoors, hunting, fishing, and hiking. She’s applied to several agricultural colleges, and plans to be a career livestock judge, as well as a rancher breeding show cattle and show goats. "Told ya she's a hard worker!"
In recounting his favorite (and most painful!) FFA memory, Wyatt, an 18-year-old senior at Fremont High, and three of his friends decided to do the Wild Cow Milking event at Ogden Pioneer Days. Wyatt explained, “I was supposed to hold the head, while my buddies milked the cow into a bucket. Well, they pick the meanest cows they have for this event! The cow decided to make a run for it, knocking me down into the dirt with its head. I instinctively grabbed the 20-foot rope that was attached to the cow, and it took off, pulling the rope with it. I ended up with a nasty rope-burn on my palm— all 20-feet of the rope pulled across it!” They did, however, win first place.
Even after that experience, Wyatt likes anything agricultural. He followed
BY MARLISS SCOTT
in his older sister’s footsteps and joined FFA in ninth grade. He showed hogs, and worked a summer for his cousin, a rancher in Roosevelt.
Having played football since he was eight-years-old, Wyatt played his final season this year as a Varsity right tackle. He considers himself a ‘history nerd’, wars being his favorite subject; and is enjoying his latest hobby, riding his four-wheeler on the Sahara dunes.
Wyatt works after school for an industrial sealing systems company. “My plan after high school is to work for a year or two, then do an internship for a ranch, learning everything I can,” said Wyatt. “Then one day I want to have my own operation with cattle.”
Just remember to…let go of the rope!
BY CINDY JONES
Our annual Home and Garden issue offers so many great resources, courtesy of local businesses to help you make the most of the summer around your home. Take a look at the tips we’ve gathered and be sure to flip through the advertising pages to help you set the stage for a season of home and garden bliss.
One of the easiest ways to improve your home is to paint! I’m famous for repainting my bathrooms every 2-3 years, because I want to keep those spaces feeling fresh and rejuvenating. Whether you start with a bathroom or go big with your living room or bedroom, you’ll gain a fresh new look as well as remove dirt, marks, and stains from your walls. Online tools like Behr
Color Smart or Benjamin Moore
Personal Color Viewer allow you to upload a photo of your room and add paint colors, so you can visualize how the space will look.
As the weather warms, installing a ceiling fan can help keep your home cool and comfortable while reducing energy costs. Ceiling fans are a relatively inexpensive, especially if you opt for a basic model without fancy features. They can also help circulate air and improve ventilation. Look for ENERGY STAR-certified fans
for maximum energy efficiency and savings on your utility bills.
Upgrading to a programmable thermostat is an easy and affordable way to improve your home. With programmable thermostats, you can set the temperature based on your daily routines and preferences. Your HVAC system will only run when necessary through the warmer months, and help reduce your utility bills. We have the Nest thermostat ($129-$159 Amazon. com) and it has made controlling the temperature in our home so accessible and easy, even my teen daughters can help keep the house cool and comfortable!
Giving your front door a new look can instantly boost curb appeal. In my neighborhood, I’ve seen houses with deep teal, navy and black doors that complement
the siding or brick of the homes’ exteriors—so fun and elegant! If you’re not looking to make a color change, or if your door is already in good condition, you can simply wash it down with some soap and hot water. Don’t forget to replace old hardware like handles and locks to finish and upgrade the look.
My favorite day in the spring is the day I get new bark mulch for all my flower beds and my perennial garden! Mulch neatens up your flower beds, smells amazing and helps retain moisture in the soil. Mulch also helps suppress weed growth, and who doesn’t want fewer weeds to pull? Websites like thespruce. com and gardeningknowhow.com can help you decide what kind of mulch is best for your flower beds, and the garden centers at most home improvement stores can also help provide guidance.
In 1954, two separate, familyowned companies were launched, each running out of their garage. One focusing on heating and air-conditioning and the other on electrical work. Now fast forward 80 years. Mountain Air Conditioning and Heating and Master Electrical Service have become pillars of service in our community.
As market conditions have changed and larger competitors have moved in, these two companies have decided to join forces and become one provider of all home services. Together, they will be known as Mountain Home Services and will offer heating, air conditioning, and electrical services as well as add plumbing services to their business. They will serve homeowners across the Wasatch Front and will be headquartered in Weber and Davis Counties.
These companies are known for their honesty, upfront pricing, and great local technicians who are easy to talk to and low-pressure. The merger will continue those traditions
and offer their clients access to all of their services under one roof.
The combined teams will include 125 employees. The leaders of the company have emphasized that they are the same people who have served you in the past. If you have had work performed by either company, you will receive the same treatment and quality of care as always.
Unique in the industry is upfront pricing. In surveys, statistically, the #1 concern homeowners have is the bait and switch from service providers where they say one price but increase it when they show up to do the work. Mountain Home Services has upfront pricing across all services, giving clients peace of mind.
These companies saw a need to provide services at a higher level for their clients, to serve more people, and to be more efficient. They offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee plus product warranties. They are committed to offering hometown services just like they have always done.
Transparency, quality technicians, and 100% satisfaction guarantee all from Mountain Home Services.
In business for 14 years, Nelson Insulation is a Local Utilities authorized contractor. They specialize in new and upgraded insulation.
If your home is drafty and cold in the winter or hot in the summer, new insulation might be the answer. Upgrading your insulation will keep you more comfortable and save you money on your utilities. Not to mention that great insulation will extend the life of your HVAC equipment which can save you thousands.
In addition to specializing in insulation, Nelson Insulation is a licensed contractor and they are able to finish basements, sheetrock, and paint. A finished basement is a high-value upgrade to your home, adding tremendously to its value.
Nelson Insulation is trusted in the community and they are good enough that they don’t have to do the advertising that the big companies do. They like supporting local businesses, like being in this magazine, but 90% of their business comes from referrals from satisfied customers.
By now you have heard about Roof Maxx. It is a revolutionary spray-on oil that rejuvenates your asphalt shingles, giving an extra 5, 10, or even 15 years of life to your roof. This can save you thousands over traditional roof replacement. If your roof is 12-15 years old, we would love to give you a free inspection to determine if now is a good time to apply Roof Maxx. It is also a great add-on to a home that has solar panels installed, keeping your roof in place longer saving the extra expense of $6000 having to remove, and then reinstall the panels when your roof eventually needs replacement.
Roof Maxx is the best alternative out there. It returns flexibility and life to your shingles. The product is a soy-based oil that soaks into the asphalt and reinvigorates it. That flexibility allows your shingles to continue to breathe and expand and contract to give your home the protection it needs.
We perform a free, no-obligation roof inspection, take photos, and show you what is happening on your roof. To schedule please call or visit our website.
Net metering has changed. Your solar power is now being sold back to Rocky Mountain Power for pennies on the dollar. There is too much power from peak times and it is going to waste.
This makes batteries a wise investment for homeowners because you can capture your own solar production and save it for when you need it. Currently, there is a 30% tax credit where you get a dollar-for-dollar credit on a battery that will help pay for its purchase. This is in addition to the current rebates which are the highest they have ever been from
the manufacturers and Rocky Mountain Power of up to $7000.
A battery will eliminate your power bill to nearly zero and it will give you total control of your system. These batteries give you what is called a virtual powerplant essentially creating your own grid giving you what you always wanted from your solar system…power independence.
These batteries are 40,000 charge cyle warranty and getting one comes with $0 out-of-pocket costs. Plus there are no project fees through ES Solar’s unique financing options. To learn more please call...
Floor Coverings International is a comprehensive mobile flooring business serving Weber, Davis, Morgan, Box Elder, and Cache counties. Their free in-home consultations make it convenient for customers to explore various flooring choices.
Rochelle and Emmalee Van Wagoner specialize in guiding clients toward the flooring solution that best suits their needs and lifestyle. Drawing on Rochelle’s experience as a mother of six, they offer practical advice on durable and familyfriendly flooring options.
Rochelle and Emmalee purchased a franchise from Floor Coverings International in 2021. Breaking the mold of a typical flooring company,
this dynamic duo brings a women’s touch of style and design to a predominantly male industry. What sets them apart is their mobile showroom, allowing customers to browse through thousands of flooring samples in the comfort of their homes.
Rochelle and Emmalee’s Floor Coverings International franchise offers a personalized and convenient flooring experience, combining expertise, variety, and exceptional service. As passionate business owners, they strive to transform customers’ spaces with high-quality flooring solutions that exceed expectations. Whether customers prefer LVP, laminate, sheet vinyl, tile, wood, or carpet, they can easily contact the team for assistance through a phone call or website appointment booking.
• Immunizations
• Mobile Refills
• Compression Socks
• Free Drug Disposal
• Easy Prescription Transfers
• Home Health Care Supplies
• Greeting Cards and Unique Gifts
• Rapid COVID-19, Strep, and Flu Testing
BY SABRINA LEE
Martha Stewart was born in Scotland and made the long journey to America at 16. She became a member of the Church of Latter-Day Saints in Scotland in the 1840s, and left Scotland in 1854. They arrived in New Orleans aboard The John M. Wood ship. From there, the family made its way to St. Louis in a steamboat, and eventually made it to the Latter-Day Saint camp in Kansas City, Missouri.
The voyage was not easy, and the family had already lost their father to cholera when she made the voyage in 1850. Cholera once again would take hold, and Martha lost her mother as well as her 14-year-old brother in a camp outbreak. She was now left an orphan at 16, in a new and rugged land, and seven brothers and sisters to manage. Her smaller siblings rode in the wagon to Salt Lake City, but Martha and her sisters walked barefoot along the wagon. They arrived in October of 1854. Martha found work in the homes of church leaders in Salt Lake City. Her older sister Elizabeth married William Geddes. William was well known to the Stewart
family. He gave the family his ticket to leave Scotland when they did not have enough and paid for his by working on the ship. When it was time to cross the plains, he drove their team of oxen.
When Martha turned 18, she became William’s second wife. In 1859, the family was called to help with the establishment of a new settlement, a place called Plain City because of the barren plains. In Salt Lake City, the sisters had separate homes, but in Plain City, they shared a home. Elizabeth passed in 1868. Martha took over the family and reared all the children as her own. Her brother, John Stewart, passed and left a young widow, Emma, and 2 children. William took her as another wife in 1870.
Life in the great west was not for the weak. Martha was strong and independent and took an active role in helping with the farming, raising stock, and rearing children, but her family was not bereft of tragedy. Martha lost two children in infancy, a son in 1867 who was a week old, and a daughter in 1868 who died the day she was born. William was called to serve missions in
Scotland and Australia. Martha was left to tend to all the needs of the family on her own. William returned in 1875.
In 1882 the Edmonds Law banned polygamy, and William chose to live with Emma. Even so, William was brought in on trial for co-habitation. William and Martha testified that when the law passed, they ceased living as husband and wife, but he would provide her with a home. Martha told the court that the farm was hers and had been by the 1881 deed. He was found guilty of co-habitation anyway and spent six months in the penitentiary.
Martha was one of several women called in 1885 to take part in special training for obstetrics and disease. She trained in Salt Lake City under the famous woman doctor, Dr. Shipp. She graduated from this and spent the rest of her life serving the women of her community as a midwife. She tended to the sick and dead of Plain City.
She passed away on August 11th, 1900. She was buried in the Plain City cemetery next to William and Elizabeth.
Our writer Nathaniel shares some authentic Hispanic recipes from his stepdad’s kitchen in celebration of Cinco De Mayo!
RECIPES BY NATHANIEL LOOMIS PHOTOS BY CINDY JONESServes 5
Huevos Rancheros are delicious and perfect for brunch, but also great at dinnertime! The eggs in this dish are cooked over-easy and over-medium, but you can cook the eggs to your taste, even scramble them, adding them to the cooked chorizo. You can customize toppings however you like too!
10 Eggs
1 lb. Chorizo
10 Corn Tortillas
2 cans Refried Beans
1 jar Salsa Verde
Cheese (your preferred works best here)
Cherry Tomatoes, halved
1 White Onion, diced
2 Avocados, seed removed and sliced
Sour Cream (optional)
• Heat the refried beans in a small pot.
• Coat the bottom of a small pan with
oil and bring to medium heat. If the oil begins to smoke, turn the heat down and allow it to cool before beginning. Cook each tortilla until crispy and golden brown on both sides, then place on a large baking sheet with paper towels to drain the excess.
• In another pan, cook the chorizo until done and set aside, use the same pan to fry up your eggs (the chorizo oil makes them taste amazing) before setting them aside to drain as well.
• Assemble your huevos rancheros— tortilla, beans, cheese, chorizo, 1 fried egg, salsa verde, onion, cherry tomatoes, and top it all off with some avocado slices and sour cream if you’d like! Makes 2 per person
Serves 5
Making your own taco seasoning from scratch makes all the difference in flavor, and the fresh, crispy crunch
of the tortillas is totally worth the extra step of frying them.
1 pkg. Corn Tortillas
Oil
2 lbs. Ground Beef
1 cup Water
1-2 cans Refried Beans
1 Yellow Onion, diced
3 Roma Tomatoes, diced
1 head Lettuce, chopped
2 Avocados, seed removed and sliced
1 tub Sour Cream
Cheese (your preferred here works just as good as a three-cheese blend or Velveeta slices)
Taco Seasoning Ingredients:
2 Tbsp. Chili Powder
1 ¼ Tbsp. Ground Cumin
2 tsp. Smoked Paprika
1 Tbsp. Garlic Powder
1 tsp. Onion Powder
1 tsp. Dried Oregano
Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
2 tsp. Sea Salt
2 tsp. Ground Black Pepper
–Continued on page 30–
• Mix all the taco seasoning ingredients and stir.
• In a large pan, heat 1 Tbsp. of oil and throw in half of the chopped onion. Sweat the onion before adding in the ground beef.
• While the meat is browning, grab a small pot and heat your refried beans.
• Once the meat is browned, throw in the taco seasoning with 1 cup of water and stir over medium heat, allowing the sauce to cook down and coat the beef.
• Coat the bottom of a small pan with a layer of oil and bring to a medium heat (turn the heat down if the oil begins to smoke). Using tongs, slide one corn tortilla into the oil until the surface of the tortilla begins to bubble, then flip (10-30 seconds each side), or fry until one side is a golden brown, then flip and repeat. This allows you to make foldable soft tacos or crunchy and flat chalupas. Place cooked tortillas on a large baking pan with paper towels to drain and soak up the excess oil.
• Layer beans, cheese, meat, vegetables, and sour cream onto the tortillas/chalupas and serve!
Serves 8-10
My family uses a large stone baking dish, but a 13x9 baking dish will also work. It’s a very filling meal we make on special occasions, and it even replaced our traditional Christmas dinner to become a new family tradition!
1 Large pkg. Corn Tortillas
1 lb. Ground Beef
1 Yellow Onion, diced Oil
32 oz. Low-Sodium Beef Stock Water
4 Tbsp. Chile Powder
1 Tbsp. Smoked Paprika
4 Tbsp. Garlic Powder
1/2 cup Flour
3 bags Three-Cheese Blend OR 3-24-count Velveeta Slices
• Coat the bottom of a small pan with a layer of oil and bring to a medium heat (turn the heat down if the oil begins to smoke). Using the large package of tortillas and a pair of tongs, slide one corn tortilla into the oil until the surface of the tortilla begins to bubble, then flip (roughly 10-30 seconds each side). Place flat and stack on a tray lined with paper towels to drain and pat the tops dry, then slice in half and set aside once all the tortillas have been cooked.
• In a large soup pot (two if you need to), throw in 1 Tbsp. of oil and sweat ½ the diced onion before adding the ground beef. Once the beef has browned, remove it from the pot and drain.
• Preheat your oven to 375°.
• In the pot with the beef oil, form a roux of flour, chili powder, garlic powder, and smoked paprika before adding in the beef stock, bit by bit and stirring well so no clumps form. My family always eyeballs this part so the measurements are approximated, but the important part is making enough roux for the amount of sauce you need. Once the stock is added, add water until you’re left with your desired thickness of sauce.
• Allow the sauce to cook and thicken before adding the beef back in. If it’s too runny, make a slurry of warm water and flour to add to the pot, stirring well and ensuring no clumps form. It’s easier to thicken than it is to make it runny again.
• In your large baking dish, begin with a layer of sauce and meat before topping with a layer of cheese, then tortillas. Keep stacking until you end with a layer of cheese.
• Bake until the top layer of cheese begins to bubble and burn, then remove from the oven and allow to cool for 10-15 minutes before serving We usually have a side of pinto beans to go with it.
