Enjoying "Mi Puebla" in Mi Ciudad (My City)

Some co-workers of mine invited me to lunch with them today at a Mexican Restaurant on 26th Street. The name of the establishment is Mi Puebla. I thought to give it a try and was very much impressed. The restaurant has been around for about four years. They serve authentic Mexican food at a very reasonable price.
I ordered two tacos (one from pork and the other lengua). The cost of my meal was 4.oo and it was fantastic. Others in my party ordered such things as chopped beef (bistec) and enchiladas. No one's meal cost more than 8.00- and this is daily prices, not a lunch menu.
Having eaten at other authentic restaurants in other cities, I can say that this was fabulous. The meats were tender and well seasoned. They also offer a variety of beverages from classic sodas to latin drinks (horchata and tamarindo) to mixed latin drinks (margaritas, etc.)
Mi Puebla is located on 26th Street between Monroe and Harrison (I can't remember the exact cross street). It on the east end of a building that is a small market and bakery. Though the atmosphere is not what you see when you visit Garcia's or other chain type Mexican restaurant, this is what true Mexican restaurants are supposed to look like. I was happy to learn about this restaurant and am certain that I will be a return customer.

Taking Ogden for Granted

A few weeks ago, I recieved a phone call. It was from a local (South Ogden) business. The business is a relatively new athletic club. Just for answering the phone, I was given an opportunity to tour their facility and receive a free two week membership at their facility. The tour was conducted by a woman who had recently come to Utah from Michigan. During the tour, she mentioned that one of the aerobic classes is held outdoors when weather permits. She pitched, "So you can have a beautiful view of the mountains." Almost apologetically, she added, "Sorry, but coming from Michigan, I really think that these mountains are spectacular- you probably are so used to seeing them, it doesn't really make a difference."
That has got me thinking since then about my attitude toward where we live. Countless times (both on blogs and off) I hear people comment on the scenic views to be had in Ogden. It is truly something that I occasionally take for granted. At the same time, it is something that I feel passionately about. This area of the Wasatch Front is without a doubt one of the most scenic. We have two beautiful canyons, two fabulous mountain peaks of prominence (Mt. Ogden and Ben Lomond) and mountains that are rocky in some spots and tree-lined in others.
Maybe its because of that passion that we can get so caught up in these "healthy" debates.
I just hope that in our zeal to see this area be the best it can be, that we don't miss the forest for the trees- or in this case, the valley for the mountains.

Ring the Bell...

...school's in session. Like it or not, Ogden City Schools began their first day of school today. I personally have mixed emotions. I was not one of those kids who really hated school. In fact, I really kind of liked it. I remember always having such wonderful teachers. Despite the difficulty of the school work, I still can picture everyone of my teachers being there for one reason- students. Each year, my teachers would come to school and put up with everything for us. There was no pretense, no hidden agenda, and no desire to lead kids astray with all manner of evils. True, that may exist in other states, but I grew up in Utah, and, despite the cries of the ultra-conservatives that there is a conspiracy to teach our children that God does not exist and that Joseph Smith was a criminal (as allegedly happened in the Weber District last year), I believe that MOST teachers are really in school for the benefit of the students.
Maybe that's why I spent a few years as a school teacher. Granted, the two months of summer vacation were nice, but for those four years that I taught school, I worked my fanny off during the school year. I left teaching, because I felt that the school system failed me as an educator, but as a whole, I feel that schools are doing pretty darn well for what they have to deal with- low pay, crowded classrooms, politics (ie No Child Left Behind), and parents who are so caught up in their own lives, they don't give a darn about what goes on at their child's school... Of course, that is until their little "angel" gets accused of some wrongdoing upon which said parent marches to the school to defend their children in a manner that would make Perry Mason shake in his wing-tips.
But I digress... Suffice it to say, I would challenge all of you to recommit yourself to making the school system a bit better place this year- not by electing a specific person or hiring pre-paid legal for when little Johnny inevitably winds up in the principal's office. Rather, make the extra attempt this week to really get to know your child's- or children's (heck, it's Utah)- teacher(s). Give them an email address and write to them once in a while to let them know how things are for your child at home. (Come on, you're all here reading this which means you're computer savvy enough to know what a blog is.) Ask what you can do within the classroom. If you can arrange at least one hour or so a month to help with something, that will be a tremendous boost to your teacher.
Regardless of what you do, just have an open line of communication with the teacher. Having been on that side of the fence, er classroom, trust me- it'll do as much, if not more to assist your child's education than any tutor- or lawyer, for that matter.

The Worst Four Letter Word

I grew up in a strictly religious home. I remember the first time I let a swear word slip out of my mouth near my mother. She was beyond flabbergasted- she was furious. Before I could say anything in my defense, she had marched me to the bathroom and had me rubbing soap on my tongue. The taste was one I won't forget- neither was the lesson. Despite learning the certain "four letter words" that I shouldn't repeat, I think Mom neglected to teach me about the worst four letter word- HATE.
"Traditional" profanity, for the most part, is just that- profane words. The purpose for profanity is to shock and create a sense of power. Hatred, on the other hand, is something much deeper, and with a greater power for destruction- to society and individuals alike. It's not something which is outwardly acknowleged, and at first, it isn't easy to detect in oneself. If unchecked, however, this plague can spread like a contagious cancer, first attacking and destroying the original host, but swiftly moving into and consuming numerous other hosts.
The scary thing is that society is now making hatred more and more acceptable. Political correctness hasn't taken care of hatred, in fact, it's opened up greater avenues for hatred to take root. It's sad to see the seeds of hatred being sown in our very own society. On a global scale, I see the contempt that people have for others. Islamic extremists truly hate Western Culture. Michael Moore and other "left-wing liberals" loathe President Bush and the current administration. On the flip side, I see the utter contempt that conservative "right-wing radicals" have for Ted Kennedy, the Clintons, and others in their camp. Locally, I weary of hearing the utter hatred that some have for Ogden's administration.
Where's it going to end, folks? Are we going to continue it down the line until husbands and wives have a genuine hatred for each other and family members publicly share contempt for each other? (I have friends who work with victims of domestic violence and believe me- it's a lot more prevalent than most think it is.)
I work with a woman who has allowed hatred to become a central part of her life. She hates her job (even though she is one of the highest paid employees on payroll), she hates her neighborhood, she hates many of her coworkers. The other day, I overheard her say that she wouldn't be sad if her live in boyfriend died. (This was two sentences after saying that they have plans to be married in about a year or so). I feel sorry for this woman. I feel sorry that her life is so miserable. I feel even more sorry that she is not the only one out there with this attitude.
Lest some think that I am being contrary to the self-proclaimed title of "optimist", realize that I share this to give hope. We can combat this disease of hatred. We as individuals and as a society can overcome the shadow of despair that seems so prevalent in today's world. But no one can turn that corner for you. Each person has to make up his or her own mind to be positive.
Some of you might be wondering what this has to do with Ogden. Everything!! If you feel that the city council is being unfair, or ignorant, or outrageous- fight the urge to HATE them for it. Instead, DO SOMETHING!! If you feel your rights are being infringed upon- work to restore those rights. Hating takes up way too much energy.
My point can be best summed up by a quote I heard six months ago"
"Carrying a grudge (and, I would add, hating another) is like renting out space to them in your mind- and they don't have to pay rent!!"
Start being a landlord for your mind today- collect the rent, or evict them from your mind!!

Feeling Italian

As part of a "series" I started a few posts back, I have decided to take another opportunity to spotlight one of Ogden's great restaurants. Lately, there have been popular Italian restaurant chains advertising on the radio and television to come and experience their cuisine. One even uses the slogan, "When you're here, you're family." No statement was ever more true for a locally owned Italian restaurant, La Ferrovia.
Located on 25th Street (right next door to "Everwood City Hall"), La Ferrovia has got to be, in my opinion, one of the greatest Italian restaurants in the land. A few years ago while my wife and I were eating at the restaurant, we had the opportunity to ask the owner a little about what got her started. Originally from Naples, she moved with her family to the Utah. She enjoyed cooking and felt it natural to open a restaurant. La Ferrovia began in the Union Station, but moved to 25th Street some years later (the name of the restaurant has reference to the railroad, though at the moment I can't remember the exact translation of the word). I have yet to see a time when she doesn't make the rounds to see how all of her customers are doing on the nights that she is working. It truly makes you feel special to know that the owner is looking out for your satisfaction.
The cusine at the restaurant is fabulous. One of the signature items on the menu is the house italian dressing. Made from carrots, it is a delicious addition to any salad. In my opinion, perhaps the best item on the menu are the calzones. You can order them stuffed with spinach, various meats, and occasionally, seafood. Each calzone is a golden brown covered with the house marinara sauce and completely covering your plate. At a price of just more than eight dollars, you definitely get your money's worth. Dessert choices cover the typical fare, including supmoni, a delicious ice cream made locally by Farr's.
If you're in the mood for italian, check out La Ferrovia. You may just walk away wishing you could be adopted.

Musicians Have Changed...

A few years ago, I was asked to gather together a group of people to form a choir for a church presentation. As a fairly new person in the neighborhood, I went about the daunting task- asking members of the local congregation if they would be willing to sing in this production. I approached one gentleman in his 50's. He sings bass very well and I was hoping to recruit him for the task. He said, "I've lived in this area for almost 30 years. We've tried putting together choirs. You're never going to be able to do it." I was a bit disheartened, but stuck to the charge at hand. I approached nearly everyone in that congregation, regardless of singing talent. There were others, though not as vocal as the first person, who also felt that my recruitments were attempts in futility. Well, I gathered together a small choir of sixteen. We struggled some and had some difficulties along the way. They weren't perfect, but those who charged me with the task declared success after viewing the performance. The gentleman who had earlier dismissed my attempts even approached me, pleased at what he had witnessed.
As I have been made more aware of the goings on in Ogden in recent years, I have come across many who have been here much longer than I have been on this earth. Much like my neighbor, they look at some of the new ideas being brought out and say, "We've tried this already." Others say, "Well, such and such didn't work, why should this work?" I would be dishonest if I didn't say that these comments dishearten me somewhat. I am reminded, however of my experience with the choir. True, there have been similar attempts made. But there are new people making new attempts with new ideas.
That is part of the (forgive my reference to Disney) "Circle of Life". Life requires new blood to come in and attempt new things- or at least attempt the old things with a new vigilance. As in ages past, the seasoned will remind the rookies that it has been done before. And as in ages past, the unexperienced will give passing acknowledgement that the veterans are there. Despite the frustration from both points of view, the world keeps moving, time marches on, and hopefully, a mutual respect is retained.
Musicians continually change, but the tune remains the same. Find a good spot on the grass, because the concert of life shows no signs of a finale.

Shave & a Haircut...

In light of my previous post, I thought that I would occasionally showcase some of Ogden's small businesses that I have personally found to be exceptional (ie. Good deal for goods & services, overcoming tremendous odds, revitalizing an existing building, etc.)
Keep in mind, these will come from my own experience and I will do my best to give the businesses a fair plug. This is in no way intended to exclude or scruitnize other businesses. If you choose to post a reply based on these businesses, please be fair.
One local business that has done well is the Corner Barber Shop. The barbershop is on the corner of 12th and Monroe. They have been in business for about a year now and appear to be doing well. One attractive draw to their services is the price of a haircut- 5 bucks. (And you thought you could only get a pizza for that price). Oh... and as a bonus-- After four haircuts, you get the fifth free!
In some aspects, it is like stepping into a barbershop of yesteryear. The staff is very polite and friendly. They seem genuinely cordial and interested in you- your family, occupation, etc.
Nearly everytime I have gone there for a cut, the place is full, but the atmosphere is inviting enough that somehow, I don't seem to mind (unlike waiting at the chain salons). Though not into lavish hair-dos, the cuts they give are nice- and as mentioned, the price is even nicer!
Apparantly, they also offer massages and manicures (by appointment only).
Next time you're looking for a cut, check them out. I don't think you'll be disappointed.

Buy In Ogden

It's been quite a few days since I last posted. The problem that this brings up is that there are so many things to post about, it almost becomes overwhelming. Nearly so much so that I almost want to throw my hands in the air and bag it all.
This is not to be the case, however. One thing that has been mulling around in my grey matter was a challenge issued last week on the "WCForum" by fellow blogger, "Socrates". Though his comments have been dismissed as mere "pie in the sky" pipe dreams, and in some cases, completely ignored, I have been giving it some serious thought. I can't help but ask myself the question, "What if...?" So that, gentle reader, is the question I pose to you.
What if we decided to shop for essentials only in Ogden? What if instead of going to the "evil" (GASP) Wal-Mart or Target, we shopped at Shop-Ko? What if we spent a few cents more for gas and actually fueled up at an Ogden convenience store rather than Costco or Sam's Club? What if we "damned the torpedos" and only got our hardware at Home Depot or Ace (in Wangsgards) and our office supplies at Office Max? Or our groceries at Smith's, Harmon's, Alberton's, Stop & Shop, or Wangsgards? What if we purchased pizza at Ogden Pizzeria or (as much as it pains me sometimes) Pizza Runner? (Editor's Note: I've loved the Runner, but sometimes I just can't stomach their "contrarian" views).
I understand that there are extenuating circumstances when one simply can't find certain items within the city limits, but if we each worked a little harder, shopped a little smarter, and encouraged our neighbors to do the same, what could happen?
What if?

Optimistic about Ogden's helping professions

A few months ago, I attended the groundbreaking for the Treehouse Children's Museum. As I waited with my family for the festivities to begin, I looked at my surroundings and tried to picture what that four block area will hopefully look like five years from now.
As I looked toward the southeast, something caught my attention. There, rising above the trees a block east of Washington Blvd. was a grey and brown building. In beautifully striking letters were the words Weber-Morgan Health Department (or something of that nature). I was amazed at how nice the building looks. I had passed it before in its construction phase, but had not seen it completed from that angle.
We have a marvelous core of helping professions in this city and the new Health Department is just a small portion of that. To the north of that building is Your Community Connection- a shelter for abused women. I've learned that YCC does more than just help abused women- offering parenting classes as well as support groups for youth. The Adult Education for Ogden City Schools is also housed there.
Across the street from YCC is the future site of Midtown Health Clinic. Recently, trees have been removed from the properties and the abandoned homes there should be coming down shortly.
On 26th and Lincoln, we also have the Weber Human Services building. There is a lot of supportive counseling and prevention work that goes on at that building. I could go on and on about the other helping professions that are much smaller (Red Cross, Children's Justice Center, Children's Aid, etc.) and might post another day about some of them. The point is that Ogdenites have shown in times past that they care for their own. Some might be quick to judge someone for the choices they might have made in their past, but in the end, we often do lend a helping hand.
If you haven't had a chance to, make a donation to one of these fine institutions (or any others in our community). I am acquainted with many who work in the helping professions. They don't do it for the money, they do it to help PEOPLE. They can always use that "Thank you" from the community for looking out for their own.

Optimistic about "The Good In Ogden"

I just finished reading an essay written by fellow blogger "UTmorMAN". This Ogdenite keeps a blog known as "The Good In Ogden" (there is a link to that blog in the links section to the right). In his essay, the author takes the reader on a "tour" of downtown Ogden. The post immediately following the essay is a photographic tour of the same thing he had just written about. Let me share just a few paragraphs from his essay:
Yes, friends it IS Ogden. The plan IS working. Many can argue that the Mayor and others are not doing their jobs. I submit that they are doing their jobs as good as they can. The Mayor is obviously doing just horrible enough of a job to be elected to a second term. Is there risk in what they are doing? Of course there is risk. But is this Ogden better than the Ogden of not too many years ago?
Personally, I tire of people leaving Ogden because there is nothing to do, or the fact that they can’t find a good paying job here, or the schools are not good enough, or simply because they do not feel safe. I can assure you that pretty much all of the thousands of people in downtown Ogden on Saturday evening felt safe. Nobody seemed forced to be there. Looking at the paper this morning, I did not read about any robberies or murders downtown last night.The few blocks of downtown that I walked were alive again. Buildings had been redeveloped and new buildings built. New business had moved in around them and will continue to move in. Looking at the pictures I will provide of successful redevelopment projects, it seems hard to argue the recent success of Ogden. Again, the question comes up: Is there risk? Yes there is, but it sure is nice to have a vibrant downtown with a future again. When people challenge me as to the validity of downtown redevelopment, questions enter my mind too. I think of questions like: “What is your plan?” and “Why aren’t you doing something to help the situation instead of simply questioning the city’s every move?”
My stroll downtown made me happy to be an Ogdenite. I invite anyone to take a stroll through downtown just as I have and tell me that it is not in a better situation than it was not too long ago. Ogden is beautiful and there is good in her.
If you would like to read the entire essay, click here. Enjoy Ogden. It's a great place to live!!

Meet Ogden's Finest

The Standard-Examiner has been promoting Ogden's Night Out Against Crime over the past week. Well, tonight's the night. This is an opportunity for Ogden's finest to show off some of their wares. It will also be an opportunity to rub shoulders with fellow Ogdenites. Here's the Article from the Standard-Examiner:
Meet police at Ogden event
Sunday, July 31, 2005
OGDEN -- At most parties, when the police arrive, it is time to go home.
On Monday night, however, residents will have the chance to meet and mingle with local police officers at Ogden's celebration of the 22nd annual National Night Out Against Crime.
The event will be held at Lester Park and will include demonstrations by police canine units and the Weber Morgan Narcotics Strike Force. It also will feature a Playstation tournament, sports competitions, and a senior area with chairs and bottles of water made available by the Golden Hours Senior Center.
The Ogden Police Department will help parents make child identity kits, which contain children's fingerprints, hair samples and physical descriptions and can be used to help find the children if they are lost. Information will also be given on how to start a neighborhood watch program.
Program chairwoman Casherie Bright said the event's goal is to teach residents how to protect their communities against crime, and to encourage them to work with local police officers.
"A lot of times, your only interaction with the police is when you get pulled over, and it can be very intimidating," Bright said. "We want people to get to know who their community police officers are and feel comfortable with them."
This is the ninth year Ogden has participated in the National Night Out Against Crime, which was created in 1984 by the National Association of Town Watch.
This year, 10,500 communities from all 50 states, U.S. territories, Canadian cities, and military bases will hold Night Out celebrations Tuesday. Bright said the event committee planned Ogden's festivities to coincide Monday with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints' "family night" and with the schedules of Ogden city officials.
Bright said the event was also designed to give neighbors a chance to know one another -- an important factor in keeping communities safe.
"When people know each other, it creates a better atmosphere, and people tend to take better care of their community," Bright said.
All activities are free, and pizza and soda pop will be available for $1. The event is sponsored by Operation Weed and Seed, a federally funded program to eliminate drug-related crime and revitalize Ogden neighborhoods.
* 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, Aug. 1
* Lester Park, 24th Street and Jefferson Avenue.
* Admission is free

Obligations at my place of employment prevent me from attending, but I would encourage you all to drop by for a brief visit. Let our officers know they are appreciated.