North Ogden Connection June 2024

Mayor's Message Change in Force

On the first Saturday in May of each year over 150,000 sports fans gather in Louisville to watch the Kentucky Derby. This year as I was scanning through the channels, I happened to stop on one that was broadcasting the race. Numerous commentators were each predicting who would win and horse racing experts were assigning the odds of winning to each of the horses in the race. The winning odds ranged from 3-1 to 50-1. Most of the pre-race focus was on the horses with the best odds to win. In essence, winners and losers were being picked and a great deal of judgement was taking place prior to the race. The horse that won the race, funnily enough, wasn’t picked to win and had been assigned odds of 18-1. Why do I mention this? In today’s world, it seems the focus on picking winners and losers and judging others based on our own perceptions is pervasive. Just like in the Kentucky Derby, the favorite doesn’t always win. Even though the odds are stacked against some, everyone should be provided the opportunity to win. Giving everyone the opportunity to succeed and showing empathy makes for a better community. We should be cautious in how we judge situations and others—we could be surprised with the outcome. Personally, I’ve always liked to root for the underdog!

“God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can; And the wisdom to know the difference.”

Dr. Reinhold Nieber

Giving everyone access to a level playing field helps create an environment of inclusion and helps to avoid resentment and division in our community. You may have heard or seen the phrase “One North Ogden.” This is more than just a group of words, it’s a goal to unite our community and keep North Ogden a great place to live! Reaching this goal becomes more realistic if we make the effort to understand

North Ogden Connection is published monthly by Connection Publishing© www.connectionpublishing.com

Questions, Comments or to Advertise Ryan Spelts | ryan@connectionpub.com | 801-624-9652

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

each other’s circumstances and avoid making rash judgments. There’s real meaning behind the statement, “Give people the benefit of the doubt.”

I noticed one of the things that has the greatest potential to divide a community or a nation is criticism. It’s easy to get upset when those around us make decisions we disagree with. It can get frustrating, especially when it seems to keep happening. I have seen this in our city. I always try to remember that most people have the desire to do the right thing; I would encourage each of us to seek understanding as we continue our quest to become ONE NORTH OGDEN. It’s ok to disagree and I support Governor Cox’s request to “Disagree Better.” I challenge each of us to heed his recommendation here. Something that has helped many people to disagree better is the prayer that was written by Dr. Reinhold Nieber: God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can and the wisdom to know the difference.

We have an awesome community comprised of awesome citizens! There are no winners or losers, just good people trying to do their best. Let’s keep working together to become even better.

Mayor Neal Berube

CONNECT WITH US! We love hearing from you!

@northogdenconnectionutah www.northogdenconnection.com

Senior

Sales

Ann

City of North Ogden

Our City Council at Work

The City Council held its regular business meetings in April. Here are some of the significant actions that were taken:

♦ North Ogden City resident Reed Miller presented North Ogden Junior High School student Sam Kimball with a trophy and a $500.00 award for taking first place in the State of Utah Constitution Bee.

♦ The City Council held a Public Hearing to receive comments on proposed budget amendments for the Fiscal Year 2023-2024 budget. No public comment was received.

♦ Ordinance 2024-06, amending the Fiscal Year 20232024 budget, was unanimously approved.

♦ Ordinance 2024-07, the legislative amendment to rezone property for land located at approximately 281 East Pleasant View Drive from Century Farm Zone to Multifamily Residential (R-4), was passed on a 3 to 2 vote.

♦ Ordinance 2024-08, amending North Ogden Code Title 11-9M-8, D, 4 Accessory Buildings to remove the required 4/12 roof pitch for accessory buildings over two hundred (200) square feet in floor area was unanimously approved.

♦ Chief Quinney delivered an extensive presentation on the Flock System, followed by a questionand-answer session with the Council.

♦ The Council heard budget and costsaving recommendations from the Citizen Budget Subcommittee.

♦ The Finance Director provided a comprehensive review of the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 proposed budget. Increases in property taxes and various fees were discussed in detail with the recognition that adjustments can still be made before the final budget is approved.

♦ Mayor Berube presented the sales tax report, indicating a total of approximately $200,000 in revenue.

♦ Council Member Watson provided updates for the Administration and Recreation Departments: she reminded Citizens and Council Members that any matters for Agenda Items to be brought before the Council must have the approval of two Council Members before being added to the agenda.q

♦ Council Member Pulver provided updates on the Public Works Department noting that progress is being made on various infrastructure projects, particularly in stormwater management and road repairs.

BE A PART OF MEETINGS

City Council meetings are held the second and fourth Tuesday of every month, starting at 6 p.m. Work sessions are held as needed on the first Tuesdays of each month at 6 p.m. Visit northogdencity.com/meetings for changes.

Brian Eynon– Leading Our Community Forward as Chief of Police

BY KATIE GERARD

North Ogden City proudly welcomes Brian Eynon as its new Chief of Police, a seasoned law enforcement professional with a diverse background and a proven track record of service.

Chief Eynon joins us from Ogden City, where he held various respected positions, most recently serving as Captain to his prior positions as Lieutenant, Chief of Staff, Public Information Officer, Watch Commander, Patrol and Detectives Sergeant, Medical Examiner Investigator, Weber/Morgan Homicide Task Force Squad Leader, and more. His journey through the ranks reflects a deep commitment to excellence in law enforcement and demonstrates continual personal and professional growth.

Chief Eynon’s career began in 1996 when he signed on to serve with the Los Angeles Police Department as a patrol officer and narcotics investigator. In 2001, he served as a police training officer, K9 handler, and was a member of the SWAT team for the Cypress Police Department, and in 2005, Chief Eynon landed in Ogden City where he has spent the last two decades.

The selection process for the Chief of Police position was thorough and involved input from community members, the police department, and the city council. His appointment was approved by the city council on May 14, 2024, reflecting confidence in his leadership abilities and commitment to our community.

Chief Eynon recently expressed how having this opportunity to be the Chief of Police for North Ogden City is both humbling and exciting, and that he looks forward to serving the community and the members of the police department to the best of his ability:

“It is an honor to serve in my hometown of 20 years, where I raised my children and get to spend time with my grandchildren.”

Chief Eynon and his wife, Heidi, have raised three daughters, all of whom live in Utah.

We welcome him to our North Ogden City family and are excited to see the positive contributions he will bring to our community.

Employee Spotlight– Kara Mueller

BY KATIE GERARD

Kara Mueller began her career with North Ogden City in April 2022 in the patrol division. She is currently a certified drug recognition expert, one of our departments taser instructors, the assigned Public Information Officer, and a member of the Weber Metro CRASH Team responding to all serious and fatal accidents within Weber County. Kara was recently promoted to Sergeant and is a shining rockstar in our ranks!

Working the graveyard shift, her daily routine revolves around responding to high-priority calls and looking for in-progress crimes. Throughout the night, Sgt. Mueller and her team thoroughly patrol our community, ensuring the safety and security of our residents and their property. Together, they focus on intervening in situations involving impaired drivers, detecting suspicious activities, and preventing burglaries and thefts. Her efforts in removing impaired drivers have contributed to the increased safety of our roads.

“[I’m] proud of the people I work with and our ability to overcome challenges as a team. We’ve been through a lot within the past year and working alongside the officers I get to work with every day has made me a better person and a better officer. The team I work with amazes me.”

When Sgt. Mueller’s not on duty, she enjoys spending time outdoors, camping, fishing, hiking with her fiancé and spoiled dog, and planning trips to their favorite spot, West Yellowstone!

Her favorite thing about North Ogden is, “by far the people. From the citizens to the staff, we truly have the best of the best. We have been lucky here to have some amazing leaders who we’ve been able to learn from.” She enjoys interacting with the community and learning about what makes everyone who they are and hearing their different stories.

Kara’s contributions to our department only make our team better, and we’re lucky to have her leadership!

City Information City Directory

Registration Dates

Tackle Football

June 1st - June 15th***

COED 1st/2nd Grade Basketball

August 1st - August 15th***

Girls Basketball (3rd - 9th grade)

August 1st - August 15th***

Boys Basketball (3rd - 9th)

October 1st - October 15th***

Visit www.northogdencity.com for more detailed information about our programs.

Flood Zones

Questions regarding flood zones should be directed to Eric Casperson, City Engineer, at 801-782-7211.

FEMA flood maps are available for your review at the city offices. We also have elevation certificates.

Stay Connected!

The city's website www.northogdencity. com has information on every department in the city.

The Facebook page @NorthOgdenCityUtah has fun updates on events and other local interests.

Questions, Comments, Accolades?

Visit northogdencity.com/i-want-to/contact-us for information and community contacts.

MAYOR

Neal Berube: 801-686-0688, nberube@nogden.org

COUNCIL MEMBERS

Ryan Barker: 801-814-4306, rbarker@nogden.org

Blake Cevering: 801-549-8202, bcevering@nogden.org

Jay D. Dalpias: 385-405-6061, jddalpias@nogden.org

Chris Pulver: 801-906-3894 cpulver@nogden.org

Christina Watson: 410-610-8134 watson@nogden.org

CITY OFFICES AND CONTACTS

Building Official: 801-737-9031

Nate Davis ndavis@nogden.org

City Hall: 801-782-7211

City Manager/City Attorney: 801-737-9846

Jon Call jcall@nogden.org

City Recorder: 801-737-9830

Rian Santoro recorder@nogden.org

Human Resources Manager: 801-737-9835

Katie Gerard-Nelson kgerard@nogden.org

Parks & Recreation: 801-737-0587

Becca Godfrey bgodfrey@nogden.org

Justin Rasmussen jrasmussen@nogden.org

Planning: 801-737-9841

Scott Hess planning@nogden.org

Police: Business 801-782-7219

Non-Emergency Dispatch 801-395-8221

Emergency 911

Chief Dirk Quinney dquinney@nogden.org

Lieutenant Nate Boyette nboyette@nogden.org

Public Works: 801-782-8111

David Espinoza despinoza@nogden.org

Senior Center: 801-782-6211

Zella Richards

FEMA V-1008/December 2023

A power outage is when the electrical power is lost unexpectedly. Power outages . . . may disrupt communications, water utilities, and transportation for a long time.

BE

PREPARED FOR

A POWER OUTAGE

Power outages are more likely to occur during severe weather events, such as strong thunderstorms, hurricanes and winter storms, or other natural disasters, such as wildfires.

may cause businesses, stores, gas stations, ATMs, banks, schools and other services to close.

may cause food spoilage and water contamination. may cause injuries, disease or death, or prevent use of medical devices.

PROTECT YOURSELF FROM A POWER OUTAGE

Keep freezers and refrigerators closed.

Use generators outdoors and at least 20 feet away from building openings.

Stay fire safe. Do not use a gas stove to heat your home.

Unplug appliances and electronics to avoid damage from electrical surges.

Make a plan for refrigerating medicines and powering medical devices.

If safe, go to an alternate location for heat or cooling.

Keep mobile phones and electronic equipment charged before a power outage.

Navigating Land Use Permits: Knowing When and Why!

Navigating Land Use Permits: In North Ogden City, land use permits play a crucial role in ensuring that property development aligns with the guidelines set forth in the city's Zoning Code. But what exactly are these permits for, and when do you need one?

Land use permits serve as a vital checkpoint for property owners embarking on various construction or modification projects. Whether it's erecting a fence, installing a shed, or adding concrete to your lot, obtaining a land use permit is essential. These permits act as a safeguard, ensuring that proposed developments meet the requirements outlined by North Ogden City's Zoning Code.

One of the primary objectives of land use permits is to balance the interests of property owners, neighbors, and the broader community. By adhering to the regulations laid out in the Zoning Code, these permits help maintain harmony and cohesion within residential and commercial areas.

When exactly do you need a land use permit? Let's break it down:

• Accessory Buildings: If you’re planning to construct an accessory building up to 199 sq.feet in size, you’ll need a land use permit. However, any accessory building exceeding 200 sq. feet requires a building permit instead.

• Adding Impermeable Surfaces: Whether it’s a new driveway or additional pavement, securing a permit when adding these types of surfaces ensures compliance with zoning regulations.

• Fence Installation: Let’s make sure the fence’s location, height, and design meet the regulations outlined in the Zoning Code.

Before you begin your project, we need the following information to process an application:

• Lot Details: Provide a simple drawn plan with sq. footage of the lot intended for construction. Indicate the size and precise location of any existing buildings or structures on the property.

• Concrete and Asphalt Specifications: Include the sq. footage of any existing concrete or asphalt surfaces on the lot and any proposed concrete or asphalt that will be added as part of the project.

• Building Footprint: Outline the sq. footage of the existing building footprint, and if you’re proposing new structures, provide detailed plans and dimensions, including height specifications.

• Site Plan: Provide a detailed site plan with the dimensions of the proposed project and mark the distances from property lines to ensure compliance with setback requirements.

You’re almost done, just a few more steps!

• Additional Site-Specific Information: Are there any other relevant details to the proposed project (environmental considerations, access points, etc.)?

By following these steps and submitting a comprehensive application, property owners can expedite the approval process for their land use permits.

If you have any questions regarding land use permits, zoning, or planning, please contact a member of the North Ogden City Planning Department at 801-737-9841.

Text North Ogden City

Find Information & Report Issues

Skip a phone call and use your mobile phone's text messaging service to quickly access information and report issues.

Simply text the word Hi to the city’s smart texting number or send a message containing keywords relevant to your request, such as: UTILITY SERVICE, EVENTS, BOWERY RENTALS, COUNCIL, STREET LIGHT OUTAGE, BROKEN CAN, PAVILION DAMAGE, or SIGN DAMAGE.

24/7 Texting Service

Smart texting technology identifies keywords texted in to provide immediate assistance. It can relay information back to you or guide you through a few steps to submit a report.

Started

▪ After the initial keyword is sent to join the text message notification list, you will receive a confirmation message asking you to reply YES to verify opt-in ▪ You may receive up to 6 text alert notifications a month. Notifications may include :

Sam Kimball Triumphs at State Constitution Bee

By Reed Miller

Recently, the statewide Constitution Bee was held at the State Capitol Rotunda in Salt Lake City. Sam Kimball, a 7th grader at North Ogden Junior High, and his 4-member team competed against 9th graders, taking 1st place in the Junior High Division. 17 teams, from Draper to Tremonton, competed.

The purpose of the Constitution Bee is to help students learn the details of the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the Amendments to the Constitution.

Several months before the competition, students form teams of four. Two teams compete against each other, with 18 questions in a round. When a student knows an answer, he or she pushes a buzzer. The first to answer the question correctly gets 10 points. The team with the most points at the end of the 18-question term wins.

After 5 rounds, Sam’s team was undefeated. Sam was a key player on the team (even competing against 9th graders). In round 6, Sam’s team faced the only other undefeated team

Left to right: Leah Christensen (Clinton), Lewis Krauss (Pleasant View), Sam Kimball (North Ogden), Taylor Wimmer (Tremonton), and Reed Miller.

FUN THINGS TO DO

Thursdays: North Ogden Community Band Rehearsals Come join us if you’ve played before. Special need for procussionist and clarinet players. For more info, email jepsenl2665@gmail.com

Public Safety Building, Court Rm. 7 p.m.

Jun 1: Weber Basin Garden Fair 2837 E. Hwy. 193, Layton weberbasin.gov 8 a.m.–2 p.m.

Jun 1-2: Ogden Music Festival Fort Buenaventura, $25–185

Jun 1, 15: Ice Sheet Free RAMP 4390 Harrison Blvd. 12–2 p.m.

Jun 1-Jun 29: Birdhouse Exhibit Ogden Nature Center 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

Jun 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Ogden Nature Center Free RAMP 9 a.m.–4 p.m.

Jun 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Ogden Farmers

Market Historic 25th Street 8 a.m.–1 p.m.

Jun 5: Meet County Caucus Winners

Orion JHS 6 p.m.

Jun 6, 13, 20, 27: Food Truck League No. Ogden Park 2705 N. 550 E. 5–8 p.m.

Jun 6: GOAL Community Hike

Malans First Outlook via 29th Street Trailhead, Ogden 6–8 p.m.

Jun 7: Car Show Historic 25th Street Downtown Ogden 5–9 p.m.

Jun 7: Annual North Ogden

Summer Jazz Festival Barker Park Amphitheatre 7 p.m.

Jun 7: First Friday Art Stroll Downtown Ogden 6–9 p.m.

Jun 7: Open Studio Night!

The Monarch, 455 25th Street 6–9 p.m.

Jun 8, 13, 22, 27: Weber

Basin Free Landscape Classes

Register at weberbasin.gov

Jun 8: Treehouse Children’s Museum Free RAMP, RSVP req. 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

Jun 8: Dinosaur Park

Free RAMP 4–8 p.m.

Jun 8: Terrace Days Fireworks Rohmer Park, Washington Terrace 10 p.m.

Jun 12: Jazz at the Station

Union Station, Ogden 7 p.m.

Jun 15: Museums at Union Station

Free RAMP 11 a.m.–4 p.m.

Jun 15: WSU Ott Planetarium

Free RAMP 12–4 p.m.

Jun 15: Peery’s Egyptian Theater

Free RAMP Children’s

Movie 12 & 3 p.m.

Jun 15, 29: BSA Ropes Challenge

Course Free RAMP 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Jun 21: A Century of Cinema and Song Peery’s Egyptian Theater 12:30 p.m.

Jun 22: Fort Buenaventura

Free RAMP 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Jun 22: Lorin Farr Pool

Free RAMP 12–6 p.m.

Jun 22: Ogden Twilight Concert

Cannons Ogden Amphitheater 5 p.m.

Jun 29: North Shore Pool

Free RAMP 11 a.m.–6 p.m.

WEEKLY ACTIVITIES

Mon: Tai Chi 10:30 a.m. STEAM Club 2 p.m.

Tues: Mindfulness 10:30 a.m.

Youth Game Club 4 p.m.

Thurs: Discovery Time 10:30 & 11:30 a.m.

Fri: Yoga for Families 10:30 a.m.

ACTIVITIES

Jun 3: Teen Scene DnD 6:30 p.m.

Jun 4: Craft Pom Pom Garland 7 p.m.

Jun 5: Child Summer Reading 10:30 a.m.

Jun 10: Teen Summer Reading 7 p.m.

Jun 11: Adult Book Discussion

Ordinary Grace 7 p.m.

Jun 13: SYNKOFA Celtic Jazz 7

SENIOR CENTER

Lunch Mon.–Fri. 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

Mondays

Ceramics 8:30 a.m.

Beginner Line Dance 9 a.m.

Intermediate Line Dance 10 a.m.

Computer/Tap Dance Class 1 p.m.

Tuesdays

Self Defense for Seniors 9 a.m.

Art 9:30 a.m.

Intermediate Line Dance 10 a.m.

Beginner’s Tap 1:30 p.m.

Wednesdays

Wood Carving/Billiards/Bridge 9 a.m.

Tai Chi 9 a.m.

Intermediate Line Dance 10 p.m.

Games/Beginner Line Dance 12:30 p.m.

Thursdays

Billiards/Tap Dance 1 p.m.

Dinner & Program 5 p.m.

Fridays Ceramics 8:30 a.m.

Bridge 9 a.m.

Yoga 10 a.m.

Jun 3: Hair Cuts $5 10 a.m.

Jun 3: Second Generation Band 11 a.m.

Jun 6, 20: Blood Pressure Clinic 4 p.m.

Jun 6: Emerg. Preparedness 5:30 p.m.

Jun 12: Foot Clinic 10 a.m.

Jun 13: Cowboy Poetry 5:30 p.m.

Jun 15: Gary Romer Dance 7 p.m.

Jun 18: Medicare Moment 11:30 a.m.

Jun 20: Game Night 5:30 p.m

Jun 21: Senior Picnic (Tickets) 11:30 a.m.

Jun 27: Bingo 5:30 p.m.

Jun 19: Astronaut Camp 1:30 p.m.

Jun 19: In Stitches 7 p.m.

Jun 20: Tech Lab Lego Robotics 6:30 p.m.

Jun 22: Camping at the Library 1 p.m.

Jun 24: NASA Telescope 6:30 p.m.

Jun 24: Teen Scene RockHounding 7 p.m.

Jun 27: Art Class Chalk Pastels 7 p.m.

We bet you love summer as much as we do! Summer is such a fun season to spend quality time with our families and to get lots of vitamin D. Here is our annual summer fun check list. Have fun creating memories!!!

Eat watermelon … Go to the rodeo … Play Uno or favorite card game … Set up a lemonade stand … Eat ice cream … Go hammocking … Hit some golf balls … Go frisbee (disc) golfing … Go to farmers market … Climb a tree … Do a craft … Go ice blocking … Play sand volleyball

Buy paints, brushes and plain paper. Have the kids wear old shirts and paint away.

T-ball in the back yard or park … Kickball in back yard or park

Monday “Family Movie Nights" with popcorn & treats. Watch all the series such as Kung Fu Panda, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Harry Potter, etc. … Make homemade play dough. (See QR Code below)

Paint fingernails/toenails … Water balloon fights

Friday fun day … Go on a hike … Play in the park … Photo shoots with your kids or friends using phone camera … Sleep in the back yard under the stars … Run in a 5k … Go to a parade … Go on a bike ride … Go fishing … Buy or pick pretty flowers from your yard and place in a vase to enjoy … Roast s’mores around a fire pit … Go swimming … Build a fort with sheets and pillows … Go to a baseball game … Face paints … Go to an amusement park … Float on a river … Have baking lessons, make cookies, cakes and bread … Date nights with your kiddos or grandkids (quality time) … Night games … Read books … Serve a neighbor (yard work, bring them a treat, say hi, invite over for game night, etc) … Play in the rain … Go thrifting … Make root-beer floats … Go for a long drive & explore new areas … Watch fireworks

Remove this page and place on a wall, bulletin board, or fridge. How many can you check off this summer?

Swim & play in sand at Bear Lake or Pine View Reservoir

Jump on trampoline with sprinkler underneath … Make homemade sand.

(See QR Code below)

northogdenconnection.com/summer-fun-recipes

With Love and Gratitude to Our Dads

BY MELISSA & RYAN SPELTS

—MELISSA & HER DAD—

My parents moved a lot in their married life. 21 times is what we counted a few years back. My dad was a CPA but longed for adventure and seeing life outside of Utah. I was number three of seven children and we all were part of these moves. We lived in Hartsell Alabama, Macon Georgia, Sacramento California, Las Vegas Nevada, and many places in Utah (Southern to Northern). It was fun, hard, and even educational. We grew close as a family. My dad was a super hard-worker, full of integrity, and loved his family very much. We all watched him as he held our mom’s hand every time they were together. He always helped with Saturday morning chores; this was our deep clean day. We divided, some of us doing inside chores and the rest doing outside chores. We grew up hearing “many hands make light work.” After our chores were done, we would do something fun as a family. I have many fond memories of playing in the red sand dunes in Southern Utah or of long drives exploring back roads in Alabama and Georgia. My dad was always so sweet to my mother. This is what helped me know what to look for in a husband. My dad would take mom on dates as often as they could. He would surprise her with quick trips somewhere on special anniversaries. There was a feeling that it didn’t matter what they were doing if they were together. I grew up knowing that I wanted this in a husband.

When I was 15 years old, I worked for my parents in Brigham City, Utah. They had their own business doing Physician Billing, his business was called Michael E. Miller and Company,

Dad

(n.) 1. father, guardian, protector, carer, friend 2. teacher, mentor, coach, task master, listener 3. sports fanatic, mower man, king of corny jokes, biggest tease, taxi, bank, part-time fun guy, part-time fun police 4. tough on the outside, soft in the middle 5. someone you can lean on.

Healthline Physician Billing. All my siblings helped where we could; I’m so grateful for the lessons I learned while working for him. We cleaned the office, emptied trash cans, stuffed envelopes with patient’s bills, licked the stamps and envelops (Did you know that there are calories in those envelops and stamps? My sisters and I were not very happy when we learned that), took payment batches to the bank, etc. It was a neverending job, but I loved being there with my family. My dad was a quiet man. Not shy, just quiet. One afternoon it was time to go home after work and it was just Dad and I there at the office. We locked up everything and climbed into his big red Ford truck. The radio was off, and we had a 12-minute drive to Honeyville. I looked outside and watched the community going and doing. We drove the whole time in complete silence. Even though a word wasn’t uttered, I felt so much love from my dad and I loved him. I felt safe in that spot.

A couple years after Ryan and I were married in 1999 we had our first child, a boy we named Koby. I wish I could put into words the change in Ryan’s eyes when he held him for the first time. That amount of love comes with lots of emotions.

A desire to protect, care for, teach, and love. Ryan has been a great dad too. There are no perfect parents, just parents that try right? My dad passed away from brain cancer last 4th of July. He battled it for 20 years. If your dad is still around, give him the BIGGEST hug. Listen and learn all you can from him. Life is too short to take him for granted.

Melissa (on far right) with her Dad and 6 siblings.

—RYAN & HIS DAD—

I remember my dad had this brown metallic paint GMC pickup truck that had to be the coolest truck in all of Henderson, Nevada at the time. I wish we still had that truck; it was so cool. I had a childlike awe about that truck and loved riding with my dad in it and often did. Whenever I hear about people with their non-existent dads, I realize that I must have been very lucky. My dad was always there. He worked hard for our family, he served in our community, he served in our church and he even came to my games. Now, don’t get me wrong, for a long time I didn’t think my dad even liked me because he seemed to always be mad at me, but now that I have teenagers of my own, I can relate.

My dad has an eternal reservoir of information tumbling around in his brain. He can fix nearly anything, and he can build things and he can tell you what business is moving in or out of nearly any building in the greater Las Vegas area. He is a news-aholic and always seemed to know everything about anything you could imagine. I always marveled at how many facts and figures he knew about. There was a time when I thought my dad was smarter than Google and Google didn’t even exist yet.

Today, thinking back, my dad was always a constant in my life. He never shirked his duty as a dad. I never felt abandoned or unloved. Maybe a little underappreciated at times, but again, teenagers! He worked mostly in the financial industry with a degree in Accounting; he worked in banking and in insurance but has finished his career as a tax auditor for the State of Nevada. I did take an accounting class at his advice. I remember about three weeks into the course, I called my dad and said, “This is what you do for a living! This is the worst thing I have ever done.” He laughed at me

Listen and learn all you can from him. Life is too short to take him for granted.

and told me to stick it out. I did and I am not sure I changed my opinion much regarding accounting.

My dad taught me some powerful principles though. I remember when we moved into a new house. We had to put the yard in ourselves. I oversaw digging the sprinkler ditches in the very rocky Nevada soil. It was very hot, and I wanted to come in for a drink about every five minutes. He would tell me to finish a row before I took a break. He taught me to not get distracted every few minutes and to get work done before taking a break. I learned to be a hard worker from him.

One quote that always stuck with me that my dad said to me many times in my youth was,

“What’s right is right even if no one is doing it and what’s wrong is wrong even if everyone is doing it.” I tell this same quote to my children to this day and it is a guiding light to me when making decisions.

I am grateful for the example my dad has been to me and the lessons I have learned from him. I am also grateful that I can speak to him still to this day.

Young Ryan and his Dad.

Ryan, his Dad and two sons.

Below photo: Ryan reading to his children.

Right photo: Ryan and his five children

Saluting Our Service Members: Military Spotlight McCall Dalpias

By Ann Park

Our community is proud to recognize McCall Dalpias, a senior graduating this year from Weber High School. McCall has put in an extraordinary amount of hard work and has been accepted into the United States Air Force Academy.

“I’m excited to go. This has been a dream of mine for a long time,” McCall says. “My older brother is attending the academy now. He’ll be a senior when I am a freshman.”

The requirements for the Air Force Academy are strict. They require academic excellence, with a focus on science and math, as well as athletic

achievement. Not to mention a nomination from a congressman.

“The application was the longest one I’ve ever done, and you have several interviews.” Only a limited number of nominations are allowed for each state.

The school is generally about 70% male students, but this year, Utah is sending 5 girls and 3 guys.

McCall was drawn to the Air Force Academy. “I wanted more than just an average college experience. I’m kind of an adrenaline junky, and I’m excited for the chance to jump out of a plane.”

McCall’s dad works as a civilian for the Air Force, so she was raised moving around frequently, attended military schools, and lived on military bases. She enjoys new people and new places. “I love experiencing different cultures.”

During the next four years, McCall intends to focus her studies on Aeronautical Engineering. She has already developed a high level of discipline to prepare. “I studied 3 hours a day all last summer. No matter where we were or what we were doing, I still kept my commitment to prepare for the

S.A.T.” In addition to studying, McCall’s high-school athletic career included track and cross-country running, with a healthy dose of upper body workouts to prepare for pull-ups and push-ups included in the fitness tests from the Air Force. “It’s difficult to get in, because it’s not just about academics, you also need to be physically fit.”

McCall’s long-term goal is to become a pilot. A large majority of graduates from the Air Force Academy become pilots, and funding is available for grad school and flight school. “My dream is to fly fighter jets. I love the thought of being able to serve my country while improving myself and getting a good education. I enjoy the opportunity to improve my leadership skills, and I’m excited for all the opportunities ahead.”

Help us honor a military member! Know of a military member that deserves recognition? Submit nominations to be featured here at connectionpub.com/military or info@majorbrenttaylor.com majorbrenttaylorfoundation

McCall when she was 3-years old flying with Air Force Pilots

McCall Dalpias

Been wanting to buy your suppressor?

ATF forms are coming back in record time!

www.fortifyid-prints.com

Stop by XTEK and we’ll help answer your questions and get the process started. Make

- State of Utah (BCI) Fingerprinting

- FBI Background Check

- ATF/FFL Fingerprinting

- SWFT Fingerprinting

- Mobile Fingerprinting

- FBI Apostille Services

- Print-to-Card Services

- Passport Photos

Notary

Karen DeVries Retires After 50 Years of Service at Bank of Utah.

After an esteemed 50-year career, Karen DeVries bidded farewell to Bank of Utah on March 27. As the executive assistant for the commercial lending team, headquartered in Ogden, DeVries leaves behind a legacy of professionalism, dedication, and unwavering commitment.

Frank Browning, chairman of the board for Bank of Utah, fondly reminisces about his early days at the bank, reflecting on DeVries’ steadfast presence since he started at the age of 16. “She is a great person and an exceptional employee. She is very productive, and her people skills have earned her the respect and admiration of everyone who has had the privilege of working with her,” Browning said.

Liz Warner, Bank of Utah’s vice president of CRA (Community Reinvestment Act) and lending compliance officer, echoed those sentiments, emphasizing DeVries’ unparalleled dedication to customer service. “Karen is always willing to go above and beyond for our customers,” Warner said. “I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve been with her when she’s received a phone call from a bank customer. Even

though she’s not at the bank in those moments, she makes sure to listen and take care of their needs. She is never too busy to be available to assist the customers. She is kind and caring.”

“When I first started in the check filing department, I didn’t think I’d be at Bank of Utah for more than five years — it ended up being 50,” said DeVries. “Because of the people, the challenge of the job and opportunity for advancement, it became home for me. The Browning family has been exceptionally nice to me, as well as all of the mentors and leaders who have made me who I am today — they are like family. I can’t imagine myself at any other place.”

Over her years at the bank, DeVries has supported five leaders in charge of lending. Today, her experience holds special significance. Having honed her skills under the guidance of Michael Fosmark, a former chief lending officer for Bank of Utah, she now finds herself working with his son, Brady Fosmark, the bank’s current chief lending officer.

This full-circle experience speaks volumes about the

enduring relationships she’s fostered within the bank.

A pillar of support throughout her tenure, DeVries has offered not only her expertise to colleagues but also her positivity. Her commitment is evident in her punctuality (arriving bright and early daily at 7:15 a.m.), and she never misses a bank event. Warner further praises DeVries’ adaptability to evolving technologies and her invaluable contributions to Bank of Utah’s success. Highlighting DeVries’ warmth and positive influence, Warner said, “She knows how to do her job and does it well. Her proficiency in her role is unmatched, and her friendly presence — accompanied by M&Ms on her desk and Wintergreen Lifesavers at lending committee meetings — will be missed.”

As DeVries embarks on her welldeserved retirement, her colleagues express both happiness for her new chapter and a sense of loss at her departure. “She’s made the bank a better place. Bank of Utah is great, and Karen has been a great part of it,” Browning said.

Kristy Pack Honored in Utah Business 40 Under 40

Island Style Kanak Attack

"Kanak Attack" is a Hawaiian, Pidgin-English term used to describe the feeling of overeating, often leading to a foodinduced nap, similar to the post-Thanksgiving "Turkey Coma."

Our family recently made the move from our island home in Hawaii to Utah. Before coming here, I had never heard of "Hawaiian Haystacks" or understood why cooked pineapple could make a dish "Hawaiian." As a local boy from the Aloha state, food is a massive part of our culture and identity.

Before diving into the cooking, let's explore some culinary history. Much Hawaiian cuisine is "plantation food," a fusion of the various cultures that migrated to the islands in the late 1800s. The main groups were Japanese, Chinese, Filipino, and Portuguese. These influences, blended with American and Hawaiian culture, make up our current island cuisine.

Here are three authentic dishes from my island home. All ingredients can be purchased from your local grocery store and or Ocean Mart (Located in Ogden and Roy)

BY MICAH KIYOMASA HIROKAWA

Kalua Pig

Main Dish (Hawaiian, only people in the mainland say, Kalua Pork)

Ingredients:

1 large Pork Roast (bone-in is much more tender)

Rock Salt

Table Salt

Banana Leaves

Mesquite Liquid Smoke or Wood Chips (In Hawaii, they use Kiawe wood, a similar flavor to Mesquite)

Instructions:

1. Prepare your crockpot by lining it with banana leaves. (Ocean Mart has them in their frozen section)

2. Rub the pork roast in the pot with a small amount of liquid smoke, or you can smoke the roast in a smoker at 225° for 1 hour using Mesquite wood chips before transferring it to the crockpot (when using liquid smoke, use disposable gloves).

3. Place the pork roast fat side up in the crockpot and lightly sprinkle rock salt on the fat.

4. Cover the top of the roast with more banana leaves.

5. Cook the roast in the crockpot on low for 10 hours (9 hours if you smoked it beforehand)

6. Carefully remove the roast from the crockpot and transfer it to a mixing bowl. It should be very tender and fall apart easily.

7. Add 1-2 cups of the crockpot drippings to the mixing bowl. The amount you add will determine how oily the final dish is.

8. Season the pork with table salt to taste and continue to mix. Add warm water if it’s too dry.

9. Serve this dish with rice or poi.

Ahi Poke

Pūpū/Appetizer (Japanese, American, Hawaiian)

Ingredients:

2-3 cups Frozen Ahi Cubes, semi-frozen for easier cutting

1 Japanese Cucumber, peeled, seeds removed, and diced (Any cucumber is fine)

2 medium Tomatoes, seeds removed and diced

1 White Onion, diced (Yellow is fine too)

1 Tbsp. Minced Garlic

Imitation Crab, cut into 1/4-inch chunks

1 Tbsp. Sesame Seed Oil

2-3 Tbsp. Furikake Seasoning, Nori Komi

1 Tbsp. Red Chili Flakes (optional)

1/2 - 1 cup Teriyaki Sauce (I use Veri Veri Teriyaki)

1 bunch Green Onions, chopped Roasted Sesame Seeds

Instructions:

1. Place 2-3 cups of frozen ahi cubes in a large mixing bowl. Cut them into 1/4-inch cubes.

2. Peel and dice the Japanese cucumber, then add 1 cup to the bowl.

3. Dice the tomatoes after removing the seeds, then add them to the bowl.

4. Dice half of a white onion and add it to the bowl.

5. Add 1 Tbsp. minced garlic to the bowl.

6. Cut the imitation crab into 1/4-inch chunks, then add it to the bowl.

7. Drizzle 1 Tbsp. sesame seed oil over the ingredients in the bowl.

8. Sprinkle 2-3 Tbsp. of furikake seasoning over the ingredients.

9. Add 1 Tbsp. of red chili flakes (optional) for a spicy kick.

10. Pour 1/2 cup of your favorite teriyaki sauce over the ingredients, adjusting to taste.

11. Mix all the ingredients well, ensuring they are evenly coated with the sauce and seasonings.

12. Garnish the poke salad with chopped green onions and roasted sesame seeds.

13. Serve the poke alone, on rice, or with my favorite, Fritos Scoops chips.

Malasadas Desert (Portuguese)

Ingredients:

Pillsbury dinner rolls or biscuits (not Grands)

Canola oil

White sugar

Cinnamon Paper bag

Instructions:

1. Heat canola oil in a deep pot to 350-375 degrees (closer to 350 is better).

2. Open the dinner rolls or biscuits and flatten each piece to about 1/4 inch thick.

3. Use your finger to poke a small hole in the center of each flattened piece.

4. Carefully add the flattened dough to the hot oil and fry until golden brown.

5. Remove the fried dough and place it on a cooling rack.

6. Once the fried dough has slightly cooled, add it to a paper bag containing white sugar or a mixture of sugar and cinnamon.

7. Shake the bag to coat the fried dough in the sugar mixture.

8. Eat while they’re still hot!

Our June recipes come to us from Micah Kiyomasa Hirokawa.