The Wayne & Garfield County Insider December 5, 2024
GARFIELD CORoads, maintenance, and resources were the focus of much of the discussion at the Garfield County Commission’s November 25 meeting.
A Planning Department recommendation to amend language in the Short-Term Residence ordinance was before the Commission. Currently, the ordinance stipulates that short-term rentals must be located within one mile of an asphalt or chipsealed road. The Planning Commission was recommending clarifying that language and increasing the allowable distance to three miles. Both Public Works Director Dave Dodds and Planning Director Kaden Figgins favored keeping the one mile restriction; Commissioner David Tebbs favored maximizing landowners’ prop-
Circle Cliff Ranch Alpacas:
Diena Riddle finds a second career as an alpaca rancher and fiber producer by Erica
Walz | Insider
Circle
includes a wide variety
BICKNELL - It’s a windswept early winter afternoon, and a young couple from Salt Lake City has just arrived at Circle Cliff Ranch Alpacas in Bicknell for a ranch tour. They’ve traveled to Wayne County for a birthday weekend (hers), and here they’ll be visiting the alpaca herd and learn-
Choir, featuring the Derek and Emilie Brown Family, will perform December 14 in Panguitch at 174 N. 400 E., Panguitch, at 7:00 p.m.
PANGUITCH - The 3rd annual A Musical Christmas, a free community event, will be presented by Lex de Azevedo’s Christian Choir. Performances will be held on Friday, December 13 at 400 N 500 W., Cedar City, Utah at 7:00 p.m. and December 14 in Panguitch, Utah at 174 N. 400 E., Panguitch, Utah at 7:00 p.m. The program features Christmas musical arrangements including ones by Lex de Azevedo, a choir of volunteers
from Panguitch, Escalante, Hatch, Circleville, Bryce Canyon City, Parowan, and Cedar City and are joined by a string ensemble. A children’s choir will also present numbers at each location.
Lex de Azevedo is a former Hollywood music composer, arranger, conductor, and record producer who is most known for Saturday’s Warrior The Swan Princess, and Where the Red Fern Grows to name a A Musical Christmas Cont'd on B3
Ranch
ing anything they might like to know about the animals from ranch owner Diena Riddle.
Riddle has developed a deep well of knowledge about alpacas and her chosen trade in working with their fiber. She and her husband, Mike, have owned and operated Circle Cliffs Ranch
Unleash the Future: SC Broadband Announces 8 Gig Internet Speeds
CEDAR CITY - Southern Utah, brace yourself! The internet as we know it is about to get a major upgrade. SC Broadband, the leading provider of fiber internet is raising the bar once again, and proud to announce the arrival of the future: Offering MultiGig internet plans with jaw-dropping symmetrical speeds of up to 8 Gigabits per second (Gbps).
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Alpacas—at mile marker 63 on Highway 24—since 2015.
SALT LAKE CITYThe Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation recently celebrated the successful completion of the 2024 trail maintenance season. Statewide trail crews completed 126 projects and improved more than 500 miles of trails across Utah.
“Are they pretty lazy?” the woman asks, noting how the group of males in front of her seemed to be just loafing around.
“They’re pretty laid
Circle Cliff Ranch Cont'd on B2
The visitors, being tourists for the weekend, ask good questions, and some silly questions, and share a string of immediate commentary. Right off the bat, it’s determined that alpacas are terribly cute. “And, they’re so funny looking,” said the man.
“This year’s achievements reflect the unwavering commitment of our entire trail crew to enhancing the accessibility, safety and sustainability of our state’s renowned outdoor spaces,” said Carly Lansche, trails and planning program director for the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation. “We are deeply grateful to our dedicated crews, partners and volunteers, whose hard work ensures that Utah’s trails remain safe and accessible for everyone to enjoy.”
TORREY - On November 22, 2024, the Torrey music group, the Moony Wash Boys, gave $2,470 to the Tri-County Library in Bicknell to help pay for Storytime and
other kids’ programs. The band presented a check to librarian Amber Fullerton and assistant Natalie Hunt on the steps of the library headquarters in Bicknell.
The Moony Wash
Boys busk (play for tips) at the Wayne County Farmers’ Market each Saturday from May through
The Moony Wash "Boys" shown left to right are: Margaret Smith, Scott Smith, Rod Frazier, Jacque Keonig, Paul Smith, Amber Fullerton, Dean Keonig, Mary Bedingfieldsmith, Natalie Hunt and Dudley Elliott. Courtesy Scott Smith
Courtesy Lex de Azavedo's Christian Choir
Diena Riddle started
Cliff
Alpacas in 2015 with her husband, Mike, and has grown a business that
of yarns and alpaca fiber products.
Panguitch Senior Center Brimming with a Happy Thanksgiving
by Jaynie Connor
PANGUITCH - This past Thursday, the 16th annual Thanksgiving Dinner took place at the Panguitch Senior Center. The dinner is free to attend and started at 12:30 p.m. and went as long as there was food to serve. There was a gathering of volunteers, locals from Panguitch, Hatch and Widstoe, and even a small group of tourists traveling from Texas and Arizona.
The Senior Center was brimming with warmth and lively conversation, as individuals gathered to embrace the spirit of gratitude and community. Neighbors and newcomers shared stories and experiences, creating new friendships while deepening existing ones. Tables were adorned with autumn decorations, featuring centerpieces made with real pumpkins and gourds. The buffet table overflowed with a selection of classic Thanksgiving dishes such as turkey, mashed pota-
toes, candied yams, green bean casserole, stuffing, macaroni and cheese, Cowboy Smokehouse rolls, and much more, each lovingly crafted and served by committed volunteers. The dessert table contained homemade whipped cream and seven flavors of pie, many
Moony Wash Cont'd from A1
October. They play for fun and donate 100 percent of the money raised to an organization chosen by the group each year.
The $2470 represents the tips earned at the 2024 market and a generous contribution from Don Gomes and Annie Holt, owners of Torrey business The Old House at Center and Main. Over the past eight years, the Moony Wash Boys have raised nearly $16,000 for local organizations.
Previous donations have gone to the Wayne
being purchased from the Panguitch High School Wrestling Team Pie Fundraiser.
The dinner was put on by Mack and Pat Oetting and a group of volunteers this year including their daughters, Kelly Anderson and Shawn Caine; Lamont and Linda Olsen and their daughter, Amy; Tracy Lund and her daughter, Piper; Tera and Jay Connor and their daughter, Jaynie; and their granddaughter, Ruby; as well as others in town who graciously donated their time, kitchens, and homemade cooking.
County Food Bank, Torrey Fire Station, Teasdale Historical Society, Torrey Dark Skies, Wayne High School Future Farmers of America, and Color Country Animal Welfare. Members of the
Moonies are Rod Frazier, Dudley Elliott, Margaret Smith, Paul Smith, Jacque Koenig, Dean Koenig, Scott Smith, and Mary Bedingfieldsmith. —Moony Wash Boys
Pat Oetting thanks all those who have come to attend the 16th annual Thanksgiving Dinner.
Panguitch Senior Center ready to go for Thanksgiving Dinner.
Tera Connor
Tera Connor
New Study Recommends Utah Maintain Use of Property Taxes and More Aggressive Tiered Rates to Fund Crucial Water Projects
SALT LAKE CITY -
In relation to SB 34 (2023), the Utah Division of Water Resources has contracted with LRB Public Finance Advisors to complete a new study on water infrastructure funding. This study evaluates how property tax revenue is currently utilized in the supply, delivery and water infrastructure needs of Utah and neighboring states. It also explores best practices for the procurement and management of infrastructure funding and makes recommendations for promoting equity among water users.
“To secure Utah’s water future, we must be intentional about conservation and the investments we make in water infrastructure,” said Sen. Daniel McCay, R-Riverton.
Trail Crew Season
Cont'd from A1
Throughout the season, the statewide trail crew’s four regional teams —located in northern, central, southwest, and southeast Utah—undertook extensive trail maintenance tasks, including vegetation removal, tread repair, and clearing hazardous or downed trees.
Most of this year’s work took place on U.S. Forest Service lands, with invaluable support from volunteers who contributed 436 hours—equivalent to nearly 18 days—of labor.
2024 Trail Season Highlights and Statistics:
• Trail mileage: 500+ miles of trail maintained, including 302 miles of motorized and 105 miles of non-motorized trails.
Project breakdown:
126 projects statewide, 52% focused on motorized trails and 48% on non-motorized trails.
• Crew hours in the field: 10,000+ hours dedicated to enhancing trail conditions.
Volunteer contributions: 436 hours from community volunteers across six key projects.
Recent Regional Project Highlights:
• Northern Utah: At Reservoir Ridge,
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"This study will help Utah strategically balance smart investment and effective water conservation.”
The study quantifies the impacts of various policies and rate structures and provides foundational data sets to illuminate the costs of the current water rates. It also explores the potential financial impacts of shifting to other rate structures and removing or limiting certain tools available to water purveyors today.
“This study is a resource for policymakers and water suppliers,” said Candice Hasenyager, director of the Division of Water Resources. “We want to ensure the best available information on how we currently fund water in the state and considerations if policy changes modify it.”
crews partnered with the Cottonwood Canyons Foundation to install rock retaining walls, drains and steps, improving accessibility and incorporating ADA-compliant features.
Central Utah: Following the Little Twist Fire, the Fishlake National Forest crew collaborated on reopening a major trail essential for local recreation events and hunting access.
• Southwest Utah: Teams tackled fencing and trail projects, removing over 160 trees from the Mortenson Trail alone in partnership with the Forest Service and local BLM offices.
Southeast Utah: The Tuk Exit Trail, a new mountain biking path in the Manti-La Sal National Forest, provided the crew with hands-on trail construction experience, fostering valuable skill development.
Looking ahead to winter, trail crews will transition to supporting Utah’s Grooming Program, ensuring that snow trails remain accessible for winter recreation enthusiasts. For those interested in winter projects or seasonal roles, visit recreation.utah.gov.
—Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation
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One key finding from the study is that tiered rates have proven to be effective in curtailing excessive water use but, if utilized alone, pose risks to reliable revenue stability for operations and securing debt. It also highlights that if property taxing authority were limited entirely, monthly water rates could negatively impact low-income, non-profit and non-taxing entities. Impacts could vary and would greatly depend upon how changes are implemented. Modifying how water is funded would require prudent implementation to ensure stable financial operations for Utah’s water sector and avoid unintended consequences.
More details can be found in the Water Infrastructure Senate Bill 34 Study. For more information, contact Michael Sanchez, public information officer, at 385-226-8967 or email msanchez@utah.gov. —Utah Division of Water Resources
Wills, Trusts, and More
How is "Santa Claus" Like Estate Planning?
I love the holidays. I love the time with my family. I love the memories of Christmases long ago.
As a child growing up in Las Vegas, I can still remember those precious few “magical years” where everything about Santa Claus was as real as the pillow that could not help me sleep on Christmas Eve.
Now, fifty years later, as a parent and grandparent in Southern Utah, I want to share three ways I think “Santa Claus” is like estate planning.
First, like Santa himself, estate planning can be too good to be true. I have over 25 years of experiencing all kinds of estates – those with great planning and those with no planning. Without the slightest hesitation, those with planning are so much better than those with none. A good estate plan is essential in helping those you care about after your passing. On countless occasions I’ve seen how an out-of-date plan, incomplete plan, poor plan, or a “homemade” plan has led
by Jeffery J. McKenna
to months and even years of headache and heartache for those you care about.
Second, Santa visits the poor and rich families. His bag of toys might be more filled for families with higher incomes, but Santa’s goodness brings blessings to everyone regardless of their income or assets. Estate planning is similar. More assets can be a blessing to loved ones, however, it often comes with more problems and higher levels of complexity. Planning for estates with fewer assets often requires a simple approach. However, both large and small estates will benefit greatly from taking time to plan, with a professional, for those you care for.
Lastly, estate planning truly is a gift we give to those we care most about. My days of not being able to sleep on my pillow before Christmas morning were re-
placed with Christmas Eves filled with longing to be able to go to bed, as I spent much of the night building and preparing presents for the next day. I did it for many years for my children and now for grandchildren. This act of “passing” the love and joy of Christmas and “Santa Claus” to the next generation is truly the essence of estate planning.
These are my three ways that I believe the spirit of Santa Claus can be likened to estate planning. I will never deny the existence of Santa Claus. I never want to deny the goodness of his message and his spirit of giving. I believe good estate planning is a gift to your family that expresses these same feelings of giving and goodness.
I hope this message has helped you and, most importantly, I hope you and those you love have a joyous Christmas season.
NOW WITH RICHFIELD AND PANGUITCH OFFICES TO SERVE CLIENTS IN AROUND THE SURROUNDING COUNTIES.
Jeffery J. McKenna is a local attorney whose practice has been focused on Estate Planning for over 25 years. He is licensed and serves clients in Utah, Arizona and Nevada. He is a shareholder at the law firm of Barney, McKenna and Olmstead. If you have questions you would like addressed in these articles, please feel free to contact him at 435 628-1711 or jmckenna@barney-mckenna.com or visit the firm’s website at WWW. BARNEY-MCKENNA.COM, he would enjoy hearing from you. Additionally, you can RSVP to attend one of his FREE Estate Planning Seminars in Richfield, at 159 North Main Street, every Third Thursday.
Comics
country roads
by Lynn Griffin
tHe
Flying Blind
One day at a busy airport, the passengers on a commercial airliner are seated, waiting for the cockpit crew to show up so they can get underway. The pilot and copilot finally appear in the rear of the plane, and begin walking up to the cockpit through the centre aisle. Both appear to be blind. The pilot is using a white cane, bumping into passengers right and left as he stumbles down the aisle, and the copilot is using a guide dog. Both have their eyes covered with huge sunglasses. At first the passengers do not react; thinking that it must be some sort of practical joke. However, after a few minutes the engines start revving and the aircraft starts moving down the runway. The passengers look at each other with some uneasiness, whispering among themselves and looking desperately to the stewardesses for reassurance. Then the aircraft starts accelerating rapidly and people begin panicking. Some passengers are praying, and as the plane gets closer and closer to the end of the runway, the voices are becoming more and more hysterical. Finally, when there is less than 20 yards of runway left, there is a sudden change in the pitch of the shouts as everyone screams at once, and at the very last moment the aircraft lifts off and is airborne. Up in the cockpit, the copilot breathes a sigh of relief and turns to the pilot: “You know, one of these days the passengers aren’t going to scream, and we' re gonna get killed!
A man was leaving the hospital and, when shaking the doctor's hand in gratitude, said, "I would not insult you by offering you money, but I would like you to know that I have mentioned you in my will."
The doctor replied, "That prescription I just gave you. Could I have it back so I can make a slight adjustment?"
1. Lore people 2. Mideast ruler
Hindu princess
Jittery
Farthest from point of origin
Ground beef description
Like Lemmon and Matthau together
Merchandise
Swim's alternative
Dwyane, once of Miami Heat
Any
Obituaries
Shana Witters
PANGUITCH / LAS VEGAS - Our precious mother and grandmother, Shana Rae (Proctor) Witters, 88 passed away in her sleep November 21, 2024, at the home of her son Kirtus Veater, in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Shana was born in Junction, Utah and raised in Panguitch, Utah. The oldest daughter of Thomas and Romona Proctor. Shana married her high school sweetheart Garth Veater and had 3 children, Vickie, Richard, and Kirtus.
After becoming a widow, she married Gerald Witters who had 4 children, Caroline, Janie, Jeff, and Larry. Soon after they moved to Paige, Arizona and then to Caliente, Nevada.
Shana was a devoted wife and loving mother. A consulate homemaker, baker, sewer, and quilted blankets for her grandchildren. Loved to fish, hunt and camp with her family. Shana had a green thumb and preserved and canned food from her garden. Her favorite color was purple and loved anything with hummingbirds and had a diverse collection of bells. Shana loved her dog, Charlie.
She was a woman of faith, kind, and down to earth. Shana had a quick sense of humor. Her positive outlook and ability to make" lemons into lemonade" helped her persevere through challenges she faced being a young widow and then when her health began to decline from Parkinson’s. Somehow, she always found a way to smile. Shana was a constant bright light to her family and will be dearly missed.
A faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Shana served the youth and was a scoutmaster. Shana volunteered and became secretary for the VFW in Caliente, Nevada. She worked throughout her life to provide for her family and her knack for cooking came in handy when she became the Superintendent food service for the Caliente Youth Center.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Thomas and Romona Proctor, siblings Valerie and Rodney Pearson, Max and Pat Proctor and Kim Proctor. Daughter-in-law, Betty Witters. Her first husband, Garth Veater; second husband, Gerald Witters and 4 grandchildren, Sheila Blake, David Baines, Gary, and Jodie Boss.
She is survived by her children and their spouses, Vickie and (Mike) Blake, Richard and (Pamela) Veater and Kirtus Veater. Four stepchildren, Caroline Reese, Janie and (Ken) Kiel, Jeff Witters, Larry and (Margo) Witters; and sister-in-law Debra Proctor. She had 18 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren; 11 nieces and nephews.
Family and friends were invited to the viewing on Saturday, November 30, 2024, in the 2nd Ward, 176 North 400 East Street, Panguitch, Utah from 10:3011:30 am. Funeral services were at the church at 12:00 noon and interment immediately after in the Panguitch Cemetery.
In lieu of any donations or flowers please make donations in Shana's name to the St. Jude’s Children Hospital.
PANGUITCH - Our kind and loving, mother, grandmother, and great-great-grandmother, Wilma Kay Benner Dutton, age 82, passed away November 25, 2024, in Panguitch, Utah.
Wilma was born December 27, 1941, in Keota, Colorado, to William and Helen Elizebeth Smith Benner. She grew up in Keota, where she enjoyed spending time on her family’s farm. She graduated from Grover High School, Class of 1959. After graduation she moved to Utah.
Wilma married Kendall Melvin Dutton, and to this union were born three children: Melvin Jr., Bill, and Helen. Wilma and Kendall were later divorced.
Wilma was an active member of the Church of Jesus Chris of Latter-day Saints.
Wilma enjoyed quilting, crocheting, and embroidery.
She is survived by her children, Bill and Tommi Dutton of Springerville, Arizona, Helen and Duane Sawyer of Panguitch.
She is preceded by death by her former husband Kendall, her son Kendall Melvin Dutton Jr., her parents William and Helen Benner, a brother Gerald Benner, and a sister Iris Henderson.
Graveside services will be Friday, December 6, 2024, at 11:00 AM in the Cannonville Cemetery in Cannonville, Utah under the care of Springer Turner Funeral Home of Richfield and Salina, Utah.
Online guestbook at: www.springerturner.com
I hope you had a fine Thanksgiving dinner with your family. We had the largest crowd at our dinner. About seventy people were there, and we had some really great help. For once, we didn’t have any leftovers; we even had a group from Texas show up and were really happy for the meal. Pat and I are getting a little on the old side, and without all of the great help, this couldn’t keep going on. The dinner brings great joy to the both of us, with having so many people that come and share a meal on this day of thanks.
This week is even busier, with many things that are going on this weekend. On this Friday the 6th, there will be a retirement luncheon at the Panguitch Senior Citizen Center for Tammy Barton. Tammy has been involved in the EMT program for over thirty years. She has trained hundreds of EMTs over the years and is responsible for many lives that have been saved by that program in Garfield County. She also sees to it that the EMTs have the best equipment to work
FYI PanguItch
by Mack Oetting ~ mackoetting @gmail.com
with that is out there. Each town has the latest ambulances also. The luncheon will be from 2:00 to 4:00. I hope that all of the EMTs that served with the program over the years will stop by and wish Tammy a well-deserved retirement.
Also on the 6th - 7th, the wrestlers will be having their annual tournament at the Triple C Arena. This is a really big tournament, with anywhere from sixtenn to twenty-four teams competing. Come on out and see if the Bobcats can repeat last year’s tournament and come away as champions.
On Saturday the 7th, Santa will visit Panguitch for the 28th time. He will be at the Panguitch Social Hall at 10:00 AM and will be riding on a big red fire engine instead of a sled (no snow), and he will be carrying gifts for the kids that come. There will be goodies to eat and hot chocolate drinks. So bring your kids and grandkids and a camera for some fun shots. You can also get a Sub for Santa list while you are there. Santa needs time to shop for all of the gifts that will bring good
cheer to the kids in town.
Like many cities and towns throughout the U.S., we are going to have a lighted truck parade on the 13th - 14th. Get your trucks lit up, and maybe a tree or two. I am hoping to have Santa on one of my trucks. On Saturday from 9:00 to 2:00, there will be a Cruizin' Old 89 Christmas Car Show at the Triple C Arena. Last year, there were about forty cars and motorcycles.
President Biden was able to get three American prisoners held in China freed last week. He also okayed a weight loss drug for seniors or low income individuals in order to cut down on obesity. It will extend a lot of lives; obesity is the second cause of death behind heart problems. Before, these shots were too expensive for most people. His infrastructure bill, that he was able to get both sides of the aisles to vote for, created 74,000 projects and many jobs. You can see the results along I-15 and when you see the sixtyyear-old bridges that have been repaired and some of the highway lanes that
have been enlarged. There is also 300 billion still left in the fund, and much of it will be used on a badly needed tunnel from New Jersey to New York. He also has given the internet to all. This week, and for over the last three years, the stock market has seen new records. The Dow is up 20,000 points, from 25,000 to over 45,000; the NASDAQ is over 19,000—it was at 14,000 three years ago—and the S&P 500 is up over 6,000, up from 4,000 three years ago. Gas is down below $3.00 in many places, and big oil says that they won’t be drilling for oil any time soon. We are now the biggest exporters of oil in the world. We are now back in the graces of NATO and the United Nations, which is good for business and bad for Russia. "I believe that truth is the glue that holds government together, not only our Government, but civilization itself." —President Gerald Ford.
Mack O.
4 Ways Gratitude Can Keep Your Holidays Happy
Wilde, Utah State University Extension Assistant Professor, Health and Wellness
Sadie
by
UTAH - As the holidays approach, it’s important to prioritize your mental health and well-being. According to a 2021 American Psychiatric Association poll, 41% of adults in the United States reported increased stress during the holidays. Common worries included general finances, the ability to afford gifts, and stressful family dynamics. The holidays also tend to magnify feelings of isolation or loneliness if there is a disconnect in current romantic or family relationships compared to traditional expectations of “togetherness.” Go to usu. edu to learn about combating loneliness during the holidays.
A great way to improve your mental health during the holiday season is to incorporate gratitude into your daily life and
family traditions, not just around the holiday dinner table. Practicing gratitude, whether through meditation, journaling, verbal expressions, or acts of service, has been shown to increase satisfaction with life and is associated with fewer symptoms of anxiety and depression. Consider these four tips to increase gratitude during the holidays.
1. Keep a gratitude journal. Writing about what you are grateful for can add perspective to a hectic season. Set aside a few times a week (it doesn’t have to be daily) to write in detail about the people and things you appreciate. Go to usu. edu to learn tips on keeping an effective gratitude journal.
Ideas to get you started include family, friends, significant others, holiday
meals, Christmas lights, meaningful conversations, hot showers, music, books, your senses (hearing, smell, touch, taste), the beauties of nature, indoor plumbing, funny online videos, sleep, long weekends, feeling safe, hobbies, animals/pets, religion, baking, artwork, music, sunrises/sunsets, and learning experiences.
2. Provide acts of service. Express appreciation to your family, friends, co-
workers, pets, etc. Write a letter or choose a thoughtful, meaningful gift for a loved one. Focus on sentiment rather than value.
4. Eat mindfully. Enjoy traditional holiday foods with intention and gratitude. Limit distractions and eat more deliberately, taking time to savor your favorite seasonal treats. Go to usu.edu to learn more about mindful eating.
If incorporating these strategies into your busy holiday schedule feels overwhelming, choose just one idea to get you started. It will be well worth the effort if it helps make your holidays more peaceful.
3. Try meditation. Find a comfortable place to reflect on the things you are grateful for. If you are new to meditation, find an app for guided meditation. Bonus points for a gratitude-centered meditation guide.
Gordon S. Coleman
1929 - 2024
MONROE - Gordon Samuel Coleman, aged 94, passed away on November 21, 2024, at his home in Monroe, Utah. Born on December 1, 1929, in Teasdale, Utah, a son of Albert Jay and Frances Ellen Moosman Coleman.
Gordon dedicated much of his life to serving his country, family and community. Gordon had a distinguished career in the United States Navy, retiring as a Chief Petty Officer. His roles included Fire Technician Chief and Guided Missile Engineer. His bravery and service were recognized with a Purple Heart, awarded for wounds received in combat during the Korean War.
Beyond his military career, Gordon was deeply involved in various hobbies that reflected his wide-ranging interests. He was passionate about gardening, electronics, woodworking, reading, remodeling, and landscaping, which allowed him to express his creativity and technical skills.
He accepted Jesus Christ as his personal savior in 1988, at the First Baptist Church in Richfield.
Gordon was known for his generosity, intelligence, tenacity, determination and resilience. His loyalty, honesty, and kindness towards animals was especially noteworthy.
Gordon was a devoted and loving widower to Frances Coleman and later to Lucinda Coleman.
He was also a family man, survived by his sons, Christian S. Coleman and Kevin S. Coleman. Gordon's deceased children included Brenda Moosman and Lynn Coleman.
Gordon is preceded in death by his parents, Albert Jay Coleman and Frances Ellen Moosman. Graveside services were held Monday, November 25, 2024 at 12 Noon in the Marysvale Cemetery.
Friends may call for viewing at the Springer Turner Funeral Home in Richfield Monday morning from 10:00 to 11:00 A.M. prior to the services.
Burial with military honors accorded by the Sevier Valley American Legion Post #37 and the United States Navy Honor Guard will be in the Marysvale Cemetery under the care of the Springer Turner Funeral Home of Richfield and Salina, Utah.
Online guest book at: www.springerturner.com
Markus Solomon Nelson
ESCALANTE - Markus Solomon Nelson, born March 6, 1973, in Salt Lake City, Utah, passed away on November 27, 2024, at his home in Escalante, Utah. Surrounded by his family. He was 51 years old.
Markus moved with his family from Salt Lake City at 4 years old and grew up in Boulder, Utah on the family ranch. Staying true to the middle-child way, he spent his younger years causing a general ruckus and likely roamed every inch of the southern Utah desert and Boulder Mountain. He had a great sense of humor and was known for all the nicknames he gave people close to him.
He graduated from Escalante High School in 1991 and spent a couple years in Cedar City, Utah, where he met the love of his life, Amy. They were married on December 30, 1993, at the Wedding Rock on the Family Ranch in Boulder, Utah. Together they had 3 children. He worked At Goer Manufacturing as a Computer Numerical Control (CNC) operator, but you could never keep Markus away from home for long. He came back to Boulder and did his best to never leave again. He worked for Mark Austin Designer Builder for 25+ years. Building Custom Luxury homes and perfecting his Masonry skills. He was well known for his artistic eye and the quality of his work.
An avid fisherman, hunter, camper, and overall outdoor enthusiast, Markus was happiest in the natural landscapes that surrounded him. His love for the outdoors was a significant part of his life, and he shared this passion with his family and friends, creating lasting memories in the wild spaces he cherished (even though he likely kept his best spots a secret). He had a love for all types of music, but his favorite musician and storyteller was John Prine.
Markus deeply loved his family and would do anything for them. He leaves behind his loving wife of 31 years, Amy, and their three children: Kelsie, Kyler, and Kobe. His legacy continues through his grandson, Wallace, and a granddaughter, Wrenn, on the way. He is survived by his father Mark Nelson, Boulder, Utah; his sister, Kandice (Corry) Johnson, Boulder, Utah; brother, Phillip (Torrian) Nelson, Boulder, Utah; and their families. He was preceded in death by his mother, Kim.
His life and memory will be cherished by those who knew him as a loved son, brother, husband, father, uncle and friend.
A gathering to honor and celebrate the life of Markus will be held on Saturday, December 14th at 1:00 p.m. Escalante Showhouse, 50 W. Main, Escalante Utah.
Oscar K. Taylor
1937 - 2024
LYMAN - Our beloved family Patriarch, Oscar K. Taylor, age 87, passed away November 27, 2024, in Lindon, Utah. He was born April 19, 1937, in Lyman, Utah, a son of Floyd Pratt and Ethel Amelia Sorensen Taylor. He grew up in Lyman, where he enjoyed fishing with his siblings and cousins, playing baseball, basketball, townball, tennis and horseshoes, and hunting deer. He got his first deer when he was 14 years old by Snow Lake. He loved working on the family farm, herding cows and sheep, milking cows, and doing the ongoing work of the harvest. The law of the harvest was near and dear to his heart. He loved growing things, working hard, and seeing the positive outcomes from his efforts. He was Senior Class President at Wayne High School and graduated in 1955. He went to college in Logan and later Ephraim, and then back to Logan. He moved to Provo to finish his elementary teaching certificate. He got his bachelor’s degree from Utah State in Secondary Social Studies, Certifications of Honors in Elementary Teaching from BYU.
Oscar married Judy Sawyer in St. George, and they were later divorced. He married Marsha Lee Rosenvall in Lyman November 5, 1971.
Oscar lived in Duchesne while he taught school at Tabiona and Duchesne High School. He moved back to Lyman, where he taught elementary school and later was the principal of Wayne Middle School for the last 10 years of his career. He taught school for 39 years.
Oscar loved his farm and devoted much of his life and time to improving and caring for the land he loved. Oscar valued work and used his farm to teach his children the value of work and the law of the harvest.
He loved Lyman and he was very active in the community serving as the Lyman town mayor and on the town council for many years. He was involved in many extra curricular activities with friends such as square dancing, basketball and softball teams. He also enjoyed a good game of horseshoes.
He is an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, serving in many callings in the Lyman Ward which included a bishopric counselor and Bishop. He also served in the Loa Stake as a high counselor. Church service was a priority in his life. He was converted and committed to the restored gospel. He and Marsha served an 18-month mission to Kirtland Historic Site from 2007-2009 and served two different times at Cove Fort. He and Marsha also served in the Manti LDS Temple for twelve years. Oscar and Marsha made many wonderful friends while serving their missions and at the temple.
He loved drives on Parker Mountain where he ran his cattle as well as “up the creek” past Mill Meadows and to Johnson Reservoir and Fish Lake. He loved snow skiing in his earlier years and also boating and water skiing trips to Lake Powell, which was a family favorite and instilled a love for boating in all his children.
The deer hunt was always an important family tradition of camping and getting together with family. He loved fishing, especially taking his float tube on Neff’s Reservoir—a family favorite fishing hole. Dad always said the most important thing they grew on the farm was his family. Dad kept a journal his whole married life, which has been a treasure to his family for years, and will continue to mean more and more. He was the best at coming up with random competitions to keep his large family busy.
Oscar is survived by his loving wife, Marsha Taylor of Lyman; his children: Brant and Jolynn Taylor of Magna; Michelle and Alex Bell of Logan; Kirt and Meriann Rippstein of Glenwood; Teri and Dave Christensen of Lyman; Ryan and Desirae Taylor of Stansbury Park; Kristy and Will Ferguson of Pleasant Grove; Kami Elison of Vernal; Weston and Sarah Taylor of Laketown; Kali and Spencer White of Lehi; 33 grandchildren; and 31 Great-Grandchildren.
He is preceded in death by a son, Travis O. Taylor; and an infant son; his parents, Floyd and Ethel Taylor; and his siblings: Gail Shannon, Erma Gardner, Floyd LaMon Taylor, Clip J. Taylor, Ned F. Taylor, Lyle E. Taylor, Annie Leora Taylor and Chad Taylor.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at 1:00 P.M. in the Lyman LDS Ward Chapel, where friends may call for viewing Friday evening from 6 to 8 P.M. or Saturday morning from 10:00 to 12:30 prior to the services.
Live streaming of the services can be found at: www.springerturner.com under Oscar’s obituary about 15 minutes prior to starting time.
Burial will be in the Lyman Cemetery under the care of the Springer Turner Funeral Home of Richfield and Salina, Utah.
Online guest book at: www.springerturner.com
Schools and Sports
Helen Foster Snow Cultural Center Celebrates Its Second Anniversary
sary with a cultural celebration on Nov. 12.
CEDAR CITY -
Southern Utah University’s Helen Foster Snow Cultural Center (HFSCC)
celebrated its second anniversary with a cultural celebration on Nov. 12.
The event was attended by members of SUU’s student body, faculty, and larger campus community. The celebration included videos about Helen Foster Snow, traditional music, and a presentation by Keynote Speaker Dr. Krista Van Fleit, associate professor of Chinese Literature and Language at the University of South Carolina.
The Helen Foster Snow Cultural Center was founded in 2022 as a result of a bill passed
in the Utah State Legislature to establish a center in southern Utah to support the study of Mandarin Chinese and provide cultural experiences for students and community members. Dr. Wen Ouyang serves as the executive director of the Center.
“One of the motivating factors for the Utah Legislature starting the HFSCC is because Utah citizens value acquiring a second language,” said Associate Vice President of International Affairs Stephen Allen. “In addition, having a citizenry fluent in a variety of languages helps with national security, commerce and trade, enhanced employment, and cultural competency.”
The Center is named after Cedar City native Helen Foster Snow, a Nobel Peace Prize-nominated journalist who paved the way for US-China relations in the mid-twentieth century. Though Snow died in 1997, her legacy lives on through the Cultural Center and the various programs it sponsors including Mandarin Chinese classes at SUU and both of Cedar City’s high schools.
“To carry on Helen's spirit and legacy, the Center has provided opportunities for students, faculty, and community to engage with Asia,” said Dr. Wen Ouyang. “This has cultivated diverse and cultural educational experiences, and exposed SUU's unique qualities to our international partners in China, India, Korea, Vietnam, and Japan.”
The second-anniversary celebration, hosted in the Great Hall of the Hunter Alumni Center, allowed faculty, staff, students, and community members to celebrate Helen’s legacy and the Center’s accom-
PHS Sports Sidelines
by Mack Oetting
plishments over the past two years. The keynote speaker for the celebration was the University of South Carolina's Dr. Krista Van Fleit who spoke on film exchange and cultural production between China and India in the years following China’s cultural revolution.
The celebration also included video presentations on the life of Helen Foster Snow, traditional Chinese and Indian music performances by SUU students, and updates on the extensive work the HFSCC has done to bring Mandarin Chinese programs into Cedar City middle and high schools.
A full recording of the celebration can be found on SUULive’s Youtube page. Those wishing to learn more can visit the center located in the Office of International Affairs at SUU. For further questions about the Helen Foster Snow Cultural Cultural Center contact Dr. Wen Ouyang at ouyangw@suu. edu.
—Southern Utah University
Both the boys and girls basketball teams had games with Enterprise; the Lady Cats were here in Panguitch, and the boys were at Enterprise. Both teams came away with victories. The Lady Cats beat up on Enterprise in the first half and led by 32 to 18. In the second, it was a different story, and in the 4th quarter, Enterprise caught the Cats at 45. The Cats got back their shot at the end and scored seven straight points to win 52-45. The ladies have a game down in Valley on the 5th, and the next night, the 6th, will be here with South Sevier. Next week on the 10th, Green River will be here, with the games starting at 3:00. On the 11th, they will be at Milford, and on the 13th, they
will be out at San Juan. The boys team had a really easy time with their two games at Millard and Enterprise, or maybe they are just that good because both of these teams are 2A. Last Tuesday, Parowan came to town, and they may have been a better test for the Cats. The next night, on the 6th, they will be at Grand County, and on the 7th, they will be at Emery on the 7th—both Grand and Emery are 2A teams. Both teams are looking really good with outside shooters and are going to be tough. The tough guys have their tournament this weekend. Their season is short, but they make up with many tournaments. On the 10th, they are at Parowan, the 11th is Piute, and from the 13th-14th, they have the Parowan JV Tournament. On the same days, the Varsity team will be at the Desert Hills Tournament.
Expect to be really entertained this winter with high school sports.
University of Utah Summer '24 Dean's List
SALT LAKE CITY -
The University of Utah congratulates more than 2,800 students who were named to the Summer 2024 Dean's List. To qualify, the following students earned a GPA of 3.5 or higher in at least 12 graded credit hours during any one term.
Katharine Mccarty of Boulder • Erika Wynn of Teasdale
The University of Utah, located in Salt Lake City in the foothills of the Wasatch Mountains, is the flagship institution of higher learning in Utah. Founded in 1850, it serves over 32,000 students from across the U.S. and the world. With over 100 major subjects at the undergraduate level and more than 90 major fields of study at the graduate level, including
law and medicine, the university prepares students to live and compete in the global workplace. In 2019, the university was selected as a new member of the Association of American Universities—an invitationonly, prestigious group of 65 leading research institutions marked by excellence in academic expertise and research impact, student success, and securing resources in support of core missions. Known for its proximity to seven worldclass ski resorts within forty minutes of campus, the U encourages an active, holistic lifestyle, innovation and collaborative thinking to engage students, faculty, and business leaders.
—University of Utah
Public Library
Panguitch
Courtesy Southern Utah University
Southern Utah University’s Helen Foster Snow Cultural Center (HFSCC) celebrated its second anniver-
Circle Cliff Ranch: I don’t know what it is, maybe they are my spirit animal. They just grabbed me, their cute little faces.
back,” said Riddle. Too, they’ve been handled daily since the day they were born and are accustomed to strangers through the 500 or so visitors that are welcomed to the ranch each year. Riddle answered perhaps the most frequently asked question: “What’s the difference between alpacas and llamas?”
“Alpacas are good for nothing except for looking cute, their calm demeanor, and their fleece,” replied Riddle. “Llamas you can use for pack animals. They are two to three hundred pounds heavier, and you would not use their fleece for anything except outerwear, like jackets.” In addition, alpacas have short, blunt faces, typically with short ears, and are gentle and shy. Llamas have longer faces and ears, and are confident animals.
The couple get to
mingle with the pack of males before heading to the next pen to get acquainted with the females. Riddle announces a favorite visitor activity: feeding carrots to alpacas mouth-to-mouth.
“You get the longest carrot you can find, and put it in our mouth,” said Riddle. “I can’t wait!” The woman said.
“I don’t even know what I expected from this visit, but this is even better,” said the man.
Riddle had a career in education for 35 years and was a full-time school principal at Hayden Peak Elementary in West Jordan when she got the alpaca bug.
“I took a knitting class at a yarn shop in Gardner Village in West Jordan. I started knitting in 2013 and had crocheted since I was five—my grandmother taught me.”
Mike bought Diena some alpaca yarn from the same shop. And then, being curious about the animals, they
went to visit some alpaca ranches.
“I don’t know what it is, maybe they are my spirit animal. They just grabbed me, their cute little faces.” said Riddle. She recalled that as they drove away from the ranch, “My heart just sank. Mike said I had tears streaming down my face,” she was so sad to leave the animals. “So I emailed this one particular ranch, Carol Frazer in Heber City, and we set up a time to come up with a couple of grandkids."
From Carol, they purchased five alpacas, and that started the ball rolling. They decided that they needed to retire, and sell their house, and they needed a new place to live.
The Riddles already owned a small home in Bicknell for use on summer weekends. It wasn’t appropriate for alpaca ranching— but it did set their sights on Wayne County. Diena gave notice to her school superintendent. “I told her I was
bies are born with just four bottom teeth, and they never develop top teeth, so they cannot bite. They have toenails, not hooves, and can’t kick easily. For their protection, the Riddles installed high fencing and keep two Great Pyrenees-type guardian dogs. She says that while coyotes don’t pose a threat, mountain lions do, but with the guard dogs, she’s never had a problem. The alpacas eat local hay (“they’re fussy, they prefer second cutting”), and alpaca pellets, which are carried by Brian Farm in Loa.
Each May, Riddle’s alpacas get shorn for their fleece. “Shearie McShearie’s shearing service comes down from Oregon. He is very gentle and very kind.” He takes care of their teeth (with a Dremel tool) and nails (with clippers) as well.”
Depending on the size of the alpaca, they’ll produce somewhere between six and fourteen pounds of fleece.
“The ‘saddle’ area on their backs, that’s the nicest, softest—I call that their prime, number one fleece. The next best is their necks and their little hiney area, and that will still be wonderful and soft next to the skin. Their tummy area becomes dryer balls and rug yarn.”
retiring, and she thought I was having a nervous breakdown, because nobody in their right mind would move to Wayne County to raise alpacas.”
From the outset, Mike was all-in. “In 2015, he bought me this little alpaca figurine, and an alpaca halter for Mother’s Day.” Then they found a house for sale with plenty of room for alpacas—the house at mile marker 63. “I thought it was perfect. Mike thought it was perfect,” said Riddle. They closed in July of 2015. They agreed at the time to build a herd of ten alpacas. They now have thirty-one.
Alpacas are a species of camelid mammals, originally from the Andes Mountains in South America, and were domesticated thousands of years ago. While their much tougher llama cousins may be used as livestock guardians in place of dogs, alpacas are prey animals with few defenses. Ba-
During shearing, the first section of fleece shorn from each animal is rolled out, gathered on plastic, rolled up carefully (called “noodling”) and put in a bag, then the second area collected in a separate bag, then the third area, then each of those are put into a big bag, and weighed. Diena says her bags and labeling are prepared ahead of time—she’ll spend weeks in preparation before the shearer arrives.
After shearing, each animal’s fleece is cleaned by hand on a carding table, and then sent to Crooked Fence Fiber Mill in Santaquin. The mill will clean the fleece and take it all the way through the spinning process.
“With thirty-one alpacas, I can’t spin all that. I have her do my rug yarn, and then I spin the rest. It can take hours and hours to make one skein.” All of Riddle’s yarns and other alpaca products are direct-marketed through her own shop at Circle Cliff Ranch, through holiday markets and farmers markets, and through other local retailers, such as The Old House on Center and Main in Torrey, and at Julia’s Shoppe in Richfield.
“I dye the yarn. And I can take fleece from one animal and another animal to blend it together to get a desired color, like a gray from white and black. I choose animals to breed to improve the next generation, I bring science into my breeding. I take a sample of their fleeces from their side every other year and send to New Zealand to be analyzed. It goes into a big database, and I take the information from that and put it into a computer and see what the expected offspring is going to be. It can be as complicated or as not complicated as you can get,” said Riddle. In addition to skeins of yarn, Riddle makes dryer balls, headbands, hats and scarves. “I weave the scarves. I now make felted items—felted blankets, felted goat milk soap—it’s like a loofa bar around goat milk soap. You can use it as soap or scent drawers with it.” Riddle rounds out her product line with alpaca products from other manufacturers: socks, gloves, “cute little alpaca teddy bears, anything that’s alpaca related.” Plus t-shirts and shopping bags with the Circle Cliffs Alpacas logo. Riddle credits husband Mike with being her support and number one fan. “Mike cooks food for shearing days, when I’m out of town he keeps everyone alive. If I have a huge crowd of visitors, he’ll come out to help.” She also credits Snow College’s Small Business Development Center with matching grants and classes that have taught her all the ropes of running her own business, from tax integration, handling stress, to marketing. Considering herself a lifelong learner, she continues to explore new ideas and products. “I take classes on Zoom and in-person. So I learn all the time.”
“I’m the kind of person where I don’t want to have regrets that I wish I had done something. And I have no regrets, it’s been a great decision,” said Riddle.
Circle Cliff Ranch Alpacas can be found online at https://www.circlecliffranchalpacas.com/ and on Facebook and Instagram. Retail products are sold at the ranch store and at The Old House at Center and Main in Torrey. Riddle will have a booth at the Boulder Holiday Market on Saturday, December 14.
—Diena Riddle
Circle Cliff Ranch Cont'd from A1
Diena Riddle with Circle Cliff Ranch Alpacas sells her alpaca-based products through her own ranch store, at holiday and farmers markets, and at The Old House at Center and Main in Torrey. She'll have a booth at the Boulder Holiday Market on Saturday, December 14, 2024
Insider
Ranch visitors get to spend time mingling with the separate male and female alpaca herds.
The Circle Cliff Ranch Ranch store offers a wide variety of alpaca fiber-based products, and items for the alpaca enthusiast.
Insider
Insider
Garfield Commission: Roads, maintenance, and resources were the focus of much of the discussion at the Garfield County Commission’s November 25 meeting. A Planning Department recommendation to amend language in the Short-Term Residence ordinance, approval of a zone change for Guinea Plig LLC, from Agricultural to Commercial, and designs for the Sheriff Department’s Christmas cards discussed. Tammy Barton, head of the county’s EMS Department is retiring after 25 years of service. An open house in her honor is being held Dec. 6. 1 - 3 p.m., at the Panguitch Senior Center.
Garfield Commission Cont'd from A1
erty rights by accepting the three mile amendment.
Dodds said "a lot of our roads are old, twotracks, never designed [for all weather travel]." He said most residents who live here know what to expect with various weather conditions, and generally have adequate equipment of their own. However, visitors, including shortterm renters, don’t understand how heavy snow or rainfall might render a road impassable or may assume access, regardless.
Commissioner Leland Pollock also favored the one-mile restriction, saying the county was likely to be legally threatened if someone needs emergency medical services and the road to the residence is inaccessible. The ordinance currently includes a $1000 fine if county road service is required for properties in violation of the onemile restriction.
Commissioner Pollock said there’s a limit on available road funding. In addition, “every time a resident needs road assistance, Dodds needs to divert the road crew from whatever they’re working on and basically build those people a road.” Dodds said even some of our best roads are going to accumulate water if we have a wet season. He noted a letter was sent
A Musical Christmas
Cont'd from A1 few. Lex was part of the famous King Family Singers that had a weekly television show back in the 60s and 70s.
Also featured in the program will be special guests, the Derek and Emilie Brown Family, consisting of a family of amazing musical artists. Derek and Emilie Brown are the parents of four talented young people. Emilie is the daughter of composer Lex de Azevedo. She and Derek were married while performing with the BYU Young Ambassadors, where Derek
to all county residents last year warning them that the county couldn’t guarantee access, given weather conditions.
Planning Department
Director Kaden Figgins said the Planning Commission had unanimously recommended changing “one mile” to “three miles” and adding clarifying language as to how it was to be measured: “No STR shall be occupied or permitted if the distance traveled by vehicle to the STR property is more than three miles off any asphalt or chipsealed road.”
Commissioner Pollock continued to object, saying the liability situation was different with the county approving an STR conditional use permit versus tourists simply traveling on “RS-2477 right of way” roads. Regardless, any language change at this point affects only future applications, not those currently in effect. It was suggested that liability language be added, to which Figgins offered the following, as Section 10, #1: “Garfield County shall not be held liable for any damages that occur if an individual becomes stuck, stranded, or disabled on a county road while attempting to access a STR. It’s the responsibility of the renter and guest to ensure safe access to the property.”
Commissioners Jerry Taylor and Tebbs voted aye to the amendments; Commissioner Pollock voted nay.
Other agenda items:
was in the band and Emilie was a singer.
The Brown children began singing as soon as they could talk. Alex and Zachary are students at Brigham Young University. For many years, Alex was the “beatboxer” for BYU’s a cappella singing group Vocal Point. Zachary, an accomplished violinist, currently sings with BYU Men’s Chorus. Together with their sister Eliza, they have all performed at the renowned Hale Center Theater and have been featured on television shows. The youngest, Spencer, is in middle school and plays the piano and cello.
Tammy Barton, head of the county’s EMS Department is retiring after 25 years of service. An open house in her honor is being held Dec. 6. 13 p.m., at the Panguitch Senior Center.
• Zone change approved for Guinea Plig LLC, from Agricultural to Commercial. It was suggested that the applicant request annexation into Cannonville, given that they are the only property south of Cannonville that is outside town limits.
Business license approved for Winding River Ranch LLC.
• Commissioners picked three designs for the Sheriff Department’s Christmas cards. The department held a design contest among elementary students in Panguitch, Bryce Valley, and Escalante/Boulder. Winners will receive a stocking and some toys. Commissioners went into executive session to discuss possible litigation.
The Garfield County Commission meets on the second and fourth Monday of each month starting at 10 a.m. All meetings are held in the County Courthouse in Panguitch. There is no set up for electronic participation, but all meeting recordings are uploaded to the Utah Public Meetings Notice board, https://www. utah.gov/pmn/. —Insider
Derek is an accomplished pianist and won a grand piano when he was only thirteen years old. Last month, he was elected to be Utah’s next Attorney General. Emilie is a voice actor, lending her speaking voice to television and radio commercials across the country. Partnering with family members, she produced the children’s musical video series Signing Time. The Brown family feels that music is the language of love and a vehicle for service. They feel blessed to carry on the tradition of music they inherited and share it with all.
—Lex de Azevedo's Christian Choir
News from Wayne County Destination Kansas / Thanksgiving
by Adus F. Dorsey II
WAYNE CO. - Kansas is known for tornados, Dorothy, Toto, and the Wizard of Oz. When you live in Utah, paradise to be exact, and you say you are going to Kansas, people in Utah tend to draw a blank. You might as well tell them you are going to some distant galaxy in the universe that they have never heard of, or much less ever thought to go visit.
I mean Kansas, to a Utahn, is like two whole states away, over the Rockies, and you must drive miles and miles through level land to even get there. Well, it is Thanksgiving time, and it is what you do when your family lives there.
Crossing the state line into Colorado can be traumatic enough for someone claiming Utah as home, but the thought of putting 1,100 miles between Wayne County and you is downright daunting; all sorts of things might happen, and life in general might just go on without you.
So, what happened after the Colorado border disappeared from the rear-view mirror; a cloud of Canadian Geese passed overhead and pelted my windshield with poop. Welcome to colorful Colorado. (Luckily M&D had topped off my windshield wiper fluid, or I might have found myself in deep doo doo.)
Grand Junction wasn’t much to talk about, gas and go, so I proceeded on toward Glenwood Springs and into the canyon where the pucker factor was at about a ten for forty miles. The canyon was narrow, with intermittent sheets of ice crossing the road where you least expected it or at scenic Colorado River views when your attention was diverted to the flowing river, and not on the road. Over the hills and through the tunnels, and then you pop out the other side.
Why eastern Colorado isn’t considered part of Kansas is beyond me; it is as flat as a board just as soon as you drop down into Denver.
Paola, Kansas is rural, with corn, wheat and anonymous grain fields further that you can see.
Paola, Kansas, has a population of 5,742, 1,083.7 people per square mile, the median age is 44 year of age, 55% female, $69,420 ±$4,737 is the
median household income, transportation to work is twenty-four minutes, there are 2,823 households with 2.8 persons per house, the median household value is $172,000.00, and 89% have a high school or higher education.
In contrast, in 2022, Wayne County, Utah, had a population of 2.53k people, with a median age of 43 and a median household income of $64,870. Between 2021 and 2022, the population of Wayne County, Utah, grew from 2,500 to 2,532, a 1.28% increase, and its median household income grew from $55,605 to $64,870, a 16.7% increase. 96.6% of the residents in Wayne County are U.S. citizens. In 2022, the median property value in Wayne County was $316,200, and the homeownership rate was 78.1%. Most people in Wayne County drove alone to work, and the average commute time was 25.6 minutes. (source: https:// censusreporter.org/profiles)
Paola, Kansas, located in the center of Miami County, is the county seat and the largest city in the county.
According to Mona, the front desk monitor at the Miami County Historical Society / Museum, the Osage Indians occupied the area now known as Paola, Kansas, long before the real estate agents showed up with for sale signs for the Louisiana Purchase. Of the Indian nations living north of the Arkansas River and west of the Mississippi River, the Osage were best known to the French during the early years of their occupancy of Louisiana. Claiming lands extending east even to the banks of the Mississippi River, and maintaining friendly relations with the Illinois tribe, who dwelt on the opposite shore, the Osage were brought in frequent contact with the French adventurers of Kaskaskia, Natchez and New Orleans. By the 1840s, white settlers began to move to the area, and several missionaries lived in and near “Peoria Village.” In 1852, an Italian Priest named Paul D. Ponziglione arrived and renamed the village Paola after a small town on the coast of Calabria, Italy.
As was true in most new settlements of the time, religion was important in the community, and the Meth-
odist Episcopal church was placed upon the Stanton circuit in 1858, where it remained until 1864, when a local church organization was organized. The Baptist church was established in 1860; the Catholic church may be regarded as the continuation of the Catholic mission established among the New York Indians in 1845, but no church was erected until 1860.
During the Civil War, a military post was established on the west side of Bull Creek, just west of Paola. The new town was barely spared an attack by Confederate guerrilla William Quantrill on August 21, 1863, as he retreated after the Lawrence, Kansas Massacre. Paola was also just ten miles west of the retreat of Confederate Major General Sterling Price’s force on October 24, 1864. The nearby military post was deactivated in August or September 1865.
During the war, pressure to move the Native American tribes increased, and they were moved to Oklahoma by 1868. Some individuals stayed and became citizens of the United States; however, their leader Baptiste Peoria left Paola with the tribe. From the late 1860s and through the 1870s, Paola grew and progressed, building its first school, jail, and bank. Further back in Kansas history even before man found fire, eastern Kansas developed multiple rock formations, including the Cherokee, Pleasanton, Chattanooga, and Bourbon formations (a far cry from rocks remotely found in Utah).
Today, Paola, Kansas, boasts a robust and growing population of forty somethings with young families. The townsite was laid out in 1855 by Indian leader Baptiste Peoria who donated the land, and is the same as it has always been, mandated by proclamation. Family farms stretch out beyond the horizon in every direction, all with barns much bigger than houses.
Folks seem friendly and curious enough when they notice an out of state plate and do not ask a lot of questions.
But true to form, and in Dorothy’s own words, “There is no place like home,” wherever home just might be.
Adus Dorsey
Rock Creek School, a one-room schoolhouse in the northwest corner of Miami County, Kansas.
Utah Cutthroat Slam Reaches Record Number of Yearly
Completions in 2024 New Mediallion Released
Courtesy
The Utah Cutthroat Slam saw a record number of completions in 2024 and is releasing the newest medallion for anglers who complete the fishing challenge. To successfully complete the slam and receive a medallion, anglers must catch Utah’s four native subspecies of cutthroat trout in their native ranges.
SALT LAKE CITY -
The Utah Cutthroat Slam saw a record number of completions in 2024 and is releasing the newest medallion for anglers who complete the fishing challenge.
The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources and Utah Trout Unlimited launched the slam in 2016 as a challenge for anglers and as a way to raise funds for cutthroat trout conservation and outreach. To successfully complete the slam and receive a medallion, anglers must catch Utah’s four native subspecies of cutthroat trout in their native ranges.
The original medallion was awarded to the first 1,000 anglers to complete the slam, a milestone that was reached in September 2022. In 2022, the partners of the slam announced a new series of four medallions—one for each of the cutthroat trout subspecies—that anglers could earn when completing the slam.
“This has been another record year for the Utah Cutthroat Slam with the release of the third new medallion and a record 328 completions to date,” Utah Division of Wildlife Resources Sportfish Coordinator Trina Hedrick said. “This year, there was also a record $14,920 in revenue generated from the slam. We are grateful to the many anglers who participate and help fund cutthroat trout restoration and outreach in Utah through the Utah Cutthroat Slam. We also appreciate our partners Utah Trout Unlimited, and others involved in these efforts.”
The first species-specific medallion displayed a Colorado River cutthroat trout in full color,
designed specifically for the Utah Cutthroat Slam by artist Tim Johnson. That medallion was awarded for the next 250 completions, which only took a mere 14 months to reach. The second medallion in the series highlighted the Yellowstone cutthroat trout, again featuring original art by Johnson. The Yellowstone medallion was awarded for 10 months until 1,500 slam completions were reached earlier this month.
The newest medallion, also designed by Johnson, has been released and features the Bear River cutthroat trout. It will be awarded until 1,750 slams are completed (so for the next 250 slam completions).
Since 2016, the Utah Cutthroat Slam has: Garnered over 5,700 registered anglers, including anglers from 48 U.S. states and one angler from outside the U.S.
Been completed 1,632 times.
• Raised more than $106,000 for native cutthroat trout conservation work and outreach that benefits all four subspecies.
“Anglers really love having the subspecies-specific medallions, which is likely the reason we keep seeing the record numbers of annual completions broken. The response has been amazing and beyond our wildest expectations,” said Brett Prettyman, Utah Cutthroat Slam Program Director for Utah Trout Unlimited. “
Anyone interested in participating in the Utah Cutthroat Slam can learn more and register on the website.
—Utah Division of Wildlife Resources
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
WAYNE COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
Please take notice that the Wayne County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider the following:
SUBJECT: Proposal to Adopt SB174 Subdivision Approval Process
DATE: Wednesday, December 11, 2024
TIME: 7:00 PM
LOCATION: Wayne County Courthouse, 18 South Main Street, Loa, UT 84747
The Planning Commission is considering adoption of SB174 Subdivision Approval Process/Local Land Use Development Revisions for Wayne County. This initial public hearing is to inform the public of the County’s desire to adopt SB174, gather input from the public, and discuss the next steps toward adoption.
Published in The Wayne and Garfield County Insider on NOVEMBER 28 and DECEMBER 5, 2024
NOTICE TO WATER USERS
The applications below were filed with the Division of Water Rights in Wayne County. These are informal proceedings per Rule 655-6-2. Protests concerning an application must be legibly written or typed, contain the name and mailing address of the protesting party, STATE THE APPLICATION NUMBER PROTESTED, CITE REASONS FOR THE PROTEST, and REQUEST A HEARING, if desired. Also, A $15 FEE MUST BE INCLUDED FOR EACH APPLICATION PROTESTED. Protests must be filed with the Division of Water Rights on or before Jan. 1, 2025 either electronically using the Division`s on-line Protest of Application form, by hand delivery to a Division office, or by mail at PO Box 146300, Salt Lake City, UT 84114-6300. Please visit waterrights.utah.gov or call (801)538-7240 for additional information.
GARFIELD COUNTY
CHANGE APPLICATION(S)
61-3526 (a52320): Matthew Ortiz and Summer Ortiz propose(s) using 0.45 ac-ft. from groundwater (6 miles NE of Panguitch) for DOMESTIC.
61-3538 (a52329): Family Trust of The George R. Aiken Jr. and Donna M. Aiken Revocable Trust propose(s) using 1.5 ac-ft. from groundwater (4 miles south of Hatch) for DOMESTIC; IRRIGATION; STOCKWATERING.
61-3537 (a52371): Janet Kacskos propose(s) using 0.0513 cfs OR 4 ac-ft. from groundwater (14 miles NW of Panguitch) for IRRIGATION.
NONUSE APPLICATION(S)
61-2441 (): Gregory J. and Shauna M. Walch Family Trust is/are seeking a nonuse period for 0.5 ac-ft. from the South Fork Sevier River (6.5 miles SW of Hatch) for IRRIGATION.
61-2731 (): Gregory J. and Shauna M. Walch Family Trust is/are seeking a nonuse period for 0.5 ac-ft. from the South Fork Sevier River (6.5 miles SW of Hatch) for IRRIGATION.
Teresa Wilhelmsen, P.E., State Engineer
Published in The Wayne and Garfield County Insider on DECEMBER 5 & 12, 2024
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
TICABOO UTILITY IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT
On November 13th, 2024, the Board of Trustees of the Ticaboo Utility Improvement District reviewed and approved a tentative budget for the fiscal year 2025. On the same date, the Board also scheduled a public hearing regarding the tentative budget to be held on December 11th, 2022, at 6:00 p.m. using the Board’s regular electronic meeting. The purpose of the public hearing will be to give all interested persons in attendance an opportunity to be heard on the estimates of revenues and expenditures, rate changes, or any item in the tentative budget of any fund. After the public hearing has closed, the Board may adopt the tentative budget as the final budget, subject to amendment or revision. A copy of the proposed budget will be posted online by visiting www.ticaboouid.com/ recent-news and can be examined at the district’s offices by appointment at the TUID office at the Basecamp building next to the Ticaboo Lodge, Ticaboo, Utah 84533 during normal business hours at any time prior to the public hearing.
Published in The Wayne and Garfield County Insider on NOVEMBER 28 and DECEMBER 5, 2024
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) FIRST PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
WAYNE COUNTY
Notice is hereby given that Wayne County will hold a public hearing on December 13, 2024, at 18 S. Main Loa, Utah, Commission Room at 10:00 a.m. Wayne County is eligible to apply to the Utah Department of Workforce Services for funding under the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Small Cities Program, a federally funded program administered by the State of Utah, Housing and Community Development Division (HCD). Wayne County is eligible to apply for CDBG funding provided Wayne County meets the applicable program requirements. The purpose of the public hearing is to provide citizens with pertinent information about the Community Development Block Grant program and to allow for discussion of possible applications. This public hearing will cover eligible activities, program requirements, and expected funding allocations in the region. The CDBG Program can fund a broad range of activities, including, but not limited to: construction of public works and facilities, e.g., water and sewer lines, fire stations, acquisition of real property, and provision of public services such as food banks or homeless shelters.
In the event that Wayne County chooses to apply for CDBG funding, a second public hearing will be held at a later time to discuss the project. Further information can be obtained by contacting Teresa Brian at 435-836-1348.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, individuals needing special accommodations (including auxiliary communicative aids and services) during this hearing should notify Teresa Brian at 18 S. Main Loa, Utah at least three days prior to the hearing. Individuals with speech and/or hearing impairments may call the Relay Utah by dialing 711. Spanish Relay Utah: 1.888.346.3162.
Published on State of Utah’s Public Meeting Notice Website –www.utah.gov/pmn on November 22, 2024.
1 Public hearing must be held by one of these entities. Other entities wishing to apply must have one of these eligible applicants sponsor their application and hold a public hearing.
Published in The Wayne and Garfield County Insider on NOVEMBER 28 and DECEMBER 5, 2024
GARFIELD COUNTY SURPLUS SALE GARFIELD COUNTY IS ACCEPTING SEALED BIDS ON THE FOLLOWING ITEMS: 2022 Ford F250 3- 2023 GMC Sierras 2018 Chevy Impala 2014 Dodge 1500 Rosco Pneumatic Roller Bomag Pnuematic Roller 2020 Bobcat Backhoe Attachment Massey Ferguson Tractor with Front Loader Bucket Coats 40-40 Tire Machine Mid 1990s Chip Spreader John Deer Tractor 1987 CMC Trailer 1978 Belly Dump Trailer Commercial Deep Fryer
BIDS WILL BE ACCEPTED IN THE COUNTY CLERK’S OFFICE UNTIL 5:00 P.M., DECEMBER 18TH, 2024. BIDS WILL BE OPENED THURSDAY DECEMBER 19TH, 2024 IN THE COMMISSION CHAMBERS OF THE GARFIELD COUNTY COURTHOUSE, 55 SOUTH MAIN STREET, PANGUITCH, UTAH. THE SUCCESSFUL BIDDER WILL HAVE 48 HOURS TO COMPLETE THE TRANSACTION. All vehicles will be sold in “as is” condition, and all sales will be final. Purchases can be made with cash or certified check. Garfield County reserves the right to accept or reject any and all offers. For additional information contact the Clerk’s Office at (435) 676-1100 or www.garfield.utah.gov.
Published in The Wayne and Garfield County Insider on DECEMBER 5 & 12, 2024
BOARD VACANCY HATCH TOWN
Hatch Town Board has one position to fill for a Hatch Town board member. Interested applicants must be a full-time resident and reside inside Hatch Town limits. This position is an appointed position until the next election. Please turn in a brief explanation of why you would want to be on the town board to the Hatch Town Office no later than January 6, 2025. We will contact all applicants for an interview to be held at the board’s regularly scheduled meeting on January 15, 2025. If you need more information, please contact Jacie Torgersen at 435735-4364
Published in The Wayne and Garfield County Insider on DECEMBER 5 & 12, 2024
Utah Division of Wildlife Resources
C lassified a ds
POSITIONS AVAILABLE: Garfield County School District is hiring for the following positions. For the application process and description of each, please see the district website www.garfk12.org
Athletic Announcer at Bryce Valley High School
Head Volleyball Coach at Bryce Valley High School
Substitute/Activity Bus Drivers
Para-Professionals/Aides at All Schools
Substitutes for Teachers, Custodians, and Food Service Workers
SALARY: Please see 2024-2025 Garfield County School Districts Classified, District Office, and Certified Salary Schedules on the district website.
QUALIFICATIONS: Applicants must be fingerprinted and satisfactorily pass an employment background check. Garfield County School District is an equal opportunity employer. Garfield County School District reserves the right to accept or reject any or all applications.
