The Morgan County News | May 12, 2023

MORGAN COUNTY NEWS

National memorial honors fallen firefighters

King Charles III honored at Coronation Ceremony

For the 20th time, Mountain Green Fire Chief Brian Brendel (left) once again led the Firefighters Memorial Pipes and Drums at the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service in Emmitsburg, Maryland. The ceremony took place Sunday, May 7, 2023 at the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial. Chief Brendel has been attending the Memorial service with firefighter pipe and drum bands since 1993 and in 2003 was chosen Lead Drum Major of the combined firefighter bagpipe band with membership from across the United States.

The Utah contingent was at the Memorial this year to honor Unified Fire Authority Engineer Chris Cage, who had responded to the 9/11 attack with Utah USAR Task Force 1 and developed 9/11 related cancer. Each year the National Fallen Firefighter service adds to the National Memorial the names of Firefighters who died in the line of duty. This year, 144 Firefighters were honored, 79 who died in 2022, and 65 who died in

previous years. Chief Brendel also leads the Unified Fire Authority of Greater Salt Lake's Pipes and Drums, and the Utah Firefighters' Emerald Society Pipes and Drums, representing all of Utah at Line-of-Duty First Responder memorial services.

Photos are courtesy of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation

The Morgan Family Adventure: Making Tracks comes to Morgan

By Ethan Hoffmann

L ast month was the first day of The Morgan Family Adventure. Local families gathered at Riverside Park, Morgan for a free event taught by Making Tracks Earth Education. The goal of Making Tracks is to inspire confidence and creativity through survival skills and Earth Education. Participants got to explore nature and learn survival skills such as fire by friction, primitive weaponry (axe throwing and bow shooting), ropemaking, and using stone tools. Exciting games were played and everyone had an opportunity to have fun, while learning and connecting with nature

The instructor, Erik Rasmussen, started Making Tracks in the fourth quarter of 2016 Rasmus -

sen got his degree in park recreation and tourism at the University of Utah and he also studied entrepreneurship during college. He decided to go into parks and recreation because he had been studying primitive technology and survival skills since he was seven years old. Additionally, he started teaching about the subject when he was thirteen. Rasmussen has also helped recruit contestants for the reality survival competition series “Alone” and is good friends with some of the participants; Dave Nessia, Alan Kay, Sam Larson, Nicole Apelian, and Carleigh Fairchild to

TRACKS on page 2

The coronation of Charles III and his wife, Camilla, took place in London on Saturday as the pair were ordained as the king and queen of the United Kingdom. On May 6, a crowd of over 2000 guests filed into Westminster Abbey, alongside the Royal family, to see the historic events take place. The crowning of the new sovereigns was the first coronation to take place in 70 years since the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. King Charles III took The Oath and offered several prayers throughout the ceremony. The Queen’s coronation took place after her husband’s where she was likewise anointed, and then presented with the Queen’s Ring and Queen Mary’s Crown. At the conclusion of the coronation, the King and Queen led the Coronation Procession.

2nd grader rescued after going missing during a family camping trip

Second grader Nante Niemi was finally located on Monday, sheltering under a log in Porcupine Mountain Wilderness State Park in Michigan. The eight year old was in Michigan on a camping trip when he got separated from his family while he was gathering firewood. Niemi found shelter underneath a tree log that protected him from the elements. Volunteer rescue units searched a 40-square-mile area surrounding the family’s campground. Rescuers searching the area found footprints, and later they heard the young boy yelling. Niemi was found safe and sound two miles from their camp and reunited with his family.

Bystander saves runaway baby stroller from entering traffic

In California, a bystander is being praised for his role in saving a young child whose stroller was nearly blown into traffic by a gust of wind. The child’s great aunt had gotten the child out of the car into the stroller, and then turned back to grab something else from inside the car. Within those few seconds, a large gust of wind caught the stroller, and it began to roll toward a traffic filled street. She ran to try and catch the baby stroller, but tripped and watched helplessly as she stumbled after the runaway stroller. Thankfully, a bystander, Ron Nessman was able to step in. Video surveillance captured the near-disastrous event and Nessman’s amazing heroics. Nessman who was sitting on a bench nearby heard the commotion as the child’s great aunt yelled out for help. He jumped into action and caught the stroller mere feet from entering the busy street.

MHS Coach named Assistant Athletic Director

Basketball coach Brad Matthews takes on new role.

ERIK, THE OWNER OF MAKING TRACKS, teaches students how to make fire using friction. Courtesy photo

Morgan County businesses get state grants to grow their business

By Linda Petersen

Six Morgan County businesses have been awarded state grants to help them with economic development. This year a total of $50,000 was available for Morgan businesses under the Rural Economic Opportunity grant Part A, compared to $30,000 last year, County Commissioner Blaine Fackrell told his peers at the May 3, county commission meeting.

“This is not through any of our county funds; it is only through that economic opportunity grant,” he said. This grant program for small businesses originated because prior to giving the counties these funds the state had a fast-track grant program which Morgan County businesses participated in more than any other county, Andrew Willis Director of the small business development center at Davis Tech Business Resource Center told the commissioners. “They were shocked to see what the business cli -

TRACKS from page 1

name a few.

Making Tracks started building software for survival skills instructors to make it easier and more efficient for them to access clientele and host and run classes. “We’re an outdoor school but we are also decentralized.” commented Rasmussen “We don’t have one location that we teach from. Rather, we engineered a philosophy/ methodology that every instructor has to learn and adhere to during programs.” The structure of this philosophy has a couple of elements to it, but the overarching goal of earth education is to get kids outside and off of screens.

Every instructor has their own teaching style; the instructors aren’t all the same and they have different backgrounds. However, the Making Tracks courses will always consist of a combination of these three things: sitspot, survival skills, and wandering. In order to teach, the instructors must be proficient with all three. Sitspot is about picking a place you can go sit in nature for a minimum of twenty minutes a day, even if it’s in your own backyard. It’s all about getting in tune with your senses and learning to quiet your mind. Then sitspot is paired with survival skills such as making a fire with sticks, flintknapping an arrowhead, hunting/trapping, tracking animals, and identifying various medicinal plants.

The class as a whole is heavily tailored to the students participating. The material is customized to the students and it isn’t standardized to a specific curriculum. “For example, If they want to learn about making a fire we start at the beginning.” said Rasmussen. “Making fire is a step-by-step

mate was like in Morgan County.”

Grant recipients were chosen by a committee that includes Willis and Fackrell.

“This is not just going to line their pockets, the businesses, because a business that survives and flourishes in Morgan County, we have a tax base for,” Fackrell said, referring to the sales taxes those businesses would generate. “Plus, it might give more opportunities for more employees also. The main reason for this is to help bring in more money into our county.’

The grants are intended for existing businesses that are in a position to use the funds to accelerate their growth rather than new startups without a history of sales.

The businesses that have qualified for the grant funding are using it in various ways. Morgan Gym and Mountain Green gym will receive $6,000 with the focus on the Morgan Gym. Marina Eldridge hopes that the

improved website will allow them to attract more customers and enable them to add more group classes, along with increased sales and hiring more fitness professionals.

Shirts to a T will use the $12,250 it has been granted to purchase a new embroidery machine and upgrade its website. They hope this increased production capacity will lead to an increase in sales and create at least two more jobs, and that the upgraded website will result in an improved online experience for customers.

Brighten Blades will receive $5,200 to fund additional marketing support. They have contracted with local businesses for these services so the grant funding will help with their sales and profit too.

Higbee Honey will purchase 64 new hives from Californian almond groves with the $11,550 they will receive. Owner Michael Higbee plans to immediately split those hives into 128 new hives which he intends to split

over the summer until he reaches 300 hives. This is expected to significantly increase sales and provide more local jobs.

The $5,000 that SOS Drive through receives will help develop an outdoor patio and seating area for the drive through and food trucks. Which they hope will increase customers and sales.

Phoenix House in Mountain Green will receive $10,000 for expanded prep space, dry and cold storage, improved signage and expanded parking, along with funding for direct amil pieces to Mountain Green Residents many of whom do not know that the business is there.

“For small businesses this is really exciting to see,” Commissioner Jared Anderson said. “First of all, these dollars are appropriated for this and not to be used for roads or other things, so I think it’s just an exciting process. l

“

night and they were right there to help us get the water shut off and to help us get all the water out and dried. They were both professional, communication was great and they were thorough.I would recommend them to anyone! ” —Anna

process. Fire is the final destination, but before you can reach it you must know how to use a knife to carve and be able to do it safely. Then we will teach you about fire: fire is a hazard, fire is a tool, etc. Then we start using bow drill kits and teach students how fire can be made with friction.” From that point, the instructors can expand on what’s already been taught.

“A big part of survival skills is learning basic outdoor etiquette.” Rasmussen emphasized. “Everyone leaves a carbon footprint and when you hang out with an experienced survivalist, you learn that there is absolutely no way to leave no trace. If we are going to leave a trace we need to learn how to make good ones and become stewards and caretakers of the land. The reason we are called ‘Making Tracks’ is because we want people

to interact with the world in a way in which they can leave healthy tracks on this earth.”

The last key component is wandering. To enjoy the outdoors, the wanderer’s mindset is critical. This mindset is simple: be in nature, be present, have fun, and be happy. “If hiking a mountain is your goal, don’t worry about reaching your final destination right away.” Rasmussen instructed. “If you find yourself watching the wildlife or admiring tracks you come across, that's totally okay. Just make sure you use the opportunities that arise to appreciate the world around you.”

All of the programs offered by Making Tracks are listed on their website and a description is provided for each. There will be another free event at Riverside Park on May 19

from 4-6 p.m. In addition, Making Tracks is hoping to provide more outdoor and survival skill classes in Morgan in the coming year. These classes will be intended for kids ages 5-18 and will take place once a week; most likely on Friday afternoons after school hours. Any student under seven isn’t quite ready to use a knife yet but they will be welcome to attend as long as a parent is with them. Nature is for everyone. To sign up for the upcoming class this month, register on their website below. If you are interested in Making Tracks, make sure to check out the link to their discord. https://www.makingtracks.co/ https://discord.gg/jccnuXG5rw

Robert and Mark were great! We had pipes burst at

ONE OF THE students tries out a sling shot.

VARIOUS ITEMS THAT Erik has made, some of which participants might have the opportunity to make during the course.

Morgan Valley Arts Council Sponsors the choral event ‘Lamb of God’

The Morgan Valley Arts Council mission is to promote and celebrate the arts in Morgan County by bringing together members of the community from music and theatre to artwork and photography.

On April 30, the Morgan Valley Orchestra and Morgan Valley Singers teamed up with the support of the arts council to perform the choral event,

“Lamb of God” at Morgan High School. Emily Pfeifer was the conductor of the talented musicians, with Abby Beattie as the concertmaster. Doug Ball, was invited to be the cello soloist and portray the role of the Savior. Lisa Wright and Karl Reeder were the Narrators. Harrison Farmer ran the sound and lights for the performance. l

MORGAN VALLEY CHAMBER ORCHESTRA, Morgan Valley Chamber Singers under the direction of Emily Pfiefer.

GUEST PERFORMER DOUG BALL, cello soloist, portrays the role of the Savior through the beautiful and rich sounds of his instrument.

ABBY BEATTIE, CONCERTMASTER, leads the Morgan Valley Chamber Orchestra.

SEVERAL MEMBER OF THE Morgan Valley Chamber Singers sing “The Resurrection” from Rob Gardner’s Lamb of God.

KENNAN THOMPSON, Band Director at Mountain Green Middle School, plays timpani.

RUDY CORDEIRO, Morgan High School Orchestra Teacher and Studio Director at Morgan’s The Piano Place, leads the Second Violins.

MORGAN POLL sings “Make Me Whole” as she portrays Martha, friend to Jesus and sister of Mary and Lazarus.

KELTI PALMER, portraying Mary Magdalene, sings “The Resurrection” with the Morgan Valley Chamber Orchestra and Singers. NARRATORS Karl Reeder and Lisa Wright.

A LOOK BACK

Local ladies donate quilts to help those in need

By Olivia Rees

In April, local ladies banded together to create quilts to donate to the local departments to distribute in times of need. Doris Thurgood played a crucial role in this donation as she organized the group and donated all the batting used to create the quilts. Feeling that most goods are made out of the country, Thurgood wanted to have something created and distributed here in the local community. Armed with material and recruiting acquaintances here in town, Thurgood got to work.

Speaking for the group, Thurgood shared, “We are very appreciative of everything the Sheriff’s Department, the Fire Department, and Emergency Services do for the people of our community. This is just our way of saying thank you, you are the best.”

During accidents, when someone in shock, or during similar scenarios is when the Sherriff’s department sees fit to use the quilts. Since the recent donation, only a couple have been handed out since there have not been many accidents. While it is not the first time quilts have been donated, Sheriff Corey Stark commented, “It is not the first time because we have almost always had quilts in the back due to these kind ladies. I appreciate the citizens of Morgan County who try to comfort people who are distressed.”

Praising the other ladies who helped make this recent donation possible, Thurgood commented, “It was a group effort, and it took a lot of us to complete the project.” Thurgood attributed praise saying that Lila Hardy sewed the bindings on nearly every quilt with Colleen Mickelson, Susan Skeen, Cissy Toone, and Merle Durant along with others in the community pitching in to help. When one of the departments needs more, Thurgood has approximately 50 more quilts ready to tie!

Hardy enjoyed the fun fabrics handpicked by Thurgood and said, “I hope they will be enjoyed by those in need. It is fun to give service.”

Durrant shared that she felt that most of the other ladies did more than her,

but cutting and sewing the strips for the binding, felt sure that the people appreciated the quilts. Skeen said, “I enjoy being part of the Morgan Senior Center Quilting Group. We have been able to do quilts for the Sheriff’s Office to take in the emergency ambulance vehicles. It is fun to do quilts and know they can be used by those in need.”

For Thurgood, quilting is a way to share love. “Every quilt I make, either tied or quilted, is done with love and care,” emphasized Thurgood. “I always want the person receiving them to know how much I enjoy doing this.”

Thurgood originally started quilting about 35 years ago because, she said, “I love to take pieces of fabric, cut them up and make something beautiful.” Making beautiful things and donating them is something Thurgood has done throughout the years to many different people and organizations. “About 20 years ago,” explained Thurgood, “some local ladies and I made quilts for the Morgan County Emergency Department. They really appreciated them, and we understood they were running out of quilts. So, we decided it was time to make some more.” Most the quilts Thurgood makes are given away. As a member of the Executive Board for Primary Children’s Hospital, Thurgood has donated many quilts to the hospital. At the hospital, the quilts are either given to the children or sold with 100% of the proceeds going towards the hospital. “I give quilts to many people, and I know they are appreciated. I try and give a quilt to the young women in my ward when they either graduate or get married. Just to see their faces makes if all worthwhile.”

“I am so grateful that Doris reached out to share such an amazing gift to those in need. A lot of times in Emergency Situations we meet people at their lowest point in their lives. It is nice to have some thing to give them that was hand made by some one who truly cares,” shared Austin Turner, the Morgan County Emergency Manager. “We are really grateful to all the ladies who hand made these quilts. I know they will be put to good use and loved by whomever receives one.” l

BRAIN TEASERS

DORIS THURGOOD, Susanne Skeen, Merle Durrant and Lila Hardy share their talents and compassion with the people in the Morgan Valley.

Courtesy photos

MERLE DURRANT, Doris Thurgood and Lila Hardy present quilts to the Sheriff’s Department’s Austin Turner, Cory Stark and Jim Wagner.

Coach Brad Matthews to fill a new lane

Named as new Assistant Athletic Director

By Liisa London Mecham

When running a fast break, one player takes the ball down and the other two fill the lanes on each side. For the past 22 years, Coach Brad Matthews has watched his Morgan players fill lanes as they ran the fast break for the Trojans, and he understands each role perfectly. In February, Matthews coached his last game for Morgan and has been transitioning into a new role as Assistant Athletic Director for Morgan High, filling a new lane in the fast break of Morgan Athletics.

“I am excited for the opportunity to work closely with the Athletic Department at Morgan High School. I will be involved in a lot of the day-today responsibilities that go into making sure the athletics at the school are organized and running well and also working closely with all the coaches and players,” he explained.

Matthews moved to Morgan in August 2001 when he took his first

teaching position at Morgan Middle School. Originally from Paris, Idaho, Matthews shared, “Morgan was one of the few school districts that I didn’t apply to for a job out of college, but the current superintendent, Ron Wolfe, knew me from Paris and his daughter graduated with me from Utah State.”

“At graduation commencement, Dr. Wolfe heard my name called and noticed my minor was teaching business. He called and asked me if I would want to interview for an opening teaching business at Morgan Middle School. I interviewed and have been here since.”

Matthews coached at Morgan High for 22 years and worked as a coach for two years before that at Box Elder High while he did his student teaching. He was a head basketball coach at Morgan for 16 years, eight years with the girls and eight years with the boys. In 2019, his boys’ team brought home Morgan’s fourth boys’ basketball state title, adding to the first state championship in 1974 under coach Ron Abegglen and the second and third titles in 2013 and 204 under Jim Wiscombe. During his tenure, Mattthews also coached football for 21 years and track for “three or four.”

As he hangs up his coaching whistle, Matthews feels his biggest initial challenge will be “to not be coaching.”

“I have coached basketball for the past 24 years. It has been a huge part of my life, and I am going to miss it. Being new to the AD job I am sure there are many challenges that I will face, but I am ready for the new challenge,” he detailed.”

He leaves the court with a lot of memories from games, players and basketball seasons. “My favorite memories will always be of my players. I love them all. Some of them caused my baldness, but I wouldn’t trade the time I had with them. They are great young kids who have gone on to do great things.”

One of the things that Matthews won’t miss about coaching is dealing with hard losses, but on the other hand, he will “miss that special bond that exists between a player and coach,” he explained. “I am also going to miss associating with my assistant coaches. They are all amazing people.”

Luckily for Matthews, he won’t be leaving MHS Athletics behind. He is excited to expand his sphere beyond the gym and basketball court

and is looking forward to “working with the current athletic department staff as well as all the coaches and student athletes. It will be a good change for me to have a larger focus of responsibility than just basketball.”

As he assumes his new role, Matthews would like to thank and recognize his wife, Jamie. “She sacrificed and supported me for 24 years. She suffered the disappointments and experienced the joys and successes right along with me. She has always been my biggest fan, and I am so grateful for her and her support. She has always been my biggest fan, and I am so grateful for her and her support.”

When Matthews moved to Morgan in 2001, he was returning to the roots planted here by his 4th great-grandfather, Charles Sreeve Peterson, who founded Morgan around 1854. “When I came to Morgan, it was like I just moved back home.”

Morgan High basketball has benefited greatly from Coach Matthews finding his way back “home” to Morgan, and the entire athletic department looks to reap rewards from his continued role in Trojan athletics.

Parents in Morgan attend presentation about social media safety

By Verlene Johnson

Internet safety is a top priority within Morgan County School District. Teachers, staff and other personnel do everything they can to keep students safe at school and while they are on their Chromebooks; however, it is up to parents to do what they can to keep their students safe outside of school when they are on personal devices.

In conjunction with the Weber/Morgan Health Department, the district has provided three opportunities for parents and one for teachers to learn more about

keeping children safe on the internet.

Detectives Dustin Stewart and Sean Endsley from Weber County Sheriff’s Office work hard to keep children in Weber and Morgan County from encountering child predators. During one of the Asynchronous Days during the school year, teachers were invited to the presentation at the high school presented by Detectives Stewart and Endsley. Parents have been invited three times, along with their students, to the presentation in recent months.

The detectives encourage all parents to know what apps are on their child/ teen’s personal devices and be aware

of how each one works. Most apps for social interactions are a breeding ground for sexual predators who will groom young people to trust them or to convince them they are also a child or a teen.

During their presentation, the detectives talk about prevention and intervention. Following is a list of things children and teens who are on social media need to be aware of: Do not send explicit pictures to anyone. Even if you think you know the person. Do not accept friend requests from strangers. Do not give out any personal information. Keep all social media accounts private.

Turn “Location Data” off or “Only allow while using.”

Once a parent discovers, or even suspects their child has encountered a child predator, there are intervention steps to be taken. The victim must report immediately to law enforcement. They must be honest about what they have shared. Stop communication immediately. Start documenting. Do not delete any evidence such as messages, photos and accounts.

Parents are encouraged to discuss these things with their children.

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BRAD MATTHEWS, CENTER BACK, and his 2023 Morgan High Basketball Team. Matthews was the head boys’ coach at Morgan for eight years and won a state title in 2019.

Photo by Studio One Images

COACH BRAD MATTHEWS with his wife Jamie and their children. Matthews and his family moved to Morgan in 2001 when he took his first teaching job at Morgan Middle School.

Photo Courtesy of Brad Matthews

MHS teams compete at State and Region

By Liisa London Mecham

Soccer advances to semifinals with 5-1 win over Carbon

With a 5-1 win over Carbon in the quarterfinals of the state playoffs, Morgan advanced to a semifinal match up against region foe Ogden on Wednesday, May 10. The winner of this game advanced to the state championship set for Friday, May 12 at America First Field in Sandy.

In the home playoff victory over Carbon Friday, Morgan scored three times in the opening half to take a 3-0 lead before adding two more goals in the second half. They held the Dinos to a single second-half score on a penalty kick late in the game to move closer to their goal of a state title. Scoring in the quarterfinal matchup were Sam Edwards, Beau Johnson, Ty Warner (2), and Jett Beckstrom.

After receiving a bye in the first round, the #4 seeded Trojans mercy ruled Richfield at home Wednesday, May 3. Morgan found the back of the net six times in the opening period and added three more goals to end the Wildcats’ playoff run 9-0.

In the semifinal match up, the Trojans will come up against a familiar Region 13 foe. In their two meetings this year, Morgan lost both games. In their first game, the Trojans fell 2-1 with all scoring coming in the second half. In their recent April 25 match up, Ogden prevailed 2-0. In both games senior goalkeeper Hunter Paskins earned the win while fellow senior Ty Robinson scored a goal each game. Softball advances to 3A State Playoffs with 14-9 win over Ogden

Saturday, May 6 the #7-seeded Lady Trojan softball team traveled to Cedar City for their first round to the playoffs and faced #10 Ogden. Morgan won the game 14-9. In the game sophomore Kaiya Peterson and freshmen Joesi Kelly both hit balls out of the park.

Morgan opened the game with four runs in the first inning to Ogden's single run to take a 4-1 lead into the second inning. In the bottom of the second inning the Trojans added another run and three more in the bottom of the third to begin the fourth period up 8-2.

After a scoreless fourth inning, the Trojans drove in three more runs to Ogden's single run to remain comfortably in command of the game 11-3 to start the sixth. Odgen unleashed their bats in the sixth inning to score six runs and bring the Tigers within three, 11-9.

Three runs by Morgan in the bottom of the 6th put the Lady Trojans up 14-9 when the game ended.

In addition to Peterson’s and Kelly’s home runs, several players recorded doubles: Kelly, Peterson, sophomore Eva Birkeland,senior Tess Polad, sophomore Kasen Ervin, and senior Elena Birkeland. Peterson led with five RBIs, and Kelly followed with three.

Sophomores Callie Averrett and Eva Birkeland split the pitching duties with 66 and 60 pitches respectively. Fellow sophomore Stacey George recorded five putouts while Elena Birkeland tallied a game-high 11. Sophomores Peterson and Lexi Hardman added four putouts each.

Hardman, Averett and Elena Birkeland each recorded a stolen base in the victory.

The Trojans will play in the 3A State Softball Tournament May 11-13 in Spanish Fork. They will open play against the #2 seed Canyon View at 12:15 p.m. Thursday, May 11. The tournament is a true double elimination tournament, and the Trojans will play again on Thursday, if they lose, and will advance and play on Friday with a win.

Boys’ Tennis to play at State May 11-13

Thursday-Saturday, May 11-13, the boys’ tennis team will play in the 3A State Championships at Liberty Park in Salt Lake City. After a third place finish at the Region 13 tournament, the team is looking for a strong showing at

state.

At 1st Singles, Benjamin Hadley earned a #8 seed headed into state, and Ben Poll, 2nd Singles, earned a #6 seed. Trayson Ordyna will represent Morgan at 3rd Singles as the #9 seed. The 1st Doubles team of Carter Bladen and Evan Harris and the 2nd Doubles team of Boston Fuhriman and Dax Helston earned the highest seeds on the team at #4.

The Round of 16 will be played on Thursday with the championships on Saturday.

Top competition at state will come from Rowland Hall, Waterford, and Ogden.

Baseball team finishes season with 3-1 loss

In their play-in game for the 3A State Championship Tournament, the #15 seeded Morgan Trojan baseball team fell 3-1 to the #18 seeded North Sanpete Hawks in Mt. Pleasant Friday, May 5. The loss ends the Trojans’ season with an overall record of 8-15 and a winning 7-5 Region 13 record.

In the final game, North Sanpete drove in a run in the second, third and fourth innings to take a 3-0 before Morgan scored in the bottom of the sixth on an RBI by junior Ryder Waldron. In the game senior, JJ Compton hit a double, and sophomore Camron Talbot scored the lone run. Compton earned a stolen base in the game while senior Gabe Jensen led with 17 putouts followed by two apiece by seniors Eli McKonkie and Trevor DeWitt.

DeWitt pitched his final game for Morgan as the seniors, DeWitt, McConkie, Luke Harris, Payton Hatt and Compton, ended their careers as Morgan High baseball players. Girls Golf takes to heads to State at Glendale Golf Course

After winning the Region 13 title and holding the #1 ranking in 3A, the Morgan golf team has been busy preparing for state that was held on Wednesday-Thursday, May 10-11, at Glendale Golf Course in Salt Lake City. Senior Ellie DeMond, top ranked 3A player, and fellow senior Jailee Snow, #3 in 3A, who both signed to play college golf at Westminster College in Salt Lake, will lead their team in their bid for their first state championship in school history after finishing second to Richfield for five consecutive years. Kia Christiansen, Jane Poll, Camden Smith and Kenadee Benson round out the team who will take to the course seeking Morgan’s first girls’ golf state championship.

Track and Field: Tiger Open, BYU Invitational and hosting Region 13 Championships

In a late change of venue due to technical difficulties at the Ogden High track, Morgan will now host the Region 13 Championships Thursday and Friday, May 11 and 12. Competition will begin each day at 4 pm. Morgan, who generally qualifies more athletes for state than any other 3A school, will play host to Ogden, Grantsville, Ben Lomond, Layton Christian, and South Summit. The top four individuals and relay teams in each event will advance to the state championships at BYU May 19-20. Individuals who have hit a state qualifying mark at an earlier invitational will also have the opportunity to compete at state.

The Morgan Track and Field Team competed at the BYU Invitational last weekend. The girls’ team earned third place in the 1A-3A team competition with 38 points, just one point behind second-place North Sevier and four points behind first-place Juan Diego (42). The boys’ team finished in a tie for sixth place with Delta (34 points) behind first place Sugar-Salem (ID) (76), Evanston (WY) (59), Juab (51), Union (44), and Richfield (35).

At BYU, senior Shaun Moore finished second in the shot put with a throw of 48-06.25 feet, the top Utah thrower in the 1A-3A competition.

Senior Rhett Nye also took second in the javelin with a 168-10.75 throw, and junior Gavin DeWitt (156-08.25) took

seventh.

Junior Brooks Anderton (4:37.42) was 14th in the 1600m, and senior Alexis Weiers (5:28.80) was 16th in the 1600m. Seniors Weiers (2:27.14) and Melanie Bybee (2:29.36) were top 20 (16th and 17th) in the 800m. Junior Tucker Giles ran the 800 in 1:58.55 to place seventh.

Senior Lucy Tripp ran a 12.70 race in the 100m to take second place with junior Jake Carter running an 11.35 in the boys’ 100m to place eighth. Grace Gordon, a senior, won the 400m race in 57.97 and placed seventh (26.50) in the 200m finals. Tripp claimed another second place (26.07) in the 200m.

The teams both performed well in their relays. The girls 4x100 relay won in 51.22 while the boys 4x100 placed third (44.12). In the Sprint Medley Relay, the girls’ team (4:34.61) claimed ninth, and the boys’ earned fourth (3:32.18). The 4x400 relay boys’ team clocked in at 3:32.18.

In the high jump, junior Abby Titus jumped 4-11 to tie for 12th, and Jake Carter earned seventh in the long jump (20.02.25). Junior Londyn Elmer was top 20 (18th place) with a throw of 96-07.75 in the discus. Moore placed 13th in discus (123-02).

At the Davis Invitational on April 29, three school records were broken. Congratulations to Lucy Tripp (200m), Tucker Giles (800m) and the girls 4x100 m relay (Bailey Beckstrom, Caitlyn Flitton, Brier Gailey, and Tripp) for breaking a school record! l

THE TROJANS ADVANCED to the soccer semifinals after a victory over Carbon. They were set to play against Ogden May 10. Photos by Trick Grow

THE WINNER OF THE SEMIFINAL match up will advance to the state championship May 12.

MGMS TEACHER SPOTLIGHTS Emily Palmer

By Verlene Johnson

Emily Palmer South Ogden, Utah

and has lived there her whole life. She attended Ogden High School while the movie “3 o’clock High,” was being filmed there. After graduating from OHS, she attended Utah State University for two years, then went on to Weber State University where she finished her associate degree in general studies. “But, I’m still an Aggie fan!” she stated.

EDUCATION SCHOOL MENU

Choosing to stay home with her children until her youngest was in school, she was constantly working in the school, first in several PTSO presidencies and later as a Skills teacher at Uintah Elementary teaching character education.

In 2015, Woody, earned her bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies (K-8) from Western Governors University. She will finish her master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction this June.

Woody began her teaching career in the fall of 2015 at Mountain Green Elementary School teaching fifth grade. She commented, “It’s hard to believe that my first group of fifth graders are graduating from high school this year!” She continued to teach fifth grade at MGES for four years before moving to third grade for three years. She found her way back to fifth grade at the start of the 2022/2023 school when she filled a position at Mountain Green Middle School teaching fifth grade this year at MGMS. “I truly have loved my teaching experience in Morgan School District!” she said.

“I have always loved school, even as a child; I enjoy learning about new things and do a lot of self-education,” Woody said. “I also come from a long line of educators, so that was always in the back of my mind as a possible career choice. Ultimately, one might say I felt “called” to the profession; I knew it was something I wanted to do.” Several of her own children had specific learning disabilities which made school difficult, and they have always had to do extra work and

studying at home. “My children always told me that I had a way of explaining things that just made sense,” she said.

“I love teaching because I love working with children. It is so awesome to see when something “clicks,” and students understand a concept, maybe for the first time. I get so excited when students are inquisitive and want to learn. I also hope to encourage the love of reading, which is the foundation for all academic success.”

Although she grew up in South Ogden, Woody has ties to Morgan County through some of her ancestors who were early settlers in both Enterprise and Croydon. “Coming up the canyon often as a child, I now feel ‘at home’ here,” she said.

Woody has been married to her husband, Quinn, for 29 years. Together they have four children. Two of their children are married and have given them three grandchildren with another one on the way!

In her spare time, Woody LOVES to read, usually reading about 100 books a year. She also loves to go to the movies or musicals, play the piano, sing, and do fun things with my family. l

A LOOK BACK

AUTOMOBILE ACCIDENT

NEAR MORGAN THE PAST WEEK

A car driven by Reta Jones and one driven by Alvin Harris collided just above Lyon Toone’s place in Croyden Sunday evening. Miss JOnes and her sister Vanda were returning from the ranch by Lost Creek where they had taken their parents, when the accident occurred. There were three other occupants in the Harris car. The Jones car was quite badly damaged.

August 8, 1931

COUNTY AGENT’S TWO YEAR OLD SON DROWNS IN CANAL

One of the saddest accidents to occur in Morgan happened Tuesday morning, at about 10:45, when Keith Richards, 2 year old son of Mr. and Mrs. Clyde R. Richards was drowned in the canal which passes the Richards residence and the High School property.

The child was missed by Mrs. Richards for about fifteen minutes and when she could not locate him,an alarm was given and almost immediately Clarence Lee, who was working on the HIgh School lawn found the body of the child.

PET OF THE WEEK

Meet Coconut Coconut is a super sweet and friendly kitty with a gentlemanly disposition. This love bug will walk up to you with a meow when you enter the room. He loves to get pets and will rub up against you until you agree that petting him along his back is the best thing to do.

Coconut is a mature gentleman, and at 8 years old is the perfect age to take home and have a snuggle buddy to relax with.

Coconut is available for adoption with Animal Care of Davis County! Make an appointment on our website today to meet Coconut and take him home!

https://www.daviscountyutah. gov/animalcare/adopt/adoption-information

Morgan & Mtn. Green

Elementary Breakfast

Monday, May 15

Scrambled eggs, Muffin Variety, Cereal Variety, Orange Juice, Mandarin Oranges

Tuesday, May 16

Donut Hole, Cereal Variety, Yogurt, Applesauce, Pears

Wednesday, May 17

Breakfast burrito,Cereal Variety, Pineapple Tidbits, Fruit Cocktail

Thursday, May 18

Pancake Sausage Stick, Cereal Variety

Sliced Peaches, Apple Wedges

Friday, May 19

Cinnamon Cream Cheese Mini Bagels

Strawberry Mini Bagel, Cereal Variety

Omelet Cheese, Orange Juice, Mandarin Oranges

Morgan & Mtn. Green Middle & HS Breakfast

Monday, May 15

Scrambled eggs, Muffin Variety, Cereal Variety, Orange Juice, Mandarin Oranges

Tuesday, May 16

Donut Hole, Cereal Variety, Yogurt, high protein, Applesauce, Sliced Pears

Wednesday, May 17

Breakfast burrito, Cereal Variety, Pineapple Tidbits, Fruit Cocktail

Thursday, May 18

Pancake Sausage Stick, Cereal Variety

Sliced Peaches, Apple Wedges

Friday, May 19

Cinnamon Cream Cheese Mini Bagels

Strawberry Mini Bagel, Cereal Variety

Omelet Cheese, Orange Juice,Mandarin Oranges

Morgan & Mtn. Green

Elementary Lunch

Monday, May 15

Popcorn Chicken, French Fries, Glazed Carrots, Pears, Blueberries, Ginger Snap Cookie

Tuesday, May 16

CrispTaco shell 1 shell, Taco Meat

Cheddar Cheese 1 oz, Wheat Roll

Tater Tots, Corn, peach cup, Apple Juice, Rice Crispie Treats

Wednesday, May 17

Turkey Gravy, Mashed Potatoes, Wheat Roll, Green Beans, Peaches, Applesauce, Gelatin

Thursday, May 18

Pepperoni Cheese Ripper, Cucumber Slices,Grape Tomatoes, Pineapple

Tidbits, Apple Wedges, Chocolate Chip

Cookie

Friday, May 19

Chicken Fillet Patty, Wheat Bun, French Fries, Broccoli Florets, Fruit Cocktail

Mandarin Oranges, Mrs Field Choc Chip Cookie

Let

us

Morgan & Mtn. Green

Middle Lunch

Monday, May 15

Nacho Chips, Cheese Sauce, Taco

Meat, Taco Salad, Burrito Los cobos

Refried Beans, Corn, Baby Carrots

Fruit Cocktail, Mandarin Oranges, Apples, Oranges, Mrs Field Choc Chip

Cookie

Tuesday, May 16

Dunker sticks, With Cheese, Italian

Dunkers Sauce, Corn Dogs, Chef Salad

Potato Wedges, Broccoli, Glazed Carrots, Mandarin Oranges, peach cup

Apples, Oranges, Sugar Cookie

Wednesday, May 17

Sweet Pork Salad, Salad Mix, Cheddar

Cheese, Tortilla Strips, Tortilla, Chicken

Nuggets, Black Beans, Potato Wedges

Celery Sticks, Sliced Pears, Blueberries

Apples, Oranges, Chocolate Chip

Cookies

Thursday, May 18

Pepperoni Cheese Ripper, Mini Corn

Dogs, BLT Salad, Cucumber Slices,Grape Tomatoes, Strawberry Cup

Mandarin Oranges, Apples, Oranges

Pumpkin Cookie

Friday, May 19

Chicken Fillet Patty, Wheat Bun, Hamburger, BLT Salad, French Fries, Broccoli Florets, Baby Carrots, Fruit Cocktail Applesauce, Apples, Oranges

PEANUT BUTTER BARS

Morgan High Lunch

Monday, May 15

Chicken Fillet Patty, Wheat Bun, Hamburger, BLT Salad, French Fries, Broccoli Florets, Baby Carrots, Fruit Cocktail Applesauce, Apples, Oranges

PEANUT BUTTER BARS

Tuesday, May 16

Dunker sticks, With Cheese, Dunker Sauce, Mini Corn Dogs, Chef Salad

Wheat Roll, Potato Wedges, Broccoli

Mandarin Oranges, peach cup, Oranges, Apples, Glazed Carrots, Sugar

Cookie

Wednesday, May 17

Sweet Pork Salad, Cheddar Cheese

Tortilla Strips, Tortilla, Wheat Roll, Chicken Nuggets, Black Beans, Potato Wedges, Celery Sticks, Sliced Pears

Blueberries, Apples, Oranges

Chocolate Chip Cookies

Thursday, May 18

Pepperoni Cheese Ripper, Popcorn

Chicken, Wheat Roll, BLT Salad

Cucumber Slices,Grape Tomatoes

Strawberry Cup, Mandarin Oranges

Apples, Oranges, Pumpkin Cookie

Friday, May 19

Breakfast burrito, Chicken Strips /

Choice, Wheat Roll, Hashbrown Triangles, Celery Sticks, Sweet potato fries

Orange Juice, Applesauce, Apples Oranges, Rice Crispie Treats, Yogurt, high protein

tell the world!

Celebrating an anniversary or a 70th, 80th or 90th birthday? Are you planning a wedding or have you just had one? How cute is your one-year-old child or grandchild? The Morgan County News wants to help you spread the word. Please submit a photo and a short writeup of whatever you are celebrating or planning to our editorial staff at alisha.c@davisjournal.com. This is a great way to let the community know what’s happening in your world. Our publications go into mailboxes each Friday and are produced on Mondays and Tuesdays of that week. So your deadline would be Monday by 5 p.m. Let us help you tell the world! From your friends and neighbors at The Morgan County News.

EMILY PALMER

How Mother’s Day is celebrated around the world

By Verlene Johnson

Many countries around the world have celebrated motherhood for centuries. Different countries celebrate motherhood in different ways from religious and historical reasons to legendary and secular reasons. Some traditions of celebrating mothers and motherhood can be traced back to the ancient Greeks and Romans, who held festivals in honor of the mother goddesses Rhea and Cybele. One tradition from the United Kingdom and parts of Europe is to celebrate mothers on the fourth Sunday during Lent calling it Mothering Sunday. “It was originally seen as a time when the faithful would return to their “mother church”—the main church in the vicinity of their home—for a special service,” according to History. com. For Thailand and Japan their “Mothering Sunday” is celebrated on the birthdays of important women in their countries.

Over time this tradition that was most often called ‘Mothering Sunday,’ shifted into a more secular holiday, following the

traditional American holiday, which is celebrated on the second Sunday of May. Some of these countries are Canada, Australia, New Zealand, India, China, Japan, Philippines and South Africa, along with most European countries with the exception of the United Kingdom and Ireland which still celebrate Mother’s Day during Lent and France which celebrates on May 25. Additionally, most Arab countries celebrate during the Vernal Equinox, March 21; while Russia celebrates March 8 in conjunction with Women’s International Day; Mexico's Mother’s Day is always celebrated on May 10.

You may be asking yourself ‘When did Mother’s Day first start in America?’ Back in the nineteenth century in the years before the Civil War, Ann Reeves Jarvis of West Virginia wanted to help teach local women how to properly care for their children by starting a “Mothers’ Day Work Club.” In 1868 Jarvis organized “Mothers’ Friendship Day,'' where mothers gathered with former Union and Confederate soldiers to promote reconciliation, according to History.com.

Though the nineteenth century many

women worked to promote the celebration of motherhood, namely, abolitionist and suffragette, Julia Ward Howe, who wrote the “Mother’s Day Proclamation in 1870; temperance activist, Juliet Calhoun Blakely who inspired a local Mother’s Day in Albion, Michigan in the 1870s; Mary Towles Sasseen and Frank Hering worked to organize an official Mother’s Day in the late 19th early 20th centuries. However, it was Jarvis’s own daughter, Anna Jarvis who after many long years of arguing that American holidays were biased toward male achievements, started a massive letter-writing campaign to newspapers and politicians, urging the adoption of a special day honoring motherhood. By 1912 many states, towns and churches had adopted Mother’s Day as an annual holiday. In 1914 President Woodrow Wilson officially established the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day. By 1920 Jarvis had become disgusted with the holiday that’s original purpose was to be a day of personal celebration between mothers and families had become commercialized by card, flower and candy companies. She outwardly

denounced the transformation of Mother’s Day becoming commercialized and urged people to stop buying those things for the holiday. Eventually, she spent most of her personal wealth in legal fees launching countless lawsuits against groups who were using the name “Mother’s Day.” By 1948, the year Jarvis died, she had disowned the holiday altogether and had actively lobbied the government to remove it from the American Calendar. Despite Jarvis’s efforts, Americans continue to celebrate Mother’s Day by presenting their mothers with gifts and flowers. Some families also celebrate by giving mothers a day off from activities like cooking or other household chores. It is also becoming more popular to not only honor mothers but to honor all women, whether they are a mother or not. Despite some women dreading the holiday, most look forward to being pampered and spoiled on the second Sunday in May each year.

The Morgan County News would like to wish mothers everywhere a very happy Mother’s Day. l

Emergency manager delivers grim report at county meeting

By Linda Petersen

Morgan County Emergency Manager

Austin Turner had no good news for county commissioners as he reported to them on the state of flooding in the county on May 2.

“I almost convinced myself that we were going to be ok,” he said, “but I don’t know.”

An obviously exhausted Turner got emotional at times as he described for the commissioners the signs, he was already seeing of what could be catastrophic flooding over the next couple of months as the snow melts.

East Canyon Reservoir was gaining three feet a day in run off and was expected to spill over in 10 to 11 days, he reported. Water was already running across Jeremy Ranch Road, he said. Harts Gravel, considered a mid-level snow site, should have just one inch of water in the snowpack at this time of year in an average year, he said. “We’re over 27 inches of water. There’s a significant amount of snow that’s still yet to come down to that area.”

If warm weather continues and the high-level snow begins to melt soon “the party’s over,” he said.

Weber Basin Water Conservancy District actions in slowing down the flow

from East Canyon Reservoir to mitigate flooding in Weber County have been criticized by the Army Corps of Engineers, Turner said. “Everything we slowed down out of East Canyon is now coming out of Harts Gravel,” he said.

Several efforts by Morgan County have helped hold off some flooding but those efforts are already starting becoming ineffective, he said.

County crews are starting to see flooding in Croydon from the mid-level snow melt, he said. Areas already affected also include Highland Road, portions of Porterville and the Deep Creek area, Turner said. Peterson Creek was “holding its own” at that point, but Weber Basin had closed down Echo Reservoir, he said. The river flows have benefitted from the reservoirs being at around 25 percent capacity but with the high-level snow not having melted, that situation is not going to continue, Turner said. “At the top of Lookout Peak at Hart’s Gravel there’s still 51 inches of water in the snow.”

Turner praised the “amazing volunteers” who had been turning out to fill sandbags over the last few weeks, but the county is now running out of sandbags, he said. The county is going to need to prioritize its resources and use what sandbags it has to protect homes and infrastructure, he added. “We don’t have enough sandbags to do what needs to be

MGMS STUDENTS OF THE MONTH

done. We’re going to be overwhelmed, and we’re going to have to do everything we can just to protect people’s homes and infrastructure.”

Although many residents would like help to preserve property and outbuildings, that’s just not going to be possible as the flooding gets worse, he said. “I’m afraid there’s not enough sandbags in the state of Utah to do that anymore.”

Turner said there has already been criticism from some residents on how the county has handled some flooding situations. Usually, it’s because they don’t understand the full ramifications of the actions they would like the county to take, he said. During a recent flooding incident residents wanted the county crew to breach roadways to help with flooding, for example, but were unaware that there was a four-inch gas main under a gravel bar there they wanted dug out, he said.

“I want to make sure in the public setting[of the commission meeting] that residents … understand we are doing everything possible to hang on” Jared Anderson commented. “… For as long as we can,” Turner chimed in.

Turner also cautioned residents to stay well clear of stream banks and other waterways because the water is flowing so fast. He and his crew had attempted to stabilize a bridge above East Canyon Reservoir with 2,100-pound sandbags.

They returned the next day to find eight of the huge sandbags had been swept downstream.

“If you think you can jump in a stream and do ok – if you’re stronger than a 2,000-pound sandbag, maybe,” he said.

Commissioners and Turner urged all residents to consult with the county before engaging in any kind of mitigation efforts beyond sandbagging their homes. They could inadvertently make things worse for their neighbors, they said. Turner shared an example of a resident who had cleared a streambed and bank of shrub and brush only to discover that this had undermined the bank.

Commissioners urged the public to report flooding incidents on the county website which has been set up with a link and also to report volunteer hours there. Documenting all efforts could be critical as the impacts of flooding are felt, they said. If FEMA is called in, as seems likely, they will work with Turner and county officials to determine what has been done in terms of mitigation. Having that information could be critical, he said.

The next couple of months will be tough, he said.

At the end of Turner’s presentation commissioners urged Turner to go home and get some rest. He shook his head. “I’m going back to work,” he said. l

Morgan Middle School

KREW BECKSTROM 5TH

GRETA SILL 6TH

ROCKY MANSFIELD 6TH

JOELLE MACDONALD 5TH

WHAT TO WATCH

‘THE MOTHER’ struggles, but ‘STILL: A Michael J. Fox Movie’ shines

By Jenniffer Wardell The Movie Guru

“The

Mother” (Netflix)

“The Mother” is really two movies uncomfortably squished together.

The first is a straightforward, somewhat grim action movie about an ex-military sniper trying to save a young woman who has been kidnapped by people in the sniper’s past. If you’re a fan of darker, revenge-based action movies, these portions of the film are solidly satisfying. The fact that the vet is a woman is the most interesting thing about it – female leads are still tragically rare in the action genre – and Jennifer Lopez performs her duties admirably.

The second movie, unfortunately, is the angsty story of an emotionally destroyed woman reconnecting with the daughter she was forced to give away under violent circumstances. There are some potentially interesting concepts here, such as the teaching of violence as a tragic attempt at love, that could make for a wrenching indie film. If you wanted to execute those concepts at all well, however, it would take at least an hour of careful buildup.

Since that previous hour is taken with the

Merla Bernice Baxter Fife, known for her love of life, family, and the Savior, peacefully returned home on May 8, 2023. She was a fun-loving, kind-hearted Mother, Grandmother, and Great Grandmother. Merla was born on Aug. 9, 1939, to Merl H. and Iola Gibbs Baxter. She will be missed beyond words by those who knew and loved her. Merla is known for her vibrant spirit, willingness to serve and help anyone in need, and desire to serve her Savior.

Merla married the love of her life, Morris, on Oct. 17, 1955; they were later sealed in the Salt Lake City Temple. They raised their family in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She always said that she always had a testimony of Jesus Christ and wanted her children and grandchildren to as well. She exemplified that testimony of Jesus Christ in how she loved each family member purely and wholeheartedly. She always took the time to testify of Him in her conversations with loved ones, the lessons she taught, and her example to others. Her teaching continued after the loss of her sweetheart as she valiantly endured a life

grim action movie, however, we don't get that. We get a half hour of uncomfortable dinners and shooting lessons, then it’s back to the action movie. Instead of adding any kind of depth to the film, the switch skids the tension to an abrupt halt and means we don’t spend nearly enough time with the villains. The movie is all about revenge, from both sides, but we never really get to feel why they hate her so much.

On their own, either movie might have been good. Together, however, “The Mother” is merely OK.

Grade: Two stars

“STILL: A Michael J. Fox Movie” (Apple TV+)

Parkinson’s may have limited the acting roles Michael J. Fox can comfortably accept, but he’s just as engaging as ever.

Proof of that can be found in “STILL: A Michael J. Fox Movie,” which hits streaming this weekend. Though it’s described as a documentary, the experience of watching “STILL” is more like being invited over to Fox’s house for a frank, incredibly interesting discussion about his life. He’s open about everything, from letting stardom get to his head during his early years to hiding his Parkinson's and the alcoholism that came from it.

without him and demonstrated strength through trials as she insisted on living on her own and being independent.

Merla spent her life devoted to her family. She and Morris were blessed with nine beautiful children they loved dearly. Their children and their posterity were their greatest treasures and most proud accomplishment. Merla spent countless hours sewing cheerleading outfits, prom dresses, baby blankets, and anything else her family asked her to attempt. She developed her talents around her children and grandchildren as she worked to meet their needs. She loved flowers, and she and Morris were known for their beautiful gardens. Merla enjoyed flower arranging, decorating and remodeling her home, keeping an immaculate home, and researching genealogy. She was the heart of her family, and every member has experienced her deep, sincere love for them. Her love came without condition and will remain in the hearts of her family, friends, and loved ones who knew her.

Merla was preceded in death by her parents, Merl and Iola Baxter; her brother Merl

He’s still in command of his own story, but it’s clear he’s not holding anything back.

He’s also still the born showman we all came to love through years of movies and television. The charm we’re all so familiar with is still very much in evidence, without the manic energy of earlier years but displaying the same magnetic pull. He’s also as funny as ever, with a wry, observational humor that both carries the movie along and gives serious moments that much more impact. When the normally talkative Fox goes speechless for a moment, it's heartbreaking.

The editing on the movie is incredible. Several flashback scenes feature a mix of fromthe-back re-creation and scenes from Fox’s old movies, all carefully chosen and cut to blend seamlessly together. The result almost looks like we’re watching a young Fox experience all these things in real time, which only adds to the experience.

If you’ve ever been a fan of Michael J. Fox, or just want to spend some time with a fascinating, funny man, then “STILL” is a movie you can’t miss.

Grade: Four stars

Lamar Baxter; her husband, D. Morris Fife; her son Morris Anthony Fife; and her great grandsons, Stetson Petersen and Jordan Carter.

Her children survive her, Janelle (Rich) Skeen, Georgene (Jeff) Carter, Carolyn (Arlin) Ovard, Linda (Dallen) Wilcox, Kim (Chris) Mikesell, Adam (Coerina) Fife, Jennifer (Ed) Kinsey, Tiffany Fife; 35 grandchildren, 37 great grandchildren with one more on the way; her siblings Jeanenne (Don) Warenski, Brenda Barlow, Bonnie (Nick) Tomaino, Dianna (Bruce) Hart, and Marsha Cluff.

Services will be held Thursday, May 18, at 11 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ meeting house at 2700 South Morgan Valley Drive, Morgan, Utah 84050. A viewing will be held on Wednesday, May 17, at Walker Mortuary from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. and on the morning of the services from 9:45 a.m. –10:45 a.m. at the aforementioned church meeting house.

The family would like to thank Merla’s ward family. She and Morris enjoyed their years of serving in the nursery. They were extremely grateful for the countless ward

members who reached out throughout the years, particularly the last year, to assist Merla when a need arose.

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.

Credit for photo ©Netflix

Merla Bernice Baxter Fife

SHERIFF’S DISPATCH

Following are recent calls officers responded to from the Morgan County Sheriff’s Office. The Sheriff’s Office responded to a total of 148 calls from April 28 through May 5. Any arrests are listed as reported and all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty and convicted.

Enterprise

Traffic stop (2), Family disturb (1), Trespassing (3).

Milton

Traffic stop (3), Wildlife problem (4), 30D Traumatic (2), CSI assist (1), Animal control (4), Retail theft (4).

Morgan

Message police (12), Animal control (4), House check (3), Assist (22), Motorist assist (7), Burglary alarm (4), Warrant (3), 32B Medical ALA (6), Info law (4), Panic alarm (2), Disturbance (2), 28C stroke (2), Traffic stop (4), Hit and run (3), Water problem (8), Follow up (14), Grass fire (3), Damage property (6), Found property (8), Weapon disturbance (1), Susp vehicle (6), Child neglect (2), Welfare check (3), Jail release (2), Psychiatric (1), 25B Psychiatric (2), VIN inspection (4), Safety hazard (2), 23C Overdose (2), 26C Sick person (2), Medical assist (6), Fire assist (1).

Mountain Green

Sex offense (6), Traffic stop (14), Weapon disturb (6), Juvenile disturb (3), Keep the peace (3), Susp circumstance (3), VIN (12), Trespassing IP (1), Follow up (6), Fraud (6), 23C overdose (2), Assist OJ (4), Burglary alarm (2), Welfare check (2), Medical assist (1).

Peterson

Motorist assist (3), VIN inspection (4), Traffic stop (3), Trespassing (3).

Porterville

Water problem (4), Assist OJ (4), 17D

Monday Jeopardy! Masters

(4) KTVX 7 p.m.

Former “Jeopardy!” champions are competing against each other and vying for the “Master” title in this round-robin tournament, which continues tonight. Returning champions include Mattea Roach, Matt Amodio and James Holzhauer.

NCIS: Hawai’i

(2) KUTV 9 p.m.

Part one of the Season 2 finale begins with the discovery of a dead MI6 agent, one whose appearance shines a light on some long-buried secrets from Jane Tennant’s (Vanessa Lachey) past, sending her on a mission. Julie White and Linc Hand guest star.

Tuesday

2023 NBA Draft Lottery

ESPN 6:30 p.m.

Ahead of the 2023 NBA Draft in June, the 14 NBA teams who missed out on the playoffs vye for draft pick order through the lottery system. After drawing four numbers in a back room, NBA Deputy Commissioner and CEO Mark Tatum reveals the results.

Weakest Link

(5) KSL 9 p.m.

Jane Lynch (“Glee”) hosts another episode where, every round, teams vote to eliminate the contestant they consider to be … “The Weakest Link”. Eight strangers, including a doctor and an exotic dancer, work as a team to bank prize money and answer trivia.

Wednesday

The Masked Singer

(13) KSTU 7 p.m.

Host Nick Cannon joins the judges for Season 9. Debbie Gibson, Michael Bolton and Dick Van Dyke have been eliminated, but if Robin, Jenny, Ken and Nicole can hone their guessing skills, it could lead to the biggest shock in the show’s history.

The Game Show Show

(4) KTVX 9 p.m.

Part two of this miniseries continues to celebrate one of the most beloved television genres: Game Shows. This week, Vanna White joins (and finally competes!), talking cash-prizes, spinning wheels, and heart wrenching moments of victory and defeat.

Thursday Station 19

(4) KTVX 7 p.m.

This rollercoaster of a season concludes with an epic finale, setting our

April 28-May 5

Fall (2), VIN inspection (4), Medical assist (1).

Round Valley

Assist fire dept. (1), Traffic stop (1).

Stoddard

Juvenile disturb (3).

Other county calls:

Taggart: (1) Suspicious Vehicle

Traffic Stops:

1. Mountain Green, (1) Trapper’s Loop

Calls on I84:

Animal Control (2)

Assist with Traffic Accident (2)

Motorist Assist (2)

Safety Hazard (1)

Suspicious Circumstance (1)

Suspicious Vehicle (2)

Traffic Hazard (4)

Traffic Stops (4)

Other:

Assist Other Jurisdiction (4)

Total calls: 130

Arrests:

5/2/23: Male, 67, Ogden UT, Driving on Denied License, Interlock Restricted Driver Operating Vehicle Without Interlock System, Operating Vehicle Without Insurance, Unsafe Vehicle/

Faulty Equipment

5/4/23: Male, 43, Morgan UT, Warrant arrest with new charges of Possession of a Controlled Substance Schedule I/II/ANALOG, Use or Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

$14.06 per hour

MMS - 2 positions available 4 hours per day / no benefits Closing: Open until filled

Jack O’Driscoll, of Morgan, Utah passed away in his home on May 6, 2023. Jack was born Gale John O’Driscoll on Sept.19, 1935 in Salt Lake City and was the only child of Gale and Ida Moss O’Driscoll. He grew up in Morgan, spending his time living and working at Como Springs Resort. Jack attended both Weber State and University of Utah, then at 21, he married his wife Kay in the Salt Lake Temple and moved to California. His three sons: Stan, Dean and Jeff were all born there. Then his career took him to New Jersey where his daughter, Michelle was born.

In 1968, the family of six moved back home to Morgan. Here Jack designed, drafted, and built the family home on the spot where he felt the view of the mountains was the most spectacular.

Jack spent his life hiking, camping, and hunting in those mountains surrounding his home. His initials can be found on trees and rocks up and down the valley. He also had a great love of memorizing poetry and hymns to keep his mind sharp, and he kept a meticulous journal recording of all his adventures and family events.

His career was in accounting, but included working for several different companies across industries. He served in the Air National Guard and shared stories of flights to Alaska, Mexico and one fateful trip under the Golden Gate Bridge.

Jack was dedicated to his lifelong faith. He served as a missionary, high councilor, bishop and temple worker in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and in many other capacities in his community.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents and his firstborn son, Stanton K O’Driscoll. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Kay Lucille Rich O’Driscoll, and his sons: Gale Dean and Jeffrey Scott O’Driscoll; and his daughter, Michelle Gleason.

A viewing will be held from 5-7 p.m. on Friday, May 12 and from 11 to 11:45 a.m. on Saturday, May 13, at the Milton Church, 1255 N. Morgan Valley Drive, with a funeral at noon at the same location. Jack will be interred next to his son in the Milton Pioneer Cemetery. A graveside prayer will be offered for family only.

TELEVISION GUIDE

favorite firefighters up for its incoming seventh season. Jason George, Jaina Lee Ortiz, Danielle Savre, Grey Damon and Barrett Doss star in this red-hot

“Grey’s Anatomy” spin-off.

I Survived Bear Grylls

WGN 7 p.m.

In this new series, comedian Jordan Conley teams up with Bear Grylls to put armchair adventurers to the test through simulated wilderness challenges. The last one standing will win a cash prize and can proudly say “I survived Bear Grylls.”

Friday

A Black Lady Sketch Show

HBO 9 p.m.

Creator, showrunner, and executive producer Robin Thede returns in tonight’s finale, leading a cast of Black women performing sketches in a magical reality for the last time in Season 6. Also starring returning cast Gabrielle Dennis and Skye Townsend.

The Great American Joke Off

(30) KUCW 9:30 p.m.

This knee-slapping new comedy series celebrates gags, wisecracks, one-liners and the art of telling a great joke. Featured comics this episode include Joe List, Luke Mones, Rebecca O’Neal, Rhys James, Glenn Moore and Josh Johnson.

Saturday

WNBA Basketball

(4) KTVX

In their first game of the regular sea son, the Dallas Wings host the Atlanta Dream from College Park Center in Arlington, Texas. Following this live airing, the 2022 WNBA Champion Las Vegas Aces are in Washington to face off against the Seattle Storm.

148th Preakness

Stakes

(5) KSL

The run for the Black-Eyed Susans returns for its 148th iteration, live from

Thursday

(2) KUTV 7 p.m.

Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore. The second race for the Triple Crown in thoroughbred horse racing, it ranks as one of the top North American equestrian events.

Pearl

SHOW 7 p.m.

This 2022 horror film stars Mia Goth as the titular Pearl, a young girl stuck on an isolated farm in 1918. As madness creeps in, she begins to obsess over the pursuit of stardom, desperate to evade a terrifyingly dreary future spent on her parent’s farm.

Sunday 2023 PGA Championship

(2) KUTV 11 a.m.

The Final Round of the 2023 PGA Championship airs live from Oak Hill Country Club, in Rochester, N.Y. This series will be the 105th year of the championship, featuring only the most talented the sport has to offer. Next up:

The Charles Schwab challenge.

The Great North (13) KSTU 7:30 p.m.

Season 3 concludes with a new episode, followed by the Season 13 finale of “Bob’s Burgers.” As Season 4 approaches, Judy, Wolf and the rest of the Tobin kids are sure to get tangled up in more Alaskan antics, with their father, Beef, never far behind.

A Salute to NCIS: Los

Celebrity Profile

By Dana Simpson TV Media

Fresh off his success with “Everything

Everywhere

All at Once” (2022), Ke Huy Quan is drumming up plenty of business in Hollywood. Once hailed for his childhood acting chops, Quan is making a name for himself as an adult actor. The Academy Award winner now stars in “American Born Chinese,” making its Disney+ premiere Wednesday, May 24.

Adapted for television by Kelvin Yu (“Master of None”) and based on the 2006 graphic novel of the same name by American cartoonist Gene Luen Yang, “American Born Chinese” is an eight-episode series that follows high-schooler Jin Wang (Ben Wang, “Chang Can Dunk,” 2023), who is struggling to work out the nuances of his Chinese heritage in a predominantly white American neighborhood. When an international student moves to town from Taiwan, Wang is pulled into “a battle with Chinese mythological gods” (per IMDb). “American Born Chinese” costars Poppy Liu (“Hacks”), Jimmy O. Yang (“Love Hard,” 2021), Ronny Chieng (“Crazy Rich Asians,” 2018) and Daniel Wu (“Westworld”), and places Quan back in a cast with his “Everything Everywhere All at Once” co-stars Michelle Yeoh and Stephanie Hsu.

Young Sheldon Season 6 concludes with two new episodes of “Young Sheldon” premiering Thursday, May 19, on CBS. Sheldon (Iain Armitage) gets ready for his summer in Germany with Mary (Zoe Perry) while Georgie (Montana Jordan) is surprised by Mandy (Emily Osment) and presented with a spa weekend. Afterwards, the Coopers prepare for a tornado.

Born in Saigon (now known as Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam, Aug. 20, 1971, Ke Huy Quan’s life began in relative turmoil. One of nine children born to his Chinese parents, Quan was separated from his mother and three siblings in 1978 when they fled to Malaysia as he joined his five other siblings and father in a refugee camp in Hong Kong. Reunited with his family in Los Angeles when Quan was nine, the actor still recalls his emigration experience as a “really traumatic” one.

That’s the Tooth

A porcupine’s teeth keep growing every day, so they need to gnaw and gnaw on things to keep their teeth from getting too big. Circle every other letter to reveal a surprising fact about porcupine teeth.

Porcupines by the Numbers

porcupine is a peaceful and pokey animal. The word pokey has two meanings. It can mean slow. Or it can mean something sharp that can poke or jab.

Porcupines have sharp, pokey quills

These are how a porcupine protects itself from predators. They can also make a porcupine look larger and more scary.

Making a Point

Don’t Stick Around!

If a porcupine is attacked, its prickly quills come out and poke into the face or body of the attacker. Porcupines do not shoot their quills like arrows. But the quills come out easily when touched.

At the end of each quill is a tiny hook, like a fishhook, which makes the quill puncture and stick into skin of a predator. Porcupines have soft fur mixed with sharp quills. The quills lie flat until a porcupine is threatened.

The Tree Life

Porcupines eat leaves, twigs and fruit. No ____________ many live in trees!

Replace the missing words!

They have long tails that they can ________ around branches to help them __________ up trees. But if they can’t find a good sleeping spot in a tree, they will sleep on the ground or in a ____________ log.

Porcupines are _________________. This means they like to sleep during the day and stay up at night.

Whoa, Baby!

Baby porcupines are called porcupettes They are born covered in soft, bendable quills that harden a few days after they are born. When attacked, a porcupine rolls up into a ball. Imagine a spiky ball!

Porcupine Poem

Signs of Spring

What are three signs of spring in your community? Write about how they make you feel.