The Wayne & Garfield County Insider April 11, 2024

This April, Utah Office of Tourism Celebrates 4th Annual Dark Sky Month SALT LAKE CITYThe Utah Office of Tourism celebrates Governor Spencer Cox’s fourth annual declaration of April as Dark Sky Month. Astrotourism and dark sky messaging complement the Red Emerald Strategic Plan, which aims to elevate life in Utah through responsible tourism stewardship. April in Utah has been celebrated as Dark Sky Month since 2021. Utah is home to some of the darkest skies on earth and currently leads the world in dark sky preservation with 25 accredited DarkSky International places.

“Dark sky preservation encourages overnight stays, diversifies the Utah product and expands the visitor experience,” Natalie Randall, managing director of the Utah Office Dark Sky Month Cont'd on A6

Restaurant at 80 N. Main Street. Bill Collier and Phil Fox started Cowboy’s Smokehouse Café in 1991. Then in 1994, the Gilbert

- Beginning May 8,

The April 1, 2024, Wayne County Commission meeting began with a prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance. The commission then added a closed executive meeting session to discuss ongoing litigation and approved the previous meeting minutes. Brock Jackson, Six County Community Advisor, requested the commission rate the priority of county improvement projects seeking CIB funds this year. The commission reviewed each project and ranked them as follows: (1) a proposed new Wayne County building to house emergency vehicles, (2) funds to help the Town of Loa purchase the Loa Civic Center from the county, (3) funds to improve drainage issues in Torrey to make the area less susWayne Commission Cont'd on A6

Family bought the business and ran it until 2017. Ralph and Natalie Perkins, with Courtesy Kelsey Brinkerhoff New Location Cont'd on B2

N.M. - Grand StaircaseEscalante National Monument is pleased to announce applications are now being accepted for the 2024 Artist-in-Residence program, sponsored through a partnership with the Escalante Canyons Art Festival and Glen Canyon Conservancy. Applications must be received by midnight, April 14, 2024. Together, sponsors will select one artist to live and work in and around Escalante, Utah, while serving as an ambassador for the Monument.

“By promoting a deep

I had a rude awakening at the Wayne County Commissioner’s meeting, April 1. Members of our volunteer EMT services were present. A letter was read to the commissioners about the real lives of our dedicated EMTs and the services they provide our community.

Never again will I take the sound of a siren for granted. This group of

people work hundreds of hours as volunteer EMTs giving up their holidays, unpaid time off from their jobs, family birthdays and more to answer distress calls in Wayne County all the while without proper support from the county, financial support, and even the local citizens who are clueless to what it takes to have these services provided to us. I was one of these clueless citizens until hear-

ing this letter.

Leadership is lacking due to total burn out of all of the past directors. They are responsible for not only running the organization but also working as an EMT, a heavy burden. These lovely people do not care about money for themselves. They care about us! They selflessly want to help us in time of our need.

There is a lack of statewide funds for our

small rural communities. I do not know what the answer is but when you see our EMTs out and about, please consider to honor them with a big thank you and even maybe a helping hand for whatever it is they need.

Thank You to all of our volunteer EMTs.

Laura Lasco, Bicknell

Full Moon Hikes: This change aligns our popular full moon hike program with the digital pass, private horse ride and campground reservation options already available on Recreation.gov. By moving reservations online, Bryce Canyon visitors will be able to plan their full moon experiences days in advance rather than orient their vacation plans around an uncertain outcome from a same-day, in-person lottery system.

—Jim Ireland, Bryce Canyon National Park superintendent

Beginning May 8,

Cont'd from A1

a

system, in which visitors

Recreation.

days in advance. Tickets will be released at 10 a.m. Eastern Time, and will be first-come, first-served. Individual reservations are limited to six tickets each. A $1 processing fee per reservation will cover the cost of Recreation.gov services.

“This change aligns our popular full moon hike program with the digital pass, private horse ride and campground reserva-

Visitors must be at

least eight years old to join a ranger-led full moon hike. Due to low-light conditions and loose rocks on park trails, participants are also required to wear lug-soled hiking footwear for safety. For more information on full moon dates and hike requirements, visit go.nps. gov/BryceMoon.

—Bryce Canyon National Park

to attend a 4 p.m. ticket lottery at the Visitor Center on the day of the hike. tion options already available on Recreation.gov,” said park superintendent Jim Ireland, “By moving reservations online, Bryce Canyon visitors will be able to plan their full moon experiences days in advance rather than orient their vacation plans around an uncertain outcome from a same-day, in-person lottery system.”

Courtesy National Park Service | Gaelyn Olmsted

those planning to join

ranger-led full moon hike at Bryce Canyon National Park will be able to make reservations online via

gov. This will replace the old

were required

Full Moon Hikes

In this article I would like to talk a little about doing your own estate planning.

When people ask me if they can do their own estate planning, my simple answer is “yes.” There are many wills probated that were prepared by the decedent without professional assistance. Many of these wills are submitted to the court, and the estate is administered without problem.

Additionally, there are many trusts prepared without professional assistance. Although the degree of error is often higher with the use of a trust, these can also be prepared and administered without professional assistance and without problems. However, there is also a large portion of these documents (both wills and trusts prepared without professional assistance) that do have problems. Often, when there are problems, the problems are significant.

I like to compare estate planning to having a baby. Can someone deliver a baby without a trained and experienced professional? The answer is yes. It was done that way for hundreds and thousands of years. However, is there

by

less likelihood of having serious problems if someone with more training and experience is involved in the process? Again, I believe most would agree that the answer is yes.

Like most undertakings, the more training and experience one has planning an estate, the greater likelihood that serious complications can be avoided.

In deciding whether to do your own estate planning without professional assistance, I believe the question to be asked is how much time are you willing to devote to understanding the process and how much risk are you comfortable taking regarding the disposition of your estate.

In writing this article as a professional involved in estate planning, it is not my desire to “create” work for estate planners. Improper estate planning resulting in complications generates much more work and legal fees than proper estate planning and a subsequent, smooth estate administration.

It may be that estate planning can be compared to preventive mechanics. You can pay for the tune ups and oil changes now or you can pay more for the repairs later. However, a

Red Lights

Two guys are driving down 5th Avenue in Manhattan when they come up to a red light. The guy driving slams the gas pedal and they go zooming past the red light. His friend looks at him and says, "Hey, you just went through a red light." The guy driving says, "Don't worry about it. My brother does it all the time." So they keep driving and they come to a second red light. The guy driving slams on the gas pedal and zooms past another red light. His friend is pretty mad, looks at him and says, "Hey man, you just went through another red light. What the heck are you doing?" The guy driving tells his friend, "Don't worry about it. My brother does this all the time." They come to a third red light and the guy driving slams on the gas, zooming past the red light. His friend starts screaming at him, "What the heck? You're going to get us killed! Pull over and let me out." The guy driving screams back at him, "I'm telling you: don't worry about it. My brother, he does it all the time."

So they keep driving and they come to a green light. The guy driving slams on the brakes. His friend looks at him and says, "Are you out of your mind? What the heck is wrong with you? You go flying past three red lights, almost getting us killed, and then you slam on the brakes when you have a green light?" The guy driving looks at his friend and says, "I had to stop; my brother might have been coming."

Differences

Boy: what's the difference between a tuna, a piano, and a pot of glue?

Girl: I don't know

Boy: you can tuna piano but you can't piano a tuna

Girl: what about the pot of glue?

Boy: I knew you'd get stuck there!

Antelope

significant difference is that it is not you but rather your heirs that pay.

country roads

by Lynn Griffin

Did you know there is a species of antelope capable of jumping higher then the average house due to its powerful hind legs and the fact that the average house can't jump?

Carol H. Williams

1935 - 2024

TEASDALE - Donna Carol Harward Williams, age 88, of Teasdale, passed away March 20, 2024, in Richfield, Utah.

She was born July 11, 1935, in Aurora, Utah, to Royal Thomas and Donna Pauline Bagley Harward. At the age of 2 her family moved to Loa, Utah, where her dad started the first cheese plant. When she was 6 years old, the first of her 5 younger brothers was born. She enjoyed being an older sister and loved her little brothers. At the age of 6, she was nearly killed when a ram butted her; she spent months in the hospital and had to learn to walk again. She spent her childhood working in the family store and exploring Big Rocks and surrounding areas with her friends and family.

She graduated from Wayne High School in Bicknell Class of 1953. She attended Brigham Young University (BYU), graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Home Economics Education in 1957.

Carol formally met Dwight S. Williams at a dance at the Big Apple in Torrey, Utah (although, she had known of him before). They were married and sealed on August 30, 1957, in the Salt Lake LDS Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They made their home in Teasdale, Utah, moving into the Williams' home built in 1882.

Over the years, Carol and Dwight remodeled, added, and beautified the historic home. Carol and Dwight were blessed with 5 children over the years. While children brought much happiness, there was great sorrow when their oldest child, Thomas, died from cancer at the age of 3.

In the early 1970s, Carol returned to college to pursue a master’s degree at Utah State University (USU). She went to school in Logan, Utah, while residing 300 miles away in Teasdale—far before distance technology was available. She and Dwight juggled kids, work, and school to make her advanced degree possible. After 8 years, many miles, and much hard work, she graduated with a master’s degree in nutrition and food science in 1979.

Carol taught Home Economics and other courses at Wayne High School from 1957-1969. She began a 38year career with USU Extension Services in 1969. She loved working in a job where she could teach others to sew, cook, upholster/refinish furniture, improve finances, and better their homes and lives. She enjoyed working with youth in the 4-H program. In 1991, she was honored with the E.G. Peterson Extension award and recognized at USU Commencement.

Carol was a fantastic cook. She was known for her cinnamon rolls, preserved every morsel of produce grown, and always worried that everyone was “hungry.” She grew up cooking for 5 brothers and never stopped. She could sew anything from a tailored suit to a T-shirt and never missed an opportunity to buy fabric. She was a talented pianist, serving as the ward organist for over 40 years. She consistently worked on her musical talent and was a tremendous influence on her children and grandchildren. She had a green thumb and could make the most finicky plant grow. The flowers surrounding her home were beautiful, and her garden could feed armies. In her later years blindness from macular degeneration made it difficult for her to do many of the things that brought her joy.

She was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints serving in many callings including Relief Society President, Young Women’s President, Organist, Sunday School Teacher, and many others. She studied the gospel and had a talent for explaining the scriptures. She read the scriptures daily and recently was working on reading the Old Testament, carefully studying each word with an iPad on large font and a magnifying glass.

Carol was a wonderful mother of 5 children: Thomas Dwight Williams (deceased); Gustavious Paul and Adrienne Breillatt Williams of Alpine; David Royal and Suzie Cox Williams of West Jordan; Donna Pauline Williams of Spanish Fork; Jeffrey Mark and Rachelle Rees Williams of Teasdale. She has 11 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren with 2 on the way.

She is survived by her husband of 67 years Dwight S. Williams; her 4 children; brothers Ronald Vermont Harward (Julie), Kendall Thomas Harward (Margo), and Layne Bagley Harward; sisters-in-law Colleen Harris (Carvel) and Gloria Holladay Harward (Newell).

She was preceded in death by her son Thomas Dwight Williams, her parents Royal and Donna Harward, a brother and sister-in-law Carvel Royal Harward and Marilyn Brian Harward; brother Newell Edward Harward; and sister-in-law Betty Bigelow Harward.

The family wishes to express their thanks to the staff at Stonehenge of Richfield for their patience, kindness, and tender care of our mother for these past 5 years.

Funeral services were held Friday, April 5, 2024, at 1:00 P.M. in the Torrey LDS Ward Chapel, where friends and family called for viewing Friday morning from 10:00 A.M. to 12:30 P.M. prior to the services.

Live-streaming of the services could be found at www.springerturner.com under Carol’s obituary about 15 minutes prior to starting time.

Burial was in the Teasdale Cemetery under the care of Spring Turner Funeral Home of Richfield and Salina, Utah. Online guest book at: www.springerturner.com

Many of us watched the 193rd semi-annual Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It is so nice to listen to the words of wisdom that come from the leaders of our church. It will help us in our everyday life, and it is very uplifting. There is so much to learn from these conferences; it might pay to record them so that you have time to ponder. The church is building 15 more temples around the world.

This Saturday, there will be a memorial for Dean Braxton at the Panguitch Senior Citizen Center. It will begin at 10:00 a.m., and the Lions Club will be serving breakfast, so come hungry. The American Legion will have an honor guard for him out at the cemetery. Dean didn’t have a family, and Panguitch was his adopted home. Dean was a longtime Lions Club member and served as their treasurer for many years. He also was in the military and belonged to the American Legion for many years. He delivered Meals on Wheels, and, like his other memberships, he always came early and helped with the meal prep-

aration. Dean’s volunteer work will be badly missed, as well as his friendship.

The NCAA college basketball championships came to an end after only three weeks. There were plenty of exciting games, and the world now knows who Caitlin Clark, of the Iowa Hawkeyes, is. What an exciting player she is, and she has put women’s basketball on the map, along with breaking most of the records (most points, both men's and women's, in a career; most points scored in a season; and most three-pointers made). The world wanted to see her, and in the semi against LSU, 13 million did just that. South Carolina, with a 38-0 record, won the final game against Iowa. In that game, Caitlin scored 30 points. The South Carolina coach, Dawn Staley, thanked Caitlin for making women’s basketball into a big-time sport. She is hoping to make the Olympic basketball team. This year, the courts said that student athletes could make money, and Caitlin has made a lot from advertisements.

Baseball season started last week and is going

on full steam, with little sign of rain outs. Next up will be the NBA basketball championships, and it is called the second season because it goes on so long.

I am cheering for the LeBron James team, as I have for the last twenty seasons. This time, it is the Lakers who are finally surging and have moved into eigth place, winning the last nine out of ten games. Maybe they won’t have a play-in game. I do like basketball.

Well, the economic report is out, and I saw two different workforce reports. One says there are 301,000 new jobs, and the other said 486,000; the unemployment is still below the 4% level. In the last three years, the workforce just keeps growing. Not only did the 22 million that were laid off during the last administration get their jobs back, but 16 million new jobs have been gained.

Three years ago, the stock market was at 25,000. Now, the Dow Jones is above 39,000 and will soon reach 40,000, and the other two markets are reaching new levels every day. Gold and silver prices are reaching new levels. On the down-

Moonset Pit Green Waste Disposal to Begin May 4

KAIBAB N.F. - The Kaibab National Forest, in cooperation with the communities of Parks and Sherwood Forest Estates will be re-opening Moonset Pit on May 4, 2024, for residents to dispose of green waste materials from private property. The pit will be open every other Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. until September 7, 2024. Moonset Pit is located just west of the Parks community, east of Spitz Springs on the north side of old Route 66.

Green waste may be disposed at the pit only while staff is present. They may close due to lightning.

Local area residents are encouraged to take advantage this free opportunity as they make their private property defensible against the threat of wildfire this season.

Users may discard natural woody debris such a logs, limbs, branches, brush, needles, and leaves. Stumps/roots must be clear of dirt and rocks.

side, oil is also going up, even though there is a glut of the oil in Texas.

The fact of matter is that the spring of 2020 is a time most of us would like to forget. COVID was ripping across the nation, and our economy had collapsed. 22 million Americans were terrified, being newly unemployed. The then president went back and forth between being in denial and magical thinking that the virus could be cured with bleach injections. There were mobile morgues on the streets and nurses wearing garbage bags. Well over a million Americans died from the COVID virus because no one did anything about it other than say that it would go away when summertime came. There were hospital ships that helped with the overflow at the hospitals. In Garfield County, we lost beautiful people from the virus. Yes, that was a time to forget.

Summertime will be here shortly, and we can look forward to the Olympics, which will be held in France. Wouldn’t it be fun if our Whitney Orton could make the team? As usual, Whitney is working really hard to make it to France.

This service would not be possible without the volunteers who have helped manage the site over the last 15 years and longer. For additional information or to volunteer to staff Moonset Pit, contact community coordinators Kathie Krushinksy, Sue Hamilton, or George Chambers.

—Kaibab National Forest

No bagged substances, lumber, construction material, household garbage or any other items can be deposited at the site.

Obituaries

Carol Wood

1938 - 2024

School kids and teachers are seeing an end to this year's school year. Next up is graduation. The Women’s Business Tea is and has been part of the graduation activities for the last many years. The Panguitch Quilt Walk Festival is on the calendar for the second weekend in June, along with home tours and quilt classes and shows. There is always something going on, and it is no wonder as to why Panguitch is such a great place to live and work.

Mack O

RICHFIELD / LYMAN - Theda Carol Wood passed away March 26, 2024, in Richfield, Utah.

Carol was born May 18,1938, in Lyman, Utah, the fourth of nine children born to Willis and Mary Lucille Oldroyd Wood.

Carol loved the outdoors. She grew up loving and riding horses. She would put a bridle on a horse (no saddle required) and ride off into the sunset or dawn or whatever part of the day it was. She would much rather be outside helping with the chores on the farm and caring for the animals than helping with housework.

She graduated from Wayne High School in 1955. She graduated a full year ahead of students her age. She worked at the Lakeside Resort at Fishlake, and then she attended the College of Southern Utah.

Carol married Elvan Gifford later that year, and they moved to California. Carol attended Cerritos Junior College and UCLA while living in California. She and Elvan divorced, and Carol moved back to Utah. She attended the University of Utah where she received her Bachelors of Science degree in Accounting, and she became a Certified Public Accountant.

She married Kenneth N. Brown in 1966. She and her husband started the Wood and Brown, CPA, Accounting Agency in Salt Lake City. They became parents to a daughter whom they adored. They worked side by side in their accounting practice and in raising their daughter. They later divorced.

Carol continued to do public accounting and achieved her Masters’ Degree from Utah State University. In addition to continuing her accounting work, she was also a professor of Accounting at the University of Utah.

Carol received her endowment from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the South Jordan Utah temple in March of 1992.

Survivors: Laura Dahl, daughter (Ray), St. George

Grandchildren: Kayleigh (Taylor), Sabina (Taetem) and Lizz (Steve).

Sisters: Veola Clark (Emmett, deceased) Mary Jensen (Michael)

Brothers: Stan Wood, Jess Wood (Brenda) and many nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by her parents and brothers and sisters: James, Sherry, Douglas, and Virginia Visitation will be on April 12, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Springer/Turner Funeral Home in Richfield. A graveside service will be held at the Lyman Cemetery at 12:00 p.m. on April 13, 2024. Interment under the care of the Springer Turner Funeral Home of Richfield, and Salina. Online guestbook at www.springerturner.com

Wayne Commission: Review and priority ranking of county improvement projects, a special event permit for the Wayne County Farmers' Market, approval of two new hires for the Wayne County Sheriff's Office, rural childcare issues, and concerns over the county’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) discussed.

Wayne Commission

Cont'd from A1

ceptible to flash flooding damage, (4) a Torrey Public Works fencing project, and (5) a new wood chipper for Torrey Town to better maintain tree debris. Hanksville is also considering submitting projects, but the proposals still need to be submitted, so they were not ranked.

Mary Bedingfieldsmith requested a special event permit for the Wayne County Farmers' Market. She said that a team of vendors now manages the market and that they have been working with Torrey Town to come up with a new location. This year, the market will be held on 100 North between the Torrey Post Office and Garkane Pavillion. The commission approved the permit with a waiver to use Wayne County in the event’s name for 2024 only. County Attorney Michael Winn asked that the market start making promotional material with a new name since events unaffiliated with the county government can no longer use the county’s name. The commission approved two new hires for the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office. One is fully certified, has worked in another county for eight years, and can start midApril. The other is a local man who will need to obtain training and certification.

The next item on the agenda was a discussion about rural childcare issues led by Brandi Wood. “As a grandparent, I’ve seen a major issue with childcare in our community,” she said. Currently, there are no state-certified childcare options in the county. According to Wood, some people tend out of their homes but cannot make the required upgrades to receive state certification. “We have young people, like my children, who would like to come back here and have jobs, but they don’t have childcare,” she said. She expressed concern about who will fill positions in the fire department and emergency services when the young people who used to fill these positions “can’t even have their basic needs met.” She said, “If we want young people to come back into the area, we’re going to have to find a way for them to make a living here.”

Wood proposed that the county-owned “yellow house” in Loa be turned into a childcare center. The Central Utah Counseling Center uses the building once or twice weekly. Wood suggested they move to the middle school to free up the space. County Attorney Winn said that recent legislation has set aside money for rural daycare, and Brock Jackson said he will look into funding opportunities. The Commission made no decisions but encouraged Wood and her fellow committee members to continue working on ideas for a childcare center and follow up with Jackson and Winn about potential funding.

Lastly, Josie Moosman read the Commission a letter detailing her concerns over the county’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS). Moosman is a Registered Nurse at the Wayne Community Health Center and an Advanced EMT with Wayne County EMS. Darin Bushman, Division Director over the Bureau of EMS for the Department of Public Safety for the State of Utah, also joined this conversation remotely. “It’s hard in a small town to speak up for what you feel is right because of the backlash that comes with it, but our EMS services are crumbling,” Moosman said. She went on to share a few stories about challenging cases Wayne County EMS has dealt with recently and then listed the issues she sees the county’s EMS facing currently, including how to fill the role of the recently departed director, difficulty filling the schedule, the challenges of frequent leadership turnover, the need for continuing education, and the need for more support from county officials.

“In April of 2022, EMS members were requested to sign a contract stating we would commit to 96 hours of on-call time per month and at least one weekend a month or we would be reprimanded or dismissed from EMS. We lost several valuable EMTs who had irreplaceable knowledge. These individuals, although unable to commit to the required contract, could have filled holes in the schedule to ease the burden of others,” she said. “I’m an EMT because I care about our community’s well-being, but I also care about the value that is held on emergency services,” she said. She also shared that in 2022, she was on-call for 1,178 hours and made what

equates to $2.73/hour, not including call time. “The main problem doesn’t lie in the money; it lies in the support we get,” she added. She also expressed concern that “our next generation of EMTs is not there.”

Bushman acknowledged Moosman’s concerns and said, “What you are facing is a real challenge, finally there is not a model in the State of Utah to effectively fund EMS at a leave we’d all like to see.” Commissioner Blackburn is hopeful that some changes were coming. “Maybe there can be some legislation next year that can actually help,” he said. Bushman asked Moosman to read her letter to the State Legislature next year. “It’s that story that needs to be told. We have to get our legislators to understand this problem. We are an essential service in the State of Utah, but we are not funded like an essential service...We need to work in collaboration with all of you to try and tell that story and get some legislation through next year that can help.”

Moosman agreed they need more funding, “but we also need the support,” she said. She also asked what could be done immediately to fill the schedule.

“We’ve got to come tougher and figure out the best way to make this work so we’re not burning everyone out,” said Commissioner Brian. Bushman suggested visiting the county office and meeting with involved parties to discuss solutions.

The public meeting then adjourned and went into a closed meeting to discuss litigation.

The Wayne County Commission meets the first and third Monday of every month at the Wayne County Courthouse in Loa.

Dark Sky Month:

Dark sky preservation encourages overnight stays, diversifies the Utah product and expands the visitor experience. Utah State Parks, our national parks and community partners have shown tremendous leadership and vision in preserving the night sky throughout the state.

—Natalie Randall, managing director of the Utah Office of Tourism

Dark

Sky Month

Cont'd from A1

of Tourism. “Utah State Parks, our national parks and community partners have shown tremendous leadership and vision in preserving the night sky throughout the state.”

A unique natural resource, Utah’s dark skies have proven to be a reliable revenue generator for the state, which in turn improves the quality of life for residents. The trend is expected to grow; astrotourism could lead to an estimated $5.8 billion in spending in the Colorado Plateau and support over 113,000 new jobs in the next 10 years.

"Utah is home to some of the most breathtaking areas in the world, but many people only visit them during the daytime.” Utah State Parks Director, Scott Strong said. "At our state parks, we offer dark sky programs and tours that help visitors see these areas in a unique way. This not

News from Wayne County

The Price of Groceries, Weather, Construction and New Ball Fields in Wayne Co.

by Adus F. Dorsey II

Springtime in Wayne County brings with it new beginnings. Farmers in the fields turn over the soil in preparation for new crops, cows gather in large groups contemplating summer in the high country, and kids are in school with glazed over eyes staring out the classroom windows. For the farm kids, the thought of switching from feeding cows to long days of changing sprinklers is in their dreams and in their minds.

Weather in Wayne County and the price of groceries continues to be the main topics of discussion just about everywhere two or more people gather. Then, there are the people who stand alone in the canned goods aisle at Royal's Foodtown with their eyes bugging out and grumbling to themselves about the new price on a can of beans. Rising with the daytime temperatures and the increase in traffic is the price of a gallon of gas. Certainly, the two occurrences are somehow related and expected, and, in many cases, not all that welcome. Springtime in Wayne County brings with it new beginnings. Farmers in the fields turn over the soil in preparation for new crops, cows gather in large groups contemplating summer in the high country, and kids are in school with glazed over eyes staring out the classroom windows. For the farm kids, the thought of switching from feeding cows to long days of changing sprinklers is in their dreams and in their minds.

Prior to Easter, businesses throughout the county unlocked their doors anticipating the onslaught of ATV enthusiasts, spring

breakers, tourists and visitors that spent their winter combing through travel magazines for new adventures that did not include crowded places like Moab. Make no bones about it, Wayne County has found its way onto the map. Hanksville once billed itself as the most out of the way place in the world, and now sports itself as “the” place to visit, complete with upscale dining and "out of this world" adventures.

Admittedly, some folks in Hanksville (and upper county) who moved there/ here for the solitude do not care much for the new notoriety and increased traffic, especially those that have to traverse Capitol Reef National Park daily. When large truck drivers gather in groups, there is much discussion about the "pucker factor" near the congested areas of Hickman Bridge and Grand Wash. Rumor on the street is that relief is on the way, with a proposed expanded parking area along Highway 24, but only time will tell.

Construction in Wayne County continues to take place behind every bush and on top of every plateau. New roads and driveways in the hinterlands tend to

pop up on a daily basis. Finding an available and reputable building contractor to do a job, that isn’t at least a year out, is near non-existent. They do, in fact exist, but in most cases, it is who you know and if you pay your bill on time.

If you haven’t heard or tuned into Fox News in the last week, you probably are unaware that Wayne County has some newly constructed ball fields adjacent to the rodeo grounds in Loa. The longtime baseball effort was initially put in place by semi-retired Wayne High School baseball coach Scott Ellett, and with the assistance of an anonymous donor, Wayne County now has two new fields. Wayne County is well-known for its baseball players and fans. It is rare in Wayne County that any closet does not have hoodies, sweatshirts and hats that bear the Wayne Badgers logo, and the famous baseball song “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” is generally sung right after the prayer at the dinner table. Get out to the ball field, chow down on some hot dogs and cotton candy, and have a good time with family and friends.

only improves our visitors' experience but also helps open their minds to a new and exciting activity to participate in moving forward. Seeing an area like Goblin Valley State Park during the day is a beautiful sight to behold, but experiencing it at night takes it to a whole other level.”

Further, the Red Emerald Strategic Plan focuses on the quality of visits and manages visitation consistent with local community priorities. Utah’s 25 accredited DarkSky International places include Natural Bridges National Monument, the first ever dark sky designated park in the world, all five of Utah’s Mighty 5® national parks, ten state parks, two towns and more.

Visitors and residents can go to visitutah.com/ stars for a suite of resources to learn how to experience, enjoy and protect the state's vast night skies.

—Utah

Office of Tourism

Adus F. Dorsey II

Schools and Sports

Utah Summer Games and Ari Bikes Partner on Mountain Biking Event

by Nikki Koontz | Southern Utah University

Ari Bikes, a leading bike manufacturer founded in Utah, has agreed to become the presenting sponsor of the upcoming 'Larry H. Miller Utah Summer Games Mountain Biking, presented by

event, which will take place on May 4 at Three Peaks Recreational Area in Cedar City.

CEDAR CITY - The Larry H. Miller Utah Summer Games, a department of Southern Utah University that operates Utah's official state games, has partnered with a Utahbased brand in the mountain biking industry.

Ari Bikes, a leading bike manufacturer founded in Utah, has agreed to become the presenting sponsor of the upcoming 'Larry H. Miller Utah Summer Games Mountain Biking, presented by Ari' event, which will take place on May 4 at Three Peaks Recreational Area in Cedar City. As part of the partnership, the organization will provide onsite customer engagement opportunities, rider care for participants and their bikes at the event, and will help promote the race to its extensive network of contacts.

"We are ecstatic to partner with Ari Bikes to host our first-ever mountain biking event in the Larry H. Miller Utah Summer Games," said Jon Oglesby, Executive Director of the Larry H. Miller Utah Summer Games. "Ari Bikes is committed to promoting healthy lifestyles through sports, which mirrors our organizational values. We are excited to help grow the sport of mountain biking in Southern Utah with their support."

USG and Ari Bikes logos"As advocates for recreation, education, and fostering healthy lifestyles, Ari is proud to partner with the Larry H. Miller Utah Summer Games

as they introduce mountain biking for the first time," said Jordan Washburn, CEO/Founder of Ari Bikes. "This partnership aligns with our values, and we're thrilled to contribute to an event that brings communities together. We're excited for the positive impact this collaboration will have, uniting the individuals through the spirit of sport and outdoor adventure."

Interested parties can

learn more about the 'Larry H. Miller Utah Summer Games Mountain Bike Race, presented by Ari' by visiting the website. Categories exist for riders of all abilities and ages, with out-of-state residents also being eligible to compete in the event.

The Larry H. Miller Utah Summer Games is a long-standing community engagement program of Southern Utah University.

Founded in 1986, the event had 10,566 overall participants in 2023. The goal of the department is threefold: 1) Promote educational opportunity and access at Southern Utah University; 2) provide economic development to Cedar City, Iron County, and the State of Utah; and 3) encourage healthy lifestyles and communities through sports and other competitive activities.

Snow College Awards Technical Education Scholarships

RICHFIELD - Central Utah Regional high schools recently visited Snow College for Career and Technical Education (CTE) Pathway Completers Day. Nearly 130 seniors from 10 different high schools attended the event on the Richfield Snow College campus, where they were each awarded a $500 scholarship to Snow College.

The third-annual event had such a positive response it had to be moved from its original location to accommodate the demand. Gathered in the Sevier Valley Center, 127 students were joined by parents, CTE teachers, counselors, principals, and Snow College instructors. In all, the school hosted nearly 400 individuals for the awards banquet and ceremony.

Following dinner and the awards ceremony, students were invited to meet college faculty, visit labs, and meet with industry partners in multiple program areas. In addition to the $500

scholarship, every student had the opportunity to earn a “signing bonus”—a tuition waiver given to those who met with the advisors that were on hand to get students ready to register for fall semester. In all, Snow awarded $127,000 in funding for students to continue their education at Snow College.

Programs of focus from Snow College included Agricultural Technology, Automotive Technology, Composites, Construction Technology and Management, Diesel Technology, Industrial Mechanics, Machine Tool Technology, Welding Technology, Computer Information Systems Networking and Cybersecurity, Business Digital Marketing, Certified Nursing Assistant, and Medical Assisting. Each program area has been identified as a growing industry in the Central Utah Region. These Technical Education programs now offer lower tuition rates, college credit, and short-term certificates. Industry representatives

from Sunroc, Wolverine Fuels, Jensen Air & Refrigeration, and Associated General Contractors of Utah were also on-hand to meet with students. In partnership and support of the Pathway Completer Day, Sunroc provided an additional $500 scholarship to a Diesel Mechanics Pathway participant.

Interim Vice President of Technical Education and Workforce Development Jay Olsen said, “This event is a highlight for Snow’s technical education programs. It is a pleasure to recognize these seniors for their hard work and connect them to faculty and industry partners.”

Follow-up will be done in each high school in partnership with Snow College. School counselors and teachers will work with students to identify the program they want to attend. Advisors from the Snow College Student Success office will then meet with students and register them for summer or fall classes.

—Snow College

BVHS Presents Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Apr. 18-20

Bryce Valley High School is excited to announce our 2024 musical theater production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

BRYCE - Bryce Valley High School is excited to announce our 2024 musical theater production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

This musical extravaganza retells the biblical story of Joseph and his dreams and his jealous brothers.

The play tells the story through music using Western, Calypso, 60s era go-go music and 50s era rock and roll.

Jacob and his other 11 sons and all their wives, along with Mr. and Mrs. Potiphar and the Pharoah himself are all employed into the production.

The production will be held April 18, 19 and 20, 2024

Tickets are $8 for general admission and $5 for children 11 and under and seniors over 65.

Come and celebrate what dreams really can do.

—Bryce Valley High School

Eli Beesley plays Joseph. Brandie Gates and Taylor LeFevre share the role of Narrator. As to the story, it’s all there in chapter 39 of Genesis.

Courtesy Pete Peterson

Courtesy Southern Utah University

Ari'

Utah Officials Investigate Illegal Killings of Game Animals

by Alex Gonzalez | Utah News Connection

UTAH - A Utah wildlife expert considers wild animal poaching to be a significant problem in the Beehive State, following several incidents of game animals being killed and then left to waste.

According to the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, four deer were killed in the Woodland Hills area of Utah County late last year. The heads were removed from each deer, and the carcasses were left. More recently, the division discovered a cow elk and 18 geese dead in Emery County.

Capt. Chad Bettridge, law enforcement officer for the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, said the hunters responsible for these killings could be charged with a felony.

"Three very different circumstances and potentially even more than

that," Bettridge noted. "We are not 100% sure that all the deer in Utah County were tied together, but they were in such a location and were similar in circumstance that it does kind of feel like they were maybe done by the same people, or at least related."

Bettridge encouraged anyone with information which could be useful to contact the division by using their law enforcement app. It allows you to send text messages, photos and GPS locations of any situation you think might be illegal. You can also use their 'turn in a poacher hotline,' at 800-662-3337.

Bettridge pointed out in the past five years, the number of animals killed illegally has ranged between 1,000 and 1,400. He added Utah is a big state, and as he put it, the agency does not have "an incred-

ible amount of officers" to cover the vast landscape. When they're fully staffed, there are about 50 officers in the field to investigate reports of animal killings.

"For example, the cow elk in Emery County, that cow elk was shot during a time that it could have been a legal season for cow elk," Bettridge recounted. "However, only a small amount of the meat was taken from the carcass and everything else was left to waste, which makes it illegal, even if you had a license to legally kill that elk."

Bettridge acknowledged the majority of hunters and fishermen are doing the right thing, but said there are bad actors out there. He added the division depends on the public to help by reaching out if they come across something potentially illegal and in need of a closer look.

Open House: It not only provides space for people to grow things if they either don’t have that kind of soil in their yard or don’t have the space, but it creates a place for the community to get together. It’s also a way for people with gardening skills to share with newcomers so that everyone can learn and grow together —Kate Chappell, Utah State University Extension Educator

Open House Cont'd from A1

planted fruit trees. Garden plots are still available for the 2024 growing season. The cost is $20 per plot, and rentals are open to all Wayne County residents. Irrigation water is available every third day, and gardeners are responsible for watering their plots.

Kate Chappell, Utah State University Extension Educator, is excited about the opportunities the garden is providing the community. “It not only provides space for people to grow things if they either don’t have that kind of soil in their yard or don’t have the space, but it creates a place for the community to get together,” she said. “It’s also a way for people with gardening skills to share with newcomers so that everyone can learn

and grow together.” Chappell will provide gardening tips and activities at the open house and offer monthly workshops in the garden. For example, once tomatoes start growing in the garden, she plans to do a workshop on how to get the most tomatoes out of your plant, including demonstrations on how to properly trim the plant to encourage growth. “Wayne County is special because we are so high in elevation, and our growing season is short,” she said. So she also plans to cover things gardeners can do to help extend their growing season.

One thing she hopes to offer in the future is the Utah State University Master Gardner Class. The program is designed to train a network of community volunteers who can serve as a gardening and home

horticulture resource in the community. She also hopes to collaborate with local schools and incorporate gardening and food preparation into the science curriculum.

Local Girl Scouts have already claimed two boxes in the garden. Last year, they participated in a “Grow a Row For Your Neighbor” project, where they learned how to care for a garden and then donated extra produce to the local food bank. Chappell, who also serves as a Girl Scout Leader, said, “Not only do they learn how to grow stuff, but they learn how to contribute and participate in their community.”

To reserve a garden box or learn more, attend the open house on Saturday, April 13, from 1 to 3 p.m. or call Carrie at 435491-0015.

New Location: It made economic sense to have more space, a climate controlled environment, and a larger kitchen, while maintaining an almost identical location.

—Ralph Perkins, owner of The Cowboy’s Smokehouse

New Location

Cont'd from A1

their daughter and sonin-law, Mckay and Noelle Magoon, then purchased the business. On any given night in the summer, especially weekends, as you drive by the smokehouse, you’ll notice large groups of people waiting outside for the opportunity to try the famous smoked meats and delicious family recipes. The Perkins/Magoon Family noted this as well, and as the 2023 season came to an end, they decided the restaurant needed more space.

The Perkins/Magoon Family is excited for this new chapter in the history of the Cowboy’s Smokehouse. Owner Ralph Perkins says they made the move because “It made economic sense to have more space, a climate controlled environment, and a larger kitchen, while maintaining an almost identical location.” Even better, the family now owns the building. This is a huge benefit as they are able to have control over

any repairs or renovations, and they are 100% investing in their business and their future. As a familyrun business, Perkins says, “One of us manages every aspect, and a family member is generally always in the building.”

The essence of the Cowboy’s Smokehouse is staying the same, and customers will notice the same well-loved menu and western decor. However, the new location offers a salad bar, an abundance of space, and air conditioning. The smokehouse offers a variety of foods, most famously its meats, which are slow-cooked over mesquite wood. If barbecue isn’t your favorite, they also have burritos, sandwiches, burgers, homemade soups, salads, and even gourmet cobblers for dessert. The beloved “smoker” that served this restaurant for thirty years also went through renovations of its own with the new move, and was sent off to LM Welding.

“When moving, we decided it would benefit from a facelift so it can be the showpiece it deserves

Principles of Boiling Water Canning

Callie Ward, Utah State University Extension Assistant Professor, Garfield County

Canning is not cooking—it is science. It is a process that needs to be followed exactly.

The USDA Cooperative Extension system has been providing safe canning recommendations for over 100 years. It has been known since those early days that heat at the temperature of boiling water can destroy “almost” all microorganisms. Yeast, molds, and most bacteria are easily killed at this temperature. The only microorganisms that survive are the bacteria that form protective spores, such as Clostridium botulinum.

High acid levels are used to prevent the sporeformers, especially Clostridium botulinum, from growing. The pH scale is the measurement of how acidic a food is. The lower the pH, the higher the acid content. When the pH is below 4.6, growth of sporeformers is inhibited.

Foods such as fruits, pickles, sauerkraut, jams, jellies, marmalades, and fruit butters/spreads fit into the high acid group since they have an acidity, or pH level, of 4.6 or lower. Most tomatoes and tomato products also fit into this category. However, some new varieties of tomatoes have a border-line acid level, and Cooperative Extension now recommends adding extra acid as a safety measure.

Tomato Acidification: Current recommendations for acidification of whole, crushed, or juiced tomatoes, are to add two tablespoons of bottled lemon juice or ½ teaspoon of citric acid per quart of tomatoes. For pints, use one tablespoon bottled lemon

steel. They have fitted lids and removable racks that are either perforated or shaped wire racks. The canner must be deep enough so that at least one inch of briskly boiling water will be over the tops of jars during processing. A flat bottom must be used on an electric range. Either a flat or ridged bottom may be used on a gas burner. To ensure uniform processing of all jars with an electric range, the canner should be no more than two inches wider than the burner on any side.

Selecting the Correct Processing Time

To ensure the safety of food processed by the boiling water bath method, use scientifically tested recipes to prepare the produce and adjust the processing time for altitude. Keep in mind that failing to properly lengthen processing times may result in short-term shelf-life or spoiled food due to the growth of mold, bacteria, and other microorganisms not detected by sight or smell. Food poisoning may result if the spoiled food is eaten.

Where to Find Scientifically Tested/Approved Recipes

The main sources of scientifically tested or approved recipes include:

• National Center for Home Food Preservation (NCHFP)

USDA Complete Guide to Home Canning

• Ball Blue Book, Guide to Preserving

• So Easy to Preserve (A publication from the University of Georgia Extension)

• University Extension offices and websites Steps for Successful

cooked or heated through and placed hot into hot jars, and covered with hot syrup. See tested recipes for detailed instructions for various types of produce.

3. Load filled jars, fitted with new lids, and metal screw bands, into the canner rack and use the handles to lower the rack into the water; or fill the canner, one jar at a time, with a jar lifter.

4. Add more boiling water, if needed, so the water level is at least one inch above jar tops.

5. Cover with the canner lid and turn heat to its highest position until water boils vigorously.

6. Set a timer for the number of minutes required for processing the food. (Check tested recipes for specific instructions for jams/jellies and pickles.)

7. Lower the heat setting to maintain a gentle boil throughout the process schedule

8. Add more boiling water, if needed, to keep the water level to above one inch of the jar lids.

9. When jars have been boiled for the recommended time, turn off the heat and remove the canner lid.

Boiling Water Canner Altitude Chart

to be,” Perkins stated. You’ll notice the enhanced smoker in its new location outside the restaurant.

Perkins says the first few weeks at their new location have been “exciting!” With the tourism season starting up they’ve been very busy and full of customers. He went on to say how the Perkins and Magoon Families are “... very grateful to everyone who has helped and supported us in this adventure in any way. We have been blown away by the incredible support we have received from the community.” Customers can check out the new location and the new and improved Cowboy’s Smokehouse 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, closed on Sundays. The restaurant will also be serving breakfast 7:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. For more updates, such as new specials, customers can follow The Cowboy’s Smokehouse Facebook page, “Cowboy Smokehouse/Steakhouse.”

juice or ¼ teaspoon citric acid. Four (4) tablespoons of five percent acidity vinegar per quart may be used instead of lemon juice or citric acid.

Boiling Water Canner

Most boiling water canners are made of aluminum or porcelain-covered

Courtesy Utah State University Extension

Normally, the processing times given for acid foods in recipes and canning guides are based on an altitude at or below 1,000 feet above sea level using the boiling water method. At altitudes above 1,000 feet, adjust the processing time.

Boiling Water Canning

1. Fill the canner halfway with water.

2. Preheat water to 140°F for raw-packed foods and to 180°F for hot packed foods. Raw or coldpacked foods are placed directly into hot jars and covered with hot syrup; hot packed foods are partially

GSENM AiR:

10. Using a jar lifter, remove the jars and place them on a protected surface, leaving at least oneinch spaces between the jars during cooling. Keep away from air drafts and let the jars cool at room temperature

Sources: Adapted from information in the USDA Complete Guide to Home Canning and National Center for Home Food Preservation.

By promoting a deeper connection to the natural, cultural, and historic Monument resources, the residency promotes awareness through the arts. Through our partnership with the Escalante Canyons Art Festival and Glen Canyon Conservancy, our goal is to provide a unique opportunity for one select artist to bond with the heart of the Monument and express that connection in a way that helps all Americans gain a deeper appreciation for the stewardship of public lands.—Allysia Angus, GSENM Artist-in-Residence Coordinator

GSENM AiR Cont'd from A1

“Through our partnership with the Escalante Canyons Art Festival and Glen Canyon Conservancy, our goal is to provide a unique opportunity for one select artist to bond with the heart of the Monument and express that connection in a way that helps all Americans gain a deeper appreciation for the stewardship of public lands.”

Interested artists may find more information and application materials

at https://bit.ly/3Tus6nj. Application submissions should be forwarded to Allysia Angus at aangus@ blm.gov. Notification regarding the 2024 Artist-in-

Residence selection will occur by the end of April 2024.

—Bureau

of Land Management

The 12P/Pons-Brooks comet in front of the Andomeda Galaxy. ly become an object for Southern Hemisphere observers. It will have probably dimmed a bit by the end of May and even more by the end of June.

The green comet completes an elliptical orbit around the sun every 71 years. The last time it passed by Earth was in 1954, and it has a nucleus measuring ten and a half miles wide. Observations of the comet have revealed a hidden spiral of green light surrounding its frozen heart. Like most comets, it is composed of ice, dust and rock. Comets containing diatomic carbon molecules, which are duos of carbon atoms, emit emerald light when exposed to the sun, which makes it fun to look at if you are lucky enough to find it.

sky, Jupiter is disappearing in the west, while Leo, Virgo, and the other constellations of spring climb higher into the evening sky.

12P/Pons-Brooks passes northeast of the sun in mid-April, but then will fade very rapidly and large-

And as the sun takes center stage, as it should, NASA's Parker Solar Probe makes its first-of-a-kind observation for anybody within a coronal mass ejection.

The sun diving spacecraft went through some turbulence, and its kind of a big deal to scientists.

Lately, the sun's simmering magnetic field burps colossal clouds of plasma out into the space beyond. These are called coronal mass ejections (CME). When one reaches the Earth, the result can be spectacular—auroras and disruptions of electrical grids and satellites.

Now, NASA's Parker Solar Probe has gotten a first-ever look inside a CME as it erupted from the sun. And what lies inside appears to be a treasure for solar physicists. The probe's Wide Field Imager for Parker Solar Probe instrument caught clear, turbulent eddies within the ejection.

So keep looking up, looking around, and get lost in space.

Leonard Thomas has a Bachelor of Science degree in Comprehensive Broadcasting and worked as a park ranger as a star guide at Capitol Reef National Park. He is a resident of Torrey, Utah, and is the creator of the podcast SkyWatcher Leo T, which is available to listen to on Spotify.

@SkyWatcherLeoT

GARFIELD COUNTY EXTENSION(S)

97-2203 (a24040): Mary Louise

William

97-2202 (a24039): William J. Lockhart Living Trust is/are filing an extension for 0.75 ac-ft. from groundwater (Lot 5 Black Boulder Mesa Prop) for DOMESTIC; IRRIGATION.

IRON COUNTY

CHANGE APPLICATION(S)

61-1190 (a51478): Blake L. and Delise F. Sartini Family Trust, Blake L. Sartini & Delise F. Sartini Family Trust propose(s) using 0.4453 cfs OR 40.404 ac-ft. from the Underground Water Wells (3) (West of Panguitch Lake) for DOMESTIC; IRRIGATION; OTHER: 0.508 acre-feet for evaporation on three (3) fish culture ponds.; STOCKWATERING.

WAYNE COUNTY

NEW APPLICATION(S)

95-5523 (A84165): David Arbon propose(s) using 0.015 cfs OR 0.25 ac-ft. from groundwater (Notom (8 miles SE of Fruita)) for DOMESTIC.

CHANGE APPLICATION(S)

95-388 (a51511): Bicknell Town Incorporated, Bicknell Town Incorporated propose(s) using 1.19 cfs from groundwater (Bicknell) for MUNICIPAL: In Bicknell.

Legal Notices

The Trust Lands

(SITLA) is accepting applications to lease the surface of the following

acreage

Garfield County, north of Ticaboo: Township 36 South, Range 11 East, Section 2, on the eastside of State Route 276 near mile marker 25. This site has good access, a gravel parking area, and a dirt road into the property. A lease may consist of 20 to 100 acres. The site currently has a roadside structure consisting of a wooden shed, awning, and deck area that will be removed. The site also has a 30 foot by 20-foot storage shed on a cement foundation that may be utilized by a future lessee. A former lessee left behind many unwanted items. This property is being leased as-is with a requirement that the new lessee remove all debris from the site within the first year of the lease.

Any individual wishing to submit an application to lease this property, or a portion thereof, including any of the above-described acreage, should file an application. Applications are available on trustlands.utah.gov.

SITLA will accept applications until 5:00 p.m. Friday, May 3, 2024. For more information about the parcel and about the leasing process, please contact Michael Healy by phone (801) 538-5159 or email michaelhealy@ utah.gov. Published

ACCEPTING BIDS TICABOO UTILITY IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT

Ticaboo Utility Improvement District (TUID) is accepting open bids for a 2012 Fleetwood mobile home in good condition for sale or long-term rental. Bids will be accepted thru April 30, 2024. Interested parties should call or email for pictures, appraisals if the party is interested in purchase, and current market rent schedules in the town of Ticaboo for parties interested in a long-term rental. TUID has the right to negotiate and/or refuse any bid that does not meet market value. Please call the district at (435) 3372021, or email admin@ticaboouid.com for detailed information.