tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6519233577484585512024-02-01T13:35:03.783-08:00Lisa Loves LoganTesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00847445179004483526noreply@blogger.comBlogger42125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-651923357748458551.post-34683093902032008822012-09-28T02:44:00.000-07:002012-09-28T03:20:54.489-07:00Sweetly Divine (Pastries and Sandwiches) Review - Logan, UtahIt's official. I am no longer a Cache Valley-ite. Last week the movers hauled away our belongings and the sale of our house closed. There are so many things I'll miss about Cache Valley<br />
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One place I'll miss desperately is Sweetly Divine, a world-class pastry shop in Logan that also serves homemade soups, salads, and sandwiches. You might be thinking, "World class? In Logan?" Yes, it's true. I've had pastries at Sweetly Divine that are the equal of treats in fancy, well-known shops in New York City and San Francisco. It's the perfect place for a lunch, and has awesome treats to bring your friend on her birthday or your wife on the way home from work. Just look:<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautifully delicious Sweetly Divine pastries. Clockwise from top left: Lemon Bar, Apple Strudel, Palmier, Pear Mousse, Cannoli </td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOI3uB7vv9YzF-4RdK-Jx7CdgIrkI0QZ9WzIB3_cftGAQFZNWkNWsD_M7IQDNQ19I8mCgkA3UEKpisF8P7SknBXeKyKtetgAqRlPUGXw71UEKSeskiClTz5SfZFDeZx-GbWZm8cAdOiw/s1600/IMG_0352.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOI3uB7vv9YzF-4RdK-Jx7CdgIrkI0QZ9WzIB3_cftGAQFZNWkNWsD_M7IQDNQ19I8mCgkA3UEKpisF8P7SknBXeKyKtetgAqRlPUGXw71UEKSeskiClTz5SfZFDeZx-GbWZm8cAdOiw/s640/IMG_0352.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I don't think Cache Valley realizes or appreciates what it's got in Sweetly Divine, and I'd like to see that change. A lot of new chain bakeries have come into town. Their food for the most part is pretty good. Their prices for the most part are pretty high. They do not measure up to Sweetly Divine. This is the real deal!</div>
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<b>Sweetly Divine</b></div>
1309 North Main, Suite 90, Logan, UT<br />
(directly north of Costa Vida in the Shopko shopping center)<br />
435-787-1860<br />
<a href="http://www.montezbrothers.com/">www.sweetlydivine.com</a>, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/sweetlydivine">www.facebook.com/sweetlydivine</a><br />
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<b>Hours:</b> Monday-Saturday 10am - 10pm<br />
<b>Prices: </b>Pastries: $.80 - $5.75, Lunch/Dinner Items: $3.25 - $7.75, Whole Specialty Cakes & Pies: $16.50 - $40.50 (special order)<br />
<b>Liquor:</b> No<br />
<b>Year Opened:</b> 2006<br />
<b>FYI:</b> Breakfast items and additional items are available by special order. Sweetly Divine jellies are available by the jar, and are great for spreading and recipes<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7tIptMSBG60ZI7iYFiRTdsu7GZfUWV_0TTupm3aTlMFPXIlPyh4HLoIGZccKowmT1OL-hxTdvFl8_AD5iR3TuFOIV7j_rdQOsEnyTqOpu611L6tYuTrLyAg5LhsA4zy4Dmye5BmpUPg/s1600/IMG_0355.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7tIptMSBG60ZI7iYFiRTdsu7GZfUWV_0TTupm3aTlMFPXIlPyh4HLoIGZccKowmT1OL-hxTdvFl8_AD5iR3TuFOIV7j_rdQOsEnyTqOpu611L6tYuTrLyAg5LhsA4zy4Dmye5BmpUPg/s640/IMG_0355.JPG" width="474" /></a></div>
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Pastries are a tricky business. Don't we each have our own dear little favorites? When I first went to Sweetly Divine I tried some pastries that were great, no doubt, but they weren't MY pastries. The next time I tried some others and, wowie! I hit the jackpot and created a Sweetly Divine craving that will probably never be satisfied no matter how many I eat. It's the Lemon Bars and the Pear Mousse that did me in.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgma8dzwR8tif1LwVXXUWHau698Il1bCxhQ_komii6z7Alkms-CV6aZS0VUZtMmNKKYx4Cu3pbjHmoTSpqYxMFjgOGblWi04uPe1zX50Y7y8DqjPbnw1C31vX6svAAk4DWDmDpp_MgdQ/s1600/IMG_0353.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgma8dzwR8tif1LwVXXUWHau698Il1bCxhQ_komii6z7Alkms-CV6aZS0VUZtMmNKKYx4Cu3pbjHmoTSpqYxMFjgOGblWi04uPe1zX50Y7y8DqjPbnw1C31vX6svAAk4DWDmDpp_MgdQ/s640/IMG_0353.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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And that's to say nothing of the Pickle Soup.<br />
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Yes, you heard me right. Pickle Soup. It's soup. It's got pickles in it. And it's amazing! It's a special that's only available every other Tuesday. The recipe is a traditional one from chef/owner Mark Godrowski's home country of Poland. I'd liken it to cream of potato soup with a slight, dill-y kick from the shredded pickles. They really mellow out when cooked. Mark's soups are homemade, something that can't be said about most of the other restaurant soups in the valley. The selection changes daily. Other choices include Bacon & Spinach, Clam Chowder, Italian Wedding Soup, Borscht, and Tomato Basil.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFwOHHn-dI7esJBLdelesAS_zNt0UTFjk8-XdybtGNdtQVPZaMePiTcIv4lE6dK5xuozTnQqZRvzwkL1VW1_qQHMHEoEqaZ9mlsSfmjiFrfh9uXC0r9ATXY80alRsz6Upism2uQAX4mg/s1600/SweetlyDivine_PickleSoup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFwOHHn-dI7esJBLdelesAS_zNt0UTFjk8-XdybtGNdtQVPZaMePiTcIv4lE6dK5xuozTnQqZRvzwkL1VW1_qQHMHEoEqaZ9mlsSfmjiFrfh9uXC0r9ATXY80alRsz6Upism2uQAX4mg/s640/SweetlyDivine_PickleSoup.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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The sandwiches feature savory fillings between slices of soft, house-made focaccia bread. Each sandwich is spread with interesting condiments including Sweetly Divine's signature line of sweet pepper jellies. My favorite is the turkey sandwich, and my husband likes the ham.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLLIUzVuyE8d6s5gb3jn0dZF0nbfAdctBM_aNlLAkFsrBpsmfemeGYQo21ZhmDjr14O7y6t9DparhHtWucW1J76In8KN27pRqwDY-IJoYqHMpQBGqDwN3BJySqUlCesXVCn5raF4Nbkw/s1600/IMG_0448.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLLIUzVuyE8d6s5gb3jn0dZF0nbfAdctBM_aNlLAkFsrBpsmfemeGYQo21ZhmDjr14O7y6t9DparhHtWucW1J76In8KN27pRqwDY-IJoYqHMpQBGqDwN3BJySqUlCesXVCn5raF4Nbkw/s640/IMG_0448.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4QgFe1f3VuqLClSs_5whJgLUqA-SYWixc8-3gTHsaVJfIx19TNJ8bnCYvNPsDiN4SsHwKSytLlBF1Xmeyq5_-oJf5OQzGyi5QiBBCXwcunBRppOEOmtVctWqzPSaUf7Y_Z8Wn5tCnng/s1600/IMG_0356.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4QgFe1f3VuqLClSs_5whJgLUqA-SYWixc8-3gTHsaVJfIx19TNJ8bnCYvNPsDiN4SsHwKSytLlBF1Xmeyq5_-oJf5OQzGyi5QiBBCXwcunBRppOEOmtVctWqzPSaUf7Y_Z8Wn5tCnng/s640/IMG_0356.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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But enough about all that savory stuff! Let's go back to the sweets.<br />
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I've always liked lemon bars, and Mark's lemon bars are the best I've ever had (with apologies to my sister, who also makes a mean lemon bar). The custard on these lemon bars is so perfect -- bright, vibrant, glistening yellow, smooth and tart in the mouth. Mmmmm. And the pear mousse! Divine! sweet and heady pear-infused cloud fluff mousse, layered on a moist cake base, encased in a delicate shell of icing. Too good!<br />
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Then there's the cannoli. I thought I didn't like cannolis, but it turns out I just don't like BAD ones. Sweetly Divine's cannolis set a new standard. I'm convinced you can't get a better one outside of Philly, Boston, or NYC.<br />
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A newer occasional specialty I haven't been able to try yet is kouign aman. A croissant-like pastry from France's Brittany region, the kouign aman (also spelled kouing aman, and pronounced roughly "queen ah-mahn") is a current darling in the culinary world. Les Madeleines bakery in Salt Lake City has a famous version that's been featured on Food Network, and that's where I first started my addiction. They're known, basically, as "crack". Chewy, creamy, buttery, sweet, and delicious, they are labor intensive to make and worth whatever price you have to pay. I'm so disappointed I moved away before getting to try Sweetly Divine's version.<br />
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Service at Sweetly Divine is friendly and competent. There are several tables for dining in the restaurant, and everything is really convenient for taking to-go, as well. A few little changes could improve experience. Labels on the wares would be helpful. Earlier morning hours to take advantage of pastries for breakfast would be wonderful. And I wouldn't mind if the sandwiches were a tad thicker (with more vegetables?). I guess that's my American appetite coming through. But please don't change a thing about the pickle soup!<br />
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Have you been to Sweetly Divine? What's your favorite? Your mouth should be watering after seeing the photos, so get up and head to Sweetly Divine!Testhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00847445179004483526noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-651923357748458551.post-86484894792580418772012-08-22T15:23:00.000-07:002012-08-22T15:52:05.124-07:00Lisa Loved LoganHas anyone been wondering what happened to me? Something big. Something that upended my plans for this blog and my life.<br />
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I moved to Salt Lake City. I've been here for five days.<br />
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The move was unexpected and happened quickly. Early in July my husband (who was gainfully employed in Logan and accepting a new position with his company in Smithfield) was contacted about a job opportunity in SLC. He was semi-interested, but I didn't really think anything would come of it. Hence, I just chugged along posting daily on Lisa Loves Logan, house hunting in Cache Valley, and living my regular life. At the end of July things started moving quickly and Tyson was offered the job. Before I could catch my breath we decided to take the leap and change our lives all over again. In case you don't remember, we just moved (back) to Logan from Pennsylvania only a year ago. In fact, this is our 13th move together as a married couple. Lucky number 13?<br />
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Tyson started his new job this week. We put our home in North Logan on the market last week, thinking it might take a couple of months to sell. Instead we got two offers within the first few days, and we are now under contract. If all goes well, someone else will own my sweet little Cache Valley home as of September 20.
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We are hanging at my parents' house downtown while we wait for our temporary rental to finish being remodeled. We are house hunting again. A whole new house hunt in a whole new area. So, move number 14 is likely to follow shortly. Hopefully it will be a few years before number 15!<br />
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I still have a post coming about Sweetly Divine, as well as one about Tandoori Oven. I hope I can still post here from time to time when I visit Cache Valley, but Lisa Loves Logan will never be the comprehensive resource I once hoped it would be. Life goes on! Thank you for reading, friends.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cache Valley sky and mountains I won't be seeing out my boys' window anymore</td></tr>
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<br />Testhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00847445179004483526noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-651923357748458551.post-7648590425839389882012-08-02T16:01:00.000-07:002012-08-02T16:01:40.267-07:00Getaways to SLC and Lava Hot SpringsHey there, long time no post! I've been away on vacation since Saturday. We made two trips to Salt Lake City and two trips to Lava Hot Springs (Idaho). Don't ask. Well, actually, do ask! You know I'll tell! (Using as many words and exclamation points and parentheses as possible.)<br />
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We went to SLC on Saturday for the Neil Diamond concert, which was great! Old Neil actually sounded a lot better than I thought he would (I had prepared myself for the worst), and he put on a great show. After the concert we ate a laaaaaate dinner at <a href="http://www.bayleafbarandgrub.com/" target="_blank">Bayleaf Bar & Grub</a> downtown on Main Street, the only place I could think of that was open all night besides the pancake places. It was hot and busy in there, but we very much enjoyed our fried pickles, Korean bulgogi, and fried Twinkie a la mode.<br />
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The next morning we left for a family reunion in Lava Hot Springs, ID. Though Lava is very close to Logan (the drive takes just over an hour and a half), I had never been until I got married and started going to this reunion. What a place! I'm not sure I can explain it. Let's see. It's a resort/tourist community, but very unlike, say, Park City. All the main attractions in the town are water-related and within walking distance of each other, so the sidewalks and restaurants are filled at all hours of the day with people of all ages and all body types in all sorts of swimwear. A tiny little grocery market serves the town. Accommodations have...character. Nightlife consists of bars and bingo (or in our family, card games on the motel patio). If you've never been...GO! :)<br />
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We went swimming at the <a href="http://www.lavahotsprings.com/olympicpool.html" target="_blank">city pool complex</a>, which features four large water slides and huge diving platforms, as well as an indoor pool. We also <a href="http://www.lavatuberental.com/" target="_blank">floated the Portneuf River</a>, which is very popular tubing. We had to skip the biggest rapids at the top because we took our two- and four-year-old sons on the big tube with us, but we still had a fun little ride and got all wet. We only got to make one pass because we missed most of the tubing day due to our other trip to SLC, which was for a final job interview for my husband. Usually we spend several hours being ferried through Lava Hot Springs to ride the river again and again.<br />
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The only water-related activity in Lava Hot Springs we skipped out on was the <a href="http://www.lavahotsprings.com/hotpools.html" target="_blank">hot springs themselves</a>. Too hot for our little kids! Instead we enjoyed the warm spring-fed private pool next to the reunion site.<br />
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Dining options in Lava Hot Springs have improved over the last few years. We had some decent Thai food in a converted gas station and some very good burgers and fries at 78 Main, which is a new place at the site of the old (bad) Johnny's. Tyson had the Bacon & Blue burger, and I had a chicken burger with brie and fried green apple slices. Service was great and the restaurant has been freshened up inside.<br />
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I highly recommend staying at the <a href="http://www.lavaalpacainn.com/" target="_blank">Alpaca Inn</a>, and I can't recommend any other motel in town. I love the off-Main Street location, grassy courtyard, and personal touches at this place. The owners are great and the rooms are clean and fresh (somewhat of a novelty in Lava) -- and alpaca-themed! Can't beat that! The other place in town I like isn't actually in town - it's up in the mountains. It's a fun little cabin (with running water, etc.) the owner rents out by the night. It's called the <a href="http://abracadabralava.webs.com/" target="_blank">Abracadabra Lava Guest Home</a> and it's a great little hideaway.<br />
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After three trips on I-15 that weekend, we drove back through Downey and Preston and saw the most gorgeous sunset ever. Right after I reminded my husband to watch his speed now that we weren't on the highway, he got pulled over for speeding. He was given a warning and we went on our way. Seriously, watch your speed if you ever travel through there!Testhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00847445179004483526noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-651923357748458551.post-55653762383972643832012-07-27T15:35:00.001-07:002012-07-27T15:35:31.316-07:00Montez Brothers Menu and Review - Logan, UtahI mentioned before that there were <a href="http://www.lisaloveslogan.com/2012/06/street-eats-logans-first-food-truck.html" target="_blank">changes afoot at Hamilton's</a>, a fine dining steak and seafood restaurant that has been a fixture in Cache Valley since 2004. Hamilton's has now become Montez Brothers. This <a href="http://news.hjnews.com/news/article_5e35ed04-c252-11e1-ab24-0019bb2963f4.html" target="_blank">Herald Journal article</a> clarifies the ownership changes. I will report on the changes to the decor, menu, and service. I also photographed the menu, which isn't currently available online.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">I'm torn here. I always encourage everyone I know to support our unique locally-owned eateries over national chains, and to visit the great restaurants we already have instead of wishing for one chain or another that we don't have. I don't like to be negative on this blog because I want to be a fan and a champion of local.</span></div>
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That being said, I am going to report the truth: my experience at Montez Brothers was uneven, both in terms of food and service. I hope this can be chalked up to early-days kinks that will be ironed out as the new restaurant finds its legs.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">There's always a danger in reviewing a restaurant based on a single visit. I hope to return to Montez Brothers soon with Logan Foodies to sample a wider variety of dishes. In the meantime I'm going to abbreviate this review. If any of the owners/managers read this and would like to discuss in more detail the positives and negatives I saw in the restaurant, I welcome them to contact me. I want local places to succeed!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br />
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<b style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">Montez Brothers</b><br />
2427 N. Main Street, Logan, Utah<br />
435-787-8450<br />
<a href="http://www.montezbrothers.com/">www.montezbrothers.com</a> (under construction as of 7/27/12)<br />
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<b>Hours:</b> Open for dinner only, Monday-Thursday 5-9pm, Friday-Saturday 5-10pm, closed Sunday<br />
<b>Prices: </b>Appetizers/Salads: $6-12, Entrees: $13-24<br />
<b>Liquor:</b> Yes, full liquor license, wine menu, and bar<br />
<b>Year Opened:</b> 2012<br />
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<b>Quick Review of Montez Brothers - Logan, Utah</b><br />
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Montez Brothers -- described by the owners as a "Latin-influenced" restaurant -- makes a worthy attempt to rise from the ashes of Hamilton's, but this phoenix seems to have a clipped wing. Sometimes it soars, as with the inventive ahi tuna tostada appetizer ($8) and improved interior touches. Sometimes it bombs -- bland sea bass entree ($24), service issues. Montez Brothers lacks focus as it tries to walk the line between being Latin-influenced and being just another Latin restaurant in a town overflowing with them. Not a hint of Latin influence in the chicken and pasta dishes, more so on the beef and appetizer list. Our meal started on a high note with the tuna tostadas, but went downhill when our entree order wasn't "put in", leading to an extremely long wait time and the offer of a comped dessert. It didn't help that the sea bass entree in question ended up being not at all worth the wait (or the price). The helpful manager and huge portion of tasty creme brulee helped the meal end on a sweeter note. I'd like to see Montez Brothers work through these food and service issues, but will it ever fly higher than Hamilton's once did? I'll reserve my final opinion and give the restaurant another chance in a few months.<br />
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<b>Detailed Review of Montez Brothers - Logan, Utah</b><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">As we approached Montez Brothers, we noted a sign on the door that said "original" Hamilton's gift cards would be honored until July 31st, with the proper gift card posted. We later heard a server explaining that there were many other types of Hamilton's gift certificates and cards that were not being honored. I understand that the financials of the two restaurants are entirely separate, and that the new owners have every right not to honor old certificates and cards. On the other hand, their decision is causing a lot of bad feelings about the restaurant right out of the gate, and seems like a bad p.r. move. Companies can gain a lot of favor with the public when they "pick up the pieces" of a failed enterprise. Montez Brothers is leaving themselves open for a competitor to step up and honor the Hamilton's cards, even at 50% value. I've seen this done before, to great effect.</span><br />
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Moving on...<br />
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Upon entering Montez Brothers we were promptly greeted by a friendly hostess who told us the wait would be about five minutes. Another party was waiting as well. She offered both parties seats at the bar, which we both declined. We knew that Montez Brothers was a "Latin themed" restaurant, but wondered what that meant in the context of semi-fine-dining, so we quickly grabbed a couple of menus to see what was in store. The menu, which featured a few Latin ingredients and preparations among other influences (chicken cordon blue?), seemed to lack direction but looked promising.<br />
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Soon we were seated in the cavernous main dining room, which was about 1/3 full. That caused me to wonder why we hadn't been seated upon arrival, but I suppose there were only so many waitpersons available. The room has been freshly painted deep red and gold, and has had a few minor changes to the decor. Casual drapes line the booths along the walls, new artwork is featured above the double-sided stone fireplace, and green pendant lights hang above the booths. Notably, the dark wood floor that was looking extremely rough and scratched on my most recent visit to Hamilton's has now been refinished in a lighter and more rustic stain that will better hide wear. Nothing about the ambiance screams "Latin" (other than the music), which I appreciated but at the same time found confusing -- how much has the restaurant really changed?<br />
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My answer would be...not enough (YET) to not meet the fate of Hamilton's. Rather than continue with a long and detailed review I will quickly note some of the positives and negatives we experienced.<br />
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<b>Positives:</b><br />
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<ul>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">Friendly and prompt hostess</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">Clean, refurbished restaurant that feels "nice". This is still a gracious place to eat a meal. The big round tables are great for larger parties, too.</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">Interesting menu with several appetizing descriptions</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">Tuna tostada appetizer ($9), which featured slices of seared soy-glazed ahi tuna accompanied by fresh guacamole and pickled cucumber salsa on 3.5" diameter tostada crisps - a fun Latin-Asian fusion appetizer, four per order.</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">Attentive and friendly front-of-house manager who visited our table several times after a service snafu</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">Creme brulee, which was comped and arrived in a trough-sized ramekin (troughekin?)</span></li>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><b>Negatives:</b></span></div>
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<li>Our server, who was monotone, unenergetic, and unsmiling, and who poured water in my husband's soda glass from the halfway point of the meal on, instead of asking if he would like a refill, and who may or may not have forgotten to put in our entree order.</li>
<li>Timing issues. After we waited a significant amount of time for our entrees to arrive we were informed there was a "mix-up" and our order hadn't been "put in" at the right time. We were offered a comped dessert.</li>
<li>Sea bass entree ($24). Bland, overcooked (shrimp especially), and overpriced. Waiting so long for it made it doubly disappointing.</li>
<li>Typographical errors all over the menu. That kind of stuff in a printed piece drives me crazy and really downgrades a "fine dining" restaurant in my eyes. (Don't judge me for typos here, haha!)</li>
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<b>Could go either way:</b></div>
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<ul>
<li>White queso appetizer ($7), which featured roasted poblano peppers and was much better than the version at Chili's, though not as good as one I used to get at a hole-in-the-wall Mexican restaurant in Bountiful ages ago. I was hoping for natural unprocessed cheese, so for me it tasted too much like elevated gas station nachos, but I think this appetizer is probably a crowd pleaser.
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<li>Grilled peach salad ($11). Great in theory, it featured arugula, fresh mozzarella, lemon dressing, and balsamic reduction. If only the peaches had in fact been grilled, but there was no evidence that they had been, and they were far under-ripe to boot. It still tasted good and fresh.</li>
<li>Lack of focus. The restaurant is supposed to be "Latin influenced", but features a lot of French-, Italian-, and New American-style dishes instead, with a few Latin ingredients and dishes thrown in here and there. Maybe this was an attempt to keep some of the popular dishes from Hamilton's? I note that a coujple of the chicken dishes, one of the pastas, one salad, and one seafood dish remain from the Hamilton's menu.</li>
<li>Prices. The only significant price reductions are in the Steaks and Appetizers areas of the menu. Prices are unchanged on the Hamilton's dishes that remain. The prices overall are very comparable to The Elements restaurant and not all that much higher than, say, Olive Garden</li>
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As you can see, that's a bigger list of positives than negatives, and the negatives are easily fixed with training and refinement of the menu. I hope to see improvements the next time I visit.<br />
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What about you, anyone else been to Montez Brothers? How was it?Testhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00847445179004483526noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-651923357748458551.post-41215974477534166062012-07-26T10:59:00.002-07:002012-07-27T08:51:20.834-07:00Labyrinth at St. John's Episcopal Church - Logan, Utah<b>What:</b> Labyrinth at St. John's Episcopal Church<br />
<b>Where:</b> 85 East 100 North, Logan, Utah<br />
<b>When:</b> <span style="background-color: white; text-align: left;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; text-align: left;">The building is open Monday from 9am-noon, Tuesday-Friday from 8am-noon, and Monday-Friday from 1pm to 3pm. </span><span style="background-color: white; text-align: left;">Worship services at St. John's (Service of Holy Eucharist) are Sunday at 9am and 11am and Wednesday at 5:30pm.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; text-align: left;"><b>Cost: </b>FREE</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; text-align: left;"><b>FYI:</b> The open hours outside of worship times provide more solitude for the sacred walk.</span><br />
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<b>Website:</b> <a href="http://www.stjohnslogan.org/">www.stjohnslogan.org</a></div>
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Did you know that inside this lovely old church (St. John's Episcopal church in Logan) I mentioned as a venue of the <a href="http://www.lisaloveslogan.com/2012/07/pick-of-week-cvca-gallery-walk.html" target="_blank">CVCA Gallery Walk</a>, there's a <b>labyrinth</b>? It's true.<br />
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Now, I grew up in the '80s so it's impossible for me to say labyrinth without thinking of this.</div>
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Great show. My three-year-old little sister endearingly called it "The Goblet King" [the Goblin King], and we had "Dance, Magic Dance" sing-offs bi-weekly. I think I have the entire movie memorized to this day.</div>
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...Oops, I seem to have gotten off track. Anyway, when I say "labyrinth", I'm still referring to something pretty cool. It's this...</div>
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In the entry to St. John's is a walkable labyrinth modeled after the one in France's Chartres Cathedral. Labyrinths of this type are considered a non-denominational symbol to be used as a "sacred walk". A labyrinth, unlike a maze, is unicursal - which means there is only one path, with no decision points. <span style="background-color: white;">Walking a labyrinth is said to quiet the mind and allow for meditation, reflection, and prayer. The </span><a href="http://stjohnslogan.org/" style="background-color: white;" target="_blank">St. John's website</a><span style="background-color: white;"> even suggests helping young children walk the labyrinth when they do not wish to sit during church service.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">There is no right or wrong way to walk a labyrinth, but most enter and proceed slowly to the center, pause for as long as wished to reflect, then turn around and proceed by the same path to exit. The many turns in a labyrinth often cause those who walk the path to lose sense of the directions of the outside world, allowing for an inward focus and the opportunity to find one's own direction.</span></div>
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The labyrinth was installed during a 2004 renovation and expansion of St. John's, which was originally built in 1909. When it opened, St. John's featured the valley's first lending library and first indoor shower (in the church basement). At that time, Sundays found the priest preaching to as many as 30 Mormons to 1 "gentile", since the church was an important community center for all. The congregation has grown and Sunday service now has close to 200 attendees who worship in this beautiful Sanctuary.</div>
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The exterior of the church is described as "Western-Romanesque-Gothic".</div>
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A stone at the southeast corner of the building memorializes some important dates in the history of St. John's. The first St. John's Episcopal Church in the valley was a small adobe building at 91 West 200 North in Logan, a former bakery the Episcopalian congregation first occupied in 1873. A simple wooden church was later constructed at 263 West Center in 1877, which was used until the "new" St. John's was constructed in 1908-1909.</div>
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The church originally had clear glass windows, which were replaced over time by stained glass.</div>
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St. John's also acts as a concert venue from time to time, such as last March when singers and musicians under the direction of Dr. Craig Jessop performed portions of J.S. Bach's "St Matthew Passion" in concert on Good Friday. I'll be watching for further concert announcements.<br />
<br />Testhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00847445179004483526noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-651923357748458551.post-58114984970879175542012-07-25T13:36:00.000-07:002012-07-25T13:36:12.703-07:00First Splash Pad In Cache Valley - Alma Leonhardt Park, Providence, UtahWhen I compiled my <a href="http://www.lisaloveslogan.com/2012/07/splish-splash-three-fun-places-to-get.html" target="_blank">list of fun places to swim or get wet with kids in Cache Valley</a>, I didn't know that the first splash pad in the Logan area had opened while I lived in Philadelphia. Three different people happened to mention it to me the next week, in different contexts. Talk about a message! I knew my little boys would love it, so I took them for a visit last week.<div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><b>What:</b> Splash Pad at Alma Leonhardt Park</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><b>Where:</b> 310 West 250 North, Providence, Utah</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><b>Hours:</b> Park open daily, dawn to dusk. Splash pad water feature available from 10am to 8pm.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><b>Cost:</b> FREE</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><b>FYI:</b> Trees are small so you may want to bring your own shade (umbrella, beach tent, etc.), and of course towels!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Cache Valley's first splash pad opened at Alma Leonhardt Park in Providence, Utah in the summer of 2010. The pad is 1,200 square feet and has 63 jets, including a tall and powerful column spray in the center. The jets are activated by the push of a button at the side of the pad, and run on a cycle for a few minutes before the button needs to be pushed again.</span></div>
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The different jets and water features at a splash pad provide a lot of soaking wet fun for kids - much like running through the sprinklers, but with more variety and an element of surprise. For parents, it's a great spectator water activity that doesn't require them to get wet. Yay! (Some days you just don't want to put on your swimming suit, right? Or is that just me?)</div>
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Alma Leonhardt Park also has a fun playground that is partially wheelchair accessible, a large grassy area, restrooms, and a good-sized picnic pavilion. My boys enjoyed running back and forth from the splash pad to the playground, while I huddled in the rapidly decreasing shade of the restroom building. There are a few small trees that provide a minimal spots of shade around the perimeter of the splash pad, but in-the-know moms had come armed with pop-up beach umbrellas and tents.</div>
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In February 2012 the North Logan City Council heard a proposal from Public Works Director Alan Luce regarding addition of a splash pad to Mountain View Park. I haven't heard anything further about this possibility, but I hope it comes to fruition.</div>Testhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00847445179004483526noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-651923357748458551.post-71085154155262134922012-07-24T06:07:00.000-07:002012-07-24T06:07:00.642-07:00Happy Pioneer Day!I'm off for the holiday, but I'll be back tomorrow. Sit tight, because I have posts about Sweetly Divine and Montez brothers in the hopper, plus more. I hope you have a happy and safe holiday!Testhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00847445179004483526noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-651923357748458551.post-22161539032409952302012-07-23T09:30:00.000-07:002012-07-23T09:30:21.222-07:00Pick Of The Week : That Famous Preston Night Rodeo, July 26-28, 2012 - Preston, IdahoDid anyone make it out to the Gallery Walk, last week's <a href="http://www.lisaloveslogan.com/2012/07/pick-of-week-cvca-gallery-walk.html" target="_blank">POTW</a>? (Pick of the Week, in case my acronym threw you.) I would have loved to go, but my children came down with the plague...er, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hand,_foot_and_mouth_disease" target="_blank">Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease</a> (not as horrifying as it sounds, but still no fun). It's been making its way through the under-10 set in our neighborhood and family at a rapid pace this summer. We had to quarantine ourselves, and we missed not only the Gallery Walk, but a company party at the Bees baseball game/firework show in Salt Lake City. Boo for viruses!<br />
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Hopefully it will be all cleared up in time for this week's POTW, "That Famous Preston Night Rodeo" in Preston, ID, which runs this Thursday, Friday, and Saturday July 26-28, 2012.</div>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy9bxdP93Ts12plRunkAkv28-5K7SkqDqH9zb-gKdL8L4JJHXVLbocTCCb7y8ovp0JGUv_u-aTsBJq6gYB1la2QO-kRV0gqaZ9bNfvgSNllqiE0c6RAQoHuBjBmf4D4CQMxyqIL7DtZA/s1600/Morgan_Heaton_Rodeo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="460" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy9bxdP93Ts12plRunkAkv28-5K7SkqDqH9zb-gKdL8L4JJHXVLbocTCCb7y8ovp0JGUv_u-aTsBJq6gYB1la2QO-kRV0gqaZ9bNfvgSNllqiE0c6RAQoHuBjBmf4D4CQMxyqIL7DtZA/s640/Morgan_Heaton_Rodeo.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13.333333969116211px;">Morgan Heaton on Wendy's Rocket in 2011. Quoted in article <a href="http://www.laramieboomerang.com/articles/2011/07/09/sports/doc4e17d9cdf10a5063195899.txt" target="_blank">here</a>.</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Though not in Utah, Preston is definitely still in Cache Valley. They have one of the best little small-town rodeos around, and it's surely worth a visit if you haven't been. My brother-in-law Morgan (sometimes "Moe") Heaton will be riding on Saturday night if you want to know who to cheer for. He's been a bareback rider for going on eight years now. That's him pictured above. You can also see an awesome photo of him and his little son getting ready in the bucking chutes </span><a href="http://www.mattcohenphoto.com/2011/04/21/2011-red-bluff-round-up-roughstock/" style="background-color: white;" target="_blank">here</a><span style="background-color: white;"> (lots of amazing rodeo photography at that site, </span><a href="http://www.mattcohenphoto.com/" style="background-color: white;">www.mattcohenphoto.com</a><span style="background-color: white;">).</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Have you ever been to a rodeo and felt clueless about the events and how they are scored? A little knowledge can make the rodeo a lot more fun for spectators. Check out the </span><a href="http://www.prestonrodeo.com/" style="background-color: white;" target="_blank">Preston rodeo's website</a><span style="background-color: white;"> for helpful explanations of the events and scoring. The website also explains something I've always been curious about: why this rodeo is called the "Famous Preston Night Rodeo". After all, every rodeo I've ever been to has been at night. I guess that wasn't always the case. Preston rodeo says they are recognized as the first night rodeo in the world, and they became famous for it. I guess with a start time of 8:30pm it is one of the latest/darkest rodeos I've ever been to. That adds to the fun, I think. There are lots of pre-events like a parade and carnival and even helicopter rides that caught my eye ($25 per person). Check this page for the </span><a href="http://www.prestonrodeo.com/events.htm" style="background-color: white;" target="_blank">full schedule</a><span style="background-color: white;">.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><b>What:</b> That Famous Preston Night Rodeo</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><b>When: </b>July 26-28, 2012 - Rodeo pre-events at 8:15pm, rodeo starts at 8:30pm. Associated events all day.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><b>Where:</b> Preston Rodeo Grounds, 198 W 2nd N Street, Preston, Idaho</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">Rodeo Ticket Prices: Thursday $9 and $8, Friday $12 and $11, Saturday $12 and $11</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><a href="http://www.prestonrodeo.com/">www.prestonrodeo.com</a> for more information and online ticket purchase</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">As for me, I'll be missing Morgan's ride on Saturday because my husband and I have tickets to a concert in Salt Lake. Okay, I'm just going to go ahead and say it. We're going to the Neil Diamond concert. We've actually never been to a big concert together, and this, THIS, is the first one??!? Well, I figured we may not have many chances left to see old Neil, and I hear he's a great performer. Anyone ever been? We'll have to hit the Preston rodeo on Friday night.</span></div>
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<br /></div>Testhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00847445179004483526noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-651923357748458551.post-18162384300772995292012-07-22T19:07:00.003-07:002012-07-22T19:07:49.541-07:00Pioneer Day Celebrations in Logan and Cache Valley - 24th of July, 2012I'll be back tomorrow with the regularly scheduled <a href="http://www.lisaloveslogan.com/2012/07/pick-of-week-cvca-gallery-walk.html" target="_blank">Pick of the Week</a>, but I wanted to pop in and mention the Pioneer Day (24th of July) celebrations happening on Tuesday this week.<br />
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<b>Do Other States Have State Holidays?</b><br />
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For those who don't know, Pioneer Day (aka the 24th of July) is Utah's state holiday. The day commemorates the arrival in the Salt Lake Valley of the first party of Mormon Pioneers (LDS - Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints). I've always been curious about whether other states have state holidays, and it's been my impression that most don't. My curiosity led me to <a href="http://www.infoplease.com/ipa/A0002069.html" target="_blank">this list of state holidays</a>. It seems that Utah is, indeed, one of a few states to have a true state holiday. Pioneer Day follows so closely on the heels of <a href="http://www.lisaloveslogan.com/2012/07/hyrum-lewiston-4th-of-july-celebrations.html" target="_blank">Independence Day</a> that for Utahns July is a huge party and firework month, full of state and national pride!<br />
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<b>Local Celebrations</b><br />
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Logan and North Logan both have Pioneer Day celebrations/parades/firework shows. Info <a href="http://www.loganutah.org/parks_and_rec/dept_information/images/Special_Events/LoganCityPioneerDayCelebration.pdf" target="_blank">here for Logan</a> (warning, PDF may be slow to load), and <a href="http://northlogancity.org/" target="_blank">here for North Logan</a>. For those who want firework info without clicking, the Logan fireworks are at Willow Park and the North Logan fireworks are at Elk Ridge Park.<br />
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Have a safe and happy holiday week!Testhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00847445179004483526noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-651923357748458551.post-34001113633241793912012-07-20T15:17:00.000-07:002012-07-20T15:46:44.503-07:00My Fair Lady At Utah Festival Opera & Musical Theatre - Logan, UtahSorry for being MIA yesterday. Sick children and dear out-of-town house guests kept me away from the computer. Before this gets too out of date I want to review Utah Festival Opera & Musical Theatre's production of <i>My Fair Lady</i>, which I saw on Saturday, July 19, 2012 at the Ellen Eccles Theatre on Main Street in Logan.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13.333333969116211px;">Vanessa Ballam as Eliza Doolittle, photo from <a href="http://www.ufoc.org/index.php?p_resource=home" target="_blank">UFOMT website</a></td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white;">For those who don't know, UFOMT is a yearly festival of operas, concerts, and musicals founded 20 years ago by opera star and local Loganite Michael Ballam. (Read more about Ballam's background in this interesting Deseret News article, "</span><a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/355014358/Michael-Ballam-Utah-tenors-career-comes-full-circle.html?pg=all" style="background-color: white;" target="_blank">Michael Ballam: Utah tenor's career comes full circle</a><span style="background-color: white;">"</span><span style="background-color: white;">.)</span><br />
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Each year my grandparents drive all the way up to Cache Valley from the far southeast corner of the state to see the UFOMT operas and shows. They aren't the only ones. Most of the festival's 20,000+ attendees come from all over the state and country. This year's productions are the operas <i>Faust</i> and <i>Tosca</i> and the classic musicals <i> My Fair Lady</i> and <i>Kiss Me Kate</i>. For more information on the shows, visit <a href="http://saltlakecityview.com/2012/07/17/logan-utah-a-great-side-trip-from-salt-lake-city/" target="_blank">this blog post about Logan on Salt Lake City View</a>.<br />
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The season is designed so patrons can see all four shows on one weekend, in a combination of matinees and evening performances. My dear grandparents purchase extra tickets each year so they can treat their children and grandchildren to the shows. How sweet of them!<br />
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I have been lucky enough to see several lovely UFOMT operas over the years. This was my first time seeing a musical, though. I was not disappointed!<span style="background-color: white;"> From the actors to the sets to the orchestra to the beautiful theater itself, nearly every detail was perfect. We are indeed lucky to have this caliber of performance available to us in our own little city. In my experience the UFOMT shows far surpass the quality of the national touring productions I have seen in Salt Lake City.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><b><i>My Fair Lady</i> Review</b></span><br />
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In Utah Festival Opera & Musical Theatre's production of Lerner and Loewe's classic musical<i> My Fair Lady</i>, Cockney flower girl Eliza Doolittle (the lovely Vanessa Ballam) transforms into a sophisticated lady of society under the tutelage of dialect coach Professor Henry Higgins, ably played by Kyle Pfortmiller. The sets, costumes, staging, singing, and acting are all top-notch in UFOMT's rendition of the show. If one "fault" could be found with the production, it's that Vanessa Ballam's beautiful, classically-trained voice shines too brightly through the harsh, flat tones of Eliza's native dialect. Vanessa's acting, though, perfectly suited the role. It's in her blood, of course. Her father (and UFOMT founder) Michael Ballam, <span style="background-color: white;">disguised under a bulbous nose and layers of makeup,</span><span style="background-color: white;"> stole the show in his comic turn as Eliza's father Alfred Doolittle.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">Another stand-out was the quartet of men who sing with Eliza on "Wouldn't It Be Loverly?". I particularly noticed the sweetly soaring voice of the tenor. The whole chorus, in fact, was excellent as an ensemble and in their individually highlighted parts. A strong ensemble is a hallmark of UFOMT's shows. The performers come from all over the country, and are auditioned and hand-picked by Michael Ballam.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">Costumes and sets were attractive and well-designed. I did wonder why we didn't see the black-and-white dress pictured above during the show. (It's a distinctive costume from the "Ascot Opening Day" scene.) Instead Eliza wore a pastel confection and carried a ruffly parasol that gave her a lot of trouble, to hilarious effect. The whole scene is traditionally one of the showpieces of <i>My Fair Lady</i>, musically and comically, and it lived up to expectations.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">Funny and heart-wrenching by turns, and filled with catchy tunes, <i>My Fair Lady</i> is a good introduction to musical theater. Whether you're a longtime musical fan or not, I encourage you to see this performance. The remaining show dates are July 20, 25, 28 (matinee), August 3 (matinee), 9 (matinee), and 11. Single ticket prices range from $12 to $76, with half price tickets available for students and children. Or take advantage of UFOMT's season design, which allows one to attend all four shows in one weekend. Visit <a href="http://www.ufoc.org/">www.ufoc.org</a> for details.</span><br />
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Special mention should be made of UFOMT's venue, the beautiful Ellen Eccles Theatre. Read about the theater's history <a href="http://www.centerforthearts.us/history.html" target="_blank">here</a>. The neoclassical interior rivals theaters I've visited in San Francisco and New York City.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Interior of the Ellen Eccles Theatre, photo from <a href="http://www.ufoc.org/index.php?p_resource=about_history_eccles" target="_blank">UFOMT website</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Detail of balconies and phoenix mural. Photo credit: Wally Bloss, Executive Director of the <a href="http://www.centerforthearts.us/" target="_blank">Cache Valley Center for the Arts</a></td></tr>
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Have you been/are you going to any shows this year at UFOMT or at the Old Lyric? What's your favorite musical?</div>Testhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00847445179004483526noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-651923357748458551.post-29477473360532684132012-07-18T06:00:00.000-07:002012-07-18T06:00:08.721-07:00So Messy, Yet So Good: Philly Cheese Steak by Street Eats Food TruckAs I mentioned yesterday, I stopped by <a href="http://www.lisaloveslogan.com/2012/06/street-eats-logans-first-food-truck.html" target="_blank">Street Eats</a> for lunch on Monday when the Culinary Concepts food truck was parked at CenturyLink in North Logan. I ordered the Spicy Vietnamese Pork Wrap ($5), which is quickly becoming one of my food vices, two sides of Pepper Jack Mac and Cheese ($2 each - for my kids), and the Philly Cheese Steak special ($7 - ostensibly for my husband, but he works night shift and would be asleep for several more hours - so who was it <i>really</i> for?).<br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">The picture I took of the cheese steak looks pretty disgusting - which means Street Eats is TOTALLY doing it right (and I say this as someone who spent the past couple of years living in Philadelphia and experiencing the real deal). Gently charred strips of tenderloin mixed with grilled onions and peppers overflowing from a soft Italian roll, all topped with ooey, gooey cheese. Oops, I mean Cheez. Personally, when I make a cheese steak at home I like to use melted provolone or mozzarella cheese, but if you want a traditional, true Philly style cheese steak you gotta use the whiz. The Cheez Whiz, that is. Hey, don't mess with tradition!</span><br />
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I stole several bites of my husband's sandwich before <span style="background-color: white;">lamenting about how it would suffer under refrigeration and </span><span style="background-color: white;">wrapping it up for him to eat later. My one suggestion for a better sandwich would be a few more peppers, but overall it was an excellent rendition.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yeah, yeah, yeah, I photographed this on the asphalt parking lot. What, you think I was going to wait till I got home to dig into it? I had to photograph it fast before it was gone!</td></tr>
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The macaroni and cheese wasn't really a hit with my kids, perhaps because the pepper jack cheese gave it a slight spicy kick they didn't enjoy. I've never met a pasta that I didn't like, so it was fine by me (yes, I ate their dishes of macaroni and cheese for dinner that night). It's worth noting that the pepper jack used is of the processed-cheese variety (most pepper jack is of that variety), so if you don't like the taste of processed cheese it might not be for you. If, on the other hand, you're like me -- denied Kraft singles and any other processed cheese as a kid, and therefore developing a taste for it as a "special treat" -- you'll like it just fine. It's definitely comfort food.<br />
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Lucky for my waistline and my pocket book, Street Eats usually parks at the south end of town in the ThermoFisher parking lot on Hyclone Drive. You can follow their <a href="http://www.facebook.com/StreetEatsUtah?ref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook page</a> for updates on their specials and locations.<br />
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I saw several people order the BBQ sandwich. Anyone tried it? What did you think?Testhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00847445179004483526noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-651923357748458551.post-3017237543193847272012-07-17T17:11:00.001-07:002012-07-17T22:52:02.098-07:00Local Blogs - Know Any?I've started working on a list of local blogs. Check it out on the <a href="http://www.lisaloveslogan.com/p/links.html" target="_blank">Local Blogs</a> page and also at the bottom of the right sidebar. This will be a work in progress. Go visit the ones that are listed so far, and be sure to suggest more!Testhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00847445179004483526noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-651923357748458551.post-85498422520753661922012-07-17T11:15:00.000-07:002012-07-17T11:15:19.396-07:00Ding! Ding! Ding! FREE Cathy Ferrand Bullock Handbell Performance & Lecture, July, 18, 2012 - Logan, UTCathy Ferrand Bullock, USU professor and director of the Westminster Bell Choir, will deliver a free educational lecture and handbell performance at the historic Cache County Courthouse on Wednesday, July 18 at 7pm as part of the Cache Valley Visitors Bureau's summer speaker series.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cathy Ferrand Bullock (front row, far left) with the Westminster Bell Choir - Logan, Utah - from <a href="http://www.firstpreslogan.com/music/bell-choir/" target="_blank">here</a></td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Dr. Bullock was one of my communications professors at Utah State. I can vouch that she is an energetic and engaging speaker. Her talk is entitled "Ring Those Bells! The Magic of English Handbells". She will discuss the history of handbells and demonstrate the variety of techniques players use to achieve different sounds with the bells. Solo and quartet performances will be part of the lecture, which will last one hour. Sounds lovely and fascinating!</span><br />
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<b>What:</b> Lecture and Handbell Performance by Cathy Ferrand Bullock, part of the Cache valley Visitors Bureau Summer Speaker Series<br />
<b>When: </b>Wednesday, July 18, 2012, 7-8pm<br />
<b>Where: </b>Historic Cache County Courthouse, 199 N. Main Street, Logan, Utah (<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jpn/2068091957/" target="_blank">photo</a>)<br />
<b>Cost: </b>Free<br />
<b>FYI: </b>Seating is limited, so arrive early. For more information, call 435-755-1890</div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">The Westminster Bell Choir is an interfaith group sponsored by the First Presbyterian Church of Logan. Here is a 40-second YouTube video featuring the Westminster Bell Choir performing Christmas carol "Il Est Ne, Le Divin Enfant". Dr. Bullock is featured as the director. The choir's annual Christmas concert at the Logan Tabernacle is a popular event.</span><br />
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I grabbed some good eats on Saturday at the <a href="http://www.lisaloveslogan.com/2012/06/miniature-cherries-yes-please-gardeners.html" target="_blank">Cache Valley Gardeners' Market</a> when I finally got to try the Vietnamese cuisine from Da Nang Bistro. My salad featured a savory and fresh mix of chicken, cabbage, cilantro, nuts, chili peppers, carrots, green apples, and a very light dressing(?), and was accompanied by delicately-flavored rice cakes. I also sampled the <a href="http://www.lisaloveslogan.com/2012/07/da-nang-bistro-update-cache-valley.html" target="_blank">Da Chanh</a>, Da Nang Bistro's riff on the ice cream sandwich. So good! I will definitely be back for a full-size next week. Da Nang Bistro will only be at the market for two more weeks (July 21 & 28), so get over to the market and grab some Vietnamese food before your chance is gone! Visit the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/DaNangBistro" target="_blank">Da Nang Bistro Facebook page</a> for info and updates.</div>
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I've kind of been on a Vietnamese kick, because yesterday at lunch I took advantage of Street Eats' close proximity to my house (the food truck was in the CenturyLink parking lot), and ordered the <a href="http://www.lisaloveslogan.com/2012/06/street-eats-logans-first-food-truck.html" target="_blank">Spicy Vietnamese Pork Wrap</a> once again. I also tested the authenticity of the Philly Cheese Steak, the specialty of the city I just moved here from. Tune in tomorrow to see how this Utah cheese steak compared to the real deal in Philadelphia. See you then!</div>
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<br /></div>Testhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00847445179004483526noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-651923357748458551.post-6709082531578486922012-07-16T06:00:00.000-07:002012-07-16T10:51:20.266-07:00Pick Of The Week: CVCA Gallery Walk (Including Map and Recommendations), July 20, 2012 - Logan, Utah<span style="background-color: white;">How was your Cache Valley weekend? Mine was busy and fun. I hit the <a href="http://www.lisaloveslogan.com/2012/06/miniature-cherries-yes-please-gardeners.html" target="_blank">Cache Valley Gardeners' Market</a> on Saturday morning in Logan before a matinee of <a href="http://www.ufoc.org/" target="_blank">Utah Festival Opera's</a> "My Fair Lady". Then I headed down to Salt Lake for a family dinner featuring finds from the <a href="http://www.slcfarmersmarket.org/" target="_blank">Downtown Farmers Market</a>. The weekend ended with another family dinner at the south end of Cache Valley in Paradise. I'll fill you in on these events later this week (well, not the family dinners - that would be kind of weird-slash-boring?).</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13.333333969116211px;">From the CVCA website, <a href="http://www.cachearts.org/">www.cachearts.org</a><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">Starting today I plan to write about my "Pick of the Week" each Monday. This will be the local event I personally plan to attend, or most want to attend. I'm doing this in lieu of providing a comprehensive calendar or a whole week of picks. If you'd like to know about more things to do during the week I encourage you to check out the </span><a href="http://www.lisaloveslogan.com/p/calendar.html" style="background-color: white;" target="_blank">Calendar</a><span style="background-color: white;"> page for links to lots of other event calendars for the area. This week my pick is the CVCA Gallery Walk. </span><span style="background-color: white;">Read on for all the venues and artists, plus my picks. The painting featured on the poster below is "Snow Canyon" by Brooke Lambert, who will be exhibiting at Caffe Ibis. A Lisa Loves Logan reader recommended her last week!</span><br />
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<b style="background-color: white;">What: </b><span style="background-color: white;">CVCA Gallery Walk</span><br />
<b>When: </b>Friday, July 20th, 2012, 6-9pm<br />
<b>Where: </b>Various venues, downtown Logan, Utah<br />
<a href="http://www.cachearts.com/">www.cachearts.com</a><br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/cachearts">http://www.facebook.com/cachearts</a>
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On Friday, July 20th, galleries and other businesses in downtown Logan will open their doors from 6pm to 9pm and host the works of local artists as part of the CVCA Gallery Walk. The Cache Valley Center for the Arts (CVCA) puts on the Gallery Walk about six times a year, and it's one of my favorite activities in Logan. It's so fun to see Main Street alive in the evening and to see the local artists' talents on display. <span style="background-color: white;">A few venues have live music (see below) and some of the restaurants provide little samples of their fare.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> It's probably not the best activity for kids, but it makes a great and inexpensive (free) date, or a fun adventure with friends or solo. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/cachearts" target="_blank">CVCA Facebook page</a></td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white;">You can click on the map to enlarge it, but it still may be difficult to read. I've listed the venues alphabetically below. </span><span style="background-color: white;">You can start at any venue and pick up the map of the rest of the Gallery Walk.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span style="background-color: white;">If you want to start at one end or the other, Jack's Wood-Fired Oven is the northernmost venue and Gia's Italian Restaurant is the southernmost. You can also make a nice loop by parking near Federal Avenue and starting at Caffe Ibis.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><b>CVCA Gallery Walk Venues</b></span><br />
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CACHE VALLEY VISITORS BUREAU, <span style="background-color: white;">199 N MAIN ST</span><br />
The Photo Art of Mike Bullock
Photography<br />
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CAFFE IBIS GALLERY DELI, <span style="background-color: white;">52 FEDERAL AVE</span><br />
“Field and Fountain” by Brooke Lambert<br />
Oil and pastel paintings<br />
Music: Street Dance (Church & Federal)<br />
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CITRUS & SAGE and THE CREPERY, 131 N 100 E<br />
The Fine Art of Michael Langenheim<br />
Carvings and Paintings<br />
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CREATIVE THREADS and
THE IMAGE FOUNDRY LOCATION, 55 N MAIN ST<br />
“Transitions and Interplay” by Sam Capasso<br />
Digital Printer Ink on canvas - abstract interpretations<br />
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THE DIAMOND GALLERY &
SEGO EVENT PLANNING AND FLORAL DESIGN, 41 N MAIN ST<br />
Pastels by Susan Dunker<br />
Ceramics by Andrea Steffs<br />
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FUHRIMAN'S FRAMING & FINE ART, 75 S MAIN ST<br />
“Wilderness Watercolors” and acrylics by Ernie Verdine<br />
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GIA’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT, 119 S MAIN ST<br />
Pottery by Scott McClellan<br />
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GLOBAL VILLAGE GIFTS, 146 N 100 E<br />
"Other Worlds – Other Art”<br />
Visit <a href="http://www.globalvillagegifts.org/">www.globalvillagegifts.org</a> for details.<br />
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JACKS WOOD-FIRED OVEN, 256 N MAIN<br />
Cache Valley Cruise-In Photo Contest<br />
The Cache Valley Photographers<br />
On display through Aug 30<br />
meetup.com/cvphotographers<br />
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JOYRIDE BIKES, 65 S MAIN ST<br />
Mixed media prints by Vincent Cobb<br />
Woodcut, intaglio, stamp and stencil<br />
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LOGAN DOWNTOWN ALLIANCE at <span style="background-color: white;">INDIAN OVEN, 130 N MAIN ST</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">Landscape Photography by Logan Simmons</span><br />
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LOGAN FINE ART, 60 W 100 N<br />
One Man & Women Shows by David Jackson & Kristi Grussendorf<br />
Paintings by Barbara & Glen Edwards<br />
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MOUNTAIN PLACE GALLERY, 123 N MAIN ST (above The Sportsman)<br />
Paintings by Russ Fjeldsted
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OASIS BOOKS, 25 W CENTER ST<br />
David Holmes and Logan High School students and
Mt. Logan Middle School students<br />
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SDESIGNS AT THE THATCHER-YOUNG MANSION, 35 W 100 S<br />
Utah Watercolor Society – “Small Works Show”
<a href="http://www.utahwatercolor.org/">www.utahwatercolor.org</a><br />
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S.E. NEEDHAM JEWELERS, 141 N MAIN ST<br />
Photography by Josh Munns<br />
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THE SPIRIT GOAT, 28 FEDERAL AVE<br />
Mixed media – polymer clay by Sharon Ohlhorst<br />
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THE SPORTSMAN, 129 N MAIN ST<br />
Oil collage by Haley Cliften<br />
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ST. JOHN'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH, 85 E 100 N<br />
Paintings by Scott Bushman & watercolors by Neena Plant<br />
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UTAH PUBLIC RADIO, 43 S MAIN ST<br />
Strata: Mixed Media Paintings by Holly Conger<br />
Transfer collage, oil, & acrylic<br />
Music: Celtic harp by Julie ni Hewkin<br />
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WINBORG MASTERPIECES ART GALLERY, 55 N MAIN ST, 208<br />
Watercolors, oils & Gicleé Prints” by Jeremy & Larry Winborg<br />
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<b>My Faves</b><br />
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Some of these venues are new additions since the last time I went to the Gallery Walk. Some are old favorites like Caffe Ibis (which usually has live music and some yummy treats) and St. John's Episcopal Church, a lovely church downtown that was first constructed in 1909. In addition to its striking Western-Romanesque-Gothic architecture, St. John's has one very interesting feature I intend to write about later this week.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxVj43RO_dUUb-rYh47jUt8_1BxQ7BZDHFMPOHUwd9PIO9cQcqMFGHBBjSQNDoPx2e6PtAUK1Gq86TNxAHwbZHQsOOrpELB8pHRm_0J-A1vsRfQjkE628vcxqBpUFYD8ueRLKTbU9_xw/s1600/St_Johns_Episcopal_Church_Logan_Utah.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="388" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxVj43RO_dUUb-rYh47jUt8_1BxQ7BZDHFMPOHUwd9PIO9cQcqMFGHBBjSQNDoPx2e6PtAUK1Gq86TNxAHwbZHQsOOrpELB8pHRm_0J-A1vsRfQjkE628vcxqBpUFYD8ueRLKTbU9_xw/s640/St_Johns_Episcopal_Church_Logan_Utah.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From the <a href="http://www.stjohnschurch1.qwestoffice.net/" target="_blank">website</a> of St. John's Episcopal Church. Additional website <a href="http://stjohnslogan.org/" target="_blank">here</a>.</td></tr>
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I'd love it if you'd comment and share your weekend adventures, your own "Pick of the Week", or your past experiences with the CVCA gallery walk. Do tell!Testhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00847445179004483526noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-651923357748458551.post-89988265566638821682012-07-13T06:00:00.000-07:002012-07-13T06:00:03.579-07:00Elote (Mexican Corn on the Cob) at the Cache Valley Garedeners' MarketI was first introduced to <i>elote</i>, or Mexican corn on the cob, at the Cache County Fair in Logan in about 2007. I've looked forward to it as a summer fair stand tradition ever since (along with my beloved mini donuts), and I have even taken to making it at home. I was happy to see that the Mexican food stand at the <a href="http://www.lisaloveslogan.com/2012/06/cache-valley-gardeners-market-ongoing.html" target="_blank">Cache Valley Gardener's Market</a> (click the link for location and times) had <i>elotes</i> last Saturday.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4zkZHUPJTODKccV_eCl32VT9TmwlWjgPMVRUJ-61kxUK5vxbgllFQiu_iVHcUj9QOzp2hcl1wYbykb60gX2ZUPQUjcXo8Vz6EvFRJBKD8cl4V5Wl19IFLW0fnUEDHb9GYctwQ_QK13Q/s1600/Elote_Corn_Cache_Valley_Garderners_Market.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4zkZHUPJTODKccV_eCl32VT9TmwlWjgPMVRUJ-61kxUK5vxbgllFQiu_iVHcUj9QOzp2hcl1wYbykb60gX2ZUPQUjcXo8Vz6EvFRJBKD8cl4V5Wl19IFLW0fnUEDHb9GYctwQ_QK13Q/s640/Elote_Corn_Cache_Valley_Garderners_Market.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Mmmmm. Now I'm not going to tell you this is healthy, but I am going to tell you it's delicious. Corn on the cob with mayo, lime, cheese, and seasonings. This version used parmesan cheese, which isn't traditional, but was still tasty.</div>
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I had pupusas (again), and also a Brazilian fresh limeade. My brother-in-law makes this for some of our family gatherings, and I really enjoyed an icy cupful at the market.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiylim2WevTwOlImunN8540unM8KPYKN1XijAUBXYEvxdzXrgIUCDuJDNugd69srXAjXI7XyeN8zwfUVx4sEKvZyZb0wew_syQm8tPU5gPc7Qp2Z66bH-ecsRU52RLvcV8yOpxA8AWmlA/s1600/Brazilian_Limeade_Cache_Valley_Gardeners_Market.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiylim2WevTwOlImunN8540unM8KPYKN1XijAUBXYEvxdzXrgIUCDuJDNugd69srXAjXI7XyeN8zwfUVx4sEKvZyZb0wew_syQm8tPU5gPc7Qp2Z66bH-ecsRU52RLvcV8yOpxA8AWmlA/s640/Brazilian_Limeade_Cache_Valley_Gardeners_Market.jpg" width="474" /></a></div>
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Head over to my other blog, <a href="http://www.afarewelltocant.com/" target="_blank">A Farewell To Can't</a>, if you would like my recipes for <i>elotes</i> and Brazilian limeade. I didn't manage to get any produce at the market on Saturday, but I'm excited to see what's new this weekend.</div>
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<b>Downtown Logan Sidewalk Sale</b></div>
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For anyone who hasn't heard, downtown Logan has a big sidewalk sale going on this weekend. Head down to Main & Center Streets to check out the great shops and prices in our historic downtown.</div>
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LLL</div>
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<br /></div>Testhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00847445179004483526noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-651923357748458551.post-54363842544442961572012-07-12T06:00:00.000-07:002012-07-12T06:00:02.511-07:00Chocolate for Cheap! Alvey's Chocolates Factory Sale, July 9-14, 2012 - Richmond, UtahLocal Cache Valley candy company Alvey's Chocolates (or Alvey's Candies, I've seen it both ways) has a factory sale going on through Saturday, July 14 at their factory store in Richmond, Utah. I hadn't realized Alvey's has a factory store, so I left Alvey's off my list of <a href="http://www.lisaloveslogan.com/2012/06/how-its-made-food-factory-tours-in.html" target="_blank">factory tours and stores in Cache Valley</a>. I'll have to add it! Since the <a href="http://www.lisaloveslogan.com/2012/06/how-its-made-food-factory-tours-in.html" target="_blank">Pepperidge Farm factory</a> and store is also in Richmond, you could go to both in one trip and stock up on lots of yummy goodies at great prices. Here are the details of the Alvey's sale.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDXVSnHAGegdjus1-9L_-s8wqKpoEdDcNhnVXhbAwmkbiuAVlCfn8v6fHojUbtGrTEwkFelOjH9u9Z-6unZhMegry-wvsid-qnGPfrZLjjGxmipVnRuCxBg7RKTgCTl4hGv8CjYofHhg/s1600/Logo+with+Candies+Inc+Transparent+Background+3+in.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="157" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDXVSnHAGegdjus1-9L_-s8wqKpoEdDcNhnVXhbAwmkbiuAVlCfn8v6fHojUbtGrTEwkFelOjH9u9Z-6unZhMegry-wvsid-qnGPfrZLjjGxmipVnRuCxBg7RKTgCTl4hGv8CjYofHhg/s320/Logo+with+Candies+Inc+Transparent+Background+3+in.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Alvey's Chocolates Factory Sale</b></div>
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63 E. 300 S. Richmond, Utah</div>
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9am-4pm - <span style="background-color: white;">July 9-14, 2012</span></div>
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<b>Factory Seconds</b>, regularly $7.50/lb., NOW $6.00/lb.</div>
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<b>Milk Mint Wafers</b> (seconds), 5 lb. bag for $25.00</div>
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<b>Dark Mint Wafers</b> (seconds), 5 lb. bag for $20.00</div>
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<b style="background-color: white;">Overstock Firsts</b><span style="background-color: white;">, regularly $16.50/lb., NOW $8.25/lb.</span></div>
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<i><i style="background-color: white;"><b>While supplies last!</b></i></i></div>
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Alvey's has been creating handmade chocolates and candies in Cache Valley since 1980. Alvey's has a retail store in Logan at the Cache Valley Mall, and its products are also available at a few grocery stores in the area. (I'm sure they're at Lee's Marketplace, because I sometimes succumb to buying an Alvey's treat in the check-out line).<br />
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The <a href="http://www.alveyschocolates.com/" target="_blank">Alvey's website</a> appears to be under construction, but it does have some information about the company. Watch the two-minute video below to learn more about Alvey's and to see the retail store and some of the yummy products. Warning! You might have a craving chocolate after you watch this!<br />
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<br /></div>Testhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00847445179004483526noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-651923357748458551.post-74540262964194724692012-07-11T06:00:00.000-07:002012-07-11T06:00:12.037-07:00Reader Suggestions From Around The ValleyWhew! Keeping up with daily posting on this blog and A Farewell To Can't (<a href="http://www.afarewelltocant.com/">www.afarewelltocant.com</a>), plus the rest of my life, has me feeling like I'm falling behind. You should see the state of my house! Today's post will be brief. That way I can spend some time cleaning my house, and some time taking my kids to do fun things like this:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOR2fRbwJra8or17ynbbWYjA4ZUmvNYX2mR2Uzx1n31ApCEZikiUp4zF35aa_cntfg2MKQinNKEq7f2NHYMLIwWZvR1ogdYPxClSJ0MdkxMR8XMygj1qJgsNF1k2c5r0ONiv-4cCyYmQ/s1600/Willow_Park_Playground_Logan_Utah.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOR2fRbwJra8or17ynbbWYjA4ZUmvNYX2mR2Uzx1n31ApCEZikiUp4zF35aa_cntfg2MKQinNKEq7f2NHYMLIwWZvR1ogdYPxClSJ0MdkxMR8XMygj1qJgsNF1k2c5r0ONiv-4cCyYmQ/s640/Willow_Park_Playground_Logan_Utah.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Playing on the playground at Willow Park, Logan, Utah</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Not only will today's post will be brief, but and I'm letting someone else write it for me: YOU!</span><br />
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Here are some recent reader suggestions of fun things to do, see, and eat in Logan and Cache Valley.<br />
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<b>Green Canyon</b><br />
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"Green Canyon might be a fun one to do a post about with all the things there are to do up there. My husband especially loves the single track for mountain biking and we are planning on back packing higher up the trail (we've heard it's good to backpack further up past the very top where you can't drive anymore?? I don't know much about it yet) and doing more camping. We like it for a great (and FREE!) camping spot."<br />
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<b>Belly Dancing</b><br />
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"I really love the belly dancing shows on the last Saturdays of the month at Indian Oven. The dancers are from the Shimmering Sands school at the Whittier Center (formerly the USU Middle Eastern Dance Club). Speaking of them, you can take belly dance lessons from Shimmering Sands, I have and it is good exercise and a lot of fun. You should contact the Whittier for a list of their tenants and the classes they offer to the public, they are a great resource."<br />
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<b>Logan's Heroes and Other Great Local Sandwiches</b><br />
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"The owner of [Logan's Heroes] is from Iran, he has a fantastic memory and loves chatting with everyone who comes in (I love the roger's special). For local, non-chain restaurants I'd say to also check out Logan Burger & Sandwiches (chicken parmesan sub), the Italian Place (a Beaver or a 4 Seasons), Sweetly Divine (Turkey with jalepeno jelly), Crumb Brothers, The Factory, Firehouse, Jack's Wood Fired Pizza, Papa Kelsey's & Henry, and Juniper Take Out (Turkey steak sandwich). They all have different styles, try them all and find the one that you love!"<br />
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<b>Other Food Trucks Besides Street Eats</b><br />
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"This isn't actually the first. There are a couple taco trucks in town, 2 BBQ trucks, the Pauni's food truck, and the Gossner's Grilled Cheese truck that actually goes all over the state. They don't all always have a set spot but I know Rollin' West BBQ likes to park in front of Aaron's on main or Sears up on 100 E. Tacos El Ray is all over town. Most of these places have facebook pages where you can track where they are going to be...<br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">...The taco trucks and bbq truck tend to have 3 or 4 locations they stick with but do move around a bit. One of the BBQ trucks did apparently go out of business. As far as I know the school bus taco truck North of Hamilton's isn't really a mobile operation and is there all the time. We used to have a hot dog stand on Main street that moved around a bit, but they seem to have disappeared. I kind of wish we had more and I'd love to seem them be allowed to set up on campus where I'm sure they'd do great. My friends in D.C. and L.A. wax poetical about their food trucks."</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">Thank you for your contributions, I'd love to hear more. See you tomorrow!</span>Testhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00847445179004483526noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-651923357748458551.post-11086463659693819972012-07-10T06:00:00.000-07:002012-07-10T06:00:07.653-07:00La Tormenta - North Logan, Utah - Restaurant Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><i>Note: La Tormenta does not have a menu available online or in hard copy form at the restaurant. I took photos of the wall menu. Scroll to the bottom of the post to see the full menu, including prices.</i></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio3dE726isUwtUCyx3oO7frJHFwUT0FodetSJweqyCCOSX2GVB-rMP8tNz2p5ml1MkvJO8c23cn8QrA-OFmQULxkmk1WZfddy4GvgW4C_kCj7WyTscQOXGIaxs7aSZHEiZh0WL8g0F4g/s1600/La_Tormenta_Logan_Utah_Exterior.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio3dE726isUwtUCyx3oO7frJHFwUT0FodetSJweqyCCOSX2GVB-rMP8tNz2p5ml1MkvJO8c23cn8QrA-OFmQULxkmk1WZfddy4GvgW4C_kCj7WyTscQOXGIaxs7aSZHEiZh0WL8g0F4g/s400/La_Tormenta_Logan_Utah_Exterior.JPG" width="295" /></a><span style="background-color: white;">Dollar tacos. Need I say more? </span><span style="background-color: white;">Oh, I do? Well, okay. </span><span style="background-color: white;">Authentic Mexican dollar tacos with savory meat fillings ensconced in a double layer of soft corn tortillas, sprinkled with fresh cilantro and minced onion, with fresh limes on the side for a squeeze of puckery juice. I have half a mind to end this review right here and go get some!</span><span style="background-color: white;"><br /><br />La Tormenta is one of those places my family returns to again and again. It is definitely one of our favorite Cache Valley restaurants. It's cheap, walkable from our house, has delicious sodas and ice cream treats, and then there are those tacos.</span><span style="background-color: white;"><br /><br />We're clearly not the only people who like La Tormenta. It used to be located in a smaller location in the Pinecrest Village shopping center (on 1400 North, east of Cafe Rio), but a few years ago it expanded into a larger building north of Walmart in North Logan. I don't know if I've ever seen it not busy during open hours.</span></div>
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<b>La Tormenta</b></div>
105 East 1600 North, North Logan, Utah 84341<br />
435-787-4640<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/La-Tormenta-Restaurant/111573685547384">http://www.facebook.com/pages/La-Tormenta-Restaurant/111573685547384</a>
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<b style="background-color: white;">Hours: </b><span style="background-color: white;">Monday-Sunday 9am-10pm</span><br />
<b style="background-color: white;">Price range:</b><span style="background-color: white;"> $1 - $11</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><b>Take-out Available:</b> Yes</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><b>Delivery Available: </b>No</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><b>FYI: </b>Candy and snacks also available for purchase<br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><b>Quick Review of La Tormenta - North Logan, Utah</b></span><br />
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La Tormenta is a Mexican restaurant that might be referred to as a dive or a hole-in-the-wall, but what it lacks in ambiance it more than makes up for in tasty food at a low price point. <span style="background-color: white;">Don't worry, the name La Tormenta doesn't mean "the torment", but actually means "storm". With fluorescent lights, a crowded dining room, a brightly-colored double-height mural on one wall, and a cacophony of Spanish and English conversations, La Tormenta *is* a bit of a storm for the senses. But it's the sense of taste that matters, and La Tormenta delivers.</span><span style="background-color: white;"><br />Pick up a Mexican Coke or a Sangria Senorial from the plentifully-stocked beverage case, then proceed to the counter to order. Your food will be brought to your table along with a caddy of condiments, and you'll pay at the counter when you're done. Authentic tacos are $1 each and are available with many choices of filling, all topped with a pile of cilantro and onions. My favorite are the carnitas (sweet shredded pork) and the chorizo (spicy pork sausage), while my husband goes for the asada (steak) and the lengua (beef tongue). Tortas, the carne asada plate, smothered burritos, and tamales are other good choices. A paleta (ice cream bar) from the freezer case - coconut and creamy strawberry are my favorites - completes the meal.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">The meat choices for tacos and other dishes are as follows: asada (steak), adovada (spicy pork), al pastor (sweet & spicy pork), carnitas (sweet pork), buche (pork stomach), lengua (beef tongue), cabeza (beef head), tripas (beef stomach), pollo (chicken), and chorizo (spicy pork sausage).</span><br />
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The beverage case includes a wide variety of Mexican and American sodas and juices. Fountain drinks are also available, as well as horchata (my favorite).</div>
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A variety of ice cream treats are available in the freezer case.</div>
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The menu is on the wall, and is also printed on the ordering counter.</div>
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A whiteboard announces any daily specials.</div>
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A colorful mural covers the west wall of the dining room.</div>
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One of the best features of La Tormenta is the condiment caddy, which features grilled onions, pico de gallo or salsa verde, and pickled carrots and jalapenos.</div>
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Clockwise from top: four carnitas tacos, shrimp tostada, four lengua tacos, quesadilla. We also had chorizo tacos and a torta. $18 for three adults and two children.</div>
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A selection of seven hot sauces on our table. I like the Bufalo chipotle sauce, third from the left.</div>
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Shrimp tostada with a cocktail-type sauce and perfect, creamy avocados</div>
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Chorizo tacos, my favorite. La Tormenta also offers tacos dorados, crispy fried tacos that come with crumbled queso fresco.</div>
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Here are the photos of the La Tormenta menu. You can click on the pictures for slightly larger versions.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKdrml6i0oLlYpDw63x6lQuw4g2p1uazQry_ySS-4C_FWN1pUt2_JEwjgoP3uiGS9NRPUoiZHgyZNRG2hAAtDifxuLmeTewo324qmO27GnurzmBn-EEavBKSjXYZZqQIcn3qw27GPiZA/s1600/La_Tormenta_Logan_Utah_Menu2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="460" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKdrml6i0oLlYpDw63x6lQuw4g2p1uazQry_ySS-4C_FWN1pUt2_JEwjgoP3uiGS9NRPUoiZHgyZNRG2hAAtDifxuLmeTewo324qmO27GnurzmBn-EEavBKSjXYZZqQIcn3qw27GPiZA/s640/La_Tormenta_Logan_Utah_Menu2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXd6LCfbrMbFOOXoFMeE6grV8uAkh1pDoPdoYsftNHVAlIV4OWDsvoYQXzyR5zWZlY44C9rspnGm1cBVq7hod_HQxivOapx0K-QOA_a9WdIldL3yWHLLoGumhdkZLsB4Ytf0Pgc28wnw/s1600/La_Tormenta_Logan_Utah_Menu3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="406" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXd6LCfbrMbFOOXoFMeE6grV8uAkh1pDoPdoYsftNHVAlIV4OWDsvoYQXzyR5zWZlY44C9rspnGm1cBVq7hod_HQxivOapx0K-QOA_a9WdIldL3yWHLLoGumhdkZLsB4Ytf0Pgc28wnw/s640/La_Tormenta_Logan_Utah_Menu3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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</span>Testhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00847445179004483526noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-651923357748458551.post-55642982392318221342012-07-09T05:00:00.000-07:002012-07-09T14:33:31.934-07:00New Look, New AddressTake a look up there in the address bar ^^^<br />
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That's right, Lisa Loves Logan now resides on its own domain, <a href="http://www.lisaloveslogan.com/">www.lisaloveslogan.com</a>! I was having a hard time getting some kinks ironed out at first, but I think I've got it working. Your patience is appreciated! Please let me know about any bugs or issues.<br />
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I also put together a little blog header to showcase some Cache Valley scenery. Graphic designer, I'm not. I'll change it out when I take a better/clearer photo or figure out something different, but for now enjoy a view of the Wellsvilles from Hyrum Dam.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5u949IyYlIo2FX7xid7hbMUB4rT9qXB_xYvD5iL8fFNg282jl7R2PWD8ekYQ4MxID6oTdAgFuj565tCPqr87S2V3lCvNC-qE4t4oPZ6wgBPgblWGvacwFbm7bUXaaTVJvH7xPl7zIwQ/s1600/headertest2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="100" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5u949IyYlIo2FX7xid7hbMUB4rT9qXB_xYvD5iL8fFNg282jl7R2PWD8ekYQ4MxID6oTdAgFuj565tCPqr87S2V3lCvNC-qE4t4oPZ6wgBPgblWGvacwFbm7bUXaaTVJvH7xPl7zIwQ/s640/headertest2.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">This Thursday will mark four weeks of posting on this blog. I'm starting to feel like things are really up and rolling. I'd love for you to spread the word about Lisa Loves Logan to anyone who lives in, visits, or has any other connection to Logan and Cache Valley. If you decide to share this blog with anyone on Facebook or Twitter, or by email, just remember the address is now</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">www.lisaloveslogan.com</span></b></div>
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I've always wanted to blog about my local area (wherever it was - frustrated restaurant critic here). <span style="background-color: white;">I am a HUGE supporter of local, and I believe that small- and medium-sized businesses are the backbone of America. Lets support and report!</span></div>
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<b>So, who's here and who's with me? Leave a comment, please! Tell me one fun, local thing you did this weekend.</b></div>
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LLL</div>Testhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00847445179004483526noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-651923357748458551.post-80247756603441803682012-07-06T10:22:00.001-07:002012-07-06T10:45:04.300-07:00Da Nang Bistro Update - Cache Valley Gardeners' Market"Our Da Chanh ice cream sandwich is inspired by the Vietnamese lemonade. Citrus, mint, sugar, and a touch of sea salt meets the coolness of a lemongrass ice cream with wild blueberries. Our most requested frozen offering!"<br />
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--Da Nang Bistro</div>
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Doesn't that description just get your mouth watering!? I mentioned in my last post about the farmers' market, <a href="http://lisaloveslogan.blogspot.com/2012/07/lovely-pupusas-and-last-strawberries.html">Lovely Pupusas and Last Strawberries</a>, that I was looking forward to eating Vietnamese food from Da Nang Bistro this week at the market. Well, count me as disappointed to hear that they are taking this weekend off! However, they will be back at the market on July 14, 21, and 28.<br />
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Hopefully I will get to try their ice cream sandwich and Vietnamese summer salad with lemongrass grilled pork on one of these later weeks in July. I'll be back here to tell about it when I do! Visit <a href="http://www.facebook.com/DaNangBistro">Da Nang Bistro's Facebook page</a> for more information.</div>
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Don't forget to take a look at today's post about <a href="http://lisaloveslogan.blogspot.com/2012/07/splish-splash-three-fun-places-to-get.html">Places To Get Wet</a> in Logan and Cache Valley. Whether you want to swim, dive, slide, or wade, there's something for you. And stay tuned for Monday's review of La Tormenta. My post will include the full restaurant menu, which has as yet been unavailable online (as far as I can find). Have a great weekend!</div>
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P.S.: Who can remind me of the name of the Vietnamese restaurant that used to be where Logan Burgers is located? I ate there once, in 2002, shortly after I moved here. How long was it open? Where were the proprietors, and where are they now?</div>
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<br />Testhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00847445179004483526noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-651923357748458551.post-67201046271947697582012-07-06T05:00:00.000-07:002012-07-25T13:38:21.157-07:00Splish Splash! Three Fun Places To Get Wet In Cache Valley<i>Note: The water activities in this post can be added to the <a href="http://lisaloveslogan.blogspot.com/2012/06/how-its-made-food-factory-tours-in.html" target="_blank">factory tours in my earlier post</a> and the animal-related activities in an upcoming post for a day full of fun things to do with young kids in Logan and Cache Valley. Whether you live in Logan or you're visiting on a vacation or day trip, you can make a fun day of activities that please kids and/or adults. A later post will also cover some kid-friendly parks and eating options in the valley.</i><br />
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<i>Note #2: The Logan area also has a splash pad. Read details here: <a href="http://www.lisaloveslogan.com/2012/07/first-splash-pad-in-cache-valley-alma.html" target="_blank">First Splash Pad In Cache Valley - Alma Leonhardt Park, Providence, Utah</a></i><br />
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<b>Get Wet!</b><br />
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July's hot summer days call for some cool and refreshing water activities, and Cache Valley delivers. From all-out swimming to simple wading, there are some great places to get wet in Logan and the surrounding communities. I picked a few favorites to showcase today: Hyrum State Park, Merlin Olsen Central Park, and the Logan Aquatic Center. I also have a couple of rainy-day options at the end of the post, for those days when the weather just isn't cooperating. Be sure to comment on this post if you have suggestions of other great swimming/wading places in Cache Valley.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVi5sSalUSxftjD3XExWs4cRXcaqC_PvrgdbAINeXpV62um3uq855WI7NoRefCTf3dvReREqKVj4hKv8GCDDhJqSONO6eiiy2y7-l2QqqQnjgvc8vsPVM4tuORAzEOY167kOrWk44yaw/s1600/IMG_0236.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVi5sSalUSxftjD3XExWs4cRXcaqC_PvrgdbAINeXpV62um3uq855WI7NoRefCTf3dvReREqKVj4hKv8GCDDhJqSONO6eiiy2y7-l2QqqQnjgvc8vsPVM4tuORAzEOY167kOrWk44yaw/s640/IMG_0236.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beach area at Hyrum Dam / Hyrum State Park - Hyrum, Utah</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><b>Hyrum State Park</b></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">Popularly known as Hyrum Dam, Hyrum State Park is located about 10 miles south of Logan and includes a reservoir, beach area, and campground. The lake is appropriate for fishing, water-skiing, tubing, canoeing, kayaking, and swimming. Rocky outcroppings around the shore allow for cliff-jumping (with proper precautions). A nice, sandy/pebbly beach area is a good place for picnics, relaxation, and suntanning. On a recent day I noticed <a href="http://www.usu.edu/camprec/htm/orp" target="_blank">USU's Outdoor Recreation Programs (ORP)</a> had a rental booth near the beach for kayaks, canoes, and other water equipment. Call the ORP at 435-797-3264 for details on rentals at the lake.<br /><br /><b>Hyrum State Park</b></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">405 West 300 South, Hyrum, Utah 84319</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">435-245-6866 - main park number</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">801-322-3770 - camping reservations</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">800-322-3770 - toll-free camping reservations</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><b>Day Use Hours:</b> Summer: 6am-10pm; Winter: 8am-5pm; Holiday Closures: Thanksgiving, Christmas</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><b>Day Use Fees:</b> For improved areas, $6 per car for up to 8 people, walk-in fee $3 per person. Unimproved areas of the shoreline can be accessed for free. Visit website for camping fees.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><b>Website:</b>
<a href="http://stateparks.utah.gov/parks/hyrum">http://stateparks.utah.gov/parks/hyrum</a><br /><b>FYI:</b> Concessions and restrooms available</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaRjAo50FndxZpfPdeq64PWQssoCjrhCKKuvRXmdgPd0JDYH3x3uPAYhpK6BZTZ9akBSjczmJovbJqd-K6TRFUS4sOuvvGSjjkSy1CF5uPATksfaVnEKHgL5kHUb6AZNE26NMoTU8fqg/s1600/IMG_0234.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaRjAo50FndxZpfPdeq64PWQssoCjrhCKKuvRXmdgPd0JDYH3x3uPAYhpK6BZTZ9akBSjczmJovbJqd-K6TRFUS4sOuvvGSjjkSy1CF5uPATksfaVnEKHgL5kHUb6AZNE26NMoTU8fqg/s640/IMG_0234.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><b>Merlin Olsen Central Park</b></span></div>
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Merlin Olsen Central Park, located on the edge of downtown Logan, is one of the area's oldest parks, having existed in some form since shortly after Logan was settled in 1859. Merlin Olsen Park hosts the <a href="http://lisaloveslogan.blogspot.com/2012/07/lovely-pupusas-and-last-strawberries.html" target="_blank">Cache Valley Gardeners' Market</a> on Saturdays throughout the summer. A shallow canal runs east to west across the park and provides a fun and safe place for kids and adults to wade and splash in the water. The water could be described as refreshing, bracing, or frigid, depending on the time of year and your tolerance for cold water! The temperature didn't stop these kids, observed on a recent visit. The water is shallow enough for children from about 2.5 years on up to wade safely with a parent. The playground is directly south of the canal, making this a fun, free place to play with kids.</div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><b>Merlin Olsen Central Park</b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">300 East Center Street, Logan, Utah 84321 (The closest parking spots to the canal are </span><span style="background-color: white;">on 300 East between Center Street and 100 South, </span><span style="background-color: white;">near the basketball and tennis courts.)</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><b>Hours:</b> Sunrise to Sunset</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><b>Cost:</b> Free</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><b>Website:</b> </span><a href="http://www.loganutah.org/parks_and_rec/parks_and_trails/parks/merlinolsen.cfm">http://www.loganutah.org/parks_and_rec/parks_and_trails/parks/merlinolsen.cfm</a></div>
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<b>Logan Aquatic Center</b><br />
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The Logan Aquatic Center (LAC) is Logan City's outdoor pool complex, which opened in 2001. It is open from approximately Memorial Day until Labor Day, seven days a week. The LAC features three pools. The first is a 50-meter Olympic-sized lap pool with 1 meter and 3 meter diving boards in an additional diving well. The second is a large semi-circular kiddie/relaxation pool that ranges in depth from 6" to 3' and includes a mushroom water feature and a tumble bucket. The third is a small pool at the base of two water slides, the Speed Slide (must be 48" to ride) and the Circular Slide (must be 40" to ride). Something to please everyone!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photos from the Grand Opening of the Logan Aquatic Center, from <a href="http://www.loganutah.org/parks_and_rec/aquatic_center/grand_opening.cfm" target="_blank">here</a></td></tr>
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The LAC boasts a capacity of 2000 people, and I daresay it reaches capacity on some summer days. But even when it's crowded it's still a great place to enjoy the water with kids.<br />
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<b>Logan Aquatic Center</b><br />
451 South 500 West, Logan, Utah 84321<br />
435-716-9280<br />
<b>Open Swim Hours:</b> Monday 12-8pm, Tuesday-Saturday 12-7pm, Sunday 12-6pm. Holiday hours are 12-7pm. Please see LAC Flyer for Lap Swim hours.<br />
<b>Fees:</b> $5 for ages 4-59, $3.35 for 60+, no charge for 3 and under, $2 for spectators. Monday night from 4-8pm is discount night, $15 for all members of an immediate family.<br />
<b>Website:</b> <a href="http://www.loganutah.org/parks_and_rec/aquatic_center/index.cfm">http://www.loganutah.org/parks_and_rec/aquatic_center/index.cfm</a><br />
<b>FYI:</b> Life jackets are available for day use, free with a photo ID. All children under three years old, and all children not toilet trained, must wear a disposable swim diaper AND waterproof pants. Food available at the concession stand.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><b>Rainy Day Options</b></span><br />
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If you or your kids were counting on a water activity but the weather isn't cooperating, both the Sports Academy & Racquet Club and USU have indoor pools which are available to the public for day use. Sports Academy has a warm indoor therapy pool with a depth of 3', in addition to a lap pool.<br />
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<b>Sports Academy & Racquet Club</b><br />
1655 North 200 East, North Logan, Utah 84341<br />
435-753-7500<br />
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<b>Hours:</b> Open swim hours vary, please call for details or visit <a href="http://www.sportsacademy.com/">w<span style="background-color: white;">ww.sportsacademy.com</span></a> for the pool schedule<br />
<b>Day use fees:</b> $10 for adults, $5 for children. Please call to verify.<br />
<b>Website:</b> <a href="http://www.sportsacademy.com/">www.sportsacademy.com</a><br />
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<b>USU Swimming Pool</b><br />
HPER Building, USU Campus, 700 North 800 East, Logan, Utah<br />
435-797-0538<br />
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<b>Hours:</b> Open recreational swim is available Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 1pm to 6:45pm<br />
<b>Day use fees: </b>$5 per person for the public<br />
<b>Website:</b> <a href="http://www.usu.edu/camprec/htm/aquatics/">www.usu.edu/camprec/htm/aquatics/</a><br />
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LLL<br />
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P.S.: What's your favorite place to swim or wade in Cache Valley? Any suggestions I left off the list?<br />
<br />Testhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00847445179004483526noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-651923357748458551.post-38591512719809100392012-07-05T16:32:00.000-07:002012-07-05T18:01:10.494-07:00Herm's Inn: Before Photo - Canyon Road, Logan, UtahI was just granted permission by the photographer to use this photo, taken of the Herm's Inn building on Canyon Road in Logan in 2007 before it was restored and renovated and became the restaurant we know today. Check out this before and after! I'll be adding the photo to my <a href="http://lisaloveslogan.blogspot.com/2012/06/herms-inn-logan-utah-restaurant-review.html">review of Herm's Inn</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbAd74rzarnMfcvx24mHX7amCKa7y54FzHj5n-HBOSOGzBXaEdPSTx9tQMej8X9CpIghNoZU4WUii3p0CDnMVC5xADyPN53PF8GSHtdDOVbxJWaKwekCJIOlBvcNFph7DYKBaOEO3iBg/s1600/Herms_Inn_logan_Utah_Before_Photo_Heinz_Mahler.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="472" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbAd74rzarnMfcvx24mHX7amCKa7y54FzHj5n-HBOSOGzBXaEdPSTx9tQMej8X9CpIghNoZU4WUii3p0CDnMVC5xADyPN53PF8GSHtdDOVbxJWaKwekCJIOlBvcNFph7DYKBaOEO3iBg/s640/Herms_Inn_logan_Utah_Before_Photo_Heinz_Mahler.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Photo copyright Heinz J. Mahler, 2007. Used by permission.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQpKjFy8-tE0MVoqAqGPvhErClrKH-LwKxAUVxudaJVvTyX7_uE2ENW-zqcBrlx1Cwf-AIqukOVoWmNGUoOUlhTRkvCPVlhzkQbh4Vc8O6dogCKhoiWM3u9XKH9-vBw3JqWoPcfu7yNA/s1600/Herms_Inn_Exterior_LisaLovesLogan_Utah.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQpKjFy8-tE0MVoqAqGPvhErClrKH-LwKxAUVxudaJVvTyX7_uE2ENW-zqcBrlx1Cwf-AIqukOVoWmNGUoOUlhTRkvCPVlhzkQbh4Vc8O6dogCKhoiWM3u9XKH9-vBw3JqWoPcfu7yNA/s640/Herms_Inn_Exterior_LisaLovesLogan_Utah.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by Lisa Baker-Heaton, 2012.</td></tr>
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<br /></div>Testhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00847445179004483526noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-651923357748458551.post-12102257754769293192012-07-05T07:23:00.000-07:002012-07-05T09:22:06.534-07:00Cache Valley Cruise-In, July 5, 6, & 7, 2012 - Logan, Utah<div>
Have you noticed a lot of fancy-looking cars in the canyon and around Logan? It must be time for the Cache Valley Cruise-In, one of Cache Valley's favorite annual events!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Q8ekbdCOZXCRWYfyBT13W_h4crN9bDFu5xz36VSWKVSX2e-mPdS2MQctVVaVhDIi7bU-laz7fLVb2QeTbbEKsvIoKToDAehb1MdU5mpmrRi3doKJ2wDRBbyOzc5armKTXdmyL4b-fA/s1600/2012CruiseinLogo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Q8ekbdCOZXCRWYfyBT13W_h4crN9bDFu5xz36VSWKVSX2e-mPdS2MQctVVaVhDIi7bU-laz7fLVb2QeTbbEKsvIoKToDAehb1MdU5mpmrRi3doKJ2wDRBbyOzc5armKTXdmyL4b-fA/s400/2012CruiseinLogo.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The Cache Valley Cruise-In car show, a local tradition put on by the Cache Valley Cruising Association since 1982, starts today in Logan. Get on down to the fairgrounds to take a look at the hot rods, custom cars, restored classic cars, motorcycles, and trucks owned by enthusiasts from throughout the region. Over 1000 vehicles will participate, and food and other vendors will be on site. Your admission ticket even makes you eligible for a chance to win this year's giveaway car, a fully-restored and tricked out 1928 Ford Model A.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrCbblqJ8G7SXyzCxR9WVgOHBKf02MxB3fMeyoIh00f-YVVfwFtJOHEJHV7OP2O34clONkMKohi3f6Enw7xq1E_IGQEXRZibQxlsyd-QO9SHw6bX07BEAkXa9frUfldyblu-_JLHj04w/s1600/Cruise_In_Giveaway_Car_1928_Ford_Model_A.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrCbblqJ8G7SXyzCxR9WVgOHBKf02MxB3fMeyoIh00f-YVVfwFtJOHEJHV7OP2O34clONkMKohi3f6Enw7xq1E_IGQEXRZibQxlsyd-QO9SHw6bX07BEAkXa9frUfldyblu-_JLHj04w/s640/Cruise_In_Giveaway_Car_1928_Ford_Model_A.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2012 Cruise-In Giveaway Car, 1928 Ford Model A, from <a href="http://www.cachevalleycruisein.net/index.php/giveaway-car/" target="_blank">here</a></td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white;">And don't forget the Cruise-In parade down Main Street this Saturday night. Car show participants cruise slowly down main a couple at a time. That alone takes a few hours. Then when the official parade is over, spectators and locals usually form their own parade and drag main until after dark. Be smart, be safe, and have fun!</span></div>
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<b>What:</b> Cache Valley Cruise-In annual car show</div>
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<b>When:</b> July 5-7, 2012, see below for full calendar of events</div>
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<b>Where:</b> Cache County Fairgrounds, 400 South between 300 West and 500 West, Logan, Utah (450 S. 500 W., office address)</div>
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<b>Cost:</b> $8 for adults, $1 for children 5-17, free for children age 4 and under. Ticket is good for all three days of the show. Each adult ticket is eligible for the drawing for the giveaway car.<br />
<b>FYI:</b> Food available for purchase at the show. I hear <a href="http://www.facebook.com/SavannahsBBQ?ref=ts" target="_blank">Savannah's BBQ</a> and <a href="http://lisaloveslogan.blogspot.com/2012/06/street-eats-logans-first-food-truck.html" target="_blank">Street Eats</a> will be among the local vendors.</div>
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Here's a short video to give you a taste of the Cruise-In, including the Poker Run, Show-N-Shine, Sock Hop, and Parade...</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/O6Rr8Nsi79g?rel=0" width="420"></iframe>
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<b>Cruise-In Calendar of Events</b><br />
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<b>THURSDAY - July 5, 2012</b></div>
8:00 am – 5:00 pm Registration at Crystal Inn Hotel & Suites (853 South Main, Logan)<br />
3:00 am – 5:00 pm Poker Run to Bear Lake<br />
5:00 pm – 6:30 pm Chicken Dinner at Garden City (Bear Lake)<br />
8:00 pm – 10:00 pm Lip Sync Contest/Street Rod Fashion Show<br />
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<b>FRIDAY - JULY 6, 2012</b><br />
8:00 am – 5:00 pm Registration at Crystal Inn Hotel & Suites (853 South Main, Logan)<br />
9:00 am – 4:30 pm Show-N-Shine<br />
10:00 am – 5:00 pm Women's World<br />
10:00 am – 5:00 pm Swap meet, commercial booths, & food court<br />
11:00 am – Noon Kids Games<br />
Food available from Vendors at Fairgrounds<br />
8:00 pm – 10:00 pm Sock Hop at Fairgrounds<br />
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<b>SATURDAY - JULY 7, 2012</b><br />
8:00 am – 11:00 am Chuck-wagon Breakfast Buffet at fairgrounds<br />
8:00 am – Noon Registration at Crystal Inn Hotel & Suites (853 South Main, Logan)<br />
9:00 am – 4:30 pm Show-N-Shine<br />
10:00 am - 5:00 pm Women's World<br />
10:00 am – 5:00 pm Swap meet, commercial booths, & food court<br />
11:00 am – Noon Kids Games<br />
4:30 pm – Awards Ceremony in Rodeo Arena<br />
6:00 pm – Drawing for Giveaway Car – 1928 Ford Model A Sedan Delivery<br />
6:30 pm – 8:30 pm Main Street Cruising Parade<br />
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Visit the website of the Cache Valley Cruising Association at <a href="http://www.cachevalleycruisein.net/" style="background-color: white;">www.cachevalleycruisein.net</a> for more info.<br />
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Happy Cruising!<br />
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LLL<br />
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P.S. Have you been to the Cruise-In? Do you go every year? What's your favorite part? I think I like driving through the canyon and seeing all the classic vehicles come into town. The parade is fun, too. Share your Cruise-In tips, memories, and secrets in the comments!</div>
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</b>Testhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00847445179004483526noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-651923357748458551.post-58313741990807664422012-07-04T05:00:00.000-07:002012-07-04T05:00:14.951-07:00Happy 4th of July!!!Happy Independence Day! Did you catch the <a href="http://lisaloveslogan.blogspot.com/2012/07/4th-of-july-freedom-fire-2012-plus-my.html" target="_blank">USU fireworks (Freedom Fire)</a> last night? To my surprise, I had a pretty good view from my house (near Lowe's) and an even better view when I walked to a little lawn east of Lowe's. Just my middle child and I watched them together. Everyone else was asleep at home. The show looked great! I guess I have a new "secret spot".<br /><br />I'm taking a little break from posting today for some family time. We'll decide between the <a href="http://lisaloveslogan.blogspot.com/2012/07/hyrum-lewiston-4th-of-july-celebrations.html" target="_blank">Lewiston and Hyrum festivities</a>, and there is talk of homemade ice cream at my in-laws' in Paradise. Family, food, and freedom...that's a great 4th of July!<br />
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We also have been spending some time on some remodeling projects so we can list our condo for sale. We're outgrowing it! I've done a little house hunting and came across a house in Smithfield I adore, quite irrationally. If you're interested, you can take a look at it on my other blog: <a href="http://afarewelltocant.blogspot.com/2012/06/beloved-vintage-1970s-dream-home-part.html">http://afarewelltocant.blogspot.com/2012/06/beloved-vintage-1970s-dream-home-part.html</a>. It is truly stuck in 1977, and worth seeing, if only for the heart-shaped bathtub in the basement!<br />
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See you Thursday with a write-up on a few fun water activities to do with kids in the valley!<br />
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LLLTesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00847445179004483526noreply@blogger.com0