Cache Valley Family Magazine Spring 2015

SPRING 2015

Inside Buying or Building Your Dream Home in 2015, p. 14 Smart Irrigation = Healthy, Beautiful Landscapes: Save Money and Water, p. 28 An End to Bullying, p. 33

Make exercise a priority for your family p. 20

Classes and Camps Guide p. 34

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From the Editor...

T

his issue marks one full year of activity for Cache Valley Family Magazine.

It has been a remarkable year, full of great opportunities for me, and my team, to meet some of Cache Valley’s most dedicated and knowledgeable experts, educators and public servants, and to tell the stories of incredible individuals and families who live and work in our community.

I have been overwhelmed by the support of this publication. We created Cache Valley Family Magazine to be a resource for families and to enrich their lives.

We could not do that without the support of local businesses who choose to advertise and sponsor our publication or without the support of the local schools who distribute it. We thank these groups, and invite you to show your appreciation too by patronizing the businesses and letting them know if you enjoy this resource.

This issue includes a feature called #likeagirl on page 24. Its about teaching our children, especially daughters, to have the confidence and courage to become the best they can be and to encourage each other to do the same. As the mother of four amazing little girls I am proud to be a part of this campaign, which will also benefit women’s health screenings at Logan Regional Hospital.

Thank you for being a part of the reason Cache Valley is a great place to live, and for reading and supporting Cache Valley Family Magazine through its first year. Here’s to many more!

Emil y

What’s INSIDE PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Emily Buckley COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Mandy Bagley PHOTOGRAPHY Mandy Bagley Nicole Leavitt Kylee Ann Maughan CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Hillary Anderson Mark Anderson Tara Bone Emily Buckley Sherelle Christensen Jody Davis Peter Dettore Marshal Garrett Jared Gillman Dave Gordon, DDS Bob Henke Lane Jones Barrett Labrum, DO Sgt. Troy LIquin Kinsey Love Jenny Mathews Breanne Miller Kate Petersen Shay Smith Breann Silcox Janelle Simmons GRAPHIC DESIGN Rachel Cottrell Raschelle Goodman Emily Buckley WEBSITE DESIGN Kite Media Cache Valley Family Magazine is a free, trusted resource designed to inform, serve and enrich local parents and families throughout Cache Valley. Material in this publication is copyright 2015, Cache Valley Family Magazine. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission of the publisher is prohibited. The views expressed in the magazine are the views of the writers and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher.

Please send all editorial correspondence to info@cachevalleyfamilymagazine.com or by mail to PO Box 6831, North Logan, UT 84341. All correspondence is sent on a non-confidential basis and Cache Valley Family Magazine shall be free to reproduce, publish, edit and/or use any such communications. All materials become property of Cache Valley Family Magazine.

PHONE 435.764.0962 MAILING ADDRESS PO Box 6831 North Logan, UT 84341 EMAIL info@cachevalleyfamilymagazine.com FACEBOOK facebook.com/ cachevalleyfamilymagazine TO ADVERTISE call 435.764.0962 or email ads@cachevalleyfamilymagazine.com

Featured Stories:

Make Physical Activity a Priority for Your Family — p. 20 Grocery Shop for the Season — p. 6 Charlie’s Celebrates 25 Years of Serving Sweet Treats — p. 8 Buying or Building Your Dream Home in 2015 — p. 14 Berries in the Garden — p. 15 Habits of an Organized Person — p. 16 Spring into Summer: Prepare Your Home — p. 18 Cache Valley Foot and Bike Race Guide — p. 21 Coping with Death— p. 22 Smart Irrigation=Healthy, Beautiful Landscapes — p. 28 Porn-Proofing Your Family — p. 29

In Every Issue:

AGES AND STAGES:

What to Look for in a Babysitter — p. 17 An End to Bullying — p. 33

Around the Table:

From the Farmer’s Wife: Asparagus — p. 12 Making a Difference: Alpine Church — p. 7

Healthy Family:

The Basics of Immunizations — p. 9 Dental Implant Misconceptions — p. 11 Sun Hazards in Your Car: Block UV Rays While Driving — p. 32 The Trendy Mom: #likeagirl — p. 24 Family Firsts: NYC or Bust — p. 30

Safe Families:

I Confess: I Have Been a Drowsy Driver — p. 13

Education Update:

Update on New Cache County High School — p. 26 Logan Schools Promote Physical Activity — p. 27 CACHE VALLEY FAMILY MAGAZINE IS SPONSORED BY:

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Grocery Shop for the Season Shay Smith, contributing writer

It’s Spring! That means it is time for some of the best and most flavorful fruits and vegetables are back in season. Take advantage of the freshest produce and make the most of what local grocery stores have to offer.

What does it mean when someone says that a fruit or vegetable is “in season?”

When a fruit or vegetable is in season, it is the time of year that a crop ripens and is harvested for people to eat. Unless there is a problem with the crop, it is the time of year when a fruit or vegetable is most readily available.

Want to get more for your money? Buying in season often helps! small vegetable kabobs that include Tuesday mail.”

“Prices usually come down when a fruit or vegetable is in season,” said Jarom Bernhardt, produce manager at the Smithfield Lee’s Marketplace.

a grape tomato, a slice of mini cucumber and cube of string cheese on a toothpick,” Jarom, a father of eight, said. “My kids love helping put them together.”

“In addition, the quality of the proFreshness is a top priority in the Lee’s duce (taste, texture, f r e s h p r o - duce departments. “We ness, etc.) is at its best. have six produce deliverWhen you buy produce ies come in each week, and that is out of season (for our team goes through all re example, buyat Mo duce of the produce on E ing berries in Pro Lunch, l the floor multiple a n o the winter), you Seas Breakfast, s times each day to enk are likely buying for nac c a n s S a & e sure freshness” said r d I u e food that has Dinn g how yo into Jarom.

“Our stanin e r uc de been shipped Won resh prod at also dard is to remove f th hundreds or t work hy meal anything that we ck o u e . e lt h a e C even thousands of zin ah d? wouldn’t be proud to m ag a s go o miles.” taste lleyfamily al ideas. e buy and take home to a m v e r h c ac es fo our own families.” recip / m o So what are the c best picks for Spring All of the Lee’s Produce Deproduce? Jarom says partments, work together to beginning now, guests can find the best prices on in-season look forward to the best mangos, produce and pass the savings on to pineapple, grapes, strawberries, guests. sweet bell peppers and lettuces for great salads.

“We usually have an in-store special,” Jarom said. “So keep your eyes open “One of my favorite things to make and watch the ads that come in the with my kids this time of year are

Additionally, if Lee’s doesn’t carry an item you would like, they are happy to make custom orders and add to the variety they carry at your request. “I love meeting new people and helping them learn how to enjoy healthy produce,” Jarom said. “You definitely have a friend in the Lee’s produce department.”

Robert Price, produce manager of the Logan Lee’s Marketplace agrees.

“What makes Lee’s produce department different is the special effort we put in the finding a good variety of fresh, quality produce at a fair price.”

A great way to get the most out of your produce purchase is to buy our fresh-cut options, Robert said. “We have a trained team to select the most prime produce to cut and get the most out of every piece so there is not waste at all in the package you bring home.” Lee’s has recently expanded their fresh cut sections in all their locations, allowing guests the option of buying pre-cut fruits and vegetables that are ready to eat and will stay fresh for up to seven days.

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Making a Difference:

Alpine Church on a Mission to Teach Sacrificed Giving

Emily Buckley, editor-in-chief

Alpine Church is a

non-denominational Christian church in northern Utah centered on Jesus Christ and the teachings of the Bible. It was established in 2001 in Ogden. The church’s congregation grew quickly and now has six locations in northern Utah, including one in Logan lead by Pastor Chad Hewitt.

“Our mission is to introduce people to Jesus,” said Chad. “With

that focus on Christ we hope to become His hands and feet. We talk about the difference God makes in our lives and use that to reach out and help others. ”

focus. So, when members of our congregation come to me looking for opportunities to serve I am happy to point them into community to make a difference.”

In Logan, Alpine has a congregation of about 500. “Many of our people are looking for ways to get involved and looking for outreach opportunities,” said Chad. “We don’t want to just do things for people who attend our church, but want to also have an outward

This outward focus includes individuals volunteering in the community as well as churchorganized missions.

One of these missions is Feed My Starving Children, a national nonprofit Christian organization committed to feeding God’s children hungry in body and spirit. Alpine Church has partnered with the organization for the last five years in Utah with their first project in Logan in December 2014.

Alpine Church raised $65,000 for the organization between Thanksgiving and New Years.

That money was converted to 230,000 specifically formulated meals that children and adults in the community hand packed for malnourished children in impoverished countries.

“Missions like this are tangible opportunities to teach our congregation and children about sacrificed giving,” Chad said.

Other missions that Alpine Church has been actively involved in this year include a Purse Project for CAPSA (Citizens Against Physical and Sexual Abuse), an organization that provides safe, caring and confidential shelter, advocacy and support for victims of domestic violence and sexual

assault in Cache Valley.

The Purse Project involves women from Alpine Church putting together purses to gift to women sheltered at CAPSA. The purses contain a variety of things to promote physical and spiritual healing and peace including sugar scrubs and soaps, necklaces that say, ‘I am Enough,’ Bibles with marked verses encouraging hope, hand-written letters of encouragement and more.

Alpine Church is also involved with an annual Christmas Box drive for Operation Christmas Child (an organization that sends shoe box-sized Christmas gifts to children around the world), the local Loaves and Fishes Community Meal, service missions (including an upcoming Hands Across the Borders mission trip to Mexico involving 25 local teens) and much more.

“We are striving to reach people in our own community as well as globally,” Chad said.

All are welcome to volunteer and become involved with Alpine Church’s service opportunities.

Their Facebook page, www.facebook.com/alpinechurch, is a good way to stay apprised of their projects.

Visitors are also welcome to join in their Sunday worship services, held at 395 S. Main in Logan at 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., Noon and 6 p.m. each week.

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I SCREAM, YOU SCREAM, WE ALL SCREAM FOR ICE CREAM:

Charlie’s Celebrates 25 Years of Serving Up Sweet Treats Emily Buckley, editor-in-chief Charlie’s Supreme Ice Cream is a Cache Valley staple that holds a special place in many longtime residents’ and past university students’ hearts. The business has stood the test of time as it celebrates 25 years of business in our community this year.

Owner Craig Earl’s passion for the ice cream started when he was a young boy. He fondly recalls riding his bicycle two miles from his childhood home in River Heights to Winget’s Ice Cream drive thru in south Logan for a hard ice cream and a scone on an “almost” daily basis. Year’s later, he had the opportunity be mentored by his neighbor and friend Dr. Anthon Ernstrom, who was the head of dairy manufacturing [and Aggie Ice Cream] at Utah State University.

his father, his son and his father-in-law.

“One of the things we have enjoyed about being in business all these years are the hundreds of employees we’ve had,” Craig said. “We build relationships with them and enjoy getting to reconnect with them when they stop by the store or visit town.”

Craig and his wife Lorraine also own Heart to Heart Foods, Inc., headquartered in Hyde Park. This is where all of the ice cream

“I have always loved ice cream,” said Craig, who earned his bachelor degree in Food Science at USU. His love for the cold, sweet treat became his career in 1980 when he started making Creamies in a small space at 580 North Main Street in Logan. Six years later he went into business with a partner to open the Premium Malt Shop where they made and sold Creamies as well as classic ice cream and malt treats. Exactly four years after that, on June 4, 1990, Craig separated from his business partner and opened Charlie’s Supreme Ice Cream in the location it is today, 1263 North Main in Logan.

“A great moment for me was when I stopped by the shop, and saw Mr. R.N. Winget [the owner of Winget’s Ice Cream] in my drive thru,” Craig said. “It was a confirmation that I was doing alright.”

The name Charlie’s wasn’t just a catchy choice. It holds a story and legacy of its own.

Not only is it the formal version “Charles,” Craig Earl’s given middle name, it is also the name of two of his great grandfathers,

Owners Craig and Lorraine Earl served at Charlie’s is made, and is the

manufacturing facility for their signature Creamies, which are distributed throughout the western United States.

“We have been successful all these years because of the community,” Craig said.

“We appreciate the support and try to give back where we can. We’ve been lucky, yes, but we’ve also found that the harder we work, the luckier we are. It’s been a lot of fun.”

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The Basics of Immunizations:

What Parents Need to Know

Barrett Labrum, DO, pediatrician Primary Care Pediatrics

With the recent MMR out- Two centuries later the deadly disease, your immune system break in California and Arizo- smallpox virus was eradicated. is able to recognize the invadna, immunizations and public health has become a hot topic in mainstream media. Immunization information in general can be very difficult for parents to research because a simple Google search can provide information that is both based on scientific evidence as well as false and misleading. Here is some basic information about immunizations that will help parents understand the role of vaccines in their family’s health.

History of Immunizations In 1776, Edward Jenner conducted and experiment with cowpox and showed that infection with cowpox provided protection against a more deadly disease: smallpox. His idea changed the way we looked at disease as well as provided a way to prevent the devastating disease from occurring.

In 1885, Louis Pasteur provided the next breakthrough when he developed a vaccine for Rabies. Salk and Sabin developed vaccines for polio in the 1950’s which proved invaluable in providing protection from another feared and devastating illness.

It has been since 1993 there has been a confirmed case of wild poliovirus in the United States.

Since then, many other viral and bacterial illnesses have been identified for vaccine development. Current vaccine schedules protect young children from 15 illnesses.

How do vaccines work?

The human immune system is complex and advanced. Your body is constantly bombarded by proteins and particles from the environment we live in. When your body is infected with an organism that causes

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er and fight back in a series of complex pathways. Your immune system will also make antibodies that will protect your body from attack again so that the immune response will be faster and more potent the next time. Vaccines take advantage of the immune system “memory” by exposing the body to a weakened virus or bacteria, allowing the body to have an immune response and make antibodies for the disease. If you are exposed to the disease again, the response will be bigger and better and the possibility of getting sick from the invader is much less.

If these diseases are rare, why do we still need to vaccinate?

Fortunately, many of the diseases that we vaccinate for are now rare. But they still exist in many areas of the world and enter into our communities through travel and immigration.

The diseases are rare in our community because we vaccinate. When a large portion of the community is vaccinated, the disease is unable to spread and the whole community benefits. This concept is known as “herd immunity” and is very important for public health. Herd immunity rates depend on the disease, for example measles requires vaccination rates of 90-95 percent to prevent outbreaks and 80-85 percent rates are needed for polio. As we

have seen by recent large outbreaks of measles and pertussis, these diseases spread easily in unvaccinated populations.

Is there a safe “alternative” schedule?

The approved vaccine schedule is rigorously studied for both safety and efficacy (how well it works). The scheduled vaccines are given at times when your child is most at risk for the disease and will receive the maximum benefit from the vaccine.

The schedule is studied very closely for safety and has been proved to be extremely safe when given as recommended.

Alternative schedules are easily found, but have no scientific evidence of either safety or efficacy and are not recommended to be routinely followed.

While vaccines have been shown to be safe and very effective, questions and concerns often arise. Your medical provider has had years of experience and training in regards to vaccines and is able to address these questions for you.

Help Yourself to a Better Selfie.

FREE dental implant consultations.

Dr. Dave Gordon, DDS

981 S. Main Street, Logan, UT • (435) 213-1278 www.loganpeakdental.com • Hablamos Español

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DENTAL IMPLANT

misconceptions

Dave Gordon, DDS Logan Peak Dental

Are you missing teeth that you fort after the surgery. In the second, volves several steps often with waiting would like to have back? Do you have dentures that don’t fit very well and don’t allow you to eat foods you like?

It’s very possible that a dental implant may be the solution you are looking for.

Dental implants have become one of the biggest breakthroughs in dentistry in the last 100 years. They provide an excellent replacement for missing or damaged teeth and also provide an optimal way to hold a denture in place.

Still not convinced? Here’s some answers to common misconceptions I often hear from patients.

Misconception #1: Dental implants are expensive.

While it’s true that implants may cost slightly more than other procedures to replace missing teeth, the value of an implant is in its longevity. The amount of time an implant typically outlasts its alternatives could be measured in decades not years. In the long run, spending a little extra upfront for an implant saves money and hassle in the future.

In addition, we don’t have to harm the teeth on either side of the missing tooth as we would for a bridge.

patients feel no more discomfort than they would have felt from having their tooth taken out.

Misconception #3: Insurance plans don’t cover implants.

times in between them. This is necessary to ensure that the implant is the best it can be and last for your lifetime.

The steps in the process are straight forward and in the end the whole experience ends up being quite pleasant.

The TRUE hassle is having to thread floss underneath a bridge to clean it or always fearing that your denture will fall out of your mouth at a dinner party.

Yes, dental insurances have been slow to add implants as a covered benefit on their plans but more and more insurances are starting to see how cost effective implants are in the long run.

It is always wise to check with your insurance carrier to confirm coverage, The bottom line is that dental implants but you’ll likely be pleasantly surprised are a safe, effective and predictable way to give you the teeth you’ve been by what you find. wishing you could have back. If you Misconception #4: Implants are a have more questions about whether an implant is a good option for you, hassle.

The process for getting an implant in- talk to your trusted dentist.

Misconception #2: Implants are painful.

Not necessarily. There are many things that influence how much discomfort a person feels after procedures like this, but most of these things can be prepared for to ensure you are comfortable. There are two different options for placing an implant. The first is to simply put an implant in the jaw where there is no tooth. The other is to take a tooth out and put an implant in its place the same day. In the first case, my patients report only minor discom- photo by Aya Photography

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The birds are singing, the grass is starting to turn green and life is new once again! One of my favorite seasonal vegetables for spring is asparagus. Growing up on the dirt country roads of Idaho, I spent every spring searching the ditch banks for asparagus, which grows wild along the banks. You had to know just where the patches were, and if you got lucky, you could fill a grocery bag in no time. My grandmother and dad loved to cook up the asparagus to go along with our meals. My dad would simple boil the asparagus and drain the water, then cover it with a little lemon juice, salt and pepper and a dab of butter. I would gobble it up.

Sherelle Christensen, contributing writer www.sherellechristensen.typepad.com

Now that I’m grown, I enjoy sharing the same tradition with my family. We love to pick asparagus on our canal and ditch banks every spring. If you aren’t lucky enough to live where it grows wild, you can certainly find asparagus in abundance at your local market this time of year. Here are a two of my favorite ways to use asparagus.

Roasted Asparagus

Pickled Asparagus*

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Rinse asparagus and chop off the bottoms, about 1”. The bottoms of the plant can become tough and hard to chew. Spread asparagus spears on a foil lined baking sheet or pan.

In bottom of quart sized jar, place the following: 1/8 tsp. alum 2 cloves garlic 1 tsp. dill seed 1 tsp. dill weed 1 large slice jalapeño (use more or less depending on desired heat level) Stuff jars tight with asparagus spears

Drizzle with: 4-5 Tbs. Olive Oil 2-3 Tbs. Balsamic Vinegar Toss lightly to coat.

Sprinkle generously with: garlic powder salt fresh cracked black pepper Parmesan cheese Roast in oven about 10-12 minutes.

Add the following to a large pot: 1 c. canning salt 1 quart apple cider vinegar 3 quarts water Bring contents to a boil to dissolve. Remove from heat. Pour liquid over asparagus leaving 1/2” head space. Now you can choose if you would like to preserve the pickled asparagus for later. If you can eat it within a month, you can simply place the jars in the fridge. Allow at least 2-3 days for the flavor to develop before consuming. If you would like to preserve the asparagus for later, place a lid and ring on jar and process for 15 minutes in a hot water bath. Remove and allow to cool. Seal jars before storing. *NOTE: A single recipe of liquid fills about 5-6 quart size jars that are packed tightly.

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I Confess: I Have Been a

DROWSY DRIVER I have done this way too often in the last 29 years since I walked out with that coveted document. I need to confess! Then again, I don’t need to. You could ask my family who has driven with me when I am tired, and they could tell you for me.

I HAVE BEEN A DROWSY DRIVER. In my profession you would think that I would have learn lessons from being at horrific accident scenes; seeing the carnage that one careless moment can leave in its wake. Looking into the faces of those that I have delivered news that their loved ones would not be returning home should be enough. No one should ever receive that knock on the door, NO ONE. I know better, I do.

There really are no excuses. I could try and make excuses like I stayed up too late, the kids kept me up or it was a late shift. I could even justify it and say that I am not alone. Afterall, YOU do it too. In 2009, 97 percent of adult Utah motorists admitted that driving while severely drowsy is a major threat, and 44 percent say they have fallen asleep or nodded off for even a moment while driving, according to the Utah Department of Public Safety poll. In

Sgt. Troy Liquin Cache County Sheriff’s Office

the end they are just that, excuses. I need more sleep and so do you. We need to recognize when we are not safe to operate a motor vehicle that is hurtling down the road toward others.

There are plenty of warning signs to help remind us. That voice we hear that says, “No, I am fine.” Sure we are! Because I bet we just spent the last few miles squinting to see down the road.

On top of that, you may feel nice and calm….and……LOOK OUT you are in the wrong lane! “Where are we?” or “What did we just pass?” Pride is a terrible thing. Yet it keeps us behind the wheel instead of simply pulling over. Somehow we lose sight of the very value of our own lives and the lives of those we are transporting, not to mention the innocent lives we pass who have no idea what condition we are in as we pass by – IF we pass by.

My career often feels like a looking glass into others’ lives as they go through unimaginable pain from choices made sometimes by them, sometimes by others. You don’t want to look, but you often find yourself staring and wondering why

them? Why when a bright future is about to blossom?

Over this past year I have watched a family that lost a son to the dark epidemic of drowsy driving. A simple late night, an earlier drive and a tragic morning changed everything. Grief abounds in all members of this family. Flickers of hope shine through at times in the form of memories. It is the “what ifs” that haunt the memories. It is also this family’s strength to overcome this tragedy that gives me hope. They have a found a voice to speak and share their son with others. Life’s greatest lessons often come from those that have seen the darkest moments. I hope that you and I wake up in time to realize that we never want to experience this family’s pain. Pull over, let someone else drive, get some rest and be safe!

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Buying or Building Your Dream Home in 2015 Kinsey Love, marketing manager Lewiston State Bank

Buying a home means spending a lot of time paying attention to the details, from blueprints to paint and everything in between. Buying a home means a lot of time searching and scrutinizing the options. All of this time and these details eventually lead to your dream home. Do you know where to start when it comes to building or buying your own dream home?

Government Lending Laws and Financing Options Could Save You Money on Your Dream Home

If you are in the market to buy a home right now, you are in luck. In an effort to make owning a home more affordable, the Federal Housing Administration has dramatically cut the costs associated with the mortgages it backs, from 1.35 percent of a loan’s value to 0.85 percent. A typical firsttime home buyer will save hundreds each year on mortgage payments, and even homeowners who already have a loan may be able to save.

The White House estimated that these new premiums will enable 250,000 new buyers to purchase a home. FHA loans are an important part of the economy; with smaller downpayment requirements, an FHA loan may allow a lower-income borrower to obtain a home loan that would be difficult or impossible without this program. FHA mortgage insurance provides lenders with protection against losses as the result of homeowners defaulting on their mortgage loans. With lower premiums for mortgage insurance, the ability to own a home may become even more realistic for many borrowers.

Since new home sales have increased over the last couple of years[1], many first-time home buyers closed loans before the January 26, 2015 effective date for this change — meaning they’re paying the higher mortgage-insurance premiums. These borrowers are not eligible for the new premiums unless they refinance. These homeowners may want to consider refinancing and should contact an FHAapproved lender to find out if refinancing now would produce savings.

There are other advantages to refinancing with an FHA streamline mortgage, including refinancing a mortgage without all of the paperwork, underwriting qualifications, appraisal, or time normally necessary when refinancing a home loan and it offers lower interest rates, lower monthly payments, the security of a fixed-rate mortgage and little or no cash due at closing.

If you are looking to build a home, the cooperative weather and some financing options can make this a reality right now. There are options to help you simplify your financing that can save you money on origination fees, such as the Construction + Mortgage option through Lewiston State Bank.

Whether you are looking to buy or build your dream home this spring, the financing conditions are favorable to potentially save you money. [1] https://www.census.gov/construction/nrs/

Let us help you build your dream home.

GET A CONSTRUCTION AND MORTGAGE LOAN TOGETHER TO SAVE BIG ON ORIGINATION FEES.* *The mortgage must follow a construction loan originated on or before December 31, 2015. Only valid in Cache, Box Elder, and Franklin counties. Loans are subject to credit approval.

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BERRIES IN THE GARDEN Remember as a child going

out into the garden and picking a fresh strawberry or raspberry off the plant and savoring the amazing flavor? We can experience that same memory with

our children in our own backyards. Early Spring is a great time to plant all kinds of berries like blackberries, blueberries, strawberries and raspberries. All it takes is a little time and effort, and you and your children can pick handfuls of juicy berries to enjoy.

When planting berry plants, make sure your location has good drainage. Rocky and sandy soil works better than heavy clay soils, so be sure to amend your soil with organic matter (a rich compost with poultry manure, avoid steer manure if possible) and incorporate it into the soil 6-8 inches deep. Berries like full sun, so make sure the area you are planting gets sunlight for a minimum of 10 hours a day.

They also prefer heavy waterings, but not too frequently. I water our berries once a week with a soaker hose for 4-6 hours

and it works great.

Before planting, start working on a plan to protect those yummy berries from birds and other damaging pests (deer, insects, slugs). You aren’t the only one who thinks that berries taste amazing. Nets and fencing work better for deer and birds, but I have had great luck with motion sensitive sprinklers as well. As for insects and bugs, a little prevention goes a long way, and there are some very inexpensive and effective (yet very safe!) products that will stop them before they get started nibbling.

As you select what plants you want to grow, keep in mind that everbearing fruit rarely produce all the time; they consistently produce a late spring/early summer crop and a fall crop. My favorite varieties are: Tri-star and Honeyoye for strawberries, Heri-

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Mark Anderson, owner, Anderson Seed and Garden

tage and Canby for raspberries and Arapahoe for blackberries.

When planting, use a mycorrhizae and root stimulator to get them established quicker and go through less transplant shock.

Kangaroots by Bushdoctor is my personal favorite, it gets plants established faster and promotes more early root development than anything I have ever used.

Fertilize with a slow release nitrogen and iron fertilizer, as all these berries tend to be iron deficient. I use Hi-yield Iron+ as it has what it takes to keep those berry plants green, healthy and producing.

If you’re tired of eating firm, tasteless strawberries from the grocery store, rest assured that you can grow your own in planters, raised beds, flower beds or even gardens. They’re easy to grow, and nothing in the store tastes like they ones you’ll grow yourself.

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PART TWO:

Think a Purchase Through ger for it so we wouldn’t have to keep buying disposable batteries. We have since gotten a different camera, but do you know what is still in our drawer, Janelle Simmons, owner taking up space? The charger that we The Organizing Company of Cache Valley now never use. These are some of the The next habit in our series on organi- hidden costs that we did not anticization is about what we bring into our pate. homes. Isn’t it fun to have new clothes or the latest electronic devices? Let’s To go along with hidden costs, is what take a moment to discuss how much I call the “managerial” fee. Everything this stuff costs. Of course there is the we bring into our home has to be mansticker price, but there are also have aged. We have to spend time and enthe hidden costs. Hidden costs in- ergy putting it away, cleaning it, workclude the money, time, and space it ing around it, etc. Some things don’t takes to maintain it. A long time ago, require a lot of managing, but they still my husband and I were so excited to add to our ever-growing pile of stuff fillbuy a digital camera. Our excitement ing up our closets, drawers, basements, wore off when we realized how it ate and garages that do have to be manthrough batteries. It was an expensive aged. I will get rid of things because camera to maintain. So we decided to the item is not worth the managerial buy rechargeable batteries and a char- fee. It costs me more time and energy

to manage it than the enjoyment and use I get out of it.

Another thing that will help you keep your spaces organized is to ask where you are going to put the stuff that you get. Think about this before purchasing.

Do you really have space for it? If you don’t have space, but you really want or need it, decide how you are going to make room for it. What are you going to give up so your space will still function and you won’t be “over managed?”

Develop the habit of thinking a purchase through before getting it. Think about the hidden costs of an item and the managerial fee. Think about where you are going to put it when you get it home. Filtering what you bring into your home, goes a long way in being organized.

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WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A babysitter Kate Petersen, contributing writer

The job of a parent is full. No wonder it’s often referred to as a juggling act! By hiring a trustworthy and qualified babysitter, parents are given some help while children are given the time to engage and connect with a fun, responsible caregiver.

babysitter profiles are that they provide you with the applicant’s age, babysitting experience, medical training, availability, pay requirement and contact info. These sites also allow you run a background and/or driving history report on your potential babysitter.

How to Find a Babysitter We surveyed Cache Valley parents about how they choose a babysitter and what they look for when hiring a babysitter. The survey said that 89 percent of parents find their babysitters through referrals from family members or friends. If you don’t have a resource for referrals, another option is use websites like sittercity.com or care.com. Both of these sites are free to view or post babysitting jobs, but both charge a fee to view individual babysitter profiles. The advantage of viewing individual

What to Look for in a Babysitter Entrusting your child in the care of someone else is one of the most important decisions a parent can make. As mentioned, some babysitting websites allow you to run background or driving history report on your potential babysitter. These reports can be a great way to screen potential sitters before you conduct your interview or introduce them to your child. Remember, it is okay to be picky, trust your gut and set the bar high.

What to Pay a Babysitter According to care.com, the average rate to pay a babysitter is $10.75 per hour (location and number of children were not specified). In our local survey, babysitter pay rates were mixed, but 38 percent of the respondents said they pay at least $5 per hour for their sitter to watch one child. Some shared that they pay a flat rate no matter how many children their sitter watches, and some calculate their rate by paying the sitter $2-3 per child per hour.

Guidelines to Set for a Babysitter It’s always wise to give your new sitter a tour of your home so they can learn where things are and what places and things are off limits. Be sure to go over safety precautions such as never leaving a child unattended in a bath, on a changing table or any other areas where the child could fall or be injured, as well as any precautions to take if they are allowed to go outdoors. It’s also important to teach your sitter how to use any safety equipment you have in your home and to provide them with emergency information like your cell number(s), home address, neighbor contact info, poison control and pediatricians phone number.

To make meal time easier, think ahead by providing previously prepared meals or snacks or meals you are comfortable with the sitter preparing. If the sitter is coming during a particularly busy time, it may be helpful to outline a schedule to follow. Also go over your rules on your child’s screen time. In our survey, 76 percent of parents allow their children to watch TV or a movie with a sitter, but only shows they have approved, and 39 percent allowed watching TV or a movie during a designated time period. To promote screen-free time with your child and their babysitter, try encouraging your child ahead of time to pick out a activities they would like to play with their sitter. In our survey, 85 percent of parents expect their babysitter to solely watch and play with their child or children, but 59 percent said they would pay more if their sitter offered to do household chores in addition to watching the children. If you have expectations on what you’d like your home to look like when you come home, make sure remind your sitter and children to clean up.

Don’t forget to go over your policy on your babysitter using their cellphone or having guests. In our survey, 93 percent of parents do not allow their babysitter to have anyone else visit, and 46 percent of parents approved of their sitter only using their cellphone in case of an emergency.

Intermountain Logan Regional Hospital currently offers classes to help prepare future babysitters ages 9 to 14. The class emphasizes the babysitter’s responsibility for providing fun and safe childcare. Participants learn about infant care, safety, first aid and fun activities. A homework packet must be picked up and completed before the class begins. Price includes a light lunch and babysitting bag. Cost for the class is $30 and is required at the time the child signed up. You can register by calling 435.716.5310. Class dates and times are: May 16 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. or June 9, June 23, July 14 or August 11 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The American Red Cross also offers courses online for a fee of $30-35. These class topics include: Babysitting Basics, First Aid, CPR and Family Safety. To register, visit: www.redcross.org/courses.

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Spring into Summer Looking back at the past few months, it seems that winter skipped the entire Rocky Mountain region. Coming out of one of the mildest winters on record some experts are predicting a long, hot and dry summer. Here are some unique home projects that will have you ready for the warm weather.

Peter Dettore, Sales & Marketing Manager J. Thomas Homes

Inside Projects Stay Cool: Ceiling Fans can help keep your home cool during the hot summer. They can work with air conditioning units to help move cool air around in your living spaces or bedrooms. Two nice things about ceiling fans are they are inexpensive to purchase and will not cost much to operate.

Dust and Allergies: If your family has a history of spring allergies taking a few steps to clean your air ducts and furnace is wise. Follow these simple steps before spring allergies pop up.

1. Remove heat/cooling vent covers. Clean with hot water.

2. Remove cold air returns and clean with hot water.

3. Vacuum the inside of the cold air return and all the

air ducts that you removed vent covers.

4. Turn your furnace off and open up the front cover.

Use a can of air dust spray to clean any obvious

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dust from your unit. Wipe down the outside of the furnace with a clean rag and warm water. Replace your air filter, return the cover and turn your unit back on.

Restore: Beautiful natural stones like granite and marble can make any home look fantastic. Tile flooring, showers, surrounds and decorative backsplashes also provide a unique modern look in many homes today. Taking a little time this spring to restore the natural beauty back into your granite, marble or tile might be easier than you think. Most local home improvement stores sell a single product that can clean, enhance and seal granite, tile or marble surfaces. Applying the product to your floors or surrounds in the early evening hours will usually have it ready to walk on or use in the morning.

Outside Projects Use Less Water: Aerating your lawn can help you save on your water bill while improving the overall condition of your grass. Most lawn service companies will aerate for about $35-$45 dollars, based on the size of your yard. Be sure to mark your sprinkler head locations prior to them coming to avoid unnecessary damage to your system.

Sun Protection: Exterior trim and door casings that are exposed year round to outdoor elements can easily be returned to like-new condition with just a few hours work.

One mistake most homeowners will make when painting exterior trim is buying an expensive paint and a cheap primer. It is a better idea to spend a little more on a quality primer and a little less on paint, if you have to choose.

The primer needs to completely cover and soak into the piece being painted. A quality primer will allow the paint to last longer resulting in the trim or casing being protected from the weather for an extended period of time.

Protect the House: Take a walk around the outside of your home and take note of any shrubs, bushes, trees or large plants that have grown large enough to make contact with the homes structure. When vegetation has direct contact with your home it can create a place for insects to nest while staying out of direct sunlight. This can become a bigger problem if those insects choose to move from the nest on the outside of your siding to a little gap inside the siding. A little pruning can assure plants are at least six inches away from your home so if those creepy critters choose to nest, it will be in the bushes and not on the side of your home.

These are just a few different projects you can easily complete on a Saturday morning before heading for a family hike to the Wind Caves. If you enjoyed learning about these projects, websites like Pinterest and YouTube offer many different home improvement ideas.

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Mom’s Picks for Great Gear If you’re ready to hit the hills or trails this spring and summer, don’t let any excuses get in your way.

Here are two great products that will help you work in working out, even if you have a little one in tow.

BOB Revolution Pro is a fully loaded jogging stroller for all of your outdoor adventures. It features hand-activated rear drum brakes, making it perfect for conquering any

steep hill that stands in

your way. Its nine position, adjustable

handlebar is great for pass ing off the stroller between parents

of different heights.

It also a substantial sunshade, has an

adjustable suspension system for a smooth ride for baby, and,

most importantly, it has a five-point padded harness to keep your child comfortable and safe. It is simple to fold and has ample storage, with a basket below the seat, a pocket on the back of the seat and two internal mesh pockets for your little one’s drinks or snacks. This stroller is safe for babies from about 8 months old and has enough neck strength and control) and has a maximum weight capacity of 70 pounds.

Kelty Pathfinder 3.0 is an external frame carrier that

is perfect for backpackers, climbers and day hikers that want plenty of storage space and count durability as a necessity. It is a welldesigned piece of equipment with lots of extra cargo space. This pack has a separate pocket for a hydration reservoir, a large zippered compartment under the kid’s seat, and a detachable day pack (with mesh water bottle pockets) that zips on the back.

If you have lots of water, snacks, or layers that need to come along (possibly if you are taking additional, walking children on your trip), this pack has space for them. The waist straps and sliding torso adjusters make this pack transition smoothly (and quickly) between wearers of varying sizes. Your child must be capable of holding his or her head upright and sitting up without assistance to safely ride in this backpack.

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Make Physical Activity a

PRIORITY For Your Family

ONE LOCAL FAMILY SHARES THEIR STRATEGIES FOR MAKING EXERCISE FUN AND SIMPLE

Emily Buckley, editor-in-chief Most parents intuitively know why a passion for physical activity in their exercise is important for their families: it can increase life expectancy, lower heart risks, help control weight and improve school performance. As an added bonus, it helps kids to burn off energy that is sometimes misused indoors.

young sons.

“For us, I don’t want our exercise to always be a planned thing,” said Cory.

“It doesn’t have to be soccer or something else officially organized. We just

Since inactive children are likely to become inactive adults, making family activities and fitness part of your child’s life at an early age can go a long way toward helping them form healthy habits for life.

But, parents shouldn’t expect their kids to understand (or care!) about those things. Instead, our job is to help children see that exercise is fun. When exercise feels like play, whole families will enjoy it more and be more likely to stick with it.

Mendon residents Wayne and Cory Wheeler, who own local businesses Joyride Bikes in Downtown Logan and The Trailhead at the entrance of Logan Canyon, are doing their best to instill According to the Center for Disease Control & Prevention, children need 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity daily, but it doesn’t have to occur at once.

Here are a few ideas to help your family get started down the path to a lifetime of physical activity: SET GOALS As a family, set goals to work toward together. Make these goals specific & achievable. Instead of saying you will exercise more, set a goal like walking for 30 minutes, three times/week or going on a family bike ride each evening.

SCHEDULE YOUR ACTIVITY The most effective way to begin increasing your family’s physical activity is to schedule time for it. Start by identifying two or three 30-minute time periods for activities like taking a walk, playing sports or doing active chores. Choose times of the day or week when everyone is most likely to stick to the schedule.

BE FLEXIBLE If a conflict comes up during physical activity time, reschedule instead of canceling.

IDEAS TO GET STARTED

The ways enjoy physical activity as a family are endless. Here are just a few ideas: • Play tag, go swimming, toss around or kick a ball, jump rope, hula-hoop, dance to music or even play a dancing video game.

• Plan a family Olympics and make goals for the events each family member will participate in.

• Walk the dog, go for a jog, ride bikes, take the stairs or go to the park to run around for a while.

• Make a new house rule: No sitting still during television commercials.

• Celebrate special occasions — like birthdays or anniversaries

— with something active, such as a hike, a volleyball or soccer game or playing Frisbee at the park.

• Involve the whole family in active household chores like vacuuming, and yard work.

• Walk instead of drive.

• Choose parking spots further away than the norm. Make walking to your destination a game with your children by counting the number of steps from the car to your destination.

• Train as a family for an organized walk, run or bike ride. (See a list of the races in Cache Valley on the next page.)

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FOOT RACES: April 25th Family Fun Run – 10K, 5K, 1 Mile Childandfamilysupportcenter.org May 1 Take Back the Night CAPSA 5K & 1 mile walk Capsa5k.org May 9 Smithfield Health Days Fun Run10K, 5K and Mile run.

SmithfieldRecreation.com May 16 Gift of Hearing walk and 5k run www.soundbeginnings.usu.edu May 23 Cache Valley Color Vibe 5K www.thecolorvibe.com/cachevalley.php June 13 16 Crossings Trail Run (approx 12.4 miles) Smithfieldrecreation.com June 19-20 Wasatch Back Ragnar w w w . r a g n a r r e l a y. c o m / r a c e / wasatchback June 27 Logan Peak Trail Run (28 mi) Loganpeakrun.com

Cache Valley 2015 Foot & Bike Races

July 4 Blacksmith Fork Freedom Run 15K www.topofutahmarathon.com Lewiston Patriot Border Run www.patriotborderrun.com August 1 Logan Marathon Logan Marathon Relay Logan Half Marathon Logan 5k www.loganmarathon.com August 22 Top of Utah half marathon www.topofutahmarathon.com September 7 Wellsville Founders Day Fun Run 10K, 5K, Kids K wellsvillecity.com

September 19 Top of Utah Marathon Top of Utah Relay Top of Utah 5K www.topofutahmarathon.com September 25-26 Bear 100 mile endurance run www.bear100.com Mid- October Red Ribbon Run 5K, 1 Mile walk/run www.brhd.org October 31 First Dam Scary Run 5K & 10K www.topofutahmarathon.com November 21 Smithfield Turkey Trot 5K, 10K and 1 mile Smithfieldrecreation.com

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BIKE RACES: May 23 Little Red pre-ride www.bccutah.org www.littlered.kintera.org June 6 Little Red www.bccutah.org www.littlered.kintera.org June 7 Post Little Red Bear Lake Loop www.bccutah.org www.littlered.kintera.org June 27-28 Bike MS Ride www.bikeutu.nationalmssociety. org July 11 Cache Grand Fondo www.cachegrandfondo.com August 3-9 Tour of Utah www.tourofutah.com August 29 Cache Valley Century www.cachevalleycentury.com September 12 LOTOJA www.lotojaclassic.com

Their second business, The Trailhead, which opened this year, is an outdoor gear consignment store. “We designed that business around Cache Valley,” Wayne said. “We know people here like to get out and enjoy the outdoors, but sometimes that is hard to afford. So, as a consignment shop we offer two services: We help people sell their used gear and buy ‘new’ used gear. This way, they can afford to get out and do the things they enjoy.” The Trailhead like to get outside, whether it is going also offers rentals and service for skis, out to kick the ball or riding on the trail snowboards, snow shoes, bikes and near our home. After school, we just other outdoor sporting equipment. say, ‘Let’s get out and do something!’”

“We like to encourage our friends and Wayne agrees, and feels lucky to make customers to just get started,” Wayne a living doing something he enjoys and said. “Don’t be afraid if you’re out of can involve his family in. “It is a mix of shape or if you don’t have the right doing business, being active and fol- gear, there is a good place for everylowing passion,” he said. “It is a family one to start.” adventure everyday. Cory and I work together, and the boys enjoy spending Cory agrees, “Whether you have the time in the shop and look forward to fanciest bike, or just something with two wheels, just get out! We live in a working there someday.” great place to be active all year round.”

Wayne and Cory Wheeler, and their sons Finn and Miles enjoying getting outside and being active as a family.

Joyride Bikes, which the Wheelers have owned since 2011, is a family-focused bike shop. “We offer bikes for everybody, from entry-level to highend bikes,” Wayne said. “We focus on our service, and try to ensure our customers have a good experience.”

Visit cachevalleyfamilymagazine.com/family-fun/localadventures for lists of Cache Valley’s best parks and playgrounds, picnic locations and hike/bike trails.

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COPING WITH

DEATH Jody Davis, Cache Valley Mortuary

Sometimes, we experience losses that shake us to the With this hurt you may become angry, wanting to blame very core. We wonder how we can make it through, especially in the event of losing a child due to illness or accident. Some early emotions include shock, numbness, confusion, disbelief and denial. It has been said that these emotions serve as “cushions” against the full impact of our loss. Over time, these emotions may subside, but others, like guilt, anger, loneliness, regret, sadness or despair may come. The intensity of these feelings may be so strong that it is difficult to fully comprehend everything we are experiencing. It is vital not to attempt the journey alone. We need support to work through the myriad of emotions.

The aforementioned emotions are normal and natural.

Difficult, seemingly overwhelming and almost unbearable, but they are normal. So, how do we “normally” work through this grief? How do we embrace the fact that others have experienced what we have? And, how do we work through the highs and lows of this journey?

First, you need to realize that there will be peaks and valleys. The lasting effects of a loss last longer than society or those around us may recognize or appreciate.

Because everyone is different, each journey is unique in many ways, yet there common threads many experience with the loss of a child. There hope, peace and understanding can be found. It is important to learn to do what is right for you versus what is expected from others.

Another key is in realizing you will not “get over” it, but you can get through it with help, patience, time and support. Be patient with yourself and others. Everyone will be trying to make sense of it the experience in their own time and in their own way.

Many bereaved parents will, in their own way, attempt to work through feelings of guilt and regret. Many may feel they should or could have done more to prevent the loss. In sharing feelings, you can come to a place to forgive yourself or realize there was nothing you could have done to prevent your child’s death. It still hurts.

someone or even God. However, it has been stated that anger is a secondary emotion. Therefore, what is the first emotion? As we identify that “first” emotion, and work through it, we may turn anger from someone or something, to positive efforts to change laws, build foundations, raise money, fund scholarships and many other things to bring about positive changes to help others. This is healing, powerful and life changing. The greatest change will be within.

Through all of these changes we may still, at times, feel despair and loneliness. That is where support groups, family and understanding friends can help. Often, support groups provide us with comfort and insights from those who have experienced what we have. Initially, these groups may take you out of our comfort zones, but they can have an amazing effect on our lives for years to come.

In an attempt to find comfort, you may wish you could be with your child. That is a normal and natural desire.

However, if you begin to desire to take action on those feelings it is vital to get professional support immediately. Realize that your child would only want the best for your. They would want to make sure you are happy and safe.

Finally, as you work through this maze of emotions, you may experience physical or spiritual changes or challenges. If you allow yourself to discuss these changes and work through them, you will emerge healthier and happier in the long run. Some may wonder, “Will I ever be happy again?” “Will I ever sense that life is good again?” The pains you feel will soften. If you can tell your child’s story you may find healing in doing so, we will find peace and happiness again.

During this journey to healing, seek resources that are available to help guide you through this difficult time.

One such resource is The Compassionate Friends organization. You are not alone.

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#likeagirl We’ve all heard phrases like “you throw like a girl” or “you run like a girl.” Unfortunately these words come off at first as something negative. A recent television advertising campaign that challenges these innuendos left me thinking about what it means to me to be “like a girl.”

What do I value about being a girl? What do I want to instill in my daughters about confidence and loving themselves?

all these pressures, though, I realize something: None of them have anything to do with what I really value about being a girl.

Being “like a girl” actually has nothing to do with “how” you do something. It doesn’t matter how fast you run, how clean your house is or how many followers

you have on Instagram. Rather, it has

everything to do with “why” you do things. The reasons why we do things are important because, most of the time, the keagirl li reason why do something is because # l a c lo r of the way itwe makes us feel, makes other Join the & get a tee fo n irls people feel or the confidence it provides. campaig men & g

I don’t know about you, but I feel like there is much pressure on girls and women: Pressure to look a certain he wo way, to keep our homes peryou or t life. Shirts are at As women (wives, mothers, fectly clean and decorated, in your 15.99 shipped r $ o daughters, sisters, friends), we r o to have our kids dressed m f o available ectivelyyours.c .com. have the power to influence othin the most up-to-date oll ing .c h t w y w r e ers and create powerful change. w v trends and take the irt stdaye We have the ability to be tough, but www.be oceeds from sh most darling pictures fit All pr of them to share on to bene nings we can also be sensitive. o g s le a s social media, to blog, to conscree ’s health al Hospital. Being “like a girl” should never be n e tribute financially to the family, m o w Region an insult. It’s a compliment to the to make healthy meals for our t Logan a amazing things you are and can families and still make become. Let’s join together to it to the gym. The list goes on create stronger versions of ourselves, build each and on. other up and change the community and world Truth be told, these pressures

we live in for the better. can easily bring a mama down! As I think about

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Believe in yourself, be happy with yourself and love yourself, because that is what truly makes a strong, beautiful, influential girl.

Here’s to being #likeagirl!!

XOXO

Breanne

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Update on New Cache County High School

Bob Henke, principal Mountain Crest High School

Cache Valley continues to grow and the current high schools in the county have reached their maximum capacity.

A bond that includes building two new high schools was passed in November 2013. The opening of the high school in Millville will take place in Fall 2016 and has generated a lot of excitement. The progress of the new building is evident as you drive the highway from Logan to ward Hyrum.

The new school will open with approximately 1200 students grades nine through 12. The proposed boundary includes the communities of Providence, River Heights, Nibley, Millville and College/Young Ward. A school board meeting was held on March 5 to hear input from stakeholders about the boundaries;

the board will make a final decision soon.

Mountain Crest High School principal Robert Henke was appointed principal of the new school in February. He will finish the current school year at Mountain Crest and then focus his attention on the details of opening a new school.

The new configuration of having ninth graders in our high schools will allow those students more opportunities for participation in the variety of programs offered at the high school level.

Even though the schools will be smaller in number than the district’s current high schools, it is anticipated that courses and programs will still be available to all students by broadcasting classes be-

tween the schools. Also, with the exception of a swimming pool, the new school will have the same facilities as Mountain Crest High School.

Earlier this month, each home in the proposed boundary received a postcard inviting them to participate in naming the new high school, selecting the school colors and deciding on a mascot. Citizens were also invited to volunteer to serve on the School Community Council and/or PTA for the new school and to participate on selection committee to finalize the school name, mascot, and colors.

Bond project updates can be found on the Cache County School District website (www.ccsdut.org).

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Logan Schools Promote

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY Marshal Garrett, superintendent, Logan City School District

Physical activity for our students is a crucial part of our educational program in the Logan City School District.

Each elementary school has a physical education specialist who works with the students on healthy activities and teaches them how to play games. Students in each grade, Kindergarten through fifth, are taught specific skills from the Utah Core Curriculum that pertain to their specific needs. Students also have time to participate in outdoor activities during recess, which is held outside most of the year.

At the end of the year, the District sponsors the Fun Run, an activity for all fourth- and fifth-grade students. The students from all six of our elementary schools are bussed to Adams Park where they run around the block twice, making it a mile run. Students practice at their individual schools in order to prepare for the District run. Students from Logan High School assist and many run with the students to pace and encourage them. Prizes are given to those with the best times in both girls and boys divisions. District office workers volunteer to make ensure all of the students are safe and have a positive experience.

This event is held each May. Many elementary schools hold their own runs in preparation for the District run.

During the last week of school, Mount Logan Middle School holds a biathlon for their students who have done well in citizenship areas throughout the year. This is held at the Logan outdoor pool and surrounding area. The students have a great time competing with each other in multiple events.

During the school year, all students take physical education courses and are encouraged to involve themselves in intramural activities sponsored by the school. Students are continuously encouraged to become involved and active.

Students at the high school level are encouraged to become involved in after-school physical activities, from clubs or school-sponsored sports programs. Physical education classes are encouraged to develop lifelong skills and interests in activities so students do not become too sedentary.

Involvement in sports programs outside of school is also encouraged.

By working together as a community, we will be able to keep options open for our youth to keep active and participate in physical activities that will benefit them for many years to come.

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Smart Irrigation = Healthy, Beautiful, Landscapes:

Save Money and Water!

With Spring and Summer right around the corner, Cache Valley is sure to start heating up. Now is the time to make a few preparations to make sure your yard stays looking great, and in turn helping you save water and money.

Jared Gillman, co-owner A&D Landscaping

July and August where two inches of water per week is more appropriate.

Make Repairs and Adjustment to Your Existing Irrigation System and Upgrade Your Sprinklers to More Water-Efficient Heads

Plant the Right Plants with Proper Landscape Thoroughly check your sprinklers in the Spring. Look for broken nozzles, leaking heads, leaking valves and non-uniDesign and Irrigation.

Whether you are putting in a new landscape or slowly changing the current landscaping of your home, select plants that are appropriate for your local climate conditions. Having a yard with 100 percent lawn area in a dry desert climate requires significant amounts of water. Consider the trend toward Xeriscape™ (low-water use landscapes).

Some landscape elements to help you accomplish this include outdoor hardscapes which include pavers patios and walks, outdoor kitchens and fireplaces; rockscapes; large low-water plant beds; unique stone ground covers; sand volleyball courts; mulched playgrounds; and more natural landscaped areas. Spend a little time learning more about these unique landscape options and popular new trends.

form head-spray patterns. Make sure your sprinkler spray patterns are overlapping one another by ten to 15 percent.

This will create better uniformity and ensure shorter run times. Consult with local irrigation supply companies and contractors to replace your sprinklers with new heads that provide greater efficiency and uniformity to reduce water use and runoff. Many heads have been made available in the last five to ten years that can provide water savings of as much as 20 to 30 percent.

Consider one of the many new smart controllers that are becoming commonplace.

You may consider installing a weather-adjusting ET/Smart irrigation controller. These controllers automatically save water by not watering when the plants don’t need water.

Water Only What Your Plants Need Most water is wasted by watering when your plants do These controllers take the guess work out of watering. not need the water. Be attentive if you are setting your Many use hyper-local weather data to learn how much waown irrigation timer with seasonal watering adjustments. ter your yard needs. This is done based on real-time precipMost water that is wasted in Utah is done in the cooler itation, humidity, temperature, wind, solar radiation, slope months of Spring and Fall. As the temperature begins to and soil condition — they intelligently adjust so you don’t warm controllers are turned on to the settings previously have to. These controllers quite often save 20 to 40 perset for the hottest part of summer. Many times they are cent of the water used by your sprinkler system annually also commonly left on during cooler fall months, when and cost as little as $250 to $450 for the controller. You can cutting back should be occurring as the landscape does also monitor or adjust them at any time from your smartnot need nearly as much water. A half-inch to three-qua- phone or computer. Check with your local water providers ter-inch of water per week is sufficient in the early Spring to find ET/Smart controllers available in your area. and in the late Fall as opposed to the warm months of

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For more information please visit our website adlandscapes.com or give us a call (435)755-9769

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PORNPROOFING YOUR FAMILY

Jenny Mathews, contributing writer

Let’s be honest, to REALLY “Porn-Proof” your family, you’d have to move them to the moon, leaving the Internet behind altogether. Pornography is everywhere online, and so is a growing wealth of research proving its dangers. Pornography addiction damages brains, relationships, families and society as a whole.

Being proactive will give your family the best chance of becoming “Porn-Proof.”

When I was a child, my siblings and I found some old dirty magazines hidden in the home we had just moved in to. While it was a bit of a shock, the magazines were quickly disposed of and that was about it. Pornography today is quite a bit different than a hidden dirty magazine. Here are some reasons why: •

• •

Unlimited sources of free porn online, increased ease and frequency of “stumbling upon” pornography Occasionally viewing “porn” is less taboo in today’s society Hardcore pornography is also easier to access

Take heart parents! Along with the negative, comes the positive: •

•

We have more resources than ever to support our efforts to restrict and protect our children: Research results, websites, articles, journals and testimonials, helpful Internetsafety tools, apps, software, etc. are all on the rise People are talking about it! While the subject is still somewhat intimidating, there’s no doubt people are talking, posting, emailing, wearing wristbands and t-shirts

Cache Valley Family Magazine readers submitted questions online, and we asked local experts/professionals to help us answer them:

“What are some good tools and apps that we can use to keep our kids safe from pornography online?”

Greg Ellis at Expercom suggests: “Parents need to know more about devices and Internet settings than their kids. Educate yourself to protect your family. First, check out OpenDNS. It’s a filter that goes on your router, so it protects every device in your home. Plus, it’s free for home users.

On your Mac, create a separate user account for the kids. Turn on parental controls for that user to limit the websites they can visit, people they can text or email and even how long they can use the computer. For iPhones and iPads, turn on Restrictions in the Settings app, then disable the standard web browser and YouTube apps. Replace those apps with a filtered app. Use K9 Web Protection for the web and YouTube Kids.”

“What is a good time/age to start talking to your children about pornography?”

Dr. Barrett P. Labrum, D.O. (Primary Care Pediatrics) said:

“The easy answer to this is if they are old enough to be on a computer, they should be taught and warned about the dangers. But it is more complicated than this. Talking about sex and sexuality should start very early. It is important for your toddler-age child to have healthy discussions about appropriate touching and about their own private parts. They should feel comfortable talking to you about these things and this dialogue should be ongoing, in an age-appropriate nature, until they are no longer living in your home,and for some even later. As they approach grade school and begin to be exposed to inappropriate material, they should already have a plan of action to get rid of the material and should feel comfortable talking to you about what they saw. When it comes to teaching your children about sex and sexuality, keeping an open dialogue beginning at a very young age allows your child to learn the positive aspects of sexuality before they are bombarded with the negative and counterfeit ideas.”

What should you do if your child has already been exposed to or is already addicted to pornography?

Focusonthefamily.com suggests: 1. Evaluate what precautions and signs were missed and take ownership as a parent. Types of media allowed, lack of restrictions/supervision/discipline, lack of appropriate and thorough sex education?

2. Is there any possibility of sexual abuse? Examine the possibility of this sad reality.

3. Prepare yourself by reading as much as you can. How you react will likely determine how effective your intervention will be.

4. Gauge your expectations. There will most likely be denial, blame, aggression and shame.

5. Set boundaries and accountability measures with obvious guidelines and consequences.

6. Follow up and follow through!

7. Safeguard other children.

8. Seek the help of trustworthy mentors, counselors, religious leaders, etc.

For additional helpful information, we suggest the following sources: www.fightthenewdrug.org www.pornproofkids.com

Links for the apps: Open DNS (not really an App, but a service for your router): http://bit.ly/1Gz6AS8 OS X Parental Controls: http://support.apple.com/kb/VI28 K9 Protection: http://apple.co/1deIrDz YouTube for Kids: http://apple.co/1zDnpqn

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N.Y.C.

OR BUST

Tara Bone, contributing writer

Summer is just around the corner. As you make summer plans, consider taking your family to a metropolitan area. Perhaps you have family living in a city and have frequent flyer miles waiting to be used. Metropolitan areas provide unique opportunities for kids to learn more about the world and themselves. Last year our family with three boys, ages 10, 8 and 4, experienced New York City (NYC) for the first time together.

My adventures in the Big Apple began 13 years ago. To say I was overwhelmed on that first trip is an understatement, but I channeled my inner Mary Tyler Moore and got to know the city during subsequent visits. Traveling there recently with my boys took some know-how, and, as a New Yorker looked at me with bewilderment and said, “three boys?” I knew I had to be brave.

If this frugal Idaho girl with three boys can do a successful NYC trip, so can you.

Why take kids to NYC, or any big city?

If you want your children to experience history, culture, art, music, theater and architecture, then a city like NYC is the place to explore. I was surprised before our trip when people asked, “Won’t the kids get bored there?” and, “Aren’t you worried about what they’ll see?” You may get these questions too, but don’t be intimidated by them. First of all, there is something for every child in a city if you know where to go, and, second, whining is nothing a well-stocked backpack can’t handle.

The second question got me thinking. Sooner than I’d like, my

Big Apple Travel Tips You can do a New York City (NYC) Family Vacation. There is so much to experience in the Big Apple.

Accommodations:

For serious bargains, look for rooms in non-trendy parts of Manhattan like East Midtown, or across the Hudson River in New Jersey.

Entertainment:

If there’s a show you have to see and don’t want to gamble seat availability the day of the show, purchase tickets online in advance or check out BroadwayBox.com.

What to Pack:

Pack layers, even if it’s May and you think it’ll be warm. The

sons will go out into the world on their own. I want them to appreciate the world’s diversity and not be afraid of it or the sheer chaos of it all. Let’s face it, even though we love our chickens and goats at home, there’s not a whole lot going on. Knowing there’s a big world out there helps them put day-to-day set backs into perspective. Seeing that, unfortunately, not everyone has a warm place to sleep, helps them feel the need to reach out and help others.

You really don’t know what you’ll see in a city of millions of people. Prepare your kids for things they don’t typically see in Cache Valley. You may run into the singing cowboy in Times Square who wears nothing but cowboy boots, tighty-whities and a guitar, but look at the adventure as an opportunity to talk about your family’s values and how to respect others. I should say here that we didn’t see anything traumatizing in The Big Apple; it was a trip of a lifetime! skyscrapers provide perfect wind tunnels and sun blockers.

Unless it’s the blazing summer, pack hats, scarves and gloves.

Getting Around:

If you see a public bathroom , use it! Good stops: M & M in Times Square or a McDonalds (ice cream cones make a great treat).

Favorite Navigation Apps: Citymapper, shows where you’re at in the City and how

to get to your goal destination via walking or public transportation.

New York Subway MTA Map and Route Planner Uber, request and get a taxi in minutes

Want to read more NYC Travel Tips from Tara?

Visit our website: cachevalleyfamilymagazine.com

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SUN HAZARDS IN YOUR CAR

BLOCK UV RAYS WHILE DRIVING TO PROTECT YOUR FAMILY’S SKIN Lane Jones, Logan Glass

For the first time ever the US Surgeon General came out with a warning to the public about ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

With melanoma cases almost tripling over the last 30 years, it is becoming more and more important to shield yourself from UV rays. The good news is that there are ways to reduce your UV exposure.

According to Arbitron’s 2009 National In-car study, Americans spend almost 20 hours driving their cars each week, traveling more than 200 miles. Much of this time is during the day when UV rays can come in through vehicle windows. The Skin Cancer Foundation concluded that drivers in the United States receive six times the dose of UV radiation on the left side of their heads, necks, arms and hands as the right side. The Foundation suggested tinting vehicle windows to block 99.9 percent of these UV rays. It was also noted that tinting windows in the home can also help reduce UV exposure.

Dermatologists are also recommending UV protection film. Just as you use sunblock as a skin protectant when visiting the beach, UV film serves as a film protectant when you drive in your car. The right tinting can be like wearing 1000 SPF lotion.

Some tips on choosing the right tint and tint shop: • Make sure the film blocks 99.9 percent of UV rays

• The shop you choose should offer some type of film warranty against turning purple, bubbling and peeling • Don’t be fooled by discounted prices as they be signs of the use of inferior film • Make sure the company is reputable and will still be in business years later, should you need to use your warranty • Be aware that there are some tinting laws in Utah.

A good tint shop can help you conform to those standards • Ask for film that won’t interfere with your vehicle’s radio antennas (some do!)

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an end to

BULLYING Hillary Anderson, Good Touch Bad Touch Supervisor Child and Family Support Center

I recently addressed the topic of bullying to a fifth-grade class. When asked to describe the typical bully, the students quickly created a very stereotypical image of a physically intimidating male student beating up a smaller student. While this is considered bullying, it’s vital for children to know that bullying behaviors can be much more Before we begin to tackle the bully di- complex and varied than the “historilemma, we must understand what bul- cal stereotypes” that tend to come to lying truly is. Can we put the student mind. who is jabbed in the back because of a drinking fountain pile-up on the same The following are strategies both parseverity level as the one repeatedly ents and children can use to prevent mocked in front of peers? Research bullying: concludes that bullying has three maCreate an Action Plan jor components to it: When it comes to parenting, commu• An intentional act nication always plays a role in its suc• A form of power imbalance cess, and bully prevention is no differ• Repeated over time The topic of bullying seems to be addressed often enough on a national level that we’re no longer shocked to hear it. But as soon as it reaches us on a personal level: A neighbor, relative or even our own child we quickly realize the detrimental effects it has on an innocent youth.

ent. Take the time to talk to your kids daily, and really pay attention. Practice appropriate verbal responses or “oneliners” that can be used if being bullied.

Focus on Strengths: The Fog Tank Using the strength of a child’s imagination, help them create the fog tank visual. Imagine being inside a huge fish tank filled with white fog. Then imagine the insults being swallowed up by the fog before they can reach you. No negative thing can touch you, and therefore they cannot affect your self-worth.

Stop, Walk, Talk A nationwide publication, Bully Prevention in Positive Behavior Support, said these simple and progressive steps guide children through a positive approach to deal with bullying.

Concentrate on the Bystander Power Statistics show that if just one child is willing to stand up for the victim, 60 percent of bullying would stop. Help children understand that one person can make a ripple, but several make a wave. Working as a united front is the only way to eliminate this problem.

Adult Intervention Always let a child know that turning to an adult for guidance does not make them a tattletale. With bullying, children have this unwritten code of silence that is developed through fear.

Let them know that telling is always an appropriate response.

Congressman Michael Honda once said, “Everyone in America likely has a bullying story, whether as the victim, bully or as a witness.” Let us close this story on a positive note with the elimination of bullying.

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Camps & Classes 4-H Aggie Adventure Camps

Cache County 4-H, June 1 through July 31. Call 435.752.6263 or register online at extension.usu.edu/cache Aggie Adventure Camps for Kids provide a variety of fun hands-on exploration of science, technology, environment and the world around us.

435.215.5050 www.awhc.org Our exciting summer camps give incoming first- through sixth-grad students an historic summer experience they will not forget. Both four-day and one-day camps offer learning experiences with farm animals, hand carts and much more! Four-day and one-day camps run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Camps include Life on the Farm, Hot Shots (shooting sports safety), Little House on the Valley, Fishing Camp and Animal Camp. Space is limited.

Cache Children’s Choir American West Heritage Center

435.752.6260 cachechildrenschoir.org/ Cache Children’s Choir provides quality music education for the youth of Cache Valley in three levels of choirs (ages 8-16) and two levels of early childhood classes (ages 3-7). Summer camps in

June; choir auditions and placement May through August. Call to register or for more information.

Cache Valley Center for the Arts 435.752.0026 www.cachearts.org 43 South Main, Logan Offering a variety of summer classes including basic art, painting, ceramics, photography, theater, dance, magic and music for children of all ages.

Cache Valley Civic Ballet

435.753.3633 opt. 1 admin@cvcballet.org www.cvcballet.org 290 North 400 East, Logan Summer Semester (5 weeks): June 15-July 17 for ages 4 and up. Visit our website for complete list of classes. The Cache Valley School of Ballet offers qualified training in classical ballet to members of the community of all ages and all skill levels.

Cache Valley Fun Park

435.792.4000 www.cachevalleyfunpark.com/summercamp One-week summer camps for children ages 4-18, June through August. Camps include instruction in bowling, roller skating and billiards, as well as open play.

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Highpoint Gymnastics

Play With Me Music

435.753.7500 www.sportsacademy.com Ongoing, year-round classes for toddlers through competitive teams.

LaShars Dance Studio 435.753.4900 www.lashars.com 50 East 700 North, Logan Summer classes and Performing Teams for all ages start June 8. Combination classes for beginners (ballet, jazz, tap, tumbling). Specialty classes in hip hop, tumbling, princess dance workshops, technique and musical theatre. Fun performing opportunities! A great way to stay fit, improve your skills and add some excitement to your summer. Over 45 years serving Cache Valley. Register today!

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since 1985. Affordable classes, individual attention for students to learn in a fun, friendly environment.

Youth Conservatory 435.563.6543 www.playwithmemusic.com Music Train Preschool summer classes are taught Wednesdays from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. $10 per class. Crafts, music, outside play, reading, math, weather and calendar. Call Heather or visit www. overlymusical.com for registration.

Rhythm Connection Dance School

435.797.3018 www.usu.edu/ycpiano Summer, Fall and Spring semester classes and lessons available. Piano lessons and musicianship classes for ages six month to 18 years. Tuition starts at $35/month. Early registration encouraged; space is limited.

435.764.8609 www.rhythmconnectiondance.com Summer Technique Class Registration June 16; Fall Class Registration August 4-12. Teaching ballet, jazz and hip-hop

Kids

For details call (435) 753-0813 or visit www.MegaplexTheatres.com/KidsMovies

Register now!

Cache Children’s Choir Summer Music Camp 2015 Do you like to sing and play instruments?

Make new friends? Like to perform?

Summer Camp – June 15-19 (ages 8-12) • • • •

Edith Bowen Lab School; 9:00 am – 12 noon daily Performance for family and friends: June 19, 11 am Multi-cultural music: singing, instruments, stories Cost: $60; faculty from CCC Artistic Staff

CCC Spring Concert (3 choirs, ages 8-15) Wednesday, May 6, 7:00 pm St. John’s Episcopal Church, Logan CCC Spring Sharing (early childhood classes) Thursday, May 7, 7:00 pm Edith Bowen Lab School Auditorium

For more info:

Gaylene Merrill 435.752.6260

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THERE’S SOMETHING NEW IN THE AIR:

MountainStar Offers AirCare

Emily Buckley, editor-in-chief

Cache Valley residents against time for people in can rest a little easier knowing that MountainStar Healthcare has expanded its emergency medical services to include AirCare medical transport. The services aim to ensure the delivery of high quality care for its patients during air medical transport.

remote or rural locations who have traumatic injuries or are critically ill.

“Our goal is to extend the quality care we provide to include the time it takes to airlift patients to one of our trauma centers or acute care hospitals,” says Greg Angle, president, MountainStar Healthcare. “In this way, we can provide a more seamless continuum-ofcare for patients based on proven medical standards that contribute to the best outcomes possible.”

AirCare offers a unique membership program. For $50 (for those with insurance) or $80 (for uninsured individuals) a year, an individual can cover the cost of medical transport should they or any of their dependents need it.

The new AirCare services include two new, bright yellow Airbus AS350 helicopters. This specific model is one of the best high-altitude performing helicopters and was the first production aircraft to make a successful landing on Mount Everest.

This makes them ideal for our mountainous state and level of outdoor recreations because they can reach locations other aircraft cannot and transport heavier patients during the hot summer months. The helicopter’s capabilities combined with flight crews with rural experience will improve the odds in the race

AirCare services began March 2 across Utah, with one of the Airbuses dedicated to the northern part of the state, including Cache Valley.

For more information visit http://mountainstar.com/ campaigns/air-care/.

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Emergency Room Info:

Cachevalleyhospital.com/ER

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Proud to be part of your community.

Why Wait? When you need emergency care, our board-certified ER physicians will see you right away.

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2380 N. 400 E. North Logan, Utah

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Our New Office Will Be Opening in may!

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We Can’t Wait to Show You What’s Inside!

Photos by: Convincing Image Photography • www.convincingimage.com