Syracuse Connection is published monthly by Connection Publishing© www.syracuseconnection.com
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Ryan Spelts
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Robert Dodd
WRITERS
Mayor Dave Maughan
Elizabeth Najim
Brody Bovero
Shiela Warley
Ryan Spelts
Hagen Cook
Kendal Rae Jensen
Cindy Jones
Hailey Minton
Melissa Spelts
AD DESIGN
Robert Dodd
Abigail Rigby
Crystal Rappleye
Hyrum Rappleye
EDITORS
Savanna Clark
Nathaniel Loomis
Kassie Baker
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It is quite common for members of a community to want to see their own values represented in their government. When it is our tax dollars that fund public services, it makes sense that we all want the spending of those dollars to harmonize with the choices we would make. In other words, we ask that our money be spent with the same digression or limitations of personal budgets.
One of the ways we accomplish this is that we elect members of our own community to represent us. The representative government suggests a member of our own community serve as our Congressmember, Senator, Legislator, Commissioner, and on down to Mayor and City Council members. The more local the body of government, the closer we are to the people we elect. While each of you may not personally know the Mayor and City Council, it is possible you could. They live in the same city and logically, you could find them in the community. There is some measure of accessibility just because we all live, work, shop, worship, and play in the same area. Good or bad, I have always embraced that as part of the job I agreed to.
If you want your government to reflect your values, you need to be willing to serve or find others with those values to support you. It doesn’t make sense to be unhappy with the way things are if you are not willing to step up and either lead or at the very least support someone who will lead the way you wish to follow. I have said it many times in various places. We need good people to run for office. That statement remains true and is absolutely not meant to be a reflection, positive or negative, of anyone currently serving, as I have no knowledge of their future plans. It is an independent reflection that, with every opportunity, we need enough people to run for office to provide voters a choice that offers them the opportunity to support someone that represents their views. We always need good people.
I am specifically choosing to place this message NOT in conjunction with an election. My message is to get people to think about this before the moment is at hand. A person interested would need to file to run for office five months before any election. It is not meant to be a spur-of-themoment decision. Elected offices are not the only opportunity to serve. The city has appointed positions to serve on boards and commissions. Beyond the city, there are community organizations that need your voice. Your contribution to your community is what helps it become a better community. I applaud the many who contribute, whether elected, appointed, called, or volunteering. Thank you for all your contributions to helping us be a better place.
Mayor Dave Maughan
Stay connected!
The city's website has information on every department in the city, and the Facebook page has fun updates on events and other local interests.
If you want your government to reflect your values, you need to be willing to serve or find others with those values to support you.
Design Ann Park
& Operations Mgr.
Kendal Rae Jensen
Diane Liberator Sales
Danielle Arana Sales
Hailey Minton Writer
Kris Blankman Writer
Cindy Jones
Kim Crook
Media Mgr. Dawn Paul Photographer Kassie Baker
Savana Clark
Loomis
The City Council held a combined business meeting and work session on January 10, 2023. At that meeting, the Council took the following actions:
• Authorized the purchase of two ambulances and a fire engine for future budget years due to the extended lead time for manufacturing and delivery. The Council also authorized the purchase of two Bobtail trucks for the Public Works Department for similar reasons.
• Authorized the Mayor to execute a purchase agreement with Weber Basin Water Conservancy District for additional treated water.
• Authorized the award of a construction contract for the Marilyn Acres Phase Five capital improvement project.
• Amended Section 11.20.060 of the City Code related to winter parking on the street, eliminating language pertaining to special permission from the police department.
A monthly update on new builds around Syracuse
BY ELIZABETH NAJIM
A new restaurant chain is expected to move into the Briggs North Development early this year. This will be located just east of McDonalds on Antelope Drive. At the time of this writing, it has not yet been finalized, but it will occupy a single building as a fast food joint with a drive-thru. We will let you know more information as it comes up. Stay tuned for upcoming information about the Syracuse Temple, new businesses, and Ogden Regional Medical Center’s new emergency room, to debut in
• The Council also discussed several items, which can be viewed on the City’s website at syracuseut.gov/AgendaCenter
The next City Council meetings are scheduled to be held on February 14th and February 28th at 6:00 pm at City Hall. Residents may attend in person, via Zoom, or may watch online via Youtube. Stay informed about City Council meetings and agendas by subscribing to the City’s Notify Me list here: syracuseut.gov/list.aspx
The city council normally meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month. Meetings are being held in person and are also available on Zoom and YouTube. Public comment is welcome.
Syracuse later this year. With the addition of this hospital-level ER, there will now be 14 emergency departments operated by MountainStar Healthcare in the state (eight hospitals, six offcampus emergency centers).
Moody’s Investors Service has upgraded the City of Syracuse, UT’s issuer rating to Aa1 from Aa2. The issuer rating reflects the city’s credit quality and ability to repay debt and debt-like obligations without consideration of any pledge, security, or structural features. Concurrently, Moody’s upgraded the city’s lease revenue bond rating to Aa2 from Aa3. Lease revenue bonds are typically used for non-tax-supported projects, such as utility projects that are funded through utility bills. So what does this all mean? Due to the city’s commitment to fiscal responsibility, sound financial management practices, and its growing tax base, it will qualify for lower interest rates if it needs to bond (borrow) or refinance an existing bond. This will result in saving thousands of tax dollars in lower interest payments.
The Aa1 issuer rating reflects the city’s growing tax base in the Salt Lake City (Aaa stable) Metropolitan Area, which has led to favorable and growing wealth and income metrics. Although recent nationwide increases in interest
Our employee spotlight features the new City Attorney, Brieanne Brass! Brie represents the City in all legal matters and provides legal advice to the Mayor, City Council, and Syracuse staff. She has been with the city for a little over three months. She has spent the majority of her legal career in public service and is excited for the opportunity to serve the City of Syracuse going forward. Originally from Utah, Brie went to the University of Utah for her undergraduate degrees and obtained her JD from Gonzaga University School of Law. When not practicing law, she loves painting, running, crocheting, traveling to warm places, eating breakfast foods and desserts, and spending time with her family.
THANK YOU all for your hard work and dedication to the city of Syracuse!
rates have led to fewer construction permits, the tax base is anticipated to continue growing. The median household income in Syracuse adjusted for regional price parity is significantly above the US Median. The city benefits from a diverse and stable revenue structure composed primarily of property taxes, sales taxes, and impact fees, which are anticipated to benefit from continued growth.
BY RYAN SPELTS
BY SHIELA WORLEY
Syracuse City Arts Council is pleased to announce Heather Saks as director, and Erin Roring as music director for our summer musical production of “Freaky Friday.” We are still looking for an assistant director, choreographer, and other production team positions (stage manager, costume designer, set designer, lighting, tech crew, etc.) Please send your letter of interest to info@syracuseutah.org. Include any previous experience and conflicts you may already have for April-July. If you are interested in volunteering in any other capacity, please send a letter of interest stating how you could be of help. This is a great way to be involved in and promote the arts within our community
Mark Your Calendars!
Our next Symphony Orchestra concert featuring special guest artists from around the world is on February 27 at 7:30 p.m. at Syracuse High School!
–Battle of the Bands–
Watch for more information on when and where next month. We will update our Facebook page and our website at syracuseutaharts.org as soon as we have that information.
Our concerts are free to the public, however, donations are greatly appreciated.
We would like to extend our thanks to our sponsors, Classical Strings and Young Chevrolet. Our sponsors make it possible for us to offer free admission to our amazing concerts and they also help us to defray the costs of our musicals.
If you'd like to join Classical Strings and Young Chevrolet as sponsors for our 2023 season, contact Libby Fawcett at libby@syracuseutaharts.org. We'd love to add you to our list
Website: classicalstrings.net Social Media: @classicalstrings.ut
Lots of fun programs to join!
Jan. 1st - Feb. 19th
Leagues:
Little Kicks (must have turned 3 by Sept. 1, 2022)
Pre-K (must have turned 4 by Sept.. 1, 2022)
Kindergarten (Co-Ed)
1st grade (Co-Ed) 2nd grade (Co-Ed)
3rd grade Boys 4th grade Boys
3rd & 4th grade Girls 5th & 6th grade Girls
5th & 6th grade Boys 7th-9th grade (Co-Ed)
Registration: Feb. 1st – Apr. 2nd
Leagues
T-Ball - Pre-K (must be 5 by Sept. 1, 2023)
Coach Pitch (Kindergarten)
Single A Machine Pitch (1st/2nd grade)
Double A Machine Pitch (2nd/3rd grade)
Triple A Baseball (3rd/4th grade)
Major Baseball (5/6th grade)
Jr. High Baseball (7-9th grade)
Minor Softball (3rd/4th grade)
Major Softball (5th/6th grade)
Jr. High Softball (7-9th grade)
Need a date night, girls’ night, or a treat for yourself? Come enjoy our paint night, where you will receive easy to follow, step by step instructions to create your own beautiful art! You will be painting Valentine Gnomes.
Location: Community Center
Date: Feb. 10th: 6 - 8 p.m.
Cost: $30 (All supplies provided)
for Kids (10 & up)
Location: Community Center
Cost: $40 per session (all supplies provided)
Sessions: February: Acrylics
March: Imitate the Greats (Each session will be 4 weeks on Wednesdays)
Time: 3:45 - 5 p.m.
Syracuse City needs volunteers to stuff plastic eggs for the Easter Egg Hunt on April 8th.
For more info, or to reserve eggs, Please call the Syracuse Community Center at 801-614-9660 opt. 1.
For more detailed information, and registration on these, and other programs visit www.syracuseut.gov
When: Every Wednesday
Time: 9 a.m.
Move your body with one of our fitness classes. The FIRST ONE IS FREE!
Cost: First class is free $5 drop-in / 10-time punch pass $30
Work your heart, muscles, and mind in this fun, energetic workout! All skill levels are welcome; we offer low and high-intensity options for you to choose from. Find more info on Facebook at Syracuse Fitness Classes
When: Monday & Friday
Time: 9 a.m.
Cost: First class is free
$3 drop-in / 10-time punch pass $20
Boost your metabolism and tone your muscles with resistance training. We provide hand weights and exercise balls, you just need to bring your own exercise mat. All skill levels are welcome. We suggest different options, so you can work at your own pace. Where: Syracuse Community Center
When: Tuesdays
Time: 9 a.m.
Cost: First class is free $3 drop-in / 10-time punch pass $20
Public Works is dedicated to contributing to a safe environment for the community by providing fast and courteous service. Public Works handles all matters regarding water, stormwater, sewer, land drain, streets, street signs, and street lamps, as well as pothole and sidewalk repairs. For any concerns related to these matters, the first contact must be made to our Public Works department. Although social media is a great tool for mass communication, the most effective response for a Public Works related concern will come after we receive a phone call or an online fix-it request on our website. Both methods are available 24 hours a day. For Public Works related emergencies that occur after hours, phone calls can be made to our emergency hotline.
When water flows across our lawns, driveways, and roads (such as from rain or melting snow), it picks up fertilizers, pet waste, engine oil, and more. This is called stormwater runoff, and the pollutants it carries are transported straight to our streams, rivers, and lakes and is not filtered or treated. The storm drain system flows directly to our local waterways. Even soil can be considered a pollutant when excess sediment washes into the storm drain and clouds up our waterways because when the dirt settles it can clog pipes and cause a flood. Note: This is different from the sanitary sewer system your house is connected to, where wastewater is sent to a treatment plant and treated before it returns to our waterways.
Stormwater runoff is a major cause of water pollution in our nation’s waterways and one that is extremely difficult to regulate. We all contribute to pollutants in runoff, and we can all help protect our water quality. Let us all do our part and keep pollutants out of the storm drains.
Nearly every winter, without fail, we bear witness to the stories reported by news anchors about power grids going down in the United States due to extreme cold, ice, and snow. Utah is no stranger to such power outages.
In early March 2022, a snowstorm swept through the greater Salt Lake area, knocking out power to over 30,000 homes; in 2021 Rocky Mountain Power reported more than a dozen winter weather-caused power outages resulting in a loss of power for a period of three hours or longer. Although our power company does its absolute best, they are no match for Mother Nature.
If Utah were to face an extreme power outage that resulted in a state of emergency, nearly every city has a disasterpreparedness committee that would be activated to begin providing aid and emergency services as quickly as possible. However, while citizens are waiting on that aid and battling the cold, there are many things an individual can do to keep themselves safe and as warm as possible:
● Be sure to dress for the cold; multiple layers are more ideal than just one layer of heavy clothing. Removing or adding layers based on the individual level of comfort is important as too much body heat will cause sweating. When exposed to cold, perspiration will rapidly evaporate, chilling you. You want to limit perspiration and keep it away from both your skin and the outside air.
● Cap your cranium! A massive amount of heat is released through an individual’s head, a beanie or wool cap will keep a lot of heat and energy in your body.
● Dehydration can happen rapidly, so be sure to continually drink water, even in freezing temperatures.
● Stay inside and keep all doors and windows closed. If you have available blankets or sheets not being used, use them to cover any windows or doors where heat may be escaping.
● If the cold becomes too unbearable, sharing body heat with those around you is also one of the best ways to continue to stay warm.
As we continue through the winter, here are some things you can do and items that each household can add to their emergency supplies that will no doubt be useful should a power-disabling winter storm make its way throughout our state:
● Ensure all the weather stripping around windows and doors is solid and there are no leaks. Weatherstripping is an extremely effective way to seal up your home to keep warm air in and cold air out as long as possible.
● Make sure you always have a well-stocked winter home emergency supply kit that includes flashlights, portable radio, extra batteries, a phone power bank or car charger, a first aid kit, bottled water, nonperishable food, and a manual can opener. Do not keep batteries in electronics, but do occasionally check them for proper working order.
● Single-use or battery-operated hand warmers are a great item to stock as they can be used for hours as a small heat source and multiple can be used at once.
● As resources may be cut off for some time, emergency heating equipment is a big bonus. A propane heater can be used in well-ventilated areas but is not ideal for closed spaces and is a potential fire hazard, so it must be used with extreme caution.
● If your home is equipped with a wood fireplace, ensure you have enough burnable wood stacked and covered to keep it dry and useable.
MAYOR
Dave Maughan: 801-624-9652 dmaughan@syracuseut.gov
COUNCIL MEMBERS
Lisa W. Bingham: 801-725-2300 lbingham@syracuseut.gov
Jennifer Carver: 801-430-8844 jcarver@syracuseut.gov
Jordan Savage: 385-424-0258 jsavage@syracuseut.gov
Seth Teague: 951-515-6423 steague@syracuseut.gov
Located at 1875 S. 2000 W. in Syracuse.
Mon - Thur 10 am - 9 pm Fri & Sat 10 am - 6 pm. Phone: 801-451-1850
For a list of current openings and sign up for job alerts with Syracuse City, visit syracuseut.gov and select hover over the Government tab and click on ‘Employment Opportunities’.
We appreciate our citizens who help the city to be aware of issues needing addressed such as road repairs, street light/ sign repair, park maintenance, water problems (culinary & secondary), garbage can pickup, code ordinance enforcement, and employee feedback. The city website is a great tool for providing notifications. The Fix-it Request link can be found on our home page by clicking on the REPORT A CONCERN icon.
Passport application processing services are offered at City Hall between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Processing takes approximately 2030 minutes per application. Passport acceptance services are by appointment only. Please call 801-825-1477 to schedule. All required forms, photos, and payments must be completed prior to 4 p.m. to be accepted the same day. Applications can be found at travel.state.gov website. Application fees must be paid with a check or money order payable to the U.S. Department of State. More info at www.syracuseut.com/passports
Paul Watson: 801-750-4059 pwatson@syracuseut.gov
SYRACUSE SERVICES
City Arts Council: 801-896-8101 volunteer@syracuseutaharts.org
City Hall: 801-825-1477
1979 W. 1900 S.
Open Monday – Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Closed Holidays
City Museum: 801-614-9674
Hours: Tuesday – Friday, 2-5 p.m.
Community Center: 801-614-9660
1912 W. 1900 S.
Summer hours: Monday–Thursday, 6 a.m.- 8 p.m. Friday, 6 a.m.- 8 p.m. | Saturday, 8 a.m.-12 p.m.
Fire Station: 801-614-9614
1869 S. 3000 W.
Lady Lions Service & Social Club: 801-825-1752
Lions Club: 801-719-1804
Utah Lions District 28UT (open to all)
Parks & Recreation: 801-614-9660
1912 W. 1900 S. parksandrecreation@syracuseut.gov
Police Station: 801-825-4400
1751 S. 2000 W.
Post Office: 801-614-9677
(Inside City Hall)
Public Works Facility: 801-825-7235
3061 S. 2400 W.
Utilities Department: 801-825-1477 Opt #2
Volunteer/Eagle Scout Projects: Lesley Draper 801-614-9655
ldraper@syracuseut.gov
Youth Council: 801-643-8996
Kinlie Oxnam is a senior at Clearfield High School. She is an excellent student who challenges herself academically with AP, IB, and CE classes. Her favorite class is CE Advanced Health Science (Anatomy), because the topic is so interesting, and the class moves at a fast pace. She is looking forward to college, where she plans to study neuroscience. Kinlie enjoys being a Falcon and has played on the volleyball team all three years. She loves the spirit at Clearfield because, “everyone goes to all the events. It’s a party!” Thank You to our
Max Brown is a senior at Clearfield High School, where he is a full-diploma IB student. His academic load has been very rigorous, but he truly enjoys learning. His favorite class is AP Calculus BC because learning so much in a short period of time is fun. After graduation, he is looking forward to more school, where he plans to study aerospace engineering. The best part of being a Falcon is the school spirit. You just can’t understand it until you experience it, as “school spirit at Clearfield is crazy!”
“The beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it away from you.”
—B.B. King
Contact
All Elementary, Jr. High, and High Schools
Feb 20: Presidents Day - No School
SYRACUSE HIGH
Feb 3: Drill State Finals UVU 4 p.m.
WR State Divisional
Corner Canyon 4 p.m.
Girls Basketball Clearfield 5:15 p.m.
Boyss Basketball Clearfield 7 p.m.
Feb 4: State Drill Finals
Swim Region 1 Championships
So. Davis Rec Center 1 p.m.
Wrestling State Divisional 4 p.m.
Feb 7: Girls Basketball 5:15 p.m.
Boys Basketball 7 p.m.
Feb 8: Drill Showcase 4:30 p.m.
Feb 10: Girls Basketball 5:15 p.m.
Boys Basketball 7 p.m.
Feb 11: ACT
Feb 14: Singing Valentine’s
Girls Basketbal 5:15 p.m.
Boys Basketball 7 p.m.
Feb 15: 6A State Wrestling
Tournament UVU 12 p.m.
Band Exchange Concert 5 p.m.
Feb 16: 6A State Wrestling
Championships BYU 12 p.m.
Feb 18: 6A State Swimming
Championships BYU 12 p.m.
Feb 21: 1st Round State
Girls Basketball 7 p.m.
Feb 22: 1st Round State
Boys Baskeball 7 p.m.
Feb 23: 2nd Round State
Basketball 7 p.m.
Feb 24: Cheer Nationals Anaheim, CA
2nd Round State Boys Basketball 7 p.m.
Theatre One Act Performance. 7 p.m.
Feb 25: Theatre One Act
Performance. 2 & 7 p.m.
Feb 28: State Boys
Basketball WSU 10 a.m.
State Girls Basketball WSU 10 a.m.
SYRACUSE JR.HIGH
Feb 2: Girls Basketball 3:15 p.m.
Feb 7: 1st Round Girls
Basketball Playoffs TBA
Feb 9: Girls Basketball
Quarterfinals TBA
Feb 13: District Semifinals
Girls Basketball TBA
1875 S 2000 W Syracuse, UT • (801)-825-7080
WEEKLY ACTIVITIES
Tuesdays Story Time 10:30 a.m
Wednesday Story Time 10:30 a.m. & 2 p.m.
Virtual Story Time 10:30 a.m.
Sign up for a link at daviscountyutah.gov/library/programs
ACTIVITIES
Feb 1: Game Show Night “Family Feud” (All Ages) 6:30 p.m.
Feb 15: District Finals Girls
Basketball TBA
Feb 21: Wrestling West Point 3:15 p.m.
Feb 23: Wrestling 3:15 p.m.
Feb 28: Wrestling 3:15 p.m.
LEGACY JR HIGH
Feb 2: Girls Basketball 3:15 p.m.
Feb 7: 1st Round Girls Basketball
Playoffs 3:15 p.m.
Feb 9: Girls Basketball
Quarterfinals Playoffs 3:15 p.m.
Feb 11: Robotics Competition 8 a.m.
Feb 13: Girls Semifinals Basketball
Playoffs (Site TBD) 3:15 p.m.
Feb 15: Final Girls Basketball
Playoffs 3:15 p.m.
Feb 21: Wrestling 3:15 p.m.
Feb 23: Wrestling 3:15 p.m.
Feb 28: Wrestling 3:15 p.m.
Orchestra Concert 6:30 p.m.
SYRACUSE ARTS ACADEMY
Feb 13-16: Hope Kindness Week
Feb 17: No School - Teacher Comp Day
All Events are FREE
Feb 2: After Words Book Club “Hidden Figures” by Margot Lee Shetterly 7 p.m.
Feb 6: Black History Paper Dolls Learn about important historical figures as you make cool paper dolls (All Ages) 6:30 p.m.
Feb 8: Book Bunch (4th - 6th graders) 4 p.m.
Feb 16: LEGO Night
All ages 6:30 p.m.
Feb 27: DOT Calm–Create beautiful calming patterns by painting with dots (Teens) 6:30 p.m.
Feb 7 & 21: Think Tuesday
Come play Mexican Train, Nada, Three to Kings, Tri-Ominos, and Yahtzee. Feel free to bring your favorite game. 10 a.m.
Feb 8: Monthly Movie–
“National Treasure” 1 p.m.
Feb 21: Book Club
Syracuse Library 2 p.m.
(Contact Judy 801-549-7210)
Feb 22: Seniors Swedish Meatballs
Lunch & Bingo at Noon.
Suggested donation: $3/person
Must RSVP by 12 p.m. on Tues. Feb 14.
Please Note: No reservations accepted after this date unless we have a cancellation.
Please add your name to the wait list.
Monthly Bus Trip: Sip and Learn
Experience an intimate tour of the Syracuse Museum with our educated docents. Afterward, we will have light refreshments, pastries, and enjoy historical conversation with the Museum Curator.
Meet at the Syracuse City Museum
1891 W. 1700 S. Syracuse
$5 (please sign up in advance by calling 801-614-9660 option #1)
Senior Yoga
Tuesdays & Thursdays 8 a.m. Strengthen muscles, improve balance, and help increase mobility for people who are challenged by arthritis or the stiffness that comes with age and/or injury. Available for anyone aged 50+/$1 or 60+/$.50 (FREE with membership to the Syracuse Community Center)
Pickleball
Tuesdays & Thursdays 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. Adults/$2.00 or Seniors 60+/$0.50 (FREE with membership to the Syracuse Community Center)
To learn more about activities for Senior Citizens, please stop by the Syracuse Community Center for a Senior Citizens Newsletter or visit www.syracuseut.gov
Feb. 27- March 1 , 2023
The festival welcomes the best of national storytellers, as well as the best of Utah’s storytellers and fresh talent from community schools. In fact, our festival is nationally recognized for its emphasis on youth tellers!
There is something for everyone. We hope to see you there!
weber.edu/storytelling
Feb 1-18: “She Love Me”
Centerpoint Legacy Theatre
Feb 11 & 13: Cinderella - On Pitch Performing Arts $11.50$17.50 per person 7:30 p.m.
Feb 18: Bald Eagle Viewing Eccles Wildlife Education Center 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Feb 1, 8, 15 & 22: Zoo Winter Discount Days - $5 online admission. Kids under 3 are free
Youmight not realize there’s a time machine right here in Syracuse. Without ever leaving the city, you can explore life in the early 1800s through photographs, toys, musical instruments, tools, books, clothing and more. Learn about the city’s unique Japanese culture with dishes, porcelain dolls, exotic silks and ceremonial items. Discover why baseball was such an integral part of the early Syracuse community, step into a Victorian-era kitchen, and re-live the difficult but rewarding farming lifestyle of early Syracuse settlers from around the world.
Opened in 2002, the Syracuse Regional Museum is housed in two structures: a modern brick building and a barnlike structure on Antelope Drive. The main building encompasses the people and events from the past that helped shape Syracuse in its formative years, and several displays of household rooms, complete with antique furniture depict life from bygone eras. The barn is home to hundreds of exhibits that delve into stories of farming and homesteading, a culture that gave Syracuse strong roots in Davis County.
Among other displays inside the barn, visitors can learn about the Hamblin Farm. The farm was one of the last dairy farms in existence in Syracuse, passed down through five generations of the Hamblin family, and known for teaching local schoolchildren how agriculture brings food to our tables. Don’t miss the two-headed calf!
Also inside the barn are are a restored handcart and an interactive exhibit about early sugar beet farms that helped shape the city, including a restored Sugar Beet truck. Another popular display is Syracuse’s first fire truck, a 1943, 500-gallon Ford truck purchased from Boise, Idaho in 1965.
The museum is also home to the Historic Wilcox Cabin and Waite’s Barber shop, both original structures from around the city that have been preserved, moved to the museum and furnished with antique furniture, tools, supplies and household items to help tell the stories of their former inhabitants.
1891 West Antelope Dr. (1700 S.) Syracuse
Open Tuesday – Friday 2 - 5 p.m. or Call to Make an Appointment Facebook & Instagram (@syracusemuseum)
The Syracuse Regional Museum is an exciting, interactive experience with something for everyone. Longtime residents can reminisce about the people and events of the past, while newcomers and young people can uncover fascinating events that happened where they live. Do
The museum hosts several exciting events throughout the year, including guest speakers, tours, festivals and the popular “Late Night at the Museum” tour every October, that entices young guests with candy and spooky tales from the past.
Life is busy and deciding what to make for dinner can be a struggle. Plus you have to plan it all out and shop for it in advance. We are making things easy for you. WhatToEat4Dinner.com is a premade dinner plan with a super easy shopping list. New features added monthly along with yummy meals for busy people and all of Connection Publishing’s favorite Recipes. Check it out today!
If you have watched or read the news lately, 2023 might seem pretty doom and gloom, especially when it comes to financial news. Layoffs have begun, interest rates continue to climb, and everyone is in worry mode. My first advice is to turn the news off if you begin to feel fear while consuming it. Take a break. It also helps me to consult the past. Being a business owner, I like to look up businesses that were started during rough financial times. Some examples: Netflix was founded right before the dot com bubble popped in 2000, Airbnb was started in 2008 amidst the real estate crisis, and Revlon was started in 1932 right during the Great Depression. These time-defying companies are only a few of many successes that happened despite the troubles of their times. I believe our current times offer the same opportunities for us to succeed, even if the news pundits get their way and we do have a recession.
Maybe you aren’t particularly adventurous and don’t want to start a company. Maybe you just need to put a little extra cash in your bank for life’s unexpected challenges. Last year, we had four car breakdowns in a little over two months. It was about $5,000 in expenses that we weren’t planning on. I talked to a friend yesterday who said her water heater went out which cost her an extra $1800, which she didn’t have room for in her budget. I have heard it said that the average family only needs an extra $300 a month to give them security when these unexpected expenses arise. This article is going to focus on ways you can add a little bit extra to your monthly income. It is certainly not exhaustive but might give you some ideas on how to fill the gaps in your budget.
This is the era of the side gig. Regular, everyday people with regular full-time jobs are doing all sorts of side gigs to make extra money. We have gathered a list that is by no means all-inclusive but hope this gives you a little extra motivation to decide to put yourself out there and start making some extra money.
Most people have heard of the next couple of options. Ridesharing and food delivery are both a way to bring in extra cash. Companies like Uber, Lyft, and GrubHub are easy enough to sign up with and get rolling. You can potentially earn an extra $300 - $1000 a month doing any of these on the side; however, it may mean extra wear and tear on your vehicle, so be aware of those costs. The benefit of these services is that your schedule is 100% in your control. You can work one night a week or every night if you want. It is up to you.
I drove for Uber before we started the magazine for one night. It was New Year’s Eve in Salt Lake City, and it was busy. I didn’t love the drunk passengers, but I earned a little extra cash and realized that it wasn’t for me. I use the service from time to time though, and I always ask the drivers how they like driving and the responses are nearly universally, “I love it!” They say it is so great to have a flexible schedule and they love that they can meet new people all the time.
Companies to consider
Another option is to use your extra space and rent it out. I have had the chance to travel a bit for work and have used Airbnb and VRBO for finding a room. You can also rent out your side yard or garage space on different sites online. One couple I stayed with had a large home in Boise where they raised their family of four kids… The kids had all moved out, so they started renting the extra space on Airbnb and it earned them an extra $1000+ per month. When I was traveling to Boise to pick up magazines earlier this year (when we had so many problems with printing), I stayed with them. I liked it better than staying at a hotel, plus it saved me a few bucks. I also parked my big delivery truck we use to pick up magazines in someone’s large backyard for $50 a month. If you have extra space, you can find someone to utilize that space and bring in some extra cash. Your income potential here will vary based on what you have to offer but the range is potentially from $50-$1500 a month.
Maybe you aren’t in a place in life where you have extra space or a large piece of property. That is okay; you have other skills. Connection Publishing has used this part of the market for nearly all of what you see in these magazines. We have freelancers to do much of the work it takes to publish these magazines: writing, editing, graphic design, and social media. A freelancer is someone who works for a company but is not employed by the company. They work as a contractor and are often paid by the piece. Here are some of the most common freelancers needed in today’s market.
Writers: We have found that there are quite a few people who like to write but are not in a position to work full-time, particularly moms who want to stay home with their children in the early years. There are so many writers needed in the general market that it is a common need. Website content, blog posting, articles, technical writing, sales copy, and many more are all areas that companies need help with, but may not need to hire someone full-time.
Graphic Designers: From making advertisements, logos, magazine layouts, social media posts, and website designs, and even making unique designs of your own, you can sell your skills or your products online. I taught myself how to do graphic design using YouTube and friends to help me get past the initial stages of design so I could help make advertisements for our advertising clients. I am not a professional, but I can do the basics, which is often all you need - especially if you have an eye for good design.
Programmers/ Website Development: I know several people who do this type of work in their full-time jobs. These skills are in high demand, and it would be easy to post on a freelance site and start taking on some side work to make extra money.
Here are other skills that are in high demand for freelancers: Cybersecurity, programming, app development, voiceovers, video production, automation, data science, transcription services, social media management, cloud consulting, blockchain, tutoring, and many many more. I have met people who help people get organized on the side. If you have a skill, put it out there and see what options you have to bring in extra cash as a freelancer. It may take some time and effort to start earning business as a freelancer, but build your customer base and make sure to make people happy and you will get busy over time.
This one is unique. Nowadays, you do not need to go to a title company or a bank to sign important papers. Most companies will send a notary to your home or business to sign the same papers. Mobile Notaries are a key piece of this industry. Notaries must train and be licensed with the state, but this can be a lucrative side gig. A couple of years ago when we signed our refinance papers, I asked our notary about his job. He said he replaced his full-time income after about two years of working as a mobile notary. The notary will make anywhere from $75 per signing with a client to sometimes upwards of $300. It can be quite lucrative. You will need a bond and seal, and to license with the state. Reference notary.utah. gov for all the steps. I will warn you that it will likely take a year or more before this is a steady income. Rates have gone up and signings are less in demand, so it could be a little more challenging right now, but where there is a will, there is a way.
If you are a deal hunter, this one might be up your alley. Buying and reselling items people want and need can be a great way to earn extra cash. This can include buying everyday products that you find on sale, then reselling them online with a markup. Many people don’t shop for sales and instead, look for convenience. Another idea I have come across is buying older furniture and cleaning it up or refinishing it, then reselling it for a markup. I have even met a few people who create artwork or useful items like calendars and sell them on sites like Etsy or eBay. Get your creative juices flowing and think about things that people may want, then create the product and sell it online. You may need to learn marketing skills to do this effectively. You can follow along as I teach marketing on my website at ryanspelts.com to learn more.
If you know a particular skill, you can also sell your knowledge online. You can put together a course on your skills and sell access to that knowledge. I am working on my first course to sell online about sales and marketing. I was told by the SBA that the most sought-after knowledge by new small businesses is sales and marketing skills. I have spent the last 25 years mastering those very skills and I will be offering a course that is designed to help local small businesses. For now, I am recording myself speaking about those skills and putting those videos on YouTube and ryanspelts.com to build a following so that when my course is ready, I will have a group of people to whom I can offer it first. I figure I might as well put it out there and see if the lessons I can offer are wanted.
This has a massive range of possibilities. You can sell just about anything. Either online or in person. I know people who sell cosmetics, others who sell oils, and others who still sell healthy juices or supplements. Then there is the internet. If you are good at creating videos or making social media posts, you could help other companies create that type of content for their pages. Another option is to become an affiliate marketer, which is where you represent and sell nearly any product you can think of and make a commission on the sale. Social media influencers often do this when they pitch their favorite brands online; they will often use a link to send you to a site like Amazon which will later pay them a commission for their sales.
I knew someone who made videos of their favorite throw rugs, linked people to the sites where the rugs are sold and made a commission on those items. I also found companies that would drop-ship their products so the seller didn’t have to carry inventory.
This one will take a little sales and marketing know-how, as well as some tech abilities, but it could be a way to add to your income. You could look at supplying products on Amazon as well. I know several people who have built multi-million dollar businesses buying items in bulk from places like alibaba.com and reselling them on amazon.com or Walmart.com. I believe that sales are such an important skill; I encourage my kids to take on jobs where they get to practice sales skills. Even if they don’t spend a career selling as I have, I want them to know the skills so they can use them in their other endeavors.
Companies to Consider:
There are so many more options available today, it’s amazing. The only side jobs I knew about when I was a kid were delivering newspapers and working at the local gas station for the night shift. Today the possibilities are limitless. They are not without effort or investment of your time. There is so much that you can learn and do online. Let’s make 2023 an economy-defying year and make our lives better by taking control of our opportunities. Let us know if we missed a side gig that you think others would enjoy.
When talking about high school sports, how many people mention girls’ wrestling? Not nearly enough. However, this is destined to change as the girl’s team at Syracuse High is proving why they deserve to be the talk of the town.
Girls’ wrestling accomplished a sanction by the Utah High School Activities Association (UHSAA) as an official high school sport in Utah in the 2020-21 season. Syracuse High adopted it immediately. This created an opportunity to try something new for some girls, while also providing the next step in other girls’ wrestling journeys. This disparity in experience may have been seen as an obstacle, but senior team captain, Sabrina Jensen, said, “I have loved wrestling with Syracuse and have made some of my strongest friendships from my team! I love how caring my team is and how they welcome everyone with smiles and open arms.” I saw Sabrina demonstrate this support during the team’s win against Fremont on January Fourth, where she was standing up and cheering on her team the whole time. While other teams might not be so inclusive of newcomers, Syracuse girls’ wrestling has created a welcoming environment for any girl interested, regardless of experience.
In its three years at Syracuse High, girls’ wrestling has been remarkable. There are already 18 girls (and counting) that are hopping on the mat; however, this is just the beginning of their growing success. Last season, 16 of those 18 wrestlers qualified for state. This spectacular achievement really shows Syracuse just how capable this overlooked bunch of wrestlers is. With that many excellent wrestlers on one team, the team is bound to excel, and that’s exactly what is happening at Syracuse High. Junior wrestler and team captain, Hope Barton, put it simply when asked about the previous season, saying, “The team did amazing last year and took home the region title.” They also placed fifth at state. That is a considerable accomplishment, especially considering all the high school teams in the state –but these wrestlers weren’t satisfied.
Regardless of their previous individual or team success, none of them have any plans to become complacent. This season, the team has set its expectations high. Junior wrestler, Lily Naylor, was a part of the team’s success last year, as well as qualifying for state on her own. Now, she’s looking forward to her and her team’s upcoming achievements this year, saying, “I would like to place at state, and I think my team will place at state.” The wrestlers have high hopes for this season and these expectations have been backed by their performance with them having one of the best records in their conference. Their coach is completely behind them in these expectations. Coach Brown has been the boy’s wrestling coach since Syracuse High School was opened
16 years ago. When girls’ wrestling became official, he was ready to coach. The coach describes his girls’ team as talented and tough, and he believes they can improve on their previous successes. He believes that Westlake High School, located in Saratoga Springs, will be their strongest competition. Coach Brown has complete faith that by staying healthy and keeping up the good work, his team can place in the top three teams of Utah.
As the 2022-23 season comes to a close this month, girls’ wrestling is still the most overlooked sport at Syracuse High. Hopefully, this will change. As Coach Brown says, “They deserve respect. Wrestling’s a hard sport for the guys let alone for the girls. It’s a combat sport but they get out there and battle.” I know I will be out there cheering them on. You should too because this girls’ team is proving why they deserve the respect of Syracuse.
“They deserve respect. Wrestling’s a hard sport for the guys let alone for the girls. It’s a combat sport but they get out there and battle.”
Weber State's event is one of the very few storytelling festivals in the nation that is university-sponsored, and it has become a beloved annual community happening. The Festival itself occurs at the end of February, and there is something for everyone: preschoolers to senior citizens, college students to families with children of all ages. During the three-day event from February 27 to March 1, the Festival welcomes the best of international and national storytellers and the best of Utah's storytellers and youth talent from surrounding schools. This year's Festival will feature internationally renowned tellers Sheila Arnold, Valentina Ortiz, and Bil Lepp. Sheila uses her knowledge of human development, passion for history, compassion for humanity and extraordinary performance skills to engage and entertain audiences.
Valentina speaks the ancient Aztec words as well as the modern stories of Mexico. Bil comes to us with humorous, family-friendly tall tales that often contain morsels of truth, presenting themes in clever and witty ways.
On Festival mornings, a conference format of concurrent sessions allows
listeners to select from various storytelling genres and is open to the general public. Afternoon workshops, seminars and story presentations are also available. Some of these events are aimed at university students, faculty and staff, but most are open to all. These events take place at the Ogden location of Weber State University. In addition, national storytellers present their superlative tales at events scheduled for each evening of the Festival, including family-oriented story concerts and a special fundraising banquet. The Festival has been honored with the Utah Association of Teacher Educators' Distinguished Project Award, a recipient of Weber State University's Exemplary Collaboration Award,
a Community Service Award from the Utah Association for Gifted Children, and the National Storytelling Network's Oracle Award. This award-winning Festival is nationally recognized for its emphasis on youth storytellers who perform their stories on stage with practicing professionals. Children prepare stories, either individually or in tandem, at their schools and are selected by their school districts to participate in the Festival. All participating storytellers will capture your hearts and create an unforgettable experience in literacy, culture, and the arts. Weber State University Storytelling Festival events are FREE of charge, except the Storytelling Festival Dinner on Tuesday evening. Visit weber.edu/ storytelling for the schedule of events.
"Once upon a time…" is alive and well at the 27th Weber State University Storytelling Festival! This year's theme, Tales to Remember: Stories Amplified, is sure to entertain.
Circle of Security Parenting is an evidence-based program designed to support secure attachment between parents and children. The objective is to teach parents about the attachment needs their children may express at different stages of their development and how to effectively meet them. Parents that have taken this class have reported a significant increase in parenting skills, improved relationships with their children, and decreased parenting stress.
We are excited to offer this class for parents at Syracuse Elementary in February. To register go to dbhutah.org/ prevention.
Questions? Contact Angie Smith at angies@dbhutah.org
Follow North Davis CTC on Facebook to find out about our upcoming classes.
The Circle of Security Parenting (COSP) program is a no-cost, 8 week class based
1. GOLDBACKS ARE REAL GOLD
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They are legal voluntary currency, accepted at more than 350 businesses in Utah.
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Unlike gold coins, which can only be liquidated at coin stores, Goldbacks are liquidable wherever they are accepted.
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This means the values are interchangeable (you can exchange a 1:25 GB for 5:5GB or 25:1GB).
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For as little as $4.00, you can start to own gold. This is far less than the 100s or 1000s that it costs to get gold coins.
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7. GOLDBACKS ARE VIRTUALLY IMPOSSIBLE TO COUNTERFEIT
They have security measures included like layered gold, a negative image of the front on the back, individual serial numbers, a government-grade border, background inscription, and more.
8. GOLDBACKS ARE AVAILABLE IN FIVE DENOMINATIONS 1, 5, 10, 25, AND 50
9. GOLDBACKS PRESERVE YOUR BUYING POWER AND WEALTH
If you had 100 dollars and 25 Goldbacks in January 2022, by December 2022, the buying power of the fiat $100 dollars would be about 85.00, whereas the buying power of the 25 GoldBacks would be about $105.00 dollars. This buying power difference is over 20 percent.
10. GOLD BACKS ARE AVAILABLE LOCALLY
You can get GoldBacks locally for the Best Price at GunsAmmoPreparedness, located at the Weber County Sports Shooting Complex. We are inside the 50yard range building. 2446 Rulon White Blvd. Ogden or call us at 801-695-1920.
Whether you are interested in buying gold in case the worst should happen or just want to have gold in reserve that is spendable, Goldbacks are an amazing currency that can be used today and in the future. It is actual gold. Each Goldback denomination has a unique artist's rendering tied into the state of origin, in our case, Utah. They are beautiful and unique.
The Goldback® is the world’s first physical, interchangeable, gold money that is designed to accommodate even small transactions.
A warm bowl of soup is a great way to stay warm and cozy as we endure the last weeks of winter. Soup is satisfying to make, and trying out different recipes and ingredients is a great way to introduce new foods to your family. Check out our cozy soup recipes and let us know what you think!
BY KENDAL RAE JENSEN
Corn (choose one)
4 ears of corn or whole kernel corn, drained
1 can cream of corn (if not using fresh corn Soup
1 tsp butter (or oil)
8 oz bacon, chopped
2 tbsp butter (use 3 tbsp if bacon is lean)
1 garlic clove, minced
1 small onion, diced (or half large onion)
5 tbsp flour
2 cups chicken broth, low sodium
3 cups milk
2 lbs potatoes, cut into cubes
2 sprigs of thyme OR 1 tsp dried thyme
3/4 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup shallots / scallions, green part finely sliced Salt and finely ground pepper to taste
Cut the corn off the cob. One way to do this is to place a small ramekin in a large bowl. Place corn on the ramekin, then cut the corn off. Keep the naked cobs or open cans of corn.
Place 1 tsp butter in a large pot over medium high heat. Add bacon and cook until golden. Use a slotted spoon to remove onto a paper towel lined plate. Leave fat in pot. Lower heat to medium high. Add 2 tbsp butter. Once melted, add garlic and onion. Cook for 2 - 3 minutes until onion is translucent.
Add flour and mix it in. Cook while stirring for 1 minute. Add broth, milk, potatoes, thyme, and bay leaf. Break the naked cobs into 2 or 3 and add them into the liquid. Put the lid on and simmer for 25 minutes (adjust heat so it’s simmering energetically but not bubbling too much).
Remove lid and remove corn cobs. Add corn and cook for 5 minutes or until cooked to your taste.
Stir through cream and 3/4 of the bacon and shallots. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and garnish with remaining bacon and shallots.
3 Tbsp olive oil
1 large yellow onion, chopped
1 cup shredded carrots
2 stalks celery, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
32 oz box chicken broth
1 cup half-and-half
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 tsp Thyme
1 pound bag gnocchi
Sourdough rolls are a delicious compliment
In a large crock pot, combine tomatoes, chicken broth, celery, carrots, onions, and a bay leaf. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Make a roux by melting butter in a pan and adding flour. Whisk constantly for 5-7 minutes. Slowly stir in 1 cup of hot soup from the crock pot. Add another 3 cups and stir until smooth. Add it all back to the crock pot mix. Stir in parmesan, half and half, pepper, basil, and oregano. Cover and cook on low for another hour. You may use fresh basil and oregano if desired. 1/4 cup fresh basil and 1 Tbsp fresh oregano.
Yield: 6 servings
This recipe is one that I found on 100recipes.com last year. It is seriously so yummy. I love it because it is a hearty stew that fills tummies. It is so easy to make and delicious to eat.
2 lb ground beef
2 packages of Hillshire Farm Cajun Style
Smoked Sausage sliced into ½ inch pieces
2 garlic cloves
Parmesan or Romano cheese for topping
Heat the oil in a large stock pot over medium heat until shimmering. Add the onion, carrot, celery, garlic, salt, and pepper, and cook, stirring until softened, between 5-7 minutes
Stir in the broth, chicken, and thyme, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Add the gnocchi, spinach, and half-and-half. Cook until the gnocchi floats to the top and the spinach is wilted, about 6 minutes. (Refer to gnocchi package for specific cooking time.) Top with Parmesan or Romano cheese and serve.
FROM THE MINTON RECIPE BOX
28 oz diced tomatoes with juice
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup celery, finely diced
1 cup carrots finely diced
1 cup onions, finely diced
1/2 bay leaf
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup flour
1 cup parmesan cheese
2 cups half & half, warmed
1/4 tsp pepper
1 Tbsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
1 onion, chopped
2 (14.5oz) cans diced tomatoes, drained
4 medium baked potatoes peeled and diced
2 (15oz) cans pinto beans, with liquid (optional
1 (15.2oz) can whole kernel corn, drained OR
2 to 3 cups of frozen corn)
2 (14.5oz) diced tomatoes with green chile pepper with liquid
1 (10oz) package frozen mixed vegetables
4 cups of water
2 tsp ground cumin
2 tsp chili powder
Salt & pepper to taste
In a pot add 2 Tbsp of butter and onion and sauté until golden brown.
Add ground beef to your sautéed onions and let your ground beef cook until brown as well.
At this point I add everything to the pot. If your potatoes are not cooked, let stew simmer for 1 hour until cooked. If you add cooked potatoes, warm up your stew on medium heat for 10 to 20 minutes until it is at the desired temperature and eat.
