Weber County Connection September - October 2021

Farr West • Plain City • West Haven • Marriott-Slaterville • Hooper & Unincorporated

WEBER COUNTY CONNECTION

2021 Weber County

Junior Livestock Program Dutch Oven Recipes Community Influencers Miss Rodeo Utah

TWENTIETH ANNIVERSARY 2001-2021

THANK YOU TO OUR

FIREFIGHTERS

Provo UT 84605 PERMIT NO. 313

September/October 2021

www.webercountyconnection.com

OFFICIAL WEBER COUNTY MAGAZINE!

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Two Brothers AD

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

As your summer of fun comes to an end, it’s time to refinance before rates go up. Call my brother, Lance, to get details.

DUSTIN PETERSON Realtor 801-528-9500

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

FROM THE COMMISSIONERS

WEBER The Weber County Connection is published bi-monthly by Connection Publishing© www.webercountyconnection.com ryan@connectionpub.com 801-721-3762 PUBLISHER Ryan Spelts PUBLICATION DESIGN Kristina Case Robert Dodd WRITERS Commissioners Jim Harvey, Gage Froerer, and Scott Jenkins Thatch Elmer Ryan Spelts Jenny Goldsberry Kendal Rae Jensen Hailey Minton Kris Blankman Becky Hougaard Rachel Bitton Kristina Case Crystal Rappleye AD DESIGN Robert Dodd Abigail Rigby Crystal Rappleye

Commissioner James H. "Jim" Harvey

Commissioner Scott Jenkins

Commissioner Gage Froerer

Weber County has seen its share of residential and economic growth in recent years, and this trend will not decline in the future.

W

eber County is becoming increasingly popular among families for its affordability, desirable job opportunities, excellent schools, and its close proximity to the greater Salt Lake City area.

Recreational areas, ski resorts, and the beautiful landscape also add massive appeal for residents and visitors alike. Long-time residents of Weber County have raised their children here, and those children hope to raise their children in this great area. 71.4% of the county's projected growth is from our own posterity.

It is very important that residents be involved in determining what they envision Weber County to be like in 30 years

This popularity has an economic plus side, bringing an influx of spending, jobs, and a community feel for families and the like to gather in our great county. This growth can also have its challenges, such as increased traffic and excessive demands on water, sewer, and power, but the challenges can be met, and their effects minimized, through responsible planning and forethought.

EDITORS Brittany Carroll Kassie Baker

CONNECT WITH US!

News, contests, photos from readers and lots more! We love hearing from you! webercountyconnectionwest webercountyconnectionwest Connection Publishing www.connectionpub.com Disclaimer: The paid advertisements contained within the Weber County Connection magazine are not endorsed or recommended by Connection Publishing or Weber County. Therefore, neither party may be held liable for the business practices of these companies. The County is also not responsible for any content in the magazines except for that which they directly submit for print.

PLEASE RECYCLE

Growth is inevitable and requires community input, careful planning, and most of all, a vision of the future. With careful planning and vision, the transition can be made with harmony. Designated spaces for community centers, commercial opportunity, parks, and green space can be integrated with tree-lined residential neighborhoods. Roads will be carefully planned to minimize noise and congestion, and utilities will be expanded and upgraded to meet demand and efficiency.

As Weber County Commissioners, we understand the dynamics of what growth entails and are continually evaluating and strategically planning for the expansion of the county and its infrastructure. We are thoughtful and careful in making decisions that will positively impact the future of the county, but we can’t do it alone. When moving forward with building out a master plan, it is very important that residents be involved in determining what they envision Weber County to be like in 30 years. We encourage all to attend meetings and share your thoughts, feelings, and ideas with our planning commission as they move forward in their general plans.

September-October 2021 | WeberCountyConnection.com 3

in this issue

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

What’s the one app on your phone you CAN’T live without?

Ryan Spelts Owner/Publisher Melissa Spelts Owner Rhett Long Sales VP Vy Trinh Sales Leadership

Commemorating the brave Firefighters on the 20th Anniversary of 9/11, Page 34

S TNE OC

Kristina Case Graphic Design Robert Dodd Graphic Design of Roy Connection, and Ad Design

5 COUNTY UPDATES 7 WEBER COUNTY LIBRARY 11 COMMUNITY

14

Calendar of Events Reflections of a Cowboy Junior Livestock Doing it Right Western Wishes Women with Vision Feral Farmhouse

CITY UPDATES Plain City

15

A LOOK BACK

History of the Weber County Fair

38

BUSINESS Barn Werx

How the door was opened for this special young lady's wish to become a rodeo queen, page 31

Photo by Adam Phillips of Gracee Ableman

Gracee has a severe case of scoliosis. 3.5 months ago they surgically inserted 2 rods, 19 screws and fused her spine. They weren’t sure she was going to be able to show because she technically is still on restriction but because her animals were so mellow this year they decided to let her. She would’ve been heart broke if she wouldn’t have been able to.

42

Abigail Rigby Ad Design Hyrum Rappleye Ad Design

ON OUR COVER 17 Community Influencers 22 Junior Livestock 32 Miss Rodeo Utah 34 Remembering Firefighters 42 Dutch Oven Recipes

RECIPES Dutch Oven Favorites

46

FASHION CONNECTION Utah Western Fashion Week

CONNECT ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

webercountyconnectionwest webercountyconnectionwest

Questions or comments? ryan@connectionpub.com or 801-624-9652 Website: webercountyconnection.com Advertising: Kendal Jensen 801-603-6216 or Kendal@connectionpub.com 4 WeberCountyConnection.com | September-October 2021

“I love the Adobe Scan app; it helps me keep receipts organized and easily shared if needed!”

Brittany Carroll Editor

“I love all my grocery store apps for the coupons!!”

Melinda Hortin Sales Scott Jones Sales

Jenny Goldsberry Writer

Kendal Rae Jensen Sales Kim Crook Media Manager Ann Park Sales & Writer

“Hands down the calendar app!”

Hailey Minton Writer Carolyn White Editor Kassie Baker Editor Emma Poulson Marketing Intern

Crystal Rappleye Ad Design

COUNTY UPDATES Connect with us!

@webercountyut

Weber County Sports Complex Increases Water Conservation Efforts Same great ice, less water.

The Weber County Sports Complex has launched an initiative to avoid unnecessary ice cuts and conserve water. Doing so will help us conserve 150 gallons of water each unused cut.

Facility Managers will determine when ice cuts are necessary between ice sessions based on the number of skaters and usage.

The NHL Rink currently has approximately 507,960 gallons of water on it. By keeping our NHL Rink operable this summer and choosing not to melt and remake ice, we are conserving an estimated 1,015,920 gallons of water.

1,015,920 GALLONS OF WATER

SAVED!

Additionally, we have installed touchless faucets and flushers to minimize water waste and transitioned parts of our landscaping to a low maintenance plan for the summer months.

We look forward to providing the very best ice in Utah as we practice smart water conservation efforts.

Please visit webercountyutah.gov/Ice_Sheet/calendar.php to check out program offerings.

Email cmonzella@webercountyutah.gov to make Open Skate reservations.

Looking for a job?

We've got some great opportunities!

Weber County is such an amazing place to live, and it's filled with many opportunities!

Are you or someone you know looking for a job?

APPLY NOW!

We can help, visit webercounty. applicantpro.com/jobs/ to check out some jobs hiring right now!

September-October 2021 | WeberCountyConnection.com 5

Deputy Trainee starting rate $17.29 UPON GRADUATION $20.53

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BENEFITS: - Vision - Retirement

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Upon graduating from SFO & BCO training, pay rate will increase to $20.53.

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BENEFITS: - URS (employees can start working on their state retirements while attending school) - Tuition Reimbursement - Sick Leave - Vacation Time

APPLY TODAY AT: Apply today at WeberCountyUtah.gov/sheriff/

WEBER COUNTY LIBRARY

Weber Reads

Learn, reflect, and join the discussion of the books with this year's theme, Telling Our Stories.

Weber Reads is a coalition of people from the Weber County Library, the Wasatch Range Writing Project, and Weber and Ogden School Systems.

Welcome to Weber Reads 2021, a community-wide program that encourages discovery, reflection, and engagement in meaningful dialogue as we read books; listen to presentations; watch movies; and, most importantly, talk and learn from one another.

This year’s theme, The Air We Breathe, presents a host of exciting learning opportunities, many STEM-related. Recent themes have addressed water and fire, and it seemed appropriate this year to consider air, given the effects that an airborne virus has had on our global community. There are many intriguing scientific, cultural, and historical “jumping-off” points to enhance our discussions of the topic.

Range Writing Project. Books for children and teens, purchased in part by Friends of the Weber County Library, are being given to your school library, along with an invitation to have public librarians visit classrooms and deliver a special presentation.

In addition to discussions in classrooms, people of all ages are invited to attend Weber Reads special events hosted at Weber County Libraries. Watch the Library Web site at weberpl.lib.ut.us for details. Lists of recommended, age appropriate learning materials, produced in a variety of reading, listening, and viewing formats are available for all. Please join us.

To encourage participation, every school in the County is receiving a package containing Weber Reads teaching materials created by teacher consultants from the Wasatch

Ages 18 and older. Limited free copies of the book will be available. All book discussions will be held via Zoom. To register call your location or sign up through the LIBRARY’S WEBSITE.

The title's below reflect this year's theme,

TELLING OUR STORIES

Once Upon a River by Diane Setterfield

Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer

Tue., Oct 13th, 7:00 p.m.

North Branch Register: 801-337-2650

Wed., Oct 14th, 7:00 p.m.

Southwest Branch Register: 801-337-2670

On the night of the Winter Solstice, a village gathers for an evening of storytelling at a little inn set upon the River Thames. The arrival of a stranger carrying a dead child, fished out of the cold waters, interrupts their revelry. When the child miraculously awakens, the mystery of her identity raises ghosts of the past and changes the lives of the community forever.

Part of the Man vs. Nature book discussion series. Robin Wall Kimmerer is an ecologist, a Native American woman, and a member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation. Her memoir is a profound piece of nature writing exploring the intersection of culture and science.

There There by Tommy Orange Tue., Oct 20th, 7:00 p.m.

Pleasant Valley Branch Register: 801337-2691 Part of the Native Voices book discussion series. Twelve strangers, all traveling to the Big Oakland Powwow, are connected in ways they do not yet realize. Together, their urban voices weave a complex and unflinching narrative filled with pain, beauty, spiritualism, and sacrifice.

September-October 2021 | WeberCountyConnection.com 7

COUNTY UPDATES the area, except those necessary to preserve or enhance the rural sense of place • Prioritize residential development near existing sewer systems • Create a buffer between the heavy manufacturing area and other land uses The vision also addressed Future Transportation needs of a rapidly growing and changing area.

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR TRANSPORTATION: • Petition UDOT to move the proposed West-Weber Corridor alignment westward to better connect manufacturing areas and avoid prime agricultural land.

• Extend 2550 South, 2200 South, and 2700 North to the West-Weber Corridor, effectively linking it to I-15.

Future Land Use Vision

R

ecent growth and development in Western Weber County, combined with significant projected growth in the near future, has resulted in the existing 20-yearold general plan to become obsolete. Current population projections estimate Weber County to have a 60% growth rate over the next 50 years, or about 1.2% per year. Applied to Western Weber, that would add 3,412 people for a total of 9,112 in the year 2065. However, based on current building trends, the area is growing much faster, at about 7.1% per year. If this trend continues, it will add an additional 13,383 people for a total population of 22,495 in the year 2065.

For the last few years, Weber County staff have been working to collect essential data relevant to development of the Western Weber area, such as current zoning, land use, and existing physical conditions of the area. The in-depth study investigated different types, densities, and configurations of residential development that might be considered in Western Weber, with clustered development emerging as a possible key tool for helping direct growth and development in a manner that can preserve the cherished character and “sense of place.”

Four public meetings were held in an effort to collaborate with residents and property owners to create a conceptual planning vision for Western Weber County. This vision will take a lead role in devising a new general plan that will adequately address the challenges and opportunities that future development will bring to the county.

After spending more than a year working closely with the residents and stakeholders of Western Weber and countless hours of research conducted by county staff members, a Preferred Future Land Use Vision was established.

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR LAND USE: • Designate small mixed-use villages at primary transportation intersections • Do not allocate any more density rights to

8 WeberCountyConnection.com | September-October 2021

• Extend 4700 West to a future 2700 North extension in Plain City.

• Support prior street-grid planning by requiring collector streets to be located on section lines, whenever possible.

• Improve access to developed areas and across the Weber River.

• Accommodate active transportation along major roads.

The vision also addressed the desire to preserve open space and provide parks, trails, and natural systems in a manner that is coordinated to meet long-term community needs.

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PARKS, TRAILS, AND OPEN SPACE: • Purchase and develop a large Ogden Bay regional park with a recreational focus, including a sport field complex, large open grassy areas, running track, playgrounds, pavilions, picnic areas, shade trees, pedal-cycle park, motor-bike park, equestrian facilities, fishing, public restrooms, and potentially camping facilities.

• Purchase and preserve a green-space buffer along the Weber River that will preserve the land from becoming developed and enhance the land as a recreational amenity, including an extensive regional trail system that connects regional and community parks.

• Create regional trails/pathways along or adjacent to existing canals, rivers and other waterways, railroads, and collector streets in lieu of sidewalk.

• Explore the public’s support for creating a community fishing pond in or near the Reese Park.

So, what do you think? Community input on the vision

of Weber County growth and development is imperative to developing a general plan that reflects the vision of all stakeholders and residents of our great county. Your contribution and feedback are encouraged and appreciated. + Please visit: https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/ e18c4a2604d54f998c79ae5411b9e632

Financial Wins

"One of the most important areas where government should be transparent is how it spends taxpayer dollars.

Weber County takes its financial stewardship seriously. We are paying down debt, improving infrastructure, and making sure we have enough funds (but not too much) saved for a rainy day. This is why we’re recognized in the top 3% financially sound counties nationwide." –Ricky Hatch, Weber County Clerk/Auditor

*The graphs represent the results of the annual budget for Weber County and how revenue is allocated.

September-October 2021 | WeberCountyConnection.com 9

COUNTY UPDATES Under Proactive Leadership, Weber County Financial Standing Now In the Top 3% of the Country

I

nspired by the advice of an economist, who presented at a 2018 meeting, to “put your house in order, financially, by the year 2020,” Weber County Commissioners Jim Harvey, Gage Froerer, and Scott Jenkins, and Weber County Treasurer John Bond set in motion a 2-year plan to do just that; put the Weber County finances in “order.” With input from Weber County Clerk/ Auditor Ricky Hatch and Comptroller Scott Parke, the plan to reduce debt, increase liquidity and improve the County’s credit rating was set in motion and meticulously implemented step by step. By December 2019, the Weber County financial goals were realized.

In describing their motivations to make these decisions, Commissioner Scott Jenkins stated, “This was about the stability of the economy and of the things you can't control, including the spending of the federal government. Right now we have runaway inflation and if we don't have control of ourselves and our County, we will lose the ability to control our future.”

Commissioner Jenkins continued, “We want to protect the money and buying power of Weber County residents. The best way to control that is to not debt the future.”

The plan started with the refinance of debt on the animal shelter, resulting in huge interest savings. Those savings and additional pooled savings were put toward paying off the remaining debt of the Pleasant Valley Library. Next, both the Ice Sheet and Health Department buildings were paid off. Then, as part of the plan, the County took steps to refinance the larger of two bonds that the County received for libraries during 2013-2015, totaling 45 million. As a part of the refinance process, the County’s credit rating was re-evaluated by two of the three major credit rating agencies. In 2013, when the County initially got the bonds, credit rating agency Fitch gave Weber County a AAA rating; the equivalent of an 850 FICO score. This rating was given to only 72 out of 3,006 counties nationally, ranking Weber County among the top 3% of counties in good financial standing. The credit review of AAA from Fitch has been twice re-affirmed since, most recently for the 2019 review. The credit rating agency, Moody’s, was also included in the current review and, due to the County’s debt reduction from the previous two years, Weber County’s credit rating was upgraded to AA1, just

10 WeberCountyConnection.com | September-October 2021

one step under AAA. These esteemed credit ratings allowed Weber County to refinance the library bond at a lower interest rate, the final implementation of the 2-year financial plan.

The refinancing resulted in over 2 million in interest savings to the County.

“We have worked hard over the past three years to get positioned to weather any economic challenges that might come to our County.”

Commissioner Jim Harvey commented, “If you surround yourself with great people and you trust them, amazing John Bond, Weber things happen. Our County Treasurer leadership style is to trust our staff, but to verify, for the best decisions. We tightened our belt instead of raising your taxes. Weber County Corporation is being run like a healthy, proactive business.”

Of course, no one, not even Treasurer John Bond, could have predicted the 2020 Covid-19 pandemic or anticipated how important the financial health of Weber County would be. Having reached the 2-year goal of reduced debt, increased liquidity, and good financial standing, the County was able to carefully, thoughtfully, and successfully navigate through hiring and purchasing freezes that began in March of 2020.

“We have worked hard over the past three years to get positioned to weather any economic challenges that might come to our County. 2020 was the test for that model and we were very successful in getting through that test, thanks to good insight, wisdom, and decision making by the commissioners and the finance team.” stated John Bond, Weber County Treasurer.

Commissioner Gage Froerer continued saying, “The excellent financial position of Weber County sends a powerful message to the community; one of confidence, forethought, and preparation. Every minute spent in meetings and the steps we implemented to reach our financial goals was worth it.

We work diligently, in all capacities, to keep Weber County one of the best places in the United States to live, work and gather together.”

COMMUNITY

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER EVENTS Sept. 4 & 11: Farmers Market @ 25th street from 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Sept. 6: Labor Day Sept. 8: Rocky Mountain Barrel Racing Jackpot @ Golden Spike Riding Arena from 4:30 - 9:30 p.m. Free admission Sept. 9 - 11: Weber Remembers 9/11 Project @ The Weber County Fairgrounds.

The event is free admission and will include an interactive museum, a chance to speak with Utahns The Ogden Music Festival is a three-day outdoor event in uniform, booths to featuring bluegrass, folk, and Americana music share experiences and thoughts, as well as food trucks and activities for the kids.

SEPTEMBER

Sept. 1 ,15, & 29: Turn Pro Jackpots Barrel Race @ Golden Spike Riding Arena from 4 - 10 p.m. Free Admission Sept. 1: Country Dance @ Union Station Browning theater every Wednesday night from 8:30 - 10 p.m. at the Union Station in Ogden. Admission is $5.

Sept. 3 - 5: The 13th Annual Ogden Music Festival Presented by Ogden Friends of Acoustic Music @ Weber County’s Fort Buenaventura.

First Friday Art Stroll @ Historic 25th Street at 6 p.m.

LIBRARY EVENTS September

Sept. 2: Mount Ogden Brass Concert, all ages @ 6:30 p.m.

Sept. 13: A Personal History of the Didgeridoo with Randin Graves, all ages @ 6:30 p.m.

Sept. 16: Cottage Foods Licensing, ages 18+ @ 7 p.m.

Sept. 21: Utah Humanities Book

Sept. 18: Harvest Moon Celebration 2021 on Historic 25th Street from 12 - 8 p.m. Free admission Sept. 21: Catch 4 Ca$h Team Roping @ Golden Spike Riding Arena from 5:30 - 11:30 p.m. Free admission

OCTOBER Oct. 1: Historic 25th Street Car Show from 5 - 9 p.m.

Art Stroll @ Downtown Ogden from 6 - 9 p.m.

Oct. 4: The Great Ogden Art Hunt, Searching through local Ogden galleries and businesses for a hidden piece of art, and you could win $100! Visit ogden4arts.org Oct. 5: Catch 4 CA$H Team Roping @ Golden Spike Riding Arena from 5:30 p.m. - 11:30 p.m. Free admission Oct. 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17: Octoberfest @ Snowbasin from 12 - 6 p.m. A familyfriendly affair with activities, food, and, of course, brews for days.

Oct. 6: Rocky Mountain Barrel Racing Jackpot @ Golden Spike Riding Arena from 4:30 - 9:30 p.m. Free admission Oct. 13: Jazz at the Station (Union Station’s grand lobby) from 7 - 8 p.m.

Free Admission Rocky Mountain Barrel Racing Jackpot Golden Spike Riding Arena from 4:30 - 9:30 p.m. Free admission Oct. 31: Halloween

Sept. 22: Rocky Mountain Barrel Racing Jackpot @ Golden Spike Riding Arena from 4:30 - 9:30 p.m.

Sept. 25: National Hunting & Fishing Day

Festival & Weber Book Links: Meet the Author, Devi Lockwood, all ages @ 7 p.m.

Sept. 23: The Write Club, ages 18 and older @ 7 p.m.

Sept. 25: Discover the Stars Lanterns, Star Wheels, Telescopes, all ages @ 1 p.m.

October

Oct. 7: NASA Telescope Launch Party all ages @ 6 p.m.

Oct. 14: Character Makeup 101 ages 12-18 @ 6 p.m. Register

by calling 801-337-2674 Oct. 21: Chocolate: From Bean to Bar ages 18+ @ 7 p.m.

Oct. 25: Utah Humanities Book Festival & Weber Book Links - Meet the Author, Alix E. Harrow, ages 12+ @ 7 p.m.

Oct. 26: “I Be a Witch” with Great Bear Folk Theatre, all ages @ 7 p.m.

Oct. 27: The Forces of Flight with Hill Aerospace Museum, ages 6-12 @ 6 p.m.

Oct. 28: Spooky Storytelling with Great Bear Folk Theatre, all ages @ 6 p.m.

September-October 2021 | WeberCountyConnection.com 11

COMMUNITY

Make the Last Days of Summer Count!

BY THATCH ELMER

Summer is winding down as we find ourselves in the dog days of September, grasping every bit of sunlight out of every single day that we can.

Thatch Elemer posing with his beautiful steed.

REFLECTIONS OF A

cowboy

The most important thing I’ve learned this summer is to take advantage of opportunities that are provided to you. Make time for your family.

Have as much fun as you can in the moment.

It takes me back to summers when I was younger, and nothing mattered besides summer days. The neighbor kids and I would ride our bikes down the dirt road, stopping at each other’s houses to see which one had the best trampoline and best supply of Otter Pops. Summer nights still smell like arena dirt and sweaty saddle blankets from that old sorrel pony I used to ride, and summer mornings take me back to walking lambs in preparation for the county fair.

This summer has had a much different feel for me, with the realization that it is my last one at home before finishing high school and moving into adulthood. So, this summer, I’ve taken the time to make it count every day.

When the alarm clock rings at 5 a.m., it’s hard not to turn it off and roll back over, but the will to win the upcoming rodeo has kept me ambitious enough to wake up and practice my skills every single day. Man, has it paid off.

The most important thing I’ve learned this summer is to take advantage of opportunities that are provided to you.

Make time for your family.

Have as much fun as you can in the moment.

So, stop what you’re doing, pack up your family or friends, and do the things you told yourself you wanted to do when summer started. Catch a movie at the drive-in, roll the windows down and listen to your favorite songs, ride your favorite horse, catch a fish, watch the sunset — whatever you want to do with the last bit of summer we have. Make it count!

Thatch Elmer and partner Kelton Lindsay team roping at a high school rodeo 12 WeberCountyConnection.com | September-October 2021

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September-October 2021 | WeberCountyConnection.com 13

CITY UPDATES

Plain City Parks & Rec

Basketball Girls basketball registration is Sept 1st through Sept 30th WFFL Plain City Football Games start August 21st Flag Football Games start the last week of August

Senior Center Open

The Plain City Senior Center is open again for congregate meals. Reservations for meals must be made by Tuesday, 12 p.m. by calling 801-399-8393.

• Lunch is served on Wednesdays 11:30 to 12:30 • Blood Pressure clinics are held the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month • Pedicures are $10 (no polish) 3rd Wednesday of each month Other activities are coming.

City Election Plain City Municipal Election is November 2, 2021 Two candidates filed for Mayor: Jon Beesley Miles Robinson Two candidates filed for two council seats: Luigi Panunzio Jed Jenkins Do you know someone who needs to register to vote? Forms are available at the City Office, or go online at vote.utah.gov All registered Plain City residents will be mailed a ballot approximately 30 days before the election.

Plain City has a ballot drop box located in front of the City Office. It will be open 24/7 beginning October 1. No postage necessary.

If you don’t get a ballot in the mail, there will be voting assistance centers open on November 2 from 7 a.m to 8 p.m.

A list of voting assistance centers will be posted on our website: plaincityutah.org

REGISTER NOW FOR GIRL'S BASKETBALL! plaincity.sportsites.com

For more city info, go to plaincityutah.org

14 WeberCountyConnection.com | September-October 2021

A LOOK BACK

History of the Weber County Fair

BY JENNY GOLDSBERRY

T

his year was the 33rd anniversary of the Weber County Fair. However, the fairgrounds have been around much longer than that and hosted many gatherings before the first county fair in 1988. The county built the Ogden Livestock Coliseum in 1926, which served as the center for early events similar to what the fair does today "We’ve previously published an article about how the coliseum led to the Golden Spike Arena and is now the centerpiece to the fairgrounds."

The earliest contribution the county fair made to the community came even before the 1900’s. In 1855, officials built the tabernacle in Ogden, on the corner of Tabernacle Square at Washington Boulevard and 22nd Street. Today, a temple for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints sits in that same square. This original tabernacle’s construction included pine lumber from Ogden canyon and Strongs canyon. Then, they sawed the lumber at Farr’s Mill.

The walls were constructed of adobe, which Weber County manufactured. The completed building had a seating capacity of 1,200. By 1896, after two and a half decades of use, it needed remodeling. Unofficial county fairs provided funds for the remodeling.

"The building of the Weber County Fairgrounds is one of the most important things accomplished during the 1980’s."

In 1929, a few communities across the county adopted the 4-H Calf Club. The club encouraged young people to study and prepare calves for judging at the county fair. Not only do kids expense the purchasing of their animal, feed, and supplies, but they feed, train, and prepare their animals for showing. Today, they still have high participation rates. Now its coursework includes teachings kids as young as seven years old how to care for, communicate with, and ride horses.

This fair gives the youth an opportunity to demonstrate the skills they learn with the club, just as it did nearly 100 years ago. By the time the Weber County Fair became official, 4-H and Future Farmers of America joined together every year to put on the Junior Livestock Show and sell their animals. The money they make, unlike the funds talked about previously, go right to the youth.

Robert Hunter served on the Weber County Commission from 1981-1989. At the time, they were trying to attract tourists to the county. They began using the coliseum more. Its schedule got busier with more rodeos, livestock shows, and even car shows. Before Robert was chair, the county acquired some land from the Ogden Defense Depot. This depot had been selected by the U.S. Army as a general depot in 1935.

Later, as Hill Air Force Base grew, there was no need for as much land, so they gave some to the county. Then, with Robert as chair, the commission took that land and built the fairgrounds. According to historians, Richard C. Roberts and Richard W. Sadler, “The building of the Weber County Fairgrounds on lands acquired from the Ogden Defense Depot in the Harrisville area is one of the most important things accomplished during the 1980’s.” Fellow Commissioner William A. Bailey had the vision to lead the project, while Commissioner Roger Rawson supported him.

There was a season, however, where the county saw no fair. Naturally, during World War II, they couldn’t wrangle enough participants. It was estimated in 1942 that there were only 500 out of 1,693 Weber County farmers who worked their farms with no outside jobs. So, they discontinued the fair that year.

County fairs were spaces where prize animals and home creations could be displayed and awarded a prize. That’s still the case today, with live music and demolition derbies sprinkled in. The fairgrounds are an asset to the community and provide a diverse gathering place for many types of events.

September-October 2021 | WeberCountyConnection.com 15

COMMUNITY

JUNIOR LIVESTOCK PROGRAM: More than Just a Show

BY JENNY GOLDSBERRY

The animals sold at the this years 2021 Weber County Junior Livestock Auction for a Total of $704,350 plus $160,000 in boosts (donations directly to the youth) The Junior Livestock Show is an annual Parley Parker and his 4H hog Delta pose with their 4th place market division ribbon competition meant to teach kids how to raise animals. The youth organization, 4-H & FFA, prepares kids for the show every year. They believe kids “learn by doing.” Kids 4-H and FFA help learn quickly when they’re handed a lamb or piglet. Plus, the kids are youth learn how to motivated to do well, because whatever earnings they make selling their livestock, they get to keep themselves. Award-winning animals take care of their go on a lot of walks, not only for their health but to prepare them animals, raise them, to walk in the show. Animals are judged by their showmanship and their market value. and sell them at Laney Parker recently won 5th in her intermediate showmanship class and 3rd in her market weight class. As a result, her buyer paid $7.50/lb for her hog. She told us at Connection Publishing that she plans to save the money for now and put it towards college or a car.

However, the Junior Livestock Show at the Weber County Fair has become much more than a competition. Laney says she has made friends through the junior livestock program.

The legacy of Lindsy Westergard began at the show. She raised lambs alongside her brothers. She passed away suddenly in 2019 at the age of 11. Her livestock friends embraced her family at that time. Since

the livestock show.

then, the Westergards are committed to continuing in the program with their other children, perpetuating friendships to all who participate.

There were 401 animals sold at the last Weber County Junior Livestock Auction. Altogether, they brought in $704,350 plus $160,000 in boosts (donations directly to the youth) Weber County businesses support the youth of Weber County.

CONGRATS TO THE 2021 GRAND CHAMPION WINNERS: MARKET STEER Stockton Marriott MARKET HOG McKylie Rowser MARKET LAMB Jamie Elliott MARKET GOAT Jace Clark

16 WeberCountyConnection.com | September-October 2021

RESERVE CHAMPION WINNERS: MARKET STEER Gracelyn Ellis MARKET HOG Kaden Hatch MARKET LAMB Brackyn Davis MARKET GOAT Rylan Doak

community influencer Nominees - Congratulations to those who were nominated Cameron Cook, BDO Manager and Leasing Ogden Business Depot Heather Bailey, Riverdale Walmart AFCU Branch Manager America First Credit Union Chris Petersen, Country music singer, song writer and performer Diehart Productions Bailey Lefthand, Marketing & Communications Director Ogden Weber Chamber of Commerce Jami Furniss, Owner Moxie Weighted Blankets Elizabeth Najim, Museum Curator Syracuse Regional Museum Colton Lindsay, Real Estate Broker The WGR Real Estate Brokerage.

Dr. Justin Stevenson, Owner/D.C. Weber Spine and Joint Kassy Stegen, Office Manager, Operations, Financials Stegens Dr. Sequoia Earl, Owner/D.C. Simply Wellness Dr. Hailegh Emerson, Physician Tanner Clinic Alexa Romeo, Owner/Occupational Therapist Solei Rehab Jasmine Manley My Mind and Body Collective Mandy Hillman, HR Director SymbolArts Chris Zenger, Owner Great Harvest Bread

JD Casperson Sales Manager Master Home Services Dr. Marc Mitton, Physician Rocky Mountain Dermatology

Pablo Padilla, Owner JS Pro Finishes

Chase White, Owner White Diamonds Dr. Haleigh Emerson, Physician Tanner Clinic Jesse R. Western, Owner Hearing Improvement Selene Rodriquez, HR Manager Capstone Nutrition Tim Jackson, President and CEO United Way Shawn Iverson, Owner The Insurance Center Lewis Decker Maintenance Technician, Weber County Kristy Pack, Owner Pack Tax Josh Grow, Agent/Office Manager A-Insurance Braeden Jones, Owner/ Manager Dallas Green Melissa Miller, Youth Council Supervisor Plain City Jeff Hadley, Owner/Operator Timberland Custom Cabinetry Bryson Grow, Owner/ Operator BRG Construction Courtney Hadley, MRI Technologist Mckay Dee Hospital MRI Technologist Jordan Holmes, Owner/ Operator Rock Hard Construction Angie- Angie's, Owner/ Operator Kinder Academy

[in•floo•uhn•ser]

BY RYAN SPELTS

noun 1. a person who influences 2. a person who sha the power to influence many people .3 a member of a community who has garnered the trust and respect of fellow community members IN THIS ISSUE, we are excited to present to you a group of community influencers. If you are internet savvy, that

term has become more and more ubiquitous as brands the world over seek to get positive impact from an internet “influencer.” If you are less inclined to spend time on social media, this term might be less familiar. The way we define it is the people in our community who have a positive influence over others through their leadership, success, and desire to give back. These members of our community have been nominated by their peers as outstanding performers and leaders. Some are up-andcoming rising stars, and others are long established authorities.

The thing we have found as we have the unique opportunity to get to know both community and business influencers is that, among these folks, there is a sincere desire to do good. These spotlights have highlighted that desire in many of these influencers, from the choices people make regarding what they will do for work to the extra ways people give back and make an effort to make our community better.

September-October 2021 | WeberCountyConnection.com 17

Lo c a l Fea t ur e Agent with A-Insurance Agencies

J

Josh Grow

osh Grow was pursuing an internship with one of the large automotive manufacturers back East and realized that he couldn’t keep his mechanic job while leaving for a season. His dad, Roger, was in the process of buying A-Insurance at the time and offered him a job with the option to leave and come back if he wanted. He accepted and began working with clients before leaving for his internship. Josh enjoyed his time at Cummins but realized that he missed the face-to-face interaction he had with clients. With insurance, he

Building a personal client relationship is a passion.

CONTACT INFO

18 WeberCountyConnection.com | September-October 2021

was able to walk his clients through the challenges they faced when needing insurance and personally help them fix their problems.

Today, Josh runs the Kaysville office, with plans to eventually buy the business down the road when his father decides to retire. He and his staff call themselves the “Get it done” office, because of their efforts to get things done quickly and to just take care of business. Josh is a young business influencer who was nominated by a community member. When talking about Josh, Roger said, “He is smarter than me, has bigger muscles, and is driven with doctor smarts. He knows how to serve and loves it.”

ainsurance.com / (801) 695-9994

Lo c a l Fea t ur e Master Electrical Service

JD Casperson W

hen JD Casperson started as an electrician with Master Electrical Service, there were only three other guys on the team. Now, after 15 years, he’s a sales manager, and there are almost 50 employees. From small jobs to sudden emergencies, they’re the reliable local solution. They now provide electrical, HVAC, and duct cleaning services.

Master Electrical focuses on providing high-quality customer service, which is something that a lot of companies forget.

CONTACT INFO

Master Electrical focuses on providing high-quality customer service, which is something that a lot of companies forget. There is more to running a company than just doing electrical work. When someone calls, they answer the phone and then show up on time. JD trains his team to improve their electrical skills, on how to help clients, and how to best provide quality service. He makes sure they all know to do the job for the straightforward price they quoted. However, according to him, they’re great workers who are easy to manage.

In his free time, JD and his family ride and train horses for mounted shooting competitions.

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September-October 2021 | WeberCountyConnection.com 19

Lo c a l Fea t ur e Rocky Mountain Dermatology

Dr. Marc Mitton

D

r. Marc Mitton was born and raised in North Ogden, where he met and married his high school sweetheart. While attending medical school, he was diagnosed with melanoma. Having such a personal experience with skin cancer inspired him to do a medical rotation in dermatology. After only a few days, Dr. Mitton knew he had found the right field. The breadth, complexity, and visual nature of medical dermatology, combined with the opportunity to utilize his surgical skills to remove potentially harmful

Having such a personal experience with skin cancer inspired him to do a medical rotation in dermatology.

CONTACT INFO

skin cancer, are just a few of the reasons he fell in love with his work. After finishing his residency in July of this year, Dr. Mitton returned to Weber County with his wife and two kids to join the team at Rocky Mountain Dermatology.

When asked about his decision to join Rocky Mountain Dermatology, Dr. Mitton responded that the first thing that struck him about Rocky Mountain was how patientfocused the practice was. The staff at each office are skilled and compassionate and help to make each visit ideal, with special time and attention dedicated to addressing patient concerns. You can schedule appointments with Dr. Mitton at Rocky Mountain Dermatology's Washington Terrace, Marriott-Slaterville, or Brigham City locations.

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Lo c a l Fea t ur e The Insurance Center

S

Shawn Iverson

hawn Iverson has been a lifetime resident of Weber County and heavily involved in community events.

Shawn is passionate about his family, church, insurance, and helping kids achieve their goals. Over the past 25 years, Shawn has influenced hundreds of youths through Boy Scouts, coaching baseball and soccer, church groups, and talking with kids’ friends. His positive attitude is contagious. The team at The Insurance Center has taken on his culture with a friendly, professional smile and optimistic approach to ensure everyone has a memorable customer experience.

His positive attitude is contagious.

CONTACT INFO

Shawn started his insurance career in 1993, in Logan, UT. In 2020, The Insurance Center moved the corporate location from downtown Ogden to Farr West. The Insurance Center is an independent insurance agency that helps clients with ALL types of insurance. The personal lines team takes care of home, auto, umbrella, flood, and earthquake. The commercial lines team assists with risk management for liability, property, work comp, bonding, and commercial auto. The benefits team helps with life, health, and Medicare.

The Insurance Center is your local one-stop-shop for ALL your insurance needs. Reach out to The Insurance Center; watch them serve you as they have served in the communities in which they live.

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September-October 2021 | WeberCountyConnection.com 21

Lo c a l Fea t ur e Capstone Nutrition

A

Selene Rodriguez

ccording to coworkers, Selene Rodriguez is a “rockstar” and “tremendous leader.” Thanks to her efforts, Capstone Nutrition has not only recruited talent but also kept them around. As a result, she’s working tirelessly from the workday’s start to finish in order to be there for her employees.

Selene graduated from Weber State University with a bachelor’s in Human Resource Management. Now, she’s an HR Manager for Capstone. Her department focuses on those new to the manufacturing industry. With grants from the Governor’s Economic office and committing much of her

Selene is a “rockstar” and “tremendous leader.”

CONTACT INFO

22 WeberCountyConnection.com | September-October 2021

schedule, Selene developed an onboarding program, including a Manufacturing 101 crash course for new hires.

To complement the onboarding program, she facilitates key touch points after 30, 60, and 90 days of employment.

Then, she helps retain them by implementing an initiative geared towards empowering women to develop and grow in a male-dominated industry. Capstone’s recent acquisition by Innovations in Nutrition and Wellness opened the door to more positions. Since then, hardly anyone wanted to leave.

Instead, they stay and grow with the company.

Lately, Selene uses her spare time to pursue her MBA at WSU; however, she happily continues working full time because she knows leadership values the workforce.

“I know that it’s making a difference in people’s lives,” she said.

www.capstonenutrition.com / (801) 337-9400

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Lo c a l Fea t ur e Weber County Property Management

Lewis Decker

L

ewis Decker works for Weber County Property Management at the 12th Street correctional facility. If all the inmates have heat, air, and a flushing toilet, he is doing his job; however, Lewis gives more than that. He will always exchange a smile or ask how the inmates are doing, whether they are in the maximum or lowest level of security.

“Several have approached me when they’re released. I tell them I like seeing them out here instead of in there. It’s all about

"There are two important things, love yourself and love your neighbor."

being kind. You don’t know how they were brought up.”

Lewis sees how the trajectory of his life could have easily landed him in a similar situation, had he not been adopted when he was seven days old. His biological mother is deaf and developmentally delayed, and Lewis’ older sister had special needs. Doctors thought his case would be similar. His upbringing made all the difference. His dad was the guy who paid for others’ groceries. Lewis’s mom taught him to stay positive and look for the good. “Religious or not, there are two important things, love yourself and love your neighbor...I haven’t always lived that way, but the past three years working at the jail has really opened up my eyes.”

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Lo c a l Fea t ur e Dallas Green Farm & Home

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Braden Smith

raden Smith comes to work every day ready to work and to answer some pretty tricky home improvement questions. Dallas Green is the kind of store people come to for unconventional solutions to everyday problems.

Now, after over 17 years, Braden has helped all sorts of locals with their various problems as the West Haven store manager.

He established the bulk section in the parking lot roughly seven years

Dallas Green is the kind of store people come to for unconventional solutions to everyday problems.

CONTACT INFO

back. It’s set up with gravel, compost, bark, and more, which customers can get creative with. Once, when someone came in wanting some padding on his trailer for their duck boat, Braden cut them a piece of stall matting that fit perfectly.

Dallas Green opened his store in 1954. Today, his son, Korry Green, runs the company. Customers return again and again for that small family store feel. There are times when it’s more complicated to search the internet for home improvement tools. Instead, come to Dallas Green with a question and leave with a solution in your hand. Just like its loyal customers, you’ll find that the store’s relaxed environment is more enjoyable than a google search. You won’t even have to fight traffic to get there.

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September-October 2021 | WeberCountyConnection.com 25

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26 WeberCountyConnection.com | September-October 2021

COMMUNITY

Western Wishes

BY HAILEY MINTON

A

malee Done made a beeline to the horses when she first arrived at Double Ott Ranch. She was there to have her wish granted to become a rodeo queen through Western Wishes. A lot of people volunteered their time, resources, and talents to make the day special for her. Several local rodeo queens came and talked to her about what it was like to prepare for, compete in, and be a rodeo queen. First, she got her hair and makeup done in true rodeo queen fashion.

Amalee laughed and talked about being a rodeo queen and asked many questions about the ranch, the horses, and all the people in the room. Her eyes were filled with excitement, and she described it as the best thing that has ever happened to her. Afterwards, she dressed in a sparkling “We like to raise queening outfit and hat. They had a our wish kids up photoshoot so she could have pictures to autograph for the upcoming rodeo. After to be ambassadors the photo shoot, she had a riding lesson. of hope for other Western Wishes was founded in 1994 by kids… whatever Donnalyn Quintana. Rachel Bitton had needs to happen cancer as a child and was one of the first for these kids kids to be granted a wish. Today, she runs will happen.” the Utah Chapter of Western Wishes. It’s like Make-A-Wish Foundation, but they’re not affiliated. “We like to raise our wish kids up to be ambassadors of hope for other kids… We don’t grant a wish and walk away; we like to stay in contact and become a family.” The first wish kid in Utah wanted to talk with his favorite cowboy. The phone call lasted about a minute, but it made the biggest difference in this boy’s life. Rachel explained it’s easy to pass over and justify not having time, but people can have a big impact with just a little effort. The children who have wishes granted don’t necessarily have terminal illnesses. The foundation grants wishes for children who may have suffered from an accident, injury, disease, or any type of hardship. One family’s baby passed away from SIDS, and Western Wishes brought the older siblings very nice blankets that someone made to comfort them.

Rachel said, “One thing I’ve learned is whatever needs to happen for these kids will happen.” The plans to grant Amalee’s wish started with having a photoshoot, but the community came together to make the experience so much more than that. “People are so amazing… miracle after miracle happens. I stress myself into oblivion, but things really come together in the end. People step in and take care of things. It’s amazing to be a part of.” They’re always looking for kids to whom they can grant wishes.

Rodeo Queens Cardyn Clem, Slater Jones, Chelby Van Tassell, & Bradie Jill Jones surround Amalee.

Rachel Bitton & Amalee at the Miss Rodeo Utah Fashion show

Rachel Bitton & Kendal Jensen getting Amalee ready

If you think you know someone who could use a Western Wish granted, please contact Rachel Bitton at 801- 791-1867

September-October 2021 | WeberCountyConnection.com 27

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28 WeberCountyConnection.com | September-October 2021

COMMUNITY

DOIN' IT RIGHT

Outstanding Local Kids

BY KRIS BLANKMAN

Tayli Petersen

Rylan Doak

Tayli Petersen is a sweet and fun

Rylan Doak is a 15-year-old 4-H, farmer, wrestler, roper, and the best little big brother around, just to name a few of his activities. He lives on a small family farm in Warren, Utah. He is the youngest of three and a big help to his older brother who has special needs.

Rylan spends much of his time being a caretaker, role model, and friend to his big brother. And while that is impressive on its own, he has also learned how to balance his time to find his own identity and passions in life, one of which is farming. Rylan works for Jimmy Wayment on his farm. He has learned to drive multiple types of equipment as well as learning some of the original ways of working, such as moving cattle on horseback. He says he is amazed that he learns something new every day. A member of the ‘Winner’s Circle’ 4-H group, Rylan is working on two projects this year: one is a goat named Bruiser, and the other is a pig named Shelby. His biggest achievement in 4-H was last year, when he won Reserve Champion with his pig who had suffered a leg injury earlier in the season. This year is his biggest 4-H project yet; he is working with two very different animals. 4-H has taught him hard work and responsibility. He is working hard for success at the Weber County Fair.

15-year-old sophomore at Fremont High School. She likes to make people laugh by talking in different accents. She is the oldest of three children and the only girl. Her most liked subjects in school are math and health, and she hopes to pursue a future in the medical field.

This amazing young lady loves to play Tayli Petersen with 4-H project.

Photo by Kristin Scheer

soccer, and she just earned her place on the high school team. She likes to ride horses, camp, swim, and go boating.

She is a member of the 4-H group ‘Hold Your Horses’ in Marriot-Slaterville.

Tayli shares that 4-H has taught her patience, hard work, dedication, and respect. She says that it is preparing her to become a mom “because you don’t get a day off when you have a 4-H project”. Her most challenging 4-H experience was last year with her jumpy lamb “Leo”. As challenging as that experience was, it is now one of her most rewarding memories and experiences. This year, she is preparing for the Weber fair with a new lamb

Rylan Doak with 4-H projects.

Photo Credit Jamie Doak

named Kava, which is a name derived from two of her friends’ names. 4-H has made her want to work harder in her life. Tayli was a 4.0 student in junior high and received a Presidential Award for that achievement.

September-October 2021 | WeberCountyConnection.com 29

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www.childrensclassic.net 30 WeberCountyConnection.com | September-October 2021

Connection Publishing Annual

Our BIGGEST CONTEST of the year!

21

20

Contest We may feature your photo on our cover!

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Do you love taking photos?

Enter our contest for a chance to win a CASH PRIZE!

Popular Vote Wins:

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Publisher Vote Wins:

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Deadlines

SUBMIT your photo and VOTE by Sept 15th!

HOW TO ENTER YOUR PHOTO To enter the contest visit www.connectionpub.com/photocontest ARTWORK CAN BE SUBMITTED SEPTEMBER 1-15 Vote by September 15th.

This contest is for Weber County residents that receive a Connection magazine. Please upload your high resolution photo by September 15th, 2021. 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.

Entries and votes will be tallied and winners will be announced in the November/December issue of your magazine. Good Luck!

One vote per person, per day for the duration of the contest.

September-October 2021 | WeberCountyConnection.com 31

COMMUNITY Utah at the 2022 pageant. She said that watching each of the contestants form forever friendships and lend helping hands to each other throughout the week was an experience that she will never forget.

She will serve as Lady in Waiting until her reign starts January 1, 2022. At that time, she will follow in Kassadee’s footsteps, traveling the state of Utah and the United States, representing Utah and the sport of rodeo.

The culmination of that week-long pageant brought her to the fateful night of July 24th, 2021, where her successor would be chosen. The lights of the Ogden Pioneer Days Rodeo stadium shone down on a line of 14 beautiful cowgirls decked in rhinestones, sequins, and felt cowboy hats; one of those hats would be crowned shortly with the coveted Miss Rodeo Utah crown and the wearer would serve

She has already achieved many things in and out of the arena. She received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Utah and will resume law school after her reign is finished. She has worked as a rodeo reporter for The Cowboy Channel and is currently serving as the media director for the Utah Department of Food and Agriculture.

Little girls with dreams become WOMEN WITH VISION

BY KENDAL RAE JENSEN

K

K

assadee Jo Jones has made history as the only Miss Rodeo Utah to serve two consecutive years as the ambassador of the sport of rodeo for our state. She says this has given her unique experiences and opportunities that no other crown holder has encountered.

Her rodeo queen career started much differently than most. She knew she wanted to be a part of the sport but wanted to choose an event where she could spend equal amounts of time on and off the horse. She now laughs that she spends more time on a horse than anywhere else. She has made our state proud and represented us very well, appearing at more events and rodeos than any other Miss Rodeo Utah in our state’s history.

She is now preparing to represent Utah at the Miss Rodeo America 2022 pageant in Las Vegas, Nevada, this coming December. Through her hard work and preparation, she has learned many life skills that will serve her far beyond the crown.

She said that one of her most cherished memories from her reign has been serving as the current Miss Rodeo

as Lady in Waiting until the beginning of her reign in 2022. As Roger Mooney’s voice boomed through the loudspeakers, announcing the winner of each category, it became apparent just how fiercely competitive and closely judged each of the contestants were this year.

These talented young women competed in a grueling week-long pageant which consisted of prepared, impromptu, and extemporaneous public speaking, rounds of horsemanship competition, personal interviews, modeling, photogenics, and dozens of public appearances, including nightly rodeo performances, the MRU fashion show, the Special Kids Rodeo, and the Ogden Pioneer Days Parade. As the events of the week unfolded, their skills and beauty were on full display. For one of the ladies, her little girl dreams were soon to become reality.

As the announcer called the names of each runner up, tensions rose, tears welled in parents’ and supporters’ eyes and each of the girls clasped each other hand in hand…….and your Miss Rodeo Utah 2022 is……Bradie Jill Jones.

Bradie is the 26-year-old daughter of Bryce and Cara Jones of Henefer, Utah.

32 WeberCountyConnection.com | September-October 2021

Bradie also had an unorthodox start as a rodeo queen. At the age of 10, she had a traumatic horse accident and swore off riding. It wasn’t until 13 years later, as she was preparing to graduate college, that she recognized her dream of being a rodeo queen had never been realized, and she didn’t want to live with that regret. After much hard work and perseverance over the next three years, she won the crowns of Miss Rodeo Ogden 2019-20, Wilderness Circuit Rodeo Queen 2019-20, and now Miss Rodeo Utah 2022.

She hopes that she can be an inspiration to women of all ages and remind them that it’s never too late to chase your dreams.

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September-October 2021 | WeberCountyConnection.com 33

TWENTIETH ANNIVERSARY 2011-2021

It's been 20 years; do we still

REMEMBER?

BY HAILEY MINTON

Local firefighters reflect on how the terrorist attack changed America and how we have changed since.

“Every magazine had flags on them. There were all kinds of people who died trying to help out. Everything was focused on being united. We need to get back to that,” Logan said.

Logan Layne is a Weber County resident from Taylor and a firefighter with the Layton Fire Department. We stopped by the station where he works and chatted with him and the other firefighters. We reflected on the fact that it has been 20 years since the terrorist attack on the Sept. 11, 2001, and we talked about the changes that have occurred since then.

Roxanne Baumen said there are some amazing things that happen when she goes to help with disasters.

There is property destruction, lives lost, disruption in lives, and income lost. “It’s sad, but the coolest thing is watching everyone come together, especially on the civilian side…Disasters remind us what’s important.”

Logan was serving an LDS mission in Texas, and he and his companion were volunteering at a hospital when it happened.

Their apartment was right next to the World Trade Center in Dallas, so it left a level of uncertainty about their own future.

“We were working in the ER, translating, and we could see what was happening on the TV there.” Later, he remembered going to the grocery store, and everything turned to America.

Roxanne and her dog, Cole, are a part of the Utah Task Force One team. She is one of 10 teams in Utah that are mobilized any time there is a situation that calls for people to be found.

She wasn’t involved at the time, but the Utah Task Force went to New York and helped with the rescue efforts. Cole came from the Search Dog Foundation, an organization that takes rescued dogs, gives them professional training, and

34 WeberCountyConnection.com | September-October 2021

"EVERYTHING WAS FOCUSED ON BEING UNITED. WE NEED TO GET BACK TO THAT.”

partners them with firefighters. Finding the person is essential in rescuing. A dog’s speed and accuracy in finding people is unparalleled, and dogs like Cole were put to work at Ground Zero after the attack. The search pile was a mountain of debris about eight stories high, and there were about 400 working dogs at the scene. In all, there were 23 survivors who were rescued after the building collapsed. Search dogs like Cole have boldness, drive, energy, strength, agility, and focus. Typically, labs, golden retrievers, border collies, and mixes of these breeds are the most likely to have these qualities. Cole is a mix between a black lab and a basset hound and will likely retire in 2023.

We immediately have a relationship that is positive, simply because of this. I think there were so many things back then that you could just let things go and think ‘oh right on, you’re an American or you’re my neighbor, cool, we’re friends,’ and the benefit of the doubt was given… I can’t think of a time when we weren’t treated like we were important, and we were making a difference.” He explained that he almost wished everyone could be treated like they were a firefighter.

Tyler Kilmer was in 4th grade at the time, and his grandfather and father were volunteer firefighters from his home town in Payson, Utah. “It was impactful to see their thoughts and how they’ve gone through the service and see the changes throughout the years that have come from it.” Ben DeJong didn’t get involved in the fire service until four years after the attack, but he noticed a change in firefighter’s level of preparedness. “We never thought, in a million years, that could happen intentionally.” He explained it opened everyone’s eyes to not write off the impossible. “There’s not a playbook for what we need to be prepared for. As far as training, it has affected us on another level that we can’t really measure.”

A great way to remember what happened that day is to attend the Weber Remembers 9/11 Project at the Weber County Fairgrounds. All the events are free! The exhibit is an interactive museum experience which uses 304 photo boards that were created to help visitors walk back in time. The time frame covers the late 1990s through the day of the terrorist attack and then into the response recovery time period.

He explained the public’s feeling towards firefighters is something that has stayed pretty consistent over the years.

“They don’t know us, they don’t know my political views, they don’t know my opinions on life, but they see the uniform and see the big shiny red engine, and they’re drawn to that.

Tyler said being a firefighter involves getting the job done and fixing the problem. Roxanne explained the danger inherent in their work stays in the back of their minds; it doesn’t have a place in the front of their minds. “Even as a mom, if you see your kid get hurt, you’re going to react and take care of that kid.” It isn’t until you look back on it later that you realize how close you were to a really bad situation.

Weber Remembers 9/11 Project

There will be 19 television screens showing different media coverage and videos and 30 different areas of directional sound. The North parking lot will have an exhibit of emergency and military vehicles, where you can take pictures and talk with the professionals.

Live local entertainers will be featured on a stage at the west end of one of the exhibit halls. They need 400 volunteers over the course of the three days, so if you’re interested in helping, visit majorbrenttaylor.com.

MEMORIAL EVENTS Sept. 9th & 10th

9 a.m. - 1 p.m.: 9/11 Exhibit Field Trips @ Weber County Fair Grounds 4 p.m. - 8 p.m.:Fairgrounds Exhibit Free & Open to the Public @ Weber County Fairgrounds. This includes the 9/11 Project Immersive Museum, community service exhibitors, “Touch a Truck” parking lot exhibit, and live entertainment.

Sept. 11th

6:46 a.m.: Early Morning Fire Memorials @ Roy Fire Station No. 31 @ Riverdale Fire Station No. 41 @ Weber Fire Station No. 61 in Farr West

10 a.m.: Fairgrounds Exhibit Free & Open to the Public @ Weber County Fairgrounds. This includes the 9/11 Project Immersive Museum, community service exhibitors, “Touch a Truck” parking lot exhibit, and live entertainment.

Fire Ride Motorcycle Ride @ Salt Lake City to the Ogden Amphitheater fallenfirefightermemorial.org 12 p.m.: Firefighter Memorial Ceremony @ America’s Fallen Firefighter Memorial Park Next to the Ogden Amphitheater 8 p.m.: Fairground Exhibit Closes September-October 2021 | WeberCountyConnection.com 35

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BUSINESS Barn Werx What Can We Build for You?

BY RYAN SPELTS

Barn Werx are the professionals in Utah that you have been looking for when it comes to picking the right company to build your new pole building.

INFO Business: Pole Buildings 1678 S. 1900 W., Suite C Ogden, UT 84404 (385) 244-8827

BarnWerx.com

Y

ou know that building you have always wanted? Barn Werx knows it too, and they can build it for you.

The company was started by the owners of Messerly Concrete after they were approached by one of their employees, Scott Simonson, who thought there might be a need for a pole building company. Scott thought it would keep their employees busy when they had downtime in the concrete business. The owners, Todd and Lisa Messerly, raise and ride performance horses; they thought it would be a good addition to their company and a natural extension of their lifestyle.

Messerly Concrete has been in business since 1966.

Todd and Lisa purchased the company from Todd’s father in 2008. With a focus on maintaining a good reputation in the industry and delivering on their promises, Messerly Concrete has continued to grow. Barn Werx quickly became busy enough that it was not an

38 WeberCountyConnection.com | September-October 2021

option for it to be just the side work when the concrete crews had down time, so it became its own entity.

Today, Tabatha Udy is the General Manager of Barn Werx, and when asked, Lisa Messerly became emotional regarding her efforts. She said Tabatha goes above and beyond to make sure people get what they want and that they put the personal touch into everything they do.

Barn Werx specializes in custom pole buildings and can really fit almost any need a customer has. When a client needs a building, they sit down and brainstorm everything a customer wants. Starting with the size, they move on to the look and feel, and then add the finishing touches. There is no limit on the creativity they can utilize to fit a client’s needs.

Buildings they commonly make are roof-only buildings, agriculture buildings, garages, barns, storage buildings, workshops, and arenas.

They often build custom structures to fit unique needs as well. Today, a building growing in popularity are what they call barndominiums. These structures are designed to look like a barn or storage building on the outside, but inside, they are actual living areas or at least partial living areas. Currently, the most common design is

for the growing vacation rental market. People love to rent these out for family reunions because they can house everyone together and even have a bathroom for each bedroom.

Messerly Concrete is known for doing quality work, and that reputation carries over to Barn Werx as well. The time it takes to build a pole building is much less than a traditional wood-framed building, a fact that their customers love. Plus, there are so many options, people can get anything they want: from a very utilitarian look to fancy and beautiful, insulated options with custom windows, cupolas, facia and soffit…and all can be made to be extremely beautiful. The foundation of these buildings features independent concrete foundation around each pole, significantly decreasing the build time.

There are only two steps: one is to let them know what you want, so they can put together a design for you. The other step is development or putting up the building. Yes, it is that easy. If you are considering a building on your property, Barn Werx might be the perfect answer for your perfect building!

COMMUNITY Youth Volunteers Needed!

The Fremont 5 CTC (Communities That Care) coalition is a group of community members like yourself, parents, teachers, local businesses, key leaders, and organizations coming together to strengthen youth and families in the community to prevent harmful behaviors towards health and wellbeing.

As a coalition, we serve the Fremont Cone, which includes all of the schools in the geographical area that transfer students into Fremont High School. This includes residents from Hooper, West Haven, Plain City, Farr West, MarriottSlaterville, and unincorporated areas in west Weber County.

Our Vision: Fremont 5 is a thriving community that empowers youth through partnerships, opportunities, and services in order to support productive and confident youth.

TO LEARN MORE about the Fremont 5 CTC, visit our website or find us on Facebook!

Website: utahprevention.org/ coalitions/fremont-5-ctc-coalition

Join the Fremont 5 CTC today! We are currently looking for youth volunteers to serve on our youth workgroup. This is a great opportunity to give back to our community, to build your resume, and to have FUN! If you know anyone who would like to get involved, please contact fremont5ctc@ gmail.com.

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September-October 2021 | WeberCountyConnection.com 39

COMMUNITY

DIY Pantry Rails

BY RACHEL BITTON

We are always tackling a project around here. Whether it’s making bad animal decisions or building something new, we always have something to do. My husband

fe r a l

FARMHOUSE

really should learn to run far and fast when I bust out the measuring tape. Bless that man for all he must figure out for me — like the time we brought home two old grain silos from East Layton to make an outdoor kitchen or when I had to have that 25-foot-tall antique windmill for a yard decoration that required a crane, twice.

I get to dream, "My husband and my husband has to actually really should run figure out how to far and fast when make it work.

I bust out the

I don’t know why, measuring tape." but when you get to adulthood, some of the best things in life are having a favorite spatula and a pretty pantry. I put a lot of time and thought into designing the pantry in our home – from the antique barn door we were gifted from my husband’s grandma to the rolling library ladder I spent months shopping for. I wanted this pantry to be highly functional but also beautiful. Yay adulthood!

After the earthquake in 2020, I knew our pantry shelves needed a bit of an upgrade. I spend most of August and September canning and freeze drying all the goods that come out of the garden. It works well because my husband knows how to buy chips, lots of chips, to eat all the red and green salsas I make. “It’s a team effort,” he says as he happily eats chips and salsa every Sunday afternoon.

To repay me for my salsa-making efforts, I decided I wanted rails on some of the pantry shelves to save all my hard work, in case of another earthquake. My food organization mentality is “if I can’t see it, I won’t use it.” So, I requested copper pipe rails after seeing someone else use them on a bookshelf. I had some copper baskets in the pantry, so I knew the copper would match perfectly.

We bought ½” copper pipe from A PRETTY the plumbing section of a home SOLUTION improvement store and found copper Copper closet rod hangers on Amazon to plumbing complete this project. The total cost pipe was an was under $60. Not only did it pretty economical up the pantry, but it will also help keep way to secure my canning jars safe. Special thanks to canning jars. my neighbor, Cheryl, for helping with the photos. Now, onto the next project…I wonder if my husband will add a chandelier to the pantry?

September-October 2021 | WeberCountyConnection.com 41

RECIPES

DUTCH OVEN FAVORITES Camping or at home, this wonder pot can be used to make a variety of dishes. We have some tried-and-true ones for you to try!

What is it?

A Dutch oven is a thickwalled, lidded pot made with seasoned cast iron.

This type of sturdy cooking vessel has been used for centuries to slow-cook soups, stews, sauces, and breads. Dutch ovens come in cast iron, enameled, aluminum, and ceramic varieties.

Triple Berry Cobbler Recipe

BY CRYSTAL RAPPLEYE

8 Cup Fresh mixed berries (strawberries, Blackberries, Raspberries) ½ cup sugar 1 white cake mix 1 can lemon lime soda

42 WeberCountyConnection.com | September-October 2021

1 stick butter Heat oven to 375. Rinse berries. Slice strawberries.

Toss with sugar. Pour berries into a 15" dutch oven.

Dump cake mix on top. Pour can of soda over the cake mix. Do not stir. Slice butter into 8 even pieces and place on top. Bake for 35-45 minutes. Optional serve with whipped cream or ice cream.

(Recipes continued on page 44)

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Who makes the best burger in town?

How about the best fries?

Who is the best Realtor, Insurance Agent, or Grocery Store?

Various Styles and Designs

Pole Buildings

Look in our next issue for how you can nominate your favorite businesses!

We want to hear from you!

Voting starts Nov. 1st!

Winners announced in our March 2022 issue!

What can we build for you?

Call for your FREE ESTIMATE today!

(385) 244-8827 or (801) 389-4579 www.BarnWerx.com 1678 South 1900 West, STE C · Ogden, Utah 84401

September-October 2021 | WeberCountyConnection.com 43

RECIPES Dutch Oven Mountain Dew Chicken Recipe adapted from www.dutchovendude.com.

If your oven hasn’t been calibrated lately, or your roast is on the smaller side, check for doneness at 5-6 hours. Each oven and each roast size vary. More marbling i.e., less meat, could cook quicker. The roast should fall apart when tested with a fork.

BY KRISTINA CASE

This recipe has been modified to cook on the grill instead of the traditional way with charcoal, so you can enjoy it when you’re not camping. It’s one of my kids’ favorite Dutch oven recipes!

1 lb. bacon 1 gallon Zip-loc bag with 1 cup flour & 2 tbsp. Lawry’s 4 chicken breasts, cut in half 4 potatoes, diced 1 bag baby carrots 1 large onion, chopped 1 can Mountain Dew soda ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese Preheat 12-inch Dutch oven by placing on pre-heated grill at 400 degrees for 10 minutes. Chop bacon into 1" pieces and add to Dutch oven, then chop onions and add to bacon. Cook until onions are soft and bacon is crispy. Shake chicken breasts in baggie of flour to coat; cook in bacon grease to brown, about 5 minutes, turning a couple times. Add carrots, potatoes, and Mountain Dew, and cook about an hour with lid on. Move chicken to top and sprinkle cheese over the chicken. Cook an additional 10 to 15 minutes.

Traditional Dutch oven cooking method: Cover with lid and cook at 350 degrees for 45 minutes with ¾ of coals on lid.

Kendal's Dutch Oven Pot Roast

BY KENDAL JENSEN

This recipe can be made in a traditional Dutch oven, or an enamled cast iron cooking pot.

3 lbs. beef chuck roast 1 packet dry ranch dressing mix 4 cups of beef stock or 1 Tbsp of beef base (I prefer Minor’s) with 4 cups of hot water 2 yellow onions, cut into chunks 2 Tbsp minced garlic 1 stick of salted butter 2 cups of carrots, cut into chunks 3 cups of russet or red potatoes, cut into chunks I use some salt and pepper and a little oil for searing.

Season roast liberally with salt and pepper on all sides, rubbing seasoning into the meat. Put Dutch oven on the stove and heat about 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sear roast on all sides in olive oil until golden brown. Deglaze Dutch oven with beef stock. Put roast, carrots, potatoes, onions, and garlic in Dutch oven with roast. Sprinkle dry ranch seasoning over roast. Place the cube of butter on top of the roast. Replace the Dutch oven lid and put it in an oven. You can bake it as low as 200 degrees for 8 hours.

If you’d like to cook it faster, you can roast it at 300 degrees for 4-5 hours.

44 WeberCountyConnection.com | September-October 2021

Spaghetti Squash Casserole Adapted from Lillie Eats and Tells

BY HAILEY MINTON

1 medium to large spaghetti squash ½ medium onion diced 1 lb. lean ground turkey 1-2 tsp salt ½ tsp pepper 2 tsp Italian seasoning 1 tsp garlic powder 1 14.5-oz can of diced or stewed tomatoes 5 cloves garlic 2-3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped 2 cups (or more!) of cauliflower cream sauce or marinara sauce ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Cut spaghetti squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle a touch of salt, and bake in a preheated oven of 400 degrees for 40 minutes. While the squash is baking, heat a large pan with oil and add onions and salt. Cook until tender. Add ground turkey and salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Add tomatoes and the 5 cloves of garlic and cook for 3 minutes. Add spinach and cook until wilted. When the squash is baked and has cooled a bit, scoop the squash into a Dutch oven and add the meat mixture, sauce, and chopped basil. Mix thoroughly and smooth the top when you’re finished. Top with the cheese, place the lid on top, and bake in your oven at 350 degrees for 15 - 20 minutes.

Cauliflower Cream Sauce 8 cloves garlic, minced 1 Tbsp butter 5-6 cups cauliflower florets (about 1 ½ heads) 1 cup chicken stock 1 tsp salt ½ tsp pepper ½ cup milk Steam the cauliflower 7-10 minutes or until tender.

Sauté butter and garlic in a small pan. Transfer cauliflower, the butter and garlic mixture, salt, pepper, and milk to a blender. Blend until smooth.

Easier Cleanup!

These handy disposable liners will save a lot of scrubbing and work great for cakes and bread recipes.

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ART CONTEST

WINNERS

Congratulations to our winners and thank you to everyone who submitted their art!

POPULAR CHOICE: Marla Nelson "They shall mount up with wings as Eagles."

They shall run and not be weary; and they shall walk and not faint: Utah Pioneers.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

PUBLISHERS CHOICE: Emily Meldrum "Pioneer leaders climbing Ensign Peak to view the valley and lay out plans for the new city."

September-October 2021 | WeberCountyConnection.com 45

FASHION CONNECTION

Utah Western Fashion Week

BY ELIZABETH BECKY HOUGAARD

O

ne of our favorite times of the year is Pioneer Days! The whole week of Ogden’s Pioneer Days celebrations are great for viewing western fashion, from the Horse Parade to the Miss Rodeo Utah events, including an amazing fashion show! In five big nights of PRCA Rodeo, you will see some of the most fun, craziest, interesting, and gorgeous outfits. Some people add a little western to their normal summer clothes, such as a cowboy hat or a pair of cowboy boots.

In the heat we have here this time of year, it’s common to see shorts and a tank top or t-shirt. Adding a hat and boots or a western image on their shirt helps people to stay cool and yet have fun dressing a little western.

FROM GOWNS TO FRINGE Western Fashion week highlights: lightweight kimono cover ups (above), silver accent like in the belt (right) and lots of beautiful gowns for all ages in the Miss Rodeo events.

Need to find something?

If there are things you saw that you’d like to find, let me know!

RockinHH@gmail.com

46 WeberCountyConnection.com | September-October 2021

There will always be the traditional cowboy/cowgirl outfit of bootcut jeans and a western shirt, buckle, cowboy hat, and boots, but there are some that dress up and go all out, which I love! Some wore a dress or a skirt with cowboy boots and a western style belt. Flowers and serape prints were light and pretty.

I loved that fringe was still popular, and it just seems that it adds a western look to anything. Vests with the long fringe were seen a lot, as were animal prints in tops and long lightweight kimono cover ups.

I also saw some great dresses in denim!

We can’t forget the jewelry.

Silver and turquoise are what I saw the most, and lots of layering of necklaces and bracelets. Besides cowboy boots, I loved the very popular short western boots that many are wearing now; the western styles of sandals and flip flops are still very popular.

I love how Pioneer Days bring out so many people in all kinds of western styles all their own. To the cowboys and cowgirls competing, working, and performing at the events and wearing your traditional western clothing, thanks for keeping those traditions and great looks going. To the people who dress western all the time but bring it up a notch into some dressier outfits and great new looks, what a fun way to get new fashion ideas. To those who just add a little western for the week for the Rodeo, I thank you. You all make western fashion fun!

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