The Morgan County News | December 2, 2022

MORGAN COUNTY NEWS

Local teen sets up hot cocoa stand for ‘Evie’s Gift’

By Verlene Johnson

On Dec. 10, when Gerrit Noorda, a teen from Mountain Green, sets up his hot chocolate and doughnut stand, he doesn’t use the money for himself or even to buy Christmas presents for his loved ones. What Garrett has done with over $10,000 over the last decade is unselfishly donate it to help families who have had a stillborn baby born or a baby that passes away soon after being born. “He is a super sweet kid who loves to help others,” said his mother Jen, who also said that giving is simply a part of Gerrit’s nature.

Gerrit set up his first cocoa stand in 2013 when Gerrit's cousin, Evelyn (Evie) Noorda was stillborn on Sept. 16, 2013. Raising $300 selling hot cocoa and doughnuts, Gerrit informed his parents that he would be paying it forward to “Evie’s Gift,” giving the money to the SHARE program that came to support his cousin's family by offering coun seling and dressing Evie in a beautiful dress. Pictures were then taken by volun teers from “Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep.” A portion of the money also went to Evie’s family to help pay for the headstone.

He has continued to do nate $500 to $700 to the Box Elder/Cache County SHARE Program and in the past few years, he has donated $500 - $700 to local families who have recently lost a child. This money is given directly to the family to either help purchase a headstone or to help with any other needs the family may have.

While attending Moun tain Green Middle School, in 2020, Gerrit heard about a teacher at school whose four-month-old grand daughter had passed away. Gerrit’s sister, who was in Christy Snyder’s sixth-grade class asked her brother if he would be willing to help her teacher’s family. Sny der said that her family was

grateful for his compassion and kindness. “Gerrit is an extraordinary young man,” Snyder complimented. “I am thankful for his willingness to reach out and bless others through his generous acts of service and goodness.”

“We are forever grateful for the generous donations

STAND on page 2

Local professional artist hosts holiday studio show in Mountain Green

By Rachel Cordeiro

D avid W. Jackson is a professional artist whose paintings capture wildlife and landscapes of the west. He spent his childhood in Ogden, Utah, but settled in Clinton shortly after marrying his wife Jeaneil. Over thirty years ago, they had the chance to build their dream home in Mountain Green and settled in the rolling hills of the Highlands neighborhood. Jackson considers him self a mountain man and loves calling the Morgan Valley his home.

Jackson began painting at a young age, dis playing a natural talent and admiration for art. His parents fostered his interest and skill by providing opportunities for him to continue to develop and grow as an artist. After entering an art contest, doors opened for him to enroll in a correspondence course through the Art Instruction School for a couple of years completing studies in drawing and oil painting. The cost for the courses were high at $800, but because his parents recognized his poten tial, they sacrificed to make it happen.

He went on to study art in college, receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in education from Weber State University and completing a Master of Fine Arts in Painting through Utah State Uni versity. It was at the urging of his professor and mentor, Farrell R. Collet (1907-2000), that Jackson began to enter national art competitions, and as a result his art career began to advance. There is no question that Jackson is skilled in what he does and his success speaks for itself; however, despite

In a large study, the experimen tal Alzheimer’s drug lecanemab reduced the rate of cognitive decline by 27 percent in people in the early stages of the disease.

Police say they discovered “what appeared to be human fetus or infant” and additional remains at an apartment in South Boston. An autopsy has revealed four infants: two female and two male.

Senate passes bill to protect same-sex marriages

The Senate has approved a bill to codify federal protections for same-sex and interracial marriag es by a 61-36 vote. It now heads back to the House where it is expected to be passed quickly.

Twitter will no longer enforce its COVID misinformation policy

Public health experts and social media researchers are concerned that the change could have seri ous consequences if it discourag es vaccination and other efforts to combat the still-spreading virus.

at 79

NEW YORK — Christine McVie, the British-born Fleetwood Mac vocalist, songwriter and keyboard player whose cool, soulful con tralto helped define such classics as “You Make Loving Fun,” “Ev erywhere” and “Don’t Stop,” died Wednesday at age 79. Her death was announced on the band’s social media accounts. No cause of death or other details were im mediately provided, but a family statement said she “passed away peacefully at hospital this morn ing” with family around her after a “short illness.”

ALABAMA—Tornadoes damaged numerous homes, destroyed a fire station, briefly trapped people in a grocery store and ripped the roof off an apartment complex in Mississippi, while two people died as a tree crunched their mobile home in Alabama, authorities said Wednesday. The National Weath er Service had warned that strong twisters capable of carving up communities over long distances were possible as the storm front moved eastward from Texas.

SEVEN-YEAR -OLD GERRIT NOORDA setting up his first “Evie’s Gift” hot cocoa stand in 2013.

Courtesy Photo

An Alzheimer's drug shows modest success slowing declines in memory, thinking

Police find the remains of 4 infants inside a Boston apartment

Fleetwood Mac singer-songwriter Christine McVie dies

Tornadoes fueled by high temperatures rip through Southern communities

County seeks to get FEMA Weber River floodplain maps updated

By Linda Petersen

Morgan County has applied to the Community Impact Board for a $50,000 grant to help fund a Weber River Floodplain Mapping Study.

Commissioner Jared Anderson made the application on behalf of the coun ty. The current Federal Emergency Management Agency map of the area “does not accurately reflect actual floodplain impacts to properties along the Weber River” from the downstream Morgan City corporate limits to the upstream limit of the Morgan County fairground property, the grant applica tion says.

The study, if funded will identify road, bridges, utilities and other infra structure. “School properties, residential areas, industrial areas and public facil ities will benefit by having the updated floodplain identified and mapped and by having improved information regarding meaningful mitigation measures,” the application says.

The study is needed because many properties along the Weber River were incorrectly classified as being part of the floodplain after a 2012 software up date caused FEMA maps to show wider swaths in floodplains across the country, County Planning Director Joshua Cook told the county commission at its Nov.

22 meeting.

Since that time, property owners wishing to make use of their land in the designated areas have had to get a letter from FEMA known as a Letter Of Map Revision officially revising the current National Flood Insurance Program map to show changes to “floodplains, regula tory floodways, or flood elevations.”

“There was a huge increase in the number of LOMRs that were needed to be filed for properties that weren’t his torically in the floodplain that were now being shown in the floodplain,” Cook said. Those properties were required to carry flood insurance.

Improvements in technology over the past 10 years now allow for a more detailed hydraulic analysis of the floodplain to be performed, the coun ty’s application says. When the study is completed, the county will be able to submit a partial map revision to FEMA.

The county will use funds from a 1983 emergency flood fund to cover its required match of 50 percent on the study, Anderson told the other commis sioners.

“It’s pretty exciting to get to this point,” said Anderson who indicated the study had been under discussion for some months, “when you deal with flood ways, to have a mechanism now that is a newer modeling and to be able to bring that floodway in as best as we

Ministry from California aids in finding lost child in Utah

By Alisha Copfer

A fter the disappearance of a young male on Nov. 15, the missing child’s family requested help from anyone willing to give them aid. Tom Telford, a family spokesperson, stated on a Facebook page, “The Wallace family is overwhelmed with emotion and feel a great responsibility to artic ulate their gratitude to all involved in this effort.”

“The Wallace family has asked that an outpouring of support for SERT Ministries be considered. In the moments leading up to Nate being found, the SERT team was noth ing short of heroic. Their technical capability, coupled with humility and calming influence, were game-chang ing. SERT is doing amazing work to find missing persons, and we encour age you to learn and donate to their efforts to help find those like Nate.”

SERT Ministries stands for “Search, Evangelize, Rescue, Train.”

According to their website, SERT’s mission is to accept calls from fam ilies whose child or loved one has gone missing, both juveniles and people of any age. They say they are, “trained and unafraid.” They partner with law enforcement and private

investigators to find these missing people. Once someone is found, SERT makes every effort to make sure they either return to their family or go to a program that will help their situation.

“In writing [this Facebook post ing], a profound compassion has been learned by all of us regarding families who have children or loved ones missing,” wrote Telford. “We are heartbroken for anyone who lives with the uncertainty of the location of loved ones. We all can do more to see and support you.”

According to SERT Ministries’ website, Rudy Gonzalez is a for mer USMC Reconnaissance Marine and Police Officer turned Pastor. He trains, equips and leads teams to seek and save those who are lost, lonely, hurting and afraid. Gonzalez express es his, “desire to move from a place of complacency to action so that the lost can be rescued and restored.”

Wallace went missing Nov. 14 about 8:15 p.m., and was located by Nov. 16. The Wallace family has expressed their gratitude to SERT Ministries and is encouraging every one to donate to their work at www. sertministries.com/how-to-help. l

can all the way from the boundary on the west on the city all the way up to the pickle ball courts.”

“When property owners have done this before [LOMRs] one property can cost $30,000, $40,000, $50,000, so for $100,000 to evaluate that whole section is phenomenal,” he said. “I think it’s a great deal for us; it’s going to help the county, the city and residents.”

In answer to a query from Commis sioner Blaine Fackrell about the need for the study, Commissioner Mike New ton responded.

“We’re reducing the floodway,” he said. “This gives you so much more options to be able to do things with all that ground along the river. Everybody shies away from it as soon as you say ‘floodway.’ l

SENIOR CALENDAR

MONDAYS - Quilting at 1 p.m.

WEDNESDAYS - Mahjong & puzzles 1 p.m.

THURSDAYS - cards & puzzles 1 p.m.

DEC. 6 - Shopping trip to Ogden 1:30 p.m.

BUNCO 6 P.M. (a few more players are needed, call if interested)

DEC 13 - Christmas dinner party with

entertainment 5 p.m. (reservations required)

DEC. 21 - Blood pressure checks by Enhabit Home Health 11a.m. to noon

DEC. 27 - Foot clinic by Happy Feet (call for appointment)

Lunch is served on Tuesday's, Wednes day's, and Thursday's at noon

Medicare help available on the 2nd Tues day each month from noon to 3:30 p.m. (open enrollment ends December 7th)

and support Gerrit has received over years from residents of Morgan Coun ty that come out to support this great cause,” said Gerrit’ dad, Jared Noorda. “His sole purpose is to pay it forward. He was touched by the support his fam ily received during the difficult time of losing a baby and has always wanted to pay it forward and support the pro grams that came together to support his family and also to support others who are going through the difficult struggles of losing a child.”

Gerrit’s younger sister Baylee said, “I love to do “Evie’s Gift.” It is so exciting to see how many people come. I love how my brother helps families who need it the most.” She said it is a really fun time for her and she is always happy that day.

“Evie’s Gift” stand will be set up at the entrance of Rollins Ranch at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 10 ready to sell hot cocoa and Donuts. When asked why he continues to do “Evie’s Gift” each year, Gerrit replied, I like to warm peoples hearts with kind acts and hot choco late.” l

15-YEAR-OLD GERRIT at last year's stand selling hot cocoa and douhgnuts for Evie’s Gift

Courtesy Photo

MORGAN COUNTY OFFICIALS are hoping a proposed floodplain study will help correct a FEMA map of the area.

Courtesy image/Morgan County

MOUNTAIN GREEN FIRE DISTRICT REPORT

moved the burning trash can away from the home, and into the vacant lot next door. Responding Mountain Green vol unteer firefighters rapidly extinguished the melted trash can. Neighbors had heard a car noise, then a “bang” like fireworks. When their son looked out, he saw the fire and alerted his parents. Suspiciously a year ago, a similar trash can fire occurred at the neighbors ad dress, also on Thanksgiving weekend. Morgan Sheriff’s Office was notified, and the Mountain Green Fire Marshal is investigating.

Upon returning to the fire engine after putting out the trash can, fire fighters discovered smoke in the cab of the engine. A small electrical fire was burning insulation on a wire that led to an un-used onboard battery charger that had been removed years ago. Quick action by Lieutenant Tyler Nielsen and Firefighter 2’s Doug Dingman, Am berlee Whitemyer and Corey Caple saved the day. They quickly removed the access panel and the main mobile radio and extinguished the fire, saving your fire engine from further damage. Kudos to our folks for great situational awareness.

Please keep your trash can “safe”. Either keep it some distance from your home, or if in the garage, be sure you discard batteries separately and safely. Never discard warm fireplace ashes, smoking materials or other potential ignition sources.

OPINION

That Ol’ Christmas Spirit

Even though 2022 seemed to last as long as a 5-yearold reading “Green Eggs and Ham,” the holidays rushed in like a wicked case of intestinal flu. But high grocery prices? Rising inflation? Those things have never stopped Americans from over-celebrating the holidays.

If you’re finding it hard to cap ture the spirit of Christmas this year, just remember the real meaning of the holi days: getting presents. All those bright ly-wrapped packages will bring you hours of temporary joy and fulfillment.

I wonder if we have lost our senses, in a very literal way. Maybe if we come back to our senses for the holidays, we’ll stop eating when we’re not hungry, partying when we’re tired and buying a doghouse full of gifts for the family pup py when we’re already over budget.

Let’s start with the sights of the season, like the piles of enticing Amazon boxes shoved into hiding places and spill ing out of closets. The twinkling lights of police cars at the neighbor’s house. The dead-eyed stare of a Target cashier and colored globes hanging on the Christmas tree that drops needles when someone walks by.

How about the sounds of the season, like your favorite holiday tunes played by an accordion, or the infinite Mariah Carey song remix/mash-ups/covers. You’ll hear “Carol of the Bells” so often it becomes part of that nightmare where you’re run ning to get the last LEGO set but you’re wearing furry slippers and keep tripping over elves. And there’s so much jingling!

What does Christmas feel like? A toddler’s fingers, sticky from a candy cane, leaving pink fingerprints down the hall. Paper cuts from wrapping gifts. Cold, wet toes as you trudge through snowy parking lots and discover a hole in the sole of your boot. Frozen fingertips, runny noses and being bustled by bustling crowds.

The tastes of Christmas include nas tiness like egg nog and fruitcake, but also

the sugary sweetness of gumdrops that suction to your molars and must be surgically removed. Then there’s scalding hot chocolate with toasted marshmallows.

(Hint: don’t toast marshmal lows in the actual toaster. I know that now.)

December smells like cinnamon, cloves, Seussian roast beast and smoke from your overused credit card. I’ve never smelled roasted chestnuts, but I imagine they have an aro ma like a wet dog lying by the fire. Real evergreen trees emit the scent of fresh forests while making it hard to breathe for people with pine allergies.

Obviously, it’s easy to get caught up in what’s going wrong with the holidays, without paying attention to the feeling behind the scenes. When I sit with that emotion, it’s one of peace, generosity, kindness, forgiveness and love. Things Hallmark Christmas movies are always going on about.

What if Hallmark is right? And I’ve never said that before.

Maybe the miracle of Christmas is noticing the small pleasures like when your friend sends you a funny card or your husband brings you a soft, fluffy blanket as you binge holiday movies. Maybe it’s reading stories to your grand kids or listening to grandparents share favorite Christmas morning memories.

More than the senses, Christmas is about time. A time to pause. A time to be still. A time to remember. A time to breathe. A time to be grateful. A time to be with family. A time reflect with wonder and awe at the beauty of this world.

Coming back to our senses, in a real way, slows time. It reminds us we’re not alone as we move together through these dark nights with bright stars, just doing the best we can.

Peri Kinder is an award-winning humor writer, hosts the Life & Laugh ter podcast and was voted Best of State for 2022. She’s also a yoga/meditation instructor and life coach. l

NOVEMBER 27

NOV. 22

No, we aren't heading out to catch lobster in the North Sea, or guest star on Dangerous Catch. Your firefighters are now outfitted with ice rescue gear. We were called to help rescue a deer from the ice last year. The nearest ice rescue unit is over 15 minutes away. Had that been a child, we would have had great difficulty, so we are now appropriately outfitted. We have several ponds and reservoirs, along with the Weber River, where kiddos or fishermen might play. With temps in the low teens at night, ice has begun forming. Please discourage kids from playing on the ice, it is not thick enough to hold any weight.

An airplane crashed in the canyon this afternoon, near Durst Mountain several miles up Cottonwood Canyon Road. Mountain Green Fire and Mor gan Fire&EMS units responded along with Morgan Sheriff’s Deputies. The pilot miraculously walked away from the crash, then hiked about 6 miles to get cell service to call 911. Mountain Green firefighters arrived, assessed the wreckage, disabled the batteries and addressed the fuel leak. Access to the site was difficult, on ATV roads most of the way. Weber Morgan 911 assisted in

Taxes

Of the three major taxes (the threeleg stool for funding the government), I hear more complaints about one (property tax) than the other two.

BY BRYAN GRAY

The reason is obvious: for many, it comes in one lump sum. Income tax payments are taken regularly from paychecks, so, not only is the tax not as notice able, but a majority of Utahns receive a refund in February or March or each year. Similarly, sales taxes are hardly seen since they are an incremental portion of every transaction, and few people get up set paying 94 cents in tax on a $13 pizza.

But property tax is a different animal. A good portion of homeowners have paid off their mortgage, so they see a sizable tax bill, often made worse by the increase in the value of their home. The increased value would normally be a good thing, but not when you have to write a check in late November.

This year I wrote a check to my county for more than $2,000. After an alyzing where the money goes, I wasn’t angry. Honestly, in many ways my pay ment is a bargain.

Take a look at mine; yours is proba bly similar.

NOV. 26

A suspicious trash can fire turned into a significant drama for our firefight ers last night.

At 7:20 p.m., neighbors reported a burning trash can next to a home in the Cottonwoods, Park Meadow Rd. and Harvard Dr. The neighbors quickly

The largest portion goes to the school district. In my case, the cost of the county and state school levies was $116 per month, an increase of about $4.50 monthly over the past year. I view the school taxes two ways. First, someone else paid for my education, and since I’m not a deadbeat, it’s only fair that I pay back what I received. Second, the societal costs of having uneducated hoards flood ing into our communities and unable to contribute to our lifestyle and economy is certainly more than $116 per month.

I paid about $4 per month in library

taxes. I feel like a lottery winner since my savings this year for my wife and I on library use vs. purchasing books is approaching $800.

My county taxes are $22 per month, a $4 increase. For $22 monthly I get potentially life-saving paramedic service, upkeep and snow removal on county roads, flood deterrence, a jail, and mos quito abatement crews. Gee, just keeping criminals and mosquitoes out of my neighborhood is worth $22.

I paid $2 each month to the sewer district, a whole 12 cents more than last year. If you hate paying for an efficient sewer system, please don’t ask me to visit your home without a HAZMat suit!

I paid less than $4 per month to my water district. Considering we have some of the most inexpensive water in the U.S., I consider it a steal. In fact, we should have to pay more as the drought contin ues.

Then I have my city tax, another $22 per month, a relatively small number for driving on city streets and knowing that if I call 911, trained police and fire profes sionals will arrive within minutes.

In all, I’m paying about $15 more per month than last year. At the same time, my house increased in value by more than $100,000.

Granted, I didn’t open up the cham pagne to celebrate writing out the check. But I also recognized that a tax is our payment to live in a civilized society. So, since I’d rather live in Utah than in Ethio pia, my check is in the mail.

Bryan Gray, a long-time Davis Coun ty resident, is a former school teacher and has been a columnist for more than 26 years in newspapers along the Wasatch Front. l

triangulation to locate the crash site. No injuries.

Chief Brian Brendel

LT. NIELSEN and Firefighter Nancy Fahrenbach in Exposure Coveralls. These protect against cold & provide integral PFDs in case of accidental immersion.

LT DAVID HANSEN in fully-encapsu lating Mustang Ice Commander suit.

FIREFIGHTERS DINGMAN and Caple (orange) and Lt. Nielsen, center, ready for the Polar Bear challenge.

NOT MUCH LEFT.

Photo by neighbors

LT NIELSEN (L), watches FF Capel extinguish what is left of the trash can.

TWIN-TAILED PUSHER-PROPELLER aircraft. Pilot made a skilled forced landing.

FIREFIGHTERS MAKE the wreckage safe.

LIFE & LAUGHTER

BY PERI KINDER

The opinions stated in these articles are solely those of the authors and not of the Morgan County News.

are our payment to live in a civilized society

BEGINNING STAGES

JACKSON

from page 1

his successful career Jackson remains humble in sharing his accomplish ments, attributing his success to con sistency, time, and hard work.“The training comes from the miles be hind the brush, and the legwork and getting around and doing shows and feeding shows, and…thousands of paintings.”

Though he has experience in various mediums, and initially paint ed with watercolors, Jackson now primarily paints with oils, and many of his works are displayed in various galleries located in Arizona, Tennes see, Colorado and Utah. In addition to oil paintings, Jackson also crafts bronze sculptures. Over the years, has been commissioned to make mon umental sculptures for a variety of schools and businesses, among which include the Weber State University wildcat mascot statue.

While he was working to build a livelihood through art sales, Jack son understood his responsibility to support a family and pursued educa tion as a career path; he taught art at Bonneville High School for 26 years, utilizing the extended summer breaks to focus on painting the various land scapes to which he traveled. He still receives correspondence from former students and is thrilled to learn of their personal achievements in art as well as in life. Although Jackson retired from teaching years ago, he still has the heart of a teacher which is evident in his role as mentor to several up-and-coming, newer art ists who are still working to develop their skill and technique of the craft, many of whom he takes the time to meet with personally. He believes that sharing his personal knowledge and skill with others and providing feedback to their questions, allows continued opportunities for creative growth, not only for those seeking to learn and improve but also for him self as a master artist.

In the past, Jackson has painted en plein air, painting a landscape

while on location, outdoors, but more recently he prefers to capture a scene on camera before painting from that particular photo; as a wildlife artist at heart, he often chooses to add wild life into the scenery as his imagina tion envisions it.

Jackson’s studio is located in the basement of his home in Mountain Green, an inviting, rustic space that showcases a creative display of his work as an artist. The space con tains completed works for upcoming shows, as well as any current, un finished painting on the easel. His palette of paint is a work of art itself, a spectacular array of vibrant colors.

Jackson wishes to share his artwork with others in our commu nity and beyond, and is hosting a Holiday Studio Show, December 5-10, 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. daily, at his Mountain Green studio. He stated that he does plan to offer some Christmas deals on the artwork, but that he wishes to invite anyone who is interested in viewing his work, whether they have plans to purchase any pieces or not. Jackson enjoys meeting new people, especially those who live here locally, and would love the chance to say “howdy”.

Jackson shared, “The work of an artist is a continual evolution, a reflection of his life, feelings, and experiences. I hope that my art reflects new strengths and growth in composition, color, and application.” He shares his experiences and feel ings through every paint stroke on the canvas, offering it as a gift to the viewer; one of his greatest pleasures as an artist is to witness the joy peo ple receive through art, and that joy is magnified when the art enjoyed by others is his own.

You can find more information on David W. Jackson and his art at www.davidjacksonstudio.com or can read more about his personal journey as an artist from the book about his life, “Enjoying the Journey, The Art of David W. Jackson”, which will be available for purchase at his studio show next week. l

PROGRESSION

ADDING FUTHER DETAIL

THE FINISHED PRODUCT

FESTIVAL OF TREES

The Festival of Trees, in conjunction with Hometown Christmas, will be on display at Morgan Grace Church 101 N. Commercial Street, Saturday, Dec. 3. A silent auction will be held with all proceeds being donated to local families. Last year, the auction raised $6,600 helping 90+ families. Awards will be given to trees in categories such as "People’s Choice," and "Highest Bid." The Chamber asks that the highest bidder for each tree be picked by Monday, Dec. 5.

SCHOOL MENU

Morgan & Mtn Green

Elementary Breakfast

Monday, Dec. 5

Mini Bread, Cereal Variety, Scrambled eggs, Peaches, Apple Wedges

Tuesday, Dec. 6

Breakfast Pizza, Cereal Variety, Ap plesauce, Fruit Cocktail

Wednesday, Dec. 7

French Toast Sticks, Cereal Vari ety,Yogurt, Mandarin Oranges, Or ange Juice

Thursday Dec. 8

Egg McMuffin, Cereal Variety, Peach es, Apple Wedges

Friday Dec. 9

Eggo Mini Waffles, Cereal Variety, Yogurt, Oranges, Pears

Morgan & Mtn. Green

Middle Lunch

Monday, Dec. 5

Sweet and Sour Chicken, Hamburger bun, Hamburger, Cheddar Cheese

Oriental Chicken Salad, Brussels Sprouts, Baby Carrots, Curly Fries, Sliced Peaches, Pineapple Tidbits Apples, Oranges, Snack pack Pud ding, Fry sauce

Tuesday, Dec. 6

Chicken Fillet Patty, Country Gravy Popcorn Chicken, Chef Salad, Wheat Roll, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans 1/2, French Fries, Fruit Cocktail Sliced Peaches, Apples, Oranges Sugar Cookie, Fry sauce

Wednesday, Dec. 7

MES TEACHERS SPOTLIGHT

Megan Phillips

By Verlene Johnson

Megan Phillips grew up in Morgan Valley where she graduated from Morgan High School in 1998. She attended Weber State University earning a Bachelor of Science degree with a dual major in Early Childhood Development and Psychology.

Phillis began her teaching career at WSU’s Children’s School and then moved to Head Start in Ogden. From there she opened a Preschool in her home where she worked for 10 years. She then was hired at Morgan Ele mentary School where she worked as an aide for four years.

After receiving her Graduate Cer tificate in Elementary Education from WSU she taught kindergarten through sixth grade Morgan Online for one year and is currently in her first year teaching Kindergarten at MES.

“I connect with teaching in so many ways,” said Phillips. “I love learning and being in a learning environment. I love that my job has so much variety to it – every day is something new and no two days are ever the same! I love that I get to be creative every day and share that love for creating with my students.” She said of her co- workers, “The kinder garten team makes my life so much brighter; they are simply the BEST of the BEST.”

He is also a teacher at UVU in their Fire Academy. Together they have three children, Logan graduated from Morgan High School in 2022. He will begin serving an LDS mission to Piura Peru in December. McKell is a student at Morgan High School and loves to go longboarding and hang ing out with her friends. Cohen is in elementary. He loves anything that has to do with Sports. If he has some type of ball in his hand, he is happy –his most recent favorite sport is street hockey. Living in Morgan her whole life, Phillips said it’s so fun to be able to raise her own kid in Morgan.

Morgan &

Monday, Dec. 5

Mtn.

Green Middle & HS Breakfast

Scrambled eggs, Cereal Variety, Mini Bread, Peaches, Apple Wedges

Tuesday, Dec. 6

Breakfast Pizza, Cereal Variety, Ap plesauce, Fruit Cocktail Wednesday, Dec. 7

French Toast Stick, Cereal Variety, Yo gurt, high protein, Mandarin Oranges Orange Juice

Thursday Dec. 8

Egg McMuffin, Cereal Variety, Peach es, Apple Wedges

Friday Dec. 9

Eggo Mini Waffles, Cereal Variety, Yogurt, high protein, Oranges, Pears

Morgan & Mtn. Green Elementary Lunch

Monday, Dec. 5

Orange Chicken with Brown Rice, Broccoli Normandy, Baby Carrots Pineapple Tidbits, Apple Juice

Fortune Cookie

Tuesday, Dec. 6

Nacho Chips, Taco Meat, Cheese Sauce, Corn, Black Beans, Mandarin Oranges, Pears, Mrs Field Choc Chip Cookie

Wednesday, Dec. 7

Chicken Fillet Patty, Wheat Roll, Country Gravy, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans 1/2, Applesauce, Peaches, Gelatin

Thursday Dec. 8

Spaghetti, read stick 1ww, Peas Glazed Carrots, Apple Wedges, Grapes, Ginger Snap Cookie

Friday Dec. 9

French Toast Sticks, Sausage Patty Hashbrown Triangles, Sweet Thing Puff, Orange Juice, Fruit Cocktail Sugar Cookie

Tortilla, Taco Meat, Chicken Nuggets Taco Salad, Baby Carrots, Corn, Black Beans, Strawberry Cup, Applesauce, Apples, Oranges, Pumpkin Cake

Thursday Dec. 8

Cowboy Lasagna, Bread stick 1ww Chicken Caesar Salad, Corn Dogs Crinkle Cut Fries, Broccoli Florets Peas, Applesauce, Sliced Pears Apples, Oranges, Oatmeal Cookie,Fry sauce

Friday Dec. 9

Pretzel Bites, Queso Dip, Chicken Strips / Choice, French Fries, Glazed Carrots, Applesauce, Fruit Cocktail Apples, Oranges, Double Chocolate Chip Cookie

Morgan High Lunch

Monday, Dec. 5

Sweet and Sour Chicken, Wheat Roll Hamburger bun, Hamburger, Ched dar Cheese, Oriental Chicken Salad, Brussels Sprouts, Celery Sticks, Baby Carrots, Curly Fries, Sliced Peaches Pineapple Tidbits, Apples, Oranges Snack pack Pudding, Fry sauce

Tuesday, Dec. 6

Chicken Fillet Patty, Popcorn Chicken Chef Salad, Wheat Roll, Mashed Po tatoes, Green Beans 1/2, French Fries Fruit Cocktail, Sliced Peaches, Apples Oranges, Sugar Cookie, Fry sauce

Wednesday, Dec. 7

Tortilla, Taco Meat, Chicken Nuggets Wheat Roll, Taco Salad, Baby Carrots Corn, Black Beans, Potato Wedges Strawberry Cup, Applesauce, Apples Oranges, Pumpkin Cake

Thursday Dec. 8

Cowboy Lasagna, Bread stick 1ww

Chicken Caesar Salad, Corn Dogs Crinkle Cut Fries, Broccoli Florets Peas, Applesauce, Sliced Pears Apples, Oranges, Oatmeal Cookie Fry sauce

Friday Dec. 9

Pretzel Bites, Cheese Sauce, Chicken Strips / Choice, Wheat Roll, Potato Wedges, Baby Carrots, Applesauce

Fruit Cocktail, Apples, Oranges

Double Chocolate Chip Cookie

SPORTS PREDICTIONS

• 2A/3A Boys Preview–Richfield vs. No. 3 Morgan on Dec. 2 at 8:30 p.m. tipoff; 8:20 p.m. is the pregame show. Richfield will wear blue uniforms with red numbers with white lines with blue shorts. I predict Morgan Boys will beat Richfield with a final score of 53 to 52.

• I think Morgan Girls will beat the

Daniel Mudrow

Orem Tigers on Dec. 2 at 7 p.m. with a final score of 56 to 26.

• 2A/3A Boys Preview–No. 2 Manti vs. No. 3 Morgan at 3 p.m. tipoff; 2:50 p.m. is the pregame show. I predict Morgan will beat Manti with a final score of 65 to 43.

Phillips said what she loves most about teaching is her students. “They are AMAZING. I love the connection of teacher and student. Each student will always be a part of my life and hopefully, they will always remember me as their kindergarten teacher.”

Feeling a special connection with her kindergarten teacher Barbara Spencer, she said, “I was just sure she loved kindergarten so much and in my five-year-old mind I remember thinking I was her favorite studentas did everyone else in the class!” Phillips says she hopes to pass that connection down to her own students!

Phillips is married to her hus

She appreciates the support of her family who helps her in her classroom to help out, and cuts out laminating while watching movies on Saturday night. “We as teachers would never be able to do what we love without their support!”

In her spare time, Phillips loves to cook, anything and everything. She loves to play with her smoker in the backyard. She also loves to make per fect pizza crust. She said she has per fected her own chocolate chip cookie recipe, and most recently she enjoys learning about everything sourdough related. She loves all things outdoorscamping, biking, hiking, fishing, pad dle boarding, pickle ball, corn hole; “basically anything with fresh air and the sun on my face,” she commented. l

By Ethan Hoffmann

Morgan County Library will final ly be going fine-free! The library board has approved a pilot program to experiment with the possibility of no fines being a permanent real ity. However, even if this structure is found to have a positive impact, not all fees will be terminated: pa trons will still be responsible for the replacement of lost and/or damaged books and materials.

The success of the program will be evaluated next November, and the board’s decision finalized. “We hope to be able to make the change per manent,” commented Erin Bott, the library director. “We ask our patrons to help us work towards that goal by continuing to return their library books on time.”

Even a minuscule late fee of ten cents per day can add up quickly if library patrons are checking out mul tiple items to meet the needs of their families. As a result, this can become a barrier to access. “At the Morgan County Library, our mission is to give all members of the community access to materials and resources to meet their educational and personal enrich ment needs,” said Bott. “We hope that by going fine-free, we will remove a barrier and make our resources even more accessible to the community.”

The Morgan County Library takes its responsibility to the taxpayers of Morgan County very seriously. The

librarians try to be good stewards of the budget dollars they are given, and by managing the library budget responsibility, they are able to com pensate for lost late-fee revenue and quite literally put that money back in their patron’s pockets.

Beginning January first, Morgan County Library will no longer charge late fees for overdue books. “The library is really excited to offer this to our patrons!” Bott said. Check out their website for more information: https://www.library.morgancountyu tah.gov/, l

band Ashley who is a Medical Cap tain for Ogden City Fire Department, and a Volunteer for Ambulance and Fire Department here in Morgan.

MMS participates in local VFW Patriots Pen essay contest

By Verlene Johnson

Patriots Pen is an annual essay contest sponsored by Morgan’s Veterans of Foreign Wars. Every sixth and eighth grader from Morgan Middle School submitted a 300 to 400word essay that went with the year’s theme, "My pledge to our Veterans."

Social Studies teachers reviewed all the submission, evaluating the content for flow, grammar, and length. Teacher Aaron Croft said he picked 10-eighth grade essays and passed them to ELA teachers Terri Christensen and Deborah Schroader who selected the winners. Sixth grade teachers also selected a winner.

The eighth-grade winner was Caleb Stephens with Abbie Hatch winning for the sixth grade.

Principal Michelle Morrell then passed the submissions to the VFW officers. Winners from both Morgan Middle School and Morgan High School will be announced Dec. 6 at the VFW Christmas event. Winners from the local level will be sent on to a national level .

MY PLEDGE TO THE VETERANS

By: Caleb Stephens

I PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG OF THE

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND TO THE REPUBLIC FOR WHICH IT STANDS ONE NATION UNDER GOD INDIVISIBLE, WITH LIBERTY AND JUSTICE FOR ALL.

Have you ever heard this pledge of allegiance and actually thought of what it means? If you haven't then I want you to think of what you are doing right now. Where are you right now?

How are you unique? Some people don't get the same things you have. Some people are not allowed to do the things you do. We have freedom. We can choose. How we got this freedom is something very special. It did not just show up one day. People fought for us. They risked their lives for us. There have been many wars in history. The two biggest wars we have had are WWI and WWII. My great grandpa was in WWII. He was in the navy and his assignment was to serve on the USS LST 477. This ship had 111 crewmen on board at the end of 1944. The USS LST 477 was hit by a suicide bomber. MY great grandpa survived although he was in the hospital for a while. My great grandma thought he was dead because she saw that the USS LST 477 was hit, in the news. She did not hear from him for a while after she saw that arti cle. It was something really hard for both of them. War is a hard thing for anyone. I am so thankful for the people who fought for our rights. They went through physical pain and mental pain. My pledge to the veterans is to always respect them and love them. I may not know all of them but I still love them and care for them.

The pledge of allegiance is something special. It will always remind us of the ones who fought for us. I am so grateful for my ancestors and the other people who fought for us.

WHAT TO WATCH

MY PLEDGE TO OUR VETERANS

By: Abbi Hatch

What is a pledge? When I first thought about saying a pledge or writing about the subject, I thought that it was just something that you say to be respectful. Now according to the Cambridge Dictionary, a pledge is, "A serious or formal prom ise". This means that when you make a pledge, you should be willing to follow through on your promise.

Have you ever gone to an event where "The Star-Span gled Banner", our country's national anthem, was being played and someone didn't stand, or they were kneeling, or maybe someone didn't put their hand on their heart? I have seen this a couple of times and it makes me wonder why they do this. Don't they realize that by doing these things, they are not giv ing the proper respect to the people that have risked their lives countless times so that they even have a chance to live? Even though some people have decided that this is okay, I know that we should always be respectful during our national anthem and especially grateful to our veterans.

As part of my pledge to our veterans, I pledge to be re spectful during our national anthem and remember the peo ple who fought for our freedom. I think that this is especially important because it shows our gratitude to many people who have provided us with great opportunities through outstanding bravery and service, not only to our country, but to us as individ uals too.

Another way I think we can thank veterans is by being a good citizen and using what they gave us to do good. This can include, participating in our government, using our ability to vote, keeping our country clean, and making good choices. So, the other part of my pledge is to always try and be a good citi zen and remember the things that people risked their lives for. Through this pledge, I hope our veterans know how much I appreciate their sacrifices and bravery. Without them we wouldn't have the freedom and gifts that we have today. I would like to end by thanking them for the opportunity to live in a free land.

A variety of Christmas cheer in delightful new holiday movies

By Jenniffer Wardell The Movie Guru

The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special

revelations. Both the Knowhere pur chase and another, bigger surprise are unique to the special. You didn’t miss hearing about them somewhere else.

(Disney+)

If you like the movie version of the Guardians of the Galaxy, you’re going to love their Christmas special.

The 45-minute program is an adorable, ridiculous, warm-hearted love letter to the Guardians, Christ mas, and the power of family. It’ll be confusing if you haven’t seen both the previous movies, and you might not be prepared for some of the silliness. If you have, though, this is a delight not to be missed.

The special starts sometime after the Guardians last appeared in “Thor: Love and Thunder,” with the group having recently bought the floating space city of Knowhere. Though telling you more would deprive you of some of the special’s fun, I will say not to worry about unexpected plot

With the special itself, there are so many little details you might want to watch it twice to make sure you don’t miss anything. There’s even a fun little bit at the end of the credits, one last present from the strangest, most adorable found family in all the MCU.

Christmas With You (Netflix)

Sometimes the familiar is exactly what you need during the holidays.

The best of Netflix’s current crop of new Hallmark-style movies is “Christmas With You,” starring Fred die Prinze Jr. and Aimee Garcia.

It’s a sweet romance with a strong family element and some nice His panic cultural representation. There are no surprises here, but if you’re in the right mood it’s as warm and com forting as a Christmas cookie.

In the movie, Garcia is a singer

and dancer who’s being pushed to write a new hit single for Christ mas. Unable to find inspiration, she surprises one of her fans whose dad just happens to do a little amateur songwriting himself. When the family convinces her to stay for Christmas, she might just find this is the harmony she’s been looking for.

The movie is structured around Hispanic culture, with a quinceañera serving as one of the main events in the movie. The cast is nearly all His panic as well, with performances that are surprisingly satisfying across the board. All in all, it’s a sweet, comfort ingly familiar holiday treat.

Violent Night (in theaters)

If you genuinely love the spirit of Christmas, but also really like cre ative holiday-themed violence, then you’ve got to see “Violent Night.”

The movie is a delightful, absurd, and somehow really sweet mashup of a heartwarming Christmas movie and a really bloody action flick. The

key to its charm is the wholehearted embrace of both halves of its really strange personality. It’s dedicated to figuring out how many ways you can use Christmas paraphernalia to kill people, but it’s just as intense in its belief in magic and the true spirit of Christmas.

Oh, and David Harbour is the literal, actual Santa.

Is it foul-mouthed? Absolutely. Is there a lot of gore? Most definitely. But there’s also several genuinely heartwarming moments, including a couple of really good redemption arcs, and even a good message about what matters most. What more could you ask for in a Christmas movie?

Jenniffer Wardell is an award-winning movie critic and member of the Utah Film Critics Association. Find her on Twitter at @wardellwriter or drop her a line at themovieguruslc@gmail.com. l

Credit for photo ©Disney/Marvel

SPORTS

Girl’s Basketball gets the edge over Green Canyon in season opener

By Jackson Woolsey

It’s basketball season and teams across the state have hit the hardwood to begin the 2022/23 season. Two years ago the Lady Trojans won a hard fought battle for the 3A championship to bring the trophy back to morgan. Last season the pressure was on as they had the challenge of defending their title. The team met the Emery Spartans in the quarterfinals at Weber State University. That game was as tense as it could have been because Emery had ice in their veins after their loss to the Trojans in the previous championship game. Morgan came out on top to advance to the semifinal against Judge Memorial, then fell short to the Bulldogs who later won the state title for the first time in program history. All in all the team had a successful season finishing in the third spot in 3A.

Morgan looks to rely on a few returning players as well as some new comers. Elena Birkeland, Alyvia Jaffa, and Emory Morrell are key returning players that the coaching staff can look to for success on offense and defense.

Led by head coach Sterling Mack, the team faced a tough Green Canyon squad on Tuesday, Nov. 22. The Wolves are a strong force in the 4A classifica tion, finishing in the top three in last year's state tournament so the Trojans knew they had a tough task to open the season and they showed no fear. The opening quarter was a defensive battle as both teams played tenacious defense to limit the other's offense. Morgan's full-court pressure on defense frustrated the Wolves forcing them into turnovers. Senior Elena Birkeland got off to a hot start knocking down two shots from beyond the arc in the quarter. Each team

sat at 15 a piece to end the first quarter of play.

At the end of the first half, the Lady Trojans were hopeful as they walked into the locker room up by three. After halftime, the team extended their lead to nine to open the fourth and final quarter. In the fourth, each team traded baskets back and forth leading to a thrilling

BRAIN TEASERS

final seconds of regulation. With 3.7 seconds left the game was tied at 51, junior Alyvia Jaffa was fouled on the block sending her to the free throw line. Jaffa was able to sink the first shot to put Morgan up by one. The final score was 52-51 as Green Canyon senior and University of Wyoming commit, Maren McKenna came up short with a

halfcourt heave at the buzzer giving the Trojans the win.

Birkeland led the squad with 24 points, 5 three pointers, 8 steals and a block. Jaffa chipped in with 17 points and led the team in rebounds pulling down 7 boards in the game.

Up next for the Lady Trojans is the Union Cougars. l

Photo by MAXPREP

Reports conclude that suicide is higher in women in Utah than men due to several factors

By Alisha Copfer

that more women than men attempt suicide in Utah. And, due to experience only women can have, such as hormonal fluctuations, women are more at risk to have suicidal tendencies and be more susceptible to mental illness.

In 2020, suicide was the 12th leading cause of death in the U.S. In Utah, it was the eighth highest cause of death. Recently published in a research snapshot by the Utah Women and Leadership Project, it is stated that suicide is a significant public health problem that is considered prevent able.

“Mental health has always been in my mind,” said Cindy Jenkins, an Extension Assistant Professor at Utah State Univer

Monday

The Vow HBO 7 p.m.

This gripping, six-part true crime docu series reaches its conclusion when its final episode airs this evening. After sur vivors of his abuse come forward to deliver victim impact statements, Keith Raniere is found guilty on all charges.

NCIS: Hawai’i

(2) KUTV 9 p.m.

Continuing its second season in another new episode, this “NCIS” spi noff, set on Hawaii’s big island, follows Special Agent Jane Tennant (Vanessa Lachey) and her team at the Pearl Harbor Field Office as they solve crimes involving military personnel.

Tuesday FBI: International

(2) KUTV 8 p.m.

Luke Kleintank, Heida Reed and Carter Redwood star in a new episode of this hit procedural spinoff. In order to keep the citizens of the United States safe, international agents go to extreme lengths to capture fugitives at large anywhere in the world.

New Amsterdam

(5) KSL 9 p.m.

Based on Eric Manheimer’s novel “Twelve Patients: Life and Death at Bellevue Hospital,” this hit medical dra ma’s fifth season continues tonight. Ryan Eggold, Janet Montgomery and Jocko Sims return to star alongside new cast member Sandra Mae Frank.

Wednesday

Shaq HBO 7 p.m.

This new, four-part docuseries, detail ing the life and career of NBA Hall of Famer Shaquille O’Neal, premieres this evening. The series starts off with the origin of Shaq’s enduring legend, from growing up in a military household to his NBA stardom.

Big Sky (4) KTVX 9 p.m.

Kylie Bunbury and Katheryn Winnick star as a private investigator and a for mer detective in an episode of this pro cedural drama set in Montana. Jenson Ackles joins the cast as Sheriff Beau Arlen, helping the duo solve crime in the small town of Helena.

Thursday

The Masked Singer (13) KSTU 7 p.m.

Season 8 of this hit singing competi tion continues in a new episode. Ken

sity who works with the Utah Women and Leadership project. “Several years ago, I started to recognize this big thing in our community, I saw some statistics and recognized that I wasn’t alone.”

The Utah Women and Leadership Project recently hosted a podcast featuring Jenkins along with Dr. Kristy Hodson, a faculty member at Western Governors University in the College of Health Pro fession, and Chloe Bhowmick, a licensed clinical psychologist who works at The Partridge Group. This podcast was hosted by Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Direc tor of the Utah Women and Leadership Project.

The podcast, titled “Suicide Among Utah Girls and Women,” covered the statistics reported in the research snapshot as well as the conversation surrounding the subject of suicide. “The number one

thing we can do is to not glamorize it,” said Jenkins. “Don’t make it normal; don’t make it something where you idealize these people.”

The snapshot explains, “Reduce stig ma around suicidality and mental health issues and normalize seeking help.” The research shows that, “when individuals feel they are a part of a community, it can create a sense of belonging and connected ness which can serve as a protective factor against suicide.”

When asked why the topic of suicide was an interest, Bhowmick said, “I've been passionate about psychological research and it is important for the lay person to understand this in a way that makes sense to them and that they can relate this back to them.” She also said that society needs to understand that social and cultural factors are just as significant to

TELEVISION

Jeong, Robin Thicke, Jenny McCarthyWahlberg and Nicole Scherzinger once again guess the identities of elaborately costumed celebrities who perform and give clues about themselves.

Ghosts (2) KUTV 7:30 p.m.

Rose McIver and Utkarsh Ambudkar star in this American remake of the British sitcom. This episode continues to follow the couple as they fix up their newly inherited estate while dealing with a group of eccentric ghosts that also inhabit the home.

Friday

The Batman HBO 1:10 p.m.

This first Batman film to star Robert Pattinson as the legendary caped cru sader follows the hero as he investigates a serial killer who appears to be targeting Gotham’s elite. He soon finds a series of eerie messages left behind. Zoë Kravitz also stars.

The Princess Bride AMC 4 p.m.

A not-so-typical fairy tale comes to life for a sick boy whose grandfather reads to him in this comedy classic based on the novel of the same name. A pirate (Cary Elwes) rushes to rescue his lost love (Robin Wright) from the clutches of an evil prince.

The Late Show With Stephen Col bert (2) KUTV 10:35 p.m.

Host Stephen Colbert entertains night owls with his sharp wit and willingness to get a little bit silly in this talk show at the Ed Sullivan Theater. He helps viewers digest news and political happenings, and earned the show a Peabody Award in 2020.

Saturday

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug HBO 9:45 a.m.

Bilbo Baggins (Martin Freeman) continues on his grand adventure in this film trilogy’s second install ment. Directed by Peter Jackson, this adventure chronicles Bilbo’s

GUIDE

efforts to reclaim Erebor. Ian McKellen returns to his role as Gandalf the Grey.

Home Alone FX 4 p.m.

This classic holiday film and its sequel air today, though we hope no kid faces the same troubles as Kevin (Macaulay Culkin) this Christmas. When his family leaves for Paris in a frenzy, Kevin’s left behind and forced to defend the home from burglars.

Everything Everywhere All at Once SHOW 7 p.m.

Michelle Yeoh stars as Evelyn Quan Wang, a Chinese immigrant in the United States, who must travel to alternate dimensions and fight bizarre dangers in order to save the world following a rup ture in linear reality. Stephanie Hsu and Jamie Lee Curtis star.

Sunday Figure Skating

(5) KSL 1:30 p.m.

This international, senior-level figure skating competition, the sixth event of the ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating series, airs live from the Espoo Metro Areena in Espoo, Finland, this afternoon. It is the replacement event for Rostelecom Cup.

The White Lotus HBO 7 p.m.

The drama continues to unfold in Sicily in a new episode of this hit dramedy series. Hotel manager Valentina (Sabrina Impacciatore), her staff and guests deal with life over the course of a week at the luxury resort. Jennifer Coolidge stars.

Spector SHOW 7 p.m.

Lana Clarkson’s murder case ends in a mistrial when the jury can’t reach a unani mous decision in a new episode of this

mental health.

As a whole, suicide can take a toll on individuals, families and communities. Utah has several programs and resources to reduce suicide rates and support those who are at risk. The Utah Women and Leadership states that these programs include the Live On Campaign, the Utah Suicide Prevention Coalition and the Huntsman Mental Health Institute.

Some of the suicide risk factors include social isolation, financial prob lems, job problems or loss, impulsive or aggressive tendencies, mental illness and relationship problems. More information can be found by reading the research snap shot at usu.edu/uwlp/files/snapshot/43. pdf as well as connecting with the Utah Women and Leadership project at utwom en.org. l

Celebrity Profile

By Dana Simpson TV Media

A highly recognizable face on both stage and screen, of pro ductions big and small, is that of Welsh actor Sir Jonathan Pryce. Often cast in powerful or memorable roles that require an abundance of gravitas and precision, Pryce returns to Season 2 of “Slow Horses,” the Apple TV drama series making its sophomore-season debut Friday, Dec. 2, on the streamer. Hailing from the small, picturesque town of Holywell, in Wales’ Flintshire County, Jonathan Pryce was born June 1, 1947, to a coal miner and his wife, who owned the local general store. Despite his humble upbringing, Pryce has developed high aspirations in the acting world from a young age, and he ultimately left Wales for London as a teenager to pursue act ing as a vocation by attending the city’s prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, commonly known by the acronym RADA.

Upon graduation in 1971, Pryce began his career working for Liverpool’s Everyman Theatre, a wellregarded institution both at the time and still today. Pryce would go on to perform in such stage productions as Shakespeare’s “Hamlet,” “The Merchant of Venice,” “The Taming of the Shrew” and “King Lear,” as well as other notable classics “Miss Saigon,” “Oliver,” “Comedians” and “The Goat or Who Is Sylvia?”

On the screen-acting side of the business, Pryce’s career has been equally impressive. With a total of 132 credits to his resume (including projects labeled as in “post-produc tion”), according to IMDb, Pryce may be best known for his recent role as Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio/Pope Francis in “The Two Popes” (2019), a 20-episode arc as Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, in Netflix’s “The Crown” or 12 episodes as the High Sparrow in HBO’s fantasy sensation “Game of Thrones.”

convinces her friend (Freida Pinto) to play the role of his ideal match.