Cache Valley Family Magazine Summer 2020

SUMMER 2020

SPECIAL EDITION

t r a p a n e v e — r e h t e g o stronger t

CHILD NUTRITION WORKER

NONPROFIT DIRECTOR

NURSE

RESTAURATEUR

Lori Hoffman, child nutrition manager Birch Creek Elementary

Jill Anderson, executive director CAPSA

Missy Best, RN Intermountain Healthcare

Justin Hamilton, restaurateur

GROCERY WORKER

TEACHER

POLICE OFFICER

HEALTH DEPARTMENT

TJ Pitcher, online manager Lee's Marketplace

Laura Hackwell, teacher of the year Cache County School District

Josh Preece, trooper Utah Highway Patrol

Mandi McBrie, nursing director, and Angie White, emergency response coordinator Bear River Health Department

NURSE

BUSINESS OWNERS

SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS

TEACHER

Derek Mcleod, RN Cache Valley Hospital

Jeff Jackson and Justin Cooper, owners Visionary Homes

Valerie Hansen and Melanie Peterson, bus drivers Cache County School District

Kathy Sherman, teacher of the year Logan City School District

2 | Summer 2020

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features: • Current and past issues of Cache Valley Family Magazine.

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Best of Cache Valley Awards

2020

Cache Valley Family Magazine invites you to nominate your favorite local establishments for the 2020 Best of Cache Valley Awards. This is your chance to celebrate the best businesses and services in our community. Voting is open May 25 through August 7.

Winners will be announced in the Fall 2020 issue of Cache Valley Family Magazine.

Outstanding Service Award

Best Grocery Store

Best Breakfast

Best Pediatrician

Best Lunch

Best Family Doctor

Best Dinner

Best Dentist

Best Burger

Best Pediatric Dentist

Best Fast Food

Best Orthodontist

Best Food Truck

Best Obstetrician

Best Children's Photographer

Best Pizza

Best Chiropractor

Best Wedding Photographer

Best Dessert

Best Family Entertainment

Best Little Kid Entertainment

Best Ethnic Food

Best Date Night Venue

Best Big Kid Entertainment

Best Bakery

Best Summer Camp

Best Birthday Party Venue

Best Ice Cream Shop

Best Sports Camp

Best Rainy Day Fun

Best Salon/Spa

Best Music Program

Best Adult Apparel

Best Barbershop

Best Children's Play Place

Best Home Decor

Best Health and Fitness Center

Best Preschool

Best Children's Store

Best Childcare Center

Best Furniture Store

Best Pet Care

Best Annual Local Event

Best Dance Studio

Best Sporting Goods Store

Best Event Venue

Best Realtor

Best Customer Service — Dining

Best Caterer

Best Home Builder

Best Gymnastics/Tumbling Program

Best Home Repair/Home Service Best Carpet Cleaner Best Auto Service Best Car Sales Best Family Photographer

Best Customer Service — Retail

vote today online at

CACHEVALLEYFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM

4 | Summer 2020

Publisher & Editor in Chief EMILY BUCKLEY Copy Editor TARA BONE Photography HEATHER PALMER Layout Design RACHEL COTTRELL Illustration @ELISECREATES Website Design KITE MEDIA Contributing Writers CHERYL ATWOOD TARA BONE EMILY BUCKLEY CACHE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT SHAUN KLOMP LOGAN REGIONAL HOSPITAL KATHY MCCONKIE EMILY MERKLEY KATE NEELEY BLAKE OSTLER

letter from the editor Although the coronavirus crisis has brought much heartache and struggle for people around the world, it also seems to be bringing out the best of humanity in thousands of ways.

We are all first responders in this crisis.

COVID-19, aka the coronavirus, stopped the world in its tracks and forced most of us into self-quarantine while we were bogged down with constant news updates reporting the global death toll, the number of new cases each day, and the demise of our booming economy. Of this be sure, these are tough times.

But when times get tough, people do amazing things.

Through uncertainty and fear, celebrities have donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to feed the hungry and big businesses and philanthropists have donated hundreds of millions of dollars to fight the virus.

Closer to home, people have stepped up and come together offering heartwarming acts of kindness, families have had more dinners and meaningful conversations than ever before, teachers have gone the extra mile to create connection and security for their students, parents have become teachers, neighbors have provided for each other and food drives have been wildly supported, small business owners have chosen community over competition, and businesses have provided free or discounted services to those in need.

This entire Special Edition of Cache Valley Family Magazine is dedicated to honoring local businesses and services that have stepped up to help our community make it through this crisis. We truly are stronger together — even when we’ve had to be apart.

I have never been more grateful or proud to be a Cache Valley resident. There truly is no place like home.

With hope for the future,

Emily

FRANK SCHOFIELD

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 2020, 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 Number (435) 764-0962 Mailing Address PO BOX 6831 NORTH LOGAN, UT 84341 Email INFO@CACHEVALLEYFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM Website CACHEVALLEYFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM Facebook /CACHEVALLEYFAMILYMAGAZINE YouTube /CACHEVALLEYFAMILYMAG Instagram @CACHEVALLEYFAMILYMAG To Advertise CALL (435) 764-0962 OR EMAIL ADS@CACHEVALLEYFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM

SPONSORS FOR THIS ISSUE

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contents 42 • Lee's Plumbing: A Look at Some of Cache Valley's Unsung Heroes 7 • Helping Children Be Courageous in the Face of 44 • Frontline Heroes: A Passing Doctor Helps Uncertainty with a Surprise Parking Lot Delivery 8 • Advanced Surgery Center of Northern Utah 46 • Love to Cook Owners Choose Hope Over Offering Patients an Alternative to In-patient Fear Care 48 • Lynn's Audio: More Than 60 Years of 10 • Gardening is Not Canceled Expertise 12 • COVID-19 and People With Disabilities 50 • Num Gourmet Desserts: Taking the Guilt 14 • The Book Table: Where Your Story Begins Out of Treating Yourself 16 • 10 Ways to Add Instant Curb Appeal to Your 52 • Old Grist Mill's Simple Niche Home This Summer 54 • Palmer Home Furniture Guarantees the 18 • The Cache Valley Fun Park Invites Families Lowest Furniture Prices in Cache Valley to Come Back and Have Some Fun 56 • Beauty School Educates and Serves 20 • Cache Valley Restaurants Co-op to Offer Community Delivery and Take-out During Shutdown 58 • Rocky Mountain Dermatology Welcomes 22 • Local Organization Provides Help as Mohs Surgeon Jared Heaton, DO Domestic Abuse Cases in Cache Valley Increase 60 • Thomson Family Orthodontics Gives During Pandemic Teachers New Smiles 24 • The Year of the Camper 62 • Pediatricians Continue Top Medical Care 26 • When Eye Care Becomes "I Care" and Warn of Anxiety, Depression, and Loneliness 28 • Citrus Pear Dinners: Comfort Food for Among Young Patients During Pandemic Uncertain Times 64 • Visionary Homes Continues to Look to the 30 • The Show Must Go On: Dance Illusion Future Instructs in a Whole New Way Amid Pandemic 66 • Dentistry with a Side of Empathy 32 • When a Family Business Means More 68 • Wilson Motor Has Made Car Buying Easy 34 • Bringing Home to Cache Valley for 77 Years and Counting 36 • Four Seasons Theatre Company Looks 70 • Cache Valley Women’s Center at the Lodge: Forward to a Return to the Stage Stable Quality Care in Every Season of Life 38 • The Joint Chiropractic to Open in Logan 72 • When the World Changed — Again This Summer 74 • Navigating the Market Through a Pandemic 40 • Heroes in our Neighborhood Grocery Stores 75 • The Spence's Pharmacy Story 6 • Looking for an Adventure this Summer?

6 | Summer 2020

Looking for an adventure this summer?

Summer of the Monkeys

by Wilson Rawls

Even if your family's summer plans don't take your child to a new or exotic location, a good book can be a portal to adventure. Discovering a new place or stepping into a different time will help to engage their interest and broaden their horizons.

Here are a few suggestions of exciting adventure books to read this summer with your child, from educators in our district!

Jay Berry, the son of poor farmers, finds out he has a chance to make some real money by catching a group of monkeys that have escaped from a traveling circus.

Jay, alongside his trusty dog Rowdy, set off to the river bottoms to catch the monkeys and make their fortune.

Cam Amott 6th Grade teacher at Greenville Elementary

The Lightning Thief

by Rick Riordan

Hatchet

by Gary Paulson

Percy Jackson, a courageous 12-year-old, is thrown into an adventure of Greek mythology and a world that always existed around him, but that he can only now see. He's also a target, being accused of stealing Zeus' prized lightning bolt. To prove his innocence and save his friends, he must find the lightning bolt and return it to Mount Olympus.

Aimee McNeil Principal at Summit Elementary

Kids will love reading this book because it will open their imaginations to a new world of demigods, legends of mythology, unique characters, and mythical creatures. There are narrow escapes, shocking surprises, and steady suspense. What's even better is that the adventure doesn't have to be over when The Lightning Thief ends! Check out the rest of the series to keep the adventure going!

Where the Red Fern Grows

by Wilson Rawls

Richard Rigby 5th Grade teacher at Birch Creek Elementary

For a long time, Billy Coleman has dreamed of owning not one, but two dogs. When his mother and father tell him that he can't have a dog because they don't have money, he doesn't give up. He is resilient and works hard to collect the money. He finally buys two pups: Little Ann and Old Dan. Together, Billy and his dogs quickly become the finest hunting team in the Ozarks. They hunt at night and in the winter--which leads to some dangerous and scary predicaments.

Kids will love reading this book because it allows them to envision the outdoors, the love of animals, and the sacrifice that comes from hard work and determination. It takes readers to a time when there weren't a lot of things to do but to be outside and explore.

Kids will love this book because it will make them want to have an exciting summer adventure that they will remember for the rest of their lives. It shows that what might be considered a boring setting (a little farm) can turn into a really exciting place in the blink of an eye. I always put myself in Jay's shoes and try coming up with the best way to catch a bunch of monkeys. It's a fun, funny, and touching story that is sure to be a new favorite.

Thirteen-year-old Brian Robeson was on his way to visit his dad when the plane he was flying in crashed into a vast forest. Brian is the only survivor! With nothing but the clothes on his back and a hatchet on his belt, he must figure out how to survive on his own and, hopefully, be rescued.

Paige Hollie 4th Grade teacher at Providence Elementary

This book takes readers on a great adventure in a huge forest with no one around. The forest, which is found near the US Canadian border with New York, consists of hills and mountains covered in trees as far as the eye can see, with little lakes dotting the landscape. The amount of exploring that could be done is endless!

Kids will love reading this book because the adventure never ends!

“Reading can take you places you have never been before.”

-Dr. Seuss

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HELPING CHILDREN be COURAGEOUS in the FACE of UNCERTAINTY written by FRANK SCHOFIELD,

superintendent, Logan City School District

I

do not like being scared. I have never enjoyed haunted houses or scary movies, and as my children grow older, they are beginning to capitalize on that. For example, my 11-year-old daughter will try to scare me by jumping out from around a corner as I walk through the house.

In moments when you do catch yourself feeling anxious, try to avoid talking about your concerns within earshot of children. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, step away and take a break. That could look like taking a shower or going outside and taking a few deep breaths.

Some of us enjoy the rush of adrenaline that comes from being momentarily frightened by a story or experience. Few of us, however, enjoy the feelings of fear that are caused by uncertainty.

Stay in touch virtually

Regrettably, the realities of the current COVID-19 pandemic have created these situations of disruption for many families. Many children are experiencing levels of disruption and uncertainty significantly beyond what they are used to, and that uncertainty can lead to anxiety and fear.

Fortunately, there are actions parents and caregivers can take to help students both minimize and manage those fears. Some suggestions from the clinicians and experts at the Child Mind Institute (childmind.org) include:

Keep routines in place Experts agree that as much as possible, setting and sticking to a regular schedule is key, even when you’re all at home all day. Kids should get up, eat, and go to bed at their normal times. Consistency and structure are calming during times of stress. Kids, especially younger ones or those who are anxious, benefit from knowing what’s going to happen and when.

Be creative about new activities — and exercise Incorporate new activities into your routine, like doing a puzzle or having family game time in the evening. Build-in activities that help everyone get some exercise (without contact with other kids or things touched by other kids, like playground equipment). Take a daily family walk or bike ride or do yoga — these are great ways to let kids burn off energy and make sure everyone is staying active.

Manage your own anxiety

Keep your support network strong, even when you’re only able to call or text friends and family. Socializing plays an important role in regulating your mood and helping you stay grounded. The same is true for your children.

Let children use social media (within reason) and Skype or FaceTime to stay connected to peers even if they aren’t usually allowed to do so. Communication can help all of us feel less alone.

Make plans In the face of events that are scary and largely out of our control, it’s important to be proactive about what we can control. Making plans helps us visualize the near future. How can my children have virtual playdates? What can my family do that would be fun outside? What are favorite foods you can cook during this time? Make lists that children can add to.

Sometimes the path of least resistance is the right path Remember to be reasonable and kind to yourself. We all want to be our best parenting selves as much as we can, but sometimes that best self is the one that says, “Go for it,” when a child asks for more time on the iPad. My son and I are watching Avatar: The Last Airbender together, and it has provided some positive bonding time for us.

Accept and ask for help If you have a partner at home, agree that you’ll trade-off when it comes to childcare.

Especially if one or both of you are working from home and have younger children.

It’s completely understandable to be anxious right now, but how adults manage anxiety has a big impact on children. Keeping our own worries in check will help our families navigate this uncertain situation as easily as possible.

Everyone who can pitch in should. Give children age-appropriate jobs. For example, teens might be able to help mind younger siblings when both parents have to work. Most children can set the table, help keep communal spaces clean, do dishes, or take out the trash. Even toddlers can learn to pick up their own toys.

“Watch out for catastrophic thinking,” Mark Reinecke, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist with the Child Mind Institute, said. For example, assuming every cough is a sign you’ve been infected, or reading news stories that dwell on worstcase scenarios. “Keep a sense of perspective, engage in solution-focused thinking, and balance this with mindful acceptance.”

The events of COVID-19 have been disruptive for all of us. The fears that that disruption creates can lead to anxiety and depression. As adults take steps to help children manage these fears, children will be better prepared to face new challenges as they arise and be ready to adjust to whatever “new now” we all are required to face.

8 | Summer 2020

A DVA N CE D SU R G E R Y C E NTER OF NORTHERN UTAH

Offering Patients an Alternative to In-Patient Care written by EMILY BUCKLEY,

A

dvanced Surgery Center of Northern Utah (ASCNU) is a an accredited ambulatory surgery center (ASC) located in Cache Valley. It opened over a year and a half ago to give patients an alternative to hospital admission for same-day surgery procedures, including total joint replacements and spinal fusions.

Patients who choose to have surgery at ASCNU arrive on the day of their procedure, have their surgery in a fully equipped operating room and recover under the care of highly skilled nurses, all without hospital admission. “Since we do not have the overhead of a hospital, we are able to perform procedures at the same high level of care, with the same specialized attention, but at a lower cost,” Marielle Whitlock, RN, ASCNU’s administrator and director of nursing, said. “We also offer cash pricing for all procedures.”

The center provides patient registration, waiting rooms, surgical suites, and recovery rooms all in one convenient location.

ASCNU’s physicians cover a wide range of specialties including back and spine, podiatry, orthopedics, pain management, and hand surgery.

“Anyone can contact our physicians at their Alpine Orthopedic Specialists offices,” Marielle said. “There, they can help address your health concerns and determine if surgery is needed.

Alternatively, if you are seen by one of our physicians in the emergency room, you can also choose to have your procedure performed at our facility.”

editor in chief

ASCNU’s staff works closely with physical therapy to help total joint replacement patients experience a successful recovery.

“Physical therapists visit total joint replacement patients at the center before they are discharged,” Marielle said. “They will also visit patients in the convenience of their own homes as part of their after-care plan. We aim to give patients the resources and tools for a safe and comfortable recovery from every procedure.”

The center is up to date with the latest and most efficient medical equipment. “Our physicians, anesthesiologists, nurses, and surgical technicians are specially trained in surgery and recovery to provide you with the best care and outcome,” Marielle said. “Our number one priority is to keep our patients and community safe. We see surgical patients only. Therefore, there is a much lower opportunity to become ill from another patient. We take pride in our center’s low infection rate. We guarantee our center will offer you a safe and clean environment.”

BRENT A FELIX, MD back and spine

SPENCER B HENINGER, DPM podiatry

Another thing that sets ASCNU apart is its dedicated focus on scheduled patients. “Our specialty is surgery and our focus is on our patients scheduled for that day. This means fewer delays and less waiting,” Marielle said. “Unlike at a hospital, you will not have your surgery delayed because of non-related emergent procedures.

Knowing our schedule in advance allows us to staff appropriately to give you an increased level of attention and ensure quality, personal care. We know surgery can cause stress and anxiety. Our highest goal is to give you the best experience possible from start to finish.”

GREGORY J HICKEN, MD orthopedics

AMMON A HILLS, DO pain management

DAVID M ROWLEY, MD orthopedics

JACOB PUGSLEY, DO pain management

ERIK PETERSON, MD hand surgery

KEITH J NELSON, MD orthopedics

BRAD J LARSON, MD orthopedics

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O U R S P E C I A LT I E S

OUR PHYSICIANS

ORTHO PAED ICS

BRENT A FELIX, MD SPENCER B HENINGER, DPM

SPINE HAND PO D IATRY PAI N MANAG EMENT cash prices available for all procedures

GREGORY J HICKEN, MD AMMON A HILLS, DO BRAD J LARSON, MD KEITH J NELSON, MD ERIK PETERSON, MD JACOB PUGSLEY, DO DAVID M ROWLEY, MD

435.787.7190

55 E Golf Course Road Logan, UT 84321 O U R M I S S I O N S TAT E M E N T: To provide high quality, cost efficient ambulatory surgery services in a personalized and compassionate manner for the patients we serve.

Offering outpatient knee and hip replacements and spinal fusions

10 | Summer 2020

Gardening is NOT Canceled written by EMILY BUCKLEY,

editor in chief

M

ark and Ronnette Anderson, owners of Anderson’s Seed and Garden in Downtown Logan were just beginning their busiest season of the year after a long Cache Valley winter when the local “stay home, stay safe” recommendation came from Governor Herbert on March 27. Suddenly, what seemed like busy before was only a preview of what was to come.

Garden supply stores were considered essential during the shutdown, and the lines at Anderson’s seed counter were literally out the door as Cache Valley residents came in to buy plants, seeds, and other supplies to plant their gardens. “When times get tough, Anderson’s gets busier,” Mark said.

Mark and Ronnette felt it was important to continue serving Cache Valley residents, but they knew they couldn’t do it alone. “We gathered our employees together and gave them the option,” Mark said. “We told them we wanted them to feel safe and to stay healthy, so we wouldn’t ask them to work if they didn’t feel comfortable, but they all agreed that this was an important way they could help our community. I have been so proud of our employees as they’ve felt the drive to fill this need for our community during a tough time.”

Anderson’s has seen all kinds of gardeners this spring: the seasoned, the green, and everyone in between. Whether you are new to gardening and are simply looking for a way to keep your family busy during this unique time, or if you have gardened in the past and are using gardening as a way to increase your food storage, Mark offers the following three tips to help you have the best chance at success: Don’t overwhelm yourself. “Some people come in and say they want to try everything,” Mark said. “Keep in mind that some things have very specific care requirements and it can get overwhelming fast.” He

suggests, “Only plant your favorites — if you aren’t going to eat it, don’t plant it.”

Be realistic about the space you have available. “If you only have a small area to work with, be realistic about what will fit,” Mark said. He explains that, for example, a cauliflower plant will flower once and can take up a lot of space while a tomato plant may take the same amount of space and can produce a bushel and a half of tomatoes.

“Consider what is going to give you the most return on the space that you have,” Mark said. “The best return on your investment is going to be your core vegetables: beans, corn, tomatoes, carrots, beets, potatoes — these things don’t take up a lot of space and will provide you with food you can store and use all winter long.”

Keep it fun. “Let the kids participate,” Mark said. “Let them make mistakes and then fix them together. The trick is taking them out to ‘play’ and work in the garden in 15- to 30-minute bursts, not for hours on end — then it is fun, not work. It is a great activity you can do together as a family.”

Mark suggests that kids will enjoy seeing that they took part in planting and caring for the garden so much that the results will extend beyond learning how to be self-sufficient and to be hard workers. “Our kids are all veggie eaters because they’ve grown up enjoying what they’ve harvested,” he said.

If you have questions about anything you are growing in Cache Valley, check the Knowledge Center on andersonseedandgarden.com for a wealth of information, or stop into their store at 69 West Center Street in Logan to pick up their Vegetable Information Guide or even ask the experts themselves.

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Find us at 69 West Center Street in Logan or give us a call!

(435) 752 - 2 3 4 5

Perk up stressed and struggling plants with Compost Tea! Buy a 1-gallon ($11.99) or a 2.5 gallon ($29.99) container of compost tea and refill for free all summer long through August 15!

Made with Seedlingers Fertelixer

12 | Summer 2020

COVID-19 and People with Disabilities written by CHERYL ATWOOD, executive director, OPTIONS for Independence

P

eople with disabilities are disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Many fear if they get the virus they won’t survive it. This is not an unfounded fear, as their immune systems may not be able to respond effectively to fight off the illness. This fear may increase the feeling of isolation, which can impact physical and mental health.

Approximately one in four adults in the U.S. has a disability and an estimated 60% of Americans have at least one chronic health condition that could make the symptoms of COVID-19 more severe or deadly.

People with disabilities may rely on family and friends to help them with everyday needs.

They not only need to protect themselves from the virus by limiting visitors and outings, but they also need to protect care providers if they were to contract the virus.

There is a direct correlation between loneliness and serious health risks, such as heart disease, weakened immune systems, and stroke. It is critical that people with disabilities maintain connections to the outside world to help offset these feelings.

People with intellectual disabilities may have an extremely difficult time dealing with increased isolation. Before the pandemic, 45% of people with intellectual disabilities reported feeling lonely. The increased pressure from living in quarantine can cause mood swings, mental health issues, and increased anxiety. The pandemic lockdown can mean sudden deprivation of specialized services and supports that keep individuals connected to the community and others.

Another area of concern is for individuals with autism who typically thrive on structure and routine. When that routine is interrupted it can cause a lot of challenges and stress on the individual and their family or support system. Using social stories is one way to help a person on the autism spectrum better understand the need for increased hand washing, social distancing, and new routines. A support group for those supporting individuals on the spectrum is available at OPTIONS for Independence. It is currently being held via Zoom, or you can join the Cache Valley Autism Support Group on Facebook.

What can be done to feel safe and connected during the pandemic?

• Reach out virtually. The use of technology is one way to stay connected with others.

Access to technology may be an issue for various reasons. Assistance in learning how to use a device, reliable internet access, or funding to purchase technology may be needed. See box at right for ways OPTIONS for Independence may be able to help.

• Take care of your health. Keep a regular routine, even when stuck at home. Eat healthy meals and get some form of exercise every day. It is OK to go outside. Use proper precautions like wearing a face covering when social distancing is not possible. Wash your hands often and stay home when sick.

• Reach out for help. It is so important to reach out for help when we are overwhelmed, whatever the reason. Find someone to talk to.

OPTIONS for Independence is a disability service provider in Cache, Box Elder, and Rich Counties in Northern Utah. OPTIONS’ mission is to provide services and supports to individuals with all types of disabilities and of all ages to assist them to live as independently as possible. OPTIONS received CARES Act funding to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic and the surge of needs individuals with disabilities may encounter when trying to access or reconnect with the services and supports they need to remain safe in their communities.

CARES Act supplemental funding has some specific areas of focus: • Technology to enable and support the provision of services.

• Supplies and services that advance the safety and health of individuals.

• Services and activities that assist individuals with disabilities who are at risk of being institutionalized to remain in their communities OR for individuals in institutional settings to move to community-based settings.

OPTIONS has several programs for specific disability groups that may help during the pandemic. Groups include: Youth Zoom meetings, programs for older adults with vision loss, nursing home diversion, and transition and regular community activities. A therapist is available on a limited basis for those in crisis.

Please contact OPTIONS with questions or to request services at 435-753-5353, 106 East 1120 North, Logan, UT, www.optionsind.org.

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GIVE THEM YOUR BEST SHOT! Are you and your children up to date on immunizations?

I NFANT IM M U N IZATIO N S

YO U T H AN D T E E N I MMU N I Z AT I ON S

AD U LT I MM U NIZ AT IONS

Immunizations are one of the most important things a parent can do to protect their children's health and to prevent disease that can strike at any age.

Vaccines are not just for infants.

As kids get older, protection provided by some childhood vaccines can wear off. Help your child transition into adolescence in a healthy way by staying up-to-date on pre-teen vaccines.

Immunizations are not just for kids — we ALL need immunizations to keep us healthy and to help protect our loved ones.

Bear River Health Department offers walk-in services for all immunizations (excluding travel shots — please call to schedule an appointment for them).

CALL 435-792-6500 OR VISIT BRHD.ORG FOR MORE INFO.

14 | Summer 2020

The Book Table:

WHERE YOUR STORY BEGINS written by EMILY BUCKLEY,

I

editor in chief

f the streets and buildings of Downtown Logan could talk, they would surely have stories to tell. One of those stories is that of The Book Table, a family business that began in 1933 when a woman would travel to school book fairs with only a bag of books and a card table to sell her products on, and so the name The Book Table was born. She eventually set up shop at 36 West Center Street in Logan, where The White Owl currently operates.

managing 20 employees isn’t enough to keep a woman busy, Candice is also the mother of six. Over the years she has become a master multi-tasker. She says one of the benefits of owning her own business is the ability to involve her children in her work. “We have a nursery built into our office space, so all of my babies have come to work with me,” Candice said. “All of the kids have grown up helping the store, and our oldest son is now an official employee.”

In 1974 Cache Valley entrepreneur Gene Needham purchased The Book Table. He moved it to 87 North Main Street before purchasing the Keith O’Brien department store building at 29 South Main from the Thatcher Family in 1986 and moved The Book Table operations there.

Her ability to balance it all was tested during the last weeks of school when children were required to school at home during the COVID-19 shutdown and she was left to homeschool and be an innovative business owner all at once.

Gene owned the store until his son and daughterin-law, Jeff and Candice Needham, purchased the business in 2013.

Over the years, the store’s offerings have changed, following what Candice calls the ebbs and flows of the market. “We are a niche store, but the niche is constantly changing,” Candice said. “We are always trying to find unique offerings for Cache Valley residents.”

“You just do what you have to do,” Candice said of the experience. “I keep telling myself the same thing I’ve been reminding my kids: ‘You can do harder things than you think you can … that is where you grow. Hopefully we can all look back at this experience and say it was an opportunity to rise.”

When Jeff and Candice bought the store, it boasted one of Cache Valley’s most complete VHS rental sections, as that market dwindled the store evolved.

They remain, however, one of the last 2,000 independent bookstores in the United States. Current store offerings include books, musical instruments, sheet music, games, toys, puzzles, children’s dress-ups, LDS products, home décor and boutique products, locally made products, and more.

“Our tagline is ‘Where Your Story Begins,’” Candice said. “We’ve tried to create a place where people can come in and create their story, whether that is diving into a story about a knight with a dress-up to match, learning to play an instrument, or finding a new cookbook and learning to cook.”

As if running a 36,000-square-foot retail store and Jeff and Candice Needham, owners of The Book Table, and their children Rylan, Easton, Blakely, Lincoln, Leighton, and Emery, at their home. They are currently restoring the historic property known as the David Eccles House on Center Street.

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You’ve stepped up.

Treat yourself and a friend, too!

Find us on Facebook & Instagram! @loganbooktable

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buy one, get one half off ANY ITEM (EXLUDING INSTRUCMENTS).

Not valid on sale or discount items. Cannot be combined with other offers. Limit one per customer. Expires 9/1/2020.

16 | Summer 2020

10 Ways to Add

Instant Curb Appeal to Your Home This Summer written by BLAKE OSTLER,

realtor, Jette Youngblood Real Estate

I

nterest rates are still historically low and the housing market is hot, so whether you are planning to sell your home or just want to increase the curb appeal of your home for your own enjoyment, these 10 tips will give your home an instant boost.

ADD SHUTTERS Framing the windows, shutters offer big impact without any structural work. They can be purchased at almost any home improvement store or could be the perfect DIY weekend project.

GIVE YOUR FRONT DOOR PERSONALITY Want to make your home stand out in an otherwise “cookie-cutter” neighborhood, or provide a welcoming vibe for everyone who pulls up to your home? A pop of color on your front door will do the trick. With a little elbow grease, painting your front door will only take a couple of hours and can add an instant “wow factor” to any home.

PLANT FLOWERS Give your house a homey feeling by adding a flower bed along the front of the house or walkway. This helps to soften the harsh lines of the house. Be sure to keep plants 18-to-24 inches away from the house to prevent pests like spiders. Also, watch the size of your plants, keeping tall plants in the back and short plants in the front.

Take time to plan so you have things blooming in different seasons.

MAKE GARAGE DOORS INTERESTING Add hardware to your garage door to bring it from boring to beautiful. Kits are available for purchase to make it a simple project.

SPRUCE UP YOUR FRONT PORCH Adding chairs or furniture to your front porch says, “Come sit, have a cold lemonade, and visit!” There’s something magical and almost historical about sitting on the front porch and watching the world around you on a hot summer day.

FRESHEN UP YOUR MAILBOX Giving your mailbox a nice post, fresh paint, and new numbers can add instant value. It’s one of the first things people see as they come up to your house, and it’s probably the most overlooked.

BUY SOME POTTED PLANTS A colorful container of annual flowers is an affordable way to add instant curb appeal. Colored pots like blue or yellow are very popular right now.

UPDATE YOUR HOUSE NUMBERS Show some personality and make your house numbers stand out from the road. Use flowers, lights, or oversized numbers to achieve this look.

MAKE A SIMPLE, YET STUNNING, PORCH DISPLAY Nothing says “welcome to my home” like a wreath on the door, potted greens or trees on the porch, or a nice welcome mat at the door.

ADD AMBIENT LIGHT Solar lights are a great and affordable way to add ambient lighting at dusk and dark. There’s something magical about lighting up your home with an elegant display of lighting.

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18 | Summer 2020

The Cache Valley Fun Park Invites Families to Come Back and Have Some Fun written by EMILY BUCKLEY,

O

ver two decades ago, Cache Valley resident Forrest Fackrell saw a need for more wholesome family entertainment in Cache Valley. Instead of waiting for someone else to do something about it, he purposed the idea of opening a roller rink to his wife, and 13 months later, in April 1998, they opened the Cache Valley Fun Park, located at 255 E. 1770 North in Logan.

The original Fun Park housed a roller-skating rink, arcade, and a snack bar. In the 22 to years since it opened, it has evolved to keep up with the growth of the valley and now includes a soft play jungle gym, indoor laser runner, outdoor tactical laser tag, ax throwing, and bowling. The snack bar has also been expanded to a full café, selling freshly made pizza, burgers, and even Aggie Ice Cream.

“There is something for everyone,” General Manager Gary Wiser said. “We say we are the funnest place in town, and I really think that is true. From toddlers to grandparents, everyone can have a good time at the Fun Park.”

The Fun Park is also a favorite birthday party venue for Cache Valley families. “We make the planning, entertainment, and clean up really easy for parents,” Gary said.

During the school year, The Fun Park hosts toddler playtimes for preschool-aged kids that include crafts, storytime, science experiments, dancing on the roller rink, and playtime in the soft play area. And on Tuesdays and Wednesday evenings the roller rink is filled with young adults for SK80s Night or country swing dancing.

Those weekly activities came to an abrupt halt in mid-March when The Fun Park was forced to close amid the COVID-10 crisis. For almost two months the building sat empty, but they have now reopened all of their activity areas, with stringent cleaning and sanitation standards in place, and invite families to come back and enjoy some quality time together.

“We really hope people will feel safe coming to the Fun Park,” Gary said. “I would hate to see this Cache Valley treasure go to the wayside; times have definitely been tough. We are doing everything possible to minimize risk for our customers.”

Some ways families may consider supporting the Fun Park during these unusual times include buying gift cards for future use or utilizing the outdoor tactical laser tag. “That activity naturally lends itself to social distancing,” Gary said. “Plus, it is outside and limited to just your group for use.”

He also said that their café is offering curbside delivery for food. “If nothing else, come get an Aggie Ice Cream cone,” Gary said. “Every little bit helps.”

The Fun Park is offering its acclaimed summer camps this year. Parents can register their kids online at cachevalleyfunpark.com.

Gary says he loves his job. “The reality is that I’m just a big kid. There is just something about this place that clicks with my soul. I love seeing people have a good time and I love working with my employees because they share this mentality — they all want to see people come and have a good time and work really hard to make that happen.”

editor in chief

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255 E 1770 N - Logan | (435) 792-4000 CacheValleyFunPark.com

• • • •

Arcades & Redemption Center The Gutter | 16 Lane Bowling Center Flashpointe Tactical Laser Tag | 1.5 Acre Outdoor Arena. Think Real Life “Call of Duty” Roller Jungle | Roller Skating Rink

• • • •

Soft Play Indoor Jungle Gym Lumberjacked Axe Throwing. Beards Not Required Park Café | Aggie Ice Cream, Gourmet Pizza, Cheesy Breadsticks, Burgers, & more!

Lazer Runner | Indoor Laser Tag Arena

20 | Summer 2020

Restaurants got creative with their marketing during the shutdown.

One example was Café Sabor’s Taco Survival Kit that included a roll of toilet paper.

Cache Valley Restaurants Co-Op to Offer Delivery and Take-Out During Shutdown written by EMILY BUCKLEY,

editor in chief

J

ust days before Utah restaurants were ordered to shut down in-house dining in an effort to curb the spread of COVID-19, local restaurateur Sabor Saheli, owner of Angie’s Restaurant, reached out to Justin Hamilton, owner of Café Sabor, Off Premise Catering, Bluebird Restaurant, and Bluebird Candy.

“Sabor had been on a cruise and came back through California,” Justin said. “Locally, we were a little delayed on what was happening around the country, but Sabor told me what he’d seen and that we were going to get hit pretty fast — it was only going to be a matter of days before we were going to lose restaurant dining.”

The two brainstormed with other restaurant owners and quickly developed a plan to weather the storm ahead.

“The order came on March 16 and we had 24 hours before dining stopped,” Justin said. “Within 48 hours of the shutdown we had our delivery co-op in place.”

The plan included using Justin’s catering vans and employees to deliver food for restaurants in the co-op. With help from the Cache Valley Media Group, they had a website, cachevalleyrestaurantdelivery.com, developed in 12 hours and were adding new restaurants to the group every day.

“As a business owner the number one thing your mind goes to is ‘how am I going to keep people employed … what am I going to do for my employees?’” Justin said. “I knew we had to come up with a way to keep as many people working as we could.”

Justin explained that food delivery services like Uber Eats and

Door Dash do exist in Cache Valley, but they don’t keep restaurant employees working and don’t allow restaurants to have as much control over the quality of service.

“Our goal was to get as many of the local restaurants delivering for themselves,” Justin said. 'That would mean their own servers were making money.”

Justin said the co-op saw great success right away. “In the first six weeks, we had over 42,000 visitors to the website with 33,000 clickthroughs — which means 33,000 people went to restaurant websites to order food. It was pretty amazing to see so much support.”

He continued saying that many local restaurants have regularly supported local fundraisers and events, and he recognized that the community was consciously choosing to return that support during this time of need for restaurants.

“Logan is a pretty special place,” Justin said. “It’s been cool to see.

Restaurants have fared much better in Cache Valley than other places just because people have really rallied together and supported local business.”

Now that in-house dining has reopened, will the co-op continue?

Justin says, “Absolutely. In addition to delivery, this is an alliance of local businesses sticking together and supporting each other. I see us doing that for a very long time.”

There are currently 36 locally owned and operated businesses involved with the co-op. Visit cachevalleyrestaurantdelivery.com to view a directory and to order food for delivery or pick up online.

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22 | Summer 2020

HOW TO HELP: Donate to CAPSA at capsa.org/donate or by mail at PO Box 3617, Logan UT 84323.

Local Organization Provides Help as Domestic Abuse Cases in Cache Valley Increase During Pandemic written by TARA BONE,

T

Supporters can also create a Facebook Fundraiser for CAPSA and encourage friends and family to donate. Facebook fundraisers can be set up at FB.com/pg/CAPSAservices/fundraisers

contributing writer

he closure of schools, restaurants, stores, and businesses since mid-March to prevent the spread of COVID-19 has been a challenging adjustment for most people, but for those living in an abusive relationship, being confined to home is a nightmare.

Unfortunately, world and national experts have recorded an alarming increase in domestic abuse cases during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to James Boyd of CAPSA, a nonprofit domestic violence, sexual abuse, and rape recovery center that serves Cache Valley and the Bear Lake area, Cache Valley is following that trend.

During March and April 2020, CAPSA experienced a 122% increase in crisis calls to its 24-hour support line compared to the same months in 2019.

In fact, all CAPSA services, including therapy services, casework sessions, and emergency shelter help increased. All CAPSA services are free and confidential for anyone who needs help.

James says in his experience, many in Cache Valley assume domestic violence and sexual abuse don’t happen in our community, but they do. He says nationally, one in four women will suffer from domestic abuse, and in Utah, that figure is higher: One in three Utah women will suffer abuse.

“It’s happening all around us, but we don’t talk about it; there’s a stigma around abuse and many feel ashamed,” James said. “It can happen to anyone we know.”

James encourages open dialogue about abuse and a focus on education. Education is a key part of CAPSA’s ultimate goal of ending domestic violence in our community. CAPSA works with human resource directors and last year presented 600 workshops to local high schools about healthy relationships. But in the current pandemic, victims need help now.

A May 4, 2020 letter from Jill Anderson, CAPSA executive director, highlighted how the pandemic has created the perfect storm for an escalation of abuse and how CAPSA has had to use new methods to help victims in an environment of social distancing.

“We know domestic violence has increased during this crisis; with social distancing, many victims are now trapped with their abusers and increased fear and anxiety often trigger escalated abuse,” Jill said. “Although we are a nonprofit these changes have incurred significant costs, such as implemented technology and expanded services to ensure individuals and families have a safe place to escape abuse and are able to heal from the associated trauma.”

CAPSA has moved all casework and clinical therapy to phone and online sessions using encrypted, or secure video conferencing. Jill says the transition has been smooth, but hasn’t been without additional cost. Another side effect of social distancing is the need to keep those who need emergency shelter safe from COVID-19, so new shelter clients stay in a hotel for up to seven days for isolation and observation of symptoms.

These services all need funds, but many fundraising events have been canceled or postponed, and future fundraising efforts will be difficult. In the face of increased demand, the need for donations has never been greater.

“Think of a real person out there who is trapped and needs help,” Jim said. “A $60 donation could give someone a safe night.”

Jill and the CAPSA team are asking community members to help share CAPSA’s message by following CAPSA on Facebook and liking, sharing, and commenting on their posts because someone in your social network may need to see their message. They’re also asking for donations to ensure core programs remain available to those who need help.

KNOW DREAMS KNOWHELP

| 23

#knowCAPSA

#knowCAPSA

The trauma from rape and sexual assault is real - CAPSA can help.

CAPSA offers CONFIDENTIAL and FREE services including a 24-hour Support Phone Line, Emergency Shelter, Clinical Therapy, Protective Order Assistance, Rape Exam Advocacy, Support Groups, and more. Call CAPSA at 435-753-2500 for help and to dream again.

DURING THIS CRISIS CAPSA continues to provide domestic violence support services Support Phone Line, Protective Order Assistance, Advocacy, Emergency Shelter, Housing, Clinical Therapy and More...

For help, call CAPSA at 435-753-2500

435-753-2500 capsa.org

This project was supported by Award No. [19VOCA081] awarded by the Utah Office Victims of Crime, Department of Justice. The opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations are those of CAPSA and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Department of Justice or grant-making component.

24 | Summer 2020

8 T IPS FO R

RV-ing with Kids

the Camper T HE YE AR O F

written by EMILY BUCKLEY,

editor in chief

T

his year just may be “the year of the camper.” Considering that millions of cooped-up Americans are eager to get out and travel and that driving will be the preferred method of transportation for the near future, self-cocooning in some sort of RV would seem to be one of the most desirable ways to travel with family or close friends.

“We are some of the fortunate who have thrived during this pandemic,” Derek Hendricks, marketing manager for Castle Country RV in Logan, said. “Apart from providing several jobs and hiring new employees during this pandemic, we have been able to help a lot of people find an RV that suits their needs so they can camp in comfort and luxury.”

Anyone with travel plans this spring or summer has had to reevaluate them, and Castle Country RV has been there to help. “We have focused on helping people who have had their vacation plans changed,” Derek said.

“With shutdowns of major cities and cruises, along with several travel restrictions, many people have turned to vacationing and social distancing in nature. With camping being one of the only options for deviating from the typical routine of work and home life, many people have been looking for trailers to plan trips and carry all of their toys.”

Castle Country RV is under new ownership this year. Randy and Valorie Haugen, and their son, Jason, who are the majority owners of Legacy RV Center in Salt Lake City purchased the business in February. “Although we are under new ownership, Cache Valley residents can expect the same quality service they’ve always gotten at Castle Country RV,” Derek said. “We offer the lowest prices in the country on trailers and strive for greatness.

The only changes we plan to make are for improvement — our new owners have a great vision for the future, and we are excited to see what this new adventure brings!”

Castle Country RV is starting work on a new 20-acre lot in Wellsville that will better fit their inventory. Along with more space for trailers, the new store will provide more bays for service, have a larger parts department, offer a dumping station, and, in some cases, let customers stay the night in their trailer.

If your family is wanting to join in on the year of the camper, Castle Country RV wants to make your RV shopping experience as safe and easy as possible. To accommodate those who are at high-risk for sickness or feel less comfortable, they are offering contactless, free delivery within 100 miles. They have also adjusted store policies, are avoiding handshakes, and are allowing customers to walk freely through trailers and contact a salesperson once they have questions.

Hitting the road in your RV is a great way for families to experience new sites together, but road trips can also result in grumpy kids and exhausted parents. Before you pack up for a summer outing, consider these 8 tips to make things go more smoothly: SET EXPECTATIONS Before you even leave the driveway, set expectations as a family. Will electronics be allowed?

If so, when? Who will be responsible for what chores when it comes to setting up and taking down camp?

Explain campground etiquette.

GET ORGANIZED Organization is key, especially when road tripping. Create organized spaces for them to store their toys, books, and activities.

An RV can become cluttered very quickly without assigning a space for everything.

DON’T FORGET A DOORMAT A doormat and area to leave shoes either right outside or inside the RV will go a long way to keep a clean and organized living space.

DEFINE PERSONAL SPACE If you’re on a long trip, decide how to provide each person with their own personal space.

PACK A BABY GATE FOR YOUNGER CAMPERS For little ones and babies, a pack and play or baby gate is a good idea to ensure safety around the campfire or in the RV. BE PREPARED If your children are old enough to pack for themselves it is a good opportunity to let them practice responsibility, but be prepared to back them up in case they forget something. Bring extra blankets, jackets, sunscreen, and necessary medications.

THINK CREATIVELY ABOUT ENTERTAINMENT When it comes to entertainment, the world around you is about as good as it gets. National parks and public lands often have programs for kids and teens. For rainy days, make sure to have coloring books, bubbles, and card games handy.

Some days even call for a movie. One of the great things about today’s RVs is the ability to combine modern conveniences with the great outdoors.

Randy, Valorie, and Jason Haugen, owners of Castle Country RV

ENJOY EACH OTHER Don’t forget the most important part: Enjoying one another. Take time to let the kids be kids and marvel at the way they see the world. Lie under the stars together one night or enjoy a s’more, even if the marshmallow is a little burnt.

e r u t n e v d a r o Outdo STARTS HERE!

Unbeatable Low RV Prices!

2015 MAIN ST . LOGAN, UT 84341

(435) 7 13-4242 CASTLECOUNTRYRV.COM

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26 | Summer 2020

WHE N E Y E C A RE B EC OM ES

"I Care" written by KATE NEELEY,

W

hen it comes to your child’s vision, eye health, and a sense of community, Dr. Michael Cole and his wife Krystal have created something that truly changes ‘eye care’ into ‘I care.’ His optometry practice in Logan specializes in helping kids, but is fully equipped to serve every member of the family.

Dr. Cole’s gentle demeanor and caring approach put children at ease, and he schedules double the amount of time than typical optometry offices. This allows for plenty of time to explain what he’s going to do as he examines each patient’s eyes, and he specifically runs his practice this way so that he can take the time to talk with the entire family.

The backstory of what led to the opening of their practice is filled with hard work, commitment to family, and a deep love for community, something you could call a sense of warm, downhome ‘southern hospitality’ that can partially be attributed to the time they spent in Memphis, Tennessee at The Southern College of Optometry following his undergraduate degree at Utah State University (USU).

Michael grew up in Preston, Idaho, and Krystal grew up in Brigham City. They met while in college, Michael in Logan at USU and Krystal at Dixie College. Krystal’s sister knew Michael from work and connected them, which led to Krystal moving to Logan and the two of them getting married. It’s no surprise that Michael was drawn to her. He said he was attracted to her because she's not only beautiful, but her kind heart and easy smile draw you in and she wanted more than anything to be a mother and have a family.

The Coles have three boys and one baby girl, and live in Hyrum.

They love Cache Valley with its history and connections built through local businesses and events like The Famous Preston Night Rodeo and small restaurants like Pizza Villa. Both Michael and Krystal like to support local businesses and connect with people around them as much as they can. Starting their business in the valley is becoming a great part of that.

In a bold way, Michael decided to jump right in and start his own practice in Logan as soon as he was done with his education. While still in school, he spent every spare moment making his business plan. Lewiston State Bank was instrumental in taking an ambitious young optometrist and helping him get his wings to fly as early on

Michael and Krystal Cole and family

contributing writer

as he did. Child and Family Eyecare Center opened October 2015 and will celebrate five years of growth and putting down roots this fall.

What turned his eye to optometry? The truth might surprise you.

Michael really likes people. “I wanted to do something impactful,” he said. When he started his university studies, he first majored in engineering and found that even though he was intelligent and could do it, he wasn’t satisfied with numbers and mechanisms. He wanted to connect with people in a way that made their lives better.

As kids, both Krystal and Michael experienced eye problems that hindered their success in school. Michael recalls what a change it made when he got glasses in high school and no longer had to squint to see the words on the board to take notes. Krystal had some binocular vision problems that went undiagnosed most of her childhood but affected her school experience. While Michael studied at optometry school, she was able to get the vision therapy that Michael now does with kids.

The Coles have worked together to create something wonderful in Cache Valley and in Michael’s optometry practice. Michael speaks highly of his office staff and trusts them as a reliable part of the business and the community as a whole.

His office offers cutting-edge technology for the best eye care possible, and they are committed to providing the warmth of a listening ear and old-fashioned caring friendship.

| 27

Vision Care for the Entire Family IN A PR O F E S S ION A L, FA M I LY-F R I E N DLY ATMOSPHERE. If your child is not performing as expected in school, don’t wait until they fall further behind.

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• Diagnosis, treatment and prevention of eye disease • Revolutionary new contact lenses, including Multi-focal lenses • The latest looks in fashion eyewear: Great selection for kids of all ages!

• Diagnosis and treatment of vision problems that interfere with reading and learning • Vision exams for infants and toddlers • Non-surgical treatment of Strabismus (eye turns) • No “patching” treatment for Amblyopia (Lazy Eye) • Treatment of vision problems resulting from concussion • Most insurances accepted

Michael Cole, OD,

SPECIALIZES IN PEDIATRIC OPTOMETRY AND THE DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF BINOCULAR VISION DISORDERS

981 South Main, Suite 220, Logan • (435) 363-2980 WWW.C AC H EC F EC .C OM

28 | Summer 2020

Citrus Pear Dinners:

COMFORT FOOD for UNCERTAIN TIMES written by TARA BONE,

contributing writer

F

our years ago, registered dietician McKenzie Rockwood had an idea to help people with specialized diets prepare healthy meals at home. Today, her idea has grown into Citrus Pear Dinners — a thriving business that spans five states, employs 175 people, and is praised by customers for helping families navigate the uncertainty of COVID-19.

The Smithfield mother of three says she never dreamed her idea would have exploded as it has. After graduating from Utah State University’s (USU) dietician program in 2008, McKenzie was teaching patients at Logan Regional Hospital how to cook healthy at home. McKenzie saw that it was overwhelming for patients to implement and she wanted to help.

“I thought it would be a fun side job,” McKenzie said. “It had immediate success and grew really fast. Within one month of starting Citrus Pear, I had to quit my job at the hospital, even though I liked it.”

Her original intent of providing meals for those with special diets evolved into something more. Busy moms looking for fast, healthy, and tasty meals flocked to Citrus Pear Dinner classes. The meals are still suitable for cardiac diets and diabetic meal plans, and can be modified for common allergies.

Before COVID-19, customers signed up for classes online, went to the class at a local grocery store, and spent two hours preparing 10, 20, or 40 meals that were taken home, frozen, and then popped into the crock pot or pressure cooker for a quick and healthy meal. No grocery shopping, menu planning, or clean up necessary. During COVID-19, the process is even simpler. Customers can still get meals, according to Citrus Pear social media: “You order, we prep, you pick up your meals.”

McKenzie says it’s the “perfect solution for the busy dinner rush.” And she knows something about that. She is mom to three boys, ages 11, 8, and 6. She and her husband Mace met working together at USU. For the last six to eight months they’ve been working together again: Citrus Pear Dinners is truly a family business.

Mace is working full-time with the business and McKenzie says their 11-year-old has helped them with fair booths where “he’s relentless at getting people to stop.”

Citrus Pear Dinners grew quickly through word of mouth.

“We’ve been hanging on for the ride,” McKenzie said. “It’s been growing so fast; we’ve been trying to keep up.”

According to McKenzie, she and Mace have put processes into place and worked to be proactive, instead of reactive. Fortunately, those efforts were just what the company needed to face COVID-19.

During the March lock-down, classes had to be canceled to meet social distancing standards and new food suppliers had to be found when grocery stores couldn’t fill their food orders. McKenzie says in the last few months, they’ve had to reinvent their business. Because they have a loyal customer base and efficient processes in place, the company is making the transition from classroom teaching and food prep, to pre-assembled meals for pick up.

Feedback from customers is positive. Many have expressed that it’s comforting during a time of chaos to have the security of a freezer full of meals. McKenzie says she’s seen customers help others by buying meals for neighbors and friends.

One of those customers who has expressed gratitude for Citrus Pear Dinners is Katie Kain, who said, “You [Citrus Pear Dinners] have saved my sanity, helped my anxiety, saved us hundreds, and helped my husband and I lose almost 90 pounds and counting.”

McKenzie says seeing the generosity of customers and how the company is helping families is what keeps her going.

“This is why I do it, even if I just helped one family because their immune system is compromised, or a mom who is running ragged.”

McKenzie and Mace Rockwood and their sons.

You can find Citrus Pear Dinners online at citruspeardinners.com, on Instagram at @citrus_pear, or on Facebook as Citrus Pear.

| 29

®

e r e h l stil MAKING HEALTHY EATING EASY

W W W. C I T R U S P E A R D I N N E R S . C O M

30 | Summer 2020

The Show Must Go On:

Dance Illusion Instructs in a Whole New Way Amid Pandemic written by EMILY BUCKLEY,

W

hen businesses across the state of Utah and far beyond were required to shutter their doors in mid-March to help “flatten the curve” amid the COVID-19 pandemic, many were able to easily transition their employees to do their work at home and others were considered essential and able to keep things rolling along. Dance studios fell somewhere in between and were left to either put things on hold or get creative so the show could go on.

Lisa Preece, owner of Dance Illusion in Logan, went right to work learning how to utilize online platforms like Zoom and YouTube to provide her more than 500 students with lessons they could take part in remotely.

“I am not a very technical person,” Lisa said. “So, going online was a stretch for me, but now I’m becoming a pro,” she laughed.

Providing options for her students was important to Lisa, as was keeping the business she has put everything into for the last 12 years, and providing a source of income for her employees.

“Many of these kids spend a lot of time at the studio,” Lisa said. “Dance is a huge part of their lives and I didn’t want that to just stop.”

In addition to the hundreds of classes Lisa and her team of instructors posted online and did by Zoom, she also tried to help parents by offering online story times and activities that kids could watch when parents needed a break. “I had some parents say they’d use these videos as a recess or as a distraction when they needed to help siblings with their schoolwork.”

In recent weeks, Lisa has been able to start transitioning classes back into the studio while staying in line with state and Center for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines. “As we are starting to slowly transition kids back to the studio, we are seeing the joy they bring with them,” Lisa said. “It is a lot of work to make sure we are following all the guidelines. We have invested a lot and made many changes and additions to ensure the safety of our students.”

Lisa plans to use her newfound technical skills in her program permanently. “We will continue to use our YouTube channel, as well as Zoom and other resources to continue educating outside of our building,” she said.

Teaching through a pandemic has made Lisa and her team appreciate their students and the art of dance more than ever. “We’d tear up seeing the cute kids on the screens dancing together,” Lisa said. “We love working with our students, with whatever adjustments we have to make.

Thank you to everyone that has continued to support us during this hard time. We wouldn't be here without you!”

Dance Illusion has a variety of summer classes and programs scheduled to help kids stay busy and entertained. Visit danceillusionutah.com to view their schedule and register.

editor in chief

| 31

Whether it’s your 1st dance class,

your 50th dance class,

or your 500th dance class,

! r e m m u s is h t u o y r fo s we have a clas Dance Illusion is committed to keeping your children active this summer while maintaining safe social distancing in a positive learning environment.

View our summer schedule and sign up today at

danceillusionutah.com Class sizes will be limited due to social distancing.

DAN CEILLUSION5 678@GMAIL.COM

42 EAST 2200 NORTH SUITE #1 NORTH LOGAN • 435-755-6783

32 | Summer 2020

When a Family Business Means More written by EMILY BUCKLEY,

A

s Christie Stock, president of Discount Tire, faced the reality of the pandemic head-on in March, she and the rest of her leadership team decided to take the approach of considering what they needed to do to be there for their employees and the community, and then do whatever they could to make it happen.

“We had to take a look at all of our expenses and make sure our ship was as tight it could be,” Christie said. “Rather than furloughing or laying anyone off, we talked to them and everyone agreed to cut their hours by just a few a week so we could keep everyone working. We said, ‘We are a family’ — that is how we have always treated our employees — ‘and we have to take care of each other.’”

Being a family business is not just figurative, though. Christie’s parents, Larry and Vickie Nicholls, founded Discount Tire in Logan in 1976, and the family has since grown the business to 13 stores (three in Cache Valley, nine in Wyoming, and one in Idaho), and employs 200 people, including three generations of family.

Christie said the company also chose to continue to pay bonuses and commissions during March and April, even though business was down by almost 80%, to ensure the morale and peace of mind of their employees.

“Our philosophy is to take care of our people,” Christie said. “If we can keep them doing OK, then they are going to create happiness and deliver it to our customers. The more we spread kindness, the better off we will all be.”

editor in chief

Christie said that Discount Tire is all about safety, and right now that not only means keeping essential worker and family cars and tires in top condition, but also providing their services in a way that makes people feel safe and comfortable.

“We’ve gone to great lengths to adjust our services to ensure public safety,” Christie said. Some of the things they have done include allowing customers to book and pay for services online, installing drop boxes so customers can leave their keys and go, and sanitizing vehicles and keys when they finish their work.

Christie’s son, Josh Stock, is the manager of Discount Tire in Providence. “It gives me a lot of pride as both his employer and his mom, to see the way he interacts with his customers,” Christie said. She says he goes above and beyond to help customers.

One example, prior to the pandemic, was that Josh would regularly visit one customer’s husband in a nursing home on Sundays so she could take a break from the stress of being a caregiver. Christie said he has other senior customers who come into the shop regularly to visit with Josh, knowing he’ll be a listening ear and friend.

“Everyone who goes there feels like they have a friend, son, or brother who is taking care of them,” Christie said.

“That kind of trust has been really important during this time,” she said. “Customers come in knowing we will take care of them — even if it means working on their cars while they sit inside so they don’t have to risk exposure or setting up a table and chair outside so they can avoid the waiting room.”

Josh Stock, manager of Discount Tire in Providence.

Yes! We’re

| 33

We are an essential business. Your safety is our livelihood.

Try our DROP & GO after hours key drop!

& Delivery Pickupoptions available!

34 | Summer 2020

I

BRINGING HOME TO

e h c a C y e l l a V

written by TARA BONE,

contributing writer

sabel and Eric Jones of Cache Home Realty in Logan are passionate about helping their clients navigate the ups and downs of the real estate market, so if you were thinking about buying or selling before COVID-19 hit and now you’re wondering what to do, now is the time to go for it with their team of professionals.

Cache Home Realty was considered an essential business during the COVID-19 lockdown, so Isabel, Eric, and their team have been working through the pandemic and watching the market. Though there is uncertainty right now, Isabel says she doesn’t foresee a decline of home values and that the Utah economy and markets are strong. The only difference she’s noticed is the length of time a home for sale stays on the market. Before COVID-19, a home was typically on the market for two weeks, whereas today a home may sit a month, but sellers are still getting their asking price, and buyers are still buying.

Isabel says she often hears the misconception among buyers that they’re waiting until the market crashes. But she doesn’t believe the market’s going to crash in Cache Valley where home inventory is low and it’s a seller’s market. Unfortunately, she sees a lot of buyers get priced out of the market because they wait too long.

“If you’re thinking of buying, don’t wait; now is the time to get in and build equity,” Isabel said. “If you have a hunch — follow it!”

The couple is passionate about serving their clients and making the entire real estate process easy for them. In fact, she says she believes in taking care of clients like family and loves what she does. “I was born to do this,” she said. “I love every inch of it — it’s all me.”

Isabel discovered her passion for real estate in 2014 when she got her license to sell a property for her husband. They enjoyed working together and their desire to serve their community culminated in the creation of the Cache Home Realty Team. Today their team consists of six others who are committed to their mission of making Cache Valley a better place. “At the end of the day, we want to make a difference in the valley we love,” Eric says.

Their team approach is critical to their success because Isabel says “together we can do more.” Every year the team has met their goals and continues to reach higher. The team sold 82 homes in 2019 and is already on track to double that in 2020. They have a goal to become number one in northern Utah, and in six months they’ll open Keller Williams, a new office and brokerage.

The Jones’ work tirelessly to provide the best experience for their clients. Isabel says, the average agent in Cache Valley gets 96.7% of the original home asking price, but they get 99.37% of the original asking price. This means that on average they make their clients $6,538 more on an average sales price of $274,260.

The Cache Home Realty Team met the unique challenges that the pandemic presented head-on. The way they adjusted to meet the needs of the community is an example of how their team members are, as Isabel describes them, “professionals who are expert problem solvers.”

Though they followed increased safety measures, including virtual showings and virtual agent trainings, and adopted the Center for Disease Control guidelines, the team completed more transactions during the lockdown than they had in the previous months of 2020.

The story of Isabel and Eric started at Logan High School where they met in 2000. They’ve been together for 15 years and live in Hyde Park where they’re busy with their four young children. They say their secret to success is putting “God, family, and work in that order.” But their work doesn’t feel like work to them because they say they enjoy serving the community.

“It doesn’t seem like a job because we love it so much,” Isabel said. “We want to preserve the feel of Cache Valley and leave it a better place.”

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? y t i u q Got e

Voted Cache Valley’s

the last three years!

36 | Summer 2020

Four Seasons Theatre Company Looks Forward to a Return to the Stage written by EMILY BUCKLEY,

B

rothers Kody and Jon Rash’s entrepreneurial love for theatre began when they were just boys walking around their Smithfield neighborhood recruiting friends to play parts in their backyard skits. Their love for the art grew with them and as adolescents, they both, along with their younger brother Danny, were heavily involved in drama at Sky View High School and community theatre productions.

Each of the three brothers went on to pursue careers outside of the theatre, but never lost interest, and stayed individually involved in community theatre. Almost a decade ago, Kody, who was a newlywed, approached his wife, Kim, and his brothers with the idea to start their own theatre company.

“Our goal was to take little elements from different experiences we had each had and morph them into something new for Cache Valley,” Kody said. “It can get expensive really fast to take a family to the theatre, but we know there is an important impact that the arts can have on adults and children and how they see the world. It was important to us, right from the start, to keep our productions affordable for families to attend.”

editor in chief

With the support of Sky View High School, the family pulled their personal savings and jumped in with both feet creating Four Seasons Theatre Company. Their first production, in 2011, was A Christmas Carol. It involved a cast of 30 and opening night only drew a crowd of 56, Kody said.

“It was kind of devastating, but at the same time we were so proud we were able to look past that,” Kody said. “We just pushed through, kept our vision, and continued to grow.”

Last summer they sold 11,000 tickets for their production of The Little Mermaid.

“It is exciting to see families catch on and see them appreciate what we are offering the community,” Kody said. “It has made all of the stress worth it.”

One thing that sets Four Seasons Theater Company apart from other small theatre companies is their outstanding set and costume designs. “Everything is created in house,” Kody said. “My brother Danny and Nathan Allen are set gurus and we design and create

Jon, Kim, Kody and Danny Rash

| 37

every costume. We are very picky about what we put out there. We expect a high standard from ourselves and I think our audiences have come to expect that, too. We try to push our creativity a little further with every show, not only to offer more to our audiences but also so we can grow as artists.”

Four Seasons Theater Company, a non-profit organization, now involves larger casts, has a board of 15, and usually produces four shows a year. They were in the middle of their run of Tuck Everlasting when theatre entertainment came to an abrupt halt in midMarch.

“It was devastating to have to stop in the middle of a production,” Kody said. “Everyone had put in a lot of blood sweat and tears, and there was no time to plan, so it was really sad, but it isn’t done. Everything is waiting in the wings; the set is still together; costumes are clean and ready to go. So as soon as we get to the green phase [of Utah’s COVID-19 recovery plan], hopefully, this summer, we will continue our run of Tuck.”

Kody and the Four Seasons family believes that the arts will return. “We feel assured that things will come back, and they’ll be stronger than ever,” Kody said. “One thing that has come through during this whole tragedy is the power of entertainment. It can get us through hard things, it can inspire us, it can motivate us, it can make us laugh, and yes, sometimes cry. We look forward to when we can do that in person again.”

38 | Summer 2020

THE JOINT CHIROPRACTIC TO OPEN IN LOGAN THIS SUMMER written by EMILY BUCKLEY,

editor in chief

T

he Joint Chiropractic was originally founded in 1999 by a Doctor of Chiropractic with a vision to transform the traditional, often misunderstood concept of routine chiropractic care by making it more convenient, friendly, and affordable. Today, The Joint has grown to a nationwide network of more than 500 chiropractic offices and counting.

Cache Valley residents with chiropractic needs will be excited to hear that The Joint Chiropractic will be coming to Logan this summer.

“Our mission is to improve quality of life through routine and affordable chiropractic care,” Toni Petersen, co-owner of The Joint said.

After 10 years of practicing in traditional chiropractic clinics, Dr. Tyler Petersen observed that the greatest obstacles for people in getting the care they need are time and money.

When he was introduced to The Joint, he realized that those two problems were solved.

“The Joint is reinventing chiropractic care by making quality chiropractic care affordable for patients seeking pain relief and ongoing wellness,” Toni said. “Our membership plans and packages eliminate the need for insurance, and our no-appointment policy, convenient hours, and locations make care more accessible.”

The Joint has performed more than four million spinal adjustments and is a leader in delivering chiropractic care. They have offices in Farmington, Layton, Bountiful, Salt Lake, Provo, and more, and are excited to be adding Cache Valley to that list.

“When you are our patient, you have a doctor wherever you go without the hassle of being ‘new,’” Toni said.

The Joint Chiropractic in Logan is a family business, owned by three siblings – Tyler, Jan’l, and Sarah — and their spouses. “We love working together as a family and we have a passion for health and wellness,” Toni said. “Our greatest aim is to provide a stellar experience to our patients and be an asset to our community. You might see us around town, getting to know the locals and learning about the Logan and North Logan communities. We fell in love with the Logan ‘vibe’ a long time ago and still love talking to you about what makes our community special.”

One fun way to get involved with The Joint is to follow their Facebook page “The Joint Chiropractic Logan,” where you can enter contests based on how well you know Logan, share your opinions in their ‘Survey Says’ posts were you can vote for the best burger, ice cream, place to get your tire changed and more, and see some amazing photos they’ve taken in Cache Valley. “You won’t want to miss the exciting chance to win incredible prizes at our grand opening,” Toni said.

“You may have heard that ‘the first’s the worst’ in healthcare,” Toni said. “That first visit can be the most painful (on the body and on the wallet). We have changed all that. Come and see us, find out if we are the best thing since sliced bread, and don’t pay a dime when you text ‘LoganWellness’ to 89000 to claim your first visit, absolutely free. You won’t want to miss it, and we can’t wait to meet you!”

| 39

COMING SOON Logan 1430 Main St. Suite 120

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40 | Summer 2020

Heroes in Our Neighborhood Grocery Stores written by TARA BONE,

contributing writer

L

ike most Utahns, when the first confirmed Utah COVID-19 case was made public on March 6, Cache Valley residents took inventory of their food supplies and a frenzy of mass buying ensued amid fear of the unknown.

While residents stocked up and hunkered down at home in the coming weeks, all grocery store workers, including those at Lee’s Marketplace in Smithfield and Logan, kept shelves stocked and food orders filled.

Jonathan Badger, president and CEO of Lee’s Marketplace, says he and the Lee’s Marketplace team are grateful that they could be an essential business to offer help to the community during an unprecedented time. He adds that food is a basic necessity that sometimes is taken for granted.

The employees at Lee’s worked hard to keep food services going.

“Our team members are heroes for facing the pandemic,” Jonathan said. “They’ve met the challenges head-on. They made it happen.”

The first challenge they met was facing the fear of coming to work. But they came. Sydney Catmull is a front-end manager at the Logan Lee’s who was there through the buying frenzy.

She’s worked at Lee’s for almost four years and enjoys it, but she’s never experienced anything like the last few months.

“The first weekend our whole store was totally bare; the shelves were empty,” she said. “It felt apocalyptic.”

But Sydney says a new shipment would come in and they would restock. According to Sydney, it was “awesome” to see everyone at Lee’s always willing to help. She’s responsible for scheduling and saw firsthand how team members came together to keep things running.

“They’d [team members] come in early and stay late,” she said. “When a truck would come at 11 p.m., people from every department would come to unload.”

Items like rice, pasta, cleaning products, canned goods — and of course toilet paper — flew off the shelves. Jonathan

Johnathan and Shari Badger

| 41

says they found new vendors when necessary and kept the trucks rolling. Prices have gone up overall, but Jonathan says they’ve “tried to find every deal possible to save people money.” They’ve been successful at restocking most items, but there is a meat shortage. However, Jonathan believes it’s not a long-term problem; the supply should return to normal in mid-June.

Keeping with the Lee’s Marketplace pledge to offer excellent service, they offer overthe-phone grocery ordering for seniors in an effort to keep them safe. Overall, Jonathan says their online grocery service has been

“stupendous.” Curbside pickup has been a go-to for customers of all ages.

Lee’s has implemented many new policies to keep team members and customers safe. All team members wear masks and gloves, and their temperatures are taken before every shift. They’re also asked a series of health questions before working. Fortunately, no one has been diagnosed with COVID-19 at their store, according to Sydney.

Carts are sanitized between each use, and other store areas are thoroughly cleaned.

During the first weeks of the pandemic,

shields were installed at check-out counters in between customers and checkers to keep everyone safe. Sydney says wearing a mask during long shifts has been a challenge for some, but 30-minute breaks and “breathing breaks” have been implemented.

New policies and hectic days and nights have been stressful, but Sydney says customers have been sincere in their appreciation for their efforts and she has learned a lot about herself and her amazing Lee’s team. She says she’s grateful to serve customers and grateful to have a stable job during a time of uncertainty.

Sydney Catmull, front-end manager of Lee's in Logan.

lettucsehop y

grocer

! u o y r o f

place a curbside pick-up order & we’ll bring it out to your car leesmarketplace.com/online-shopping

42 | Summer 2020

LEE’S PLUMBING:

A Look At Some of Cache Valley’s

Unsung Heroes written by KATE NEELEY,

contributing writer

LEE and AMBER DRAPER

T

ruly, some of the community’s quiet heroes are at the root of life’s most essential needs and comforts. Sure, a toilet may be the first thought that comes to mind when you hear the word ‘plumber,’ but have you ever stopped to think about the work and expertise behind the daily miracle of turning on a faucet to have clean water flow right into your hand?

Plumbers have to be extremely determined, fierce problem solvers, mechanically-minded, tech-savvy, and collaborative communicators. It requires years of experience, including 8,000 hours of apprenticeship, before they’re licensed in their craft.

Lee Draper, the master craftsman behind Lee’s Plumbing, and his wife, Amber, have dedicated years of their lives developing what has become a highly valued Cache Valley business. Lee’s Plumbing will celebrate 20 years this June, but Lee’s earliest beginnings in the trade happened in the 1980s when he spent time working for another plumber in California. With years, kids, and a couple of other jobs in Utah between his apprenticeship and subsequent business launch, a lot of hands-on learning took place for Lee and Amber. While Lee was working on his plumbing apprenticeship, Amber attended Bridgerland Technical College to learn accounting to help with their future business venture.

Early on in the business, Lee and his trusted workers installed plumbing for hundreds of new homes in the valley. Amber runs the accounting side and the office to keep the business humming like a well-oiled machine. In 2008, with the economic downturn, new construction jobs waned, and the business moved in a new direction, a move that proved to be smart. Lee’s Plumbing had established a great reputation in plumbing new construction and it took some faith to move forward into focusing solely on service calls, especially for Amber. Previous to that shift, they had been plumbing 80-100 new homes a year. The change has proven to be a good one for the business. If you’ve ever found yourself with a broken water heater, flooded basement, or water damage with an unknown source, you know these guys really are heroes in their own right.

Plumbers are also spies. In solving the mystery source of water damage, one of the devices Lee uses to track leaks is a high-tech, heat-sensitive camera.

“It’s basically a camera that you’re looking at that’s detecting the temperature difference on surfaces. It is the funniest thing,” Lee said. “It’s so sensitive, if I walked across the floor, and put the camera on, you would be able to see exactly where my foot touched. The heat leaves an imprint.” This way, the temperature difference on surfaces, when they’re wet underneath, can give away the source of the water leak. “We’re kind of MacGyver down there sometimes,” Lee added with a laugh.

Calling them an emergency disaster response team isn’t always a far cry from some of the calls Lee and his guys take. One of their trucks is heavily loaded with high-tech equipment, jetters, sewer cameras, locators, and tools. “When we go out to do a main line, we come loaded for bear.”

It’s definitely not the equipment that makes Lee’s Plumbing successful, though.

The guys who work with Lee have been with him for the long haul. He’s trained them all from the start, and they meet together daily and continue to share what they learn. It really is a team effort. Lee admits that no one person could ever know all there is to know, so they network with each other. It’s a continual learning process and they do it together. In relating how highly they value each one of their workers, Amber said, “We wouldn’t be Lee’s Plumbing without them.”

Even in the face of the Covid-19 pandemic, they pulled together and Lee asked everyone what they felt would be best for the company to do during this unique time. Everyone agreed that they would just keep doing what they’re doing to help people and add in some more safety precautions. When they get sick at all, they stay home. When their expertise is needed, they show up with gloves and a mask if they are serving the elderly or the immunocompromised. It’s safe to say that Lee’s Plumbing is a business that truly shows up and makes Cache Valley better every day by the work they do.

TIPS FROM LEE: A few ideas from the master plumber himself.

WORST THINGS TO PUT DOWN THE DISPOSAL.

FLUSHABLE WIPES ARE NOT FLUSHABLE.

H I G H-Q U A L I T Y P L U M B I N G S E R V I C E R E A L LY I S W O R T H T H E C O S T.

Eggshells, tough fruit and vegetable peelings, or anything heavy and sharp when it accumulates.

If they don’t dissolve in a Mason jar of water as toilet paper does, they don’t dissolve in the pipes and can lead to severe blockages. This also goes for things like dental floss and other non-dissolving materials.

If a plumbing problem really is a simple fix and you can do it yourself, Lee totally supports that, but keep in mind that the knowledge and skill of a well-trained plumber can be the difference between comfort and disaster in the long run.

| 43

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44 | Summer 2020

FRONTLINE HEROES:

A Passing Doctor Helps with a Surprise Parking Lot Delivery written by LOGAN REGIONAL HOSPITAL

A

udra and Ian Karlinsey’s bundle of joy — the sixth child for the couple — arrived faster than they’d expected on a recent chilly morning in the Logan Regional Hospital parking

lot.

“We’d barely pulled in when my water broke,” Audra said. “We were a few days out from my due date, but our baby had other plans.”

Audra was in the passenger seat when they pulled up near the entrance at the Women’s Center.

When Ian opened the door to help her out of the van, it was already too late.

“I asked him to hurry up and get some help,” Audra said. “I couldn’t move at that point. She was already coming.”

The next thing Audra knew, a doctor was calmly standing next to her catching baby Lillian as she was born. Barrett Labrum, DO, happened to be walking by on his way into the hospital and heard the cries for help. Dr. Labrum, an affiliated pediatrician who works at Primary Care Pediatrics, says he was happy to help — and it’s a good thing he was there.

Dr. Labrum put Lillian on Audra’s chest and she let out a small cry, but then she stopped breathing. He performed positive pressure ventilation via mouth-to-mouth on the baby as they waited for help to arrive.

A few minutes later Lillian was still struggling to breathe, but more help was on the way. Laura McGregor, RN, from the special care nursery, was running down the stairs with supplies. “We’ve developed a special, portable kit that includes towels, cord clamps, sterile scissors, and a selfinflating resuscitation bag,” she said. “I grabbed the kit while one of my assistant nurses got us warm blankets and extra towels.”

They gave the supplies to Dr. Labrum who attempted to give Lillian air with the resuscitator, but she needed more support.

“We took her up to the floor and put her in a warmer with a CPAP machine until she stabilized,” Laura said. “She did great and went to be with her mom about an hour and a half later.”

Laura compliments Dr. Labrum with his help during a chaotic situation. “It’s really serendipitous that he happened to be walking through the parking lot,” she said.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, testing was done to make sure there was no transition of the coronavirus to the doctor, mom, or baby. “We needed to make sure everyone was negative,” Laura said. “It was a unique situation.”

As far as having a child during a global pandemic, Audra says she’s taken it in stride. “I was worried, but everyone was extra cautious with masks, hand sanitizer, and gloves. We just kind of got used to it. Our hospital stay really wasn’t that different from normal, other than having a crazy birth story.”

She also says they were very lucky to receive help the way they did in the parking lot. “We’re grateful that the timing worked out and someone was readily available to help,” Audra said. “It was my fastest birth by far. We should’ve known better by number six.”

Lillian has since joined her grateful family at home. She is the couple’s fourth daughter and has two brothers.

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46 | Summer 2020

Love to Cook Owners Choose Hope Over Fear written by EMILY BUCKLEY,

editor in chief

L

ove to Cook is a family-owned culinary specialty store in Logan. They sell quality kitchen items at reasonable prices, teach cooking classes, and host birthday parties, but, above all, they pride themselves in offering “the best customer service around,” owner Wil Wood said. “We love people.”

Wil and his wife Lauren came to Cache Valley in 2017 after selling their Great Harvest Bread franchise in Boise, Idaho. “We are both from Cache Valley, but we were gone for 10 years,” Wil said. “It was awesome. We learned a lot about ourselves, running a business, and running a business together. We didn’t know exactly what we were going to do when we came back to the valley, but when the opportunity came up to buy Love to Cook, it felt like a great way for us to keep living a lifestyle we loved — working with employees and customers — while doing our own thing.”

Lauren adds that they have a desire to encourage people to cook at home again. “We want to go back to the basics and teach people to cut, chop, season, and flavor food to feed their families, or the people they love.”

Running a business together can be difficult for many couples, but Wil and Lauren enjoy it, and say their qualities complement each other. “I’m a ‘pie in the sky’ dreamer,” Wil said. “And Lauren is really good at organizing those dreams and making them something that can really happen.”

Like most small businesses around the world, Wil and Lauren have felt the ripple effect of lost sales during the COVID-19 pandemic, but they are choosing to face the future with hope instead of fear.

“I’m grateful that we, as a community, decided to stay home together for the good of all,” Lauren said. “I’m not afraid because I’ve seen the good of people’s hearts and souls through it all. We’ve seen people come in and say they want to spend part of their stimulus check in our store to support us. This situation has not only caused us to be more innovative in our business, but also for people to be more innovative in the ways they support each other.”

One example Wil shared is of a woman from Hyde Park who he had noticed buying several items online day after day and having them delivered to addresses other than her own.

“One day I saw that she ordered an ice cream scoop for $7.17,” Wil said.

“Our system charged a $10 delivery fee, which it does automatically for orders under $70. I emailed her and said, ‘Hi, thanks for your order!

I refunded your delivery fee. I see we are delivering it to your friend in Smithfield. I’ll already be going that way, so no need to pay for delivery.’

She responded, ‘Oh thanks, but next time just keep it for a tip!’ She just wanted to help — a lot of people are doing similar things; we just don’t always get to hear the backstory.”

This summer, the Woods are moving their store from its long-time home at 1211 N. Main Street in Logan to 795 N. Main Street, where locals will remember the Reel Time and Logan Art Cinema being in the past.

The new location will feature a large demonstration kitchen in the sunken area where the movie screen once was. “It will be fun to make our business even more our own,” Lauren said.

Wil and Lauren Wood, owners of Love to Cook.

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| 47

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48 | Summer 2020

LYNN’S AUDIO:

More Than 60 Years of Expertise written by EMILY BUCKLEY,

editor in chief

A

s a young student at Brigham Young University, Lynn Hancey became excited about the small black and white televisions they had and imagined that someday there would be big screens hanging on the walls of homes. He came back to Cache Valley and started Lynn’s Audio Video in 1958. It was originally a small, two-room store known as Lynn’s TV and Radio at 527 South Main in Logan but is now located at 1655 North Main.

Over the last six decades, Lynn, and his son, Bret, who currently owns and operates the business with his sons Terry, Jeremy, and Travis, have kept up with rapidly changing technology and earned the recognition of being the local authority on home theatre, audio, and smart home design, internet connectivity, and even central vacuum installation.

As technology has changed, the family business has evolved right with it, going from being the first business in Cache Valley to sell TVs and VCRs and doing television repair, to excelling at designing complete home theater and home automation systems. Other services include installation and integration of favorite services such as: mesh internet equipment and long-range point-to-point networking, home security and surveillance, rural internet access, High-Definition TV sales, brand name consumer electronics such as Sony, Bose, and Sonos, as well as installing smart shades, water softeners, and electronics, and repairing smartphones.

Still, Lynn’s Audio Video has remained true to their small-town values of offering fair pricing and expert advice, cutting through the technical jargon when they work with customers. They believe that people should never overspend on audio and video equipment that they don’t need.

Their systems can control music, television, home security, and more from a single smartphone — no need for multiple remote controls. They say it is simpler and less expensive but has to be wired and installed correctly, which is where people need expertise. “It is not as simple as just buying a product,” Bret said. “If it is not connected right, nothing works.”

That’s why the Hanceys focus much of their business on providing residential and commercial technology consultations. “Knowledge is big in this industry, and there are a lot of people who are not familiar with what it takes to get this done.”

Lynn’s Audio Video is committed to the Cache Valley community and has responded to the growing crisis in the world as quickly as possible. Their services have not changed, and they are still providing on-site installation and service while maintaining personal distancing and taking additional precautions with gloves and masks.

Their policies have always included keeping employees safe at home when they feel ill or uncertain of their health and their facilities have always been kept clean and sanitized daily. They have doubled their sanitation efforts in all public-facing surfaces between customer interactions and sanitize their fleet vehicles every day, stocking them with essential protective equipment.

| 49

YOUR LOCAL HOME THEATER AND SMART HOME EXPERTS Call now to setup a FREE consultation for your new Home Theater and Smart Home system. Expert sales representatives are available to help you with everything from Design to Installation.

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50 | Summer 2020

NUM GOURMET DESSERTS:

Taking the Guilt Out of Treating Yourself written by KATE NEELEY,

contributing writer

H

ave you ever dreamed of enjoying a chocolate chip cookie that is actually good for you? Or does your lifestyle or health require you to cut gluten or sugar, essentially limiting your dessert options to air, or … something un-delicious? Then read on.

Brennan Terry’s mission in creating Num Gourmet Desserts is to “take the guilt out of treating yourself.” She wants to make sure that no dessert-lovers are left behind, regardless of their dietary restrictions. “My goal for this whole thing was to get a universally loved treat that every American could get, and every American could have on their table.”

A self-proclaimed sweet lover herself, Brennan knows firsthand how easy it is to fall off the wagon of healthy eating when it means cutting the sweets you love. When she made the decision two years ago to eat Keto, a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet, as a way to improve her own health, you would never have guessed that it would lead to a fastgrowing successful business that is bringing uniquely wonderful treats and smiles to people across the nation.

At the time, Brennan was determined to find a way to create a dessert that fit into her Keto lifestyle to ensure that she would be able to stay committed. “I turned my kitchen into a mad scientist’s lab,” she said with a laugh. There were loads of different types of sweeteners, coconut, and almond flours, and other ingredients surrounding the stove and countertops as she experimented with baking.

“If anyone has tried to bake with specialty ingredients, it’s hard because the flours absorb moisture differently … I’m excited to take that step out of it for people because I’ve spent so long working on my stuff, and I know it’s good.” Initially, Brennan knew that if her kids and husband liked a dessert, it would pass with anyone. But, thousands of happy customers later, her wildly successful business speaks for itself.

Originally, Num Gourmet Desserts was known as Oh Keto Donuts and began with four different recipes Brennan designed herself. One day she took the bold, brave step to sell her donuts to the public. The day she launched her business using social media as a vehicle, Brennan

got her business app all set on her phone to receive online orders and headed out to dinner with her family, wondering if any orders would come through. To alert her, the app would make a ‘ping’ sound when an order came through. Part-way through dinner, she heard one, then another, and not long after, it started pinging nonstop.

So many orders came in that she immediately reached out and hired several people and rented the industrial-sized kitchen at Bridgerland Technology College. What began with four different donuts has now grown and expanded to include a large variety of delicious brownies, cookies, donuts, and even granola. This won’t be the end of it, either.

She is constantly working to develop even more options. The amazing thing is that Brennan’s treats reach a wide audience of people who normally have to bow out of the decadent dessert scene, including people with celiac, gluten-intolerance, diabetes, kids with autism who do not tolerate sugar well, or people who just want to decrease added sugar in their diet and still enjoy sweets. It’s a win all around.

For this reason, Brennan saw the need to rebrand, changing the company name from Oh Keto to Num Gourmet Desserts. But why Num? It’s actually based on a happy song her mom would sing when she was enjoying eating something so much that she simply couldn’t contain her joy. Speaking of her mother, Brennan said with a smile, “She is a very expressive eater … she’s one of those people who makes sound effects when she eats.” If you’re not one of those people, try one of the Num Gourmet desserts and you will be.

Where can you find these wonderful desserts? There are a few ways.

They are available to order online at numgourmetdesserts.com, with some pick-up locations along the Wasatch Front. Curiously enough, many people, including some customers, aren’t aware that Num Gourmet Desserts are made right here in Cache Valley.

Plus, here’s the best news! Num is opening a bake shop in Logan near Cafe Sabor, with doors opening to the public in July. The address is 345 Southwest Street in Logan with a signature sweet pink door.

Thanks to Brennan’s hard work and innovation, now the door to the bakery is open to so many more than ever before.

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52 | Summer 2020

Old Grist Mill’s Simple Niche written by EMILY BUCKLEY,

F

or nearly three decades locals, Utah State University students, and even travelers passing through on their way to Bear Lake have known that a consistent bet for a yummy sandwich or a hearty loaf of bread is found at Old Grist Mill.

The bakery, which originated in 1992 by owners Curtis and Charlene Heaton at their 78 East 400 North location in Logan, now has two additional Cache Valley restaurants: one at 981 South Main Street and a new location at 10 South Main in Smithfield.

“Very few remember the days when bread was made naturally,” the Old Grist Mill website states. “When the wheat was ground into fresh flour and the recipes were simple and contained only necessary ingredients. Here at Old Grist Mill we have brought back the natural art of making bread.”

Originally known for their bread alone, they’ve added cookies, muffins, bagels, sandwiches, and scones to their menu over the years. “A lot of the things we’ve added have been customer or employee suggestions,” ValDee Christsensen, part-owner and manager of Old Grist Mill said. “Sometimes when Curtis or I travel we will see something that we want to try and start testing recipes.”

ValDee says the best thing about the Old Grist Mill sandwich is that you can eat them every day. “Our focus is on offering clean, healthy food for a good value,” ValDee said. “It sounds cliché, but that is really what we do … it is our

editor in chief

niche. It can get expensive to go out to eat, but we’ve been really conscious about keeping our prices affordable; it’s important to us.”

A day at Old Grist Mill begins at 3 a.m. when the first bakers arrive to start baking bread. More bakers arrive by 4:30 a.m. to prepare bagels before the rest of the crew shows up at 6 a.m. to make cinnamon rolls and cookies. “We finish baking by 10 or 11 a.m., and then we get ready for lunch and spend the rest of the day waiting on customers,” ValDee said. They bake and sell 400500 loaves of bread every day.

ValDee says they have many customers who they see nearly every day. “We are kind of like the bakery ‘Cheers,’” he said, referring to the NBC TV show that ran from 1982 to 1993 depicting a Boston bar that welcomed familiar faces day after day. “We have the regulars who come in every day, and we are always glad to see them.”

When things slowed down during the pandemic, ValDee said they were grateful for local support. “Companies like Schrieber Foods and Lower Foods were buying 200-300 loaves of bread a day to give to their employees,” he said. “They were both helping their employees and supporting us at the same time. It was pretty neat to see.”

Now that things are easing into a new normal, ValDee says they are seeing many families picking up picnic lunches on their way up the canyon. “They won’t go stale before you get there — everything is fresh,” he said.

CHECK US OUT AT ONE OF OUR THREE CACHE VALLEY LOCATIONS!

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54 | Summer 2020

lowest PALMER HOME FURNITURE GUARANTEES THE_____ FURNITURE PRICES IN CACHE VALLEY written by EMILY BUCKLEY,

I

n 2003 Brett Palmer was teaching school in Toole when a friend in the furniture business suggested he start selling mattresses on the weekends. He took him up on the opportunity and got a small warehouse in Logan — that was 17 years ago and, as they say, the rest is history.

“This is where my wife and I met and went to college,” Brett said. “We have always loved Cache Valley! Selling mattresses and furniture was a great way for us to be able to raise our family in the valley we love.”

An owner-operated wholesale and retail business, Palmer Home Furnishings strives to offer the absolute best prices on mattresses and furniture. “Our claim to have the ‘best price’ is no cliché or jingle, it is the primary goal of our company,” Brett said. “We’ve always guaranteed the lowest prices in the valley and we always will! I’m a competitive person, so this challenge drives me. We want our customers to know that we will get them the best quality at the fairest price. Another thing that sets us apart is low-pressure, hands-off salespeople. Our employees are helpful and knowledgeable without being forceful or annoying. When you walk in our doors, we want you to feel comfortable.”

Brett and his wife, Valerie, say the furniture business is timeconsuming, but it is worth it. “We love what we do!” Brett said.

Brett and Valerie Palmer and family

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An exciting transition for the company is coming up this June when they will merge Palmer Home Furnishings with Mountain Ridge Furniture. “An opportunity arose for us to merge,” Brett said. “We were outgrowing our building on 10th West, so the timing is just right.

We look forward to joining all the brands the two stores offer while maintaining both customer bases.”

Palmer sells products from dozens of manufacturers and most of them are American made. “That’s important to us,” Brett said. “We also specialize in Malouf products which are popular, partly because they come from right here in Cache Valley.”

Brett says he hopes his customers have shopped around before they visit his store. “If you have, then you’ll see why you should buy here: our prices!” he said. “We can also get just about anything you are wanting. We love to do special orders and help you design exactly what will suit your needs.”

Customer relationships are important to Brett. “It is wonderful to see the same loyal customers year after year,” he said. “They know that they can count on us to deliver what they need at the lowest price. It’s also fun to meet new customers who are just discovering what we’re all about.”

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56 | Summer 2020

School Director Devri Ficklin enjoys teaching future professionals.

BEAUTY SCHOOL EDUCATES AND SERVES COMMUNITY written by TARA BONE,

contributing writer

T

hough Paul Mitchell the School in Logan has a new location at the Cache Valley Mall, the locally owned and operated school’s principles of service and quality education are the same as they’ve always been. In fact, there’s more to this beauty school than what initially meets the eye.

Devri Ficklin, Logan’s Paul Mitchell the School director, has worked with Paul Mitchell for 18 years, six of those at the Logan school. Devri says the school has changed the lives of students and provided a world of opportunity for graduates.

The key to their success is top-notch education and community service.

“Our number one goal is quality education,” Devri said. “We have graduated a lot of successful stylists and salon owners. We are dedicated to excellence of education and serving the community.”

The school has between 80-90 students, nine program educators, and a total of 16-18 employees. Programs offered at Logan’s Paul Mitchell the School includes cosmetology, barbering, esthetics, nails, and teacher training.

The school has placed stylists throughout Utah and all across the nation, including cities in Georgia, Florida, Nevada, and California. Devri said it’s been exciting to watch the reputation of the school grow and see students meet their goals. Before coming to Logan, Devri traveled as a success coach for Paul Mitchell, but says she’s a “teacher #1.”

“I love to see students who are brand new and watch them take baby steps to success,” Devri said.

Over the years, some of the school’s students have overcome adversity to pursue their dreams and graduate after working with the Logan Paul Mitchell team.

Devri recalls a student who served jail time before making positive life changes and today owns a thriving day spa.

Devri believes the school’s success can be attributed to the fact that students are held to high standards and that service is intertwined in everything that’s done at the school.

“Our job as a beauty industry is to get out and serve the public,” Devri said. “We are here to serve.”

And serve they do. Each year the school sets a goal to raise between $15,000 and $20,000 for two local community charities and funds to help students with extra education, counseling, or other approved needs that don’t include tuition.

Funds from last year and this year will be donated to Little Lambs Foundation and The Family Place.

This year’s funding season, which typically runs from February to April was cut short due to COVID-19. The school had raised $12,800 between February and March 18. Since returning on May 12, they’ve picked up right where they left off to meet their goal.

Throughout the year, the school does other community fundraisers. These include cut-a-thons, bake sales, glitter and face-painting booths at the county fair, and even a Charles Dickens' Christmas program. For the holiday fundraiser, students transformed the school into a walk-through of Dickens’ London. Devri points out that the school covers the cost of all fundraising efforts, so 100% of all proceeds go to the fundraisers.

Devri says the students’ favorite service is providing haircuts and manicures for residents at Logan’s Terrace Grove Retirement Community and The Black Smith Fork Assisted Living Center in Hyrum. She says it’s the thing students have missed the most during the COVID-19 pandemic.

COVID-19 temporarily closed the school, but Devri says their instructors met the challenge, and classes kept going. Online classes were offered to students since March 24.

When students return, the school will take extra precautions to keep students safe, and when doors open to the public guests will visit the new facility. Devri says they will experience the best and “the pedi sinks will knock your socks off!”

Visit paulmitchell.edu/logan for more information about service hours.

Each year Paul Mitchell the School in Logan sets a goal to raise between $15,000 and $20,000 for two local community charities. Funds from last year and this year will be donated to Little Lambs Foundation and The Family Place. Students also enjoy serving residents at local retirement and assisted living centers.

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NOW OPEN IN THE CACHE VALLEY MALL! Accepting appointments for guests beginning in June.

Call to check hours or make an appointment.

435.752.3599

paulmitchell.edu/logan All services performed by students under the supervision of an instructor.

Get 30% OFF any service or product Excludes hydrofacials, microderm, and microneedle.

Expires September 1, 2020.

58 | Summer 2020

ROCKY MOUNTAIN DERMATOLOGY WELCOMES MOHS SURGEON JARED HEATON, DO written by EMILY BUCKLEY,

editor in chief

J

ared Heaton, DO, a board-certified dermatologist and a member of the American Society of Mohs Surgeons, recently joined the medical team at Rocky Mountain Dermatology. He is known across the states of Utah and Montana for his thorough and compassionate care and for helping people enjoy healthy, beautiful skin.

In addition to providing life-saving Mohs surgery, Dr. Heaton treats a variety of dermatological issues, from skin cancer diagnosis to moles, warts, acne, and everything in between.

Mohs is a precise surgical technique used to treat skin cancer. “It is mostly indicated for head and neck surgery, and has a very high cure rate,” Dr. Heaton said. “It is a way of processing the tissue while the patient is still in the office to ensure that no cancer is left behind. This way you can take a small margin of tissue and progressively remove more until only cancer-free tissue remains.”

According to skincancer.org, Mohs has a 99% cure rate for skin cancer that has not been treated before, and up to a 94% cure rate for skin cancer that has recurred after previous treatment.

Dr. Heaton says that dermatology is an especially rewarding field of medicine because of the visual results patients can see. “In most aspects of medicine people can’t physically see their problem,” he said. “If you have a cancer on your face, you can see it. There is a very high patient satisfaction to dermatology which in turn makes me happy.”

Additionally, Dr. Heaton says he enjoys the creativity and uniqueness of treating individual patients. “It is not a redundant kind of work,” he said.

As Dr. Heaton practices medicine, he says he holds himself to the highest standard, always asking himself what he would do if his patient were his own family member.

He is happy to be at Rocky Mountain Dermatology. “Dr. Young [the lead physician at Rocky Mountain Dermatology] was my dermatologist when I was in college,” Dr. Heaton said. “So, I knew firsthand and had also heard of his great reputation. Since being here, I have been additionally impressed with the concern the [office management] has for the well-being of their patients and employees. There is a strong emphasis on patient care and doing the right thing for them all the time, which makes me feel really good.”

For an appointment with Dr. Heaton, contact Rocky Mountain Dermatology at (435) 238-4057.

THREE TIPS TO PROTECT YOUR FAMILY FROM SKIN CANCER Utah has the unfortunate distinction of having the highest melanoma rate in the United States — almost double the national average. According to the Utah Department of Health, the rate continues to rise, doubling in the past 17 years, from 20 to 42 cases for every 100,000 people. So, what can people do to protect themselves from skin cancer? Dr. Heaton offers the following three tips: 1. Wear sunscreen and UPF clothing.

Most parents will remember to apply sunscreen on their children before swimming or a day at the beach, but reapplication often lacks. UPF (ultraviolet protective factor) clothing is a fantastic, all-day way to protect you and your children’s skin. Still, be diligent about reapplication on the face. Dr. Heaton recommends SPF 30 to 50 and prefers physical blocking sunscreens that contain active mineral ingredients such as titanium dioxide or zinc oxide, which work by sitting on top of the skin to deflect and scatter damaging UV rays away from the skin.

2. Monitor your own skin. Everyone should check their own skin and their children’s skin. Look for moles that change in size, shape, or color and have them checked by a dermatologist.

3. Be aware of your family history. A family history of melanoma significantly increases your risk of melanoma. If a have a first-degree relative who has had skin cancer, you should be checked once a year beginning around the age of puberty, otherwise, you can wait until you are in your 20s for regular skin cancer screenings.

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to pay for an office visit? First-timers can get free skin assessments.

8— STAFF You hear it all the time, but at Rocky Mountain Dermatology it is really true: We have an exceptional staff!

9— SUCCESSFUL We’re not the biggest skin care provider in Northern Utah because we’re bad. We are really good at what we do.

10— INTEGRITY Dr. Robert Young started this practice with one patient and has earned each and every one since. Tens of thousands of loyal Cache Valley patients can’t be wrong.

60 | Summer 2020

THOMSON FAMILY ORTHODONTICS GIVES TEACHERS NEW SMILES written by EMILY BUCKLEY,

editor in chief

A

t the end of the 2018-2019 school year, long before anyone knew the wild pandemic/virtual education ride that was ahead, Thomson Family Orthodontics decided to send out a special offer to local teachers: Free Invisalign to the first 10 responders, no strings attached!

“We didn’t know what kind of response we would get, but within an hour every spot was filled,” Dr. Brady Thomson said. “We took down others’ names and decided we wanted to do something more. We were able to offer heavily discounted pricing for dozens of additional teachers.”

Dr. Thomson said he and his staff are always looking for ways to get involved in the community, and that includes giving back to the community. “I grew up here, I went to school here, and I have three kids in school,” Dr. Thomson said. “I have a great appreciation for teachers. We already knew they are some of the hardest working people in their industry, but over the year, as they’ve been coming into the office, we’ve heard stories about how they have gone above and beyond to help individual kids. They really are amazing, and it has been really rewarding for us to serve them in this way.”

Christine Bingham, a teacher at Providence Elementary, was one of the beneficiaries of the program. “I was so excited to be able to have this done,” she said. “I have put $16,000 into all of my children’s teeth and I probably would have never come and had my own teeth straightened. It was a wonderful opportunity; now it was my turn! I have been so happy and grateful — what a confidence booster!”

Kelliann Brown, a teacher at Canyon Elementary in Hyrum, agreed. “When you work with kids, they notice everything, and they aren’t afraid to tell you,” she laughed. “I was never self-conscious until I became a teacher. I have been so appreciative of this gift that really has given me new confidence as I teach.”

Ali Adare, a teacher at Mountain Crest High School, said she had already been looking into having orthodontic work done before receiving the email, but was feeling discouraged that it was going to be an expensive and difficult process. “I quickly responded to the email and felt like I had won the radio show,” she said. “I was amazed that there was no catch. This has been a huge blessing for me. Dr. Thomson has been able to do work that another orthodontist said couldn’t be done with Invisalign. Also, his

staff made me feel like an MVP every time I came in, just because I was a teacher.”

That positivity was something that teacher after teacher noted about Thomson Family Orthodontics. So, what is the secret? Dr. Thomson says it is part of the job. “When I left the Air Force and decided to start my own practice, I wanted a big focus to be on how people feel when they are in my office receiving orthodontic treatment. Positivity is a requirement for working here; it is part of the job. As a team we talk about how we can deliver P.I.E. (positive influence every day) — it’s our secret sauce!”

Thomson Family Orthodontic treats between 500 and 600 new patients every year, and Dr. Thomson says he finds great satisfaction in helping patients get confident smiles. “A smile is one of the first things a person notices about another person — it is truly an expression of the way someone feels,” he said. “I believe when someone has a confident, beautiful smile they feel that way. So, it is really rewarding to give someone a smile they feel they can use all day long.”

More words of gratitude from teachers: “Dr. Thomson and his staff were awesome! They were always happy and positive and I have seen amazing results.

It's something I have always hoped to do, but it has never been in the budget. To have this opportunity was really great.”

Maria Thorton, South Cache Middle School “I would have never been able to afford something like this. If I had the money, it would have been spent on my kids. Dr. Thomson and his staff are amazing!”

Dena Session, Green Canyon High School “What a great program! My teeth weren’t terrible, but I have absolutely loved the feeling of looking in the mirror and seeing them all straight.”

Rob Thomson, Ridgeline High School “I am super grateful! I have always been self-conscious about my teeth, so to get this opportunity has been amazing.

It has been a big confidence booster for me. The people at Thomson Family Orthodontics are great – they knew me by name and asked about life every time I came in. They really made me feel welcome.”

Kelli Babbit, Lincoln Elementary

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+

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Not sure how to talk to your child about a pandemic? Here are some ideas from SafeKids.org:

62 | Summer 2020

Pediatricians Continue Top Medical Care and Warn of Anxiety, Depression, and Loneliness Among Young Patients During Pandemic written by EMILY BUCKLEY,

editor in chief

O

n an ordinary day prior to March 13, the waiting room at Treehouse Pediatrics in North Logan would be bustling with patients — children playing with the toy kitchen and train track, teens looking at their smartphones or watching a movie, and parents keeping a watchful eye as they all wait to be seen by their trusted physician. But for the nearly three months since COVID-19 made its first appearance in Cache Valley, the waiting room has sat silent. Instead patients have texted from the parking lot to let the office staff know they have arrived and then they’ve been escorted directly to their freshly sanitized exam rooms to avoid the potential spread of any infection. Once inside the exam room, things get back to normal — as physicians and nurses offer the same dedicated care they’ve been providing to Cache Valley families for over a decade.

“Our practice has definitely been affected by the coronavirus,” Ryan Bell, M.D., said. “We have made significant changes to minimize exposures for patients coming to the clinic.”

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, health officials have encouraged patients to keep their regular doctor visits, get vaccines on regular schedules, and seek prompt care and medical input for illnesses or other concerns.

“We are here to help in any way we can,” Dr. Bell said. “Like many things, it is difficult to predict the future and what changes will persist beyond the next few months, but we will continue to reevaluate how to keep our patients as safe and healthy as possible.”

COVID-19 has affected families around the world in unique ways, and the medical community continues to learn more about the virus as time goes on.

“Fortunately, the virus has consistently caused only mild symptoms in the pediatric population worldwide in almost all cases,” Dr. Bell said. “We have had very few positive cases in our valley’s pediatric population. Our major concern with kids and this virus is the fact that they can be carriers and spread it to other higher-risk populations, especially those with pre-existing medical conditions or advanced age.”

Additionally, pediatricians have concerns that their patients are being affected by the byproducts of the virus itself. “We have seen an increase in the number of our patients that are dealing with some degree of anxiety, depression, and feelings of loneliness and loss,” Dr. Bell said. “With restrictions slowly being lifted we are hopeful that this trend will reverse. Maintaining open communication with your children is the most important way to understand how each individual is handling the changes that have come over the last few months. If you are concerned about your child and their response to these changes, please don’t hesitate to visit with your pediatrician or with a licensed mental health professional, often some measure of counseling and open dialogue can be reassuring and give them the tools they need to manage the difficult situations that our kids have been asked to deal with.”

FIND OUT WHAT YOUR CHILD ALREADY KNOWS. • Ask questions geared to your child's age level.

For older kids, you might ask, "What are you hearing about coronavirus? What questions do you have?" For younger children, you could say, "Do you have questions about the new sickness that's going around?" This gives you a chance to learn how much kids know — and to find out if they're hearing the wrong information. Follow your child's lead. Some kids may want to spend time talking, but if your kids don't seem interested, that's OK. OFFER COMFORT AND HONESTY. • Focus on helping your child feel safe but be truthful. Don't offer more detail than your child is interested in.

• If your child asks about something and you don't know the answer, say so. Use the question as a chance to find out together. Check the Centers for Disease Control website for up-to-date, reliable information about coronavirus.

• Speak calmly and reassuringly. Explain that most people who get sick feel like they have a cold or the flu. Kids pick up on it when parents worry, so speak in a calm voice and only share facts.

• Give kids space to share their fears. It's natural for kids to worry, "Could I be next? Could that happen to me?" Let your child know that kids don’t seem to get as sick as adults. Let them know they can always come to you talk about what scares them.

• Know when they need guidance. Be aware of how your kids get news and information, especially older kids who go online. Point them to age-appropriate content so they don't end up finding incorrect information.

HELP KIDS FEEL IN CONTROL. • Give your child specific things to do to feel in control. Teach kids that getting lots of sleep and washing their hands well and often can help them stay healthy and help stop viruses from spreading to others.

• Talk about all the things that are happening to keep people safe and healthy. Kids might be reassured to know that hospitals and doctors are prepared to treat people who get sick and that scientists are working to develop a vaccine.

• Put news stories in context. If they ask, explain that death from the virus is still rare, despite what they might hear. Watch the news with your kids so you can filter what they hear.

• Kids and teens often worry more about family and friends. If kids hear that older people are more likely to be seriously ill, they might worry about their grandparents. Letting them call or video chat with older relatives can help them feel reassured about loved ones.

• Let your kids know that it's normal to feel stressed at times. Everyone does. Recognizing these feelings can help children build resilience.

KEEP THE CONVERSATION GOING. • Keep checking in with your child. Talking about coronavirus is a way to help kids learn about their bodies, like how the immune system fights disease.

• Talk about current events with your kids often.

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r o f e r a C r e p u S ! s n a m u H r e p u S Bruce O'Very, M.D. Russel McKenna, D.O. Ryan Bell, M.D. Crystal Burtis, PA-C

We specialize in caring for the entire family from newborns to adults. Whether you are seeing us for a routine check-up or to be treated for an illness, our staff is dedicated to giving you the best care and service available.

435-750-5599

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64 | Summer 2020

VISIONARY HOMES CONTINUES TO

LOOK TO THE FUTURE written by EMILY BUCKLEY,

editor in chief

J

eff Jackson and Justin Cooper merged their individual home building companies to form Visionary Homes in 2004. They shared ideals for providing uncompromising quality, integrity, and craftsmanship, and had combined experience to build what they believe is the best home available. Their portfolio includes three brands: Visionary Homes, Mount Sterling Custom Homes, and Ironwood Construction, a commercial arm.

“We are both homegrown,” Justin said. “We started small, building one or two homes a year, and have grown it to where we are now.”

Where they are now is a leading builder in Cache Valley and beyond, producing 530-550 homes this year and employing about 130 people, with an additional 1,700 subcontractor employees working on their job sites on any given day.

As the pandemic hit, Jeff and Justin made the decision to take all the precautions they could to keep their employees and customers safe and continue moving forward.

“When we look at our business, we have to look at the

future,” Justin said. “Our product takes awhile to get to the market, so our focus has to be on what six months from now looks like. We know that when we come out of this, people are still going to want homes — they still have to have homes — and we will be ready.”

Jeff and Justin said it is important to them to not only keep their own employees working in their offices, but also to consider the trade workers that they have longstanding relationships with and ensure they can keep working too.

“With every challenge comes opportunities to learn,” Jeff said. “We’ve learned an awful lot about how to go virtual. We’ve had to change over some internal structures, which are things we will continue to do as we continue to expand across the state. This has helped us to get there a little faster.”

Families are spending more time than ever inside the walls of their homes and the Visionary Homes team is ready to create and build a place where memories can be made, and moments can happen.

“It is still a great time to buy,” Justin said. “Interest rates are at historic lows.”

THANK YOU, CACHE VALLEY! Visionary Homes would like to thank all the safety and medical workers and the public for being wise and compliant.

“Cache Valley people — and Utah people as a whole — have responded quickly and complied with guidelines to keep our community and state safe,” Justin said. “The result is that we haven’t been hit as hard as we could have been, and we are seeing a quicker recovery. Thank you for what you have done!”

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66 | Summer 2020

Dentistry with a Side of Empathy written by EMILY BUCKLEY,

editor in chief

D

r. Kurt Vest, DMD, recalls sitting in the dental chair of his grandfather as a child and having bit of a “scary” experience. “He was a tough, John Wayne type of guy and I felt like I needed to be tough for him,” Dr. Vest said.

“But he had a really kind hygienist who worked with him. One day, when I was 14 or 15, she asked me if I had ever considered being a dentist. I hadn’t, but her words echoed in my ears, and eventually I started thinking about it. I thought maybe I could be a dentist — even a kids’ dentist and help kids have a positive experience.”

He began his undergraduate studies at Utah State University (USU), still unsure of what he wanted to do, but once he got into a human anatomy class he was hooked. It was a turning point: He knew he had found something that he wanted to do and that he could do a good job at it.

After completing his education at USU, Dr. Vest went to dental school in Philadelphia and completed his pediatric dental residency in Hawaii before returning to Cache Valley in 2013 to practice dentistry. He worked as an associate dentist with ABC Pediatric Dentistry until he and his wife, Dani, opened their own practice, Wasatch Pediatric Dentistry, last year.

“I strive to make the dental experience a personal one, both for my patients [kids] and their parents,” Dr. Vest said. “I want them to feel that I care about them, and I have empathy for them — I’ve had some negative experiences in the chair and can empathize with how that feels.”

He says they have purposefully planned and created a positive atmosphere in everything they do. From how the office is designed to the dialogue his staff is trained to use, kids’ and parents’ experience is at the conscious forethought.

“Kids have feelings, thoughts, attitudes, and impressions just like parents do,” Dr. Vest said. “We try and help kids get through their experience without it being super tough or traumatic ­— maybe our office is even somewhere they are happy to visit.”

When the Vests opened their practice, one commitment they made is that they would not schedule patients so tightly that they felt rushed. They also try hard to work with people’s financial situations. “My practice philosophy is to provide the best possible pediatric dental care to kids and families without the financial aspect being a hold up for them.” One way they do this is through their Wasatch Kids loyalty program for cash-pay patients.

Another unique service they offer is in-office anesthesia performed by a nurse anesthesiologist for treatments that require sedation. For cases that qualify for this kind of care, it helps families avoid the facility fee of a hospital or surgical center.

Dr. Vest says parents should consider choosing a pediatric dentist for their child because of the extra training and expertise they have in children’s healthcare, ranging from child psychology to pediatric cranial facial development. They are also trained to treat children and adults with special needs and have credentials to offer sedated treatment in hospitals.

He adds that babies should be seen by a pediatric dentist within six months after their first tooth erupts or by their first birthday, which many new parents don’t realize is the standard for a lifetime of dental health.

“I tell people I have the best job,” Dr. Vest said. “It is really rewarding and fun to interact with kids and teach them about their teeth.”

After being shuttered for about six weeks due to COVID-19, Wasatch Pediatric Dentistry reopened for routine care again in early May, but they are still taking every precaution to keep their patients safe, including having patients text or call upon arrival and only entering when the staff is ready for their visit, keeping the lobby experience limited, keeping families six feet apart, and wearing personal protective equipment.

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Dr. Kurt Vest

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68 | Summer 2020

Wilson Motor Has Made Car Buying Easy for

77 YEARS AND COUNTING written by EMILY BUCKLEY,

editor in chief

ilson Motor Company celebrates its 77th anniversary this June. During their more than three-quarters of a century of selling cars in Cache Valley they have stayed true to their mission to “make car buying easy!” and have become Northern Utah’s highest-volume car dealer.

Floyd Wilson opened Wilson Motor Company in 1943 at the height of World War II. His original lot at 328 North Main remains their primary point of business, and they have since added a pre-owned superstore at 1140 North Main Street.

“Our business has always been centered around taking care of our customers and that hasn’t changed in all these years,” Nate Wilson, manager of Wilson Motor and fourth-generation family member in the business, said. “You can’t do business in a tight-knit community like Cache Valley for a long time without taking care of your customers. I truly believe our success comes down to treating people the way we would want to be treated.”

Still though, the way Wilson Motor operates has changed over time. “The internet has completely changed the car buying process and we have adopted marketing strategies to stay relevant,” Nate said.

Clair Wilson carried on the family tradition of selling cars when he purchased the business from his father, Floyd, in 1971.

He added Lincoln, Mercury, and Nissan to the dealership, was recognized as Time Magazine’s Quality Dealer, and was inducted into the Utah Automobile Dealer’s Hall of Fame.

In 2009, current owner Chris Wilson bought the dealership from Clair. Chris is a state and national leader in his field of expertise, serving on the New Car Dealers of Utah Association (NCDUA) board of directors for the past five years (most recently as president), is a member of Ford advertising board of directors, and sits on the Nissan region marketing board. Locally, he serves on the Cache Valley Chamber of Commerce board of governors, the economic development alliance, and the legislative affairs committee as chairman of the revenue and taxation subcommittee.

Chris is currently making a bid at Utah State Senate with the campaign slogan, “It’s Time.” On his campaign website, Chris states, “Northern Utah has been a wonderful place to live and own a business, and the people of Cache Valley and the surrounding communities have been very supportive of me and my family.

Giving back to my community through public service isn’t optional. It is the way I demonstrate my gratitude and a vital element of being a good citizen.”

Nate says their family has a lot of gratitude for the opportunity to live and do business in Cache Valley. “The people here are fantastic!” Nate said. “There isn’t a better place to live, work, and raise a family.”

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CACH E VA L L EY ' S HI G H E ST VO LUME CAR D E ALER

CAR BUYING

WI LS O N MOTO R .CO M

70 | Summer 2020

Cache Valley Women’s Center at the Lodge: Stable Quality Care in Every Season of Life written by TARA BONE,

W

hen COVID-19, the fast-spreading disease caused by a new coronavirus made its way to Cache Valley this year, fear of the unknown rippled through communities and caused particular concern for pregnant women worried about how the virus would affect them and their unborn babies. Fortunately, expectant mothers could turn to the Cache Valley Women’s Center at the Lodge where doctors and staff have been a stable and steady part of the community for over 15 years.

Jodi Sickler, the lodge’s office manager, says the bottom line in everything the lodge does is to take care of patients in the safest environment possible.

She says that is exactly what the staff has been doing since the lodge opened in October 2004.

In the early 2000s, obstetrician-gynecologists Dr. Barry Noorda and Dr. Gary Fowers both had individual practices in Cache Valley and started to discuss joining forces to build a place where women would receive quality care in a one-of-a-kind beautiful, home-like environment. The doctors worked to make their vision a reality in the form of Cache Valley Women’s Center at the Lodge. Dr. David Kirkman joined them when the lodge opened, and Dr. Anne Blackett joined the team in 2007.

Others have joined the team, and Jodi says today the team is composed of qualified professionals who care for their patients with compassion. Three experienced physician assistants and a certified nurse-midwife bring a wealth of knowledge to the group. The lodge provides a variety of services that span a woman’s life, from her first exam to pregnancy and menopause.

The Lodge is a busy place that takes a lot of coordination and cooperation among staff members to provide top-notch care. Jodi says on a typical day before COVID-19, between 130-140 patients on average received care there. Though the lodge is busy, staff members strive to make every patient feel at home. Stephanie Fricke is one of those patients.

“I have been with Cache Valley Women’s Center since it opened, and they

contributing writer

have always treated me like I was the most important patient regardless of what I needed to be seen for,” Stephanie said. “What I appreciate the most is that when I’m sick and need to see a doctor they manage to fit me into their schedule.”

When the pandemic hit Cache Valley, expectant mothers still needed health care and babies still needed to be welcomed into the world.

According to Jodi, their entire team promptly adjusted policies and procedures to ensure the safety of patients, staff, and the community.

“When this pandemic started, we didn’t hesitate,” Jodi said. “Our providers and staff knew that our pregnant patients still needed to be seen … We wanted them to feel safe and comfortable when they came to their appointments.”

The lodge immediately communicated to patients that they were following the Center for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines, and they continue to do so. These guidelines continue to evolve and are updated at cvwomenscenter.com. Lodge precautions include the use of face masks and hand sanitizer by patients and staff, spacing between appointments, increased frequency of sanitization for every office area, and limits on those who can come to appointments. Appointments that weren’t emergent were also rescheduled, or completed through telehealth.

Doctors and staff members have successfully worked through the COVID-19 adjustments and will continue to be an integral part of the Cache Valley community. Jodi feels that the center’s success stems from how doctors treat patients and employees. She’s been working at the center for 12 years and says not once has she ever regretted it.

“They [the physicians] treat their staff like family. In fact, they always refer to their office and all of their employees as their office family,” Jodi said.

“They treat their patients the same way. They and the entire staff truly care about the well-being of their patients.”

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72 | Summer 2020

When the World Changed – Again written by KATHY MCCONKIE,

Jon M. Huntsman School of Business at Utah State University

T

here are certain dates and events in history that are seared in people’s memories. Recent dates, at least dates that many still alive remember, include 9/11/01 — when hijacked airplanes crashed into the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and a grassy field in Pennsylvania; 11/9/89 — when the Berlin Wall fell; 6/6/44, or D-Day — when Allied forces invaded northern France in the largest seaborne invasion in history; 12/7/41 — when the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. These were momentous dates — days that changed the world with many heroic and inspiring stories of people who made a difference amidst much tragedy.

amphitheater, maintaining their own version of social distancing to reduce the risk of infection. They soaked money in vinegar, thinking it would sterilize it, and placed it in boundary stones – not to be crossed by outsider or inhabitant – in exchange for food and medicine delivered to them by people from neighboring villages. Families buried their own dead, and there were many of them. Exact numbers are contested, but the church in Eyam has records of 273 people who died from the plague. The town was said to have had about 350 inhabitants, which means that more than 75% of them died. It was devastating.

I can remember all the dates listed above, but I cannot remember the exact date I heard about COVID-19. I do not remember the date when the decision was made to send so many to work from home. I have Googled it, and there is just no definitive date for when COVID-19 changed the world. I think there should be. I want to be able to point to a day, like 9/11, and say, “This is the day the world changed for me.” Maybe we are too close to our crisis. Maybe it will take time. Maybe someday there will be a date, when COVID-19 is far behind us, that we will say that on this day the world changed — again.

Losing loved ones must have been the hardest thing the villagers faced.

Close to Eyam lies a small graveyard surrounded by a stone wall; the locals call it the Riley graves because of its proximity to the Riley House Farm. The graveyard holds the remains of the Hancock family. In August 1666, Elizabeth Hancock, one of the plague survivors, buried her husband and six of her seven children who all died within eight days of each other.

Rector Mompesson’s wife Catherine, who stayed by his side rather than leave with her family, passed away. She was 27 years old. Young and old died; death had no preference.

A less well-known story than 9/11 or Pearl Harbor, but one highly relevant to our COVID-19 situation, took place in 1665-66. It was in September 1665 that the world changed for a small village in Derbyshire, England.

It was the time of the recurrence of the Black Death, the bubonic plague which had killed 50 million people in the 14th century. Thousands were dying in London, but the tiny village of Eyam, 160 miles northwest of London, was untouched. But then the fleas, carriers of the plague, arrived.

They traveled to Eyam in a bale of cloth ordered by the local tailor.

Within a week, his assistant George Vicars, who had opened the bundle of material, was dead, and many others were infected. After several more people died, the villagers, persuaded by the advice of religious leaders (and rivals) Rector William Mompesson and former Rector Thomas Stanley, reluctantly made the decision to quarantine the village in order to save others in surrounding areas.

Abraham Morton, the 18th member of his family to die of the disease, was the last villager to succumb. It was over. Fourteen months gone; threequarters of the village gone; the rest of the county spared. More than 350 years later, it is hard to know what really happened. It depends on what you read as to whether the villagers chose isolation, or if it was forced upon them, but the fact remains that they stayed put, and the disease did not spread to neighboring towns.

For 14 months, the villagers attended church in a natural outdoor

Fast forward to 2020. We are faced with a pandemic, one that is almost as unknown to us as the bubonic plague was to the Eyam villagers. What can we learn from Eyam? Are we aware of our duty to our neighbors as they obviously were? Can we put our convenience, our ambition, our lives aside for weeks or months so others can have a history? Will there be inspiring stories to tell in days to come of what we did to help stop the spread of this disease? It’s early days still, but let’s all hope our stories are as inspiring as Eyam’s.

NOTE The story of Eyam, the Plague Village, can be found on The Management Minute Home Team podcast, Episode 3, sponsored

by Utah State University’s Huntsman MBA program: https://omny.fm/shows/home-team-podcast/playlists/podcast.

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74 | Summer 2020

Navigating the Market Through a Pandemic written by EMILY MERKLEY,

S PO N S O R E D BY

association executive, Cache Valley Association of Realtors

T

he changes that have been made over the course of the last several weeks have shown us how resilient people can be as we've adapted our lives to make the most out of current situations. These changes, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, have also pushed REALTORS® to think out-of-the-box and get creative when it comes to providing for their clients. Real Estate is deemed an essential business in Utah, so agents have had to adapt to a whole new world of working through restrictions and safety standards as they have continued to help clients buy and sell homes in an evolving market.

Coronavirus has impacted the real estate industry in a big way, and REALTORS® have been quick to adapt to new regulations surrounding how listings are marketed, how brokerage firms operate, and the evolving process of home inspections and closings.

REALTORS® have made every effort to create a safe and clean environment for clients that are both buying and selling a home, and that includes covering their shoes when entering a home, wearing gloves and masks, and even taking care to wipe down and sterilize surfaces in an effort to protect others during home showings.

All these efforts are made to keep the real estate markets moving forward despite the pandemic. In some cases where clients may not feel comfortable or may not be able to leave their home, REALTORS® are taking their clients on digital and live video tours of homes. They have even been working to produce a coronavirus addendum to the real estate purchase contract in an effort to create greater flexibility that takes into account new potential issues throughout the process.

Cache Valley REALTORS® have also been making great efforts to enhance the virtual tours on home listings. This has allowed buyers to narrow their searches, and it also funnels in serious buyers for sellers, while eliminating non-potential properties for buyers. The changes taking place have helped REALTORS® and clients embrace technology in ways that has allowed them to connect virtually and work together to achieve their dreams in the home buying and selling process. Some of the changes, like those being embraced by mortgage companies, may become the new normal, and REALTORS® are ready and able to take this journey with you.

Buying a Home Helps the Economy Buying a home is a substantial economic driver today, and as housing picks up in the coming months, it will be an even stronger recovery force throughout Utah and the country. If you’re in a position to buy a home this year, you can have a significant impact on your local neighborhoods and safely make the move you’ve waiting for. It’s a win-win!

EXISTING HOME. When you purchase an

existing home, you’re generating jobs and income for a lot of people! The average economic impact of ONE home sale in the U.S. is $41,124. With a new construction home, the impact is almost DOUBLE, as that amount increases to $84,724.

NEW CONSTRUCTION. Building 1,000

average single-family homes creates 2,900 full-time jobs and generates $110.96 million in taxes and fees for all levels of government to support police, firefighters, and schools.

JOBS, JOBS, JOBS. Job creation through

housing is broad-based. Building new homes, purchasing new, or remodeling existing homes generates jobs in industries that produce lumber, concrete, light fixtures, heating equipment, and other products that go into a home.

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The Spence’s Pharmacy Story written by SHAUN KLOMP ,

S

pence’s Pharmacy has served Cache Valley for over 35 years. How did the valley’s hometown pharmacy become to be? Here is the story of Spence Klomp, pharmacist: Spence Klomp enjoyed chemistry during his early childhood. During his youth he received a small chemistry set which sparked his interest in science and opened many doors to a lifetime profession. He pursued his passion for chemistry and attended the University of Utah, where he graduated in 1966 with his bachelor's degree in pharmacy. He decided to start his own pharmacy and help his fellow Cache Valley residents with their health needs.

When Spence first started his pharmacy, he had very little money. He was so low on funds that he innovatively decided to stock his pharmacy with empty medicine bottles at first

CPhT, Spence’s Pharmacy

to give the appearance of being fully stocked.

Only when a prescription came in would he order it for the next day for the patient.

Slowly he built up his pharmacy, and Spence’s Pharmacy is now often thought of as Cache Valley’s hometown pharmacy.

Spence passed away in 2013 but even today, we still receive many unique stories about Spence’s kindness and efforts to put patient’s health first.

Today we at Spence's North Pharmacy continue Spence's legacy and passion for pharmacy by helping our patients succeed with their health needs. We continue to support the valley’s healthcare with prescription filling, flu and other vaccines, customized medications in our compounding lab, medication packaging, and a variety of other services.

We are proud to introduce Kristi Hales, RPh, a

certified Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) consultant, to our team. She has completed numerous trainings in hormone therapy that includes a certified designation as a Hormone Specialist from the PCCA C4 course. This specialized training has given us the ability to support hormone therapy at Spence’s Pharmacy, offering the latest information and therapies beyond what typical pharmacies offer.

We also now offer in-depth hormone consultation services and therapy recommendations that include health supplements and regimens, so we can work closely with patients and physicians to have successful therapy outcomes.

We at Spence’s Pharmacy strive for our patients to have the best customer service. Our motto is, “Your Health, Our First Concern.”

76 | Summer 2020

THANK YOU TO OUR

cache valley heroes!

Cache Valley Family Magazine thanks all of the heroes who have kept our community strong during the COVID-19 crisis.