Cache Valley Family Magazine Holiday 2022

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Sometimes in the fall it is hard for me to even fully commit to Halloween and other fall festivities because I am excitedly preparing for the Holiday issue of Cache Valley Family Magazine more than a full month before the merriment begins. It is fun to search out upcoming holiday events, tell the stories of people who are giving back, and learn about Cache Valley community and individual family traditions.

I am often asked what I enjoy most about my job. Without hesitation I say it is telling stories — stories of families, businesses, and individuals who are all playing a part in making our hometown a wonderful place to live. But, let me tell you a journalist’s secret: No matter how many details we pack into a story, there’s always more we could include. When I interview someone, I learn so much more than I could possibly share in words. I often end the conversation with overwhelming admiration for

the person I just spoke to. Photos and graphics add to the narrative, but even then, they’re only impressions that’ll provide you with insight about the experience, but not the experience itself.

So, if you want to truly experience a Cache Valley holiday season, you can’t just read about it, but rather, you’ll need to be a part of it. Our pages are filled with ideas to help you do just that. Attend the concerts! Visit Downtown! Make the cookies! Start a new family tradition! Shop in a family-owned business! Step up and Sub for Santa!

That’s the true magic of the season — experiencing the sights, sounds, smells, and feelings that make it special. I hope you’ll use this issue as a starting point to guide you through making the most of this holiday season.

Merry Christmas!

Publisher & Editor in Chief

EMILY BUCKLEY

Copy Editor

TARA BONE

Cover Photography

JOEL NAVA

Layout Design

THE UNBURDEN STUDIO Website Design KITE MEDIA

Contributing Writers

CLAIRE ANDERSON MARK ANDERSON K. BONE TARA BONE EMILY BUCKLEY

CACHE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT MELANIE CHRISTENSEN MICHAEL COLE, OD RACHEL COTTRELL

JENTRIE HALES KAELA HANKS JAKE MEASOM, MD KATE NEELEY LYDIA NEELEY

MEGAN OSTLER, MS, RDN SARAH ROMERO

FRANK SCHOFIELD

LETICIA SHIFFLET HAILEY WESTENSKOW

WIL WOOD

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 2022, 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.

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GOOD NEIGHBORS

The Good REALTORS® Do ... pg 8

SAFE FAMILIES

Winter Driving Tips for New and Experienced Drivers ... pg 13

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Sub for Santa: A Gift for Every Child ... pg 14

BEST IN CLASS YOUTH SPOTLIGHT

Lifelong Friends Share Iconic Ballet Role ... pg 17

FAMILY MATTERS

Christmas Music: A Timeless Tradition that Connects and Heals ... pg 20

HEALTHY FAMILIES

What is a Pain Doctor ... pg 25

COVER STORY

Cache Valley Civic Ballet Celebrates 40

Years of Nutcracker Magic pg 28

EDUCATION UPDATE

Cache County School District: Give the Perfect Gift: A Gifting Guide That Suits Every Child ... pg 32

Logan City School District: Help! My Child is Angry with Me! ... pg 33

FACT CHECK

Was Being a Parent Easier a Generation or Two Ago? ... pg 37

FAMILY FAITH Gospel Peace Church ... pg 40

FAMILY TRADITIONS

It's a Wonderful Life for the 47th Time ... pg 43

FAMILY TRAVEL

Entertain Kids on the Go with Podcasts and Audiobooks ... pg 51

Lee's Guide to a Stress-Free Holiday Dinner ... pg 6

A Sweet Tradition: Downtown Logan's Parade of Gingerbread Homes ... pg 10

Traumatic Brain Injury's Effect on Vision ... pg 26

A Step-by-Step Guide to Growing Microgreens Indoors ... pg 44

22 Things You May Not Know About the Most Used Apps in 2022 ... pg 46

Seven Tips for Decorating Cookies with Kids ... pg 48

Gingerbread Cookie Dough Bites ... pg 49

A Season for Togetherness: Family Traditions ... pg 54

Lee’s Guide to a Stress-Free Holiday Dinner

HAILEY WESTENSKOW contributing writer, Lee’s Marketplace

Each year things seem to grow bigger and better — including your family and circle of loved ones. As numbers grow and new faces join the mix, the holiday season is even more cheery … and a little more stressful. With more and more mouths to feed and presents to wrap, the focus of your holiday shifts away from spending time with loved ones and instead becomes the endless hours in the kitchen. You dedicate days to preparing the perfect tablescape, meal, and activities to ensure that your holiday is one to remember. However, what is really the most important thing at the dinner table every single year? The people that sit around it, of course.

Time is a tough commodity these days — we get it! We want to make sure your time is spent cultivating relationships rather than rising bread.

First, let’s talk food. Lee’s Marketplace’s decadent delicatessen is ready to take care of your holiday dinner and bring your favorite foods to you, so you don’t miss out on any of the fun. Lee’s holiday catering has the options of a traditional roasted turkey, ham, or prime rib dinner. With sides such as gravy, stuffing, cranberry sauce, harvest applesauce, butter flake rolls, Lee’s signature pie, and more, the options are plentiful to make sure you leave the dinner table feeling even more stuffed than the turkey itself.

We understand that this might be your “off year,” where only you, your spouse, and maybe a loved one or two are dining together. We’re happy to cater to every need and have options for individual dinners as well. Don’t worry, we make sure that this “individual portion” is still enough to enjoy those delicious leftovers.

Hosting is no joke, and here at Lee’s we love to go above and beyond just as much as you do. To ensure your day runs smoothly, we’ve compiled a list of five tips to make sure you’re the host with the most!

1. Prepare, prepare, prepare. Planning your meal ahead of time ensures you don’t forget any critical ingredients. One great way to do this is by first writing out the foods you’ll make, then creating an ingredient list for each of them. Cross off what you already have, and then circle what you need. Next, if there is anything you can make ahead of time, do it. Is there a pie you could bake and freeze a few days before?

2. Delegate! Are you having company bring side dishes or salads? Make sure to give them enough notice to get everything they’ll need

HolidayMeals

and follow up with them. Even younger kids and teenagers can help set the table, make place cards, or come up with games.

3. Utilize every option. If you have a pressure cooker, slow cooker, or air fryer see what can be made in each to avoid using the oven for everything. This guarantees that all the food will be warm when it’s time to eat, no cold gravy at this table.

4. Make it fun! There are endless ways to keep it beautifully traditional with elements of creativity. Create fun minuteto-win-it games for kids, or even have the kids’ tablecloth be made of butcher paper with crayons ready at the table. It’s cute, fun, and makes for an easy cleanup. Instead of writing guests’ names on place cards, print out your favorite photo of them to set at their seat. For the younger audiences, have a coloring page themed around the holiday.

5. Keep it simple. When it comes to setting your table, beautiful layouts can be created from what you already have at home. Old photos are great conversation starters and sparks of nostalgia to put on the table. Lee’s corner floral can make beautiful custom arrangements for your centerpieces.

Of course, here at Lee’s we are here to help in any and every way we can. Avoid the hustle of the store and shop online. Use promo code THANKS5 to receive 5% off your next online order when you spend $30+! *

*Expires December 31, 2022 | One-time use | promo code not valid on Instacart | leesmarketplace.com/online-shopping

CacheARTS Presents 22-23 National Touring Season

MANNHEIM STEAMROLLER CHRISTMAS by Chip Davis / Dec. 19 Repertory Dance Theatre / Jan. 20

Jazz at Lincoln Center Presents Songs We Love / Feb. 10 Comedy Night feat. Brandon Vestal and Frances Dilorinzo / Feb. 14

TAIKOPROJECT / March 13

Ellen Eccles Theatre 100th Anniversary Celebration / March 29 30 Marc Cohn & Shawn Colvin Together Onstage / March 31 Comedy Night feat. Don Friesen and B.T. / April 13

The Good REALTORS® Do

LETICIA SHIFFLET executive officer, Cache Valley Association of REALTORS®

While many COVID-19 restrictions around the world have been lifted, both local and national governments navigate special circumstances as they continue to deal with some of the pandemic’s fallout, and this constant state of change largely impacts those within the realm of real estate. Understanding the current market status and making accurate future-state predictions are overwhelming and almost impossible for the average homeowner or potential investor. These rapid changes within global markets have required REALTORS® to know more about both the markets and the people and communities they serve. Around the Valley, the nation, and the globe, REALTORS® are making efforts to help others navigate the twists and turns of volatile markets.

A REALTOR® has multiple priorities and financial responsibilities. First, they maintain an in-depth knowledge of current and emerging issues that will have a significant impact on

the market and how those changes affect their clients. These issues are often grouped into three general categories: Government & Regulatory, Change & Risk, and Economy & Markets. REALTORS® are constantly assessing topics within these categories, some of which include inflation, interest rates, hybrid work trends, disruptions to the supply chain, labor shortages, and geopolitical risks. With so many challenges having a direct impact on real estate, it’s crucial to make decisions based on research performed by seasoned professionals. Being a trusted source of knowledge allows REALTORS® to better serve those within their communities, which is another major priority.

Now more than ever, REALTORS® are devoting time and resources to support their neighbors. This support comes in the form of financial donations and community service that includes fundraisers, food collections and deliveries, and neighborhood cleanups — to name a few. A recent report shows that charitable giving

by REALTORS® associations has climbed an astounding 20% since 2020, as REALTORS® work to deepen connections and have a larger impact for good within the communities they serve.

Beginning in 2002, the National Association of REALTORS® started a campaign to recognize the good that REALTORS® contribute to the communities in which they live. This campaign awards recognition to REALTORS® who make an extraordinary impact on their community, or on the national or world stage, through volunteer work. It celebrates all acts of giving back to shine a spotlight on the impactful role REALTORS® play in communities.

Whether you’re looking for ways to become involved and serve within your community, or planning to buy or sell in an everevolving market, enlist the help of your local REALTORS® and rely on their knowledge and experience to make the most of your journey.

A SWEET TRADITION:

Downtown Logan’s Parade of Gingerbread Homes

KAELA HANKS contributing writer

Downtown Logan rings in the holiday season with a Christmas Parade the Saturday after Thanksgiving, where old and young alike are delighted by the arrival of Santa Claus and the unveiling of the candy windows at Bluebird Candy. The festivities draw thousands to Center Street that weekend. Another festive downtown tradition, one that lasts nearly the entire month of December, is the annual Parade of Gingerbread Homes.

From December 3 to December 31, citizens join in a friendly rivalry as they enter their magical creations into the competition that is judged by downtown visitors.

There are two general categories on display at

the Parade of Gingerbread Homes: Professional (pro bakers or previous winners) and Community (open to all who are up for the challenging, creative experience). The main requirement for all entries is that their creation must be 100% edible.

Going strong for 23 years, the event has grown into a much-loved tradition by not only the architects of these gingerbread creations, but also by everyone who participates. The community gets involved by voting on their favorite edible wonderland. Next to each entry, downtown visitors can find a ballot to cast their vote. The top six entries (three in the Community category and three in Professional category) are awarded $100. This event

encourages community members to explore Downtown Logan since entries are displayed at downtown businesses on, or near Main Street and Center Street.

A dedicated family who often participates in this heartwarming tradition is the Rusch family. Led by their mother, Robyn, she said they “work together with love and commitment” to enter a house into this event. In total, the Rusch family has entered seven gingerbread houses, starting in 2012. At that time, Robyn had two young boys. While looking for a creative outlet, she came upon an advertisement for a Parade of Gingerbread Houses. She immediately recruited her younger sister and began the project! They worked hard to create their Candyland-themed

photos courtesy of Robyn Rusch

project. Since then, the entire family, including Robyn’s husband and kids, have participated in this event. This has become a family tradition for them, where the whole family gets involved. They work together to come up with a theme and create their new ideas together.

Avid lovers of The Great British Baking Show, the Rusch family feels like this is their very own baking episode! Every year their kids would get involved in The Nutcracker, but in 2020 it wasn’t possible due to the pandemic. Instead, the family chose to mimic the play by creating a Nutcracker-themed house. Robyn said it was a “magical way to get through the pandemic and a way to highlight the magical production when they couldn’t have it live at the theater.”

Robyn recommends this event for all as it is a, “fun family event, something that all ages enjoy, from the tiny little ones to the grandparents, families, and even college students.” She even suggests it as a great date night activity.

“There is always something magical about being in Downtown Logan during the Christmas season,” Robyn said. The Rusches will again enter a house in the competition this December. After winning multiple awards in previous years in the Community division, they’ve been bumped up to Professional level for the first time this year.

Whether you decide to enter a home into the competition, or just want to visit Downtown Logan and vote on the sweet displays, this festive activity will once again bring families and the holiday season together. It’s a tradition you won’t want to miss.

Visit logandowntown.org/parade-of-gingerbread-homes for more information.

photo courtesy of Logan Downtown Visitors Bureau

Winter Driving Tips for New and Experienced Drivers

LYDIA NEELEY contributing writer

Living in Cache Valley Utah, we know snowstorms can be very unpredictable. Add to that, a teenage driver who has not driven in the snow yet, and things can get a little interesting.

Logan Brown and Darren Perkes, two driver’s education teachers at Green Canyon High School shared their tips for driving in the winter. However, most of their tips can be applied to those who have driven for many years in the snow as well.

The first thing both experts said was: “Drive Slow.” If your visibility is compromised, then it isn’t always smart to drive at the speed limit. In fact, the Utah State Speeding Law states, “A person may not operate a vehicle at a speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the existing conditions, giving regard to the actual and potential hazards then existing.” That means even if you are going below the speed limit, you can be pulled over and ticketed if the officer deems that you were going too fast for the existing winter conditions. If you can’t see in front of you,

going the speed limit and hoping that there isn’t a car in front of you isn’t the safest way to drive.

Darren also suggested keeping both hands on the steering wheel and being attentive to cars around you. Practicing safe driving habits by checking your blind spots can help you avoid a crash. You may pay attention to other cars and the existing weather conditions, but other drivers might not. Giving more space between you and other cars isn’t a bad idea either. When you are driving in the middle of a snowstorm, the conditions are not the same as it would be on a sunny day in the summer, and if the car in front of you has to stop unexpectedly, make sure there is adequate distance between the two cars so you can stop as well.

So, what do you do if your car hits black ice? Or starts spinning out of control? These experts recommend keeping both hands on the steering wheel, but not turning the wheel at all. Take your foot off the brake, and don’t hit the gas. Let the car slide on the ice to firm ground, and then you can take back control of your car.

Don’t let fear of the weather and driving stop you from running your errands and doing the things you need to. Being cautious and being paranoid are two completely different things, and if you are worried (or are worried about taking your teenage driver out to practice), try driving in a snowstorm or bad weather in areas with few cars. This will decrease the possibility of a crash but still allow you time to practice and increase your confidence in your driving.

If you are headed out of town, make sure you are prepared for the conditions. Make sure you have the right tires or chains for times when the roads get snowy. Carry a small emergency kit with you that has everything from a thick blanket, to non-perishable food, water, a first-aid kit, and a flashlight in your car. Also make sure you have an ice scraper handy to get all of the ice and snow off your car before you start driving.

Be prepared, drive slowly, and enjoy the holidays!

Top Four Winter Safe Driving Tips

1. Slow down!

2. Keep both hands on the wheel.

3. Leave adequate space between you and other vehicles.

4. Keep an emergency kit in your car.

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

SUB FOR SANTA:

A Gift for Every Child

CLAIRE ANDERSON contributing writer

If you were to walk around Cache Valley each holiday season interviewing individuals in our community, you would be hard-pressed to find someone who hasn’t heard of Sub for Santa.

When this nonprofit organization was started many decades ago, it was run by a small group of women with a desire to serve the community. It first operated at the Senior Center on 1st East in Logan. As it has grown and developed over the years, Sub for Santa has transitioned to many different locations, recently moving to the Bridgerland Applied Technical College West Campus Building.

Sub for Santa’s mission is to “provide temporary assistance during the Christmas season to individuals and families residing in Cache County who are in need.” According to the program directors, Emily Malik and Jennifer Bishop, Sub for Santa’s central goal is to “ensure that no child goes without a present at Christmas.” Those involved in this program dedicate many hours each holiday season to make this goal a reality by providing toys, clothing, and other gifts for children across Cache County.

“Because of our generous community, we have

been able to serve anywhere from 400 to 1200 kids each year,” Emily and Jennifer said.

There are many ways for community members to get involved in this cause. The KUTV Angel Tree program and other supporting businesses in Cache Valley work with Sub for Santa each year to put up several Angel Trees around town. These trees display tags that give community members the opportunity to sponsor a child, purchase gifts for kids in need, or purchase gift cards for teens in need. This year, Angel Trees can be visited at Smith’s Marketplace, Saddleback HarleyDavidson Shop, Lee’s Marketplace in Logan, Lee’s

Marketplace in Smithfield, or at the Cache Valley Mall starting on November 17. Sub for Santa encourages those who would like to sponsor children to reach out early, since the last day to participate is December 11.

“It's been really great to see our community get involved in this program,” Emily said. “I think my favorite moment last year was when a family came to the distribution center for a child they had sponsored. They saw all of the items in our distribution center and they made the connection of how many kids and families need assistance and that a lot of [that need] was [for] basic things like clothes, shoes, and coats. They were really emotional about making that connection. The next day, that family came back with more items to donate because they really just felt like they wanted to do as much as they

could for those who [could] use help. These were little kids! It was so inspiring. I think we all got teary.”

It’s undeniable that dedicating time to serve others, especially during the holiday season, can touch the hearts of all who have the opportunity to participate. “What keeps me going is hearing the stories of past recipients who were experiencing difficult times and are now in a good place to be able to sponsor a child, and it was their way of giving back,” Jennifer said.

Additional ways community members can help include making donations, participating in fundraising events, volunteering, or helping the program acquire their top 20 most needed items (see sidebar)

photos courtesy of Cache County Sub

Lifelong Friends Share Iconic Ballet Role

K. BONE contributing teen writer

This year, the Cache Valley Civic Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker features lifelong friends Laura Geertsen and Anne Summers who started in the production as Clowns almost 10 years ago, and this year were co-cast as the iconic Sugar Plum Fairy and Snow Queen.

Both 16 years old, they are two of the most accomplished ballet dancers in the area. They started dancing around age 2, and they haven't turned back since. Their hard work is illustrated through over a decade of classes, numerous ballet roles, multiple summer intensive trainings, and acceptance into Salt Lake City’s Ballet West Academy.

Ahead of roles like The Nutcracker's

Sugar Plum Fairy, Anne and Laura have worked for hundreds of hours. A typical week for them includes attending high school — Anne is a junior at Logan High School and Laura is a sophomore at Green Canyon High School — and spending 16 to 18 hours a week in ballet classes and rehearsals. These include two afternoons and evenings a week at Ballet West Academy.

Even their summers are a time for training. Anne spent last summer at the Pacific Northwest Summer Intensive and Laura at the Houston Ballet Summer Intensive. These are rigorous 5-week programs where six days out of the week they receive up to eight hours of training a day. For Laura and Anne, the reward makes all the hard work worth it. continued on next page …

An ongoing series of articles written by a local teen about other teens who are excelling in their unique areas of interest and talent.

Laura Geertsen and Anne Summers

… continued from previous page

“You put so much hard work into it and it's not something that happens naturally,” Laura said. “The hard work pays off so much and I love to see that and I feel it’s taught me a lot in my life and it’s so fun to perform. It’s fun to be someone else for a night!”

The audience, the lights, the sort of “magic” that comes with ballet is what motivates Laura and Anne. They both feel it’s surreal to perform as the Sugar Plum Fairy. This is Anne’s 12th year performing in The Nutcracker and says it takes the talents of many community members to produce the show.

“We love working together and enjoying the experiences of performing and being in the theatre,” Anne said. “I feel it’s a big part of the community, being in our beautiful theatre and having the orchestra. It’s so magical … that’s definitely the word!”

Anne recalls that an instructor at Ballet West says about dance, “There's nothing to prove, only to share.” She goes on say, “That’s one of my favorite things, it’s all about sharing your love for dance and the gifts you've been given

to dance. You can feel the audience; you’re connecting with them.”

With experiences come lessons, and ballet has taught the girls a variety of things. Both mention the importance of learning how to take care of their body with daily stretching and workout plans. Along with the physical things that come with dance, the mental skills gained are just as great.

Anne says, “You go to class and get corrections, you’re learning a growth mindset.”

Laura continues, “It’s definitely taught me how to accept criticism at school. Some people feel offended at teachers for criticism, but I love it!

I’ve learned to love the process.”

It's safe to say that through years of intense ballet/dance training and workouts, both girls have obtained a mentally tough mindset. Attitudes such as how to “trust the process” is a skill they’ll use for the rest of their lives.

For them dance is more than just a hobby, it's a lifestyle. The dance room and stage are an escape or break from their everyday life and they enjoy

being with fellow dancers who they call their “dance family.” As Laura puts it, it’s a way to “put the rest of the world away — the rest of life, and everything that's stressing you out.”

Though they spend a lot of time dancing, Laura and Anne try to balance their lives. They both love school and have been involved in student government and other activities during their time in high school. They are grateful for the excellent dance training they’ve received at Cache Valley Civic Ballet and all the opportunities they’ve had as part of Cache Valley’s Nutcracker tradition.

Their hard work can be seen live this year during Thanksgiving weekend at the Cache Valley Civic Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker at the Ellen Eccles Theatre.

Sandra Emile, the artistic director of the Cache Valley Civic Ballet sums up Laura and Anne by saying, “Both of these girls have worked very hard over many years to be in the roles they are dancing this year. Their dedication and focus is admirable and it has been a pleasure to see them develop as dancers and young women. I’m proud to have the opportunity to work with them.”

Top: Anne Summers and Laura Geertsen in their first Nutcracker role as clowns; Bottom: Laura Geertsen as a Party Girl and Anne Summers as Clara.

FAMILY

CHRISTMAS MUSIC:

A Timeless Tradition that Connects and Heals

TARA BONE contributing writer

When is your playlist beginning to sound a lot like Christmas? Is it November 1 or earlier (though you won’t admit it), or do you wait to settle in with all things Christmas later in December? Either way, it doesn’t feel like the Christmas season without Christmas music.

There’s no doubt Christmas music is beloved. There are literally millions of Christmas songs available on Spotify and other streaming services. The love for Christmas music began in 4th- century Rome with Latin-language hymns. In subsequent years, the development of popular Christmas songs snowballed throughout Europe

Family-Friendly Holiday Musical Events

The Nutcracker Friday, November 25 – Monday, November 28

Ellen Eccles Theatre

David Archuleta: The More the Merrier Christmas Tour November 30 7:30 p.m.

Logan High School

Wintersongs: USU Combined Choirs December 1 6 p.m. & 8 p.m.

St. Thomas Aquinas

Juanito’s Christmas Carol Pickleville on Tour December 2 – December 5

Ellen Eccles Theatre

Elf Four Seasons Theatre December 1 – December 10

Sky View High School

The Forgotten Carols: 2022 Tour December 3 7:30 p.m. Logan High School

American Festival Chorus and Orchestra: Christmas from the Daines Concert Hall with GENTRI December 8 – 10 Daines Concert Hall

Ryan Shupe and The Rubberband December 9 7:30 p.m.

Logan High School

An Evening with Nathan Pacheco December 10 7:30 p.m.

Ellen Eccles Theatre

Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol Lyric Rep and Utah State Theatre December 12 – December 16 7 p.m.

Ellen Eccles Theatre

Cache Children’s Choir December 12 7 p.m.

Russell/Wanlass Performance Hall

USU Youth Conservatory Christmas Recital December 15 6 p.m. Russell/Wanlass Performance Hall

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas December 19 5 & 8 p.m.

Ellen Eccles Theatre

Mark Mackay Christmas Concert Tour December 21 7 p.m.

Ellen Eccles Theatre

in each country’s native language. As immigrants came to America in the mid to late 1700s, songs like Silent Night were translated into English. The Great Depression Era of the 1930s marked a Golden Age of holiday songs thanks to radio technology. During World War II, songs like I’ll Be Home for Christmas captured the hearts of people who hoped for better times and happy homecomings. Today musicians in many genres offer endless Christmas music choices.

So, what is it about Christmas music that holds a special place in hearts year after year? Bre Phelps of Wellsville is a singer and mother of four who is passionate about the power of music, specifically Christmas music to heal and unite. From a young age, music was a lifeline of love and light as she faced challenges.

For her, Christmas music carries a special message for all generations. She believes listening to messages of “good tidings” and “great joy” naturally affects behavior.

“I think Christmas music is the reason everybody becomes better around Christmas,” Bre said.

“Why is Christmas music different? We have a common goal, we all know the songs — all ages — and music transcends everything; it fills all the gaps. When we don’t know what to say it connects.”

During the holiday season Bre sings throughout Cache Valley for church, school, and business events. In 2018, she put together the Christmas album Holy Night. She says the experience was a mommy dream for her continued on next page …

… continued from previous page because for years she had set it aside until the right time. “I was so thankful to be able to get creative and do something for me and God,” she said.

Bre has seen Christmas music’s power to soften and heal. Years ago, she felt her family and local community were missing out on the power of Christmas music. She set out to change that. Every year, except the COVID years, she hosts a caroling party for family, friends, and neighbors to come together to sing and perform Christmas songs around the piano, guitar, or whatever other instrument.

“It feels awkward to us to sit around and share tender feelings. We’ve lost that in our community — we’re all so busy and check-listy,” Bre said. But at the Caroling parties she says it doesn’t take long for the music to “bring the feelings.”

“Music breaks down barriers and makes it easier for people to feel,” she adds.

This holiday season slow down and connect with the people you love through the music of the season. Whether that looks like attending one of the many holiday performances in Cache Valley or inviting friends and neighbors to gather and sing at home! Let the songs of Christmas make your season bright. Local singer Bre Phelps’ album “Holy Night” is available on all major streaming platforms.

Are you suffering from pain in your BACK NECK

HIP FEET HANDS

We can treat that. ?

We also treat pain from headaches, SI Joint, shingles, sciatica, arthritis, cancer, pelvic, pain after back surgery, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, CRPS, neuropathy, chronic post-surgical pain, sports injuries, phantom limb pain/amputation pain, and painful diabetic neuropathy, and more.

At Interventional Spine and Pain Management our goal is to get you back to living.

We offer individualized and comprehensive treatment plans utilizing the most up-to-date technology and minimally invasive techniques to treat pain.

Dr. Measom is an MD, fellowship trained pain specialist and Cache Valley native. He and his staff are excited to work with you. We accept all major insurance providers.

N

UT

What is a Pain Doctor?

JAKE MEASOM, MD Interventional Spine and Pain Management

When meeting new people, I am frequently asked, “What kind of doctor are you?” When I tell them I practice interventional pain management, the next question is invariably “What does that mean?”

Interventional pain management is the discipline of medicine devoted to the diagnosis and treatment of pain-related conditions to improve function and restore quality of life. In short, if it hurts, we can treat it and get you back to doing what you love. Generally, when people think of pain doctors, they think of two things, “cortisone shots and pain pills.” For a long time, they were right, going to a pain doctor meant steroid injections of some kind and a combination of medications, often including opioids and nerve medications like gabapentin. When injections

work, they often need to be repeated every few months and can result in injection fatigue and even lose efficacy over time leaving patients with continued pain and fewer options besides increased doses of medication.

We still utilize steroid injections but gone are the days of treating just back pain and having therapies limited to “cortisone shots and pain pills.” Even in the past five years the number of painful conditions we can treat and the number of therapies we have available to treat those conditions has expanded exponentially. Of course, the most common things we treat are still back and neck pain. In addition to backs and necks we regularly treat pain involving the knees, shoulders, hands, feet, neuropathy, headaches, compression fractures, post-surgical pain, nerve pain, and the list goes on. Advances in the field have provided new, drug-free techniques to treat these conditions. Let me highlight some examples.

Do you get pain in your back and legs when you walk even short distances? You may have a condition called spinal stenosis, where narrowing of the spinal canal can compress nerves inside. Previously the only treatments were epidural injections and eventually surgery. Recent advances have provided new minimally invasive techniques to relieve spinal stenosis long-term without injections.

Does your low back hurt from riding in the car or bending to pick something up? You may have a condition called vertebrogenic low back pain, or back pain generated from inflammation of the nerves within the vertebral body. This is different than the back pain usually treated with traditional injections. MRI and physical exam can show if you’re a candidate for a procedure called basivertebral nerve ablation where we can deaden the nerve inside the vertebral body itself to treat pain.

Do you continue to have shoulder pain even after having shoulder surgery? It can be common that even after a perfect mechanical correction by your orthopedic surgeon you can still have significant pain generated from the nerves that supply sensation to the shoulder. In the past the only options were steroid injections and additional surgeries. Today we have the ability to place implantable microstimulators (both temporary and permanent) directly onto these nerves to treat pain.

So, if you have pain — anywhere — that’s keeping you from living life and doing what you love, call an interventional spine and pain specialist for an evaluation. Whether you’ve been to pain doctors before or your pain just started, there are new treatments available to get you back to living.

Traumatic Brain Injury’s Effect on Vision

MICHAEL COLE, OD Child and Family Eye Care Center

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can have a profound effect on those unfortunate enough to experience it. Many systems in the body are thrown into disarray and often it becomes a long road to recovery before one starts to feel comfortable again. In our clinic, we have treated vision concerns for a wide variety of injuries ranging from concussions in sports, car accidents, strokes, military service, gunshot wounds, and even a lightning bolt to the head! There unfortunately seems to be a neverending list of possibilities for a brain injury, and thankfully we have been able to aid in recovery for these patients.

In all, close to 70% of post-TBI patients have vision diagnoses. This does not, however, mean that these patients see an increase in blurry vision or need a new glasses prescription. Rather, these patients struggle with other aspects of vision that may go untreated if they are not evaluated properly. Routine eye examinations that evaluate eye health and visual acuity alone will not be adequate to identify these problems when they exist.

The most common visual complaints are accommodative disorders. Accommodation refers to the ability of our eyes to change focal distances. Much like a camera lens, our eyes can change focus to view objects at different distances. Post-TBI patients often find themselves unable to read or otherwise see clearly up close like they were able to prior to sustaining the injury. This ability can be restored with time and training, and sometimes requires the use of additional corrective lenses to aid in the short term before recovery can commence.

Around half of patients experience convergence insufficiency, or the inability to adequately aim both eyes at a near target. Without a strong convergence system, it is difficult to perform near tasks without double vision.

Often patients will complain of tired, achy eyes and frequent headaches. Many are unable to continue hobbies such as reading or sewing due to the excessive strain and poor vision. It is our pleasure to aid in the return to such activities and a normal life for these individuals.

Sometimes eye movements are affected after brain injuries. Depending on the area of the brain that is hurt, different types of eye movements can be impaired. Some patients have damage to the saccadic control areas which plan high-speed positional changes of the eyes to new locations. This is the type of motor movement used when reading or changing gaze to look at a new target of interest. Different areas of the frontal lobe plan smooth movements, called pursuits that allow us to follow a moving object without losing our aim. It can be very frustrating for patients unable to initiate or accurately carry out these basic

functions of vision. Fortunately, this too can be improved with rehabilitation.

In cases of severe injury to specific areas of brain tissues, sometimes different areas of our visual field are lost. For example, an injury to the occipital lobe can cause a complete loss of vision on one side of our vision. This would mean that one could see clearly straight ahead and to one side of peripheral vision. The other side of the periphery, however, could be completely lost. Patients such as these often need vision aids and training to help them navigate the world due to the now unseen portions of their vision.

Unfortunately, all too often these patients struggle with these vision concerns without treatment. If you or a loved one is in need of help in this area, please schedule a consult with our clinic.

Cache Valley Civic Ballet Celebrates 40 Years of Nutcracker Magic

EMILY BUCKLEY editor in chief

When Sandra Emile, founder and artistic director of the Cache Valley Civic Ballet, arrived in Cache Valley in 1981 for her husband’s employment at Utah State University, she never dreamed this is where she’d stay and build a career, but she had an instinct to bloom where she was planted and decided, when given the opportunity to take on a small, grant-funded ballet chorography project, to put her American Ballet Theatre training to work. In exchange for directing Peter and the Wolf, she would be given the opportunity to take up space rent-free in the historic Whittier Community Center for a couple of months to see if she could attract ballet students.

After that first successful production of Peter and the Wolf on the small Whittier Community Center stage, Sandy committed herself to producing The Nutcracker, and so began the Cache Valley Civic Ballet.

Now, 40 years later, the Cache Valley Civic Ballet is preparing to put on their 40thanniversary production of The Nutcracker

with a cast of more than 75 and the live accompaniment of the 43-piece Northern Utah Symphony Orchestra. “I never thought I would see this organization grow to the size it is or touch as many lives as it has,” Sandy said. “It has really been a privilege. I look back at what we have done and what our dancers have accomplished with pride and satisfaction, and then turn and look forward with anticipation for what we can achieve in the future.”

Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky's ballet The Nutcracker has become the most frequently performed of all ballets in the world, according to National Public Radio (NPR). It has served as an introduction to classical music for many young people and is a ballet that even non-ballet goers make a holiday tradition, beloved by children and adults alike.

It is a magical tale of the little girl, Clara, who is given a nutcracker as a Christmas gift and then dreams that it comes to life and goes into battle with toy soldiers and mice. Her Nutcracker Prince then escorts her to the Land

of the Sweets, where they meet the Sugar Plum Fairy who calls on her court to entertain the pair with a dazzling, colorful display of dances, culminating in a beautiful performance by the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Prince.

The Nutcracker was first performed in Russia in 1892, and was not terribly successful at the time. The first complete performance outside of Russia was not until 1934 in London.

Brigham City native and dance pioneer Willam Christensen brought The Nutcracker to the United States. He was a Vaudeville star before establishing the San Francisco Ballet in 1941. ‘Mr. C.’, as he came to be known, staged America’s first full-length production of the now-beloved ballet on Christmas Eve 1944 in San Francisco. This historical production

Sandra Emile founded the Cache Valley Civic Ballet in 1982. She has performed, taught, and directed fulllength ballets for the 40 years since.

Ellen Eccles Theatre, Cache Valley Civic Ballet’s production home.

Ellen Eccles Theatre to Mark 100th Anniversary

Courtesy of Cache Valley Center for the Arts

In 1912, when the Thatcher Opera House was destroyed by fire, George and Brigham Thatcher envisioned an ornate, first-class theatre to replace it. This vision became reality when the new Capitol Theatre opened on March 29, 1923. At the hefty price of $250,000, the beautiful new theatre boasted a fly system, excellent acoustics, and an opulent interior. Named for its rival in Salt Lake City, the Capitol Theatre contributed to the image of Logan as “the Athens of Utah” and for the next few decades it was at the heart of cultural activities in Cache Valley.

The beautiful structure was grand enough to attract the great entertainers like Abbot and Costello, John Philip Sousa, the Marx Brothers, George Burns, and Gracie Allen. Live performances shared the stage with films, dominant through the 1930s. As television emerged in the 1950s the crowds waned and films shared the space with community productions.

By the 1980s, the Capitol Theatre had suffered from years of neglect. The ornate plasterwork had been painted industrial green, burlap sacks covered the stunning murals portraying the mythical phoenix bird, and a massive plywood wall blocked the stage. Some spoke of demolishing the building to provide additional parking. A few visionary citizens led by Michael Ballam, seeing a greater potential, united the community in an ambitious $6.5 million project to restore the theatre and create the adjacent Bullen Center. As a result of this grassroots effort, the building was transferred to the City of Logan, becoming a community theatre in the very best sense. Thousands of volunteer hours were contributed to the effort, and on January 8,1993, the Capitol Theatre was reopened and renamed Ellen Eccles Theatre in honor of early Logan resident and philanthropist Ellen Stoddard Eccles.

Like the mythological phoenix, which perishes in the fire and is reborn in the ashes, the Ellen Eccles Theatre is more vibrant than ever. This “crown jewel” is once again at the heart of the arts in Cache Valley.

SINCE OPENING IN JANUARY 1923

Eccles Theatre

AT THE

ECCLES THEATRE

sparked a long-lasting cultural phenomenon that continues on stages around world today. Mr. C. eventually returned to Utah and founded the ballet department at the University of Utah in 1951 and Ballet West in 1963.

According to Willam Christensen’s obituary in 2001, someone once asked him how long he thought The Nutcracker would continue. He said, "I suppose it will go as long as there are children being born and as long as there's a Santa Claus."

The Nutcracker tradition is one that is full of magic, and that is also why Sandy believes audiences return year after year, and why she has enjoyed directing the production for four decades straight.

“I don’t think we ever outgrow the desire for Christmas magic, and wishing for a place to have all your dreams come true,” she said. “Creating that as a dancer or as a director, and being part of telling that story for others to enjoy, even if only for a little while, well, that’s magic and who wouldn’t want to be part of that? It’s like putting up the Christmas tree, every year, it’s the best tree ever, even when we know we said the same thing last year and the year before that.”

Asking Sandy Emile what her favorite

SERVICE EACH

part of The Nutcracker is, is like asking a mother who her favorite child is, only she has an answer: “I love it all, but the best part is the start of snow, at the end of the first act,” she said. “I set the dancing to be part of the music, which mimics the way a gentle winter snowfall starts. Quietly, a few flakes at a time until the music grows, and the stage is full of flakes dancing through the air. I have always loved a good snowfall.”

For those who have never been to the ballet, Sandy says they shouldn’t overthink it. “It’s just the telling a story or sharing an emotion with the audience without using any words. Relax and enjoy it.”

Sandy is honored to have such a beautiful venue for her dancers to perform in. “We are lucky,” she said. “There are few communities of our size in our type of location that have such a lovely ‘jewel box’ to perform in. I truly appreciate the community support of this lovely theater and the incredible staff that operates the facility.”

The Cache Valley Civic Ballet performance of The Nutcracker will be performed at the Ellen Eccles Theatre Thanksgiving weekend. Tickets are available at cvcballet.org.

Capitol Theatre in 1935, courtesy of Cache Valley Center for the Arts.

EDUCATION UPDATE

Help! My Child is Angry with Me!

FRANK SCHOFIELD superintendent, Logan City School District

The winter months bring unique opportunities for families to spend time together. The cold weather often keeps us indoors more, and many holidays can bring extended family members into our homes. These increased interactions are hopefully positive, but increased time together can also lead to frayed nerves and increased opportunities for conflict (maybe you’re thinking about the one time you tried to play Monopoly as a family), and that conflict can lead to children being frustrated, or even angry, with their parents.

As most adults know, a child being angry with their parent is nothing new, nor is it limited to the winter months. But it can be difficult as a parent to manage a child’s anger in ways that model how people manage their emotions in healthy relationships. So, what can you do as a parent when your child is angry with you?

Dr. Chinwé Williams, a licensed professional counselor (LPC), offers the following five

suggestions a parent can use when working with a child who is angry.

TAKE A PAUSE BREAK.

It’s difficult to remain calm when your kid is exploding with anger. That’s because anger has the effect of pushing another person away. Additionally, tantrums trigger our body’s stress response system: fight, freeze, or flight. When being disrespected, it’s natural to want to fight back, but it doesn’t help. Author L.R. Knost suggested, “When little people are overwhelmed by big emotions, it’s our job to share our calm, not join their chaos.”

While challenging, it’s important to demonstrate kindness even through disagreements and frustrations. To do so, we must calm our emotional brain by engaging our logical brain. If necessary, step away for a few minutes (or hours) to decompress.

Allow yourself time to move past your initial reaction so that you can move toward a more

thoughtful response. Managing your own upset is one of the best ways of teaching our kids to manage theirs.

HELP THEM TO EXPLORE WHAT IS UNDERNEATH THE SURFACE.

Anger is a natural response to pain and often covers up really big hurts. Anger can be an immediate response to something that feels threatening in the moment, or it can build up over time. For example, angry kids and teens often report feeling ignored, unimportant, or devalued.

Teaching children to manage powerful emotions is a valuable life skill. Anger can stem from a very deep place that is seeking acknowledgment — and expression. Respond by acknowledging their emotion while holding a boundary: “It’s OK to feel angry, but it’s not OK to be disrespectful, slam doors, or pull your sister’s hair.” Or, “I understand that you are upset with me because you want to sleep over at Lisa’s house. My answer is firm, but when you’re feeling calmer, we can discuss the reasons for my decision.”

COMPROMISE WHERE YOU CAN.

I once heard a parenting expert advise against compromising with upset kids because, “We don’t negotiate with terrorists.” While I understand the general sentiment (sort of), I think it’s more helpful to connect wherever you can. When your kid or teen takes the time to explain their point of view in a thoughtful and respectful manner, welcome it! And thank them afterwards. While you undoubtedly have many valid points, under pressure, your child is likely to reject new (and helpful) information instead of wrestling with it.

When your child is calm, consider leading with, “Before anything else, I want you to know that I love you.” The goal here is not to compromise

… continued from previous page your views or beliefs, but to model for your kids the willingness to engage in tough conversations. After all, iron sharpens iron.

ENCOURAGE HEALTHY EXPRESSION.

When kids believe they have been treated unfairly, they have a hard time controlling their hostility. School-aged kids are better able to demonstrate higher levels of selfcontrol compared to toddlers or preschoolers. However, self-management skills are beneficial at any age. In fact, research suggests that a child’s ability to regulate his or her emotions is a more valid measure than IQ in predicting academic success.

Younger kids utilize make-believe play to help them to self-regulate. Through play, children “rehearse problems” with peers, thereby developing and enhancing their social, emotional, and conflict resolution skills.

If you are the parent of an angry teen, you know the struggle of communicating through contempt. Encourage them to self-regulate but, tempting as it is, avoid screaming, “Go to your room and take a few breaths!” The point here

is to help your teen to express their aggravation productively. Adults can coach teenagers to be self-disciplined by calmly asking for what they need. Helpful phrases include, “Mom, can we change the subject? I’m getting upset.” Or “Dad, I need to leave the room and process my feelings.”

RELEASE CONTROL AND STAY CONNECTED.

During times of conflict, parenting can feel like an endless game of setting and enforcing limits—which isn’t fun for anyone. It’s tempting to squash our kids’ resistance by exerting control or dominance. Attempting to control our kid’s behavior might feel good in the moment, but often increases tensions. Instead, focus on relationship building. According to communications expert Melodie Stanford Martin, two primary goals in any conflict are: 1. Protect the relationship, and 2. increase the probability for understanding on both sides. Statements such as, “You’re making a good point,” and, “I never thought of it in that way,” are powerful ways of joining with your child and boosting connection.

Every family faces the challenge of managing anger and frustration, while hopefully still

finding ways to communicate effectively. When we focus on connecting with the other person, instead of controlling their response to us, we will have a better chance of managing the negative emotions of the situation while ensuring the relationship remains safe and intact.

Was Being a Parent Easier a Generation or Two Ago?

KATE NEELEY contributing writer

Connie Paskett, 76, of Smithfield, a loving mother and grandmother, raised her children in a different time than her daughter Natalie Straatman, 51, of Young Ward, or her granddaughter Alisha Wilkins, 28, of Nibley. Think for a moment what life will be like for Alisha’s 3-month-old daughter Addy when she gets old enough to be a mother.

Some might say things about the past like, “In simpler times it was …” But were they really simpler? Maybe. Easier? Perhaps in some ways. And yet harder in others.

These women answered questions such as:

• “What do you think sets each generation apart?”

• “What can you learn from different

generations that might influence you as a parent?”

• “If you have children, what was it like when your first child was born?”

• “If you’re a mother, what was your birth experience? Was it in a hospital, a home, somewhere else?”

Read on for a glimpse into three women’s experiences over three generations.

For Connie, more than 50 years ago, her first pregnancy was going well up until closer to the delivery when she developed high blood pressure and preeclampsia.

When the doctor took a look at her, she recalls, “We didn’t have insurance, so a hospital stay

would be expensive. The doctor told me, ‘if you are good and stay in bed, then you can stay home.’ I stayed in bed, so I got to stay home.”

Not long after that, she had a show of blood and ended up delivering a stillborn baby boy they named Chad. As her daughter Natalie relates, “They didn’t let her see or hold the baby.” Her husband drove the tiny baby’s body straight to the cemetery to be interred. She didn’t have a chance to see or hold the child she carried full term.

In contrast to her story, Connie’s granddaughter Alisha similarly developed high blood pressure earlier this year and preeclampsia later in the term of her first pregnancy, but with the technology offered to her, her experience was continued on next page …

LEARN FROM THREE GENERATIONS OF CACHE VALLEY MOTHERS ABOUT HOW THINGS HAVE CHANGED — AND STAYED THE SAME

… continued from previous page different. When she went in for a routine checkup before she was full term, she was told that they needed to deliver the baby that day.

She was taken in for an emergency c-section and then her brand-new daughter was taken to the NICU for one month for needed care until she was ready to go home. Now Addy is home with her mom and dad, growing and developing like any other baby.

When Alisha’s mother Natalie delivered her 28 years ago, she was very fortunate to have a smooth pregnancy and delivery for the most part. Alisha’s dad wore scrubs in the hospital room, she pushed for three hours, and although Alisha arrived two weeks past her due date, she was a healthy, beautiful baby girl.

Alisha is the eldest of five girls in her family, and Natalie has fond memories of raising her children in the time she did. Her day-to-day experiences included things like feeding her babies out of baby food jars, going to the park and store, and spending time with other mothers like her, who spent the majority of their time caring for children at home.

Alisha anticipates that it is likely her daughter will grow up differently than she did, seeing more families with both parents working for income because current lifestyle and cost of living make that more of a necessity.

Natalie raised her family on a farm. As little girls, they cared for gardens and raised animals. Natalie feels satisfied that it gave her children opportunities to learn how to work and exposed them to natural patterns in the world around them.

She believes that connection to nature is a healthy thing and that perhaps the generations today are missing out in some ways because they’re so connected to electronics. However, Natalie can also see the benefits of being able to stay in contact with each other in different ways like social media.

Alisha can see that for baby Addy. She’s glad to know that Addy is born into a time when people are more accepting of others who are different and there is more information available about many things, including mental health. Still, she is leery of exposure to vast amounts of unconfirmed information.

Connie’s generation raised children in a world where she felt that most everyone knew and accepted right and wrong. She feels that people today are more conflicted and confused about what’s right and wrong.

There are certainly different and widely accepted ways of living in different generations. However, Connie, Natalie, and Alisha all can see that there are things that remain in every generation.

As a great grandmother, Connie says, “Parents are parents, and kids are kids.” According to Alisha, there will always be some conflict with the previous generation, “But that’s how we learn, change, and grow over time.” Kids and parents will always learn together about respect, kindness, communication, forgiveness, and other values, according to Natalie.

There’s bound to be change in the world for baby Addy as she grows, but perhaps what really matters for every generation will stay the same when she has the opportunity to become a mother, and that is motherly love and concern.

Three generations of mothers: Natalie Straatman, Alisha Wilkins, and Connie Paskett share their thoughts on motherhood.

FAMILY FAITH

Gospel Peace Church

TARA BONE contributing writer

Last year on Sunday, September 19, Pastors Paul Campbell, John Moon, and Jonathan Jarrett launched Gospel Peace Church with their very first worship service in Cache Valley.

Gospel Peace Church meets each Sunday at The Whittier Center from 10:30 a.m. to noon and its teachings focus on the Bible and encourage a life-long process of becoming like Jesus Christ. Though the church is new, church leaders and its approximately 150 members are focusing on ways to serve.

“We feel very new here, so we’re trying to figure out how we can best serve the community,”

Pastor Paul said. “There are a number of churches in our Valley who do a great job of serving. We’re trying to get to know our neighbors. That’s what we want to emphasize, start right next door — serve your neighbors.”

Paul adds that their neighbors have been kind and they love being in Cache Valley. They’re hoping to implement yearly traditions that will give back to the community. The church is sponsoring a fundraiser Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving Day at 7 a.m. Details for that event are on the church’s website at gospelpeace.com

The church has also partnered with The Center for Pregnancy Choices, a local organization

This is the sixth and final article in a series featuring different faith communities in Cache Valley. The role of faith in the early settler’s day-today life was central. For many who call Cache Valley home today, faith continues to play a pivotal role in Valley communities and individual lives.

that helps expectant parents understand what their choices are during an unexpected pregnancy. Efforts included participating in the organization’s Walk for Life fundraiser and a “baby bottle” fundraiser in which donors filled baby bottles with donations. Earlier this year the church organized a remodel of the Whittier Center’s bathrooms.

As the Christmas season approaches, special services are planned. A Christmas Eve worship service will be held, and prior to that the church will host a Christmas sing-along on Saturday, December 10. Congregational singing is a special part of the church’s worship service, according to Pastor John.

“Every year we’d like to do a Christmas sing-along,” said John. “The reason we do that is a kindness for the Valley, it’s a lot of fun. We have an inordinate number of musicians at our church. We do a lot of fun, traditional music and Christian-directed Christmas singing and someone will share the story of Christmas. We intersperse that with some trivia games — it will be a fun night.”

Gospel Peace Church is affiliated with Gospel Grace Church from Salt Lake City. Gospel Grace Church just celebrated their 10-year anniversary. During that time, they revitalized a struggling church in Riverton, Utah called Gospel Hope Church before branching out to Cache Valley.

“We’re the third church in this tiny family of churches that unify and connect together,” Paul said.

Paul oversees most of the preaching and teaching at the church. He and his wife Abbey and their four children moved to Cache Valley about a year and a half ago. He graduated from Liberty University in 2006 with a degree in Religion with a Youth Ministry emphasis. He also completed a Master of Biblical Studies in 2010 and a Master of Divinity in 2012, both from Virginia Beach Theological Seminary.

“We love it here; it’s been amazing,” Paul said. “The Lord has answered our prayers above and beyond what we were expecting.

It’s a Wonderful Life the 47th Time

WIL WOOD contributing writer

I’m watching It’s a Wonderful Life for the 47th time this year. Convince me not to. It’s tradition, and it’s one I never plan to change. Some of our traditions revolve around a cookie that isn’t that delicious or an event that we would never volunteer to do. It’s not that we enjoy bland cookies or events that aren’t exactly up our alley in and of themselves. The combination of a time of the year, the smell of ingredients, or a certain group of people can stir up memories and create a bookmark in our subconscious. Continuing to participate in traditions helps

us hold on to these emotional reference points and makes our culture and individual lives all the richer.

That’s why Thanksgiving is now my favorite holiday. How could all of my people and lots of good food in the same place not be my favorite thing?!

Traditions can bring back good memories of parents that are gone and stories of grandparents that raised them. They can remind a family of who they are and what they

stand for. “We are the so and so’s, and we make tamales during the holidays!”

Just as traditions can stir up memories of things you don’t want to forget, they can do the same for things you don’t want to remember. Maybe a loved one who is gone, or the divorce that still stings, or any number of bad memories we try to keep locked up, so we don’t have to feel our way through them.

For me, this last year has been a year of firsts. My mom died in February so a part of my soul feels untethered more than ever because I can’t share my children’s firsts with her anymore.

What I’ve learned is that I have to figure out a different way to celebrate those firsts. I’ve also realized how important it is to remember and honor the good in our past.

So, whether it hurts or exhilarates to smell the wassail or hear George Bailey talk about Zuzu’s petals, I say eat the cookie, go to the ugly sweater party, tell the stories, and make the tamales.

There is a comfort and a beauty in loving something that has been loved before, in kneading the dough, singing the songs, or hanging the decorations; performing the familiar rituals of those we love and have loved. Our songs echo their voices and our actions echo their efforts, and as we add our own flair, we emulate and interpret these traditions.

As Clarence points out to George, “Each man's life touches so many other lives. And when he isn't around, he leaves an awful hole, doesn't he?"

This year, there is an awful hole in my life that gets just a little smaller as I make the foods, watch the movies, play the games, and gather with the ones that love her too. Traditions show us what to do when we aren’t sure what to do. They remind us who we are when we could otherwise forget.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Growing Microgreens Indoors

MARK ANDERSON owner, Anderson’s Seed and Garden

Last week we harvested our first microgreens of the fall season: peppergrass, arugula, turnips, purple kohlrabi, spinach, and our five-way lettuce mix. I think the peppergrass, arugula, and kohlrabi are my favorites. What are microgreens you ask? They are more than sprouts, but greens that are allowed to mature only to the first true leaf stage before harvesting and eating them. All I can say is, wow! They pack a punch of fresh flavor and are some of the most delicious and nutritious plants that you can consume. They are super easy to grow indoors and can provide you and your family a fun wintertime growing activity that yields amazing greens to consume through the long, cold, winter months. I can hardly wait for the basil, oregano, thyme, and amaranth that will be ready next week!

All you need to start microgreens yourself is

your preferred seed, three half-height seed starting trays (one with holes), some seed starting soil (or coco coir), full spectrum lighting, water, and a little nutrient. For our growing location, we have a couple shelves in the warehouse that were just perfectly spaced for plants and lighting — the sun never reaches the plants at all. Its climate controlled at about 68 degrees Fahrenheit, and we have fans running all the time to keep the air circulating to prevent diseases.

For our first experiment, we started with arugula seed. It germinates fast, has few problems with disease, and is usually ready to harvest in about 14 days. We filled our 10x20 inch tray with hydrated coco coir, sprinkled about 1/2 ounce of seed on top, and moistened them with a fine mist of water. Most of the seeds germinate better with a little pressure

on them, so we took the seed-filled tray, placed it inside another tray with no holes in it, and put the third tray on top with about a 10-pound weight on top of that and placed it on one of the shelves. Within 24 hours we had seeds germinating. By slightly misting the seeds every 24 hours, in roughly three days, they had all germinated and were ready to start stretching.

On day four we took the weight off and inverted the tray so there was a gap between the seedlings and the upside-down tray. Roots had grown through coco coir and out the holes of the tray. The microgreens need a few days without light to make them grow extra tall and aid in harvesting the leaves when they are mature. At this point we started misting tops and roots once a day. In about three days the seedlings had grown tall enough to push the

inverted tray away from the bottom and start to allow light into the plants.

At this stage of growth (about one week into the process) the tall, light-deprived plants get moved to the artificial lights (full spectrum LEDs). We began watering daily from the bottom tray, and our seedlings colored up very nicely and started to grow more. When they started to show their

first true leaf — it was almost exactly 13 days into the growing process —- we knew it was time to harvest. A few quick snips, and we had amazing, delicious microgreens to add to a salad, use on a sandwich, or to garnish other foods. Believe me, the flavor is potent and unbelievable. When harvested at this stage of growth, microgreens have four to five times the nutritional value of the fully mature version of the plant.

If you have a little extra space in the pantry or a spare room, you can keep your garden growing all through the winter months indoors. It is fun, rewarding, and easy to grow your own crop of delicious microgreens. There are literally dozens of options to try and sample — I think our next experiment will be with sunflower, kale, and purple mustard. I can hardly wait to try them!

22 Things You May Not Know About the Most Used Apps in 2022

JENTRIE HALES community advocate, @techhealthyfamily

Recently while in my phone’s app store, I noticed a headline in the store that was titled “Our Favorite iPhone Essentials.” This title was followed by a list of apps that were considered “absolutely necessary” for all iPhone users. This simple interaction got me thinking about the apps that are essential to us. The ones that we use every day. The ones that our kids tell us they cannot live without. The ones that make life so much more convenient and also sometimes complicated.

So in honor of wrapping up the 2022 year, I made a list of 22 unsavory things that you may not know about our “essential” and most-used apps of this year.

FACEBOOK

1. Frances Haugen, a Facebook whistleblower reported that Facebook’s algorithm intentionally shows users things to make them angry.

2. Also in her report: “Facebook has realized that if they change the algorithm to be safer, people will spend less time on the site, they’ll click on less ads, [Facebook will] make less money.”

ROBLOX

3. Roblox is an app where 67% of the users are 16 and under.

4. The app is also a known place where users can enter adult-like scenarios such as virtual strip clubs.

INSTAGRAM

5. Although Instagram claims to have a strict “no nudity” rule, accessing pornography is as simple as searching the right hashtag.

6. Instagram is the social media site used most by predators.

7. Studies have linked heavy Instagram use to poor mental health and increased anxiety.

FACEBOOK MESSENGER

8. Vanish mode is a newish feature to Facebook Messenger that allows

messages to disappear once they have been read.

9. It was reported in July 2022 that over 8.5 million people had been victim of scams that occured over this app.

TIKTOK

10. When a user spends more than 90 minutes a day on the app, TikTok’s format of short videos has been linked to decreased attention span.

11. 91 minutes is the average time a teen or child spends on the app daily.

12. The “Duet” feature is a way for predators to exploit young users.

AMAZON

13. Amazon profits from selling items related to incest, sex trafficking, and grooming of minors, according to endsexualexploitation.org/amazon

14. Amazon and affiliate web services host thousands of websites of prostitution and hardcore violent pornography.

DISCORD

15. Because of the nature of the anonymous and private groups, discord is a hotspot for places like white supremacy groups to meet up.

TWITTER

16. Research suggests that Twitter has a negative effect on learning.

17. Just like other apps, negativity spreads more effectively than good news.

18. Top Twitter cybersecurity reports found that a large amount of Twitter users are bots.

SNAPCHAT

19. When utilizing the “snapmap” feature, it allows other users to see someone's exact location down to the layout of the house when zoomed in enough.

20. Snapchat is a common avenue for users to buy and sell drugs.

21. The ability to snap, edit, and distribute photos also makes it a hub for cyber bullying.

NETFLIX

22. A 2018 study showed that kids spend 15 times more time watching Netflix than playing outside.

In conclusion, for all the good these apps do in our life, I would make the argument that many of them are actually not essential in our life. Only, it’s up to you to decide which are actually necessary and beneficial for you and your family and which are better to stay in the app store.

Jentrie Hales is a community advocate with five years’ experience empowering parents and children in different settings. She has been invited into classrooms, youth groups, and parent groups throughout the Cache Valley to speak about healthy relationships with tech and

professionally mentors families that feel overwhelmed with managing the tech in their home. Follow her on Instagram @techhealthyfam or email her at techheatlhyfam@gmail.com.

Seven Tips for Decorating Cookies with Kids

Gingerbread Cookie Dough Bites

MEGAN OSTLER, MS, RDN @meganjanesplate

These little bites make the perfect, packable snack or satisfying dessert. They taste just like gingerbread cookie dough, but thanks to the fiber and healthy fats from the nuts and oats, they are super filling. Make them extra festive by dipping them in white chocolate and adding a few holiday sprinkles.

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 10 minutes

Makes 20 large (40 small) bites

Serving size: 1 bite

INGREDIENTS

2 cups whole, unsalted almonds

1/2 cup chopped walnuts

1 cup old-fashioned oats

1 Tablespoon cinnamon

2 teaspoons ginger

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup pure maple syrup

3 Tablespoons molasses

1/4 cup water (add 1 Tablespoon at a time to desired consistency)

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 400-degree Farhenheit.

2. On a cookie sheet, spread the almonds, walnuts, and oats evenly.

3. Toast for 8-10 minutes until the nuts start to release their oil and become fragrant.

4. Remove from oven and add to the food processor.

5. Blend until well chopped and starting to form a dough. You may need to scrap the sides.

6. Continue blending and add the remaining ingredients through the opening at the top of the food processor. Add 1 Tablespoon of water at a time until a dough forms. Again, you may need to scrap the sides to help everything get incorporated.

7. Once a thick dough forms, roll into balls.

8. These are ready to eat, but if you want to make them extra festive, you can drip them in melted chocolate.

Allow to cool and enjoy!

Entertain Kids on the Go with Podcasts and Audiobooks

RACHEL COTTRELL contributing writer

Preparing for a big family trip is something I simultaneously look forward to and dread. The opportunity to spend quality family time together is a good one, but the idea of entertaining my kids for long periods of travel time is always a bit daunting. Whether we’re on a plane or on the road, I’ve found that the travel portion of the trip always goes better when I am prepared with snacks, activities, and other travel essentials.

That being said, if I’m funding a big trip, I’m not all that interested in adding to the overall expense by buying and packing trinkets and small car- or plane-friendly activities. I also think it’s really important to teach my kids that it’s OK to just be present, or even bored. This desire, paired with a move to the south end of

the Valley where we find ourselves with a lot more time in the car on a day-to-day basis, led me to audiobooks and podcasts as a simple way to fill time, whether we’re in the car for five minutes or five hours.

Podcasts and audiobooks are an awesome way to entertain kids. They’ve prompted familywide discussions, sparked an interest in my kids for things I never would have thought they’d have an interest in, and allowed us to enjoy a simpler, more peaceful ride than one filled with pestering or singing (screaming) along to the Zombies 3 soundtrack on repeat. In the current digital age, where we’re not dependent on a WIFI or phone carrier service connection to consume this form of entertainment, you don’t have to plan too far ahead to have enough

time to download some content to your phone before your journey begins on the road or in the air.

If this holiday season includes family travel, take advantage of some audial entertainment, and be sure to check out these favorites from our family:

AUDIOBOOKS

Whether you’re subscribing to a service like Audible or utilizing your local library’s digital reservation system and CD books, stocking up on books of interest to each family member is beyond easy. My twin boys just turned 6, and these are some of our favorite audiobooks we’ve tried:

The Magic Misfits by Neil Patrick Harris

A magician himself, Neil Patrick Harris has crafted a spectacular puzzle of a series about a young boy named Carter and his newfound friends as they solve the secrets of their town, Mineral Wells. There are four books in the series and my boys were engaged through all four. Neil Patrick Harris reads the first book himself and has such an entertaining nature that I was hooked too!

Junie B. Jones by Barbara Park

We are big fans of Junie B. My boys relate to her imagination and style of communication (which makes sense, as they’re the same age). These books are quick and perfect for a short journey or to finish within a day’s errand run.

Harry Potter by JK Rowling

Use discretion with younger children, but as a self-proclaimed Potterhead, I’ve always known my kids would get introduced to this franchise early. We enjoyed a lot of entertainment value from Jim Dale, the award-winning narrator of continued on next

… continued from previous page this series. He’s created more than 200 distinct voices for all the characters which added a layer of enchantment for my kids as they could follow along with the story much better.

PODCASTS

Always accessible and constantly filling our feeds with fresh content, podcasts are a great way to find bite-sized chunks of entertainment (perfect for young minds with short attention spans). Here are some of our favorites:

Brains On

Brains On is a classic, for good reason. This science-based podcast was our first foray into the world of kid-focused audio content and the format couldn’t be more entertaining. The host, Molly Bloom, introduces topics like the science of sleeping brains, why poop is so funny to talk about, and, our favorite episode, Crystals: More Than Just Shiny Rocks. Each episode is co-hosted by a kid and also includes recurring segments like mystery sounds and interviews with experts on the topic.

Million Bazillion

I’m entrepreneur-minded at heart and talking

about money is something I always enjoy, especially when I’m able to teach my kids the beauty of building your own wealth. Million Bazillion answers questions that might be too complex or awkward to bring up with your kids yourself, but they help start the conversation so you can carry it on outside of the car. We’ve loved listening to episodes about what grownups do with their money, why kids can’t have jobs, and even why girls’ things sometimes cost more than boys things.

Short & Curly

Our family conversations started to get really philosophical, really quick after listening to Short & Curly. The Australia-based hosts take us through some common ethical dilemmas and discuss them with youngsters from around the world. If one student steals a cookie from their teacher’s desk, and no one fesses up, should the whole class be punished? We should be kind to all, but are there any times when you should stop being friends with someone? Like I said, pretty philosophical for a Kindergartner.

Six Minutes

When Holiday (an 11-year-old with no memory

of any previous life) is rescued from the water by a family on a nearby boat, she is welcomed into their home as a member of their family. However, she soon starts to wonder whether their rescuing her was a coincidence or planned, and also whether they might know more about her than she knows herself. The unique format of this show (each episode is only six minutes of the story) allows you to jump in and out when you have time and still manages to captivate young minds in that short time frame.

Story Pirates

Story Pirates takes short stories and ideas from kids and fleshes them out into mini performances, often including Broadway stars and famous voices singing original songs based on the content. The story concepts are really clever, and the tunes often play on repeat in my own head days later — they’re catchy!

Whether you’re traveling for holiday festivities, family fun, or even just a daily trek across Cache Valley, enable your Bluetooth and enjoy a new form of entertainment as a family.

A Season for Togetherness: Family Traditions

MELANIE CHRISTENSEN curriculum administrator, Little Wonders Learning Center

Tis the season for holiday parties, gatherings and events! The holidays can be a busy time, but they are also the perfect time to increase family togetherness and focus on important traditions that create lasting memories. Family traditions have the power to increase a child’s self-esteem and sense of belonging. They provide a sense of consistency and security that have a positive impact on a child’s development and wellbeing. This holiday season take time to participate in timehonored family traditions and perhaps add a few new ones to your list. Here are five ideas to get you started:

1. Go on a snow walk. The first snowfall of the season is magical. Bundle up and head outdoors. This simple activity can be a great bonding opportunity for your family and provide time to connect and spend quality time together. Complete your family snow walk with a cup of hot cocoa and a fun holiday story or board game.

2. Christmas light tour. Break out your festive pajamas and pile into the family vehicle. Drive around your neighborhood to scope out the seasonal light displays. Create a family award

or simple treat to leave on the doorstep of your family’s favorite display. This provides an opportunity to perform a simple act of kindness to let others know how much you appreciate their effort to spread holiday cheer.

3. Host a Christmas craft party. Invite some of your children’s friends over to make a Christmas craft and enjoy holiday treats. Ornaments, paper crafts, and painting are all fun options. Consider making reindeer food to send home with each participant to leave for Santa’s reindeer on Christmas Eve.

4. Make Christmas cards to send to grandparents and other loved ones. Set out construction paper, markers, stickers, and other embellishments and let your children explore their creative side as they create a meaningful gift to brighten someone’s day.

5. Make a family Christmas playlist and have a dance party. Encourage each family member to add some of their favorite songs. Set out a disco ball or dance by the light of the Christmas tree and enjoy giggles and good times with your little ones as you rock out to your favorite Christmas tunes.

Traditions are powerful opportunities to make memories with the people you love the most. As you intentionally create and implement traditions in your home, you strengthen family bonds and give your children the gift of time and happy memories.