Spring 2024

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

Summer 2024 Classes & Camps Guide

• From Sewing Machine to Rodeo Queen

• Vintage Market Days

Adds a VIP Charitable Event to Spring Market

• Spring Break in Cache Valley

SPRING 2024

COVER STORY:

The Inspirational Story of Rescue 1 Studios and Screen 33

Two Idaho State University graduates, Nepalese brothers Roshan Kumar and Sanjay Sah, started their first restaurant in Pocatello in August 2018 to introduce authentic Indian and Nepali cuisine in their community. It was warmly welcomed! After visiting Logan, they fell in love with the community and decided to expand, opening their second restaurant on Logan's Main Street in 2021. They now also offer authentic Indian groceries at their new grocery store, Daisy Bazaar, located inside their Logan restaurant. They love being part of Cache Valley's community and are proud to serve authentic, fresh Nepali and Indian cuisine daily. It is all about food and family!

Please bring the physical copy of the coupon to enjoy 10% off on our delicious food. This coupon is not valid for alcoholic beverages. Use at any of our three locations. Coupon valid until Dec, 2024.

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

As we present this spring issue of Cache Valley Family Magazine, featuring our Classes and Camps Guide, I find myself reflecting on the myriad extracurricular activities that have enriched the lives of our children over the years. It's a journey marked by gratitude for the many mentors and instructors who have played important roles in shaping their growth and passions.

From coaches to dance instructors and music teachers to directors, these dedicated individuals have woven themselves into the fabric of our children's lives, imparting not just skills but also invaluable lessons in confidence, curiosity, and perseverance. They've motivated our kids to strive for excellence and reach beyond their perceived limits, instilling in them a sense of determination.

Last summer, my daughter had the privilege of participating in Cache Theatre Company’s summer camp production of Lion King, Jr. I was in complete awe of the program, from organization and coordination to their willingness to make room for every child who wanted to participate and the incredible costumes and sets.

What truly moved me, though, happened at the final performance. As the show began and the young girl playing a lead role began to sing, her microphone wasn’t working properly. She continued singing and finished the opening number. It could have been chalked up to a great learning experience of powering through and letting the show go on, but instead, the

director came on stage and instructed the sound and light crew to start again. She wanted to ensure that this girl, who had worked so hard to learn her part, got her moment to shine, and she absolutely shined!

I later told the director how neat I thought that was, and she said, “Well, it was just the right thing to do.” It was a gesture of empathy and compassion that spoke volumes about the profound impact these mentors have on our children's lives.

To all the directors, coaches, teachers, and instructors who pour their hearts and souls into nurturing our children: Thank you! Thank you for spending hours of your own free time working with kids and never giving up on them — even those kids who look like they’re never going to get it. Thank you for sending emails and texts to keep distracted parents updated. Thank you for responding to our questions, even though you already sent the same information in your update.

As the saying goes, it takes a village to raise a child, and I am sincerely grateful to have found our village right here in Cache Valley.

With heartfelt appreciation, xo

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MAKING A DIFFERENCE

National Award Finalist Eric Duersch is “Key” at Millville Elementary... pg 9

BEST-IN-CLASS YOUTH SPOTLIGHT

From Sewing Machine to Rodeo Queen... pg 14

TECH SAFE

Governor Cox’s Plea to Schools... pg 17

COVER STORY

Bridging Creativity and Community Service: The Inspirational Story of Brent Harding's Rescue 1 Studios and Screen 33 ... pg 26

FAMILY MATTERS

Practical Mental Health Help for Teens and Parents... pg 30

EDUCATION UPDATE

Cache County School District

A Mathematical Mindset: Why Children Need to Develop Number

Sense and How Parents Can Help... pg 34

Logan City School District

Tuna, Dog Poop, and Initiative... pg 35

GOOD NEIGHBORS

First-Time Homebuyers Assistance Program Aims to Help More Utahns Become Home Owners... pg 42

FEATURED

Clear the Clutter... pg 12

Calm the Evening Chaos... pg 20

Vintage Market Days Adds a VIP Charitable Event to Spring Market... pg 23

Spring Break in Cache Valley... pg 24

Who Doesn't Like Flowers?... pg 32

The Power of Presence: How Family Dinners

Boost Communication... pg 36

Understanding Night Vision... pg 39

Make A “5 Senses” Stress-Busting Kit For Your Kids... pg 40

Structuring Downtime... pg 44

2024 Classes and Camps Guide... pg 47

SUMMER RIDING CAMPS

SUMMER EQUINE CLASSES

Pull up your boot straps and come on out to TriStar Ranch for our Summer 2024 Riding Camp. This camp will be from 9am to 2pm. Lunch is included. Students will learn about the different riding disciplines, riding safety, horsemanship, identifying tack and how to tack up a horse, groom, and best of all ride horses!

PRICE $125

Offering Kid Camps (Ages 8 to 12)

Offering Teen Camps (Ages 13 to 17)

SUMMER GAME CAMPS

It’s Time to Play! Come on out to our Horsing Around Game Camp. This camp will be from 9am to 2 pm. Lunch is included. In this camp students will play multiple unmounted horse games including Live Action Horse-Opoly, relay races, and more!

PRICE $75

Ages 7 to 12

CRAFT DAYS

Come on out for three fun hours of making horse related crafts! Crafts will be catered to the different age groups. Ages 5 to 11 (Parents are welcome to participate with their child if they would like) and 13 to 17 Pricing includes the supply fee.

PRICE $45

SAVE THE DATE! JUNE 1ST 11:00 TO 4:00

Games

Prizes

Crafts

Bounce House

Vendors

Pony Rides

Face Painting

Baby Horses

Puppies

Raffles

AND MORE!

GENERAL ADMISSION $2 EA.

Covers all games, bounce house, & face painting.

SILVER ADMISSION $5 EA.

Covers General Admission plus a craft.

GOLD ADMISSION $10 EA.

Covers Silver Admission and a pony ride!

Veterans and their families receive free general admission. Thank you for your service!

EQUINE DEVELOPMENT - JUNE

Three-week course that covers the growth of a horse from embryo to seniors. Students will learn about the physical and psychological changes through the horse’s lifespan. At the ranch, we will have pregnant horses and horses from newborn to 19 years old for students to learn and observe first handed.

EQUINE TRAINING - JULY

Three-week course that covers how to work with horses from foals to seniors. Students will learn different techniques that go into working with the various ages. In this class students will learn how to present themselves with calm assertiveness, maintain boundaries, and give/ receive respect from the horse.

BUILD YOUR DREAM RANCH - AUG.

This class is 3 hours filled with knowledge and fun! It will engage your child’s imagination and creativity by having them design their own dream ranch while learning about all the different aspects that go into owning/managing a ranch. Course material is catered to the appropriate age groups.

GROUP CLASSES: $25/SESSION

CUSTOM INDIVIDUAL CLASS: $45/SESSION

National Award Finalist Eric Duersch is “Key” at Millville Elementary

Millville Elementary School is more than a building of brick and mortar. Every school day it becomes a bustling community where children learn in a family-like environment; where flowers bloom each spring, Millie the bearded dragon is part of the faculty, and lunchroom DJs — a.k.a., the head custodian and principal — play tunes most Fridays.

Eric Duersch, Millville Elementary School’s head custodian will tell you the school’s success is due to amazing teachers and administrators, excellent students, and the dedicated staff he works with who are like family. Though all that is true, a closer look uncovers the fact that Eric Duersch is a special part of the school.

The head custodian for nine years at Millville Elementary, Eric was recently honored for consistently going above and beyond in his work through a nation-wide competition. He was named a finalist in the Tennant Corporation’s 5th-annual Custodians Are Key contest.

TARA BONE contributing writer

Eric is modest about the award and simply describes himself as a “Valley Man.” He was born and raised in Logan and currently lives in Wellsville. He says he learned to love working outdoors and gardening in the Cache Valley soil from his father and grandfather.

Eric’s father taught biology at Logan High for 37 years, his father-in-law was a teacher at Mountain Crest, and his wife has spent a career educating Cache Valley’s children and currently works as an instructional coach for Cache County School District. He says education is “just what family does.”

Eric has taken his wide range of knowledge and applied it to every aspect of the school. He’s planted bulbs and at least 12 trees on the grounds and even brings the flowers in for the school office. He noticed students were getting muddy on the playground playing kickball, so he dug out and installed a sports area on a lower field where the kids play pickleball, softball, and wiffle ball. He adds that he’s even played ball with the kids.

Eric’s involvement with the school doesn’t stop there. He tutors in the school’s afterschool program, has taught STEM classes during the school’s summer program, and each year renews his food handlers permit so he can help at lunch if needed. He cares for the school’s pet bearded dragon, Millie, and offers classroom presentations about her. He even coordinates a community metal recycling program he started that raises funds for the school.

Eric’s proactive, can-do attitude is evident in an appreciation dinner he started. A few years ago, he wanted to thank maintenance staff who work at the school throughout the year, so he started hosting a meal. It’s grown to include all the district’s full-time custodians, and now includes all district staff. Last year he smoked 90 pounds of meat for the dinner to say, “thank you.”

continued on next page...

From tutoring in Millville Elementary School’s afterschool program, to coordinating a community recycling program and creating fun experiences for students, Eric Duersch is a critical part of the Cache Valley school.

... continued from previous page

In turn, Angela Justesen, a 4th-grade teacher at Millville Elementary, wanted to say “thank you” to Eric. Last December while scrolling through social media she came across the award from Tennant, a company headquartered in Minnesota that manufactures cleaning tools and supplies. The Custodians Are Key Award honors K-12 custodians from the United States and Canada who are going above and beyond. She knew Eric fit that description.

“Not only is Duersch an amazing custodian that keeps our school looking immaculate,

but he is an important contributor to the education of our students too. He helps kids who need extra help as well as a positive adult example in their lives,” Angela said. “The students recognize him as a trusted adult at the school they can interact with. They know he cares about them. He looks for creative ways to help our struggling students learn and have fun while learning. He truly is KEY and a power of good at our school!”

It was no surprise to Angela or anyone at Millville Elementary when out of nearly 1,400 award nominations, Eric was named one of the 12 finalists. Eric and the other finalists received a $500 award. The grand prize winner

will be announced in May. The only person who didn’t expect the accolades was Eric. “I was surprised,” Eric said. “I don’t feel I’m deserving of it. I’m just doing my job.”

Of his reaction, Angela said “He was in disbelief. He was excited and got tears in his eyes.”

Until the final award winner is selected, Eric will go about his work. He says he’s excited to create a giant 8’ X 15’ March Madness bracket once again for the entire school and get the grounds ready for summer. He enjoys his work and sums it up with, “I try to make it a happy place, and I love being around the kids.”

Clear the Clutter

CONNIE GOATES

owner, All In Order Professional Organizing

Isn’t spring rejuvenating? There is something about the tulips breaking through the thawing dirt and the spring sun warming me up that makes me excited: I’m excited to open my windows and get some fresh air. I’m excited to rake the grass and turn the dirt in my yard. I’m excited to do some spring cleaning in my home.

Historically, spring cleaning meant removing the winter coal and soot that accumulated during the dark, cold months. But this spring, it’s time to clear the accumulated clutter that is taking over our homes.

Clutter includes unnecessary, unloved, and unused items that take our time and energy and affect us more than we realize. Clutter increases negative emotions such as stress, confusion, lack of focus, irritability, depression, and more. Psychologist Mark Travers wrote, “Reducing clutter minimizes distractions, allowing your brain to

concentrate on more important tasks at hand … The mental rejuvenation that comes from decluttering is clear evidence of the link between our physical surroundings and cognitive function.”

So, let’s do it! Let’s get rid of some clutter! Get some mental rejuvenation to be more efficient, focused, happier, and feel more in control of your surroundings. You can do this!

First off, start small. Start with the junk drawer in your kitchen or under your bed. Take everything out … yes, everything! Sort all the items into different piles: keep, trash, donate, and relocate.

KEEP items that you use regularly, love, and need. Keep items that bring you joy, make you smile, or are helpful. Keep clothes that you feel good in; ones that fit you well.

TRASH items that are broken, empty, missing parts, stained, or expired.

RELOCATE items that you don’t use in this particular space.

DONATE items that still have some use in them, that don’t fit anymore, or that you don’t like. Donate items that someone else could get use from.

When it comes to clutter, sometimes it’s difficult to part with certain items for various reasons. For some, getting rid of something you spent a lot of money on, such as an old computer that no longer works and is worth nothing, is hard. Others hang on to items gifted to them out of guilt. Whatever it may be for you, here are some helpful suggestions to keep in mind as you declutter your space to feel rejuvenated:

1. When it comes to gifts, it is the act of giving that matters. Marie Kondo said, “Presents are not ‘things,’ but a way of conveying one’s feelings.” Be grateful for the kind gesture and let someone else enjoy the item more than you do.

2. Remember, the 90/90 rule. Ask yourself, “Have I used this in the last 90 days, or will I use it in the next 90?” With the exception of seasonal items, permit yourself to part with it.

3. If it’s not your favorite, the best one, or necessary, let it go. For example, there’s no reason to keep four ice cream scoops. Keep the one or two you use most often, and donate the others.

4. It seems that 80% of the time, we wear 20% of our wardrobe. When was the last time you donated a shirt to charity and later said, “I wish I had that old shirt back?”

5. Ask yourself: “Since I rarely use this item, is there someone nearby I could borrow it from?”

6. Consider keeping a box of “maybes” or items you’re unsure about parting with. In a month, open the box, and if you haven’t missed any of the items, it’s time to let them go. You can do this! Getting rid of clutter is not a one-time event; it is more like a marathon: one drawer, one shelf, or one closet at a time. You’ll quickly find that as you get rid of trash and donate unneeded or unwanted items, you will feel energized,

BEST-IN-CLASS YOUTH SPOTLIGHT

From Sewing Machine to Rodeo Queen

HAILEY WESTENSKOW contributing writer

Reese Page lives by this motto: “Success isn’t measured in trophies, it's measured in progress,” and that determination led her to success in both aspects. At the young age of 15, Reese is the 4-H horse ambassador for Cache County, Ridgeline’s vice president of FFA, and Lewiston’s rodeo queen. She is most heavily involved in 4-H, a youth development program that is dedicated to empowering young people with leadership qualities by giving them a voice and an outlet to think of solutions to societal issues in a learn-by-doing way.

This involves yearly competitions in many areas, including STEM, agriculture, healthy living, and civic engagement.

Reese’s parents were involved in the agricultural aspect of 4-H and showed pigs, horses, and lambs while they were in school. Their love for it was contagious in the stories they shared with Reese, which inspired her to participate as well. At 8 years old she began competing in the food categories and later sewing. Finally, in junior high, she found a horse that

was fit to compete alongside her. Reese’s summers began to revolve around training with her horse, Vegas, and preparing for the competition.

The horse class involves a few categories: Showmanship, western pleasure, trail, and speed. In showmanship, the handler leads the horse on foot and demonstrates how well she and her horse understand each other. Western pleasure has the rider atop the horse making circles to show the horse understands commands from its rider. The

JULY 13, 2024 LOGAN, UTAH

trail category involves different obstacles for the horse and rider to maneuver through, and speed events are more in relation to the rodeo. Though local participants need only demonstrate skill in one or more of the categories, to qualify for state each must demonstrate proficiency in all of them. This past summer, Reese and Vegas’ hard work paid off with a win in Cache County’s 4-H senior division, and later the title of Lewiston Rodeo Queen. After such a successful event, Reese was eager to return to the training ring in anticipation of the state competition. However, disaster struck when Vegas was injured and incapable of training with Reese. Though they were still able to compete, they did much more poorly than she had dreamed. “I was quite heartbroken about it,” Reese shared. “I worked really

hard all summer to get to this point and it felt like everything crumbled at the last minute.” In the face of this setback, Reese remembered the advice given to her at the beginning of her journey: “Success isn’t measured in trophies, it’s measured in progress.” She was determined to remain optimistic for the future. After each event, she stepped to the judges’ table to ask what she could do to improve for the next year and took notes of what she was told. Through the winter, these notes became a textbook for her to follow as she prepared for the upcoming summer.

“I feel like we’re coming back stronger and better than we would have if he hadn’t gotten hurt,” Reese said. Being involved in 4-H has not only allowed Reese to learn hands-on leadership learning experiences like this, but the gift of forming meaningful connections as well. “Some of the best people I’ve met were through 4-H,” she said. “I didn’t have a ton of friends who rode horses and who were interested in agriculture, but after joining the program and really getting involved I’ve been able to meet people and grow a lot from learning from them.” She also spends rare moments of free time each week educating others on agriculture and how to be involved in 4-H, which has influenced the career path she will eventually take to continue her education in agriculture. If you or your child is interested in participating in 4-H, visit extension.usu.edu/cache/4H/ online.

13th ANNUAL CACHE GRAN FONDO

Reese Page began participating in 4-H at age 8. Now, at 15, she excels as a 4-H horse ambassador for Cache County, Ridgeline High School’s vice president of FFA, and Lewiston’s rodeo queen.

Leis for all of your special days!

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Governor Cox’s Plea to Schools

JENTRIE HALES community advocate, @techhealthyfamily

The advanced progression and access to cell phones have given schools a relatively new challenge. Earlier this year, Governor Cox spoke on this issue and made a statement strongly encouraging both private and public schools to ban cell phones in all classrooms.

Part of his address states, “Cell phone-free learning environments will help our teachers teach and our students learn. We want to give our schools every opportunity to succeed, so I hope our local school districts and charter schools will join me in this effort to keep phones in backpacks or lockers during class time.”

Based on my local research and experience combined with a more wide-scale view, I have learned that many schools already have a cell phone policy. Several policies in Cache Valley Schools state that students are not allowed to use their cell phones in class and that they will be confiscated if used, with an escalation of discipline as infractions incur. It is true that these policies are already in place; however, teachers and administrators continued on next page

...continued from previous page report that a major problem occurring is the constant battle and hassle of enforcing this rule among students.

As many administrators consider this call to action more seriously and parents advocate for the best environment for their children, there are many factors to consider. Here, I have outlined just two of many considerations for this scenario playing out in Cache Valley schools.

Safety

The physical wellbeing of school students is a huge component of any decision-making. Seemingly, the biggest hangup for parents wanting their children to have access to their devices during the school day is the importance of having their children be able to communicate. Communication is important for simple things like schedule changes or for bigger things like emergencies.

A different side of the picture is that access to devices can perpetuate unsafe situations. Consider the amount of cyberbullying that occurs during school or because of images taken on school grounds. In some serious

cases, when there is an emergency, so many people messaging and calling can prevent safety measures from happening more effectively.

Learning

In recent years, technology has boomed inside the classrooms and everywhere else. Many studies show that using technology to learn is beneficial for many kids. In some classrooms, personal cell phones are a standard tool teachers use to take polls and complete assignments.

The flip side is that cell phones prevent students from learning. Even with phones tucked in backpacks or kept in pockets, the constant notifications are just so tempting for young people (as well as adults). One study by United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) found that once a notification goes off, it can take up to 20 minutes before someone can regain their focus.

There may be real educational benefits to simply removing these distractions. A junior high in Granite School District reports that their learning has improved since they banned cell phones entirely.

What will schools in Cache Valley do in response to Governor Cox’s plea? And, will administrators and parents work together to implement these strategies?

Jentrie Hales is a community advocate with five years’ experience empowering parents and children in different settings. She has been invited into classrooms, youth groups, and parent groups throughout Cache Valley to speak about healthy relationships with tech and professionally mentor families that feel overwhelmed with managing the tech in their home. Follow her on Instagram @techhealthyfam or email her at techheatlhyfam@gmail.com.

Calm the Evening Chaos

SARAH LYONS contributing writer

Many families’ weeks are full of practices, lessons, meetings, and activities, sometimes leaving what seems to be an unavoidable sense of chaos in the evenings. Feeding the kids a healthy dinner, keeping your schedule organized, and getting homework done become challenging when you have multiple kids in multiple

activities. How can families enjoy a full schedule while calming the evening chaos?

Family Calendar

Maintaining an accurate and up-to-date family calendar is key to managing a busy schedule and staying organized. For many families, if an event or activity isn’t on

the calendar, it will likely be forgotten or double booked. Some families may find a paper calendar works best, but others may prefer to use a calendar app to access the calendar on their phone while on the go.

“My phone is set with reminders for every recurring event. ‘Get ready for ballet,’ ‘leave for ballet,’ ‘ballet dismissed’ ... I’d be a mess without it.” Amy Cameron, mom of three, said.

Prep the Night Before

School mornings can be hectic. Particularly when your family also has a busy evening of after-school activities. To avoid stress in the evening and reduce the risk of forgetting something, lay everything out in advance.

“I work ahead whenever possible,” mother Kara Thomas, said. “I put all the equipment together the night before, so I’m not doing the scramble when I get home from work.”

It might also be helpful to pack a separate bag for each activity so the kids can grab the bag for that activity on the way out the door. This method can also double as storage for equipment, shoes, and sports gear.

Find Dinner Solutions

“Crockpot meals are the only way for dinners when one kid needs to eat at 4 p.m. and another at 9 p.m.” another mother, Angela Leever, said. “This saves us during busy game and practice nights. I also prepared ready-to-assemble meals like a big salad or burrito with all the components ready.”

Angela also suggests having quick, filling snacks such as yogurt, Uncrustable

sandwiches, and pre-cut fruit on hand for busy nights.

Stephanie Loux, a mom of three with a spouse who often travels for work, said, “Having heavier snacks before activities, if dinner will be late that night, has been super helpful this year.”

Amy suggests planning meals for the week on Sunday night while taking the calendar into consideration. “We’re all home at different times on Mondays, so that’s our crockpot night,” she said.

Use Creative Solutions

Even with careful preparation and planning, you simply can’t be in two places at once. Try to come up with creative solutions that can help you manage a busy night. Stephanie suggests carpooling with friends, having an older child help cook dinner, setting reminders on Alexa or your phone, eliminating screens until tasks are done, and meal planning.

“Depending on the day, homework is done right after school before they can do anything else or in the car on the way to a game,” Stephanie said.

Two-parent households can try a divideand-conquer approach to split up the activities. Some parents may also hire a babysitter who can drive or use the help of a teen sibling to manage rides.

Extracurricular activities have many benefits, and they are fun to participate in. However, when you find yourself with so many activities that your child (or yourself) has become overstimulated and stressed, it may be time to consider cutting back on something. Every family is different and enjoys a different activity level. You may find that your family thrives on keeping busy. Either way, careful planning and preparation, and some creative solutions may be just what you need to calm the chaos.

Vintage Market Days Adds a VIP Charitable Event to Spring Market

Springtime and Vintage Market Days ... can you name a better duo? With warmer days ahead, the idea of strolling down the long aisles of fabulous vintage, handmade, and one-of-a-kind finds sounds delightful. Add supporting a worthy cause, and your soul will be full of all kinds of sunshine!

“We'd love for you to join us Mother's Day weekend, May 9-11, at the Cache County Fairgrounds,” Jenni Hadfield, Northern Utah Vintage Market Days owner, said. “We are excited to showcase over 180 vendors at this year's market. If you like one-of-a-kind vintage, antique treasures, handmade artisans, unique furniture, live music, and food trucks, then you don't want to miss this!”

EMILY BUCKLEY editor in chief

Although the market is just three short days, the other Northern Utah Vintage Market Days owner, Jayme Thompson, says their vendors work year round to bring unique items to the market. “We have vendors that do markets all over the country and Northern Utah is one of their top favorites. We couldn't agree more!” she said.

Vintage Market Days vendors are handpicked and come from across the United States. Jenni and Jayme say regular favorites and new vendors can be expected this year.

This spring something special is being added to the event: “We are teaming up with the Malouf Foundation and their program, Rooms Restored for what we are

calling our VIP event,” Jenni said. “It will take place the night before the Market officially opens, on Wednesday, March 8.”

The evening will include live music by The Bellview Band, select food trucks and treat vendors, and a presentation by Elizabeth Smart.

Rooms Restored is a charitable organization dedicated to creating restorative spaces for children who have endured sexual abuse by providing individual room restorations and advocacy program renovations.

Individual room restorations provide child survivors with an opportunity to makeover their bedrooms through a safe, traumainformed process.

To ensure the privacy and safety of survivors, the program is completely referral-based, with on-staff mental health professionals working directly with licensed therapists and advocacy programs, according to Jordin Petersen, victim advocate and Rooms Restored program director at the Malouf Foundation.

“We are trying to raise $10,000 for Rooms Restored during this VIP event,” Jayme said. “This would cover the renovation of 12 rooms for abuse victims.”

There are a limited number of tickets available for this special event. Please see the ad on the opposite page for information.

Spring Break in Cache Valley

“Spring” and “break” may seem to be ordinary words by themselves, but put them together and they become a magic spell, conjuring up a week of potential fun and freedom. If a special destination isn’t in the cards for spring break this year, there are a lot of opportunities right here in the Valley for an unforgettable week.

Families might just find the right kickoff to a spring break staycation at the Smithfield Library. On Friday, March 29 at 7:30 p.m., the library will be holding their “Star Party,” in partnership with the Cache Valley Astronomical Society. There will be a story time, a presentation done by the society, and then several telescopes will be set up along with assistance for all curious stargazers. For more information, check out smithfieldcity.org/library/page/upcominglibrary-programs online.

Local library websites are full of hidden treasures that could be perfect spring break activities. Several libraries in the

BETH BLAKE contributing writer

area have telescopes that patrons can check out and many offer free activities for kids and families such as story time, game nights, movie nights, STEM activities, and Lego building.

Beaver Mountain offers another potentially great spring break kick-off: On Saturday, March 30, Beaver Mountain will host its annual “Beaver Bash Spring Party.” This party includes the traditional “Race the Face” and “Pond Skim” events, as well as an Easter egg hunt and costume contest. For more information, check out skithebeav.com/events .

American West Heritage Center is hosting their annual “Baby Animal Days” welcoming in spring with new life. While enjoying the beauty of the American West grounds, families have the chance to hold, pet, and interact with baby animals of all sorts. Train rides and pony rides add to the festivities, as well as a field full of concession stands and food trucks.

March 28-30, visitors can enjoy animals from the Utah Petting Zoo “Gone Wild” program. April 1-2, it will be farm animals only. April 3-6, visitors can see baby bears from Yellowstone Bear World.

April 3-6 is also the Mountain Man Rendezvous, giving the chance to go back in time with activities such as tomahawk throwing and primitive skills demonstrations.

For more information about Baby Animal Days and Mountain Man Rendezvous, visit awhc.org

Some other local ideas with magic memory-making potential include:

• Go ice skating at George S. Eccles Ice Center.

• Take a trip to Angie’s Restaurant to “clean the sink.”

• Find some of the free little libraries in town and exchange some books.

• Watch “Willy Wonka” and then take a tour of Aggie Chocolate Factory.

• Have a culture day and visit Logan Fine Art Gallery and the Daughters of the Utah Pioneers museum.

• Have an adventure along the Logan River Walkway.

• Visit Shivers in Logan and have a contest for the most unusual ice cream creation.

• Spend an afternoon at Cache Valley Fun Park.

• Go for a “downtown walk.” Peruse The Book Table, get a slice of bread at Great Harvest, and get a chocolate from Blue Bird Candy.

• See The Antics Comedy Improv Group’s family night show on April 5 at 7:30 p.m. Visit theanticsimprov.com/schedule/ online.

• Visit a local park you’ve never been to before.

• Have a picnic at First Dam and then hike the Bonneville Shoreline Trail.

• Play tourist and take the Cache Valley Visitors Bureau’s self-guided “foodie trek.” Visit explorelogan.com/assets/files/brochures/foodie%20 trek%20sig%20products%20sheet%20Sep%202023.pdf online.

“We should be tourists in our own backyard,” Julie Hollist Terrill, director of the Cache Valley Visitors Bureau, said. “People from all over the world come here on vacation and you should too. You can save money on gas and support local businesses by eating and shopping here. Stay in a local hotel for a real getaway feel.”

If an exotic spring break vacation is on an unattainable wish list this year, explore Cache Valley and see your home through new eyes. Walk into Aggie Ice Cream and inhale that scent of waffle cone and vanilla as if it is the first time. Marvel together as the first signs of spring show up in the Wellsvilles. You never know, it might just be a family opportunity of a lifetime.

BRIDGING CREATIVITY AND COMMUNITY SERVICE:

The Inspirational Story of Brent Harding's Rescue 1 Studios and Screen 33

EMILY BUCKLEY editor in chief

When Brent Harding established his video production company, Rescue 1 Studios, in 2012, he began producing marketing videos for local businesses (including Cache Valley Family Magazine !). Over the years, he has created thousands of videos for hundreds of different industries. While maintaining a handful of local clients, Brent now does most of his work out of state, having worked in nearly every state in the country. He offers filming, photography, 2D animation, and 3D animation services.

His work blends creativity, technology, and a profound sense of duty to give back to first responders.

Rescue 1’s home studio in North Logan is a 5,000-square-foot space.

“We moved into our studio in 2016 and started remodeling, beginning with the construction of a large white cyclorama [theatre] wall,” Brent said. “Soon after the wall was finished, we were curious what a high-end projector would look like on our large blank white wall when we were not

using it for filming. We were pleasantly surprised with the quality of the picture and rigged up a concert speaker sound system to match the size of the screen.”

What started as a curiosity quickly evolved into a thriving event space aptly named after the colossal 33-foot screen. Screen 33 has become a go-to spot for unforgettable experiences, from corporate presentations to family gatherings and even weddings.

“From the very first rental, we have loved watching people come into the space and be blown away by the screen and sound system while also loving how comfortable the environment is, making it easy to socialize and connect with others,” Brent said.

Brent finds a common thread in storytelling on both ends of his businesses. “Storytelling is about connecting people with other people with common values,” he said. “What we film, how we film it, what music we use, what graphics we add, all play a role in communicating those values and strengthening that connection.”

The same connection happens as families, companies, and friends come into Studio 33 for events and create a shared experience using all the elements the venue has to offer.

Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of Rescue 1 and Screen 33 is the dynamic duo behind it all. In addition to running both of these businesses, Brent is a full-time firefighter for Logan City, juggling 48-hour

shifts at the fire department before having four days off, which is when he operates Rescue 1 and Screen 33. His wife, Kennie, is an Emergency Room nurse at Cache Valley Hospital.

Brent explained that firefighters take an oath to put the lives of the public before their own, and that often requires much sacrifice from them and their families.

“Oftentimes, Kennie will just be finishing her night shift in the hospital, and I will leave for my shift to start at the fire department,” Brent said. “We know firsthand just how crazy the juggling act of shift work can be. Add on parenting our three young boys (Jack, 11, Peter, 7, and JT, 1), and to say we are busy would be an understatement. However, our kids have grown to love the fields of work we are in and are learning by example why it's important to give back to the community we live in.”

Brent says that he and Kennie have a strong desire to do more to “help the helpers” and last year they started a

non-profit 501C3 organization called the Firefighter Support Foundation.

The foundation’s mission is to empower firefighters to strengthen their resiliency through mental wellness, physical health, and human connection.

“We have used the Rescue 1 Studios side of the business to donate a website ( www.firefighter.support ) that is full of free resources, including healthy recipes, over 100 fitness videos, and a library of video training covering everything from ice baths to spirituality and resiliency,” Brent said. “We also have a podcast in which firefighters discuss topics of sleep, burnout, trauma therapy, and healthy lifestyle.”

Screen 33 donates a significant portion of profits and the use of its space for all first responder agencies in Cache Valley for training and social gatherings.

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Brent and Kennie Harding

Brent is a full-time firefighter for Logan City

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Firefighters and their spouses are also involved in helping raise funds by coming in off-duty as volunteers to help keep Screen 33’s soda bar stocked and create balloon towers and arches for various parties in exchange for small donations to the foundation from the party and their guests.

Funds from the foundation are used for a variety of things, including help to cover the costs of first responder funerals, help to provide basic needs to first responders who were injured on duty, and free services and training to first responders from subject matter experts. Brent says last year the foundation was able to cover all the travel expenses for a local family of a fallen firefighter to attend a ceremony in Colorado Springs where the firefighter’s name was placed on a wall dedicated to firefighters who died in the line of duty.

To donate to the Firefighter Support Foundation, visit firefighter.support/foundation online.

Events at Screen 33 range from company presentations, movie nights, video game contests, family parties, weddings, and even a memorable weight-lifting competition.

Since 2019, Screen 33 has continually added amenities and aesthetic upgrades, including various seating and table options and hundreds of LED lights that color sync to match specific events.

There is room to host 80 people seated at tables and up to 150 people standing.

The venue is equipped with:

• An 8’ x 8’ stage with a microphone, podium, and full audio

• Luxury theater-style seating for up to 30 people, 80 folding chairs, and 10 bar stools

• Round, rectangular, and cocktailstyle table and seating options

“We realize that we do not have the biggest event space in town,” Brent said. “However, we love the size of our space and feel it is just the right size for meaningful social connections for smaller groups.”

For more information or to schedule a booking, visit screen33.com or call 435-359-0707.

Only Young Skin Care has the OneTwo punch to help get you ready for: Swimsuit, Wedding, Reunion, or whatever season you have ahead that requires you to slip into that more revealing outfit.

It all starts with a medical prescription to that shot you have likely heard so much about, Semaglutide, and ends with the proven body contouring results of CoolSculpting. It’s a one-two punch that is proven to be both safe and effective, and doctor approved.

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SEMAGLUTIDE

Semaglutide is a once a week shot that is self-administered at home. A medication that has been used for over 20 years to help diabetics, has proven effective in helping people lose up to 20 pounds. In fact, the makers of the diabetic version of this shot have also FDA approved the shot for weight loss and marketed it under their own brand names. But you don’t have to pay those high prices for their version because we have it available for our patients in a compounded form through our local pharmacy.

COOLSCULPTING ELITE

A procedure that literally freezes and kills the treated fat cells, with little to no down-time or discomfort. It is scientifically proven that when subjected to certain temperatures for a specific time, fat cells just die. Once dead, the body flushes those dead cells out through your own lymphatic system. Best of all, the treatment can be focused on your most troubling areas like your love handles or stubborn belly fat.

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Practical Mental Health Help for Teens and Parents

Each developmental phase of parenting brings joy and challenges. There are all the exciting firsts and milestones, but there’s also navigating the teen years. Being a teenager and being a parent of a teenager can be treacherous. Parents trying to support their children during these years may be overwhelmed with more questions than answers.

In recent years, the mental health crisis facing teens has gained nationwide attention. In October 2021, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) joined other organizations to declare a national emergency in youth mental health. Today, health care professionals confirm that since the COVID pandemic, anxiety and depression among teens have skyrocketed, but parents aren’t alone. There are more resources available than ever to help.

Casey Pehrson, Ed.S., NCSP, is a school psychologist who has been helping families and teens across Utah battle anxiety and depression since 2007. In 2017, after researching dozens of books on depression and based on years of experience counseling teenagers, Casey developed what she calls “The SELFIE Method.”

Casey says depression used to be her “kryptonite” when counseling teens because treatment successes were hit-ormiss and it took a long time to see results. But the results for teens struggling with depression who implement The SELFIE Method have been solid: It works.

TARA BONE contributing writer

SELFIE is a simple acronym for the practices of: S leep, E xercise, L ight, F un, I nteraction, and E ating right. Casey says she could go on and on about the various neurotransmitters, hormones, chemicals, vitamins, minerals, and processes that SELFIE activates. Simply put, the method unleashes “happy juices” in our bodies and brains that counter anxiety and depression.

“The best part about The SELFIE Method is that it actually works, and the effects happen quickly. I love offering something that people can take “to-go,” use immediately with obvious results, and keep using forever,” Casey said. “It’s like a gift that keeps on giving. Many students have reported that they think about SELFIE every day, and they see a major boost in their energy and mood when they’re practicing “SELFIE Care” versus when they’re not.”

Casey has given over 150 presentations in 40 Utah cities sharing The SELFIE Method. She says there are various versions of the presentation — one of which is three hours long and dives into the science behind the method. But SELFIE can be summarized in two points: 1. SELFIE is science, and 2. You can’t wait to feel like implementing SELFIE. Do SELFIE first, and you’ll feel better afterward.

Casey says there is a “treatment trifecta” for mental health, which can include counseling, medication, and lifestyle practices. In her experience, medication results vary from teen to teen, so

SELFIE Method booknark available at selfiemethod.org

consultation with a doctor can help families navigate what’s best for their teen. However, in Casey’s experience, she says lifestyle practices are the most underrated and most powerful of the “treatment trifecta.”

Casey affirms that it’s difficult for parents to watch their teens struggle. She recommends that parents who need help reach out to their child’s doctor or schedule an appointment with a therapist who specializes in working with teens. She adds that many school districts have school mental health teams, including school counselors, psychologists, and/or social workers. If the mental health issues go beyond the scope of services schools can provide, districts often have community partnerships to link families to mental health resources.

Parents hope their children grow into healthy and happy adults. Though there are ups and downs along the way, Casey reminds us that none of us is alone. It takes a village to raise children, and there is support when we look outward.

For more information about Casey and The SELFIE Method, see selfiemethod.org online

Who Doesn't Like Flowers?

MARK ANDERSON owner, Anderson’s Seed and Garden

Their flowers can dazzle with unique shapes and colors, but just be aware that their bloom season is short lived, albeit spectacular. Breeders have developed many new varieties of perennial flowers that have colorful and attractive foliage, so that they retain their interest all summer. Heuchera, tiarella, hosta, and cimicifuga fall into this category. Most gardeners don’t really care about their flowers as their foliage is so eye catching and long lasting. Keep in mind, that while you don’t have to plant perennials each year, it still takes an afternoon each fall to clean them up and prepare them for next year (about the same time and effort it takes to plant annuals in the spring).

Regularly gardeners ask me for tulip bulbs in the spring and dahlias in the fall. The best way to identify which bulbs are which is to remember that spring flowering bulbs are planted in the fall (tulips, daffodils, hyacinth, crocus) and summer flowering

bulbs are planted in the spring (begonias, dahlias, gladiolus, and lilies).

Summer flowering bulbs will bloom nearly all summer like annuals, and almost all require removal from the soil in the fall to store them for replanting the following year. They are not hardy enough to survive the winter (except for Oriental and Asian lilies). Spring-planted bulbs have a limited blooming season, like perennials, and are hardy enough to leave in the ground to naturalize, where they will rebloom every spring for multiple years before they must be replaced. Bulbs produce some of the most unique, colorful, and beautiful flowers you can grow in your own yard. Their best quality remains how simple and easy they are to grow.

To truly have a flower garden that your neighbors envy and you enjoy spending time in every day, mix it up. The most attractive gardens — at least in my eye — are those that incorporate the best qualities

of each of these flowers to make a garden catch the eye of all. Add annuals to your perennial garden to give it more color throughout the summer. Plant annuals and perennials over your spring flowering bulbs so that when the bulbs are done blooming, the other flowers take over. Believe me, they will tolerate each other very well. Don’t hesitate to add stand-out bulbs like cannas or dinnerplate dahlias to your gardens for some show-stopping, eye-catching beauties. Some quick foliage producing plants, like sweet potato vines, will add more color and interest into your creations than just a solid mass of flowers. Be creative, use your imagination, and take advantage of the wide variety of plants and colors at your disposal to turn your landscape into something truly amazing. You have a wide range of annuals, perennials, and bulbs at your disposal. Use them. I promise, you will love the results.

• Seed prices haven’t increased.

• Supply is excellent but demand is high.

• Get your seeds early before the long lines in March.

• There are more fruit trees than ever before, but they’ll go quickly.

• Some plants are difficult to find with limited availability.

A Mathematical Mindset: Why Children Need to Develop Number Sense and How Parents Can Help

DAVID ALDER

Cache County School District, communications intern

Math has always been an integral part of a child’s education. Yet, as students grow older, it’s not uncommon for them to begin to shy away from the subject, often coupled with phrases like, “I’m just not good at math.” This attitude simply isn’t accurate. Beverly Sanders, Cache County School District’s elementary STEM specialist, says children aren’t born with a math brain, but rather it emerges over time. “Research supports that math minds are created and developed,” said Mrs. Sanders.

Helping students develop a mathematical mindset can foster this mental growth. Jo Boaler, a Stanford professor of mathematics, wrote for the American Federation of Teachers in 2019 about the importance of students having this outlook.

“Successful math users … approach math with the desire to understand it, to think about it, and with the confidence that they can make sense of it,” Dr. Boaler said. Successful math users search for patterns and relationships and think about connections.

The ability to recognize patterns and draw connections with numbers called “number

sense,” is critically important for helping all children better understand math. “Number sense is how students understand numbers, values, magnitude, and the relationship between numbers,” Mrs. Sanders explained. “Number sense is directly related to how students ‘see’ numbers in their minds and relate to each other. It’s the foundation for all mathematical thinking.”

In the classroom, the development of number sense helps students put abstract concepts of numerals into concrete and visual representations. Children begin to learn to count by using blocks and then transition from blocks to drawn-out squares and from there to numerals.

“That's the power of how we teach them,” Mrs. Sanders said. “If we just teach them numerals and memorization, students have no model in their brain around it. There's no relationship connected. But if they can draw a model of it, they understand how they relate to one another.”

Parents play a big role in helping develop their children’s mathematical skills and confidence at home. “Playing with numbers at home is the first introduction students

have to mathematics,” she said. “This lays the foundation for interest in math ideas and confidence in their ability to figure things out.”

“Games with cards, dominoes, and dice are the most accessible resources to support math in the home,” Mrs. Sanders said. “Playing board games with turn-taking and counting is the greatest start in counting for early learners. Make it fun!”

Games also help children identify the relationships between numbers. “For example, have kids play the card game “War” because there's a visual representation of the numeral, and they have to know which one's higher. That speaks to magnitude,” she said. “Not only are they understanding the relationship of numbers, but they're also understanding the magnitude and how it compares to another.”

The development of number sense is focused on helping children see math in the world around them, but it still requires the traditional methods of understanding basic math facts. “That's fluency and is still a big part of what to do,” Mrs. Sanders said. “To be efficient in complex tasks, they need that skill set. Number sense is not throwing out the old methods but expanding on them.”

The number sense method of learning math focuses on helping children understand different ways to solve problems efficiently. While this may need to be clarified for parents who were originally taught the traditional way of math, Mrs. Sanders encourages parents to view this as an opportunity to learn alongside their children. “Math can become a great conversation between parents and their children,” Mrs. Sanders said. “The math is primarily the same, and parents and children have new opportunities to engage in problem-solving together.”

Tuna, Dog Poop, and Initiative

Three years ago I wrote a column about self-reliance and the importance of showing personal initiative to solve problems. A colleague recently shared an experience with me that suggested a repeat of that column might be appropriate.

In my friend’s experience, an adult approached a school principal to inform the principal that a can of tuna fish was on the sidewalk in front of the school. The suggestion was that the principal needed to solve this problem, but the question was, why didn’t the adult who saw the can of tuna fish take care of the problem themselves? This is similar to the situation that Kirk Weisler describes in his book The Dog Poop Initiative , based on his own real-life experience.

In the book, a father and his son arrive at a little league soccer game and find parents, players, and referees pointing out a pile of dog poop in the middle of the playing field. Various conversations were taking place about how to ensure everyone knew about the pile, how to ensure the players didn’t step in it, and how to prevent the soccer ball from hitting the pile.

As the father and his son watched these conversations, they looked at one another in confusion. The father then pulled a piece of a cardboard box out of a nearby trash can, used the piece of cardboard to clean up the pile, and placed the pile of poop in the trash.

Mr. Weisler uses this story to illustrate the differences between Poopers (individuals and situations that create problems), Pointers (individuals who simply identify problems), and Scoopers (those who take action to resolve problems) and the story’s underlying message is the importance of showing initiative.

Initiative, or the ability to assess situations and take action independently, is a key attribute of successful children and adults. Whether it be in the home, school, or workplace, the ability to effectively show initiative helps us manage our time and tasks.

FRANK SCHOFIELD superintendent, Logan City School District

So, how can parents help their children develop initiative and improve their own abilities along the way? Although the specific steps will vary depending on each family, some basic actions include:

MODELING

Children need to see what initiative looks like and understand why we do what we do that shows initiative. I have a friend who, when driving in his truck, will stop if there is trash on the road so he can pick it up and throw it in the truck bed. When his children ask why, he explains that we all have a responsibility to take care of problems when we see them. Modeling initiative and explaining why we do what we do is the first step to helping children develop that habit.

ENABLING

It is difficult to take initiative if we lack the tools or skills to do so. If the goal is to have children take initiative in doing their own laundry, then the training and tools need to be provided for them (i.e., laundry detergent and knowledge about the washing machine, etc). When parents think about what training and tools need to be provided for a child to take initiative successfully, it is more likely that children will perceive they can.

CELEBRATING

Taking initiative is a learned habit, and any time we develop new habits it is likely we will stumble along the way. When we see children taking initiative, it is essential that we recognize and celebrate their efforts, even if the efforts were not completely successful (i.e., a red sock was washed with white clothes, the cast iron frying pan was scrubbed so hard it lost its seasoning, or the newly sprouted carrots were pulled up with the weeds). Mistakes can be corrected, but if children feel that their efforts at taking initiative are the problem, they will be less likely to take initiative in the future. Reinforcement of the desired behavior will allow them to develop the skill of taking initiative while improving their ability to perform the specific task successfully.

In the story of The Dog Poop Initiative , the outcome was that a soccer game was played without interruption. At my friend’s school, the can of tuna fish was put in the trash. In our own lives, teaching children to take initiative successfully can improve our homes and communities and prepare children for greater success in their future endeavors.

The Power of Presence: How Family Dinners Boost Communication

In our fast-paced world, finding moments of connection with our loved ones can be challenging. Regular family dinners are one simple, yet powerful way to strengthen family bonds and enhance communication. In this article, we'll delve into the profound impact that the simple act of sharing a meal together can have on fostering open communication within a family.

Dedicated Time for Connection

Family dinners provide a dedicated time for the entire family to come together away from the distractions of daily life.

courtesy of the Citrus Pear team

This intentional gathering creates a space where everyone can focus on each other, fostering a sense of togetherness and belonging.

Strengthened Bonds

Sharing a meal is more than just a physical activity; it's a social and emotional experience. As family members break bread together, they share not only food, but also stories, experiences, and laughter. This shared time contributes to a deeper understanding of one another and strengthens the emotional bonds between family members.

“Sharing a meal is more than just a physical activity; it's a social and emotional experience.”

Enhanced Communication Skills

Engaging in conversations during family dinners provides an opportunity for everyone to express themselves and actively listen to others. This practice can significantly enhance communication

skills, teaching family members the art of effective communication, empathy, and understanding.

In a world filled with constant busyness and digital distractions, the simplicity of gathering for family dinners holds immense power. The regular practice of coming together over a meal creates a nurturing environment for open communication, ultimately leading to improved bonding, strengthened connections, and enhanced communication skills. As we navigate the complexities of life, don't underestimate the transformative impact of the shared moments around the dinner table.

By prioritizing the power of presence, families can create a haven of communication that not only enriches their relationships, but also leaves a lasting positive impact on each member.

For days when time is scarce and schedules are tight, tools like Citrus Pear can be a game-changer. By offering meal preparation services such as meal delivery, Citrus Pear allows families to focus on what truly matters — the joy of being truly present with our loved ones.

Let's embrace the tradition of family dinners, savor the joy of being present, and simplify the process, ensuring that the power of connection remains at the heart of our shared dining experiences.

Understanding Night Vision

MICHAEL COLE, OD Child and Family Eye Care Center

Patients in our clinic often have trouble seeing at night. In many cases, this especially occurs while driving. Often patients feel that their vision is fine during the daytime but much worse at night. This phenomenon is quite common. Indeed, we all see worse at night than we do during the day. Why is that?

A large portion of the reason for worse vision at night has to do with the limitations of the eyeball itself. The optics of the eye must be specifically arranged for us to see clearly. In fact, misalignments measured in fractions of millimeters can have large impacts on how blurry or clear we see. As light enters the eye, it passes through several interfaces that help to refract the light toward the retina where we can see it.

The two major structures that focus light in the eye are the cornea, which is the clear dome on the front of the eye, and the crystalline lens, which sits just behind the iris inside the eye. The pupil, which is an opening in the iris, gets larger or smaller and regulates the amount of light that passes through these optical surfaces.

Often cameras will have large aperture settings which allow more light into the camera to capture low-light photos. This opens the “pupil” of the camera wider

much like how our pupils widen in the dark. This allows photos in dim environments that would otherwise not be possible, but it also causes a degradation in the quality of the image, especially toward the edges of the photo.

With any lenses, the best images are created by the center of the lens, when viewing with a small aperture. This is true in artificial lenses like camera or glasses lenses as well as natural lenses that occur in the eye. For example, a person with a -5.00 glasses prescription would see great when looking through the center of their glasses, but when turning their head to look through the side of the lenses, everything would become distorted and less clear. This effect is much worse the higher the power in the lens and is very significant in the eye where the lenses have a combined focusing power of roughly 60.

With a small pupil size during the daytime, our eyes are using the central portion of the optics of the eye and we have a much better visual experience. At night, or in low lighting situations, with larger pupils letting light into the peripheral optics of the eye, we

naturally lose the clarity that comes with a smaller aperture.

Some nocturnal animals have specific adaptations to allow them to see better at night. For example, some animals have an additional reflective layer beneath the retina that serves to allow the photoreceptors a greater chance to detect the light they are exposed to. This is why some animals’ eyes appear to “glow” at night when any light is shone toward them. Nocturnal animals also have more rod-type photoreceptors which function much better during low-light conditions.

Alas, we are not nocturnal animals and just do not see well at night with the eyes that we have.

Our best option is to correct vision to the very best clarity possible. If one’s vision is slightly blurry in the daytime, it will always be more blurry at night. Glasses with anti-glare treatments on the lenses are also helpful with lights and glare at night. Having a clean windshield is important to not introduce unnecessary additional glare from the windshield glass. In some cases, there are also eye drops that can be used to temporarily shrink our pupils while driving in the dark to improve the optics of the eye.

Make A “5 Senses” Stress-Busting Kit For Your Kids

SANDI SCHWARTZ contributing writer

Our children are increasingly facing situations that cause them great anxiety. It may be a trip to the doctor, the first day of school, a challenging test, traveling on an airplane, or going to an unfamiliar place

like a friend’s party or relative’s house. How can we help our kids get through these stressful times so they can learn to calm themselves down?

One helpful technique in addressing

anxiety is distraction. If we can interrupt the ruminations and overwhelming fear, then our children can get back to a calmer, more balanced state of mind. We can teach our kids how to do this by using mindfulness to be fully present in the moment. Mindfulness allows our children to understand their mind-body connection better and to stop being so reactive to thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations no matter what is happening in their environment.

A commonly used mindfulness tactic is to have tools that trigger all of our five senses. To make it easy for you to arm your kids with tools to calm down when they get panicky, consider putting together a “5 Senses” Stress-Busting Kit based on the following ideas:

Touch

Feeling different textures can be an effective distraction tool. One trick is to

have your child touch and feel one texture at a time. Have them tell themselves what it feels like. This way, their full attention is on what they are touching. It is helpful to rotate through several different types of textures, such as smooth, rough, slimy, squishy, fuzzy, and hard items.

• Touch and feel books like Pat the Bunny

• Touch and feel cards

• Stress balls

• Buy a sensory toy kit or put together your own bag of items with multiple textures like a tissue, sandpaper, cotton ball, squishy ball, and piece of felt.

Sight

The sense of sight offers many possibilities for relaxation. Here are a few ideas for your stress-busting kit that are easily accessible on the go:

• Mindful coloring books: Creative activities like coloring have been scientifically proven to reduce stress levels because we become so focused on what we are doing when we reach a state of “flow” that we forget what is happening around us. Your children can use any type of coloring book, but mandalas are very popular in the mindfulness world. You can easily bring along a coloring book and pack of crayons or markers.

• Nature imagery: Amazingly, just looking at pictures of nature scenes can reduce stress because our parasympathetic nervous system (which helps us calm down) is activated. Bring along a packet of national park postcards or a nature-themed picture book.

• Kaleidoscope: Looking at colorful, mesmerizing patterns can grab anyone’s attention for minutes on end and is another wonderful way for our children to get lost in the moment.

Taste

Mindful eating is another popular relaxation technique. Prepare a few items that your kids can use to focus on taste. Teach them how to use mindful eating to direct their attention to the flavors in their mouth. Try mindful eating exercises such as mindfulness and the art of chocolate eating.

• Trail mix: This non-perishable snack, contains multiple items to taste, like granola, nuts, seeds, raisins, dried cranberries, yogurt drops, and chocolate pieces, is a must-have for your kit.

• Sugar-free chewing gum multi-flavor pack: A 2008 study found that chewing gum can relieve stress and anxiety.

• Flavored oral sensory chew toys: These are great for children 6 months and up. Not only do these have flavors to focus on, but they also have multiple textures.

Sound

Music helps take our attention from fear to something pleasurable. It is a healthy distraction that allows us to be mindful and forces our brain to shift the thinking process. Consider putting together a special playlist for your kids to listen to when stressed. Although slow, quiet classical music is known to have calming effects like lowering pulse and heart rate, reducing blood pressure, and decreasing the levels of stress hormones in our body, it is really a personal choice to discover which music you find most soothing. Upbeat songs about happiness may work for some, while soothing nature sounds may work for others.

Smell

As the old adage “stop and smell the roses” reminds us, fragrances can help us to relax and be in the moment. There is no scent more relaxing than lavender. The antioxidant components of lavender can lower the level of stress hormones in our bodies. There are several methods to use lavender to soothe stress and anxiety. Here are a few that you can throw in your stressbusting kit:

• Lavender spray

• Lavender lotion for kids

• Aromatherapy diffuser bracelets and necklaces for children

First-Time Homebuyers Assistance Program Aims to Help More Utahns Become Home Owners

I want to share some exciting news about Utah's housing market. As you may know, the cost of housing has been on the rise in recent years, making it difficult for many people to afford to buy their first home. However, the Utah state government is taking steps to address this issue.

In his budget for fiscal year 2025, Governor Spencer Cox prioritizes affordable living. He has announced an ambitious plan to build 35,000 starter homes by 2028 and asked that the Legislature allocate $150 million to do just that.

This new housing initiative would include $50 million to the First-Time Homebuyers Assistance Program created by the Legislature last session. This program allows

STACY MOSS executive officer, Cache Valley Association of REALTORS®

new buyers to access up to $20,000 to help with a down payment or closing costs, but only toward a newly constructed and not yet inhabited home. The home can’t cost more than $450,000, which is on the lower end of the spectrum of Utah home costs.

Governor Cox explained that 35,000 starter homes are needed just to meet demand over the next five years. The Governor also stated that the price of housing is the “single greatest threat to our future prosperity, the American dream, and our strong communities. Imagine a world where an entire generation of people never have the opportunity to own a home.”

To make these new homes more accessible to low and middle-income Utahns, Governor Cox also hopes to expand sweat equity

programs to allow buyers to do manual labor and reduce their down payment. The plan includes condo units and townhouses, though he emphasized his hope to “see many, many more single-family detached starter homes.”

Both state and local governments are working toward the goal to provide better, more affordable housing for Utahns. Now is the time for potential buyers to understand how these funds will be allocated to infrastructure and through grants and innovative funding incentives. Contact a local, trusted REALTOR® to walk through the process and learn how you can get started toward your dream of homeownership.

Structuring Downtime

SARAH LYONS contributing writer

In today's fast-paced world, it can be challenging to find a moment of peace and quiet, especially for parents. Our calendars are filled with appointments, meetings, after-school activities, and social obligations that leave very little time for ourselves. However, taking breaks from our busy schedules and enjoying our downtime is crucial for you and your child’s physical and mental wellbeing.

Downtime gives our bodies a chance to rest and recharge, and it allows our minds to relax from the constant stimulation of technology. How is a busy family supposed to balance all of the sports, activities, work, and school obligations that fill our calendars while still enjoying some much needed downtime? Here are some easy tips for families that will give them a chance to rest and recharge:

Plan for nothing

One way to incorporate more downtime into our schedules is by planning for nothing. This may seem counterintuitive, but by intentionally leaving gaps in our calendars, we create opportunities for spontaneity and relaxation. These unscheduled moments allow us to decompress and escape from the demands of our everyday lives. It can be as simple as taking a walk in nature, reading a book, snuggling while watching a movie, playing outside, or simply doing nothing at all. Whether it’s once a week or once a day, add something you enjoy to your calendar.

Reduce screen time

Downtime doesn't just mean physical rest; it also encompasses mental rest. In today's digital age, we are constantly bombarded

with notifications and distractions from our screens. It’s not just our kids who are addicted to texting, checking their phones, and playing video games, adults are facing the same challenge. Allowing for screen-free time for you and your kids can improve focus, creativity, and overall wellbeing.

Schedule social downtime

Keep in mind that downtime doesn't have to be a solo activity. It can also be a chance to connect with loved ones or engage in meaningful conversations without distractions. In fact, scheduling times for social downtime can strengthen relationships and improve overall communication within our busy lives. Being intentional about spending downtime with your spouse and children

is important for building and maintaining your relationship and making long-lasting memories.

Pass along good habits

As parents, it's important to teach our children the value of downtime. In a world where they are constantly bombarded with stimuli and activities, it's crucial to give them the opportunity to unwind and recharge. This can be achieved by setting boundaries around screen time and encouraging outdoor play or creative activities. By instilling these habits early, we can help our children develop a healthy relationship with technology and understand the importance of taking breaks. When you place value on quality time together, exercise, spending time outdoors, reading, or other screen-free activities that encourages time to rest and recharge, your kids will see the value in it as they grow and mature into adulthood.

Do nothing

It’s easy to feel guilty about letting some of the chores go, laying around on the couch binging a TV show, or spending the day reading a book. While this may not be realistic on a daily basis, it’s perfectly OK to let things go for a few hours so that you can feel rested and recharged to continue to function at your family’s normal, busy pace. Allowing some time to play as a family and showing your kids that downtime and family time is a priority is sometimes more important than having a clean and organized home.

Treat these moments as non-negotiable appointments with yourself, just like you would with any other important commitment. This will help prioritize your wellbeing, as well as your child’s, and ensure that you don't neglect downtime in favor of constantly being busy. Additionally, mix up your downtime activities to keep it interesting and

refreshing. This can include trying new hobbies or simply stepping out of your comfort zone. Don't feel guilty for taking some time for yourself. Remember that rest is essential for our physical and mental health, and by taking care of ourselves, we can ultimately be better parents, partners, and individuals. Go ahead, put down your phone, turn off your computer, and embrace some welldeserved downtime.

5 Ways to Structure Downtime:

Plan for nothing

Reduce screentime

Schedule social downtime

Pass along good habits!

CLASSES + CAMPS 2024

Cache Children’s Choir 435-752-6260 | cachechildrenschoir.org

10% early registration discount before May 15, use the code EARLY at checkout.

Take to the Skies! Come soar in the skies! We'll play instruments, move to the music, and sing our hearts out. Music, rhythms, crafts, friendships, and memories are all part of the fun as we fly away in song.

CAMP I:

Ages 4-5 (Tuition $85 per child, includes t-shirt)

June 10-14, 9 a.m. to Noon, Providence Elementary

CAMP II:

Ages 6-7 (Tuition $85 per child, includes t-shirt)

June 10-14, 1 to 4 p.m., Providence Elementary

CAMP III:

Ages 8-12 (Tuition $120 per child, includes t-shirt)

June 3—June 7, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., USU Daryl Chase Fine Arts Building

Students need to bring a sack lunch each day.

Cache Valley Center for the Arts 435-752-0026 | cachearts.org/classes

Send your kids through a journey in time with CacheARTS Summer Art Camp! Campers will explore three fundamental decades of America, the 1940s, the 1970s, and the 1990s, through art,

dance, music, and more! At the end of each session, you'll have the opportunity to see your child perform on stage with their new friends. Space is limited, enroll today!

Cache Valley Civic Ballet-School (435) 753-3633 | cvcballet.org

The Cache Valley Civic Ballet-School offers qualified training in classical ballet to community members of all ages and skill levels. The fiveweek summer semester runs

from June 17 to July 18. Ages 3 and up. Visit our website for a complete list of classes.

SUMMER INTENSIVE:

July 29-August 9

CLASSES + CAMPS 2024

Cache Valley Fun Park

435-792-4000 |

cachevalleyfunpark.com/summer-camp

Summer camps at the FUNNEST place in town!

Our camps are the perfect way to beat the summer doldrums! Your kids will experience activities full of fun and learning. No vegging out in front of the TV … just FUN times and happy memories!

Highpoint Tumbling

435-753-7500 | sportsacademy.com

Ongoing, year-round tumbling and gymnastics classes for toddlers through competitive teams. Check our website for the current schedule.

Dance Illusion

435-755-6783 | danceillusionutah.com | 42 East 2200 North, North Logan

Register for our summer classes and camps!

INTENSIVES AND CAMPS:

3-DAY TECHNIQUE

INTENSIVES:

July 1-3 and July 15-17

PRINCESS CAMP (VOTED

BEST OF CACHE VALLEY):

July 8-10

2-DAY MUSICAL THEATER

CAMP: July 22-23

3-DAY BALLET INTENSIVE:

July 29-31

1-DAY INTENSIVES:

Hip Hop - August 5, AcroAugust 6, Ballroom - August 7

4-WEEK SUMMER

PROGRAM:

June 4-June 27 (Tuesday/Wednesday/ Thursday)

Improve your technique, try a combo class, and make new friends!

CLASSES + CAMPS 2024

Logan Music Academy

435-265-6691 | loganmusicacademy.com

UKE CAMP (AGES 5 AND UP):

June 17-21

KIDS JUST WANNA HAVE FUN (AGES 6 AND UP):

June 24-28

$120 for each camp.

All camps run from 10 a.m. to noon daily.

Discounts are available for multiple camps or early enrollment.

Manny Martins Soccer Camps at Utah State University mannymartinssports.com

SKILLS • CHARACTER • FUN

KIDS CAMP (COED AGES 6-14):

July 17-20, July 22-25

TEAM CAMP (GIRLS AGES 14-18):

July 18-20

Mountain Peak Volleyball

mtnpeakvolleyball.com

SUMMER CAMPS:

Youth volleyball camps for ages 4 to 18 for all skill levels begin in May! We offer camps from May through August. Instruction from our Mountain Peak coaching staff, as well as collegiatelevel coaches.

OUTDOOR VOLLEYBALL: Get outside and play under the sunshine. Our grass and sand volleyball clinics begin in late May and end in July. Tournaments are offered on select weekends in collaboration with Logan City.

FALL LEAGUE:

Practice and competition in a league format for 1st through 12th graders begin in August! Our recreation and competitive leagues are split into 1st-3rd grade, 4th-6th grade, 7th-9th grade, and 8th-12th grade. Both north and south practice options are available.

BOYS & GIRLS CLUB

TRYOUTS:

Tryouts for all U10-U18 boys (all levels) and national-level U15-U18 girls will be midJuly. Check the website for more information!

CLASSES + CAMPS 2024

Pickleville Camp

picklevillecamp.com

Join Pickleville Playhouse's cast and directing team for an insanely fun week of singing, dancing, and acting — culminating in an end-ofweek performance and pizza party!

All campers receive a Pickleville Camp t-shirt and a complimentary ticket to attend either of Pickleville's exciting 2024 summer productions!

Get $50 OFF registration before June 1st with promo code "CVFMAG."

2024 CAMP DATES:

July 8-12 or July 15-19

(Logan: Ages 8-18)

July 15-19

(Logan: Ages 6-7)

July 22-26 or July 29-Aug 2

(Bear Lake: Ages 8-18)

Get your summer class or camp added to this list! Want to advertise for your business in our next issue, premiering Summer 2024? Get in touch to request rates and information! Send us an email at: ads@cachevalleyfamilymagazine.com

Sports Academy sportsacademy.com

SUMMER PRESCHOOL:

Designed for 3-5 year-olds. Keep kids engaged and prepare them for school in the fall. (3) one-week sessions, $120 per session.

SUMMER CAMPS:

Keep kids active and healthy during this week-long camp! (3) one-week camps, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. $180 per camp. Ages 5-12.

SUMMER SWIM SCHOOL:

Learn to swim with the best

instruction in the Valley. Classes begin June 3. Twoweek Sessions, MondayThursday, 40-minute classes.

TENNIS CLASSES AND CAMPS:

Professional tennis instruction from the Valley’s top coaches and players. All ages and ability levels! Classes begin June 3.

TUMBLING CLASSES: Flip and tumble to new heights with classes for all ages and abilities. Classes begin June 3.

TriStar Ranch tristarranchllc.com

SUMMER RIDING CAMPS:

9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Lunch included.

Students will learn about the different riding disciplines, riding safety, horsemanship, identifying tack, and how to tack up a horse, groom, and best of all ride horses!

Price: $125

Kid Camps (Ages 8 to 12)

Teen Camps (Ages 13 to 17)

SUMMER GAME CAMPS:

Come on out to our Horsing Around Game Camp.

9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Lunch included.

Students will play multiple unmounted horse games including Live Action HorseOpoly, relay races, and more!

Price: $75

Ages 7 to 12

CRAFT DAYS: Come on out for three fun hours of making age appropriate horse-related crafts!

Ages 5 to 11 and 13 to 17.

Price: $45

SUMMER EQUINE CLASSES:

EQUINE DEVELOPMENTJUNE:

Three-week course that covers the growth of a horse from embryo to seniors.

EQUINE TRAINING - JULY:

Three-week course that covers how to work with horses from foals to seniors.

BUILD YOUR DREAM RANCH - AUGUST:

This class is 3 hours filled with knowledge and fun!

Group Classes: $25/session

Custom Individual Classes: $45/session

CLASSES + CAMPS 2024

Tueller School of Dance

(435) 752-9154 | tuellerdance.com

Join us for our fun SUMMER TECHNIQUE WORKSHOPS !

Offering classes for ages 3 and up. This is a great time to get little ones started and for experienced dancers to improve their turns, leaps, tricks, and overall dance technique. See our schedule and classes on our website or email us at tuellerdance@gmail.com for more info. Come dance with us!

Utah Festival Opera

Broadway Bound utahfestival.org

Train like a PRO with the stars of Utah Festival Opera and Musical Theatre.

BROADWAY BOUND-

SENIOR:

Ages 13-18, July 15-20, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.

Includes tickets to Utah Festival Mainstage shows and daily lunches. $375

BROADWAY BOUNDJUNIOR:

Ages 8-12, July 22-27, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily.

Includes tickets to Utah Festival Mainstage shows. $250

Family discounts available.