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  • 💛 This week’s spotlight shines on BRIE’s global homestay program, Plus Your Local Mother’s Day Gift Guide!

💛 This week’s spotlight shines on BRIE’s global homestay program, Plus Your Local Mother’s Day Gift Guide!

Issue # 486 - Celebrate local love and global connection—BRIE opens its doors to cultural exchange, moms get the spotlight with our gift guide, and serious headlines include a cartel-linked drug bust and paving frustrations in Farmington.

Craving something bold, flavorful, and made with love?
MakMak Thai Cuisine serves up authentic Thai dishes that hit the spot every time! From savory curries to fresh stir-fries, there's something for every palate.

In this Issue . . .

⭐️ Local Business Spotlight Feature: Bear River International Experience (affectionately called "BRIE") opens doors to cultural exchange through summer homestay programs!

Submit a Local Business Spotlight Request (It’s Free)- Who Deserves the Spotlight in the Local Area?

Event Showcase - Simple Treasures Mother’s Day Boutique May 6-10 & 🎉 Acton Children’s Business Fair – May 10

📰 Farmington Residents Question Partial Paving After Waterline Work

📰 Utah Plays Role in Massive DEA Drug Bust Tied to Sinaloa Cartel

💐 Local Love ❤️ For Mom: 2025 Mother’s Day Local Gift Guide 🌸

✔️ How are you liking the Bountiful Buzz? Reader’s Poll

👉  Advertising Opportunities

For a better reading experience
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⭐️ Local Business Spotlight Feature:

Opening Hearts and Homes: A Cultural Exchange Opportunity

At Bountiful Buzz, we love sharing opportunities that enrich our community's lives. Few experiences offer the blend of cultural discovery, meaningful connection, and family fun quite like hosting an international student. We’re excited to share a unique opportunity for local families to open their homes and hearts to Japanese teenagers eager for an authentic American experience—while creating memories that last a lifetime.

Building International Friendships, One Summer at a Time

Right here in our community, there's a special organization creating meaningful connections between Japanese teenagers and Utah families. Bear River International Experience (affectionately called "BRIE") opens doors to cultural exchange through summer homestay programs, and we had the pleasure of sitting down with Vice President Chris Tolman to learn more.

What Is BRIE?

BRIE facilitates three-and-a-half week homestays for Japanese teenagers who come to experience everyday American family life. Unlike typical exchange programs focused on tourism or formal education, BRIE emphasizes authentic family experiences.

"It's all about the home experience," explains Vice President Chris Tolman. "The delegates are here to be members of the family."

How It Works

  • Japanese teenagers are matched with host families who have children of similar age and gender

  • Host families span from Cache County down to Utah County

  • Program runs July 25th through August 16th, 2025

  • No need for expensive outings—everyday activities are what make the experience special

The BRIE Difference

The program carefully pairs visitors with "host siblings," allowing them to experience American teenage life through genuine peer connections. Activities can be as simple as family meals, game nights, local parks, or household chores.

Chris notes: "A lot of the kids just love to help you cook, and they bring ingredients to cook you a traditional dinner. They come with gifts for the entire family."

A Personal Connection

Chris's own family has hosted twelve Japanese teenagers over the years. What started as a simple opportunity through a homeschooling group in 2014 eventually led to helping establish BRIE as a new organization in 2022.

"The kids become like family by the end of the three-and-a-half weeks," she shares. "They're really shy at first, and then by the end, you're just in tears and hugging."

Breaking the Language Barrier

Worried about communication? Modern technology like Google Translate makes connecting much easier than in years past.

"Back when we started, we had to do charades and talk in broken English," Chris laughs. "Now you can just talk right into your phone!"

How You Can Get Involved

  • Host a Japanese teenager (must have children aged 12-18)

  • Host an adult chaperone (great option for families without teenage children)

  • All hosts must pass a background check for household members 18+

Connect With BRIE

Want to bring international friendship into your home this summer? Connect with BRIE today:

Neighbors connecting neighbors across oceans

SPOTLIGHT ALERT: Who’s Worthy? 🌟 
Nominate. Apply. Get Noticed.

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Is there a local business, nonprofit, or service that deserves a round of applause (maybe it’s yours 👀)? We’re on the hunt for standout spots that make our community shine.

🐝 Whether it’s your go-to lunch spot, a neighbor’s boutique, or your own biz — we want to hear about it!

👇 Shine the spotlight:

Let’s get the buzz going and give our local legends the spotlight they deserve! 💛🎉

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👇 THIS WEEK! 👇
May 6 - 10th

🌸 Simple Treasures Mother's Day Boutique – Farmington, UT 🌸

📍 Location: Western Sports Park (Legacy Events Center), 151 S 1100 W, Farmington, UT 84025 📅 Dates: May 6–10, 2025 Hours: • Tuesday–Friday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM • Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM 💵 Admission: $1 at the door 🎟️ Presented by: Simple Treasures Boutique, BohoDrift, and Art of the Spirit 🌐 Website: www.simpletreasuresboutique.biz📞 Contact: (801) 814-8670 | [email protected]

 A Davis County Shopping Tradition Just in Time for Mother's Day

Get ready for five full days of local charm and creative flair! The Simple Treasures Mother's Day Boutique is back at the Western Sports Park in Farmington, bigger and better than ever. With over 200 local vendors, this event is the perfect place to find thoughtful gifts, unique décor, delicious treats, and handmade treasures that celebrate the special people in your life.

From handcrafted jewelry and artisan bath and body products to custom home décor and seasonal goodies, this boutique offers something for every style and taste. Enjoy the convenience of central checkout, extended evening hours, and gift certificates available on-site.

Whether you're shopping with Mom or for her, don't miss this opportunity to support Utah’s talented makers and small businesses in a festive, family-friendly atmosphere.

🎁 Tip: Make it a day out! Bring Mom along and let her pick her favorite gift — it’s a shopping experience she’ll never forget.

🎉 Acton Children’s Business Fair – May 10

Watch over 120 young entrepreneurs (ages 5–14) launch real businesses at the 2025 Acton Children’s Business Fair on Saturday, May 10th, from 3:30–6:00 PM at Bountiful Junior High. With 50+ booths of kid-created products, this hands-on event encourages creativity, confidence, and independent learning. Parents can’t help—this is all about the kids! Come support the next generation of business leaders. Rain or shine!

👉 View the list of participating booths here.

🚛 Clearing out the clutter?
Our sponsor Junk Movers makes it easy to reclaim your space—quick, kind, and just a call away! ♻️

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Mom always said to keep the bathroom clean! Call the pros 801.499.6307 or book online at junkmovers.com.

Farmington Residents Question Partial Paving After Waterline Work

Farmington residents are expressing frustration after learning that only the trenched sections of Main Street, north of State Street, are being repaved following a city-led waterline replacement. Many had assumed the entire road would be resurfaced once the project wrapped up.

The confusion stems from the split responsibility between the City of Farmington and the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT). While the city managed the waterline work, UDOT oversees the state-owned road and is in charge of long-term resurfacing.

According to community updates, UDOT plans to return later this summer to mill and overlay the entire road. In the meantime, only the patched trench areas will be paved, and the road will reopen to traffic.

Residents remain concerned about persistent potholes and the unclear timing of the full repaving.

Oh No What GIF by Hulu Friends

Utah Plays Role in Massive DEA Drug Bust Tied to Sinaloa Cartel

Utah was one of five states involved in a record-breaking DEA operation that dismantled a major drug trafficking network linked to the Sinaloa cartel. In Layton, authorities seized \$780,000 in cash and a high-end Dodge TRX Mammoth truck valued at \$150,000.

The multi-state crackdown spanned Utah, New Mexico, Oregon, Nevada, and Arizona, resulting in 16 arrests. Agents recovered three million fentanyl pills, 72 pounds of methamphetamine, firearms, and vehicles.

Heriberto Salazar Amaya, identified as the operation's leader, faces federal drug conspiracy charges along with multiple immigration-related offenses. Officials say the bust significantly disrupted the cartel’s U.S. operations and removed millions of deadly doses from circulation.

💐 Bountiful’s Best for Mom: 2025 Mother’s Day Local Gift Guide 🌸

This weekend is all about celebrating the incredible moms, grandmas, mother figures, dog moms, and teachers who bring love and light into our lives.

We've gathered a bouquet of amazing local gift ideas, experiences, treats, and specials—all from right here in the Bountiful area.

Whether you're planning ahead or grabbing something last-minute, this is your go-to guide to shop small and gift big. 💝

🎶 West Bountiful Mother’s Day Concert – A Night of Heartfelt Music

The West Bountiful Arts Council invites you to a special Mother’s Day Concert as part of their Spring Concert Series.

Join them for a touching evening of performances celebrating moms and the irreplaceable role they play in our lives.

📅 Friday, May 9th | 🕖 7:00 PM

📍 West Bountiful City Hall (550 N 800 W)

🎟️ Bring the whole family for a beautiful evening of community and music.

Handmade dish soap + natural bristle brush sets with fresh flowers, wrapped and ready to gift.

🛍️ Real Deals – Bountiful

30% off clothing and 50% off spring florals and decor this week only!

📍 37 N Main St | Open 10–6

Shop handmade gifts, art, and jewelry created by local artists—just like Hex the Art Dog did! 🐶

📍 90 N Main St

💅 IVY NAILS – Bountiful

Pamper Mom and get rewarded:

• $50–$90 → $10 bonus

• $100–$149 → $20 bonus

• $150+ → $30 bonus

📍 3389 Orchard Dr | ivynailsbountifulut.com | 📞 801-294-0949

🎂 Nothing Bundt Cakes – West Bountiful

Sweeten her day with a Bundt cake, Bundtlet, or Bundtinis. Pre-order now!

📍 West Bountiful

🔥 Burn Boot Camp – Bountiful

2-week gift pass = strength, confidence, and endorphins! Last week to snag this feel-good gift.

🍓 Brown Sugar Bakery

Breakfast boxes, charcuterie, desserts, and floral arrangements starting at \$20. Add a balloon or custom note for a personal touch!

🚚 Delivery from Cache to SLC

🌿 Willow Specialty Florist – Bountiful

Bouquets, jewelry, plants, toffee, and more—available in-shop or to order.

📍 Bountiful | 🕘 Mon–Fri 9–6, Sat 9–2

Give the gift of space and calm. Sandy’s organizing package helps declutter and breathe again.

📞 801-941-0108 | mindfulorganizingwithsandy.com

🍞 Big Bite Breads – North Salt Lake

Fresh-baked 4, 6, or 12-roll gift boxes with Garlic Rolls, Dinner Rolls, Frozen Dough & cute Mother’s Day gift tags.

🎁 Giveaway: Win a 6-pack or 4-pack box! Just follow on Facebook and comment something you love about your mom.

🛡️ Latitude USA

Mobile Alert Device with fall detection, GPS, and no monthly fee.

🎁 Use code MOM50 to get \$50 off lifetime service

🔗 Order here

🍍 Mak Mak Thai Cuisine – Bountiful

Celebrate Mother’s Dayn early on Saturday, May 10th with bold new dishes:

• Pineapple Fried Rice

• Chicken Satay

• Moo Ping Pork Skewers

• Tom Kha Coconut Soup

💝 Wrap It Up

From spa gifts to spring rolls, flowers to fresh-baked bread, music to mindful space-making—**there’s something special for every kind of mom in this guide.**

Let’s make her feel cherished and supported—and support local businesses in the process.

Happy Mother’s Day from the Bountiful Buzz! 💐

If you know of any Farmers Markets or Food trucks Happenings!
Reply to this email and please let us know! 👍

Bountiful Farmers Market:

  • Thursdays 4:00pm - 8:00pm
    June 10 - October 16 (75 East 200 South, Bountiful)
    👉 more info

Food Truck Bbq Time GIF by ThePittsDive

Bountiful League Night

  • Tuesdays & Fridays | 5:00pm - 8:00pm | 54 East 100 South Bountiful 👉 More Info

North Salt Lake

Mondays | 5:00pm - dusk 👉 More Info

☀️ Bountiful Summertime Preview☀️

⭐️ Dr. Clint Grover of Bountiful Spinal Care!

👇 Meet Dr. Grover! 👇
🎥 Click Here for a Personal Video Message

Support Local! Share Local Deals with us!
Reply to this email and let us know!

⭐️ Ongoing Exclusive Offers only for
Bountiful Buzz Readers! 👇

⭐️ Onpoint Massage

  • May Special at OnPoint Massage! 💆‍♀️

    💆‍♀️ Enjoy $10 off  

    👉 Relax, unwind, and book your session today!
    👉 Book a Massage

🌿 Soul Elevation Health & Wellness

  • Buy one, get one ½ off (Aromatouch, tea, jewelry, bath bombs & classes)

  • Bring a friend and save $5
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🌸 Indy Clover Bountiful

  • 🐝 Get 50% OFF a future booth rental at Indy Clover Bountiful with the discount code: buzz50.
    Whether you're looking to showcase your products or discover unique finds, Indy Clover Bountiful is the perfect local hub for creativity and connection. Don't miss this amazing deal!
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🧚🏼‍♀️ Car Seat Fairy Cleaning

North Salt Lake: May 16th - 18th 👉 Details

👉 Share the happenings at your schools!
Reply to this email and let us know all the deets!

Local High Schools Event Calendars

👉 We Would Love to Feature Your Events!
Got an Event you want listed here?
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May/June Events

Saturday, May 10th

  • 10:00am | NSL Kite Festival | Tunnel Springs Park

  • 7:30pm | Divas Live in Concert | The Everest Theatre at Young Automotive Headquarters | Tickets are available through the On Pitch Performing Arts Center’s website.

Saturday, May 17th

  • 4:00 pm | Sowby’s Classic Car Show | 962 Porter Lane, West Bountiful, UT | Food Trucks, Live Music and Awards | Free Admission | Call to Register 👉 (801) 898-2624

Multi-date Events

May 14th - May 21 | 🎤 Bountiful’s Got Talent – Auditions Open!
Think you’ve got what it takes to wow a crowd? Come show off your skills at Bountiful’s Got Talent! 🌟

🎬 Audition Dates at Joy Foundation Studio (55 N. Main St.):

  • Wed, May 14 | 6:30–8:30 PM

  • Sat, May 17 | 11:00 AM–2:00 PM

  • Wed, May 21 | 6:30–8:30 PM

  • Final Audition: Wed, June 25 | 6:30–9:00 PM

🎟 Finalists will perform LIVE at Bountiful City Park on June 27 at 7 PM!

👉 Call ahead to schedule a 15-minute audition slot.
Only performers and immediate family allowed during auditions.

More info: Bountiful City's Music in the Park Facebook Page
Questions? Contact Richard (801-540-3146), Tori (801-688-1717), or the Joy Foundation (801-797-9386)

Let your talent shine, Bountiful! 🌟

June 4th-7th

  • 8:00am | Magic On The Sidewalk, Bountiful Chalk Art Festival
    👉 Learn More

Tuesday, June 10th

  • 7:00 pm | 🎭 A Night on Broadway – Ed Kenley Centennial Amphitheatre, Layton | Get ready for a magical night of Broadway favorites under the stars! 🌟 The Harmonic Winds of Utah will take the stage with iconic songs from Les Misérables, Wicked, The Lion King, The Greatest Showman, and more. 🎶  Bring a blanket, snacks, and your love of music! 🕕 Doors open at 6:00 PM | Show begins at 7:00 PM 🎟 Free and open to the public

    Bonus: Want a front-row role? They're seeking volunteer ushers — message them if you're interested!

June 13-14, 2025 | Bountiful Rotary Coats for Kids Car Show
 🚗 Classic & Custom Cars | Community Fun | Supporting Kids
Registration is now open online at bountifulrotary.com.
Text only: 801-808-5700 Email: [email protected]

June through August 2025

Horse Camp for Kids Now Taking Summer Sign-Ups

June through August 2025 - Silver Sage Equestrian | children ages 6 to 12 | learn more and secure a spot

Ongoing Events

  • ♟ Chess Night - Wednesdays | 6 – 8 pm at the Bountiful Library

    More info

  • 👨🏻‍🍳 Harmons Cooking School

  • 🔆 Reenew Wellness Center - Weekly Yoga Class: Every Wednesday at 10 am for a rejuvenating yoga session at (750 S. Main Street, Suite 101, Bountiful). It's just $5 for drop-ins, and your first class is on the house!

  • 🎗️ Mom’s Grief Support Group- 👉 For Moms of and age who have lost a child. -First Wednesday of every month, 10:30 am - 11:45 am
    -Where: Resilient Solutions inc. (1355 N. Main St. Suite 1, Bountiful)
    -Questions? Call 801-755-0193 -Register at the following email: [email protected]

  • New Perinatal Support Group for Moms in Bountiful

    Navigating pregnancy and new motherhood can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Starting Wednesday, March 19, local therapist Elena Velaochaga is launching a six-week Perinatal Mental Health Support Group in Bountiful. Designed for pregnant and postpartum moms, this group offers a supportive, judgment-free space to connect and share.

    🗓 Wednesdays | 6:00 – 7:00 PM
     💲 $20 per session or $100 for all six weeks

    For details or to register, contact Elena at [email protected] or 801-477-0127.

Business Networking

  • Every Wednesday at 11:00 am - Benchmark Business Referral Group: At Robintino’s of Bountiful, 1385 S. 500 W. Bountiful UT. Reach out if you have any questions - Call or Text (801) 694-9497

Recreation Programs:

Farmington Parks & Recreation -

South Davis Recreation -

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