Editor’s note – This article was originally published in the Aug. 9 edition of
CENTERVILLE—Ben Kjar has always been disobedient to being average. He believes no matter what happens in life, everyone has that moment when they can choose to be the victim or the victor. Kjar has Crouzon syndrome and he is the subject of the upcoming documentary “Stand Out,” directed by Tanner Christensen that is slated to be released in October 2025.
Crouzon syndrome is also known as craniofacial dysotosis, it is a genetic syndrome in which the seams of the skull fuse in abnormally. This affects the shape of the head and face. Gene mutations are responsible for the abnormal skull fusions.
Kjar, who grew up in Centerville, plays himself looking back to moments in his life that were pivotal.
“It’s super humbling,” said Kjar. “The Christensens are doing a fantastic job and they’re great to work with.”
Five-year-old Colton Fielding plays Kjar as a child going through the checkout line at Dick’s in Centerville. Another shopper and his children treat him as though he is scary and the dad hurries his children away.
“I’m humbled that Colton’s family is willing to do this,” Kjar said. “It’s hard to recreate this but we’re doing the best we can. This is exactly what happened to me when I came through the line at Dick’s.”
Kjar said in the moment he was shattered. “I could change my shoes or shirt but I couldn’t take this away.”
Another scene depicts Kjar’s childhood home. “I ran into the bathroom and shut the door,” he said. “I physically tried to
Which haunted house is the best in Utah?
By Bailey Chism | bailey.c@thecityjournals.com
When does “spooky season” really start? For most of the haunted attractions in Utah, the answer appears to be September.
But when the attractions open, how do you know where to go? Well, reviews have a lot to say when it comes to that. Here are the most highly rated haunted attractions in Utah.
Some attractions may not be included on this list if certain information – such as Google reviews, websites, or a 2024 schedule – was not available.
Castle of Chaos Haunted House and Escape Rooms, Midvale
Castle of Chaos Haunted House and Escape Rooms is a year-round attraction that has earned a 4.6-star rating from more than 2,600 Google reviews. The attraction has a 3.7-star rating from 110 reviews on Yelp.
The haunted house attraction is scheduled to open Sept. 6 and will run most weekends for the remainder of September. In October, the haunted house will be open for most days except for the first three Wednesdays.
The haunted escape rooms have many different themes: Paranormal, “Nightmare Realm,” serial killer, asylum, and lockdown. Tickets for the escape rooms range from $27 to $30.
The haunted house starts at $20 for groups of one to six people.
Nightmare on 13th, Salt Lake City
Nightmare on 13th is a haunted house located in Salt Lake City – its website declares its “Utah’s #1 scariest haunted house,” and the attraction boasts a 4.5-star rating from more than 2,000 Google reviews. On Yelp, the haunted house has a 4-star average from about 80 reviews.
Nightmare on 13th is scheduled to open Friday, Sept. 13 and will run on Fridays and Saturdays for the remainder of September. In October, the haunted house will be open most days except Sunday. The haunted house will also run the first two days of November.
Tickets can range from $25 to $76 depending on the days and times you choose to attend.
Fear Factory, Salt Lake City
Fear Factory in Salt Lake City is located at 666 W. 800 South, and says on its website that it’s “one of the top Halloween attractions in the world.”
Based on more than 2,600 Google reviews, it averages a 4.4-star rating from visitors. On Yelp, it averages a 3.3-star rating from just over 110 reviews.
Fear Factory is set to open Friday, Sept. 6 and will be open on weekends in September before opening Wednesday through Sunday for most of October. The haunted house will be open for “Lights Out Night” on the first two days of November.
Tickets for Fear Factory can range from about $30 to about $250 depending on which experiences and souvenirs you’re interested in.
Haunted Forest, American Fork
The Haunted Forest in American Fork averages about 4.2 stars from almost 1,300 Google reviews, and 2.8 stars from 33 Yelp reviews.
The attraction doesn’t have a set schedule available online for 2024, but has advertised its featured attractions for 2024: Leech Lagoon at Bone Creek and Alien Attack. Strangling Brothers Haunted Circus, American Fork
The Strangling Bros. Haunted Circus in American Fork has earned a 4-star rating from more than 660 reviews on Google. On Yelp, it’s garnered a 2.8-star rating from about 40 reviewers.
The haunted circus’s website said it was “voted the #1 scariest haunted house in Utah” but it also offers visitors the chance to walk through the forest without the scare actors.
The circus is expected to begin Friday, Sept. 13 and will continue on Fridays and Saturdays for the rest of the month. Starting Oct. 1, the attraction will be open most days except Sunday.
Tickets for the haunted attraction can range from $30 to $80 depending on whether you purchase general admission, fast pass, or VIP tickets.
Other Haunted Options
While there are far more haunted attractions than those listed, the attractions listed above are what the pub-
THE CITY JOURNALS TEAM
The City Journal is a monthly publication distributed directly to residents via the USPS as well as locations throughout Bountiful and West Bountiful.
Our mission is to inform and entertain our community while promoting a strong local economy via relevant content presented across a synergetic network of print and digital media.
PUBLISHER
Designed, Published, & Distributed by
Nightmare on 13th is scheduled to open Friday, Sept. 13 and will run on Fridays and Saturdays for the remainder of September. Courtesy Nightmare on 13th Facebook
Here’s the scoop – Baskin Robbins arrives at Station Park
By Shania Emmett | s.emmett@mycityjournals.com
Anewice cream restaurant has made its way into Station Park. And that place is Baskin Robbins. Baskin Robbins had their official grand opening on Aug. 17. The celebration started at 11 a.m. and went until 11 p.m. when they closed.
When they opened the shop, they had the shop decorated with various balloons and colorful decorations. Outside, the entrance was dotted with pink, blue, purple and white balloons. A balloon arch also decorated the entrance almost as if it was framing the shop itself. And to the enjoyment of many kids who came that day, they had an ice cream cone mascot in front of the store as well, dancing to the music provided by the radio station they had hired for the day’s festivities.
Inside it was decorated with balloons and they had a wheel people could spin to win prizes such as a free ice cream, discounts of their products, or even some Baskin Robbins merchandise. The main reward customers got to try and spin for though, is the possibility of winning free ice cream for a year.
“It’s really nice to have a Baskin Robbins so close to home,” one customer said. “Station Park doesn’t have many ice cream joints, so now that this is here, it’s rather nice.”
Besides the festivities, people were able to buy any of the ice cream they offered for just $2 a scoop. So a half-price offer from what they initially charge at $4 a scoop.
“Even though we didn’t manage to get the free ice cream for a year – which was a bit of a bummer, We are still really glad that we’re able to have Baskin Robbins in Station Park now,” another customer who came in said.
Baskin Robbins is the first ice cream place to become available in Station Park. It has replaced the former dessert restaurant Yonuts. As a well-known ice cream restaurant it offers a multitude of ice cream flavors for customers to choose from. From the classic chocolate to several customers’ favorite Oreos Cookies and Cream.
They also offer a variety of ice cream cakes, ice cream floats and shakes even a variety of coffee drinks.
A favorite of a lot of the customers seems to be the cookie cake that they offer. But aside from the cookie ice cream cake they also offer several other ice cream cakes as well. Customers can even get a custom flavor for their cake.
“After not having a good place to get ice cream for so long here in Station Park, it is really great that we can now have Baskin Robbins here,” said one customer. “Especially during this summertime heat.”
It was a good move for Baskin Robbins to move into this spot in Station Park. Many of the residents seem excited about the new opportunity. l
The Ice Cream Cone Mascot greets customers at the new store. Photo by Shania Emmett
Continued from front page
take my face off. I was bawling, my mom came in and we collapsed to the floor. While she was holding me she told me, ‘Ben you’re different and you’re going to make a difference. You’re going to want to be normal and fit in but you were born to stand out.’”
The goal is to change the narrative, said Kjar. “To not do what is expected. To not decide what’s normal and not normal. We’re created to be version 1.0, we’re not meant to be in anyone’s shadow. My parents taught me to shine my light.”
Colton’s mother Anneli Fielding is grateful Kjar came into their life. “I’m really happy
that Colton has made a strong connection with Ben. He’s a great example of strength for him. He already loves Ben. He said he’s excited ‘because Ben has Crouzon like me.’”
Anneli said Colton has experienced some teasing as well. “We’ve had some hard things. It’s mostly kids who are curious or they say he has weird, crazy eyes. He says ‘I don’t want kids to look at my eyes.’”
With this movie, Anneli said she hopes people will be more understanding of differences. “I hope it helps people to be aware of differences even if it’s not Crouzons.”
Christensen’s father is T.C. Christensen, who has made several movies such as “Escape from Berlin” and “17 Miracles.” “I’ve pretty
much edited all of T.C.’s films and I’ve done a number of outside projects,” said Tanner. “I’ve been able to learn from T.C. and this has given me the opportunity to step in and do my own film.”
Kjar said his mom put him in several different activities growing up. “She had me clogging, and singing. I played the piano, I was in band and orchestra. She gave me every opportunity until I found something I could call my own something that gave me confidence. For me that ended up being wrestling.”
It’s important to be willing to fail, he said. “You still have to give it a whirl. It might be ugly at first but in the messiness you’ll find beautiful things. I learned that at a young age.”
ChildKjar said this documentary is a way for him to pay it forward. “I wish I would have had this (film) when I was younger. This gives Colton’s parents an access point to talk about the dark and light moments and to celebrate with them.”
People can claim victimhood, he said. “They say, ‘poor me, poor me.’ It’s easy to lay down and not show up. First of all you need to show up for yourself and second you need to show up and give back, to spread joy and happiness and a bit of hope.”
Everyone has struggles, said Kjar. “You can choose to be a victim or choose to stand out and not just fit in.” l
Rise in counterfeit car seats poses risks for children’s safety, experts warn
safety advocates at Intermountain Primary Children’s Hospital are raising concerns about an increasing number of parents unknowingly purchasing counterfeit car seats online. These fake products, often sold at steep discounts, can put children at serious risk of injury or even death in the event of a crash.
These counterfeit seats are typically bought online and are particularly attractive to parents due to their lower prices compared to well-known brands. What makes the situation more confusing is that these counterfeit seats are often sold through third-party sellers on the websites of major national retailers.
“It’s hard to tell a car seat is counterfeit from a small picture online, and many parents think they found a great deal from a major retailer,” said Michelle Jamison, community health program manager at Intermountain Primary Children’s Hospital. “Once they realize there’s a problem and try to return it, the site they got it from has already been taken down.”
Intermountain Primary Children’s Hospital has long provided both in-person and virtual car seat checks to educate parents on
By Bailey Chism | bailey.c@thecityjournals.com
proper installation and correct use. Recently, caregivers have noticed a disturbing trend of counterfeit seats, or those failing to meet U.S. safety standards, being brought in for inspection.
These counterfeit car seats, while they may look legitimate and often come with a hefty price tag, lack crucial components that ensure a child’s safety in a crash. The hospital staff fears that using these seats could result in fatal consequences.
One such parent is Jilian Davis, who received a car seat as a gift during her pregnancy. The seat was purchased online from a major retailer by a family member. After giving birth in late June, her daughter spent two weeks in the NICU at Intermountain LDS Hospital & Intermountain Primary Children’s before they were ready to go home. It was then that a car seat technician helping them realized the seat was counterfeit.
“It’s completely shocking because this is my fourth child and I’ve never heard of this being an issue,” said Davis. “It’s scary to think I could have been driving around with my child in a car seat that’s dangerous.”
Intermountain Primary Children’s Hos-
pital provided Davis with a replacement car seat, but she is now determined to warn other parents about the risks of unknowingly purchasing a counterfeit product.
Experts advise that the safest way to avoid counterfeit car seats is to buy directly from the manufacturer’s website or to visit a store in person. These methods ensure that the car seat meets all safety standards.
“Parents may think an in-store purchase is more expensive but what they’re really getting is the peace of mind [that] their child’s car seat is safe,” said Jamison. “While some models are pricey, there are less expensive ones that are still crash tested and safe.”
To meet stringent federal safety standards, car seats sold in the U.S. must include a manufacturer’s label detailing the car seat’s name, date of manufacture, branding, model number, and expiration date. This information is crucial for registering the car seat, allowing manufacturers to notify owners of any recalls. Counterfeit seats often lack these details, rendering them ineligible for registration.
Additionally, car seats in the U.S. are required to have warning labels in both English and Spanish, typically found on the back of
the seat and near where the baby’s head rests. Counterfeit seats often omit these labels or include them in other languages, sometimes with grammatical errors.
A missing chest clip is another clear indicator that a car seat may be unsafe. These clips are mandatory in the United States but not in every country, which is why they are often absent in counterfeit models.
“If you determine that you have a counterfeit car seat, stop using it immediately and contact the retailer to notify them that they sold a counterfeit car seat,” Jamison said. “You may be able to recover the cost of the seat if you used a credit card or purchased through a major retailer.”
Parents are also encouraged to report counterfeit seats to STOPfakes.gov, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), or the U.S. Department of Commerce. Reporting to the state’s consumer protection agency is also advised.
For those seeking assistance in evaluating or installing a car seat, Intermountain Primary Children’s Hospital offers both virtual and in-person checks. Appointments can be made by calling 801-662-CARS. l
Ben Kjar (center) explains a scene to the cast of the documentary about his life.
T.C. Christensen (at the camera) and his son Tanner (front) direct a scene in the checkout line of the grocery store. Photos by Becky Ginos
Incarcerated kids at Farmington Bay Youth Center create mural of hope
By Becky Ginos | becky.g@thecityjournals.com
Editor’s
note
– This article was originally published in the Aug. 30 edition of The City Journal
Being in custody instead of in high school is a challenging situation for kids at the Farmington Bay Youth Center but they’ve been able to express themselves through a mural project at the facility called “The Marathon Continues,” which was unveiled last week.
The project was in partnership with The Utah Division of Multicultural Affairs, in collaboration with One Kind Act, Utah Division of Juvenile Justice and Youth Services, the Utah Division of Arts & Museums, and Ogden Contemporary Arts.
“This is groundbreaking work here,” said Curtis Bennett, executive director of One Kind Act A Day. “Some people would think finding kindness in this space would not be remotely possible. We’ve seen through these young men and young women that kindness belongs everywhere.”
The organization developed a curriculum that would be applicable and motivational as well, he said. “The team that helped teach it were people that were more their age. The right people to be involved in something like this to help them know what kindness is.”
The initiative was 30 days, said Bennett. “We had a muralist help them apply the learning
into a mural embedded with symbolism. There were 15 youth working over 10 weeks, seven partner organizations, two education artists and one mission – kindness.”
“When I started I invited them to share their thoughts and opinions on the question,” said Tracy Williams, Lead Muralist. “The question was, ‘what do you think is going to be the hardest part about this entire process and the reason why.’ I did that for several reasons and some of those reasons were a safe space for kids to share their thoughts, to share their feelings and to be seen without being judged and also so they can discover that vulnerability is a strength.”
The mural is brightly colored with flowers, chess pieces and blocks with positive messages. “Mind you some of our kids don’t come from loving homes,” said Williams. “Some of the trusted adults in their lives are not kind. One of the kids said, ‘I love, love for a miracle, people coming out and cheering for us.’”
Williams told the kids that when it comes to the flowers (on the mural) they are getting them today but at the same time continue to think of the next generations ahead. “This gives them something to look forward to when they’re here. Think of the ways you can look for them.”
The chess pieces mean to be strategic in life, she said. “You gotta take a couple of steps
ahead in order to get the results that you want. We can teach these skills but it’s up to you what you do with them.”
“I think I like those flowers because I feel like you can bloom, you know in your own ways and different colors,” said one incarcerated youth. “You don’t want to be the same color and if it’s the same flower it can be all different shapes. It can be small, ugly, right? But it’s alive.”
“I’m just glad to be here,” said another girl. “I feel like I just want to give a shout out to everyone who is here. Thanks for taking the time out of your life to be with us because sometimes we have found people don’t want to be with us because we’re locked up.”
Sometimes you make a mistake, she said. “Yeah, I’m incarcerated but it’s not who you are.” l
Davis’ Max Landon first at Davis Park; Woods Cross’ Dylan Markisich and Viewmont’s James Gardner share medalist honors at Eaglewood
By Catherine Garrett | c.garrett@mycityjournals.com
Davis
Davis’ Max Landon won medalist honors at Davis Park Aug. 27 with a five-under-par 66 to help the Darts take second as a team.
Jack Christiansen shot a 70 while Jackson Gross (73) and Jacob Merrill (74) were also in the 70s.
“We shot -1 as a team,” said head coach Josh Roberts. “I’m excited to see if we can build on this for our next match.” Woods Cross and Viewmont
Woods Cross’ Dylan Markisich and Viewmont’s James Gardner tied for first – along with Box Elder’s Kanyon DeRyke – at Eaglewood Aug. 27 with rounds of 71.
Markisich’s finish helped the Wildcats finish two strokes back of Bountiful for first place as a team with a score of 299. Lance Henriksen shot a 74, tying for sixth while Brooks Bybee and Jackson Bodily (77), Landon Day (78), Sam Bennett (79) and Josh Allen and Clayton Schmitt (80) also competed for Woods Cross at the tournament.
For Viewmont, Gardner’s top placement at Eaglewood along with Corver Barnes tying for 10th with a 76 led the Vikings to a 305, eight strokes off of first-place Bountiful. Other scores for Viewmont were Oliver Gladwell 77, Brigham Shupe 81, Chase Dalton 82, Joe Gladwell 83, Mike Archibald 88 and Kimball Essig 94.
At Eagle Mountain Aug. 26, the Wildcats had three golfers in the top 10 to take third place with a score of 296. Markisich had a 73, tying for sixth place, with Allen and Day tying for
ninth with rounds of 74. Other scores for Woods Cross were Henriksen 75, Bennett 76, Schmitt and Bodily 77 and Bybee 78.
“The scores at Eagle Mountain were pretty good for our entire region. First and fifth place were separated by only five shots,” said head coach David Simon. “It’s a super competitive region so you have to play some good golf every tournament.”
For Viewmont’s fifth-place finish at Eagle Mountain – with a score of 298, five strokes off of first place – Aug. 26, Gladwell shot a 72, tying for fourth, while Gardner’s 73 tied for sixth and Barnes’ 74 tied for ninth. Also competing for the Vikings were Dalton (79), Archibald (82), Shupe (83), Essig (86) and Jeremiah Tuimauga (102).
Bountiful
At Eaglewood Aug. 27, the Redhawks shot a 297, winning the tournament behind Jack Jordan and Ty Cottle’s 73s which tied them for fourth place and Luke Smith’s 75 (tied for eighth) and Cody Forbes’ 76 (tied for 10th).
Also competing for Bountiful were Jeff Danowski (77), Taylor Nardelli (85), Andrew Johnson (92) and Lincoln Smith (99).
Jordan was second at Eagle Mountain Aug. 26 with a round of 69 to help the Redhawks to a fourth-place showing with a team score of 297.
Other scores for Bountiful were Danowski 75, Luke Smith, 76, Forbes 77, Johnson 80, Cottle 81, Nardelli 82 and Jacob Packer. l
Davis High senior Max Landon shot a 66 to take medalist honors at Davis Park Aug. 27. Photo courtesy Josh Roberts
Farmington Bay Youth Center unveiled its new mural, “The Marathon Continues.” The mural captures their reflections on kindness and their vision for a hopeful and healing future. Photo by Becky Ginos
Station Park’s Summer Concert Series ‘rocks the park”
By Shania Emmett | s.emmett@mycityjournals.com
Station Park is known for its many events throughout the year. From their craft markets, to Family First Mondays, and even their yearly Halloween event Villains in the Village, there’s something for everyone. But an event that many seem to look forward to is the Summer Concert Series that they hold in the middle of Station Park itself by the fountain. Their Rock the Park event.
“We really want to be a place where people have special memories and celebrations,” Tammy Montoya, the Senior Marketing Manager for Station Park said. “We have the Rock The Park concert series. We have Family First Mondays. We have our Villains in the Village. We have all these established events that really become part of our guests’ memories. So that’s really what we wanted to do, is really be something more than just a shopping center to the community, to the area, to Farmington.”
Rock The Park has been going on for 12 years now and with their partnership with the local hospital, Common Spirit Holy Cross Davis they predict they will be able to keep up the event for a long time.
Rock The Park consists of several tribute bands throughout the summer showcasing different genres of music. Some of the popular ones this summer have been tribute bands that have done music from Abba and Def Leppard. The final one that they plan to showcase is a tribute band that does music from the Foo Fighters.
“They’re top-notch, and it’s such a treat to see how much joy everyone gets from the concert,” Montoya said. “It brings them back to their high school memories. Their kids grew up probably with the same music that they listened to when they were in high school, and now they get to enjoy it through these tribute bands.”
There’s a lot that goes on to create this event every summer. A variety of people come together to put together this concert series every year and each Friday. Several teams from Station Park each have their own duty. Housekeeping, concierge, marketing, and the different shops around the Station Park area, just to name a few.
“I’d like to say I do it all, but it definitely is not,” Montoya said. “My portion is to organize it, help get it funded, and then execute it on the day of. We have a housekeeping crew, security, our admin team, operations. It is all hands on deck. We contract them to be onsite and to do those tasks that are needed. And they all help in putting together this concert. Everyone has a hand in it.”
So it’s definitely a family project in a way, she said “I feel like all of us together work hard to create this event and to bring it to fruition. So it’s not only me, it’s all these people who help every week, set it up, tear it down, and do all the things that we need to do to make it happen. And I’m so thankful to have all of those departments and their support because I couldn’t do it by myself.” l
Relic & The Millennials entertain the crowd at the Rock the Park concert series at Station Park.
Photo courtesy of Station Park Facebook
Centerville needs a traffic calming policy,
By Linda Petersen | l.petersen@mycityjournals.com
CENTERVILLE—Centerville City offi-
cials trying to make city streets safer for residents are finding it’s not an easy proposition. At a recent Aug. 6 work session, the Centerville City Council discussed possible traffic calming measures for 100 South and 400 East, along with other city streets.
While the city council held the discussion in response to resident complaints about 100 South and 400 East, those gathered quickly came to the conclusion that the city needs a traffic calming policy so that measures would
be employed consistently across the community based on criteria established in the policy.
“If you do go in and implement some of these [suggestions], I think you need to be prepared with a comprehensive plan,” City Engineer Kevin Campbell said. “I don’t think that we can just say we’re just going to do this in one spot, because as soon as you do one of these in one spot, you’re going to have folks come out say, hey, well, I’d like to have [that].”
Municipalities employ several different measures, each of which have both positives and negatives, Public Works Director Mike Carlson said. For instance, while speed bumps/ humps can sometimes be effective, usually after installation residents in the neighborhood ask to have them removed, he said.
“In talking with a lot of people, the things that usually happen with speed bumps is, bottom line people want them in,” he said. “The second thing is they complain about the noises, because every time a trailer goes over the top of them, or a vehicle, you hear the bang or whatever. And then the next thing, which is kind of weird to me, which was a learning curve, was pollution. So, the car going over the top and the pollution, or the car taking off again, creates pollution – so starting and stopping in that. And usually, the last request is they want them removed.”
Speed bumps can also cause damage to fire engines and trucks going over them, along with making the ride especially difficult when they are transporting patients, Fire Chief Dane Stone said.
“I don’t know if anybody’s ridden in the back of an ambulance, but they are not made for patient comfort, and so any waterway that we hit or bump that we hit, that patient feels that,” Stone said. “And most of the time that we are taking patients off of Deuel Creek, they are in pain and to hit a traffic calming device, an elevated walkway, whatever is not favorable.”
The city has had some success with flashing speed feedback signs, Campbell said. Most motorists who see they are driving too fast will lower their speeds when they see them flashed on the signs, he said.
Police department speed traps can be less effective, Chief Allen Ackerson said. While Centerville police officers manned speeding hot spots 27 times from March to May, not a lot of citations were issued, he said. The presence of the officers did act as a deterrent while they were there, he said.
Other options are striping or shoulder buildouts.
I was thinking of what’s on Main Street, which is just sort of a shoulder,” Councilmem-
ber Gina Hirst said. “It’s more of an opportunity. I think drivers view that as like, ‘Oh, don’t go over the white line. And I think as far as children going up and down that street, it’s, the ability for the parents to say, ‘You need to stay on this side of the white line.’ It’s just an educational help.”
Curb extensions can be effective and have been successful in other Davis County communities, but they are pricy, Campbell said. “This can be much more expensive, but it can make the pedestrian feel safer, to give them more park strip and more space, to just feel more comfortable, and it has shown to slow the traffic down.”
While the city council held the discussion in response to resident complaints about 100 South and 400 East, those gathered quickly came to the conclusion that the city needs a traffic calming policy so that measures would be employed consistently across the community based on criteria established in the policy. Under that policy certain extenuating circumstances such as the lack of sidewalks or a lack of road curves would be considered.
The council did not take any action at the end of the discussion except to suggest city staff work on developing a policy. l
Fall fun for Centerville residents
Along with the tried and true, Centerville City is offering some popular tried and true activities along with a fun new escape room at the Whitaker Museum this fall.
On Sept. 12 at 6:30 p.m. join the Landmarks Commission for the annual Centerville Historic District – Home Walking Tour. The tour will begin at the white church by the water well, 200 South 200 East. There will be different homes to last year’s tour. Free.
Coming up on Thursday, Oct. 21 for those 12 and older the Whitaker Museum Board is putting on the museum’s first ever escape room “After Dark Spanish Gold.” Join the search for Great-Great- Uncle William’s Treasure Map. Fifteen-minute slots available; times will vary. Groups of five or less. Reservations are required.
Then on Monday, Oct. 14 the museum and the Centerville Youth Council will partner up for the annual Centerville Fall Festival at Smith Park, 300 North 100 East, Centerville, from 5 to 7 p.m.
Thanks to donations from Pack Farms and Rocky Mountain Power there will be plenty of pumpkins for carving and other activities this year. Community members can carve their own pumpkins ahead of time and drop them off between 4 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. Or they can show up beginning at 5 p.m. to carve free donated pumpkins. All will be entered in the contest where pumpkins will be judged and the top 10 carved, decorated, or painted pumpkins will receive prizes.
Along with the carving, local residents can enjoy pumpkin bowling and bite into some pumpkin doughnuts provided by the city. The event is free and open to everyone.
By Linda Petersen | l.petersen@mycityjournals.com
West, Farmington, where professional storytellers will share stories from each of the Davis County cities. Free.
At the CenterPoint Legacy Theatre, they’re offering 32 performances of “Into the Woods” which will be directed by Jared Haddock Sept. 20 to Oct. 19, at 7:30 p.m. with matinee on Saturday, Sept. 21 and Oct. 5 at at 3:30 p.m. with two matinees at noon and 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 12. There will be a special matinee ASL performance with a certified interpreter on Saturday, Sept. 28 at 3:30 p.m.. (Reserve tickets at least 48 hours in advance to ensure there will be an interpreter present).
“‘Into the Woods’ is a spellbinding Broadway musical that takes you on a captivating journey through the enchanting realm of fairytales,” the theatre’s website says. “With a Tony award-winning score by Stephen Sondheim, this ingenious production weaves together the timeless stories of Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack and the Beanstalk and Rapunzel, all with a unique twist. As the characters venture into the mysterious woods in search of their heart’s desires, they discover that getting what you wish for may not always lead to happily ever after. “
Tickets range from $22.50 to $35.50 weekdays and $24.50 to $37.50 on weekends. They can be reserved at https://www.tix. com/ticket-sales/centerpointtheatre.
UplandOn Thursday, Oct. 17, at 7 p.m. all of the Davis County museums are coming together to sponsor “Wild Wacky Weird Open Legends” at the Legacy Events Center, 151 South 1100
Centerville residents should also circle Tuesdays Dec. 3, 5, 10 and 12, 4 to 7 p.m. for the annual visit with Santa at the museum168 North Main St., Centerville. Free but reservations are required, and spots fill up fast. Reservations open on Nov. 11. Call Santa’s Helper, Lisa at 801-335-8843 to book your time. Walk-ins will only be taken if there are spots open. l
Get ready for Utah’s 2024 upland game season
season brings with it thoughts of birds erupting from brush, fast flying doves, and chukar flushing over high alpine canyons. It’s the perfect opportunity for hunters to get out, most birds are accessible to anyone with a valid Utah hunting license.
The Utah Upland Game Management Plan, approved in 2022, frames conservation of upland game in the state through 2032, containing resources for hunters, including distribution maps of the species.
The first bird available for hunting each year, mourning doves, increased across Utah due to favorable winters. They’re found near wheat, safflower, corn, and sunflower, which provide food and cover. The dove season runs from Sept. 2 to Oct. 30, providing ample time for hunters to pursue these agile birds.
White-winged doves are occasionally in the southwestern parts of Utah. Though considered a bird of the south, their range has expanded into the warmer parts of Utah.
Eurasian collared-doves are invasive birds, no bag limit or closed season. They can be hunted year round, making them perfect to chase this off-season.
“The weather in late August and early September can affect how many birds will be seen during the hunt,” said Heather Talley, Utah Division of Wildlife Resources Upland Game Coordinator. “Doves tend to begin mi-
By Bridger Park | b.park@mycityjournals.com
grating south when nighttime temperatures drop into the 50s and as days get shorter, so hunters should plan to target them earlier in the season to increase their chances of success.”
The band-tailed pigeon, in the southern parts of Utah, are larger and more elusive than their dove counterparts, inhabiting forested areas rich in Gambel oak, aspen, pine, spruce, and fir trees.
These birds require a permit and HIP number to hunt, although they are free on the DWR website. The pigeon hunting season is brief, running from Sept. 2 to Sept. 14.
It is expected to be a great year for grouse hunting in Utah, benefitting from last year's weather. Dusky grouse are similar in size to chickens. When fanned, their tail appears to have a band in it, with black feathers, except the tip, which is lighter gray.
Ruffed grouse, on the other hand, are found primarily in aspen stands, especially with a mix of shrubs and water sources. The dense cover they frequent, and their explosive takeoff makes ruffed grouse hunting a thrilling experience.
The season for dusky and ruffed grouse runs from Sept. 2 to Dec. 31, providing hunters with a long window to pursue these birds.
“Hunters who can locate the areas with the most berries should find good concentrations of ruffed grouse,” Talley said. “Dusky
grouse migrate upslope as the season progresses and can be found in high-elevation conifer forest areas by early October, while ruffed grouse will be found in aspen, with thick tree and shrub cover since they don’t make large movements like dusky grouse do.”
The white-tailed ptarmigan are well-adapted to high elevations and known for seasonal white plumages, which makes them difficult to spot in the snowy places they live. Look for them in areas with high elevation willow patches, and succulent green vegetation.
Chukar and gray partridge are thriving in Utah. Chukar have increased in areas like the Wasatch Front, Tooele County, and the West Desert ranges. These are the bird hunters bird,
fast and low flying, they live on steep slopes with rocks, bunchgrass, sagebrush or cheatgrass.
“If one of the birds sees you while the rest are feeding, it will call out to alert the others, helping you locate the rest of the group,” Talley said. “You may increase your success rate hunting near water, but chukars aren’t completely dependent on water, and rely on it even less as the season progresses. When winter hits, hunt the south-facing slopes, where the sun will be melting snow and warming the rocks, making the area enticing for chukars.”
Gray partridge, found in northern Utah, prefer agricultural fields and grassy areas near water, making them easier to pursue than chukar.
The season for both chukar and gray partridge runs from Sept. 28 to Feb. 15, with a special youth hunting season from Sept. 21 to 23.
The recent winters have provided a good excuse to get yourself in the field this year. Upland game species can be very boom or bust, so strike while the iron is hot, you never know what next year will bring.
Make sure to check the 2024-25 Upland Game Regulation Book for more rules, including what guns to hunt with. l
Community members can carve their own pumpkins at the Centerville Fall Festival. Photo Centerville City Facebook
A male chukar perched on an alpine rock. Photo courtesy DWR
Exploring the best mountain biking trails in Davis County
Davis County, nestled between the Wasatch Mountains and the Great Salt Lake, is a hidden gem for mountain biking enthusiasts. With its diverse terrain, stunning landscapes, and well-maintained trails, the county offers a thrilling experience for both beginners and seasoned riders. Here’s a look at some of the best mountain biking trails in Davis County that should be on every rider’s list.
Mueller Park Trail: A Classic Adventure
Mueller Park Trail is a must-ride for any mountain biker visiting Davis County. Located in Bountiful, this 6.8-mile out-and-back trail offers a mix of smooth single track, challenging climbs, and exhilarating descents. The trail winds through dense forests of oak and pine, offering shade and stunning views of the surrounding valleys. Riders will encounter a series of switchbacks that lead to the Elephant Rock viewpoint, where they can take a breather and soak in the panoramic vistas. The descent back is fast and flowy, making it a favorite for those seeking a fun and rewarding ride.
Bonneville Shoreline Trail: Scenic and Accessible
The Bonneville Shoreline Trail (BST) is a beloved route that stretches along the eastern edge of Davis County, offering stunning views of the Great Salt Lake and the valley below. The North Canyon segment of the BST is particularly popular among mountain bikers. This trail is relatively accessible, with moderate climbs and a mix of single track and double track sections. The trail’s proximity to
By Bailey Chism | bailey.c@thecityjournals.com
urban areas makes it a convenient choice for quick rides after work or on weekends. Despite its accessibility, the BST provides a sense of solitude as it meanders through scrub oak and sagebrush-covered hillsides.
Kaysville Wilderness Park: A Family-Friendly Option
For those looking for a more family-friendly mountain biking experience, Kaysville Wilderness Park is an excellent choice. The park features a network of beginner to intermediate trails that are perfect for riders of all ages and skill levels. The well-maintained single track loops through grassy meadows and shady groves, offering a gentle and enjoyable ride. The trails are short, making them ideal for introducing kids to the sport or for a quick ride to practice basic skills. The park’s convenient location near Kaysville also makes it a popular spot for locals looking for a casual biking outing.
Farmington Canyon: For the Adventurous
Rider
For those seeking a more challenging and remote experience, Farmington Canyon delivers. This trail is known for its steep climbs, technical sections, and breathtaking views. The ride begins with a rigorous ascent up the canyon, rewarding riders with sweeping vistas of the Wasatch Front and the Great Salt Lake. The descent is fast and technical, with rocky sections that demand focus and skill. Farmington Canyon is not for the faint of heart, but for experienced riders looking for an adrenaline rush, it’s an unforgettable adventure.
Tucked away in North Salt Lake, the Wild Rose Trailhead Park offers a lesser-known but equally enjoyable mountain biking experience. The trail system here is relatively short, but it packs a punch with its well-designed single track that winds through the foothills. The terrain is varied, with rolling hills, tight turns, and occasional rocky sections. The park’s trails are ideal for intermediate riders looking for a quick
but rewarding ride close to the city. Davis County may not be as well known as some of the state’s other mountain biking destinations, but it offers a wide range of trails that cater to all levels of riders. Whether you’re seeking a challenging adventure in the mountains or a leisurely ride through scenic landscapes, Davis County has something to offer. So, grab your bike, hit the trails, and discover the beauty and excitement that this hidden gem has to offer. l
Wild Rose Trailhead Park: A Hidden Gem
Bonneville Shoreline Trail
Mueller Park Trail Photos courtesy of AllTrails
Wild Rose Trail
Here’s what could happen after the fed meets in September
By Robert Spendlove, Zions Bank Economist
Atthe central bank’s annual retreat in Jackson Hole in August, Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell indicated plans to cut the federal funds rate when the Federal Open Market Committee meets next September 17-18. This will be the first rate cut in more than four years following a series of aggressive rate hikes — 11 over the span of a year and a half — aimed to tame inflation.
The last time rates fell was in March 2020 at the outset of the pandemic when the Fed held an emergency meeting, bringing rates near zero. The federal funds rate is currently set at a 23-year high of 5.25-5.5%.
As inflation has cooled, the effect of high rates has become more pronounced. The “real” federal funds rate, when adjusted for inflation, is the most restrictive it’s been in nearly two decades, raising fears that the Fed may be behind the curve in responding to a slowing economy, just as it was slow to raise rates in response to inflation.
The Federal Reserve is once again approaching a moment of truth. Can they stick the elusive “soft landing” in the economy — where growth slows but avoids a recession? Here’s what lowering rates might mean for the economy:
Borrowing will cost less. When the Fed lowers the federal funds rate, it becomes cheaper for banks to borrow, leading to a drop in interest rates across different loan types. Expect better deals on interest rates as lenders compete for low rates.
The housing market could improve. A silver lining of the recent market repricing is that mortgage rates are back to their lowest level since early 2023. Average rates on 30-year fixed rate mortgages have dropped more than 1% in the last few months, and some rates on 15-year fixed rate mortgages are back below 6%. A rate cut could help further thaw a housing market frozen by high mortgage rates and ease the burden on home buyers.
Spending may pick up. Retail sales grew 1% in July, the biggest monthly increase since early 2023. A monthly rebound in auto sales accounted for much of the jump but, even when excluding cars and gas, retail sales beat expectations. Lower interest rates may encourage consumers to finance big-ticket items like cars and homes, boosting demand for goods and services.
The job outlook remains uncertain. The latest jobs report forced investors and analysts to revisit their assessments of the economy. In July, hiring fell sharply and the unemployment rate ticked up for the fourth consecutive month. While 4.3% unemployment is low compared to long-term levels, unemployment can increase quickly in a deteriorating economy. By lowering the benchmark rate, the Fed hopes to encourage businesses to grow and hire new workers, keeping the job market strong.
Some prices could remain sticky. Inflation fell below 3% in July for first time since 2021. Food and energy prices have been slowing, with motor fuel prices dropping 2.3% nationally and 6.7% regionally over the past year. But other price categories remain sticky. Housing price growth, while moderating, is still too high at 4.4%. And service sector prices continue to grow too fast, rising 4.9% over the last year. Impending rate cuts will do little to relieve this price stickiness, absent a recession.
The U.S. dollar may weaken. Traveling abroad may get more expensive following a rate cut. While rising interest rates generally strengthen the U.S. dollar, falling rates tend do the opposite. A weaker dollar means international travel will cost more.
The fed will meet three times before the end of the year, but don’t expect to see interest rates drop to the historically low levels of recent years. While inflation is slowing, it remains above the Fed's preferred rate of 2%. The debate is now whether the Fed should shift its focus from maintaining price stability to supporting the labor market.
Robert Spendlove is senior economist for Zions Bank, a division of Zions Bancorporation, N.A
The five best international restaurants on the Wasatch Front
By Braden Nelsen | braden.n@mycityjournals.com
Sometimes,you just want something besides a burger and fries. There’s nothing wrong with a burger and fries, but, variety, as they say, is the spice of life. The melting pot of Utah has brought many people from all over the globe together, giving them the opportunity to take a culinary trip around the world, as it were. For those with an adventurous palate, here are the top five international restaurants along the Wasatch Front.
5. Se Llama Peru – Peruvian – Provo
Those who have never tried Peruvian food are in for a treat. A departure from common misconceptions of Latin American cuisine, Peruvian food uses a lot of potatoes, corn, and other staples to bring vibrant flavors to life. Traditional dishes like their Lomo Saltado, strips of tender steak cooked with peppers and onions on a bed of french fries, and Pollo a la brasa, a favorite grilled chicken dish popular amongst native Peruvians are bound to please, and don’t pass on the chicha morada either!
4. The Mandarin – American/Chinese –Bountiful
For American/Chinese favorites like General Tsao’s Chicken, Orange Chicken and more, The Mandarin in Bountiful can’t be beat. Served family style, the Mandarin’s cuisine is second to none in the region. The flavors are rivaled only by the presentation, which still includes white tablecloths and napkins, along with reusable chopsticks on each table. Seating is at a premium since the location is just so popular, so be sure to get in early.
3. Wellers – German – Layton
For those who have never had German food, imagine the most wholesome, filling,
and heart-warming down home cooking you’ve had, and multiply it by 10. German food is all about comfort, and feeling good while you eat it, and no one has mastered the cuisine of the country quite like Wellers in Layton. Patrons familiar with German food will find all their old favorites like schnitzel or bratwurst, but they’ll also find a few new things they may not be familiar with. At Wellers, you can’t go wrong.
2. Red Iguana – Mexican – Salt Lake
There is no shortage of options for Mexican food in the beehive state, but, the top of our list is Red Iguana. You won’t find any real “TexMex” at Red Iguana which may scare off some people, but for authentic, delicious and filling Mexican food, Red Iguana can’t be beaten. There are also plenty of options, especially when it comes to their famous Mole, a sauce and marinade that has many different flavors and recipes. You’ll want to try each of them, with either your entree or just some chips. Be sure to get there early, or order your food to go – space is limited, and the line forms early.
1. Bombay House – Indian – Provo
The number one pick for this list had to be Bombay House in Provo. The line out the door most nights would be enough to tell you that something special is going on in there, but allow us to elaborate. From the familiar curries and saag to the lesser-known makhani and biryani it’s difficult to narrow down your options at Bombay House. While you may be tempted to have a bit of sticker shock, the food is worth every penny, and the service is second to none. For these reasons, and many more, Bombay House takes the number one slot on this list. l
One of Weller’s most popular dishes, the Jägerschnitzel with mushroom gravy. Photo Courtesy of Jan Weller
USU Botanical Center offers both special events and educational opportunities
USU
Botanical Center Director Jerry Goodspeed recently addressed the City Council to update them on happenings at the Botanical Center as well as the Agricultural Heritage Center. He said the indoor arena was opened the end of October/first of November; they have had 53 paid events. This means that someone has registered the facility for one day to two-three days, and there have been 4,150 registered participants (which does not include families and friends this brings to the community). He said open ride is available throughout the week when the facility is not booked for an event.
Types of events at the facility include: team roping, barrel racing, team pinning, mounted western shooters, adult horse shows, 4-H and Youth horse shows, dog shows, community Christmas events and livestock shows. Goodspeed said his main goal was to get the Equine Assistant Service Program up and running. They have hired someone to be on site, have two mini ponies, and are in the process of getting some horses. These horses and ponies can be taken to veterans or other types of individuals who have encountered traumatic experiences and are a proven method of victim advocacy.
Goodspeed said there are educational opportunities for children and adults at the Botanical Center, which also features a much-loved urban fishery, walking and biking trails, wetland areas that support birds and other wildlife, multiple volunteer-tended gardens, an arboretum and a full schedule of classes, workshops, educational field trips and other
Somereading this article may already be familiar with the Scandinavian term, “Hygge” (roughly pronounced Hee-yougah) but for the rest, what does it mean? Where did it come from? And why is it a movement worth spearheading, especially here in Davis County?
Hygge is a term originating in Denmark and Norway and centers around what those in the United States would deem cozy, and centered on well-being. The word itself, interestingly enough, comes from the Old Norse word, “Hugr,” which was the Norse embodiment of mind, or soul, the essence of what made a person themselves. So, what does coziness have to do with the soul? Plenty.
Since there have been people living there, the Scandinavian way of life has been a rough and ready one. Growing crops in a subarctic climate is difficult, and making a living off the sea means many cold and wet days. This can easily take a toll on a person, especially mentally. It’s almost an amplification of what modern medicine has called, Seasonal affective disorder, or, the apt acronym SAD.
As described by Johns Hopkins, SAD “happens during certain seasons of the year, most often fall or winter. It is thought that shorter days and less daylight may set off a chemical change in the brain leading to symptoms of depression.” It only makes sense, therefore, that the people living in
By Cindi Mansell | c.mansell@mycityjournals.com
events. The gardens, ponds, and trails are open from sunrise to sunset with no entrance fee.
Other programs include yoga and tai chai in the garden, plant diagnostic clinics, as well as the Edible Demonstration Garden where the center has 100 varieties of fruits and vegetables. The garden was installed in 2015 with the purpose of showcasing different and unique varieties of edible crops that can be successfully grown in Northern Utah. Goodspeed said “this type of learning is specifically applicable when considering recent food security issues.” Every Wednesday evening from 6:30 – 8 p.m., the public is invited to a free event to sample different garden produce tastings or tour the gardens (Taste, Tour, Ta-Dah Event). Staff is onsite to dis-
cuss gardening, mite or grasshopper remediation, and any other topic related. Live performances from local musicians will also take place from 7-8 p.m. weekly at the event.
Goodspeed said the plan this fall is to offer the Scarecrow Walk again and his hope is for Youth City Council assistance. He said it is so fun to watch them and it brings their families and friends in to the event. New this year will be the Reindeer Express, with Santa Claus and a few other things on Saturdays in December.
Goodspeed said the center works in tandem with Colorado State University to trial different plant species. He said the goal is to develop better perennials for landscaping; to date they have introduced five new colors and plants into the nursery. The Rasmussen Teaching Garden has those plants and they are hoping to show plants that are native to the intermountain area as they work toward developing dryer landscape plants. He said the USU Research Farm does a lot of plant and botanical research; and the successful projects are brought down into the demonstration garden to show the public. He said there are interns that come from colleges and spend the summer to bring their ideas into the program.
Mayor Tamera Tran said “Jerry Goodspeed was recognized as the 2024 Unsung Hero for Kaysville City.” She said in addition to creating the wonderful facility at USU, he is also a long-time resident. The Council thanked Goodspeed for the update and for all that he does. l
Hygge – what is it, and what are its benefits?
By Braden Nelsen | braden.n@mycityjournals.com
Scandinavia, experiencing dramatically shorter and colder days in the winter, would put an emphasis on being cozy.
But, what does it mean to be cozy? The formal definition of the word is, “giving a feeling of comfort, warmth, and relaxation.” This makes sense in the Scandinavian sense of Hygge. Surrounding oneself, one’s home, and family with warmth, comfort and relaxation would certainly stave off the cold and the symptoms of SAD. What about the rest of the world, though? And what about the rest of the year, when it’s too warm to bundle up in a blanket with a warm beverage?
Hygge, as hinted at above, is more of a mindset and a lifestyle than an actual set of rules bound to one definition. Perhaps, Hygge and coziness in the warmer months is an emphasis on comfort: a comfortable couch, a beachside vacation, even camping. Maybe it’s being with the important people in life more often, family and friends. It could well be that Hygge is simply feeling cozy and comfortable regardless of the circumstances.
Of course, nothing beats the comfort and coziness of home and hearth. For many people in Davis County, the day-to-day generally doesn’t involve going out fishing in stormy arctic seas, but, life itself can provide plenty of storms to test the will and mettle. Regardless of the storms each person faces in life, it’s imperative to have a place to go to in order to escape those storms, a fortress, a bastion, a haven.
Whatever shape it may take, it’s important to make home that haven. Whether it’s an apartment, a trailer, a traditional house, or any other of many different homes, there’s much that can be done to make it cozy, comfortable and Hygge. Davis County, along with many places in Utah, is fortunate to be home to Deseret Industries, and other second-hand stores that provide a place for those in need of furniture, clothing, and homeware to get those things that make a home Hygge without breaking the bank.
To people in the United States, who pride themselves on being tough and independent, a concept like hygge may seem unnecessary, even a luxury, but to those tough and independent people of the frozen north, it’s a necessity. Maybe this is one thing that the people of the west, particularly in Davis, can adopt as a necessity as well, a haven of coziness, whether that be a home or a state of mind.
Hygge means different things to different people. Maybe your version of Hygge means reading a good book under a blanket. Photo by Alice Hampson, public domain
Bell Trophy’
By Maclane Westbrook | m.westbrook@davisjournal.com
With the return of the college football season, comes the return of great traditions of the sport. Homecoming, tailgating and rivalries make college football the spectacle which captures the attention of the country.
However, in the Mountain West region, spirited rivalries can sometimes be hard to come by given the geographical distance between teams. The Weber State Wildcats play in the Big Sky Conference, which contains teams from Montana to California. Teams are often separated by many miles of road. The Wildcats are lucky to have a rival about a two hour drive away – the Idaho State Bengals, from Pocatello, Idaho.
Even though the Wildcats and Bengals are closer than most teams, the rivalry still hasn’t always been the most passionate. Sure, last year’s basketball season saw Idaho State’s Jungle Student Section wear “BEAT WEBER” shirts when the Wildcats came to Pocatello, but the football series has hardly been competitive as of late. Bengal football has only beaten Weber State twice since 2002 in the annual matchup. Idaho fans might remember the days when the rivalry was at its fiercest point, but recent generations might find it difficult to care about a one-sided series.
There is renewed optimism in Pocatello, with second-year head coach Cody Hawkins
working to rebuild the program. However, even if the matchup does get closer, it still might take something else to drum up passion for the rivalry. That something may just be
stored away in the Weber State Archive.
lections & University Archival Coordinator at Weber State, a position she has held for 13 years. She says while the bell is still in retirement, it gets put on display every homecoming week for students to come look at, and hear its very loud ring. Recently, some students have begun to be interested in the trophy’s history, as well as its future.
Harris says students at both Weber and Idaho State have reached out in the last year about the trophy, looking to confirm that it still exists. There has been talk of bringing the rivalry bell out of retirement, but so far nothing has been made official. When asked for comment, Paul Grua, Weber State Director of Athletic Communications stated that WSU athletics is “looking into the Train Bell Trophy and are working with Idaho State to bring it back.”
Across the border in Pocatello, Pauline Thiros, Idaho State University Athletic Director, emphasized the Bengal’s enthusiasm for a potential return of the train bell. “Idaho State is all for it,” she said. “The Train Bell Trophy symbolizes the fierce and respected rivalry between Idaho State and Weber State. I, along with The Jungle of ISU, and all of our students, will be excited and appreciative if the Wildcats are willing to bring the Train Bell Trophy out and put it on the line this year.”
When the Big Sky Conference was formed in 1963, Idaho State and Weber State made natural rivals, being not only close in proximity, but connected by the railroad that ran through Pocatello and Ogden. For the first six years of the rivalry, students from each school would take turns riding a “game train” to the other campus for the annual football game, a practice that died out when passenger rails left the area. This inspired the Weber State student government to secure an old locomotive train bell in 1964. According to Weber State’s digital exhibits, the bell “rings like the dickens,” and serves as a traveling trophy awarded to the winning school of the game typically held during homecoming week. From 1964 to 1973, the Bengals and Wildcats competed for the Train Bell Trophy a total of 10 times, with Weber winning it a total of seven times.
It’s difficult to tell exactly what happened following 1973, but after Weber State retained the trophy in a 38-23 victory, the bell was retired and ended up in the Weber State Archives, where it sits today.
Kandice Harris is the WSU Special Col-
Weber and Idaho State are no strangers to rivalry trophies. In 2022, Weber State and Northern Arizona football began playing for the Red Rock Rivalry Trophy. The trophy symbolizes the iconic geography of Utah and Arizona. In recent years, Idaho State and University of Idaho have reintroduced the King Spud Trophy in basketball, and introduced the Potato State Trophy in football, obviously playing off of the state’s top crop.
Those rivalry trophies had the added complications of being conceived and constructed out of scratch. The Train Bell Trophy already exists however. It just needs to be brought out of the archives and back onto the football field.
“I am always a fan of history being reinstated,” Harris said about bringing the trophy out of retirement. “That would be amazing.”
A Wildcat at heart, however, Harris pointed out she’s not worried about it leaving. “I’m pretty confident in Weber State’s football team, so it would stay here anyway.”
Idaho State travels to Ogden Nov. 9 to play the Wildcats at Stewart Stadium. l
The historical Train Bell Trophy still sits in the Weber State University archives. Photo by Maclane Westbrook
Landfill thrift store offers unexpected benefits to county
By Braden Nelsen | braden.n@mycityjournals.com
When most people hear the word “landfill” the image that comes to mind is likely a pit full of trash. While the Wasatch Integrated Waste Management District (WIWMD) in Layton certainly has a spot for trash like that, there is so much more that the people there are doing to not only properly dispose of waste, but also make the entire region, including Morgan, a much better place.
Nathan Rich, Executive Director of the WIWMD said that the idea for the thrift store came about simply because at the landfill, they are always “trying to be a little bit better,” and his entire team’s belief that they can and should “handle waste like a resource.” Like many other facilities around the country, the WIWMD has on-site recycling for things like metal, tires, appliances, plastics, paper and so forth, but still, Rich and his team wanted to do more.
“It’s like a puzzle,” said Rich, “we add pieces to do better as much as we can.” One piece came about as Rich and others noticed the tremendous amount of perfectly good items coming through in increasing quantities, “It’s stunning what people throw away” said Rich, adding, “We’re generating more garbage, not less.” The solution to this waste came through attending a conference in which Rich and his team discovered that a landfill in California has a “Last Chance” thrift shop.
Utilizing resources they already had, WIWMD repurposed an existing building, a recycling drop-off which was ill-used due to curbside recycling bins, and 10 years ago opened their own thrift store. “We recycled that building,” Rich joked. The program has seen tremendous success since then, nearly doubling revenue over the past 10 years. But how are the items in the store sourced?
The Sustainability Specialist at WIWMD, Collette West and Rich explained that there’s about a 50-50 split in the sourcing of items for the shop. Half, they said, comes from people dropping off items at the landfill, items that are recovered by employees before they hit the pit, and the other half from donations. Although it’s a small space, there is an amazing variety of like-new items, including everything from furniture to scuba gear, and, as Rich said, they “price it to move it.” Most hot-ticket items
don’t last long.
Looking around the shop itself, they weren’t kidding. “It’s a lot cheaper than even DI or Goodwill,” said Collette, and the stickers prove it. These low prices go a long way to helping lower-income populations around the region with everything from dining room sets to lawn mowers all in outstanding condition, but for the collectors, there are still things off the beaten path. West and Rich explained that there’s a little bit of everything that comes through the shop, including pristine exotic taxidermy, pianos, organs, and even a vintage, functional slot machine.
This could explain why, while many in the county are still unaware of the shop, many are not only aware but are avid fans. “There’s usually a line,” said Rich, talking about the opening of the shop in the morning. Even though the shop doesn’t divert a significant amount of waste from the landfill, it does extend the life of perfectly usable products and falls right in line with one of the mission statements of the WIWMD as stated on their website, “Recognize waste as a resource through reuse, reduction, recycling, and the production of fuels and
amazing, the thrift store only scratches the surface of the work that Rich, West and others are doing to minimize the environmental impact of the landfill and reclaim as much of the waste as possible.
energy, when financially viable.”
The thrift store, is “a lot of work,” said Emily Dehermida, who works at the shop, “but it’s definitely worth it.” “It’s amazing,” echoed Khadija Bird, another store employee “Never a dull moment.” As amazing as it is, and it is
From the thrift shop to the massive composting and mulch of the green waste operations to the Material Recovery and Transfer Facility which processes many of the recyclables from around the region, there’s much more going on at the Wasatch Integrated Waste Management District than just garbage, but those may be a story for another day. More information on these, and other projects being undertaken by the WIWMD can be found at www.wasatchintegrated.org. l
From China hutches to living room sets, to working appliances and more, there is a little bit of everything at the landfill thrift store. Photos by Braden Nelsen
Franklin the cat, “the star of the show” at the thrift shop.
The building housing the thrift store sits outside the gate and scales, making
What is the fastest animal?
Add
The Slowest Animal
Replace the missing words in this article.
GOLD RECORDS RULER EVENTS WORLD Jesse Owens: Olympic Speed and Achievement in 1936
HISTORY
Running at top speeds of about 20 mph, human beings are one of the slower-moving
What about humans? What’s a Tiger Beetle?
Tiger
The cheetah is the fastest land animal. Cheetah paws are more like a dog’s than a cat’s.
They have shorter, blunter claws that do not retract like those of other cats. The pads on the bottom of their feet are ridged, rather than rounded.
Their special feet help cheetahs get a good grip on the ground and push off firmly for the next bound.
No wonder cheetahs can run so fast!
But cheetahs can only run at top speed for a short distance.
Find each tiger beetle’s twin. Which spots are cheetah spots?
circle the cheetah spots.
Find the words by looking up, down, backwards, forwards, sideways and diagonally.
Fast, Faster, Fastest
Find three newspaper pictures and/or words that show things that move. Put them in order and lable them FAST, FASTER, and FASTEST. Do the same with other adjectives such as happy, sloppy, and funny
Standards Link: Use main idea and supporting details in writing.
Jesse Owens is widely regarded as one of the greatest athletes in sports ______________. He is remembered for several reasons.
Owens won four ______ medals and set two Olympic ____________ at the 1936 Olympics in Berlin, Germany.
This was an important athletic achievement, and a significant social achievement. In 1936, Adolph Hitler was the _________ of Germany. Hitler hoped to show the _________ that Aryans, or northern Europeans, were the best at everything.
a paragraph with 3 facts and
Link: Recognize the difference between fact and opinion.
When Jesse Owens, a Black American, dominated the Olympic track-and-field _______, he showed the world that people of all races are capable of excellence.
Five cozy fall activities to celebrate the season in Davis County
Autumn is spectacular in Utah. As leaves begin to turn, Davis County transforms into a colorful playground. Whether you’re enjoying an evening in the canyons, attending local harvest festivals or feasting on delicious fall fare, these five experiences will help create long-lasting memories for the season.
Scarecrow Walk at the USU Botanical Center, 80 E. 725 South, Kaysville
Bring in the autumn season with an easy stroll through the Scarecrow Walk at the USU Botanical Center. This annual event brings the community together to celebrate the harvest season. Visitors walk through beautiful gardens to view the array of scarecrows crafted by individuals, schools and organizations. Each scarecrow is unique with themes ranging from traditional to humorous.
Vibrant autumn colors in the Varga Arboretum are on full display this time of year and the peaceful surroundings capture the coziness of fall. The walk is about ¾ of a mile, along dirt and paved paths that are wheelchair and stroller accessible. The Scarecrow Walk runs Sept. 28 to Oct. 6, from dawn to dusk, and admission is free. Visit the calendar at extension.usu.edu for more info.
Cross E Ranch Fall Festival, 3500 N. 2200 West, Salt Lake City
The Cross E Ranch Fall Festival is a tradition that embraces the spirit of the season in the heart of Salt Lake City. Set on a picturesque, working ranch, the festival offers an array of activities for all ages. Visitors can explore the sprawling corn maze, pick the perfect pumpkin or take a scenic hayride. From the petting zoo to the delicious farm-fresh treats, the Cross E Ranch Fall Festival is a celebration of all things autumn, offering an authentic taste of rural life.
Visitor favorites include the pig races, mega slides and pony rides. The festival runs Sept. 22-Oct. 30 (closed Sundays). Tickets must be purchased online at crosseranch.com.
Pack Farms Pumpkin Patch, 1700 W. Glovers Lane, Farmington
Pack Farms is a must for fall activities, offering a perfect blend of family-friendly fun and seasonal traditions. Visitors can explore the sprawling patch to find the perfect pumpkins or get lost in the hay maze, a favorite challenge for kids and adults. The giant slide and pumpkin tetherball are popular attractions along with a variety of fall-themed games.
The Pack Farms pumpkin patch opens Sept. 28 and runs Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays have extended hours (closing at 11 p.m.) and the farm is closed on Sundays. Admission is $5 per person and free for kids 3 and under. Visit packfarms.com for additional information.
Hike, drive or picnic in Farmington Canyon
In autumn, breathtaking fall colors are on full display in Davis County. Take a drive up
By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com
Farmington Canyon to enjoy leaves at their peak. Find an overlook to stop and take in the views of the valley, and maybe pack a picnic lunch to enjoy the fall foliage.
If hiking is your thing, a stroll along the Farmington Creek Trail will take you through beautiful trees, several stunning lookout areas and a gorgeous waterfall. Walking the Grotto in Hornet Canyon is a must for fall, with its waterfalls and weeping wall. The Robert N. Hasenyager Great Salt Lake Nature Trail in Farmington is another family-friendly walk that takes visitors past wetland areas and offers bird-watching opportunities.
A Night on Antelope Island
The Cottages at Bridger Bay on Antelope Island provide a cozy fall getaway. Each cottage sleeps five or six people and includes a full-size refrigerator, a bathroom with a shower, a shade pavilion and a fire pit. Pets are also welcome. If camping in a tent is more your thing, several campgrounds on the island are available, with a range of amenities.
Enjoy the island scenery with a hike or bike ride while watching the bison, deer, bighorn sheep, antelope and thousands of birds. Be sure to enjoy the night sky as Antelope Island has a Dark Sky designation. For more information, visit stateparks.utah.gov/parks/antelope-island. l
Pumpkin patches, mountain hikes and fall festivals are just a few ways to enjoy the autumn season in Utah. Stock photo
Monday
My Brilliant Friend: Story of the Lost Child
HBO 7 p.m.
This Season 4 premiere picks up where last season left off, in 1980s Italy. Elena (Alba Rohrwacher) and Lila (Irene Maiorino) continue to struggle with the meaning of life and just what purpose the roguish Nino (Fabrizio Gifuni) serves in their lives.
The Wall
(5) KSL 9 p.m.
Recently exonerated for a wrongful conviction, community hero Richard now runs a non-profit to help those returning home from incarceration. Alongside his wife, Latoya, this Texas native is now ready to face the wall in hopes of winning big.
Tuesday
Straight Outta Compton
HBO 6 p.m.
In 1988, a groundbreaking new group revolutionizes music and pop culture, changing and influencing hip-hop forever. N.W.A’s first studio album, “Straight Outta Compton,” stirs controversy with its brutally honest depiction of life in Southern Los Angeles. With guidance from veteran manager Jerry Heller, band members Ice Cube (O’Shea Jackson Jr.), Dr. Dre (Corey Hawkins), Eazy-E, DJ Yella and MC Ren navigate their way through the industry, acquiring fame, fortune and a place in history.
In what might be the seminal moment in U.S. political history, Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic candidate, takes on former Republican president Donald Trump in a debate touching on the economy, the border, national security, ageism and more.
Wednesday
MasterChef
(13) KSTU 7 p.m.
It’s time for the top six chefs to prove themselves, as they take over Ramsay’s Rooftop (an exclusive pop-up restaurant open for one night). Afterwards, the final five face two challenges involving a mystery box and restaurant quality dishes.
Court Cam
A&E 7 p.m.
This brand-new episode sees a man attempting to escape the courthouse after his bond is raised to $20,000, a
defendant about to be sentenced for drunk driving show up to court drunk and a man checking in for a virtual plea hearing from an airplane.
Thursday
Big Brother (2) KUTV 7 p.m.
Season 26 continues tonight with a brand-new episode. Following a surprising live vote, one houseguest is evicted and leaves following an exit interview. Meanwhile, the remaining houseguests are made to compete for power in the next head of the household.
Lucky 13 (4) KTVX 8 p.m.
Two new contestants are selected to answer 13 true-or-false questions in the latest episode of this all-new game show. If these contestants can successfully predict how many of their answers are correct, they have a chance at winning $1 million.
Friday
Jaws
AMC 5 p.m.
We’re going to need a bigger boat, as 3 “Jaws” movies air back-to-back, starting with the original, 1975 film starring Roy Scheider as a New England police chief and Robert Shaw and Richard Dreyfuss as the pair who help him hunt down a massive shark.
20/20
(4) KTVX 8 p.m.
Hosts David Muir and Deborah Roberts are staples of this investigative series, which delves into everything from true crime to celebrity scandals. With correspondents Juju Chang, John Quinones and Diane Sawyer, they relay the U.S.’s biggest stories.
Saturday
College Football
(2) KUTV (5) KSL
The very first UCLA Big Ten home game will find them hosting the Indiana Hoosiers and their new head coach, Curt Cignetti, at Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena,
Monday
Calif., in what will be the first-ever meeting of the two programs. UCLA finished last year 8-5.
Civil War
HBO 6 p.m.
In a dystopian future, the United States faces a seceding movement that engulfs the country in civil war.
Journalists Lee (Kirsten Dunst) and Joel (Wagner Moura) race to Washington, D.C., to interview the authoritarian president (Nick Offerman).
The Face I Can’t Forget
LIFE 6 p.m.
After waking from a car accident with total amnesia, Mia is taken home to be cared for by her loving husband and daughter. But as she recuperates, Mia has flashbacks of a second daughter— one who was in the car with her the night of the accident. But no one else believes this daughter exists.
Sunday
2024 Solheim Cup
(5) KSL 10 a.m.
Thanks to pandemic delays, fans get back-to-back Solheim Cups instead of the usual biennial affair. Today, the best women golfers from Europe take on the best from the United States in final day action from Robert Trent Jones Golf Club in Gainesville, Va.
60 Minutes
(2) KUTV 6 p.m.
Every hour has 60 minutes, but they’re not always this informative. Returning for the premiere of its 56th season, this weekly newsmagazine covers the latest on culture, politics and what’s in the news, offering a detailed look behind major headlines.
If you give a Schitt’s about this year’s Emmy nominees grabbing their share of gold statues, fatherson combo Eugene and Dan Levy host the awards show that honors television’s best from actors and actresses to outstanding dramas and comedies.
Celebrity Profile
By Jay Bobbin TV Media
Ashley
Williams has done many cable movie roles, but no other has likely been as personal for her as her latest one.
The Hallmark Channel regular returns in the new film “Falling Together,” which makes its premiere on the network Saturday, Sept. 21 — appropriately timed for World Alzheimer’s Day.
The late mother of Williams and her fellow actress sister, Kimberly WilliamsPaisley (“Father of the Bride,” 1991), had Alzheimer’s disease, and in the movie, Ashley’s newly relocated character, Natalie, becomes involved in a Walk to End Alzheimer’s in an effort to get a sense of community after failing to connect with her new neighbors. Paul Campbell (“Three Wise Men and a Baby,” 2022) plays superintendent Mark Wallace, Natalie’s potential love interest.
While servicing Hallmark Channel’s seasonal Fall Into Love franchise, “Falling Together” also meets the channel’s intent to expand its subject matter. “There are moments that are incredibly emotional,” Ashley Williams confirms, “but it’s really not a depressing movie. I look at it as a rom-com. My background is in drama, but I’ve learned so much from working in comedy over the years, and my favorite thing is blending those genres together.”
(13) KSTU 8 p.m.
The 1% Club
The first season of “The 1% Club” comes to a close Monday, Sept. 9, on Fox. The odds are always against contestants in this entertaining game show that starts with 100 contestants and quickly whittles its way down to the one person who uses their brain in such a unique way that they can beat 99% of the population.
Also an executive producer of “Falling Together” along with her husband, Neal Dodson (“Margin Call,” 2011), the lively Williams has been active in Alzheimer’srelated walks and (with her family) an annual Dance Party to End Alz, set this year for Avalon Hollywood in Los Angeles on Oct. 22. A pivotal scene in “Falling Together” features photos of Williams’ mother, Linda, and the late parents of two of her close friends and fellow Hallmark Channel staples: Nikki DeLoach’s (“Curious Caterer: Foiled Plans,” 2024) father, who had dementia, and Andrew Walker’s (“For Love & Honey,” 2024) mother, who had Alzheimer’s.
Budgeting should be considered an art form. It’s part theater (acting like you can afford groceries), part digital interpretation (online shopping for best prices), part graffiti (throwing mustard at the wall when you receive a surprise doctor’s bill) and all illusion (where did the money go?).
My paycheck stretches like it’s on a taffy-pulling machine, folding over and over itself, almost to the point of transparency. When did the basic costs of living become a luxury?
While grocery shopping, my husband can’t stop comparing prices from 60 years ago. “When I was a young boy,” he said. “I could buy a loaf of bread for a nickel.”
“Were you Oliver Twist?” I asked. He ignored me and walked down the dairy aisle, ranting about the cost of eggs.
At the check stand, several items rang up for more than what was labeled on the shelf. I asked the unenthused cashier, “Did you raise prices while I was in line?”
He shrugged and continued packaging my groceries, smashing bananas, eggs and bread with my magnum of wine. Just kidding. You can’t buy wine at grocery stores in Utah.
Driving to work becomes a nail-biting thriller as I gauge how much gas is left and if it will last until the end of the month. I was filling up my car the other day and the
Peri Kinder Life and Laughter
Show me the money
gas pump showed the person before me had purchased $5 worth of gas. I hope that 1.6 gallons is enough to get him to the bank he needs to rob.
Even my chai tea latte from Starbucks has incrementally increased from $4 to nearly $6. That’s bonkers. I don’t mind paying a bit more so employees make a livable wage, but last year, Starbucks’ net revenue was $30 billion.
Then I learned the new Starbucks CEO was given a $75 million stock award, a $1.6 million salary and a $10 million signing bonus. The only signing bonus I ever received was when I got a free pen for starting a savings account when I was 8.
Corporate profits have hit all-time highs. And those rising prices are never going to drop because then how can the Starbucks CEO afford $1,500 sneakers for his Pomeranian without squeezing the life out of consumers?
My husband said, “Then don’t go to
Starbucks.”
“Shut up,” I replied. Housing costs are outrageous. Going to dinner and a movie requires a home equity line of credit. Tax increases nickel-and-dime us to death. Did you know Utah is one of only a few states that tax social security benefits? Thanks, Utah Legislators! It’s not like I want to purchase Prada paper clips or Balenciaga bookmarks. I don’t need a Rolls-Royce or a personal library, complete with a rolling ladder and a fireplace. (Okay. I actually need that). I just want to afford a night out, maybe a weekend getaway or an annual massage without selling blood plasma.
My grandparents grew up during the Depression. Decades later, they still saved drawers full of tin foil and rubber bands in case we ever needed a defense against mind control or had to make emergency bouncy balls. Maybe I can learn from their frugal behaviors.
So, we tighten our belts, pinch pennies, clip coupons and say, “We’re right on budget this month.” The moment those words leave our lips, the garbage disposal explodes, the fence blows over or the basement floods. Budgeting might not be an art form, but it’s definitely a comedy.
Email: iospirals@yahoo.com ioironrails.com
Dr. Jared R. Heaton Board Certified Dermatologist
Jared Heaton is an attentive and thorough dermatologist & MOHs surgeon, serving his patients in Bountiful, Centerville, North Salt Lake, Woods Cross, Farmington, Kaysville and West Bountiful.
Dr. Heaton is board-certified in dermatology and is currently a member of the American Society of MOHs Surgeons.
Dr. Heaton prides himself in serving all patient populations and treating all areas of dermatology from children through retirement age. Dr. Heaton performs skin cancer diagnosis and treatment, MOHS surgery, mole exam and removal, acne, warts, cyst removal, spider vein treatment, CO2 laser resurfacing, microneedling and many other skin and cosmetic related procedures.
Dr. Heaton received his undergraduate degree in International Relations with a minor in Asian Studies from Brigham Young University (BYU). He earned his medical degree from Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine (AZCOM) in Glendale, AZ. And completed both his internship and medical residency in Tampa, Florida.
In his spare time, Dr. Heaton enjoys snowboarding, mountain biking, vacations to Bear Lake, movies, grilling and spending time with his wife and three children at home in Bountiful.
Dr. Marc Mitton Board Certified Dermatologist
Marc Mitton is a Utah native and cherishes the opportunity to serve the people of this beautiful state. His passion for dermatology began after receiving his own skin cancer diagnosis as a medical student. He believes that listening and being thorough are the keys to successfully practicing medicine. He specializes in skin cancer detection and removal, rashes, acne, warts and molluscum, as well as several other skin conditions.
Dr. Mitton has specific interests in complex dermatological conditions and dermoscopy (the use of a light-based tool for classifying skin lesions and certain rashes). He prioritizes staying up to date on recent research, best medical practices and surgical techniques, and enjoys applying them into his practice.
Dr. Mitton received his undergraduate degree in biology at the University of Utah and graduated with his medical degree from Rocky Vista University in Parker, CO. He completed his intern year of residency at LewisGale Hospital Montgomery in Blacksburg, VA and his dermatology residency at Lehigh Valley Health Network in Allentown, PA. His residency provided many opportunities for specialized training including treating potentially life-threatening skin conditions at one of the state’s burn units, training with a nationally-renowned pediatric dermatologist, and countless exposures to rare and difficult-to-treat cases at conferences on a nearweekly basis through Lehigh Valley and the University of Pennsylvania.
In his free time, Dr. Mitton enjoys spending time with his wife and two kids, being outdoors, biking, board games, and especially making weekend breakfasts with specialty pancakes.
