Ogden Connection July - August 2021 by Connection Media Co. - Connection Publishing

CONNECTION

Asian and Pacific Islanders in Utah

Stories of SUCCESS PICTURED HENRICK LE AND HIS FAMILY

July-August 2021 Provo UT 84605 PERMIT NO 313

OFFICIAL OGDEN CITY MAGAZINE! www.ogdenconnection.com

PAID

POSTAL CUSTOMER ECRWSS

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE

My brother, Lance, can wrangle you a great rate on a cash-out refinance. Call today, before rates go up!

LANCE PETERSON Loan Officer NMLS # 253142 801-388-5888

DUSTIN PETERSON Realtor 801-528-9500

www.2brothersutah.com Corporate NMLS #248240 Regulated by The Division of Real Estate

+ F R O M T H E M AY O R

Dear Ogden Friends,

Ogden Connection is published quarterly by Connection Publishing© www.ogdenconnection.com ryan@connectionpub.com | (801) 721-3762 PUBLISHER Ryan Spelts GRAPHIC DESIGN Kristina Case AD DESIGN Robert Dodd Abigail Rigby Crystal Rappleye WRITERS Mayor Mike Caldwell Colt Jarvis Brandon Garside Mike McBride Matthew Haack JC Hernandez Sabrina Lee Brittany Griffin Neil Hansen Vy Trinh Jenny Goldsberry Rachel Long Camryn Spelts Adam Pratt Hailey Minton EDITORS Hailey Minton Brittany Carroll Kassie Baker

CONNECT WITH US! News, contests, photos from readers and lots more! We love hearing from you! ogdenconnection

CONNECTIONPUBLISHING

Connection Publishing www.connectionpub.com If you'd like to advertise in our publications that reach over 30,000 homes in Ogden, please contact Ann Park at 385-206-2301 or ann@connectionpub.com for ad rates and to receive a media kit.

Disclaimer: The paid advertisements contained within the Ogden Connection magazine are not endorsed or recommended by Connection Publishing or Ogden 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.

s Summer swings into full season here in Ogden, I’m personally very excited to see events coming back online and to see so many happy faces enjoying all that our great city has to offer. We like to say “big life, small radius” when we’re talking about our community with others who might not be familiar with our access to opportunities, and this resonates loudly with us through the summer events season. In Ogden, we’re experiencing undeniable momentum. The Bureau of Labor Statistics recently showed that the Ogden metro area is among just three cities in the United States that added jobs during the pandemic. Speaking of that, we’re very excited to welcome Thermo Fisher to the Business Depot Ogden. Their new 55,000-square-foot facility will likely bring more than 450 new jobs to our area. We’re extremely happy that they’ve decided to invest in our area during their expansion. The Suazo Business Center, a nonprofit organization based in Salt Lake City, has opened an office in Ogden at Ogden City’s Business Information Center. The Suazo Business Center is a business resource center committed to the development and empowerment of the Latino/Hispanic and other underserved communities. Aside from Business growth and expansion, many community events are coming back in full swing, and I think we’re all ready to come together to celebrate. Whether you are out enjoying a casual free movie in the park, celebrating our statehood during the famous Ogden Pioneer Days events, or enjoying an evening at Ogden Twilight, there are options for everyone. We hope you’ll take the opportunity to meet new people, explore the town, and maybe even try one of our great downtown restaurants while you’re out and about! As you probably already have seen or heard, Ogden’s emerging art scene just got better with the brand-new mural installation on Grant Avenue parking structures. Art gives the people of our community a sense of place and belonging. We put a high priority on funding public art and hope that you see little surprises around town that make your day brighter. Ogden’s art committee and community put their hearts and souls into their part of creating a vibrant and economically thriving downtown, and we appreciate all that is happening this year. Finally, please continue to be kind to one another and do your part this summer while we work through an extremely hot season in drought conditions. We hope you’ll conserve water however you can and do your part in fire prevention by not using fireworks or having open flames. We can all do our part to avoid tragic loss due to an unnecessary fire, and we can certainly do our part to save on water. I’m looking forward to a wonderful summer here in Ogden and hope that you, your families, and your loved ones will also find cause to celebrate each other and enjoy our wonderful city. All the best, Mayor Mike Caldwell

@ogdencityutah July-August 2021 | ogdenconnection.com 3

in this issue

JULY-AUGUST

The Connection Publishing Team Meet the people behind the pages of our magazines!

What is your favorite summer hobby? Melissa Spelts Owner

“Camping. I love being outdoors in the mountains, especially if there is no cell service.”

Rhett Long Sales VP Vy Trinh Sales Leadership Kristina Case Graphic Design Robert Dodd Graphic Design of Roy Connection, and Ad Design

Summer produce guide page 37

CONTENTS 5

Ryan Spelts Owner/Publisher

CITY NEWS

COMMUNITY Events Ogden Pioneer Days Rodeo Spotlights Pioneer Days Art Contest Reading is for Everyone The Thrill of Thrifting

Meka Farr Pioneer Days Rodeo spotlight on page 22!

Kassie Baker Editor

A LOOK BACK Lorene Donaldson: The First Real “Whoopie Girl”

ON OUR COVER

Crystal Rappleye Ad Design

Abigail Rigby Ad Design

Stories of Success

Photo by Melissa Spelts

RECIPES Fresh Summer Produce-Eat Local and Support Utah Farmers

Special Advertisement Pages ReadyMadeWater Arcade Galactic Esteem Academy of Beauty Wasatch Peaks Credit Union Cache Valley Bank

“Swimming!”

Melinda Hortin Sales Scott Jones Sales Kim Crook Media Manager

CONNECT WITH US! ogdenconnectionutah

Ann Park Sales & Writer Hailey Minton Writer Jenny Goldsberry Writer

Questions or comments? Would you like to advertise in our magazine?

Please contact Ann Park at 385-206-2301 or ann@connectionpub.com, or Melinda Hortin at 801-645-5054 for ad rates and to receive a media kit. www.ogdenconnection.com 4 ogdenconnection.com | July-August 2021

“Hitting the rodeo trail with my husband and kids!”

Carolyn White Editor Brittany Carroll Editor Emma Poulson Marketing Intern

Kendal Rae Jensen Sales

City Updates Pledge for the Wild

Connect with us! @ogdencityutah

Ogden, Utah, joins national mountain town partnership Pledge for the Wild BY COLT JARVIS - VISIT OGDEN

Visit Ogden today announced their partnership with Pledge for the Wild. This collaboration is an opportunity for Visit Ogden to further its efforts to promote responsible tourism to Weber County. Pledge for the Wild encompasses a number of mountain towns around the country committed to supporting responsible tourism and building awareness around opportunities to directly give back to the wild places in these iconic mountain towns. Whether you’re a visitor or resident frequenting your favorite local adventure spot, Pledge for the Wild encourages users to pause and consider who supports and cares for these wild places day-to-day. Visit Ogden will launch an outreach campaign titled Wild4Ogden to encourage participation in the Pledge for the Wild program. In addition to sharing outdoor principles and responsible tourism tips through Wild4Ogden, Visit Ogden will create a direct channel to give back locally through online or text-to-donate options with their selected community non-profit partner, Trails Foundation Northern Utah (TFNU). Each donation is sent directly to TFNU, so 100% of donations made in Weber County stay in Weber County. Those wishing to participate can donate to TFNU by texting WILD4OGDEN to 44321 or visiting www. visitogden.com/wild4ogden/. Participants can also learn more about how they can take care of our wild places or purchase a series of four special edition, vintage-style Weber County outdoor recreation posters at this same website. The posters will be available for purchase at the Visit Ogden office. A portion of the proceeds of each poster sale will be donated to the Trails Foundation of Northern Utah.

“We are excited to have Ogden join this notable group of mountain towns supporting responsible tourism in wild places. We know how special our wild spaces are." -Sara Toliver, CEO, Visit Ogden

“We are excited to have Ogden join this notable group of mountain towns supporting responsible tourism in wild places, per the Pledge for the Wild mantra. We know how special our wild spaces are and want to provide resources to support the protection and maintenance of them for future generations to continue to enjoy,” said Sara Toliver, president/CEO of Visit Ogden. Visit Ogden encourages all to consider a $1 donation for every mile of trail used or every hour of time spent in our wild places. These small donations add up and make a real difference!

+ CITY NEWS

Ogden City Council Adopts Fiscal Year 2022 Budget BY BRANDON GARSIDE

On Tuesday, June 22, the Ogden City Council voted to adopt the city’s annual budget for Fiscal Year 2022. This year’s budget included several opportunities for public input and was a product of the diligent efforts of council members, administration, department directors, and city staff. For the second consecutive year, directives from the city’s FiveYear Strategic Plan served as a guide for the budget. With the effects of COVID-19 fading, Ogden City can now fully implement the Strategic Plan Directives in their annual budgeting process each year moving forward. This year’s budget focuses on city employees and maintaining essential services by offering competitive wages. Although wage increases were not included in the Fiscal Year 2021 Budget due to COVID-19, unanticipated funds were available to give employees a prorated increase in April for the rest of the fiscal year. The FY2022 Budget includes a $5.9 million increase in wages and benefits for all Ogden City employees. Additionally, the recommended salary range increases from the Classification, Compensation, and Benefits Study, which was completed in 2020, will be implemented.

More Info

• Budget Information: ogdencity.com/budgetprocess • Ogden City Budget Documents: budget.ogdencity.com

For additional information,

please contact Ogden City Council Executive Director Janene Eller-Smith, JaneneEller-Smith@ogdencity. com; 801-629-8153.

6 ogdenconnection.com | July-August 2021

“DESPITE A GLOBAL PANDEMIC, OGDEN CITY IS FORTUNATE TO BE ON STABLE FINANCIAL GROUND,” Council Vice Chair Marcia White said. “Being

conservative with the prior year’s budget and increasing sales tax revenue has put Ogden in a good position with this year’s budget. City employees are our greatest asset, and we were able to compensate our employees better to improve retention and recruitment. Employees provide quality and professional services for the residents, and their contributions are essential to the future of our community.” The council approved the funding for five new positions within the city, including an accountant, economic development administrator, information technology support assistant, information technology administrative assistant, and a facilities maintenance technician. The council also requested two additional positions be funded in Engineering – a principal engineer and a construction inspector. The total additional cost to the general fund for these positions is $298,275. This year’s budget includes an increase of less than 1% for property tax revenue, a 39% increase in sales tax revenue, and a 12% increase in total general fund revenue. Council members, acting as Redevelopment Agency (RDA) board members and Municipal Building Authority (MBA) trustees, adopted the Fiscal Year 2022 RDA Budget and Fiscal Year 2022 MBA Budget on June 8, 2021. The city’s fiscal year begins July 1 and ends on June 30.

+ CITY NEWS

Don Rimx Art Murals on the Grant Avenue BY MIKE MCBRIDE

ave you been downtown lately and noticed the beautiful new art murals on the Grant Avenue Promenade? If not, you should check it out sometime when you’re out on the town! Ogden’s emerging art scene was just made more vibrant and exciting this June, when it received this mind-blowing, large-scale art installation created by nationally recognized muralist, Don Rimx. David “Don Rimx” Sepulveda was selected from a national field of artists who were vying for the unique opportunity to install a large-scale mural on the expansive walls of the parking structures that line the Grant Avenue Promenade. In the fall of 2020, Ogden City Arts set out on the national search for an artist to beautify the five 30’x50’ walls with a focus on art that is timeless and forward-thinking. Local, state, and national artists were invited to apply, and more than 150 submissions were received. All submissions were reviewed and graded by the Ogden City Arts

Advisory Committee, and a recommendation was moved forward for Mayor Caldwell to issue final approval. The project is funded by the Ogden Public Art fund and has a budget of $175,000. Don is a nationally celebrated muralist who is a classically trained artist and accomplished corporate graffitist. He has completed many notable installations from California to New York and has been the focus of national media on several occasions. His unique artistry style is said to “bridge the gap between the streets and corporate America.” Don spent dozens of hours immersing himself in Ogden culture, meeting various groups with diverse outlooks on what it means to be an “Ogdenite,” while exploring ideas for what is sure to be recognized as one of Ogden’s most iconic public art pieces. Grab a date and head downtown to check out this and many other great art pieces in Ogden! July-August 2021 | ogdenconnection.com 7

+ CITY NEWS

WATER CONSERVATION BY MATTHEW HAACK

Ogden City Faces Drought Conditions

Due to low snowpack, minimal spring precipitation, and dry soil conditions, Ogden City is experiencing severe drought conditions for 2021. Unfortunately, it is impossible to predict when the water supply will return to normal levels. As such, water conservation is critical to ensure that we will have enough water in the event that we experience several consecutive drought years. Currently, Ogden City is asking residents to achieve a five percent reduction in water use. This may be hard to quantify, but here are some steps you can take to help: • Only water your landscape when necessary, based on weather conditions and plant requirements • Maintain your irrigation system to eliminate leaks and overspray • Consider transitioning your yard into a water-efficient landscape • Eliminate leaks in your house such as running toilets, dripping faucets, etc.

Residential Guidelines • • • • •

No outdoor irrigation between 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Limit outdoor surface washing Utilize a pool cover and lower water level by four inches Reduce spray from fountains Use a positive pressure nozzle when washing vehicles

Remember, every drop counts!

Indoor Conservation Kit

Get all the tools and educational materials needed to cut down on indoor water use. Request a free conservation kit: 801-629-8329 or Ogdenwater.com

Commercial Guidelines • • •

In addition to the residential requirements, commercial users are encouraged to create a water conservation plan with the goal of a 15-20% water use reduction Hotels may encourage patrons to reuse their linens Restaurants may choose to serve water only upon request

ALL ABOUT WATERING YOUR LAWN DEFECTIVE SPRINKLERS CAN WASTE THOUSANDS OF GALLONS OF WATER Since most people water at night to limit evaporation, leaks and defects in your sprinkler system can often go unnoticed. Dry spots and/or a high water bill are indicators that a sprinkler system needs attention. Get in the habit of checking your sprinkler system at least once a month. Look for leaking fittings and broken or clogged sprinkler heads. Perform a visual inspection of where the water lands. Sprinkler heads that are aimed at sidewalks or driveways not only miss a section of your lawn, but also result in wasted water down the gutter.

8 ogdenconnection.com | July-August 2021

GETTING TO THE ROOT OF THE ISSUE • A healthy lawn should have roots extending 8 to 12 inches below the surface. • Get in touch with your lawn’s watering needs by using a garden trowel to dig out a small core of grass. If the roots do not extend this deep, it is a sign you are overwatering or watering too frequently. • By watering less frequently, roots are forced to grow deep in search of water. You can “train” your grass in the spring by waiting to water until the grass shows signs of stress. FREE SPRINKLER CHECKUP Ogden’s Water Utility is committed to the

statewide Slow the Flow Water Check program that identifies deficiencies in residential irrigation systems and promotes water efficient landscaping. Schedule a free water audit: 801-629-8329 or OgdenWater.com

NOT SURE WHEN TO WATER? Eliminate the guesswork with a free and easy-to-use soil moisture sensor. Request a free moisture meter: 801-629-8329 or OgdenWater.com FOR A WEEKLY LAWN WATERING GUIDE visit conservewater.utah.gov Northern Utah is currently being asked to only water two times a week When mowing try and maintain a turf height of at least three inches.

Message from Ogden's Diversity Affairs Coordinator

BY CJ HERNANDEZ

am thrilled to join Ogden City government as the Diversity Affairs Coordinator. My journey here has been a circular one. I was born and raised in Weber County and started my career at Hill Air Force Base. Most recently, I retired from the Foreign Service where I served in Mexico, Washington D.C., Hungary, Germany, and Los Angeles. Living abroad gave me the outsider experience where I did not understand the culture nor fluently speak the language, and, at times, I was a racial minority. Family ties and abundant outdoor recreational opportunities called me home to Ogden. So, what does a Diversity Affairs Coordinator do? I suppose that the first question is what is diversity? Diversity goes beyond race, abilities, gender, age and sexual preferences—it is what differentiates one person from another. We all have our own stories, strengths, and challenges. Being open to diversity is to recognize, respect, and value multiple perspectives, realizing that not everyone’s experience is like yours. The next step is to be an ally to those who are different from you. Attend community events that celebrate different heritages. Read books written by diverse authors. Seek to understand what others may experience as a marginalized group. Advocate for equity of opportunity— do not assume that everyone has the same starting place in life.

Did you know that Ogden has a Diversity Charter? It states, “We envision an Ogden where everyone experiences belonging, fairness, fundamental freedoms, and human rights.” Ogden also has a very active Diversity Commission comprised of eleven volunteer community members focused on ensuring equitable access to services, resources, and programs for all people. I am eager to work with internal city audiences and the community to help realize an Ogden that is inclusive and welcoming. COME JOIN US!

SO, WHAT CAN YOU DO? Apply to be on the commission https://ogdencity.com/1375/Commission-Application Join a diversity commission subcommittee https://ogdencity.com/1300/Let-Us-Know Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/OgdenDiversity Contact us at diversity@ogdencity.com Send us your comments - https://ogdencity.com/ FormCenter/Diversity-29/Diversity-Input-Survey-80

 Fire Restrictions are in effect in Ogden. Violations could result in a class B misdemeanor. For full details, scan the QR code or visit www.ogdencity.com/firerestrictions.

July-August 2021 | ogdenconnection.com 9

+ CITY NEWS

Recreation Centers Re-Opening and Fall Recreation Programs BY SABRINA LEE

We’ve all been cooped up for a while – it’s time to get outside and PLAY! Ogden City Recreation is excited to announce fall programs and the reopening of our centers. The Golden Hours Senior Center and Marshall N. White Center opened their doors to the public on July 6th and are excited to resume normal service for their respective patrons. For programming, hours, and all other information, please contact the centers directly or visit their websites. Ogden City Recreation has quality recreation opportunities for a wide variety of interests, ages, and skill levels! This summer, be sure to check in to the recreation website to look for opportunities to get involved with activities in your community.

COED YOUTH FLAG FOOTBALL registration is open! Cost is $25 per person; games will be after 5 p.m. Divisions are from kindergarten to 9th grade.

WASATCH FRONT FOOTBALL LEAGUE (WFFL) YOUTH COMP TEAM FLAG FOOTBALL. We are also offering

Registration is open, and play begins in late August. Cost is $550 per team; teams must provide their own reversable jerseys, flags, balls, and equipment. Proof of grade will be required.

For questions on our flag football programs or to volunteer

to coach for any of our youth programs, please call our offices at 801-629-8253. To register, please visit https://ogdencityrecreation. sportsiteslabs.com/Player

Facility Info

Let 's get out and play!

Marshal N. White Center

801-629-8346 www.ogdencity.com/330/Marshall-White-Center Golden Hours Senior Center 801-629-8864 www.ogdencity.com/365/Hours-Admission

Weber Book Links Summer Reading - Ogden Literary Arts Did you know that Ogden City Arts supports all forms of arts? Check out this literary art opportunity coming up in Ogden! Need a good summer reading list? Weber Book Links is an organization that helps facilitate the Utah Humanities Book Festival in Weber County and promotes all things literary in Northern Utah. Summer is a terrific time to catch up on reading, and we hope to see you at one of our upcoming events! Watch for the full calendar of Book Festival events in Weber County at https://weberbooklinks.wordpress.com or follow us at Facebook.com/ WeberCountyBookLinks and Instagram.com/weberbooklinks

10 ogdenconnection.com | July-August 2021

Key Community Contacts MAYOR AND CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER Mike Caldwell – Ogden City Mayor: 801-629-8111

Mark Johnson – Chief Administrative Officer: 801-629-8111

CITY COUNCIL

Ben Nadolski: 801-643-4593 Angela Choberka: 801-388-0031 Bart Blair: 801-388-1517 Richard Hyer: 801-782-2865

IROORZ XV RQ IDFHERRN DQG LQVWDJUDP ZZZ IDFHERRN FRP PHQFKLHVRQ WK

Luis Lopez: 801-686-5685

BUY ONE GET ONE

Doug Stephens: 801-393-9796 Marcia White: 801-829-1350

GENERAL & CITY SERVICES

HALF OFF! WK VWUHHW RJGHQ XW

GLVFRXQWHG \RJXUW RI HTXDO RU OHVVHU YDOXH FDQQRW EH FRPELQHG ZLWK DQ\ RWKHU RIIHU YDOLG WKUX 08 1 &RGH &211(&7,21

menchies.com

General Information: 801-629-8000 Arts & Events: 801-629-8718

Business Development: 801-629-8910 Business Licensing: 801-629-8687 Fire Department: 801-629-8069 Human Resources: 801-629-8730 Justice Court: 801-629-8560 Police Department: 801-629-8056 Public Services: 801-629-8337 Recreation: 801-629-8253 El Monte Golf: 801-629-0694 Golden Hours: 801-629-8864 Lorin Farr Pool: 801-629-8186 Marshall White Center: 801-629-8346 Mt. Ogden Golf: 801-629-0699 Union Station: 801-629-8680

Are You Ready? Take our Emergency Preparedness Class! Each Tuesday in August 6pm-8pm 8 Hours of instruction! Receive a FREE Course Booklet and 1 Premium Survival Kit ($39.99 Value)

Call to Register Today

Regula r Pric $79.99 e Specia l $59.9 9

Includes 1 FREE GUEST 801.695.1920

2446 Rulon White Blvd, Ogden

(InsIde the 50 yard range at the Weber County sports shootIng Complex)

GunsAmmoPreparedness.com

July-August 2021 | ogdenconnection.com 11

+ CITY NEWS

State treasurer and local officials work to reunite $3.5 million in lost money with Ogden owners BY BRITTANY GRIFFIN UTAH STATE TREASURY PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER

Ogden residents have nearly $3.5 million in lost money waiting to be claimed by rightful owners. This property comes from sources like dormant bank accounts, overpaid medical bills, uncashed checks, and unpaid insurance benefits. When a company owes money to an individual or business it cannot find, it remits those funds to the Unclaimed Property Division of the Office of State Treasurer after three years of non-contact with the owner. Each year, the state takes in $30-60 million in unclaimed property. It is then the division’s responsibility to try to find the rightful owner. Ogden City and the Office of State Treasurer recently joined forces to reunite unclaimed money with Ogden residents through a data-matching project. As a result of the project, the state mailed hundreds of letters to individuals and businesses in Ogden who were identified as possible owners. Even if you did not receive a letter, the odds are still good you or somebody you know has lost money. In fact, one in five Utahns has money in state custody.

HALF OFF!! Buy one entree & drink and get the second entree 50% off EXP. 7.31.21

Dine In Sun - Thurs 10 AM - 9 PM Fri & Sat 10 AM -10 PM

801- 479-7717 1479 East 5600 South A, Ogden, UT 84403 mariasmexrestaurant.com

12 ogdenconnection.com | July-August 2021

“There are many ways to lose track of property. People might move and forget they had a deposit with the utility company, or they might be the beneficiary of a life insurance policy they didn’t know existed. Checking to see if you or your friends and relatives have lost property is simple and something everyone should do at least once every year,” Unclaimed Property Division Administrator Dennis Johnston said. Partnerships with cities help the state ensure money is returned to the right people and reach Utahns who might not have heard about unclaimed property before. Residents are encouraged to search the state’s database at mycash.utah. gov and help spread the word about unclaimed property in personal conversations and on social media.

$400 OFF Complete Roofing Project

$75 OFF

Must present or mention this coupon at the time of estimate.

Any Roof Repair

QUALITY ALWAYS COMES FIRST

Licensed • Insured • Satisfaction Guaranteed

• • • • • • • • • •

We match competitors ’ prices with a lifetime workmansh ip warranty!

Over 30 Years

Repairs Experience Installation Metal Roofs Replacement Maintenance Steep Pitch or Flat Re-Roofing/Recover High Wind Shingles Storm and Wind Damage Inspection Emergency Services Also Available

NOW HIRING

CALL 801-603-4308 or request a FREE estimate from our website! AmericanPrestigeRoofing.com

Tell your story readymadewater BY NEIL HANSEN

In this year of heat and drought, having extra water storage is wise for everyone. Do you have a plan in place if the cities are forced to start rationing water? ReadyMadeWater has the perfect solution for you. Our system allows you to store a reserve of water. The tank is installed right into your plumbing and is constantly rotating so the water is always fresh. You have access to hot and cold water, even if the city water supply is shut off. Founded in 2002, ReadyMadeWater is the brain child of Neil Hansen, a former Ogden Municipal Water Department employee, who saw the need for a cleaner, more stable way to store and rotate water in private residences and businesses.

ReadyMadeWater

After seeing a major public entity (a local hospital) lose access to the city water system for hours, an idea sparked that would allow homeowners and business owners alike to have a backup water storage supply in case of an emergency. Most cities around the US have a backup water supply to prepare for times of drought as well as daily use. Our company has the same concept but is enabling homeowners and business owners the same peace of mind, helping them be ready for any disaster. ReadyMadeWater, LLC is a family-owned and operated company located in Ogden, UT. Members of the Hansen family all have entrepreneurial spirits. Most of the children have been involved in the creation, design, and execution of the ReadyMadeWater Company. You can go weeks without food but only days without water, and that is a scary thought for anyone! Our motive was to create the best in-line water storage product on the market today. We want to help our neighbors prepare for a time of need. This is the very reason we strive to fulfill our mission statement, “Sustaining Life With You in Mind.” Visit Our Website at ReadyMadeWater.com

(801) 394-2494 • www.readymadewater.com

July-August 2021 | ogdenconnection.com 13

+ COMMUNITY

JULY-AUGUST EVENTS July 17: Pioneer Days Horse and Hitch Parade - 7 p.m. Ogden's Horse and Hitch parade is one of the finest in the state. Come see every kind, color, breed and size of horse imaginable. July 18: Lindquist Fireworks @ WSU Duck Pond Dusk

Pioneer Days Activites July 11-24

JULY July 11th - 24th: Pioneer Days Activities/Rodeo - Please plan to join us at Utah's biggest and best statehood celebration, starting with the Friday, July 2 First Friday Art Stroll. This year's art theme is "Traces of the West" art show at the Eccles Community Arts Center, 2580 Jefferson Ave. Go to ogdenpioneerdays.com to see more activities available to our community. July 11: LDS Devotional @ Ogden Tabernacle 6 p.m. July 13: Special Kids Rodeo @ Lorin Farr Park July 14: Music on the Plaza @ Junction July 15: All About Succulents @ Ogden Botanical Gardens 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. Call USU Extension for questions (801) 399-8200 July 17: Untamed Pops Concert – 7:30 p.m. @ Ogden Amphitheater

LIBRARY EVENTS WEEKLY

Discovery Time Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m. & 11:30 a.m. Summer Sessions run June 1 - July 15 & July 26 - Aug 9 Ages 0-2 and 3-5. Help your child get ready to read with stories, music, and art activities. Program sessions for each age group are held simultaneously at 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.

14 ogdenconnection.com | July-August 2021

July 24: Pioneer Day Parade 9:00 a.m. The Ogden Pioneer Days Grand Parade is a magnificent site to behold.The parade route begins on 31st Street, continues northbound on Washington Boulevard and ends on 20th Street.

August 6: Open Studio Night @ The Monarch 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. | Ogden’s First Friday Art Stroll @ Downtown Ogden 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. | Gallery Stroll @ Union Station 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.

August 13-14th: NUMOA -Mustang Car Show at The Junction - All Ford Stampede. Go to https://mustang.org/ event/intermountain-mustang-and-allford-stampede-imafs/ for more details.

August 25: Country Dance @ Union Station 8:30 to 10 p.m.

August 1: Ogden Pride Festival, 11 a.m.7 p.m. @Ogden Ampitheater, www. ogdenpride.org/ogden-pride-festival/

August 4: Wasatch Audubon Bird Walk @ Antelope Island

August 11 - 14: Weber County Fair @ Golden Spike Event Center 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.

August 13, 20, 21 & 28: Ogden Twilight Concert Series @Ogden Ampitheater. For artist line-up go to www.ogdencity.com/709/Amphitheater

AUGUST August 2 - 6: The Great Ogden Art Hunt @ Eccles Art Center | Wildlife Safari (Ages 7-9) @ 966 W 12th St Ogden 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

August 7: The Gourmet Market @ The Monarch 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Farmers Market Ogden is open every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. through September 11th, 2021. There is something for everyone at Ogden's Farmers Market. Garden fresh veggies & fruits, crafts, yoga in the park at 9 a.m., live music from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., and more.

City Events

Movies in the Park! July 12: Ole (Spanish) @ MWC Park July 26: A League of their Own @ Romrell Park August 9: Holes @ Mount Lewis Park August 16: Moana @ Lorrin Farr Park

Game Club Wednesdays, 4 p.m. Ages 8 - 18. Learn and play a variety of board and video games. Yoga Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m. Ages 18 and older. Citizenship Wednesdays, 7 p.m. Register: 801-337-2632 Ages 18 and older. This nineweek course is open to everyone

The Ogden City Council regularly meets on the first, third, and fourth Tuesdays of each month at 6:00 p.m. (July 6, 20 & 27). All meetings are in person as well as Zoom. There is a link to the meetings at www.ogdencity.com/1203/ Live-Stream-Meetings

interested in preparing for their citizenship test. Story Fiesta Thursdays, 6 p.m. Ages 12 and under. Join us for stories, songs, and activities in English and Spanish.

FUN & LEARNING

Origami Animals July 1 - 31 All Locations Ages 12 and under. Lions and

Summer Reading Need a good summer reading list? Weber Book Links is an organization that helps facilitate the Utah Humanities Book Festival in Weber County and promotes all things literary in Northern Utah. Summer is a terrific time to catch up on reading! Here are a few suggestions to get you ready for some of our fantastic fall events:

CHILDREN:

Brian Floca (Saturday, Oct. 9, 6:30-7:30 pm) Locomotive; Moonshot: The Flight of Apollo 11; Lightship; The Racer Alphabet; Keeping the City Going Treehouse Museum welcomes back Brian Floca for a webinar for families as part of the Book Festival. Brian is an author and illustrator and winner of the 2014 Caldecott Medal for his beautiful “Locomotive.” Brian will be talking with families about his latest book, Keeping the City Going, published just this spring. It’s a tribute to healthcare and other essential workers who stayed on the job during the COVID-19 pandemic. Brian lives and works in Brooklyn, New York. Registration opens in August on the Treehouse website (www. treehousemuseum.org) and the Utah Humanities Book Festival site. To celebrate Brian’s participation in the Festival and his new book, Treehouse is hosting families of essential workers during the afternoon on October 9 for a Keeping the City Going Open House prior to the webinar, and these children and parents will be invited

tigers and bears, oh my! Get everything you need to create your own origami animal. Owl Tales Thursday, Jul 8, 10:30 a.m. Decode the facts and fiction surrounding owls. The Ogden Nature Center will bring two special owl guests for you to meet. 4-H Virtual Coding Camp: Intermediate July 12 - July 15, 1 p.m.

to participate in the webinar in the Treehouse Theater. Treehouse will be giving away copies of Brian’s books to lucky participants in the webinar who are watching at Treehouse or at home.

YOUTH/YA:

Alix Harrow (Oct. 25, 7 p.m., Weber County Library, Southwest Branch) The Ten Thousand Doors of January and The Once and Future Witches. Sci-fi/fantasy Harrow is the winner of a Hugo Award for her short fiction, and her two novels have been received with wide acclaim. She combines history with science fiction and fantasy, and her newest book The Once and Future Witches, reimagines witches and the women’s suffrage movement in the early twentieth century. Harrow lives with her husband and two children in Kentucky.

ADULT:

Self-Publishing Panel of local writers (Sept. 30, 7 p.m., Weber County Library, Main Branch) Ben Behunin: Authentically Ruby: The Illustrious Matchmaker of Niederbipp. Fiction Margaret Pettis: In the Temple of the Stars. Poetry Felice Austin: Awake As In Ancient Days: The Christ-Centered Kundalini Yoga Experience. Nonfiction

Check out our reading list for all ages!! Vince Font: founder and editor of Glass Spider Publishing. For a list of their self-published writers, visit: www.glassspiderpublishing.com. Other events: Spoken Word Sessions (first Friday of every month, 7:45 – 8 p.m., The Monarch) Weber Book Links has partnered with The Banyan Collective to start a new reading series called Spoken Word Sessions. Each First Friday Art Stroll between van sessions at the Monarch, a local poet will read from their original work. Come out and support our local poets!

Kaylee Nipko: Growing the Alphabet. Children’s/ picture book

Register: 801-337-2639 Grades 3 - 8. Presented in collaboration with Weber County 4-H. Learn to use code to build projects through Scratch. Registration is required. Family Luau Party Tuesday, Jul 13, 6:30 p.m. All ages. Join us outside as we play games, listen to music, and have a laidback Hawaiian-inspired party. Ogden Memories Thursday, Jul 22, 1 p.m.

Register: 801-337-2691 All ages. Join community partners, such as Museums at Union Station and the Weber County Heritage Foundation, for this monthly, multigenerational conversation. Book Discussion: To Cook a Bear by Mikael Niemi Tuesday, Jul 27, 7 p.m. Register: 801-337-2632 or visit the Main Library Ages 18 and older. Limited free copies of the book will be available. July-August 2021 | ogdenconnection.com 15

ART CONTEST Show your pioneer days spirit and enter for a chance to win. Submit your personal artwork and tell your friends and family to vote for you.

A chance to win one of two CASH prizes!

WIN H CAS ! S E PRIZ

+ POPULAR VOTE The piece of art receiving the most votes overall will receive a $150 cash prize

+ PUBLISHER'S CHOICE The piece of art most appreciated by our publisher Ryan Spelts - will win a $100 cash prize.

Get in your submissions & votes in by

JULY 31ST!

Look for the winners in our September publication! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

HOW TO SUBMIT ARWORK:

To enter the contest visit www.connectionpub.com/pioneerdays

ARTWORK CAN BE SUBMITTED JULY 1- JULY 31 Submissions and votes must be submitted before midnight on July 31st. This contest is for Weber County and Ogden residents that receive a Connection magazine. Please take a photo of your art work and upload it between the dates of July 15th and July 31st at midnight. Your art can be a drawing, painting, digital art, or sculpture. Entries and votes will be tallied and winners will be announced in the September issue of your magazine. Good Luck! 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.

PAINTING • DRAWING • SCULPTURE • DIGITAL ART

BRYSON’S

ROCK SHOP

Independence Rocks July Sales Event 10% OFF

July Ruby Birthstones

Zeolite & Quartz Crystal Clusters

BOGO 50% OFF

Any .925 Sterling Silver chain

Lapis Lazuli 15% OFF

10% OFF

with purchase of pendant!

326 Washington Blvd., Ogden • 801•399•2838 • BrysonsRock.com OGDEN’S ONLY

PREMIER MOUNTAIN EQUIPMENT SHOP

gear 30

1931 S. Washington Blvd.

GEARTHIRTY.COM Ogden, UT. P R E M I E R • M O U N TA I N • E Q U I P M E N T

July-August 2021 | ogdenconnection.com 17

ASIAN AND PACIFIC ISLANDERS IN UTAH

STORIES OF SUCCESS BY VY TRINH AND JENNY GOLDSBERRY

Read until the very end to see how you can help a local museum keep a collection of stories just like the ones you’re about to read.

ust because Asian American and Pacific Islander month is over, doesn’t mean we’ve stopped appreciating their stories of triumphs. This month, we at Connection Publishing want to highlight some very important histories that happened right here. Read until the very end to see how you can help a local museum keep a collection of stories just like the ones you’re about to read. The first Asian immigrants to the area came thanks to the railroad. Chinese workers made the journey halfway across the world to build the transcontinental railroad. They were there when the Golden Spike was hammered in Ogden, to mark the final touch on the railroad. Once the railroad was done, they helped build stations along it. Ogden Union Station was only the second building in the area, and it was largely built thanks to the help of these Chinese immigrants who stayed to see the project through. Some workers stayed in the foreign state of Utah for good. The Union Station Museum has kept a record of some of these early first generation Asian people in the area. Some sold tableware and others sold cuisine, but all of their early merchandise reflected their home country’s culture. Many stayed at the Marion Hotel while they ran their businesses along 25th street. You can visit the museum and read about the stories of these first entrepreneurs. In this article, we’ll focus on contemporary examples of successful people in the Asian American and Pacific Islander communities right here.

HENRICK LE moved to Ogden in 2001, after being born and raised in Vietnam. At the time, he

didn’t even speak English. He hit the ground running and started going to school at Ogden High. He remembers his first day he went to class instead of lunch. His teacher tried to explain to him it was lunchtime, but he didn’t understand and simply smiled back. So, his teacher took him by the hand into the lunchroom. That left an impression on Henrick because in Vietnam teachers weren’t so friendly. Meanwhile, he was raised by a single mother. All of Henrick’s growing up she worked as a nail tech at L.A.L Nails on Washington Boulevard. Even now that he’s grown and out of the house she still works in Ogden, but now in manufacturing. As Henrick made more friends, he started to want to be a part of American culture. He thought a great way to embrace the culture and community would be to join the military. His own grandfather was a Major in the South Vietnamese Army. All growing up his grandpa told him war stories that inspired Henrick to follow in his footsteps. “If my grandpa can do it, I can too,” he told himself. So, he improved his English and signed a contract with Army National Guard in 2009 and now he serves in 4th ID MCP-OD under 204th Maneuver Brigade of the Utah National Guard. His mentors helped him study English and go to college at Weber State University. His wife also attended WSU. Once, his mom asked him: “Why don’t you study hard and be a businessman instead?” But, that just wasn’t what he wanted. “I’m serving my community in a different way,” he told her. “I want to be successful in the military with the flag on my shoulder. That’s my dream come true.” He’s also found a sense of camaraderie because now he knows what unity really means. They’re his family and he’s proud he chose to serve alongside them. His unit is a counterpart to the 4th infantry division too, so he’s connected with people serving in the Army overseas. His unit was deployed with 4th Infantry 18 ogdenconnection.com | July-August 2021

Left: Henrick Division in 2019 to support the Resolution Support Mission in Afghanistan. Now, he’s a captain in the National Guard. He has a wife and five-year-old daughter.. “Without them, I would be unable to serve the country and the community,” Henrick says.

THE YU FAMILY moved to Ogden in the early 1980’s. They

were from Taiwan but they had previously lived in Columbus, Ohio, Chicago, Illinois, and Memphis, Tennessee. During the early years, only the parents, Eugene and Rita could afford to live in the states. Their three children Sheree, Denny and Kerry stayed with family members in Taiwan until they could afford to all live there. Meanwhile, Eugene and Rita took any job they could, gravitating towards the food industry. They worked as waiters, cooks and dishwashers for those first years. Eventually they built themselves up to open Peking Restaurant in Memphis. Later, when they moved to Ogden, they moved as a family, plus grandma. In Ogden they had a friend and also a closer location to fly to Taiwan from. So, they bought a remodeled home on Riverdale Road. Out of that house they ran a restaurant called “Maple Garden.” Eugene and Rita served Chinese food. They kept it at that location for 10 years. Eventually it became so popular that they moved it to Washington Boulevard and stayed for over 20 years. Their son Denny started a fast casual restaurant version of Maple Garden called “Maple Express” in the early 2000’s. He opened it nearby its premier restaurant, on 12th Street just off of Washington Boulevard. “I guess it’s our livelihood,” Denny told the Standard Examiner. “It’s what we know, what we do best.” He runs it to this day.

Le and family, Then in 2013, the Yus sold Maple Gardens and pursued their true dream: a Japanese restaurant. Right: the Yu Tokyo Station opened in 2014. On the other family hand, Maple Gardens crumbled under new management. Teppanyaki-style Tokyo Station however still stands at The Junction. As a result of its success, Eugene and Rita expect their children to carry on the legacy. “He had it built for the kids to eventually take over,” Kerry told the Standard Examiner in 2016. Daughter Sheree also stayed involved in the restaurant business. In the fall of 2019, she revived Maple Gardens, also at the Junction. She even brought back dishes from the original premier. The Yus have Denny running the Maple Express, Sheree at the helm of Maple Gardens, and Kerry managing Tokyo Station. However, Eugene and Rita are still there, loving it too much to retire. To close, we at Connection Publishing are asking for your help on behalf of the Union Station Museum. Curator Holly Andrew is in the process of creating an exhibit called “Ogden at its Core,” to tell the stories of early residents. Her focus lately has been on these Asian immigrants. But, she’d like to solicit your help to understand their personal histories. So, if you think you can help her, drop by the Union Station Museum to share what you know.

VISIT HOLLY ANDREW at the Union Station Museum today to share your Asian American heritage. She needs help recording the personal histories of folks she currently only has the names for. July-August 2021 | ogdenconnection.com 19

+ COMMUNITY

Chase Chase bulldogs a steer by holding it's horns and twisting its neck. Photo by PRCA Photographer Amanda Dilworth

Ogden Pioneer Days Rodeo:

CHASE BLACK

Ogden is proud to be home to the Pioneer Days Rodeo. Here are some highlights on two contestants this year.

BY JENNY GOLDSBERRY

teer wrestling is in Chase Black’s blood. His

dad, Glen Black, also competed in steer wrestling. The Black Family grew up in Utah. Chase’s parents lived across the street from each other, and now Chase lives in a house built next to his paternal grandmother; it has a practice pen in back. Chase watched Glen compete until 1995, when Chase was five. Now, Glen is his hazer, and rides across from Chase while he competes. It’s Glen’s job to drive the steer to a place where Chase can get to it. In the beginning, Chase rode what he calls “an old man horse,” which was well-trained when it came to steer wrestling. All he had to do was nod his head, and the horse knew exactly what to do. Glen taught and coached while Chase learned. Even though Glen is in the arena with Chase, he doesn’t always have the best view of his bulldogger son. He used to get in trouble for looking back and watching. “I don’t think he’s quite as bad anymore,” Chase says. This may be on account of the big screen most rodeo stadiums have. On the other hand, Chase’s mom, Gena Black, is also seeped in the rodeo community and has been involved with the Ogden Pioneer Day Rodeo committee for over 30 years. Gena is one of the Vice Chairs over special events, opening ceremonies, and hospitality. Because Chase was raised in and around this event and community, this Pioneer Days Rodeo “feels like a hometown rodeo” to Chase. “Those are the ones you get the most nervous for,” he says. “We 20 ogdenconnection.com | July-August 2021

have a lot of friends here. I have a good cheering section.”

“I took the reject horse, and he found his calling in steer wrestling."

Today, Chase rides a bay horse named French Fry. The horse used to belong to Chase’s sister; she intended to barrel race on him. She did not get along with French Fry. He had the habit of dumping her before the second barrel. So, according to Chase, she actually started his bulldogging training. He found his calling in steer wrestling. While Chase rode his “old man horse,” French Fry trained alongside him as a haze horse. Now, they’ve been bulldogging together for the last four years. Their best time so far is 3.4 seconds. “It just clicks for him,” Chase said. “I took the reject horse. He found his calling in the steer wrestling event.” Meanwhile, his sister’s name is still on French Fry’s papers, and she likes to tease Chase about needing mount money. Even though Chase will be making a 45-minute drive down to the rodeo, he’s honored to be a part of his “hometown rodeo.” It’s a family affair. “This year’s especially hard, ‘cause it’s the first year we don’t have Aunt Des (Desiree Larsen) with us,” Chase said. “I’ll be trying to do my best. I know she’ll be watching me. It’s going to be great to get to Ogden after we missed out last year. Better lucky than good.” (continued on page 22)

July-August 2021 | ogdenconnection.com 21

+ COMMUNITY

She has to halter break him and get him leading. “Now he goes in and out of the trailer, it has been way fun!” Meka’s mare is currently in foal, and she is looking forward to going through the process again. Growing up, her dad used horses for hunting. When they were old enough, Meka and her sisters wanted to get involved with 4H, and they rode the family horse for it. “We all started on a pony. We had two ponies, and we would ride them around every day. If it involved a horse, we were in! We loved it, did the posse, and grew up through the ranks. The things I learned and the friendships I made during that time were priceless.” She still sees those friends at barrel races today.

Ogden Pioneer Days Rodeo:

MEKA FARR

This local barrel racer gives a glimpse of what it’s like to raise, train, and ride horses that can compete in rodeos. BY HAILEY MINTON

There are a lot of associations that put on barrel races and Meka loves to race with her horse Woody. He holds the arena record at Sister’s Oregon. “My little horse is amazing; he is an athlete! We’ve qualified for the Wilderness Circuit Finals five times. We also qualified for the Ramp National Circuit. “

Woody was a yearling when she bought him. He is a gelding quarter horse with a very calm demeanor. She sticks to a training regimen to keep him in shape, and Meka tries to change it up to keep him from getting bored. She explained it’s a team effort, and the horse needs to like his job if they want to compete well. “Every night we’re walking and training horses. Our routine revolves around them. Without them, we’re not barrel racing.”

eka Farr is northern Utah native barrel racer. She and her family recently moved to accommodate their growing family of horses. They currently have ten! Meka’s friends and family have been a major support for She explained that, back in the day, people would ride the her, and she turns to them and their vet for advice when she same horse for 4H, queening, barrels, or any competitive event needs it. Meka also makes sure to attend clinics once a year to on horseback. “It’s just not the same today,” she said. Each of keep herself sharp. “Ed Wright, Martha Wright, her horses are raised and trained for specific Terry Wood Gates, Norma Wood… There are so purposes. They have a kid’s horse for their many amazing barrel racers, and there’s always "Every night daughter to gain confidence in riding and something I can take away.” two ropes horses for her husband. Her four we’re walking and barrel-racing horses range in age from four Meka grew up participating in the Ogden training horses. Our years old to twenty. They recently bought Pioneer Days rodeo. She rode in the All Horse routine revolves a mare to breed barrel racing horses. The Parade and participated in the pre-rodeo. Today, mare has a three-month-old colt at her side, she participates in the WPRA Rodeo in barrel around them. and this is the first time Meka has raised a racing, so watch for her this year at the Ogden Without them, we’re horse this young. “He is the littlest thing Pioneer Days Rodeo if you plan to attend. “It’s a not barrel racing.” on our property,” she said. “I usually buy big, beautiful arena, and Ogden Pioneer Days is my horses between one and two years old.” a legacy.” 22 ogdenconnection.com | July-August 2021

+ A LOOK BACK

Lorene Donaldson: The First Real “WHOOPIE GIRL” BY JENNY GOLDSBERRY ADAPTED FROM “A GRAND CELEBRATION” BY JUDY ANDERSON

wasn’t easy for the Donaldson family to own a horse while living in the big city of Ogden in the late 1920’s. So, when their then seven-year-old daughter Lorene showed an interest in horse riding, they rented a pony for her to ride. That wasn’t enough, and Lorene eventually wanted a horse of her own. Her parents told her, if she could buy the horse, they would buy the feed. As a result, Lorene started pooling her money. Meanwhile, other kids were buying candy. Five years would go by before she could afford a horse; however, that gave her enough time to study up on how to take care of one. Throughout the years, she received gifts like riding pants and boots.

The “Whoopie Girl” began with the vision of Ogden City Mayor Harman W. Peery to create an iconic image that would help promote the Ogden Pioneer Days celebration. It's been a symbol of the state's biggest statehood celebration since then. The tradition

Eventually, she rallied the funds for a beautiful bay mare named Ginger. Lorene went on to win many races with her. She also rode alongside every parade she could that allowed horses. Then, after a couple of years’ practice, Mayor Harman Peery noticed her riding. He was the third mayor of Ogden at the time. He wanted to put Ogden on the map and seeing Lorene ride so expertly gave him an idea. But first, he tested her.

Lorene's recreation of Epoch Bolle's "Whoopie Girl." She was 14 years old.

Mayor Peery asked Lorene to lead a parade. Instead of riding Ginger, though, he had her mount his horse to see how she’d do. Lorene accepted and led the parade without a hitch. So, he told her he had a job for her. He was the titular owner of Peery’s Egyptian Theater, which gave Lorene the impression that the job was for the theater. There was something much

He asked her to be the face of Ogden’s Pioneer Days Rodeo. She was 14 years old at the time. bigger in store for her.

Lorene and Mayor Peery during Ogden Pioneers Day parade. July-August 2021 | ogdenconnection.com 23

+ A LOOK BACK

during the Ogden Pioneer Days parade, and it’s recreated every year for other girls to be her proxy. The Pioneer Days celebration that year was a huge success. Celebrity rodeo performers came in to compete. Utah’s Governor Blood was there too. Mayor Peery wanted the experience to be open to all people, so he only charged 50 cents a ticket for the seven-day celebration. Lorene was crowned Rodeo Queen that year. Over 1,400 newspapers went on to publish Lorene’s photo, some long after Pioneer Days was over. Even international papers got a hold of it. Lorene received lots of fan mail following the photoshoot. She went on to get a teaching degree from Utah State University. Then, she married a man in the Army named Richard W. Hall. They would go on to live all over the United States, returning to Ogden occasionally. Lorene passed away in 1995 at the age of 73. Lorene in the Pioneer Days Parade of 1964, wearing the original outfit. Later, her daughter Judy would wear it for years during the same parade, and it's recreated every year.

The dress

The rodeo pageant was a new concept, even in 1936. There had only been one Rodeo queen before: Marilyn Eccles, in 1935. A photoshoot with Lorene Donaldson would become the promotion for rodeo pageants in perpetuity. Mayor Peery wanted to recreate the cover of Film Fun Magazine of October 1935. The original cover was a cartoon drawing of a “Whoopie Girl” by Enoch Bolles, but he wanted to have Lorene pose in a picture. A nearly exact replica of the outfit was made for the photoshoot. There is some discrepancy on who actually sewed the outfit. In a 2009 interview with KSL, Lorene’s daughter, Anne Call House, claimed that Lorene’s mother made the outfit. In “A Grand Celebration” by Judy Anderson, Mayor Peery commissioned the outfit. If you know, call in! Either way, it was an outfit that Judy would go on to wear for years

Lorene Donaldson was a charming young woman who has been an inspiration for the Ogden Pioneer Days Whoopie Girl for the past 85 years. 24 ogdenconnection.com | July-August 2021

Lorene riding her horse

Buy 2 - Get 1 FREE Microneedling Treatment Home of the FREE Skin Check www.RMDMed.com for details

5748 S. Adams Ave. Parkway Washington Terrace

801-827-9100

1920 W. 250 N., Suite 17 Millcreek Plaza, Marriott-Slaterville

July-August 2021 | ogdenconnection.com 25

OUR IMAGE IS OUR LEVEL OF PROFESSIONALISM

John Chevalier, Owner

Weber County’s ONLY Certified Repair Expert! 3520 Wall Ave., Ogden • 801-395 -1946 • collisioncenterz.com 26 ogdenconnection.com | July-August 2021

the art scene brought to you by Cache Valley Bank

people layer different clothing, and I wonder what I would be doing if I was her. I also find beauty in the mundane little things we do on a daily basis.” She has embroidered a scene of a woman brushing her hair and other similar moments. “It takes you back to moments that you didn’t see the beauty in at the time.”

SPOTLIGHT Community Art Show is hosted

quarterly at Ogden’s Historic Union Station, welcoming artists of all skill levels and people of all backgrounds. The first show is on display at the Union Station until August 13th. The second show - Sustainable Planet- is open to artist submissions until August 2, 2021 at 4 p.m. Visit ogdencity.com/878/openartist-calls for submission details.

MUSIC ON THE PLAZA Every Wednesday evening from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m through July 14th, at The Junction Plaza between Sonora Grill and Wing Nutz. Grab dinner or dessert and enjoy the music from a patio or the plaza grass.

ARTIST BIO

Audrey Christensen is

an artist and a people watcher. Her memory of watching her mother sew clothing eventually led her to her mixed media art form of embroidery and watercolor. Audrey was suffering with postpartum depression after her

UPCOMING EVENTS

July 18: Weber State University – LINDQUIST POPS CONCERT and FIREWORKS at Weber State Duck Pond at Dusk. A highlight of every year is the annual Lindquist concert and firework show. Enjoy listening to the New American Symphony and watching the amazing firework show.

last child was born, and she wondered if making something for her daughter would help build a connection. She started making dolls, and people began asking her to make dolls for them. “I learned how to embroider while doing the intricate stitching for doll faces. I also draw in a sketchbook, so that’s when I thought about embroidering some of my drawings.” Stitching takes a lot of energy, and she was looking for different options. That is when she happened upon incorporating watercolor into her work. “I fell in love with having the paint on the fabric and seeing how it spreads. It allowed a release for me.” Watching the paint go on the fabric helped her through postpartum depression. A lot of her pieces are inspired by how she perceives the people she observes. She finds herself observing the performances of how people present themselves in public. “I like to see July 29 - Aug 14: Into the Woods @ Perry’s Egyptian Theater Every month: The Great Ogden Art Hunt is a monthly art scavenger hunt that takes place throughout various local Ogden art galleries and businesses. Each month, visitors and patrons must search for a

Audrey hosts watercolor embroidery classes and doll making classes. “I teach 100%.” She is ready to teach everything she knows to help others succeed. “I love seeing people try this for the first time, find joy in it, and leave with a piece they created. It’s inspiring to see people get that spark of creativity, even people who don’t believe they are creative; everyone has something they can share. I want them to be empowered to express themselves.” Visit heybefab.com to see when and where you can attend a class.

Follow Audrey! Facebook & Instagram: @heybefab

hidden art piece (painting, pottery, sculpture, etc.) housed in one of several participating locations for a chance to win $100 cash AND the hidden artwork itself! Follow @ TheMonarchOgden on Instagram or Facebook for the clues and participating locations.

Statewide presence. Local focus. Serving Utah in 18 locations cachevalleybank.com \\ 801-823-4596

July-August 2021 | ogdenconnection.com 27

+ COMMUNITY

The Thrill of Thrifting BY RACHEL LONG & CAMRYN SPELTS

Long-time thrift-shopper,

17-year-old Camryn Spelts, will be leaving soon for her first semester at BYU Hawaii. Spelts first began thrift store shopping to save money and because clothes, especially jeans, have not always fit properly. “The stores don’t always sell what is the correct size for every body type, and it can be expensive,” she says, “Saving money through making my own clothes has become a blessing.” Spelts adds, “I can go to DI, Goodwill, or Savers and buy 10 pairs of jeans for the price of one pair from Pacsun or American Eagle.” Spelts has been thrifting for about eight years now. She says, “I have always loved clothes, but growing up, I never loved the store’s clothes, and I never matched the perfect length or width of sizes.” So, Spelts took matters, including jeans, into her own hands. “I would hand-sew them, and it would take hours, but I slowly got really good at fixing them.” As with most things, practice makes perfect. Spelts explains, “I started to make my technique less noticeably ‘taken-in’ and my collection of jeans and shorts that fit me perfectly began to grow. My parents got me a sewing machine, and the process has become so much faster, thanks to them.” A relative newcomer to the thriftshop experience, seventh-grader, Rachel Long, says, “Shopping at thrift stores is not only a good way to save money, it’s a fun way to express yourself through fashion.” She adds, “I love thrifting. I like that I am upcycling something so that it doesn’t end up in the landfill.” 28 ogdenconnection.com | July-August 2021

Rachel Long (left) and Camryn Spelts both enjoy the treasure hunt, and savings from thrift store shopping. Camryn sews the jeans she buys, to a custom fit. "I never matched the perfect length or width of sizes."

Long, like Spelts, says she often cuts and frays hems of jeans or adds holes to make jeans fit her style. “I look for the potential in clothes. I say my aesthetic is sort of funky-alt; my mom says it has a 90s grunge vibe. I have a budget, so thrift store shopping is a fun, creative way to save money and make secondhand clothes work for me,” she says. For Long, the process is like a treasure hunt. “I go through a thrift store; I find something I like, and then I’ll move on to build an outfit based on that piece.” Long says she looks for unique finds and wardrobe basics, then adds her own flair. “I found a cool jacket in the men’s section at Savers,” she says. “Don’t be afraid to look around and make the clothes your own.” Both Spelts and Long agree that thrifting takes patience, but they promise, with a little searching, anyone can find cute clothes and save money in the process.

Tell your story Esteem academy of Beauty BY JENNY GOLDSBERRY

Darci Brown learned early in her beauty career that she not only had a gift with styling hair but also a love for serving others! As she grew her beauty business, she became more aware of the positive effect she could have on her own life as well as the lives of those she served in the salon through raising her vibration by living from her true self and helping others do the same. “When you have someone in front of a mirror, it’s a great opportunity to help them feel self love,” she says. She believes that this experience can improve self-esteem and change lives. Darci later found herself traveling and teaching at beauty

Esteem Academy of Beauty

schools all around the country. At this time, she became aware of local Cosmetology graduates who had no plans to continue in the hair business because of a lack of confidence or the skill level to work in the industry. She wanted to help aspiring students have that confidence that launches them into a career in beauty. So, Esteem Academy of Beauty was born. Now, Darci is still doing what she loves: working with people in her own studio, as well as directing the operations in the Academy. The academy functions on the idea that beauty education starts with the student discovering their own “True Beauty”. Darci and her amazing staff get to focus on loving and teaching students with as much one-on-one attention as possible. She has hired an excellent team that is like-minded to her holistic approach. Students are taught amazing technical skills as well as self-awareness, self-reflection, goals and visions, meditation, and mindfulness. Darci has found healing and success in mastering these skills, and she leaves an indelible mark on her students who receive the same benefits. The result is the majority of her students go on to work in salons and make a difference in their community.

(801) 689-3031 • 1682 E 5600 S, South Ogden, UT 84403 esteem-academy.com

hello

Summer!

Refresh your skin with our monthly specials

Refresher facial $80

botox special

This specialized facial combats free radical damage and utilizes peptide technology to ﬁrm, hydrate, and stimulate collagen production, while rejuvenating and strengthening connective tissue.

Receive a Botox treatment and get a new area free! { 20 Unit Minimum {

You will see ﬁrmer, healthier, and younger skin in less than an hour.

rewards accepted here. Specials only valid for the month of July, book now!

801.782.58

Advanced Electrolysis, llc and MedSpa

1690 N Washington BLVD STE 3

North Ogden, Utah 84404

801-782-5868

Schedule

today!

www.adv-electrolysis.com

Scan me!

July-August 2021 | ogdenconnection.com 29

+ COMMUNITY

anguage is the basis for how we make sense of the world. When my daughter was born, it was interesting to think she was starting as a blank slate. My mother-in-law never enrolled any of her six children in preschool, instead she read to them regularly, and they did well in The tremendous benefits school. When I visit my daughter’s pediatrician, she always counsels me: of reading starts with “read to her.” Dr. Dana L. Suskind is following your curiosity the director of UChicago Medicine’s compass at the library. Pediatric Hearing Loss and Cochlear Implant program. As she has brought BY HAILEY MINTON sound into children’s lives through cochlear implants, she has found the ability to hear is a wasted gift without “The words a child heard, both the quantity and a language-rich environment. Social scientists Betty Hart the quality, from birth through three years of and Todd Risley found, “The words a child heard, both the age could be linked to the predictable stark quantity and the quality, from birth through three years of age could be linked to the predictable stark disparities in ultimate disparities in ultimate educational achievement.” educational achievement.” vocabulary. Personally, I love discussing the ideas in books I love our local libraries, and and in-person story time is in full with my family. swing along with the Weber County Summer Reading program.

READING FOR EVERYONE

Books broaden the horizon of language, and libraries make it accessible to all, regardless of any dividing socioeconomic factors. Libraries really do change lives. As I have understood the weight behind the importance of reading to children, it got me thinking: what about adults? The fact is, babies’ brains develop at warp speed compared to adults; hence, the universal emphasis to read to children. Their brains are like sponges, and studies have shown children drastically benefit from being exposed to more parent talk, whether that be reading or talking about what you’re doing. It doesn’t matter how exciting or mundane it is. But is there a link between reading regularly as an adult and his or her cognitive abilities and quality of life? Turns out there is! Healthline.com cites a study where researchers used functional MRI scans to measure how reading a novel affects the brain. Over nine days, participants read Pompeii and as tension built in the story, more and more areas of the brain lit up with activity. Reading gives your brain mental stimulation which has shown to slow the progress of dementia and Alzheimer’s. A good book can also serve as a way to pull your mind out of a negative feedback loop if you’re feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or sad. Also your ability to concentrate can improve as you read. Longer pieces of text have a way of absorbing us and making it less likely we will get distracted. Reading can help readers grow in empathy as books let people see the world from someone else’s eyes. It also improves general knowledge, reduces stress, aids in sleep readiness, and increases 30 ogdenconnection.com | July-August 2021

I thought that reading would be high up on the list of ways to stay mentally engaged as we grow old, but it turns out I was wrong. Daniel J. Levitin’s book, Successful Aging, dives into neuroscience and gives suggestions for those entering the golden years of their life: “Aging is an irreversible and inescapable process. But the effects of aging are, in some cases, reversible and, Why physical activity is if not completely escapable, good for your brain: at least subject to delay. Levitin There are many factors explains our under our control - diet, gut brains don’t microbiota, social networks, do well when sleep, regular visits to the they’re not challenged. doctor. But the single most “Every minute you walk important correlation on an unpaved trail, of vibrant mental and whether in a park or in physical health is physical the wilderness, requires activity.” I was wrong in you to make hundreds my assumption, but it was of micro adjustments to through the help of a book foot pressure, angle, and checked out at the library I pace. These adjustments found these answers! There stimulate the neural circuitry is a lot of knowledge out of your brain in the precise there, and it’s fun to go way that it evolved to be to the library and follow used.” Many studies show your curiosity compass. It’s that memory is enhanced by amazing what you can find! physical activity.

get moving!

Happy reading!

Say Goodbye to

JUNK & CLUTTER Save

UP TO

$75

www.childrensclassic.net

arten n derg Pre-Ki oms lassro C y it l Qua kly ff, Wee a t s f .M . vity o g S.T.E n i d Longe u l nc ulum i curric ance, d en t r a p y e k rent ras, Pa Secure e m a c pp -class h on e A P with in t n e em Engag

WE DO ALL THE LOADING, HAULING, AND CLEAN UP Dependable • Honest •Insured • On Time

• Junk Removal • Appliance & Furniture Removal • TV’s & Electronics • Hot Tub Removal • House & Garage Clean Up • Yard Clean Up • Construction Debris

OTHER SERVICES: • Document Shredding • Data Destruction • Dumpster Monitoring – 3 Months FREE (call for details) N

O JOB TOO BIG OR SMAL L

801-393 - J U NK Uta h Ju n k S ol u t i o n s.c o m $

(5865)

25 off $195 or more / $75 off $500 or more*

Cannot be combined with any other offers. Expires 7/31/2021

Now Registering for 2021-22 school year! 160 9th Street, Ogden, 801-399-4446 5820 Wasatch Dr., S. Ogden, 801-479-0400 July-August 2021 | ogdenconnection.com 31

HEARING IMPROVEMENT CENTER

COVID RELIEF!!

Start spending time with your families again and HEAR what you’ve been missing. Come in and see us today!

United Healthcare will now pay a portion towards a new set of Hearing Aids. Call today to find out more details!

Unitron T-Moxi Fit

$750 Blue Cross Blue Shield Federal Employees Covers

$2,500

Mail Handlers Pays

$2,000

00 EA.

Financing Available

0% INTEREST FOR 18 MONTHS (NO DOWN PAYMENT) See store for details

LOCAL & FAMILY-OWNED FOR OVER 30 YEARS. OUR SERVICE CAN’T BE BEAT BY THE BOX STORES! 811 E. 12th STREET, OGDEN

801-392-4310

32 ogdenconnection.com | July-August 2021

Y Oremax U RjackieHhoff OME, YOUR COMMUNITY, Y O U R R E A LT O R JACQUELINE HOFF Certified Residential Specialist Senior Real Estate Specialist Associate Broker

801.920.8853

Jaci@Move2Mountains.com

July-August 2021 | ogdenconnection.com 33

The Lindquist Family Presents the 42nd Annual

Pops Concert and Fireworks Sunday, July 18th, 9 p.m.

Ada Lindquist Plaza, Weber State University New American Philharmonic • Fireworks • Mountain Men • Cannons

Free to the Public

Weather Permitting • No Roller Blades Please

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, last year’s event had to be cancelled but it’s back bigger and better than ever. Grab your family, some treats and blankets and come celebrate America and Utah’s Pioneer heritage for this annual event. 34 ogdenconnection.com | July-August 2021