Cache Valley Family Magazine Summer 2016

SUMMER

Exercise Your Mind: READ p. 20

2016

Inside Special Section: Travel Guide p. 10-17 Making a Difference: English Language Center p. 30 Summer Activity Guides Bike & Foot Races p. 35 Classes and Camps p. 36 Festivals & Parades p. 37

It’s that time of year again! Visit cachevalleyfamilymagazine.com to nominate your favorite Cache Valley hot spots.

Best of Cache Valley

AWAR DS

Cache Valley Family Magazine invites you to nominate your favorite local establishments for the third-annual Best of Cache Valley Awards. This is your chance to celebrate the best businesses and services in our community. Winners will be announced in the Fall issue of Cache Valley Family Magazine.

C AT EGO RIES: Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best

Breakfast Lunch Dinner Burger Pizza Dessert Bakery Coffee Shop Ice Cream Shop Salon Health & Fitness Center Gymnastics Program Dance Studio Grocery Store Pediatrician Family Doctor Dentist

Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best

Pediatric Dentist Orthodontist Obstetrician Family Entertainment Date Night Venue Summer Camp Sports Camp Children’s Playplace Preschool Childcare Center Sporting Goods Store Bike Shop Golf Course Theatre Realtor Home Builder Auto Service

Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best

Car Sales Family Photographer Children’s Photographer Park/Playground Hike/Trail Little Kid Entertainment Big Kid Entertainment Birthday Party Venue Rainy Day Fun Adult Apparel Home Décor Children’s Store Furniture Store Annual Local Event Customer Service: Dining Customer Service: Retail

From the Editor:

It has been fun to see local businesses boast their Best of Cache Valley award badges on their business fronts, social media pages and other advertising materials since we began the Best of Cache Valley Awards two years ago. Last year we received over 12,000 votes, so it is no small recognition to be chosen as the best in one of the above categories. I hope you will take the time to vote this year and support the local businesses that make Cache Valley a great place to live. You’ll be helping your favorite hot spots and your neighbors who are looking for the best places to spend their time and money.

emily

What’s INSIDE Featured Stories:

PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Emily Buckley COMMUNITY EDITOR Schae Richards COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Mandy Bagley CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Tara Bone Emily Buckley Sherelle Christensen Troy Christensen Michael Cole, DO Dave Gordon, DDS Erin Griffeth Mike Liechty Jenny Mathews Russel McKenna, DO Emily Merkley Breanne Miller Shaelynn Miller Troy Oldham Heidi Pfaffroth Schae Richards Frank Schofield BreeAnn Silcox Christie Stock Jeff Whipple GRAPHIC DESIGN Rachel Cottrell WEBSITE DESIGN Kite Media Cache Valley Family Magazine is a free, trusted resource designed to inform, serve and enrich local parents and families throughout Cache Valley. Material in this publication is copyright 2016, Cache Valley Family Magazine. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission of the publisher is prohibited. The views expressed in the magazine are the views of the writers and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher.

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

PHONE (435) 764-0962 MAILING ADDRESS PO Box 6831 North Logan, UT 84341 EMAIL info@cachevalleyfamilymagazine.com WEBSITE cachevalleyfamilymagazine.com FACEBOOK facebook.com/ cachevalleyfamilymagazine YOUTUBE youtube.com/cachevalleyfamilymag INSTAGRAM cachevalleyfamilymag TO ADVERTISE call (435) 764-0962 or email ads@cachevalleyfamilymagazine.com

Door-to-Door Sales Safety Tips — p. 6

Home Sweet Home: Preparing for Home Improvement — p. 7 The Seller’s Market — p. 18

A Bright Idea Comes to Kids Summer Movies — p. 19 Exercise Your Mind: READ — p. 20

How Can I Tell if I Have Gum Disease? — p. 22 Summer Safety for Your Family — p. 26 Preventing Summer Injuries — p. 27

Three Keys to Happiness and Success — p. 29

Poor Academic Performance? It Could Be a Vision Problem — p. 32 Beginning Cycling Tips — p. 34

In Every Issue:

Around the Table: From the Farmer’s Wife: Meat & Potato Casserole — p. 8 Safe Families: Plan for a Safe Trip — p. 10 Travel Guide: Staycation and Day Trip Ideas — p. 11 Cache Valley Families Do Disneyland — p. 12 Air Travel Hacks for Kids — p. 16 Road Trip Hacks for Kids — p. 17 Trendy Mom: Traveling with Kids — p. 15 Education: South-End Schools Prepare to Transition — p. 24 Start Next School Year with Success: Keep Your Kids Reading This Summer — p. 25 Making a Difference: English Language Center Springs New Beginnings — p. 30 Family Firsts: They Call it Puppy Love — p. 38

Cache Valley Family Magazine is sponsored by:

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DOOR-TO-DOOR SALES

safety tips “The Music Man” is a classic film beloved by millions. Although the film ends happily, the plot is actually about a “slippery salesman” who cons his way into the homes and hearts of many people.

The “slippery salesman” seems to be a growing problem with door-to-door sales people flooding our valley during the spring and summer months. Doorto-door sales is a legitimate business model, and many sales people aren’t crooks out to scam people; they are working to provide for themselves and their families. However, there are sales people that are aggressive in their tactics.

Here are a few things to know about

Erin Griffeth Cache County Sheriff’s Office solicitors and what you can do to protect yourself: • Look to see who is visiting before opening the door. If you don’t recognize the person, don’t open the door! It’s preferable to speak to strangers through your door.

• Ask to see their business license.

Solicitors must have a business license from the city where they are selling. The city lays out a code of conduct for solicitors when they apply for a business license. If they can’t or won’t show you their license, politely end the conversation and call (435) 753-7555 to report them.

• Don’t crack under the pressure. You have no obligation to buy something “right now.” You can ask them to

make an appointment to come back when it’s convenient for you.

• Reserve your right to say “no.”

The longer you engage in the conversation, the greater the chance you will commit to something. The swift ending of a conversation can stop a crime before it takes place.

• Don’t open your door at odd hours.

Solicitors shouldn’t be knocking on your door before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m.

• Remember that you are in charge.

If you feel intimidated, pressured or threatened at any time, call 911.

The Cache County Sheriff’s Office wants to help you be safe in your neighborhood. We are happy to respond to any calls for assistance.

sweet HOME C a c h e Va l l e y F a m i l y M a g a z i n e | S u m m e r 2 0 1 6

HOME

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How to Prepare for Home Improvement Heidi Pfaffroth Lewiston State Bank

“Plan now for your home’s longevity.”

Start planning now for home repair and replacements so you aren’t surprised when the time comes around. The graphic below shows some estimates (although actual costs may vary) for the expected time until you need to

make repairs or replacements in your home. When you prepare for possible costs, you will be more financially prepared for your home’s future needs.

Let’s start with the exterior. The elements will erode your roof, rain gutters, deck and paint — short of erecting a bubble around your house, you won’t be able to prevent it.

You may also have assets exposed to the elements, such as your air conditioner. You can keep your garage door and garage door opener in better condition by oiling its parts, but that doesn’t mean a replacement isn’t somewhere down the line. If your house is new, most of your external repairs and replacements are probably several years down the line, but it’s important to know the year your house was built or when it was last taken care of if you move into an older house.

One way to make sure you’re ready for repairs is to divide the amount you think you will need (use our guide for an estimate — using the higher number in the range is one way to avoid unexpected costs) by the number of years until you will need to repair or replace. Then make sure you set aside that amount each year until the time comes for repair or replacement. You can try setting up automatic transfers if you aren’t sure whether you will be able to set the money aside.

HOME, HOME IN YOUR RANGE You could save thousands by getting both your construction and mortgage loans through Lewiston State Bank.

That just might be enough to buy your own buffalo!

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Meat & Potato

CASSEROLE Sherelle Christensen sherellechristensen.typepad.com

Summer months can often be overwhelming for a farming family. It seems like there aren’t enough hours in the day to finish everything that needs to be done, and still have a little time to enjoy summer activities with the kids.

We often resort to crock pot meals and casseroles to feed a hungry and tired family at the end of a long day. This recipe is one of our favorites because we usually have all of the ingredients on hand, and it fills everyone up without too much effort.

Meat & Potato Casserole • 3-4 medium potatoes, scrubbed and chopped into small pieces • 2 Tbs. melted butter or olive oil • Salt, pepper, seasoning salt and garlic salt Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Scrub and chop potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Place in a large glass baking dish and toss with butter and seasonings. Place in oven and bake for about 20 minutes, stirring potatoes about every five minutes. Meanwhile, start working on the other portions of the casserole.

• 1 1/2 lbs. hamburger • 1 onion, chopped • 1 clove of garlic, minced • Salt and pepper • 2 cups corn (frozen or fresh) Cook hamburger and add onion and garlic. Add corn and warm throughout. When potatoes are finished cooking, evenly spoon hamburger and corn mixture over the top.

• 1 can cream of mushroom soup • 1 can cream of celery soup • 1/2 cup milk • 3 Tbs. dry onion soup mix • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Combine soup ingredients in a mixing bowl and stir until smooth. Spread evenly over top of hamburger/corn mixture. Sprinkle the top of casserole with cheese and return to oven for about 30 minutes. Enjoy!

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Plan for a Safe Trip Christie Stock, president Discount Tire

Over the river and through the woods to grandmother’s house we go! Yes, indeed, it’s that time again for warm weather and happy travels. Wherever your adventure leads, before hitting the road, it’s always best to be prepared. Here are some handy tips to use in order for your journey to be a happy and safe one.

• Car maintenance: Before going on a trip is the perfect time to have your car looked over. Be sure to check tires, including spares, battery, belts, fluids and the air conditioner. It’s also important to note that in the event you’re driving in a hot climate or towing a boat or trailer, you may need a motor oil with a higher viscosity.

• Emergency preparedness: Make sure your car is packed with essential items needed in case of an emergency, such as water, warm blankets, flashlights, jumper cables, flares, first-aid kit, tools to change a tire, detailed road map (GPS can fail from time to time) and non-perishable food.

• Little passengers: If you are traveling with little ones, check their car seats and boosters for proper installation and wear. As you pack for your trip, plan to intercept the eventual “I’m bored” statement by packing books, toys, games and other fun distractions to keep their minds entertained. Also be prepared to take plenty of breaks to let them stretch and play.

• Plan, plan and more plan: Smart phones are not just for texting and calls. Use it to help make your

trip smoother (as a passenger or when not driving).

Always know the weather at your final destination and every spot along the way. Download useful apps to get up-to-date road conditions (i.e., Utah’s U-Dot Traffic app covers the whole state in road conditions, accidents and weather). Your phone can also be used to find local eateries, fun sight-seeing destinations, and interesting town/city facts. But, remember to disconnect from the digital tool in order to explore and let adventure find you.

Whatever your plans are, remember to be safe and have fun.

“The gladdest moment in human life, me thinks, is a departure into unknown lands.” — Sir Richard Burton

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staycation + day trip ideas You can spend time with your family this summer without breaking the bank. Try a staycation or a day trip.

Here are some places you can take your family close to home.

Bear Lake Are you thinking about a day trip or camping trip to Bear Lake? Try out these activities while you’re there: 1. Cave exploring: The Minnetonka Cave opens for the season in June.

The tour includes a 90-minute, half-mile walk with 400 steps up and down the cave, according to bearlake.org.

2. Horseback riding: Just minutes from Bear Lake, you can enjoy a few hours of horseback riding. St. Charles, Idaho is one of the cities near Bear Lake that offers this

activity. They offer full and halfday trail rides with lunch provided.

Call (307) 885-4868 to reserve a spot.

3. Wildlife viewing: The Bear Lake National Wildlife Refuge is located on the north shore of Bear Lake.

There you can find ducks, herons, sandhill cranes and white pelicans.

The refuge has one of the largest Canada geese producing areas in the Western United States, according to bearlake.org.

Cache Valley Center for the Arts If you’re searching for an indoor activity, try taking your family to the Cache Valley Center for the Arts. At their Summer Art Camp, your kids can enjoy art four days a week for two weeks. You can sign up on their website at cachearts.org. The center

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Shaelynn Miller contributing writer

also offers shows, including dance and symphony performances.

If you’d like to expand your talents over the summer, they also offer music, dance and art classes for all ages. Browse their website to see what classes most interest you and your family.

Hot Springs Take a day trip to one of these hot springs near you: 1. Crystal Hot Springs 2. Downata Hot Springs 3. Lava Hot Springs 4. Maple Grove Hot Springs 5. Riverdale Resort

Logan Canyon Hiking Trails For an easy hike, try the Limber Pine trail in the Beaver Mountain Area. This trail is a one-and-a-half mile loop with views of Bear Lake from several points.

If you want a more difficult hike, try the Steam Mill Hollow trail in the Beaver Mountain area. This trail is five-and-ahalf miles one way.

Raspberry Days Festival Mark your calendar for this year’s Raspberry Days Festival on Aug. 4-6.

This annual event includes the Little Miss Berry Pageant, a craft fair, a parade, a 5K run, dances and fireworks.

For more summer activity ideas, browse local events by visiting cachevalleyfamilymagazine.com/ calendar.

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Cache Valley Families

DO DISNEYLAND

Jenny Mathews contributing writer

The genius of Walt Disney’s dream for the “happiest place on earth” remains uncontested. Yet, high expectations plus too little preparation can equal a somewhat-less-than-happy Disneyland vacation. If you’re thinking of taking your family to experience the magic, we have collected helpful tips from local families who have done your homework for you!

Do not try and do it all in one day: Even if you go when the park is the least crowded, it’s nearly impossible to do it all in one day. In fact, if you can, spread it out over several days with other destinations in between (i.e. museums, aquariums or the beach).

Best times of the year to go: Late January through early February, early May, early September and early November. Best times of the week: Tuesday through Thursday. Best time of day: EARLY!

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Driving to Disneyland? Avoid traveling through busy areas during rush hour. Also, traffic around Las Vegas over holidays and weekends can mean major delays. On the drive home, be prepared for evening traffic in Utah County. Smart travelers keep water and emergency supplies in the car just in case.

There are long stretches with no services.

Where to stay: There are dozens of hotels to choose from within a mile of Disneyland. Some hotel recommendations from local families are the Portofino Inn & Suites Anaheim, Courtyard Anaheim Theme Park Entrance, Red Lion Hotel Anaheim Resort, Residence Inn Anaheim Maingate, Springhill Suites Marriott Maingate and, our family’s favorite hotel, the Homewood Suites Anaheim. Staying at any of the Disney hotels will be expensive, but may be worth it if you are looking for the full Disney immersion experience.

Gear: Here is a list of items we never enter the park without: baby gear (if applicable), baby wipes, band-aids, hand sanitizer, lip balm, plastic zip bags for items that would be damaged by water, rain ponchos or jackets, snacks, sunscreen and water. Everyone must wear comfortable shoes.

Food: We usually plan on a nice breakfast before we leave and pack enough snacks that we only need to eat one meal at a Disney restaurant. Even though there are water fountains around the park, we always bring lots of water. Your

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neighbors’ favorite restaurants and snack bars are: Goofy’s Kitchen (Disneyland Hotel) and Ariel’s Grotto (California Adventure) for the character dining experience, Jazz Kitchen, Taqueria at Tortilla Jo’s and the Rainforest Café in Downtown Disney, the French Market, River Belle Terrace, Royal Street Veranda, Redd Rockett’s Pizza Port and Rancho del Zocalo in Disneyland Park. In California Adventure, you will love Flo’s V8 Café and afterward, a soft serve from the Cozy Cone Motel.

The “must-try” snacks are corn dogs, turkey legs and Dole whips from the Tiki juice bar.

Worth-the-wait attractions: The best rides with no height restrictions are Buzz Lightyear’s Astro Blasters, Peter Pan, Pirates of the Caribbean, Small World and the Tiki Room in Disneyland Park, according to our readers. In California Adventure, we always take the little ones to Mickey’s Funwheel, Toy Story Mania and Turtle Talk with Crush. Riders 40 inches or taller can enjoy Hyperspace Mountain (formerly Space Mountain), Radiator Springs Racers, Soarin’ over California, Splash Mountain, Star Tours and Tower of Terror.

The parks offer Fast Passes, which can help you make the most of your time and spend less time in line. If you’re staying back from your group with a small child, you can get a “rider switch pass” and not have to miss out!

Random tidbits: Disney Dollars: This is the official currency of Disneyland.

You can get it at the bank on Main Street. It works just like cash and helps kids stick to a budget when purchasing memorabilia. Plus, the money features favorite characters.

Bringing baby? Be sure and check out the Baby Center offered in both parks. They have quiet and comfortable areas to feed and change your baby.

Safety tips: Before we got each of our kids a lanyard with our contact info on a card, we wrote our phone number on their arm with a sharpie! Make sure everyone knows where to meet if they get separated. Cinderella’s castle is easy to find. Our meeting place is always the Sword in the Stone sculpture.

Disney employees are trained to take lost children to the Baby Center/First Aid Station.

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THE TRENDY MOM: Traveling With Kids

Summer is upon us, which hopefully means more family time and maybe even a family vacation. As I have been preparing for our first trip as family of six, I have had a lot on my mind. Most people refer to family vacations as a “trip” and less of a “vacation” because of the amount work that goes into getting your little people somewhere. I can see where people are coming from, but this is a wonderful opportunity to strengthen family bonds and make memories.

My hope is that with the right vacation choice, preparation and flexibility, these times can be enjoyable and memorable for everyone.

Going on the right type of vacation for your family is key to having a good time. My kids are 6 years old, 4 years old, 18 months and 6 months, so as much as I know my older kids would love Disneyland, I need to understand that probably isn’t the best choice for my younger kids right now. I need something that allows flexibility like nap time and doesn’t require a schedule. So, when considering your family’s specific needs when deciding where to go, be realistic!

Family trips don’t have to be over the top. You could even plan a day trip to Bear Lake!

The next important thing is preparation. Make sure you have small, simple activities to keep them entertained and enough snacks for the drive or flight (I have learned you can NEVER have enough fruit snacks). Some people buy new activities to make the trip more exciting. I like to get a new movie for the iPad. You know your kids and what they enjoy. They may even enjoy looking out the window a bit.

Earlier, I used the word “flexibility” when traveling with your kids, but really, I mean “patience.” You are going to have to change your plans because that’s just how it goes with kids.

For me, just mentally preparing myself for extra bathroom breaks and food stops makes it so much less frustrating when it actually happens. Give yourself extra time, and be willing to be flexible. Practice patience and remember that even if things aren’t going as planned, you are together, which is the whole point.

Let’s make the most of our family vacations this summer and hopefully create some long-lasting memories!

Breanne XOXO

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Air Travel Hacks for Kids Shaelynn Miller contributing writer

Are you and your family

Scavenger hunt

traveling by air this summer? Make your trip easier with these five air travel hacks for kids.

Keep the kids busy during the flights and layovers with a scavenger hunt.

You can create the list from your own computer and use pictures to help the younger kids.

Mini felt play mat Small toys can be easily dropped or misplaced, especially during travel.

You won’t have to worry about your kids dropping toys if they stick to a board. Try making your kids a felt board for your next flight.

Supplies One travel-size picture frame Adhesive felt (larger than frame) One cardboard or mat board Kraft paper Packing tape

Steps 1. Remove the glass from the frame.

Cut the felt so that about 1.25 inches hangs off each side of the

Here are some ideas for your air travel scavenger hunt: Airplane landing Airport trolley/bus

Flight attendant Flip flops

frame. Cut out the corners in order to fold the felt over the cardboard.

2. Tape felt to the board and place it into the frame, with the felt facing up.

3. Add another piece of cardboard in the back of the frame and seal it with a sheet of Kraft paper and packing tape.

Baby Backpack Boarding pass Book Business suit Computer Delayed flight Earphones/ headset Escalator

Gate number Pillow Pilot Roller bag Safety instructions Security guard Stroller Table Television Walkie talkie

Snack pack Don’t spend money on expensive airport food; instead, bring along snacks in a small, convenient container.

For longer trips, try packing a lunch.

Don’t worry about it getting warm; ice packs are allowed through airport security as long as they are frozen.

Water bottles full of liquid are not allowed through airport security, but that doesn’t mean you have to pay for water at the airport. Bring empty water bottles, and fill them up once you pass security.

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Movie time “Are we there yet?” Keep your kids entertained with their favorite movie or show.

ROAD TRIP HACKS

If you have movies saved on your electronic device, put the device in a plastic bag and secure it with the tray holder for easy viewing. If you have a larger device, stand it up on the tray table. Don’t forget to pack earphones!

Schae Richards, community editor

Surprise travel bag If you have change to spare, purchase a few small toys and wrap them individually. Either for each new plane you board, or every couple hours, let your child or children open a new present. This will keep the trip exciting for your kids as they anticipate their next gift.

Getting from point A to point B can be a hassle, but with these five air travel tips, your kids will stay entertained during the long flights.

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Is your family getting ready to hit the road? Here are five ideas to help you have a successful road trip this summer.

1. Travel bag: When packing, prepare a travel bag with your kids’ favorite snacks, activity packets and games, and place it over the headrest for easy access. It’s their personal go-to source for entertainment.

2. Activity binder: How do you keep kids “happy” during a 10-hour drive? Fill a binder with coloring books, printables and other fun activities to keep them busy. Give them some colored pencils and crayons, and let their creativity do the rest.

3. Dry-erase map: Have your kids navigate the way to your final destination. Create a map (or print the route from Google Maps), laminate it, and fill a container with dry-erase markers. This will help your kids visualize the progress of the trip, and help them learn something, too.

4. Snack basket: Got the road-trip munchies? Prepare a few favorite treats and place them into a small basket for your kids to snack on throughout the trip.

You can even make some for the adults!

5. Storage caddy: It’s important to stay organized while on the road. Put treats, writing utensils and other materials into shower caddies, and attach the suction cups to the vehicle’s windows. Your kids will be able to access everything within arm’s reach.

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The SELLER’S MARKET

Emily Merkley, association executive Cache-Rich Association of Realtors®

The old adage ‘there’s no time like the present’ rings true for both buyers and sellers in the Cache Valley real estate market. A high demand for housing and a low inventory has created a strong housing market, and regardless of rising home prices, low interest rates allow monthly home costs to remain affordable, making it possible for more and more buyers to become homeowners.

The competition for home buyers can be fierce with a shortage of homes on market, and few offers close without encountering multiple bids. This high demand has created an increase in home prices, but low mortgage rates make the dream of home ownership a reality, as explained by Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist with the National Association of Realtors®: “Even though home prices are climbing far above people’s income, exceptionally low mortgage rates have permitted people to buy a

home without overstretching their budget. For someone making a 20 percent down payment, the monthly mortgage payment at today’s mortgage rates would take up 15 percent of a person’s gross income. Therefore, a middleincome household does not need to overstretch their budget much, if at all, to buy a typical home.”

This type of market has truly put sellers in the driver’s seat. If you have been thinking of selling your home, now is the time to take full advantage of the market and negotiate the most for your investment. Market type depends on area, price range and the type of home, and in the Cache Valley region, these factors all point to a seller’s market. Current inventory of homes for sale is well below historic norms, and the demand for homes, or the amount of buyers, is skyrocketing. These home sales are accompanied by multiple aspects of the real estate transaction that include inspection, appraisal,

8 Home Maintenance Tips for Spring and Summer 1. Examine roof shingles to see if any were lost or damaged during winter.

2. Check for loose or leaky gutters.

Improper drainage can lead to water in the basement or crawl space.

Make sure downspouts drain away from the foundation and are clear and free of debris.

3. Use compacted soil. Low areas in the yard or next to the foundation should be filled with compacted soil.

Spring rains can cause yard flooding, which can lead to foundation flooding and damage.

4. Examine the exterior of the chimney for damage. Have the flue cleaned and inspected by a certified chimney sweep.

pricing and financing contingencies, and sellers are poised to hold major negotiating advantages. For buyers, it can feel like being thrown into the ring.

“While so much of the country is experiencing a strong seller’s market, Cache Valley is still transitioning in that direction,” said Jette Youngblood, owner of Youngblood Real Estate, LLC. “Market values are appreciating, inventory is down, and closed transactions are up, and this is all wonderful news, but we are not completely a seller’s market. Offers are still contingent upon financing, appraisals and due diligence. We are experiencing a very healthy market for both buyers and sellers.”

It’s vital for both sellers and buyers to take into account these variances and information. But regardless of your position, it would be beneficial to sit down with a local REALTOR® to discuss arising opportunities. This year is going to be a big one.

5. Inspect concrete slabs for signs of cracks or movement. Fill cracks with a concrete crack filler or silicone caulk. When weather permits, power-wash and seal the concrete.

6. Check outside hose faucets for freeze damage. Turn the water on and place your thumb or finger over the opening. If you can stop the flow of water, it is likely the pipe inside the home is damaged.

7. Have a qualified heating and cooling contractor clean and service the outside unit of the air conditioning system.

8. Check your gas and batterypowered lawn equipment to make sure it’s ready for summer use.

Clean equipment and sharp cutting blades will make yard work easier.

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A Bright Idea Comes to Kids SUMMER MOVIES Jeff Whipple, marketing vice president, Megaplex Theatres

Most children and adults enjoy a fun outing to the movie. Most people, but not necessarily everyone. With a dark auditorium lit only by a giant picture on screen along with massive sound blasting from high-tech speakers, the movie-going experience may simply be too intense for some guests, especially those with special needs. That’s the reason Megaplex Theatres is introducing new “Sensory Friendly” auditoriums at all participating locations for the 2016 Kids Summer Movie Program from Logan to Mesquite.

Sensory Friendly Movies provide an atmosphere in the auditorium designed to be more welcoming and less stressful for families

with children on the Autism spectrum or other special needs. The volume of the film is lower and the auditorium lights are left brighter than in a regular screening. Guests who need to stand, move or make noise during the movie are welcome to do so without worrying about disrupting others. While recording is still prohibited inside the auditorium, guests who need them are welcome to keep their electronic devices turned on.

participating locations for the full 10-week run of the Kids Summer Movies,” said Blake Andersen, president of Megaplex Theatres. “Our goal is to follow the vision of Larry H. Miller and the Miller family and provide all of our guests with the best experience possible.”

“Since we first opened, Megaplex Theatres has hosted a variety of individual screenings and events for those with special needs; however, this is the first time we have dedicated a second auditorium across all of our

Movies will be shown on weekdays (except on holidays) at participating Megaplex Theatres locations starting at 10 a.m. with doors opening 30 minutes before the movie.

The 2016 Megaplex Kids Summer Movie program features 10 of the funniest family-friendly films over the 10 weeks of summer vacation.

Sensory Friendly auditoriums

will start approximately 30 minutes later (about 10:30 a.m.), to allow special needs guests and their families a little more time to get comfortable.

This year’s schedule includes the following movie titles (subject to change): Alvin and The Chipmunks: Road Chip Minions Pan Paddington Hotel Transylvania 2 Home Goosebumps Penguins of Madagascar Shaun The Sheep The Peanuts Movie

FR

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C a c h e Va l l e y F a m i l y M a g a z i n e | S u m m e r 2 0 1 6

Exercise Your Mind:

Local Libraries Encourage Children and Adults to Read this Summer

Emily Buckley, editor-in-chief

If you ask Adam Winger, director of the North Logan City Library, if kids should read during the summer, you’ll get just the answer you’d expect from any librarian, “Absolutely.” If you ask him how to make it happen, you may be surprised by his response.

Adam’s philosophy, and the culture he has worked with his team to create at the North Logan City Library, is all about exploration and fun. “Libraries have more flexibility than schools and other educational spots,” Adam said. “We have the ability to be creative and still tie into reading and education.”

The programs they’ve created range from hosting superhero and princess parties for children to teaching senior citizens to use an iPad. You can check out a tablet reader, state park pass, paddle board or GoPro Camera at the North Logan City Library, use their Maker Space to transfer home movies from VHS to DVD, record a training course or put your scrapbook into a digital format or meet with a group to do yoga or Pilates right in the middle of the library.

“The love of reading happens over the summer, after you shut the text book for the year and chart your own reading course. Kids are going to read in November because they read what they wanted in the summer,” Adam said. “Yet, between the numerous fun things happening in Cache Valley, family trips and the joyous freedom of simply playing with friends, how

do you get your kids to pick up a book in the summer? The secret is to attach reading to some reality in their personal experience.”

The North Logan City Library’s 2016 Summer Reading Program is themed Exercise Your Mind and will be launched on Wednesday, June 8 from 4 to 6:30 p.m. at their over-thetop kick-off party, which is free to the public and includes free bounce houses and snow cones, raffle prizes, entertainment, food and author signings.

Throughout June and July they offer programs for families, children and teens nearly every day of the week.

Some of this summer’s highlights include weekly movies and story

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The North Logan City Library is not alone. Local libraries across Cache Valley have tremendous summer reading programs that make kids want to go to the library, submit reading logs and enjoy fun events.

Check out your community library and keep your kids reading this summer!

There are eight operating public libraries in Cache County. Visit their web pages for operating hours and their programming schedule.

Hyrum: hyrumlibrary.com Lewiston: lewiston-ut.org/Library.html Logan: library.loganutah.org Newton: facebook.com/Newton-TownLibrary-128049847377084 North Logan: northloganlibrary.org Providence: providencecity.com/library Richmond: richmondlibrary.us Smithfield: smithfieldcity.org/library. main.html

times for families, a magic show, Jedi program, reptile show and water party for kids and human foosball, zombie parties and color water fights for teens. These programs are all free and open to the public (you don’t need to be a North Logan resident to participate in their summer reading or other programming).

“We invite people to the library for these activities and the magic happens,” Adam said. “When we host a magic show, we can’t keep our books stocked with enough magic books for weeks. Kids are turning in thousands and thousands of logged reading hours, and they are doing it.

Both Adam and his wife, Tessa, were raised in Cache Valley. Adam spent the beginning of his career as the director of special collections at Stevens Institute of Technology in Hoboken, New Jersey. After Tessa battled through cancer and they had two children, the Wingers returned to Cache Valley to be close to family

and give their kids the same kind of small-town upbringing they enjoyed as children.

As a dad, Adam sees the benefits of making reading fun in his own kids, Mykelle and Evan. “We haven’t had to pull teeth with reading,” Adam said. “Our approach has been

They get curious and naturally want to learn more. They are coming back and talking to us about what they are reading.”

The opportunities available at the North Logan City Library are virtually endless because Adam is open to all ideas. “We go to great lengths to embrace uncertainty and try new things,” Adam said. “I get a lot of credit for stuff happening at the library, but really we have a great group of people who have embraced the philosophy and thrive off changing the institutional culture into what our community wants and needs.” reading is the highlight…it is the reward. We tell our kids, ‘you get to read,’ or ‘yes, you can keep the lamp on 10 extra minutes.’ We are in a library; we are around books.

And, although we may be there for another event, our kids will see something that catches their eye, pick it up and read it.”

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How Can I Tell if I Have Dave Gordon, DDS Logan Peak Dental

G U M D I S E AS E?

Short answer: You can’t, not definitively anyway. Gum or periodontal disease can only be officially diagnosed by a dentist, but there are some things you can look for that could be clues or red flags as to whether you have the condition.

None of these things, individually, mean that a person definitely has the condition, but if you have one or more of these symptoms, you may want to see your dentist to find out for sure.

1. Red, swollen or bleeding gums: This is usually the first indication that something isn’t quite right in your mouth.

Bacteria in your mouth form a sticky plaque on your teeth, and if that plaque isn’t removed periodically by brushing and flossing, it can irritate the gums and cause them to become inflamed. This condition is usually called gingivitis and is fully reversible if caught in time.

2. Bad breath: Remember how I mentioned that there are bacteria in your mouth? Nearly every bad smell you encounter on a daily basis is caused by bacteria, and your mouth is no exception. If bacteria are allowed to set up shop on your teeth (a.k.a. form plaque), they crank out the nasty aromas. Often if they’ve been there long enough, the bacteria can become out of reach of your floss and can only be removed by a professional cleaning.

3. Longer-looking teeth: Bacteria that have been allowed to reside on your teeth for long periods of time cause the gums, and ultimately the bone surrounding your teeth, to become inflamed. Left untreated, the bone can recede or pull back from the source of the inflammation and bring the gums with it. This can result in your teeth appearing longer than they used to. It is important to note, however, that while the gums surrounding the teeth may recede with the bone, they most often don’t. This results in a pocket forming in between the tooth and the gum. These pockets are one of the things the dentist or hygienist measure at your appointment to see if you have periodontal disease.

4. Other risk factors: It is still possible for gum disease to develop over time even if your oral hygiene is good, especially if you have one or more of the following risk factors: Smoking: Smoking not only can cause periodontal disease it also can significantly reduce the chances that treatment will be successful.

Diabetes: Patients with diabetes often show much higher instances of periodontal disease compared with the general population.

Other Diseases: Any disease or condition that affects your body as a whole can increase your likelihood of

developing periodontal disease.

Medications: Medications can often reduce the amount of saliva your body produces. Saliva protects your teeth against bacteria and their harmful effects. If you aren’t producing enough saliva, the amount of bacteria in your mouth can increase significantly, which also increases your chances of developing periodontal disease.

Genetics: If your parents have or had problems with periodontal disease, you are more likely to have problems with it as well.

If you have any of these symptoms or risk factors, a quick trip to the dentist can either alleviate your fears or get you started on the path to get your mouth back to a sustainable state of health. Don’t put it off! The earlier we catch periodontal disease, the easier it is to treat, and the more successful the outcome.

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C a c h e Va l l e y F a m i l y M a g a z i n e | S u m m e r 2 0 1 6

South-End Schools Prepare to

TRANSITION

Mike Liechty, deputy superintendent Cache County School District

The new Ridgeline High School is on schedule and will open in August 2016. This new high school brings a new district grade configuration and boundary adjustments in the south-end of the valley. All south-end administrators, teachers, coaches, secretaries, custodians, cooks and par-pros have been identified and assigned to these schools. If you have questions regarding staffing at any of our schools, please contact the school principal.

The school board approved the following attendance areas: • K-6 elementary attendance areas/ boundaries can be viewed at ccsdut.org under “District News,” select “Bond Projects” Update and open “Approved South Elementary Boundary Map.” • Spring Creek 7-8: College Ward, North Logan, Providence, River Heights and Young Ward • South Cache 7-8: Avon, Hyrum, Mendon, Millville, Mt Sterling, Nibley, Paradise, Petersboro and Wellsville • Mountain Crest 9-12: Avon, Hyrum, Mendon, Mt Sterling, Paradise, Petersboro and Wellsville • Ridgeline 9-12: College Ward, Millville, Nibley, Providence, River Heights and Young Ward The following south-end schools are new, have additions, remodels or upgrades from bond funds: • Millville Elementary: seismic upgrade with new classrooms and gym • Mountain Crest High School: upgrades (new security system, track resurface, network upgrade, VOIP phone system, auditorium carpet, additional ADA entrance, commons area remodel)

• Sky View High School has similar upgrades.

• Providence Elementary: seismic upgrade with new classrooms and gym • Ridgeline High School: new building • Willow Valley (Wellsville Elementary): remodel and add playground School start and end times will change for the south-end schools in August 2016. K-6 schools start at 9:15 a.m. and end at 3:35 p.m. Seventh through eighth middle schools and high schools start at 8 a.m. and end at 2:45 p.m., and continue with the early release on Fridays. The northend schools will change to these same start and end times in August 2017.

For the 2016-2017 school year, North Logan sixth grade students will continue to attend Cedar Ridge Middle School. North Logan seventh and eighth grade students are now attending Spring Creek Middle School and Green Canyon High School for ninth through 12th grade students. .

Ridgeline High School

Providence Elementary

Millville Elementary

The new grade configuration is K-6 Elementary Schools, 7-8 Middle Schools, and 9-12 High Schools.

School Canyon K-6 Heritage K-6 Lincoln K-6 Millville K-6 Mountainside K-6 Nibley K-6 Providence K-6 River Heights K-6 Spring Creek 7-8 South Cache 7-8 Mountain Crest 9-12 Ridgeline 9-12

Principal Stacie Williamson Alden Jack Jenifer Buist Gary Thomas Lynette Rigs Kelly Rindlisbacher Trudy Wilson Glen Harris Blake Pickett Lance Robbins Teri Cutler Bob Henke

Phone Number 792-7684 792-7696 (Spanish Dual Immersion) 245-6442 752-7162 792-7688 752-8303 752-6010 (French Dual Immersion) 753-4948 753-6200 245-6433 245-6433 512-9619

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Start Next School Year with Success: KEEP YOUR KIDS READING THIS SUMMER Frank Schofield, superintendent Logan City School District

As we prepare for the summer, many of us are ready to take a break from the rigors of the school year. I hope you and your children enjoy the coming months of summer vacation, and are looking forward to the longer days and pleasant weather.

success. Out of all the things, the most important is to continue reading. Research shows that summer reading can make a significant difference in a student’s overall academic achievement, particularly when he or she begins a new school year in the fall.

While you and your family enjoy the summer vacation, there are a few key things we all can do to ensure our children are ready to begin the next school year with

As parents, there are a number of things you can do to encourage your child to read and develop strong reading and writing skills over the summer. Some of them include: • Keep different kinds of reading materials at home.

To stimulate reading at home, keep reading materials throughout the house, including newspapers, magazines and brochures.

• Keep some fun things on hand, too, like word games, puzzles or the kids’ section of the newspaper. This will increase your child’s access to books and printed material, providing more opportunities to practice reading.

• Encourage your children to learn new words by introducing them to new words every day. Talk about what these words mean and how they are used.

• Help your children select books at the right level. A good way to decide whether your children are reading books at the right reading level is to have them read from a page in the book that they have chosen (any page but the first page). If they are reading smoothly and understand what they are reading, the book is probably at the right level for them. If they make five or more errors in a passage of about 50 words, the level may be too challenging.

• Allow your children to choose their own reading material, including popular fiction, magazines, graphic novels and comic books. Summer is a time when children can discover the joys of reading, and they will be more motivated if they are reading something they enjoy. If you are concerned about the content of what your children are reading, talk with them about their interests and set some guidelines for appropriate choices.

These few tips can help every student maintain the reading skills they have developed while enjoying the break. I hope you have a wonderful break, and look forward to seeing your children again in August.

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Summer Safety for Your Family Keep your family safe this summer by following these tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

FIREWORKS SAFETY • Be cautious. Even fireworks that are often thought to be safe, such as sparklers, can reach temperatures above 1000 degrees Fahrenheit, and can result in severe burns, blindness, scars and even death.

BUG SAFETY • Use insect repellents containing DEET to prevent insect-related diseases.

• Children older than 2 months of age can use 10 to three percent DEET. DEET should not be used on children younger than 2 months of age.

• The effectiveness is similar for 10 to 30 percent DEET, but the duration of effect varies. Ten percent DEET provides protection for about two hours, and 30 percent protects for about five hours.

Choose the lowest concentration that will provide the required coverage.

• Children should wash off repellents when they return indoors.

• When outside in the evenings or when there are a lot of mosquitoes present, cover up with long sleeved shirts, pants and socks to prevent bites.

BICYCLE SAFETY • Helmets protect from serious injury, and should always be worn.

• Look for a label or sticker that says helmets meet CPSC safety standards.

• A helmet should be worn so that it is level on the head and covers the forehead, not tipped forward or backwards. The strap should be securely fastened with about two fingers able to fit between chin and strap. The helmet should be snug on the head, but not overly tight. Skin should move with the helmet when moved side to side.

ALL-TERRAIN VEHICLES • Children who are too young to have a driver’s license should not be allowed to operate or ride off-road vehicles.

• Don’t ride double. Passengers are frequently injured when riding ATVs. • All ATV riders should take a hands-on safety training course.

• All riders should wear helmets, eye protection, sturdy shoes (no flip-flops) and protective, reflective clothing.

Appropriate helmets are those designed for motorcycle (not bicycle) use, and should include safety visors/ face shields for eye protection.

• Young drivers should be discouraged from on-road riding of any two-wheeled motorized cycle, even when they are able to be licensed to do so, because they are inherently more dangerous than passenger cars.

LAWN MOWER SAFETY • Use a mower with a control that stops the mower blade if the handle is let go.

• Children younger than 16 should not be allowed to use ride-on mowers.

Children younger than 12 should not use

Russel McKenna, DO, pediatrician Treehouse Clinic walk-behind mowers.

• Wear sturdy shoes are while mowing.

FUN IN THE SUN Babies under 6 months: • The two main recommendations from the AAP to prevent sunburn are to avoid sun exposure, and to dress infants in lightweight long pants, long-sleeved shirts and brimmed hats that shade the neck to prevent sunburn. However, when adequate clothing and shade are not available, parents can apply a minimal amount of sunscreen with at least 15 SPF (sun protection factor) to small areas, such as the infant’s face and the back of the hands. If an infant gets sunburn, apply cool compresses to the affected area.

For all other children: • The first, and best, line of defense against harmful ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure is covering up. Stay in the shade whenever possible, and limit sun exposure during the peak hours.

• Wear a hat with a three-inch brim or a bill facing forward, sunglasses and clothing with a tight weave.

PREVENTING SUMMER INJURIES

C a c h e Va l l e y F a m i l y M a g a z i n e | S u m m e r 2 0 1 6

BreeAnn Silcox, coalition coordinator Safe Kids Bear River • Use a sunscreen with SPF 15 or greater.

• Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or after swimming or sweating.

• Use extra caution near water and sand and snow as they reflect UV rays.

Summer is one of the most exciting times of the year for kids, but it’s also when they can be at risk for severe injuries.

Safe Kids Bear River recommends the following five tips to stay safe this summer season: 1. Give kids your undivided attention.

Actively supervise children throughout the summer, whether it’s at the playground or in and around water. Small children can drown in as little as one inch of water.

2. Educate your children about swimming safety. Every child is different, so enroll children in swimming lessons when you feel they are ready. Whether swimming in a backyard pool or in a lake, teach children to swim with an adult. Older, more experienced swimmers should still swim with a partner every time.

3. Set up your grill with safety in mind.

Use long-handled grilling tools and position your grill well away from siding, deck railings and overhanging branches, while keeping a safe distance from play areas and foot traffic. Periodically remove grease or fat buildup in trays below the grill so it can’t be ignited by heat.

4. Never leave your child alone in a car, not even for a minute. It can be tempting to leave a child alone in a car while you quickly run into a store, but it can cause serious injury or even death in a matter of minutes.

Reduce the number of deaths from heatstroke by remembering to ACT: Avoid heatstroke, create reminders and take action if you see a child left alone.

5. Wear a helmet for biking and other wheeled sports. We have a simple saying, “Use your head, wear a helmet.” It is the single most effective safety device available to reduce head injury and death from bike crashes. Kids should wear a helmet when riding a scooter, skating, skateboarding or biking.

For more information about summer safety, contact (435) 792-6510 or visit safekids.org.

HEAT STRESS IN EXERCISING CHILDREN • Intensity of activities that last 15 minutes or more should be reduced in high heat or humidity levels.

• Before outdoor physical activities, children should drink freely and should not feel thirsty. Kids should always have water or a sports drink available, and drink every 20 minutes.

• Practices and games played in the heat should be shortened, and there should be more frequent water/hydration breaks. Children should promptly move to cooler environments if they feel dizzy, lightheaded or nauseated.

POOL SAFETY • Never leave children alone in or near water; close supervision is the best way to prevent drowning.

• Avoid inflatable swimming aids such as “floaties.” They are not a substitute for approved life jackets, and can give a false sense of security.

• Avoid entrapment: Suction from pool

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and spa drains can trap a swimmer underwater. Do not use a pool or spa if there are broken drain covers.

• If a child is missing, look for him or her in the pool or spa first.

BOATING SAFETY • Children should wear life jackets at all times when on boats, docks or near bodies of water.

• Make sure life jacket are the right size. Jackets should not be loose, and should be worn as instructed with all straps belted.

OPEN WATER SWIMMING • Never swim alone. Even good swimmers need buddies!

• A lifeguard (or another adult who knows about water rescue) needs to be watching children whenever they are in or near the water. Younger children should be closely supervised while in or near the water —use “touch supervision,” keeping no more than an arm’s length away.

• Make sure your child knows never to dive into water except when permitted by an adult who knows the depth of the water, and who has checked for underwater objects.

• Never let your child swim in canals or any fast moving water.

C a c h e Va l l e y F a m i l y M a g a z i n e | S u m m e r 2 0 1 6

THREE KEYS TO An elementary school teacher asked her students to draw pictures. She noticed that one little girl, who normally didn’t pay much attention in class, was completely absorbed in her drawing. Intrigued, the teacher made her way to the girl’s desk and asked what she was drawing.

Without looking up, the girl said, “I’m drawing a picture of God.” Surprised, the teacher replied, “But nobody knows what God looks like.” The girl responded, “They will in a minute.”

Children are not inhibited by perception and expectations.

We lose this simplicity and confidence as we grow older and, consequently, don’t seem to fully connect with success or happiness. In other words, we work on the “horn,” but avoid fixing the “brakes.” Distraction is a major contributor of unhappiness and lack of success. To keep us focused on “needed repairs” and not easy “fixes,” I suggest three focus areas: 1. Perfect your communication.

2. Set and live your standards.

3. Have a clear and positive perspective.

First, communication is an essential ingredient in life. One key

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Troy Christensen, vice president Bridgerland Applied Technology College

element of great communication is listening. Listening builds our ability to be disciplined and caring. Steven Sample said an average person has three delusions: • He or she is a good driver.

• He or she has a good sense of humor.

• He or she is a good listener.

Second, having a set of standards helps your life have purpose and meaning. We all know basic standards of conduct, but here are two ideas: First create your “rules of the day.” These are things that you will do each day. Here are a few examples: • Find someone doing something good or appropriate and acknowledge it. This helps us to always look for the good in people, and our happiness soars.

• Express appreciation, written and verbal. This also changes perspective. I’m amazed at how a thank-you note can touch hearts.

• Be happy, smile, laugh and joke. Appropriate humor makes life enjoyable even during the roughest times.

The key is to think about “who” you want to be and how to become that person. You can do this by doing small and simple things every day to create new behaviors. Use the “six second rule:” If you have a correction, criticism, complaint or something negative to say, you have six seconds to do it. We spend far too much time “driving home” the point to make sure people understand what they did wrong or what needs to be corrected.

Acknowledgment of the problem is needed and appropriate, but elongated shame creates animosity and discord. The “six-second rule” is a simple, effective way to strengthen relationships.

Lastly, having a positive perspective changes how we see the world. The picture below illustrates what I refer to as the “rhino principle.” He is painting the beautiful things around him, but one thing seems to take focus: his horn. Sometimes we allow certain aspects of our lives dominate and distort our view that we miss the beauty around us. We define ourselves by this “horn” and can’t seem to move past it. Bad things happen, but don’t let them ruin your view. Keep an optimistic perspective, and you will see beyond the “horns” that could easily distort your view of the world.

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Making a Difference: ENGLISH LANGUAGE CENTER SPRINGS BEGINNINGS Schae Richards, community editor

A classroom is full of students of

The English Language Center of Cache Valley is a non-profit organization in North Logan that serves adult immigrants through instructional courses on English.

Katie’s vision for the organization came true as it has and continues to influence the lives of hundreds of immigrants each year. Since founded in 1998, the English Language Center has secured a local facility where its students can learn in a safe environment. “Some of these students have been through horror stories you can’t imagine,” she said.

“The English Language Center is a safe place for them.”

Katie Jensen, co-founder of the English Language Center, said the organization started as a simple idea with a special purpose in mind. “We wanted it to be a place of love and understanding,” she said.

The English Language Center is made up of 80-90 different courses taught throughout the year, ranging from preliterate to pre-university English level classes, to U.S citizenship preparation, to basic computer literacy classes, to

different nationalities. The students talk to each other. They work together. They leave the classroom together. They eat lunch together. To each other, they are the same.

C a c h e Va l l e y F a m i l y M a g a z i n e | S u m m e r 2 0 1 6 basic life skills instruction.

The English Language Center also offers students real-life experiences through local field trips, and through their student council, which is in charge of organizing their annual family picnic.

Katie said the English Language Center is helping people achieve things that once seemed impossible. One

student immediately comes to her mind.

Sadio, an immigrant from Somali, is a student who has greatly benefited through her experience at the English Language Center.

When expecting her eighth child, Sadio fled from her home to a refugee camp, leaving everything behind.

Sadio was eventually able to

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move to the United States for a fresh start with her children. When she first came to English Language Center, she had no knowledge of the English language. Sadio now participates in the level two English class, has a job and is able to go about her day-to-day tasks comfortably.

students have not had the opportunity to have education in their life, or have had very limited education,” she said.

“We see them get jobs; we see them communicate with their children; we see them go to college or attend a job training program; we see their dignity restored.”

Many other students at the English Language Center have similar success stories. “These

Katie said the English Language Center continues to build relationships between its students while creating a stronger community. “In any given class, you may have people from 15 different countries,” she said. “Our students tell us, ‘All our lives, we were told to hate people from this country, but now we know this person and we see they are good.’ That’s how you change the world.”

Discover opportunities at the English Language Center by visiting elc-cv.org.

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C a c h e Va l l e y F a m i l y M a g a z i n e | S u m m e r 2 0 1 6

Poor Academic Performance?

It Could Be a VISION Problem Michael Cole, OD, optometrist Child and Family Eye Care Center

When you have a bright child who doesn’t achieve his or her potential, we often affectionately call them “underachievers” because we know they are capable of achieving so much more. While they may be able to slide by with what they learn by listening, reading can be a nightmare.

Over the years, I have found that bright “underachievers” often have vision problems which make reading difficult.

Sometimes they are described as auditory learners because they can remember things they have heard much faster and easier than anything they read. A clear sign that a vision problem may be at the root of your child’s difficulties is poor performance on written or standardized tests.

It may surprise you that many children who have vision problems interfering with learning actually have 20/20 eye sight (with or without glasses). This is because 20/20 eyesight means you can see a certain size letter at a distance of 20 feet, whereas vision is a complex process that involves 17 visual skills, which are critical to academic success; and seeing 20/20 is just one of them.

More than 60 percent of children who struggle with reading and learning have vision problems, which are typically correctable. Yet when undetected, these children continue to struggle, don’t reach their potential and perform poorly on standardized tests.

One of the easiest ways to identify children who have a visual component to their challenges is to compare their verbal performance to their reading and/or writing performance. For example, many parents will tell me that they can’t understand why their child is so bright when they talk with them, yet reading and academic performance doesn’t reflect their true abilities.

The following are some additional signs that your child may have a vision problem that is contributing to his or her difficulty with reading and/or learning: • Skips/repeats lines when reading

• Poor reading comprehension • Homework takes longer than it should • Headaches at the end of the day • Trouble keeping attention on reading • Difficulty completing assignments on time • Difficulty copying from board • Burning, itchy, watery eyes • Tilts head/closes one eye when reading • One eye turns in or out • Avoids work/reading • Holds reading material too close If your child has any of these symptoms, there is a strong possibility that a treatable vision problem is contributing to his or her difficulties. Depending on the depth of the vision problem, these vision problems can often be treated over the summer, which will give your child a better start to the new school year.

The first step to determining if a vision problem is contributing to your child’s learning challenges is a developmental vision evaluation performed by an optometrist who provides an in-office program of optometric vision therapy.

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Beginning Cycling Tips Troy Oldham, race director Gran Fondo

Having made it through another harsh Utah winter, your friends and neighbors are beginning to thaw out by wearing stretchy shorts, tight tops, helmets and disappearing for hours each day. You hear them talk about “Smithfield Canyon before dark” and “making the Tuesday night ride.” At work, you overhear coworkers discussing strategies to get into the lottery (LOTOJA or Little Red), or expressing excitement for the next century ride or Gran Fondo.

It’s likely those same friends are coaxing you into their craziness.

Could this be the year you join them? If 2016 is your year, here’s a list of eight things many cyclists wish they would have known before they joined the sport: 1. Carry food and water. The best way to renew energy is to keep your body properly fueled and hydrated. Best practice is two full water bottles and two snacks.

2. Tubes don’t change themselves. If you ride regularly, you will have to change a flat. The worst time to learn tire repair is when you are on a lonely road, daylight is fading and the battery on your phone is dead. Most bike shops will show you tools, tips and techniques. Carry food, water, an extra tube and a way to inflate the tire.

3. Invest in a bike fit. Whether from the bike shop or a certified specialist, the money spent on a bike fit will save you time, pain and money down the road. It may seem like overindulgence, however, you will be spending time in the saddle, so make sure it is the right height and proper angle.

4. Learn wind. When I was 5 years old, my grandfather told me, “Don’t pee into the wind.” It meant something to me then, and the same principle applies now to cycling. C When you start your ride with a stiff wind to your back, be M prepared to ride against it on the return trip. Go head-in to the wind early, because it’s a lot more fun returning with Y confidence, speed and energy left in the tank.

CM 5. If you are thirsty, it’s too late. Make it a habit to snack and drink during your rides, then refuel afterwards, too. The MY best time to replenish glycogen stores are within the first

half hour after a ride, when your body is working hard to recover. Studies show the best snacks have a 4:1 carb to protein ratio.

6. Don’t be stingy with the butter. Chafing is common and annoying for cyclists, and it can keep you off the bike while you heal. To avoid the “chaff,” wear proper, well-fitting bike shorts or bibs, make sure your seat is properly fitted and apply the lotion liberally. Use cycling-specific ‘Butt Butter.’

7. Hands and head. Don’t pass on gloves, and make sure to wear a well-fitted helmet. Gloves help your grip, keep your digits warm and protect from calluses, blisters and impact if you fall. A helmet is smart and required by law.

8. Learn before joining a group ride. Group rides are a great way to join the sport and make new friends, however, there are specific safety rules all should understand. Start off with someone who is willing to teach you how to properly draft, 2016 Ad forpoint CV Family Qtr page.pdfWorking 1 4/28/16 5:37isPM transition and out obstacles. together a great way to learn.

It is TIME to REGISTER

CY

CMY

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A RIDE FOR EVERYONE: RACER, RECREATIONAL AND FIRST-TIME RIDERS

50 & 100 MILES

Thousands $ in prizes

REGISTER NOW AT:

CACHEGRANFONDO.COM

C a c h e Va l l e y F a m i l y M a g a z i n e | S u m m e r 2 0 1 6

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2016 Cache Valley Race Roundup FOOT RACES May 21 Cache Valley Color Vibe 5K thecolorvibe.com/cachevalley. php May 28 Wellsville Duathlon 2.5-mile run, 18-mile bike ride, 2.5-mile run raceblackops.com/wellsville-duathlon.html June 4 Logan Trails Festival 10K, 5K trail run logandowntown.blogspot.com raceentry.com June 11 16 Crossings Trail Run (approx.

12.4 miles) smithfieldrecreation.com smithfieldrecreation.com/ web/site/Races.html June 17-18 Wasatch Back Ragnar ragnarrelay.com/race/ wasatchback June 20 Bonneville Trail from Green Canyon 10K, 5K trail run ivfitoffroadrunning.weebly.com

June 25 Logan Peak Trail Run (28 mi) buffalorunadventures.com/ logan-peak July 4 Blacksmith Fork Freedom Run 15K topofutahmarathon.com Lewiston Patriot Border Run patriotborderrun.com July 9 Cache Valley Super Sprint Triathlon cvsst.com July 16 North Logan ‘Rockin’ Half Marathon 13.1 M, 5K run northloganhalf.weebly.com July 25 Mendon Pioneer Day Run 10K, 5K run runningintheusa.com July 30 Splash Dash Family Fun Run 5K and mile cachevalleyfamilymagazine.com Aug. 6 Logan Marathon Logan Marathon Relay

Logan Half Marathon Logan 5K loganmarathon.com Aug. 12 EPIC Cache – Teton Relay 205M relay epicrelays.com Aug. 13 First Dam Pancake Run 10K and 5K race-4acause.com Aug. 27 Top of Utah Half Marathon topofutahmarathon.com First of September Wellsville Founders’ Day Run wellsvillecity.com Sept. 17 Top of Utah Marathon Top of Utah Relay Top of Utah 5K topofutahmarathon.com Sept. 23-24 Bear 100-Mile Endurance Run bear100.com Oct. 1 Paradise Half Marathon 13.1 M, 10K, 5K run raceblackops.com

Mid-October Red Ribbon Run 5K, mile walk/ run brhd.org Oct. 29 First Dam Scary Run 5K and 10K topofutahmarathon.com Nov. 19 Smithfield Turkey Trot 5K, 10K and mile smithfieldrecreation.com BIKE RACES May 21 Half Century Ride randywirthhcr.org May 28 Wellsville Duathlon 2.5-mile run, 18-mile bike ride, 2.5-mile run raceblackops.com/wellsville-duathlon.html May 28 Little Red pre-ride bccutah.org littlered.kintera.org June 4 Little Red bccutah.org littlered.kintera.org

June 5 Post Little Red Bear Lake Loop bccutah.org littlered.kintera.org June 25-26 Bike MS Ride bikeutu.nationalmssociety.org July 9 Cache Gran Fondo cachegranfondo.com Aug. 1-7 Tour of Utah tourofutah.com Aug. 6 Ride Around the Wellsvilles (RAW) rotaryraw.com Aug. 16-20 The U5 Challenge theu5challenge.com Aug. 27 Cache Valley Century cachevalleycentury.com Sept. 10 LOTOJA lotojaclassic.com Sept. 23-24 Bike the Bear Century trappertrails.org/bike

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C a c h e Va l l e y F a m i l y M a g a z i n e | S u m m e r 2 0 1 6

2016 Classes and Camps Guide and August. Call to register or for more information.

American West Heritage Center (435) 245-6050 awhc.org Fishing, Hot Shots and Life on the Farm are just a few of our exciting camps. Incoming first through sixth grade students will experience hands-on historic activities. Don’t miss out, sign up today!

SummeR AR Camp JUNE-AUGUST 2016

Cache Valley Center for the Arts (435) 752-0026 cachearts.org/summer-artcamp-for-kids-ages-5-11 Immerse your child in a world of art at our summer camps.

Your camper will plunge into creative, hands-on experiences, including ceramics, cooking, drama, dance, music and more. Space is limited.

Enroll today!

Cache Children’s Choir (435) 752-6260 cachechildrenschoir.org Our summer camp provides quality music education for Cache Valley youth in three levels of choirs (ages 8-16) and two levels of early childhood classes (ages 3-7). It will be held June 13-17 with choir auditions/placement in May

activities full of learning. No sitting in front of the TV – just fun times and new memories!

Cache Valley Fun Park (435) 792-4000 cachevalleyfunpark.com/summer-camp Our camps are the perfect way to beat the summer doldrums!

Your kids will experience fun

Cache Valley School of Ballet (435) 753-3633 opt. 1 cvcballet.org The Cache Valley School of Ballet offers qualified training in classical ballet to community members of all ages and skill levels. Summer semester lasts five weeks from June 13 to July 15 for ages 3 and up.

Visit our website for complete list of classes.

Cache Makers 4-H Club (435)-752-6263 cachemakers.org Looking for fun activities for your children for the summer?

Cache Makers 4-H club will

host a series of camps where youth can learn while participating in a variety of fun STEM activities from Robotics to Coding. Cache Maker Summer Camps for youth of all ages can be found at cachemakers. org.

Dance Illusion (435) 755-6783 danceillusionutah.com We offer four-week summer courses, a three-day Princess Camp (ages 3-8), a three-day Ballet Intensive class (ages 5 and up) and a three-day Technique Intensive class (ages 5 and up). Classes available for ages 3 to adult. Registration for fall and spring classes begins June 6. Space is limited.

Register today!

Lashars Summer Dance (435) 752-4900 lashars.com Performing Team and Combination classes start June 6 for all levels, ages and

abilities. Additional classes and camps include the Princess Workshop on June 17, Kids Summer Fun Camp from July 18-20 and Summer Intensive Dance Camp from July 18-20.

Sports Academy (435) 753-7500 sportsacademy.com We offer year-round SwimAmerica swim lessons. Upcoming sessions start April 5 and May 3. Mention Cache Valley Family Magazine when registering, and get $5 off!

USU Museum of Anthropology (435) 797-7545 anthromuseum.usu.edu Family First Saturday events are held each month. The Archaeology Camp with Stokes Nature Center and Humans & the Environment Camp are held in June.

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2016 Cache Valley Summer Festivals JUNE Art on the Lawn artonthelawncachevalley.net/ Cache Valley Storytelling Festival facebook.com/cvstorytellingfestival Clarkston Pony Express Days facebook.com/ Clarkston-Pony-Express-Day-304574376280001

Logan Trails Festival JULY logandowntown.blogspot.com Best of Cache Valley Festival cachevalleyfamilymagazine.com Millville Fun Days millvillecity.org Cache Valley Cruise-In cachevalleycruisein.net Nibley’s Heritage Days nibleycity.com Hyrum Star Spangled Celebration Summerfest Arts Faire hyrumcity.com logansummerfest.com Logan City Pioneer Day Celebration loganutah.org

North Logan City Pioneer Day Celebration ci.north-logan.ut.us

SEPTEMBER

AUGUST

Logan Film Festival loganfilmfest.com

Bear Lake Raspberry Days bearlake.org/events/raspberry-days Cache County Fair & Rodeo cachecounty.org/fair Utah Festival Opera utahfestival.org

Celebrate America Show celebrateamericashow.com

Wellsville Founder’s Day wellsvillecity.com

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THEY CALL IT

LOVE

Tara Bone, contributing writer

“Mom, the greatest dream of my life is to have a dog.” These words from my 6-year-old son changed our family’s life. How could I not grant his life wish? It was at the top of his Christmas wish list, and he even pretended to play with his dream dog.

As you can imagine, my doggie defenses melted.

On Christmas Eve 2015, there was his dream come true: Hunter, a Labradoodle puppy with a red bow and big puppy dog eyes. He even barked on cue when the boys met him under the Christmas tree. Perfection, until reality set in.

I thought I knew what we were in for, but nothing could prepare us for the

Things to consider when considering a dog: First, really evaluate your lifestyle. Does your family have time to walk a dog every day? How much time can you spend with a dog? Do you have a yard/fence? How much of a budget do you have for vet bills? If you leave town, will you have to find a boarder? Will the dog need to be groomed? Your answers will affect the size and breed of dog you choose.

Unless you’re already a dog expert, you’ll need help. The book 101 Dog Tricks by Kyra Sundance is fun and helpful, but our best find was right here in Cache Valley. Haley Jensen, owner and head trainer for Dog Pro Secrets (dogprosecrets. com), offers classes and in-house dog training. She saved our family’s sanity.

Haley’s “Top Dog Tips” 1. Give your dog or puppy limits. Don’t allow them free run of the house, furniture, people’s personal space or guests.

Decide as a family what those limits and boundaries are and stick to them.

2. Nothing in life is free. Teach basic commands such as come, sit and stay. Always require your dog to perform these tasks before getting anything he wants: food, play, petting, attention, treats and toys.

3. Never waste a leftover. Families with children have ample scraps, crusts and leftovers. Tear these yummy tidbits (especially meat and cheese) into tiny pieces, put into snack baggies and stash them around your house so you always have something handy to reinforce good behavior.

The more often you can reward throughout the day, the quicker your dog will learn.

coming adventures: chewed up shoes, holes in the kids’ clothes from “playful” biting, kennel potty breaks at all hours of the night and (gulp) chewing that involved a family heirloom.

The most recent adventure was a broken leg. While following neighborhood kids to the school bus, unbeknownst to us, Hunter

was hit. But all is well, and Hunter is still playful as ever.

I won’t sugar coat it, our family’s first (and potentially last) puppy experience has been hard, but Hunter’s part of the family. The boys are learning responsibility, and they love him and their adventures with him. So I’ll focus on that and remind myself that a 6-year-old’s dream came true.

Here for you through every stage of pregnancy

500 EAST 1400 NORTH, LOGAN, UTAH 84341 435.716.2880 Loganregional.org