Clearfield Connection May - June 2023

CONNECTIONPUBLISHING

Clearfield Connection is published bi-monthly by Connection Publishing© www.clearfieldmagazine.com ryan@connectionpub.com | (801) 624-9652

PUBLISHER

Ryan Spelts

PUBLICATION DESIGN

Robert Dodd

WRITERS

Mayor Mark Shepherd

Council member Vern Phipps

Jayden Martin

Shaundra Rushton

Viviana Felix

Cindy Jones

Abraham Tinklepaugh

Ann Park

Erin Shepard

AD DESIGN

Robert Dodd

Crystal Rappleye

Hyrum Rappleye

EDITORS

Nathaniel Loomis

Savanna Clark

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We love hearing from you!

@clearfield.connection

Connection Publishing www.connectionpub.com

If you'd like to advertise in our publications that reach over 11,000 homes in Clearfield, please contact Danielle at 801-395-4640 or danielle@connectionpub.com, for ad rates and to receive a media kit.

Disclaimer: The paid advertisements contained within the Clearfield Connection magazine are not endorsed or recommended by Connection Publishing or Clearfield City. Therefore, neither party may be held liable for the business practices of these companies. The City is also not responsible for any content in the magazines except for that which they directly submit for print.

Pride in Ownership

If you look at homes listed on the MLS, there is a phrase you will often see listed in the home’s description: “Pride in Ownership.” It means that anyone driving by the house can tell the people that live there take great pride in the fact that they have a house and do their best to take care of it. I don’t think you have to own the home to show that pride. Whether you own a home or are renting one from someone else, it is still your residence, and taking pride in the way it looks encourages others to do the same. It also quickly raises the value and desirability of a neighborhood.

As the weather warms up, now is a great time to do small, simple acts that increase Clearfield’s livability and image. Raking up leftover leaves and debris from the fall, cleaning out gutters, trimming trees, and so forth all help show city pride. If your yard already looks great, maybe gather some friends together and help out others on your street. Cleaning up your property, picking up trash in your neighborhood park, or participating in our Adopt-a-Trail program are all great ways to beautify our city.

Taking pride in your property increases Clearfield’s livability across the city. Clearfield City has a Yard of the Week and Yard of the Year award that the Parks and Recreation Commission gives to homeowners that have taken pride in their landscaping. Sometimes it can seem a daunting task but addressing it one piece at a time will pay dividends.

The city has several ordinances that address the way a property looks, like keeping grass and/or weeds trimmed to 6 inches and keeping dangerous and/ or unnecessary junk out of your yard. These ordinances are meant to be the minimum standards so feel free to go above and beyond! Adhering to these regulations will keep Clearfield neighborhoods looking attractive. To help you with your Spring cleanup, we have included a voucher for a free trip to the Davis County Landfill in this magazine. If your yard is going to take more than one trip, don’t hesitate to reach out to city staff for a second voucher.

To support property owners in landscaping efforts, the city joined the Flip Your Strip program with Weber Basin Water Conservancy District. Flipping your strip with water-wise landscaping is a great way to save water while beautifying. Those who participate in this program can receive water rebates from Weber Basin. The Adopt-a-Trail program is a volunteer program that provides opportunities to monitor, maintain, and enhance sections of our trails. Program activities include picking up litter, clearing debris, and serving as an extra set of eyes for downed trees, vandalism, trail hazards, and more. This would be great for families, businesses, or groups looking to serve the community in small ways!

May is a great time to beautify your home and do some spring cleaning. Freshening up your property, picking up trash in our parks, or participating in our Adopt-a-Trail program are all great ways to beautify the city. If we all do our part, we can have the most attractive city in the county.

Mayor Mark Shepherd

Taking pride in your property increases Clearfield’s livability across the city.

The Connection Publishing Team

Ryan Spelts Publisher

Melissa Spelts

Photographer/Writer

Robert Dodd Senior Magazine Designer

Cindy Jones

Editor/Designer

Hyrum Rappleye Graphic Design

Crystal Rappleye Graphic Design

Sarah Bodiker Graphic Design

Ann Park

Sales & Operations Mgr.

Kendal Rae Jensen

Sales/Journalist

Diane Liberator Sales

Danielle Arana Sales

Hailey Minton Writer

Sabrina Lee Writer

Abraham Tinklepaugh

Writer/Designer

Amanda Koldewyn Writer

Kim Crook

Digital Media Mgr.

Dawn Paul Photographer

Savanna Clark

Proofreader

Nathaniel Loomis Proofreader

City of Clearfield

The city's website has information on every department in the city and our social media channels will keep you updated!

@clearfieldcity

www.clearfield.city

Council Corner

Key Community Contacts

MAYOR

Mark Shepherd: 801-540-0348 mark.shepherd@clearfieldcity.org

COUNCIL MEMBERS

Kent Bush: 801-940-4502 kent.bush@clearfieldcity.org

Nike Peterson: 801-332-0323 nike.peterson@clearfieldcity.org

Vern Phipps: 801-628-4673 vern.phipps@clearfieldcity.org

Tim Roper: 801-682-6296 tim.roper@clearfieldcity.org

Karece Thompson: 385-383-5600 karece.thompson@clearfieldcity.org

CLEARFIELD SERVICES

Municipal Center & Utiities: 801-525-2701

Utility Bill, Garbage/Recycling, Facility Rental, Recreation, Cemetery, Police Records, Fingerprinting, Business License, Building Inspection/Permitting, Planning, Dumpster Rental, Emergency Home Repair Grants, Home Rehab Grants, Code Compliance/ Enforcement, New Resident Information.

Emergency: 911

Police Dispatch: 801-525-2806

Non-Emergency Line, After Hours Water/Sewer Reporting Justice Court: 801-525-2760

Victim Advocates: 801-525-2759

Aquatic & Fitness Center: 801-525-2641

Water/Sewer Leaks: 801-525-4419 (8 a.m.-4 p.m. M-F)

One of the topics that comes up when I ask people why they like to live in Clearfield is the great parks. Where else can you find tournamentclass pickleball courts and baseball diamonds, a zip line, a dog park, two ponds stocked with catchable fish, disc golf, and open space just to have fun?

We also have two official trails which cross our City, the Canal Trail, and the Rail Trail. Both provide convenient and pleasant places where you can walk, skate, or bike all while enjoying nature. And you can (I speak from experience!) go all the way to Salt Lake (and beyond) on the Rail Trail.

Our parks have significantly benefited from carefully using PARAT tax funds, which come from sales taxes the City collects. We have been able to install the pickleball courts, provide 5 new playgrounds, build up Hamblin Park from just an open space, and more. The PARAT tax has been a huge benefit to the City!

Please take a minute and, if you haven’t, find a park close to you and take in the beautiful surroundings and enjoy nature in a new way.

Council Member Vern Phipps

Be a part of meetings! You can participate in council meetings by attending in person or virtually via Facebook Live. Visit www.clearfield.city for meeting schedules and agendas.

Clearfield City Community Garden

Clearfield City's Community Garden is an excellent place for families and groups to come together and enjoy the spring weather while planting a wide variety of things. Community gardens offer a great way to connect with your community, meet new people, and bond with your family and friends.

The hands-on experience offers an opportunity to learn about gardening, selfsufficiency, and nutrition while enjoying the fresh air and sunshine. Due to the snow, Clearfield City's Community Garden has gotten off to a late start this year. But that doesn't mean it's too late to get involved! There's still plenty of time to plant and grow a beautiful garden with the help of Clearfield City Parks Department's knowledgeable and friendly staff. A small garden plot (14'6" x 11') is $15 for residents, while a large garden plot (29' x 11') is $25 for residents. This affordable pricing makes it easy for anyone to get involved in the community garden and enjoy the benefits of growing their own fresh produce. The website has the application and more information about the rules and regulations of the garden. If you want to reserve a plot at Clearfield City's Community Garden, you can call 801-525-2782 or email Kimberly.Martin@clearfieldcity. org to get started. Once you've secured a plot, it's your responsibility to maintain it, including keeping it

clean and watering your plants.

The Parks Department oversees the garden to ensure that everyone is following the rules and regulations and that the garden is a safe and enjoyable place for all to be. Tara, a member of the Clearfield City Parks Department, is responsible for overseeing the community space. She is a wonderful resource for anyone who has questions about gardening or needs help getting started. Whether you're a first-time gardener or an experienced pro, Tara is always happy to offer advice and support to ensure that everyone has a positive experience in the garden.

Reserve

This Clearfield spring clean-up voucher included in this magazine is a available for residents to take small loads to the dump at no cost. Call City Hall if you have questions: 801-525-2701.

JULY 4TH JULY 4TH eyes to the future eyes to the future hometown hometown parade parade pool bash pool bash freedom run freedom run

Charlie the Clearfield Llama comes with a message... "We have a new way to pay!" Start paying your utility bill online with our new system, Xpress Bill Pay. It gives you more ways to pay, flexible payment dates, automatic billing, and provides your billing history.

Get started and create your account by calling us at 801-525-2701, scanning the QR Code below, or visiting our website at www.clearfield.city/payment-resident

WE ARE HIRING

Recreation & Aquatics

Help Wanted

Clearfield City is currently hiring Lifeguards and Recreation Staff for the upcoming season. We are looking for supervisors, recreation support, aquatic safety support, and more!

¶ Starting pay is $10-20 hourly.

¶ Clearfield City offers discounted passes to the Aquatic and Fitness Center and programs for all staff.

¶ Applicants must be 15 years of age or older and be able to fulfill the related duties.

¶ We host Lifeguard Classes, CPR Training, and Red Cross Water Safety Courses to certify new lifeguards.

FUN & EXCITEMENT FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY

PROGRAMS & EVENTS

AQUATIC & FITNESS CENTER PARKS & RECREATION

Pool Bash: Join us for our annual 4th of July pool party on July 3rd. Register in advance online.

Summer Family Fun Pass: Enjoy all the perks of a family membership without the annual commitment. Good for two adults and four dependents. Active Memorial Day through Labor Day. $295 or $245 for Clearfield City residents.

Drowning Prevention: May is National Water Safety and Drowning Prevention month. Learn more about what the Aquatic and Fitness Center is doing to keep your kids safe in our pools online @clearfieldaquaandfit.

Swim Lessons: Swim lessons happen monthly; registration opens at the beginning of each month. Group and private lessons are available. Members and residents receive priority registration, open one day in advance.

Fun Run: Start the morning of July 4th off right with a 5k run or 1 mile walk. Register in advance online.

Tennis Lessons: Learn to play tennis. Registration is available online.

Camps: Basketball and volleyball camps are open for registration.

Pickleball: Leagues and lessons are available for youth and adults, and the Flip Flop tournament is open for registrations.

Community Garden: Apply for a plot at the Clearfield Community Gardens online. Applications or questions should be directed to kimberly.martin@clearfieldcity.org.

COMMUNITY ARTS

The Little Mermaid Jr.: Performances will be on June 16, 17, 19, 22, 23, & 24. Tickets may be purchased in advance online.

Paint Nites: Join us for the Mother’s Day Paint Nite on May 10. A Horizon and Silhouette Paint Nite is also available on May 25.

Kids Krafts Camp: Two sessions will be available June 26-29 and July 10-13.

New Camps and Classes: There are always new things coming to our arts center. Stay in the loop by following @ clearfieldcommunityarts on social media.

4th of July

BY JAYDEN MARTIN

You can be a part of our 4th of July celebration by volunteering, entering a float in the Hometown Parade, or being a food vendor at the Freedom Festival.

Over 20,000 people come to celebrate in our city, so it is a great opportunity to get in front of local customers. Contact information to get started is below. Whether you’re walking the parade route with us or selling food at our Freedom Festival, we hope to see you be a part of our events!

Hometown Parade: 801-540-0910 • ClearfieldParade@gmail.com

Freedom Festival: 801-525-2794 • Jackie.Wardle@clearfieldcity.org

Autism Awareness Program

BY SHAUNDRA RUSHTON

April was Autism Awareness Month. To celebrate, the Clearfield City Police Department wore Autism badges and put puzzle decals on their cars.

Our police department is proud of the efforts they’ve made to be autism friendly. As part of these efforts, the department rolled out their Autism Awareness Enrollment program last year. This program helps law enforcement, EMS, Fire, and other emergency responders communicate and interact with individuals with autism.

Individuals can enroll themselves or someone they know in this program by voluntarily filling out the enrollment form found on the Police Department page of the city website. Filling out the form provides critical information for emergency personnel responding to a scene or contacting an individual with autism. Visit www.clearfield.city/police-department/ to enroll today!

CLEARFIELD HIGH SCHOOL TEEN CENTER

BY JAYDEN MARTIN

A shocking 1,400 students in Davis County experience homelessness, 300 of whom are high schoolers. The Clearfield High School Teen Center provides students in need with a safe place to shower, do laundry, access hygiene, and clothing items, study, and refuel. They offer these services to teens not only experiencing homelessness but also to those that have less-than-ideal home situations.

Clearfield City donated $150,000 to help open the center in 2021. Since opening, it has helped an average of 30 students each day. That's 5,400 visits per year!

The Teen Center accepts donations of new items they’ll distribute to teens in need. Ideas for needed items include:

CLOTHING • HYGIENE ITEMS • WASHCLOTHS

FOOD GIFT CARDS • SCHOOL MATERIALS

To learn more or arrange a donation drop-off, call the Foundation office at 801-402-4483.

SCHOOLS

All Elementary, Jr. High and High Schools

May 26: Last day of school

CLEARFIELD HIGH

May 1: Baseball Farmington 3:30 p.m.

May 2: Boys Tennis 3 p.m.

Baseball 3:30 p.m.

Softball Davis 3:30 p.m.

Boys Lacrosse 5 p.m.

Girls Lacrosse Farmington 5 p.m.

Boys Volleyball 7 p.m.

May 3: Baseball Fremont 3:30 p.m.

Boys Soccer Davis 3:30 p.m

May 3-6, 8-9: Productions

Musical – Mama Mia 7 p.m.

May 4: Boys Tennis Layton 3 p.m.

Softball 3:30 p.m.

Boys Lacrosse Weber 5 p.m.

Girls Lacrosse 5 p.m.

May 5: Track Invite Mtn. Ridge 3 p.m.

Baseball 3:30 p.m.

Boys Soccer 3:30 p.m.

May 8-9: State Girls Golf

May 8: Baseball 3:30 p.m.

Softball Bonneville 3:30 p.m.

May 9: Baseball Weber 3:30 p.m.

Boys Lacrosse Fremont 5 p.m.

Girls Lacrosse 5 p.m.

Dance Company Concert 7 p.m.

May 10-11: Track Region Champ. Davis

May 10: Baseball 3:30 p.m.

Jazz/Percussion Concert 7 p.m.

May 11-13: State Choir Festival

MAY/JUNE EVENTS

May 16: Baseball State

Choir Concert 7 p.m.

May 17: Band Concert 7 p.m.

May 18, 20: Track State Champ. BYU

May 18: Orchestra Concert 7 p.m.

May 19: Senior Cotillion

May 26: Graduation

Senior’s All-Night Party 10 p.m.

NORTH DAVIS JUNIOR HIGH

May 15: Choir Concert 7 p.m.

May 18, 19: Theatre 2 Play

May 18: Spring Orchestra Concert 7 p.m.

May 23: Band Concert 7 p.m.

FUN THINGS TO DO

Clearfield Community Concert Band

Rehearsals Tuesdays at Community

Art Center 7 - 8:30 p.m. Jazz band every other Thursday. More info: Email clearfieldcommunityband@gmail.com

Clearfield Community Choir Rehearsals Wednesdays at Community Art Center 7:15 p.m., ages 15 & up Info: 801 525-2779

May 20: South Weber Model Railroad Club 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Canyon Meadows Park, South Weber. Hitch a ride on a 1 ½” scale model train! FREE

May 20: OAS Star Party Antelope

Island State Park 6 p.m. Join Ogden Astronomical Society for an evening of sun and star gazing. FREE park entry fees apply.

DAVIS COUNTY LIBRARY – Clearfield Branch

1 N Main St, Clearfield, UT • (801) 451-1840

WEEKLY ACTIVITIES

Mondays: Story Time 1:30 p.m.

Tuesdays: Play and Learn 10:30 a.m.

STEAM activities 3:30 p.m. (No STEAM activities in June)

Wednesdays: Virtual

Story Time 10:30 a.m.

Thursdays: Story Time 10:30 a.m.

ACTIVITIES

May 10: Author Palooza. 3 YA authors for a panel and book signing. Teens/Adult. 6 p.m.

May 11, June 15: Tween Book Club 4-6 grade 4 p.m.

May 13, June 10: Teen Book Club 11 a.m.

May 18: Speaker–NASA Astronaut Duane “Digger” Carey All ages 6:30 p.m.

May 31 - June 3: Bountiful Chalk

Art Festival Historic Main Street. Art, chalk drawings, food trucks. FREE

June 2: Free Friday Film Series

Captain Marvel (PG-13)

Kenley Amphitheater 7 p.m.

June 4: Free Sunday Concert Kenley

Amphitheater Pompe n’ Honey 7 p.m.

June 11: Free Sunday Concert Series

Kenley Amphitheater Beck Brothers 7 p.m.

June 16, 17, 19, 22, 23, 24:

The Little Mermaid Jr. Performances Community Art Center. Advance tickets available at clearfield.city

June 17th: Police Dept. Car Show

Fisher Park, Clearfield 10 a.m. -2 p.m.

June 18: Free Sunday Concert

Series The Ginger Bess Band –Favorites from the golden age of jazz. Kenley Amphitheater 7 p.m.

June 23: Free Friday Film Series

The Music Man

Kenley Amphitheater 7 p.m.

June 24: OAS Star Party Antelope

Island State Park 6 p.m. Join the Ogden Astronomical Society for an evening of sun and star gazing. Free event, park entry fees apply.

June 25: Free Sunday Concert Series

Kenley Amphitheater 7 p.m. Cori Conner – Feel-good accoustic music.

June 30: Free Friday Film Series

Marcel the Shell with Shoes On (PG) Kenley Amphitheater 7 p.m.

All library events are FREE

May 24: After Words Book Club Lucky Strikes by Louis Bayard. Teens/Adult 7 p.m.

May 30: Wreck it Journals for Teens 7 p.m.

June 5: Summer Reading Begins

June 7: Family Game Night All ages 7 p.m.

June 28: After Words Book Club

Sun Does Shine by Anthony Ray Hinton. Adults/teens 7 p.m.

Students of the Month

A Bright Future Begins Here

Kaila Norvang

Kaila is a junior at Clearfield High School. She is an excellent student who challenges herself academically with Honors and CE classes. Her favorite class is math because she says her teacher knows how to make math fun. She also plays on the high school basketball team and participates in dance and volleyball. After high school, she would like to open her own café or bakery. Her favorite part of being a Falcon is the inclusivity at Clearfield High as “you always feel welcome and included. It lifts you up.”

Noah Barron

Noah is a senior at Clearfield High School. He has been involved in student government as the spirit officer and played on the football team for the last three years. He is an excellent student who takes Honors and CE classes. US History has been his favorite class, and Noah says the teacher made the material interesting and fun all at the same time. He will be attending Southern Utah University, where he plans to major in Outdoor Recreation and will be serving as an SUU ambassador. Keeping Clearfield High traditions alive has been his favorite part of being a Falcon.

“The best way to predict your future is to create it.”

–Abraham Lincoln

North Davis Communities That Care

BY VIVIANA FELIX

Something we cannot stress enough as a coalition is the importance of a caring and supportive adult in a child’s life. You may think that you do not have the skills or knowledge to be a mentor to a child. The truth is that not much is needed to be someone who listens, shares, and has fun. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Utah is a community mentoring program that matches an adult volunteer mentor to a child or adolescent to reduce problem behaviors and improve academic success, peer and family relationships, and self-confidence. North Davis Communities That Care Coalition supports this communitybased program because of the research behind the program proven to strengthen family connections and reduce low commitment to the school. A mentor is one of the best protections we can offer a child.

One-to-one matches are made based on the shared goals and interests of the child (little) and the adult volunteer (big) with the expectation that a caring and supportive relationship will develop. Each big and little participate in generalized activities related to their shared goals. Bigs meet with their little 3-5 hours per week for a minimum of 12 months. Mentors complete a thorough review process and are interviewed. Additionally, a

case manager is assigned to each match to stay informed of the child’s experiences and to guide and advise the mentor.

Most bigs and littles are matched within their local community. As of right now, there are 17 littles waiting to be matched in Davis County.

Take this as your message to become someone’s mentor today—

2-UPGRADE THE SPACES YOU USE THE MOST

Even small improvements and upgrades to your home can drastically change the way your spaces feel and function. Bathrooms and kitchens are likely where you spend the most time, so prioritizing home upgrades in these areas will have the biggest impact.

Installing new appliances can give your kitchen an upgrade, but if you’re working with a smaller budget, start with the most updated fixture and replace them one at a time. A fresh coat of paint and a set of new rugs is a quick an inexpensive way to freshen up a space, and replacing faucets and towel holders can also kick the aesthetic up a notch in your hightraffic spaces.

3-CURB APPEAL

Landscaping is one of the best ways to improve your home’s exterior. From adding new mulch to garden beds to hiring an arborist to trim overgrown trees, or a landscaping architect to help plan an attractive and functional outdoor space. Some additional exterior improvements that can increase your home’s curb appeal, as well as its overall value is replacing or restoring rooves, rain gutters, and garage doors. Painting the front door, pressure washing walkways, and replacing outdated house numbers are all easy and inexpensive ways to ramp up your home’s aesthetic. Whether you’re adding custom window coverings, replacing a bathroom sink, or installing a new fence, each step you take to improve and upgrade the space where you live makes it feel a little more like home.

BY CINDY JONES

Create a HOME you LOVE

Photos courtesy of Ovation Homes

Whether you are renovating your 1980's rambler or you just bought your first tiny two-bedroom bungalow, being mindful of a few simple concepts will help you create a home you love.

1-LET THE LIGHT IN

Windows are the most important and natural source of light in your home and deserve special attention. Check your windows for drafts and leaks and aim to replace windows that are around 15 years old or older. New double-paned windows will not only lighten and brighten your spaces, but they can also lower utility bills.

Window coverings are a feature that are often overlooked. Replacing curtains or blinds is a simple way to change the aesthetic of a space, and window coverings help to moderate incoming light and heat in one step. There are a variety of options depending on your budget.

On the following pages, you’ll find helpful info from local home and garden experts.

THE ART OF DOWNSIZING

Mention “downsizing” and your mind goes to one of two places: compromise or liberation. The attitude and connected emotions are closely tied to your life experiences. Local Northern Utah homebuilder, Ovation Homes, specializes in creating a personalized and upscaled living for active adults ready to downsize. Here are two reoccurring themes they see:

• Sometimes downsizing occurs due to circumstances that force a move, and sometimes it’s a choice.

• Downsizing isn’t always age-related. It can be driven by the desire for freedom to intentionally live your best life.

Rising home prices and interest rates have created situations where most home buyers are making a square footage compromise. No matter your reasons, moving into small spaces does not need to be a downgrade; good planning and a little creativity will help you adapt your lifestyle without compromising your style and taste. Here are a few ideas from Ovation Homes, that you can incorporate into your small space today.

Kitchens. One of the most inexpensive ways to upscale your kitchen is by adding cabinet pulls to your cabinets and drawers. “At Ovation Homes, cabinet pulls are included in all our kitchens. I love the variety available from modern lines to more classic knobs; you can choose what fits your style best,” says Brynnlee Nash, Ovation’s in-house designer. For additional kitchen storage, consider adding floating shelves

or cabinets under an extended countertop. Extending the countertop is also a great option to create more bar seating for guests.

Bathrooms. With small bathrooms, light is your friend. Use mirrors to reflect light on a wall opposite a window. Also, consider using downlights as an effect to make walls seem like they are receding. Another trick is using large floor tiles so that there are few grout lines to break up the room. Laying tile on the diagonal also visually lengthens the room.

Room for Gathering. One of the biggest challenges can be finding space for the objects you love so that the people you love can gather. Instead of making room for large cabinets, Ovation uses floating shelves and built-in cabinetry aside from a fireplace to fit all their home buyer’s collected treasures. Another option is building window boxes. This creates great storage for blankets and toys while giving a place to sit and read. Creating a cozy seating area can also make a room look bigger! One tip is to add floor outlets. This allows lamps to be placed closer to couches and chairs, creating a cozy space rather than keeping all the furniture around the perimeter.

If you are thinking about downsizing, visit www. Ovationhomesutah.com for downloadable resources. There you can find checklists on how to get started, organizing tips for small spaces, and how to keep your small spaces freshly styled. You will also find plans, pricing, and building lots available for single-level living in Northern Utah. For more information about Ovation Homes, call (801) 823-4893.

NEW TECHNOLOGY RESTORES AGING ROOFS

BY ANN PARK

With last winter’s record snowfall, many local roofs need some extra attention this spring. Roof Maxx is an up-and-coming new company applying a revolutionary product that treats aging shingles, rejuvenating and extending the life of your roof.

As shingles age, they grow weaker, are less flexible, and lose their texture. Toward the end of their life span, they begin to fail, cracking, curling, buckling, and blowing off in bad weather. Wouldn’t it be great if you could slow down or reverse the aging process?

The scientists at Roof Maxx have created a bio-oil formula that penetrates aging shingles, increasing their durability, flexibility, and strength.

Fully replacing a roof is messy and expensive, usually costing $15,000 to $20,000 or more. By using Roof Maxx, you can avoid the hassle and cost of a replacement. When your roof lasts longer, you reduce the amount of waste sent to a landfill. At a savings of about 75% over replacement, a Roof Maxx treatment, if your roof qualifies, is guaranteed to strengthen and extend the life of your roof by five years per treatment. With repeated treatments every five years, you can extend the life of your roof up to 15 years.

How do you know if Roof Maxx is a good fit for you? If your asphalt shingles are between 12 and 25 years old, you might

be a great candidate. We are local and working in your area, and we’d be happy to drop by for a free roof inspection. We climb onto your roof and take pictures so we can show you things that you might not realize are happening up there. We can let you know if your roof could be helped by Roof Maxx. A Roof Maxx treatment can turn back the clock. The treatment protects, rejuvenates, and restores your shingles, giving your aging roof new life.

GET YOUR HVAC SYSTEM READY FOR SPRING

BY ANN PARK

HVAC Systems tend to get the most attention during the roughest times of the year – during a cold snap or when the temperature climbs to unbearable levels. Once it handles the worst, all is well, right? Not necessarily. Spring comes with its own challenges that affect your HVAC system. Spring can be the worst time for anyone with allergies, especially to dust and pollen. Your HVAC system needs to filter the air you breathe while providing you with enough fresh air. If you suffer from allergies, consider adding an air purification system to your home. This will

serve your family year-round, adding protection from the nasty bugs and allergens that make you sick.

As cold weather makes way for the heat of summer, your HVAC system deals with both heating and cooling, sometimes on the same day. Having a heating and cooling system that is efficient will help lower your energy consumption and ensure that your equipment functions well for years to come. If your HVAC system is over 15 years old, you may want to consider a new, more efficient comfort system for your home.

BROUGHT TO YOU

BY WEBER HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

A HOME IMPROVEMENT AND DIY THRIFT STORE

BY ANN PARK

Affordable housing is a difficult thing to find for many people these days. That’s what makes the Weber Habitat for Humanity

ReStore an excellent local resource for people needing a place to live. Wendy Vinhage, the Executive Director, said, “The calls for help keep coming in every day.”

Independently owned Habitat for Humanity ReStores have been helping people fix their homes for nearly fifty years.

“You’ll find everything from tile to plumbing and electrical supplies to cabinets and furniture,” said Executive Director Wendy Vinhage. “It’s a home improvement thrift store with every kind of lighting you can imagine.”

If you need home repairs, be sure to check the Habitat ReStore Facebook page to find out when the next 50% Off Saturday sale is.

Located at 3111 Wall Ave. in Ogden, Utah, the Weber ReStore is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.,

and donations are accepted on the same days from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Vinhage says affordable home ownership is the biggest issue she’s seen in her nonprofit work, and it’s the number one way people can remain stable. She believes everyone should have the opportunity to achieve and build home equity. “That’s what gets me up in the morning.”

Skilled volunteers and those with access to materials are always needed. If you’re an individual or business wanting to donate time or resources, contact Matt at the store or at matthewfarmer@habitatwd.org.

“We would like to give a huge thank you to Wendy Vinhage our past Executive Director who is no longer with the organization. She did an amazing job that we will never forget,” says Matthew Farmer, who has stepped in to take over the role. “We look forward to continuing our work to serve our communities in need.”

The Ogden Habitat ReStore is a home improvement thrift store that sells new and gently used home goods, building materials and more.

Mental Health Tips for Busy

Moms

BY ERIN SHEPARD, LCSW

In most American families, mothers are the primary bearers of the invisible mental load of the family. This invisible load refers to all the planning, organizing, and emotional tracking involved in keeping the family lifestyle operating.

As a mental health therapist and a specialist in perinatal mental health, I have a unique view of the struggle and strength of mothers. I learn from those confronted with the heartache of infertility, pregnancy, and infant loss, chronic mental health dysregulation and difficult partner relationships. I witness women rising to the occasion of motherhood despite their limitations and circumstances. They are the grievers, the givers, the caretakers, and the Uber drivers. They are the comforters, the keepers of time and schedules, the exhausted, and the purposeful. It’s no wonder that many mothers feel the weight of the world as they keep the balance of their families’ needs.

J.D. Salinger, in his short story A Girl I Knew, writes, “She wasn’t doing a thing that I could see except standing there, leaning on the balcony railing, holding the universe together.”

Being the primary bearer of the invisible mental and emotional load in the family comes at a cost. The price is often women’s mental health. Women are nearly twice as likely as men to be diagnosed with an anxiety disorder in their lifetime and three times more likely to suffer from depression.

the contrasting emotions of being numb, disconnected, or burned out, are the symptoms of emotional debt.

Here are a few ways mothers can build, or rebuild, their mental health reserves:

1. Take time to participate

So often a mother can feel like the exhausted backstage crew, working tirelessly. When it comes to the vacation, performances, dinner, or an afternoon at the pool, mothers so often sit on the sidelines, drained from the planning and organizing it took to get there.

Create a balance between what you plan and organize, and what you participate in. Be aware of how your relationship and your role as a caregiver overlap. This will look different for everyone. A caregiver packs lunch (the task), and a mother gives the hug and kisses as they walk out the door (the relationship). The caregiver gets the phone call from school when they are sick, but that initial response is the relationship. Pay attention to the moments that matter most to you. The key here is to you, not to everyone else. There will be aspects of your relationship that will be unique in fulfilling you. Pay attention to those things, be greedy, and get as much of them possible.

2. Complete the stress cycle

This coping method is often overlooked but is crucial in emotional regulation. In addition to the complexity of juggling the invisible load of life and relationships, there is a constant undertow in motherhood of emotional regulation, regardless of the season, whether it’s parenting young children, teenagers, or adult children. Often it can be described as moments of intense stimulation and stress that change momentarily into moments of letdown, boredom, or underwhelm.

Keeping up with this constantly emotionally changing climate is stressful. If we don’t allow our minds and bodies to release the stress when the moment has passed, we stay in a heightened state of being keyed up, wreaking havoc on our adrenal system and mental health. When we can acknowledge the stress has passed and then engage in calming self-talk, self-care behaviors, and/ or mindfulness, we can complete the stress cycle and be ready for the next wave when it comes.

Look for transitional moments to practice preventive stress management. Transitional moments are natural breaks in our day and routine. Morning drop-off is a transition to entering the office—as are mealtimes, naptimes, or the afternoon carpool. Our minds and bodies also let us know when we are having a transitional moment, a yawn, or, more commonly, the urge to check our phone; a few moments of unintentionally scrolling or mindlessly scanning the news. In these moments, pause and acknowledge it as transitional. Stretch, take a deep breath, get a drink, apply lotion or chapstick. A transitional moment is a simple task that refreshes you. The simpler the better.

3. Don’t be afraid to meet your own needs.

If you need permission, consider this an official invitation to have regular check-ins with your body and mind to assess your own needs. Thirsty? Cold? Need to use the bathroom? Feel stiff in your shoulders? So much can be taken care of when it’s a small problem vs. letting it go unmet until it’s a huge impairment. If you need to sit down and eat, allow yourself to. If you need a restful day, make room for it. A restful day might not mean a kid-free day at the spa or a full night’s rest, but it could mean choosing sweats and an afternoon movie at home instead of your regular tasks. Most tasks have a longer shelf life than

stress and anxiety would have us believe, and can be done later in the day or the week vs. immediately. By balancing needs, you also balance mental and physical sustainability. This increases your ability to manage and take on the undesirable or complicated tasks that seem to drag on and overwhelm you, especially when done from a place of depletion. Meeting your own needs might mean asking for support or keeping to yourself, depending on the circumstances. Have a favorite musical playlist saved, have podcasts downloaded and ready, and know what comfy clothes help you feel relaxed. Having a goto list of ways of nurturing yourself helps when you feel exhausted and aren’t sure what to do. Experiment and layer your methods, you may need to combine several of your comfort go-tos to sustain yourself through whatever is going on.

It’s been said “We lose ourselves a little when we become mothers, but that’s OK. Moms are awesome at finding lost things.” And it’s true; love, focus and sacrifice come at a cost. That cost should not be a complete depletion of everything. Children don’t need a perfect mom, they need a good enough mom that allows for mistakes, learning, growth and realization, and the acceptance that she is human. Take care of yourself by taking time to participate in the life you work so hard for. Take time to complete the stress cycle and leave room to meet your own needs.

“As a clinical therapist, being a part of another’s journey of healing and change is something I find a privilege as well as a great responsibility. I typically practice under a cognitivebehavioral umbrella and am complex trauma, and EMDR trained.”

About

Publishing ART CONTEST

WIN $100 CASH PRIZES! Vote For Your Favorite

Connection Publishing’s seventh annual community art competition is now open for entries. We can’t wait to see the artwork that our neighborhood has created! We anticipate this to be a fantastic competition and sincerely hope you’ll join us in honoring our local creatives. Submit your original artwork and ask your family and close friends to cast their votes for you.

PRIZES

Two winners will be announced in a future Connection magazine issue.

POPULAR VOTE

The piece of art receiving the most votes overall will receive a $100 cash prize.

PUBLISHER'S CHOICE

The piece of art most appreciated by our Publisher Ryan Spelts will win a $100 cash prize.

Winners announced in our July issue.

SUBMIT

Visit website to participate in the competition:

www.connectionpub.com/art-contest

ARTWORK MAY BE SUBMITTED MAY 1ST – MAY 31ST, 2023

Submissions and votes must be submitted before midnight on the 31st

This contest will run from May 1-31, 2023. One entry per artist. See website for official contest rules. Your art can be a drawing, painting, digital art, or sculpture. Take a photo and upload it to the website. Then share it via email or social media to have your family vote. People can vote once per day for the duration of the contest.

Photo quality is very important since the photo of your work will be voted on by the community and your peers. All digital files submitted need to be at 300 dpi resolution.

Switch up your Sandwich

Zing! Bam! Wow! We’re blasting into your kitchen with some exciting transformations of an all-time family favorite—the sandwich. So read up, change up, eat up, and become a sandwich superhero!

BBQ Chicken Bacon

Avocado

Sandwich

By Ann Park

Bread of your choice—homemade rolls are ideal

Chicken breast, cooked and shredded

2 Tbsp. BBQ Sauce

Cheddar cheese slices

1-2 slices bacon—warm and crispy Dill pickles

Red onion slices

Mayo—optional

Mustard

Avocado slices

Season chicken breast with salt and garlic powder. Slow-cook chicken in crockpot for 6-7 hours on low, until meat is done and shreds easily. Add BBQ sauce to chicken and mix. Melt cheese on top of the meat. Add mustard and mayo (if desired) to bread. Pile on meat and melted cheese. Top with bacon, avocado slices, pickles and onions.

Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Sliders

By Cindy Jones

*Serves 5

These easy, savory sliders are sure to please even the pickiest crowd. Pair them with fresh veggies and you have a low-effort dinner or game day snack that will have everyone asking for your recipe!

12 count King’s Hawaiian Rolls

4-5 Boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 jar Sweet Baby Ray’s Buffalo Wing Sauce

1 package Ranch Dip Mix

Optional—Monterey Jack or Swiss cheese, cut into small squares

Add chicken, all but about ¼ cup of the buffalo sauce, and ranch mix in slow cooker. Cook on high for 4-5 hours , 6-7 hours if frozen.

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from your slow cooker and shred with forks. Add chicken back into pot, add additional buffalo sauce, stir, and let warm for 10 minutes.

Cut the Hawaiian rolls in half, add sliced cheese if desired, and toast in the oven at 175° for 5-6 minutes or until cheese is melted. Spoon shredded chicken mixture over rolls and add tops. Serve with fresh veggies and Ranch dip.

PHOTOS BY DAWN PAUL & MELISSA SPELTS

DAWN PAUL

DAWN PAUL

Italian Grinder with Slaw

By Ryan Spelts

I was feeding 7 people, so I purchased two Ciabatta bread loaves from Smith’s and sliced them in half. You may need to decrease the quantities if you are only making a few sandwiches. This made two full loaves worth of sandwich making 8 large servings.

1 lb. salami

1 lb. pepperoni

1.5 lb. smoked turkey

1 lb. Munster cheese

1 lb. Provolone cheese

1 head iceberg lettuce

2 tomatoes

1 red onion

½ jar banana peppers

¼ cup Italian dressing

1 cup Mayo

Salt and pepper to taste.

Optional: Olive slices, pickles

I put the meat and cheese on the sliced bread and baked under the broiler for about 10 minutes until the cheese was browning. For the slaw (this is the magic maker): chop the lettuce, onion, and banana peppers into tiny pieces. Pour into a large bowl and add dressing, mayo, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Once the cheese is melted, pull the sandwiches from the oven. Add the slaw and any extra toppings you like and enjoy!

Cranberry Mayo Turkey Sandwiches

By Hailey Minton

This easy to make cranberry mayonnaise is the perfect complement to your favorite turkey sandwich.

Deli turkey, sliced thin Hoagie buns or your favorite bread

2 Tbsp. mayonnaise

2 Tbsp. whole berry cranberry sauce

Salt to taste

Optional toppings: cucumber, sprouts, fresh spinach, tomatoes, Monterey jack or mozzarella cheese. Mix mayonnaise and cranberry sauce until blended and creamy. Spread onto hoagie buns or bread, layer turkey and toppings on, and enjoy!

Air Fryer Chips

By Ryan Spelts

6-7 Russet Potatoes, sliced thin 2- 4 Tbsp. Olive Oil

Salt to taste

Peel potatoes with a vegetable peeler. Using a mandolin or sharp knife, cut potatoes into thin slices. Transfer to a large bowl, add ice cubes and enough ice water to cover. Soak for 15 minutes and drain. Repeat this soaking process another 15 minutes. Drain potatoes, place on towels and pat dry. Add to a large mixing bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with table salt. Place potatoes in single layers in the bottom of the air fryer, add another layer in the basket. Cook at 400° for 15 minutes, or until crisp or slightly browned in spots (check them often to ensure they don’t get overcooked).

Convection Oven Option

for larger batches: Place potato slices on a large baking sheet, cook at 350° for 15 minutes or until slightly browned.

DAWN PAUL

SCAN CODE

MADE FOR YOU MENU PLAN AND RECIPES. MAKE A MASTER SHOPPING LIST AND PRINT OR SEND TO YOUR PHONE FOR EASY MEAL AND GROCERY SHOPPING. Menu Plan Curated by Deidre Roush

Rigatoni with Ricotta

Egg Bacon & Tater Tot Casserole Side of fresh fruit.

Strawberry Cheesecake

Stuffed French Toast with scrambled eggs

Tacos with a side of Mexican Corn Salad

Chicken Sandwich with a side of Coleslaw

Beef and Broccoli served with Rice

Our favorite Hamburger with a side of French Fries

Jen’s Chicken Alfredo with Veggies

Breakfast Crescent Ring

Easy Baked Flautas with a side of Chips and Guacamole

Ryan’s Italian Grinder Sandwich with Slaw

Grilled Chicken Salad

Sweet Pork Quesadillas with a side of Seasoned Black Beans

Pearl Couscous with Tomato, Chickpea, and Feta with a side Kale Salad

Baked Lemon Chicken with a side of Rice and Green Beans

Ham, Cheese, and Egg Strata

Scallion and Sharp Cheddar Savory Pancakes

Sloppy Joes

Chicken Broccoli Casserole

Chicken Salad Stuffed Peppers

Cranberry Mayo Sandwiches

Asparagus and Pea Pasta

Loaded Caprese

Grilled Cheese

Easy Chicken Stir Fry with rice

Slow Cooker Sandwich