In September of 2001, the entire nation was reeling from an unexplained attack on unsuspecting citizens. Anger quickly replaced surprise. Even though Logan and its neighboring communities in Cache Valley were known as quiet and peaceful, whisperings of the growing unrest seen in other parts of the country began to be heard here. Some began to look at others in our communities with concern and distrust because their speech, dress, and customs suggested a possible alliance with extremists.  Sensing the potential for conflict within our previously peaceful communities, then-Mayor Doug Thompson of Logan invited leaders from government, business, civic organizations, education, and faith communities to join in a discussion and plan a response.  Cache Community Connections (CCC) was born and given a mission to unify, educate, and inspire a community with growing diversity in background, experience, culture, religious beliefs, and aspirations.

We have interviewed some of those community leaders who were present during those initial conversations. Their insights and recollections are presented here as both a reminder of the conditions that existed at the time of CCC’s founding and as a compass directing us to future goals. Their vision is expressed in an early statement from CCC: “Cache Community Connections is composed of a group of interfaith religious and civic leaders. It extends an open-door invitation to the leaders representing all religions and denominations and civic groups in Cache Valley in the belief that spiritual leadership and unity are vital to our community’s well-being.”