Juicy peaches, bright red cherries and tasty apples have been growing in the Fruita Historic District since the early 1880s, when the Latter-day Saint pioneers began calling this area home. Today, these historic fruit trees remain accessible to the local community and visitors from around the world. When fruit is available, the park’s orchards open for fruit harvesting, inviting visitors to enjoy this special part of Capitol Reef’s lush desert landscape.
Capitol Reef is one of more than 130 national parks, recreation areas and historic sites that preserve orchards. What makes Capitol Reef’s orchards especially remarkable is the harsh desert environment in which the trees grow.
Fruit trees thriving in this landscape are not something you see every day.
CRNP Orchards Cont'd on A6
Escalante Yurts 'Blends Allure of Camping with Modern Comforts'
by Jaynie Connor
Escalante Yurts, owned by Scott and Jan Roundy and located just outside the town of Escalante, offers a cozy retreat surrounded by striking red rock cliffs and expansive desert views. “We didn’t want to build just another place to sleep, we wanted to create an experience," said Jan. "Escalante’s scenery is breathtaking, with adventure around every corner, and we set out to make the lodging match that same spirit of wonder and discovery.”
ESCALANTE - Located just outside the town of Escalante, tourists can find a unique glamping experience at Escalante Yurts. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, each spacious yurt beautifully blends the allure of camping with modern comforts. After a day filled with hiking, canyoneering, or navigating scenic routes like Highway 12, these yurts offer a cozy retreat. Surrounded by striking red rock cliffs, expansive desert views, and some of southern Utah’s
BRYCE - The Bryce Canyon Half Marathon & 5K held their 24th annual run, which included celebration of America’s 250th birthday, on July 11, 2026, with designated flag runners representing the Utah Army National Guard. This race has been running among the spectacular sunrise views of Bryce Canyon National Park and toward Kodachrome Basin State Park along Highway
12 between Bryce Canyon City and Cannonville Town for twenty-four years. As a committee, it was an honor to theme this year’s race “Freedom Runs Here” and connect it to America’s 250th celebration. The marathon was started in 2003 by McKay Thompson as an Eagle Scout project and has conBryce Marathon Cont'd on A3
SALT LAKE CITYDuring fiscal year 2025, the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources completed 133 habitat projects, specifically to help mule deer populations in Utah.
Over the past few decades, Utah has seen periods of growth and decline in deer numbers. The most recent population estimate is approximately 324,000 deer statewide. Over the past 10 years, the statewide deer population estimate has ranged from a low of 278,000 to a high of 374,000.
As a result, for the past
Habitat Projects Cont'd on B3
most renowned outdoor adventures, Escalante Yurts serves as the perfect base camp for travelers seeking both relaxation and convenient access to one of the state's most breathtaking regions.
Escalante Yurts is owned by Scott and Jan
Roundy of Escalante. “It wasn’t a lifelong dream of running a hotel, it was a family legacy and a real opportunity that brought us here,” said Jan. According to Jan,
Escalante Yurts Cont'd on B3
by Kathryn Chamberlain
WAYNE CO. - Wayne County Commissioners approved moving forward with a countywide master recreation plan during the July 20 meeting, a step they hope will help local communities qualify for more grant funding for parks, trails and other recreation projects. R6 Regional Planner Brock Jackson said the proposal grew out of unsuccessful recreation planning grant applications submitted by Loa and Lyman. State reviewers said the projects were too small, prompting the idea for a countywide plan that would help communities plan for parks, pools, recreation centers, ball fields, pickleball courts, and both motorized and non-motorized trails. Jackson said the master plan would help communities compete for future grants while avoiding unnecessary duplication of Wayne Commission Cont'd on B2
in Tropic. The mission of Cowboy Camp is to increase agricultural literacy by providing young people with a pathway to future agricultural involvement through their own interests and unique angles of advocacy. This year, thirtyfive 4-H youth campers from across the state gathered in Bryce Canyon and were able to explore agriculture through a variety of activities.
TROPIC - Utah 4-H's Cowboy Camp celebrated its 5th anniversary this year from July 7-9 in Tropic. Cowboy Camp is an agricultural literacy initiative developed by Heather Thomson, a Utah 4-H
Program Coordinator. The mission of Cowboy Camp is to increase agricultural literacy by providing young people with a pathway to future agricultural involvement through their own interests and unique angles of
advocacy; whether that be the future producer who raises food, an engineer who designs machinery to harvest it, a lawmaker who Cowboy Camp Cont'd on B2
Courtesy Kaitlyn Lunt
Photo Courtesy Scott and Jan Roundy
Letters to the Editor
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For three decades and longer, we in southern Utah have been told by people detached and far removed from our towns and homes that they know what is best for our lands, our livelihoods, and our future. We have been bossed around by those who never lived here, worked here, raised families here, or carried on the daily chores of making a living from these lands.
We have been lectured by activists, organizations, and bureaucrats who treated local knowledge as an inconvenience and saw local concerns as obstacles. When we questioned their decisions, we were portrayed as ignorant enemies of conservation rather than neighbors who care deeply about the plac-
One, they’re big. I mean BIG. Big land, big water, big energy, and big bucks to make them happen. The public has become wary of giant projects because they can crush us. The political and financial powers that control such projects are distant and only focused on benefits to their rich sponsors. The public, especially the local public, is shut out and pushed around by the big men of big things. Big data centers treat us as if we are small.
Two. We are beginning to understand that the value created by working men and women has been stolen by a tiny class of billionaires We are squeezed by this class so hard we can’t afford fuel, healthcare, food, or housing. The growing resent-
Since the subject of nuclear has found its way into the Insider’s “Letters to the Editor,” I do agree that the idea of toxic waste does deserve some introspection.
For well over a hundred fifty years, rural Utah’s make up has been defined by what is known by the idiom "salt of the earth," which in lay terms refers to a person or group of people who are remarkably honest, kind, reliable, and humble.
Keeping the "salt of
Celebrating Reductions to GSENM
es where we every day live our lives.
The reduction of the Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument has changed all that. It is a rejection of the notion that only a few groups have the wisdom, compassion, and moral authority to decide the future of public lands.
We love this country. We love the red cliffs, the desert valleys, the mountains, the rivers, and the open spaces that define southern Utah. Outsiders can love this land as much as we do, but they cannot love it more than we do. We do not need outsiders to teach us that these places are valuable. We see their value every day.
Stewardship is not simply locking away resources and restricting ac-
cess. Stewardship means responsibility. It means using the land wisely, correcting mistakes, learning from experience, and ensuring that future generations inherit something better than what we received.
Those who oppose this decision are entitled to their opinions. They can criticize it, challenge it, and argue that it was the wrong choice. Yet there is no entitlement to claim that their view is morally superior.
This decision is a victory for those who believe public lands belong to all Americans—not only to federal agencies, political organizations, or distant experts who believe they know better than the communities most affected by their decisions.
For those who have
Why Are Data Centers So Unpopular?
ment of the billionaires fits nicely into our suspicion of things too big.
Water. Data centers create “heat zones” and air pollution, but the focus is on water. We see and feel the Earth warming. We live in the smoke and bear the heat. We experience the confusion of the seasons and the extreme weather turmoil generated by a warming climate. We know stories about rivers running dry, empty reservoirs, shrinking aquifers. Our latent fears about the health and integrity of the planet that nourishes us is expressed in our fear of water scarcity. Data centers are toxic water hogs.
Energy. Data centers are energy vampires. So much so that the proponents of data centers are also pushing a return to nu-
clear power. Nuclear power may be the perfect energy source for this corrupt era. It is dishonest, dangerous, and unaccountable. Even when folks don’t see the sneaky lil’ nuke hiding behind the data center mask, they sense that utility rate payers are likely to get skinned in the long run. Transparency. Or, the lack of transparency. That is a polite way of saying proponents lie and mislead while fast-tracking their monster boondoggles through the approval and licensing requirements. Data centers are generated by backroom deals. Citizens are given no chance to understand or oppose the consequences. The disrespect for public opinion is obvious. To them, our opposition means we are Chinese puppets, not neighbors
The Scourge of Nuclear
the earth" idiom in mind, these were people that were laser focused on survival, which is still true today in the fact that making a living and “surviving” in rural Utah requires a certain understanding, finesse and down-to-earth state of mind.
Under the microscope, taking Wayne County (and most of southern Utah) as an example, farming and ranching as a way of life occupies most of the space on the DWS economic data page, which on the ground
means that when you go to the grocery store or the gas station, you are bound to experience more boots, gloves and cowboy and seed supplier’s hats than you are BMWs and tricked out Toyotas.
Truth being, the people dressed in work clothes with a pair of gloves dangling from their back pocket and pinching pennies in the store and going to church on Sunday are the ones that are really experiencing life.
So, let’s introduce tox-
spent decades telling us to accept their victories graciously, perhaps this is an opportunity to remember that principle now works both ways.
The debate over these monuments will continue. It should. But this time, the voices of southern Utah have been heard. After decades of being told to accept decisions made by others, we will not apologize for appreciating a moment when persistence, patience, and conviction were finally rewarded. We have earned this victory. We have earned the right to celebrate it. And we will remember it as a time when local voices proved they could still be heard above the noise of distant critics and detached but powerful organizations.
Bud Donmoyer, Escalante
with families and sincere concerns.
Purpose. We don’t like surveillance, and data centers are wedded to high tech surveillance. Big brother can’t watch you without data centers. Does surveillance keep us safe? Maybe, but it is far more likely to be used by the billionaires to make themselves richer at our expense. As long as the purpose of data centers is defined by billionaire bros through servile politicians, instead of by the needs and wishes of citizens, data centers will be unpopular. The public has been conned too often into big shiny things that carry big prices and dire liabilities for us and more power for the titans of big tech.
Chip Ward, Torrey
ic waste into the equation and blow everyone’s mind?
In this day and age, with the cost of living being as unpredictable as it has ever been, and as someone dwelling near the bottom of “Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs,” I am feeling quite lucky to be living in Wayne County (with southern Utah included), and I can say in all honesty that preaching nuclear destruction to the locals is falling on deaf ears.
Adus Dorsey, Wayne County
What You Need to Know About Cyclosporiasis
by Jose Brandao, Utah State University Extension Food Safety Specialist
U.S. - As fresh produce takes center stage this summer, cyclosporiasis has gained attention as a foodborne intestinal illness linked to contaminated fruits and vegetables. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, symptoms such as nausea and diarrhea may hit, go away, and then return. Other symptoms, such as fatigue, may continue, even after the gastrointestinal symptoms have subsided.
The outbreak has raised questions about how people become infected, which foods are involved, and what consumers can do to reduce their risk. Consider this information.
Cyclospora cayetanensis is the microscopic parasite that causes
cyclosporiasis. People become infected by consuming contaminated food or water.
• The parasite is unlikely to spread from person to person because the parasite needs to mature outside the body to become infectious again.
• Iceberg lettuce is currently the primary suspected food linked to the current outbreak. In previous outbreaks, fresh berries and other produce have also been implicated. Contaminated irrigation water with human fecal material is believed to be a common source of contamination. Any produce exposed to it could become affected.
Although Cyclospora is difficult to remove from fresh produce, consumers can reduce their risk by
practicing good food safety habits:
Maintain proper kitchen hygiene. Wash hands and food-preparation surfaces carefully before preparing food.
• Rinse fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water. This is typically sufficient before eating, cutting, or cooking, even if the food is labeled as prewashed. However, it is not enough to remove Cyclospora. Scrub firm fruits and vegetables, such as melons and cucumbers, before cutting to remove possible contamination on the skin. Commercial produce washes are generally unnecessary for most foodborne-causing organisms and are ineffective against Cyclospora.
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OUR MISSION: to foster community connection, civic engagement, economic resilience and journalistic integrity for rural southern Utah.
Local columnists: Mack Oetting - FYI Panguitch Adus Dorsey - News from Wayne County
• Whenever practical, cooking to 158°F (70°C) kills Cyclospora and many other foodborne pathogens. Cooked foods pose a lower risk than raw produce.
Fresh fruits and vegetables remain an important part of a healthy diet. Following basic food safety practices can help protect you and your family as you continue to enjoy fresh produce. To further reduce your risk, stay informed about food recalls and public health advisories.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has additional information, as does Penn State Extension, which has released a Q&A on Cyclospora at https://www.psu.edu/ news/agricultural-sciences/ story/qa-how-stay-safe-cyclospora-parasite-causingstomach-bug-outbreak.
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Bryce Marathon: The half marathon is one of the most anticipated events of the year for our community, bringing together dedicated volunteers, first-time runners, and enthusiastic spectators. For a ‘small town,’ it’s a big event! This year’s theme was a meaningful reminder of how blessed we are to enjoy the freedoms of this great country and the beautiful little valley we proudly call home.
—Kami Brinkerhoff, marathon committee member
The Bryce Canyon Half Marathon & 5K held their 24th annual run, which included celebration of America’s 250th birthday, on July 11, 2026, with designated flag runners representing the Utah Army National Guard. On July 11th, 700 runners from across the continental United States, and even one from Germany, were welcomed. Anticipating the Semiquincentennial, committee members spent months planning and incorporating the America 250 theme into their theme, design, swag items, and race logistics.
Bryce Marathon Cont'd from A1
tinued to grow and be an economic boost event to rural Garfield County. The first year had 273 runners, and the largest year had 1800 registered runners. Due to the popularity of other nearby races, more recently, the marathon has averaged around 800-900 registered runners. Those runners stay in local motels and eat and shop at local businesses, and the event has a strong backing of sponsors from local businesses.
Joe Thompson, marathon committee member, said, “We have had great sponsors throughout the years at different levels who have helped with donations, staff, and equipment to make it possible.”
The committee would like to give special thanks and a shout out to the sponsors that help make this event successful every year. This event couldn’t happen without them.
On July 11th, 700 runners from across the continental United States, and even one from Germany, were welcomed. Anticipating the Semiquincentennial, committee members spent months planning and incorporating the America 250 theme into their theme, design, swag items, and race logistics.
“The half marathon is one of the most anticipated events of the year for our community, bringing together dedicated volunteers, first-time runners, and enthusiastic spectators. For a ‘small town,’ it’s a big event! This year’s theme was a meaningful reminder of how blessed we are to enjoy the freedoms of this great country and the beautiful little valley we proudly call home," said Kami Brinkerhoff, marathon committee member.
Different this year, and as part of that celebration, was the use of having flag runners from the Utah Army National Guard to start the races among patriotic music, dressed in their camouflage uniforms, and given a lead out to honor the flag and start the race. The patriotic vibes were felt among the runners,
volunteers, and spectators.
Jennifer Hughes, our lead flag runner, assembled her team of runners for the Bryce Canyon Half Marathon; they included her own husband, Corom Hughes, and colleagues Michael Judd and Andrew Orellano. Local resident from Panguitch, Bryson Henrie, was the flag runner for the 5K race. He joined the other National Guard members to cross the finish line of the half marathon after he finished the 5K race.
“Running Bryce Canyon and carrying the American flag was one of the most meaningful races I’ve ever been a part of," said Hughes. "I take great pride in putting on my uniform and representing the Utah Army National Guard. Wearing it while celebrating America’s 250th anniversary filled me with gratitude for our country, the freedoms we enjoy, and the opportunity to serve something greater than myself. I’m especially grateful for my family, especially my husband, who ran beside me, and for the incredible men and women who wear the uniform alongside me every step of the way.”
Runner Andrew Orellano said, “Running the Bryce Canyon Half Marathon while carrying the American flag was such a wonderful experience. The community was very welcoming and supportive of us and all the runners. It’s always a great day to be an American!”
The Bryce Canyon Half Marathon & 5K is an established non-profit organization where race proceeds are allocated to local community, school, and youth events to support their programs. Those seeking the support can complete an application, and funds are dispersed according to the request and fund availability. Some things that Bryce Canyon Half Marathon & 5K have been able to fund over the years are city park improvements, playground equipment, helmets for elementary students, memorials, youth programs within the schools, sports team equipment, etc. All committee members are strictly volunteers and put in many hours of planning and volunteering time. There are many
community volunteers that help put on the race event, as well, many of whom are the local school students. Volunteer hours are accumulated from water station groups, registration help with a sponsored dinner, start and finish line assistance, and some road support.
One volunteers, Joe Thompson, has been a committee member since the beginning event in 2003 and has helped with race logistics and offered start and finish line support. He is the father of the race’s creator, McKay Thompson. This year, Thompson has decided to cross his own finish line and retire from the committee and as a race volunteer, as his aspirations take him in a different direction. The committee would like to wish Thompson a very happy pursuit of his future goals and dreams and extend a sincerely heartfelt thank you for his many hours of help, work, and guidance.
Thompson said that it was fun to look back over the growth of the Bryce Canyon half marathon and 5K. “I have really enjoyed being a part of this race the past twenty-four years," he said. "Working with so many close friends, we’ve had fun times and each grew into their own part of the race. We love the runners and have watched many grow up and bring their families back to run. I personally have enjoyed serving with my fellow EMTs at the finish line and helping our runners finish their Bryce Canyon experience.”
Kami Brinkerhoff extends “a heartfelt thank you to our local volunteers, businesses, and residents who helped showcase the best of our community. Your generosity, hard work, and hospitality made this event possible. And to the runners and visitors who joined us—thank you for choosing to spend your day with us. We hope you enjoyed your time here and left with wonderful memories of our small town. Together, we made this year’s half marathon & 5K a celebration of freedom, community, and hometown pride.”
—Bryce Canyon Half Marathon & 5K
Courtesy Bryce Canyon Half Marathon & 5K
Wills, Trusts, and More
Dad Died With a Trust…Now What Do I Do?
Many people are familiar with trusts. In recent years, a trust has become a popular will substitute. Many people have decided to use a trust as opposed to a will in doing their estate planning. The primary purpose is to avoid probate and maintain privacy at the time of one’s death.
However, many people after doing their planning have the question, “What do I do when someone dies and I am named as a successor trustee?” First, although the trust avoids probate and makes estate administration easier, it does not avoid all headaches. When someone dies, even if there is a trust, there is work that must be done.
One of the first things needed in administering a trust estate is a death certificate. In fact, for most estate administrations it is advisable to obtain many death certificates. You may find it necessary to have an original death certificate for each asset owned by the
by Jeffery J. McKenna
trust.
Very often, the institution with the record of ownership for the asset wants an original death certificate to show that the successor trustee is now in authority. The good news is that if the asset is titled in the name of the trust, often nothing more than a death certificate is needed to clear title.
Upon the death of the trust maker, the successor trustee will need to contact all institutions and show the institutions that they are now the acting trustee and in control of the assets. In addition to the above directions, the successor trustee must be prepared to do an accounting to all beneficiaries. Additionally, the trustee will be responsible for paying all bills. Eventually, the trustee will distribute money or assets of the trust to the ben-
eficiaries. When this time comes, a prudent trustee should get a receipt and release from each of the beneficiaries. This document acknowledges receipt of the monies and releases the trustee from any further liability to that particular beneficiary.
As a final matter, there may be tax matters that the successor trustee must address. Likely, the trustee will need to obtain a tax identification number for the trust. This tax identification number becomes the way to identify the trust for IRS purposes.
Hopefully, this brief article provides some guidance to successor trustees. Although a trust can help significantly the estate administration process, it cannot eliminate all work related to the passing of a loved one.
Now with Richfield and Panguitch offices to serve clients in and around the surrounding counties.
Jeffery J. McKenna is a local attorney whose practice has been focused on Estate Planning for over 25 years.
He is licensed and serves clients in Utah, Arizona and Nevada. He is a shareholder at the law firm of Barney, McKenna and Olmstead.
If you have questions you would like addressed in these articles, please feel free to contact him at 435 628-1711 or jeff@bmo.law or visit the firm’s website at www.bmolawfirm.com. He would enjoy hearing from you.
tHe lAuGhiNg pOiNt!!
Dog for Sale
A man sees a sign in front of a house: “Talking Dog for Sale - $10.”
Curious, he knocks on the door, and the owner points him to the backyard. There’s a Labrador sitting there. The man says, “So… you talk?”
“Yep,” says the dog. The man’s jaw drops. “Wow! What’s your story?”
The dog says, “Well, I discovered my gift when I was young. I worked for the CIA for years, traveling the world, eavesdropping on spies. I even helped stop a few international incidents. After retiring, I volunteered at a children’s hospital, cheering up sick kids. Now I’m just relaxing.”
The man runs back to the owner. “This dog is amazing! Why on earth are you selling him for only $10?”
The owner shrugs. “Because he’s a liar. He’s never left the yard.”
Farmer Bill
Old Farmer Bill was known for two things: growing the biggest pumpkins in the county and having the worst memory in town.
One day, his neighbor asked, “Bill, how do you remember to water your pumpkins every day?”
Bill said, “Easy! I tie a string around my finger.”
The neighbor nodded. “And what’s the string for today?”
Bill looked at his hand, frowned, and said, “Oh no… I think I was supposed to remember to buy more string.”
THEME: History 101
ACROSS
1. Charlie "Bird" Parker's sax
5. Mary ____, businesswoman extraordinaire
8. Downloadable smartphone purchase
11. In ____ of
12. Greek salad staple
13. Appraisal
15. Law school prerequisite, acr.
16. "Once ____ a Time in America"
17. Dictum, pl.
18. *____ press, Johannes Gutenberg's invention
20. "Sittin' On the Dock of the Bay" singer
21. In need of a muffler
22. Make a choice
23. *Genghis Khan's ____ Empire
26. Intima, pl.
30. Fertility clinic stock
31. Tranquil
34. Famous Steeler coach, Chuck ____
35. Twisted cotton thread
37. Key next to spacebar
38. Like a gymnast
39. Naysayer's favorite prefix
40. Develop, as in story
42. ____-AFTRA
43. Famous fox of fable
45. Like a smell of soil 47. *World's first 24hour TV news network, acr. 48. Molten rock 50. Smoke plus fog 52. *First Roman emperor
55. Part of foot, pl. 56. Chowder protein 57. Pelvic parts 59. Are not
Wishes
A man walking along the beach finds a dusty old lamp. He rubs it, and a genie appears.
The genie says, “I’ll grant you three wishes, but whatever you wish for, your ex-wife will get double.”
The man thinks. “Alright…for my first wish, I want a million dollars.”
“Done,” says the genie. “Your ex-wife now has two million.”
“For my second wish, I want a mansion.”
“Done. Your ex-wife now has two mansions.”
The man pauses, then grins. “For my third wish…I want you to scare me half to death.”
Shower Thoughts
If you weigh 99 lbs and eat a pound of nachos, are you 1% nacho?
If at first you don’t succeed, then skydiving is not for you.
Pledge of Allegiance ending
Talk like Daffy
*Pres. during the
FYI Panguitch COLUMN
by Mack Oetting ~ mackoetting @gmail.com
car with a sign advertising
the 2026
It looks like the monsoons are over with. They were great while they lasted, even though we didn’t get much rain until the last two days. They sure did cool things down. On Sunday, there was a flash flood alert for an area out by Escalante. Beaver has had it rough. First they had fires that lasted for over two weeks, and then came the rain. It washed out some of the roads, and the mud did a lot of damage to many of their homes. As is the case in small towns, people came and helped those in need, in any way they could.
The 24th events went well, with the Panguitch Lions Club serving breakfast for over 280 people. This got them off to the big parade. It went really slow; the car that my daughter, Kelly, was driving got really hot, and we had to pull it out of the parade. Lots of people lined the street. Hopefully, the kids got plenty of candy.
The DUP program was really well done and had quite a few people there for a bit of history of Utah. The firefighters had thier annual luncheon, with a deep pit barbecue and all of the trimmings.
I was caught by surprise when our agriculture
want got shut down. Usually, there is a sign at the post office or something. You can use house water from 6:00 p.m. and 10:00 a.m., however, you do have to pay for it.
Summer is almost over. Football practice started on Monday, and school will be starting up in a couple of weeks. Where did the time go? We have already lost an hour of daylight. These warm summers and long summer evening sure help with the power bills
However, things are still happening. Up next will be the Garfield County Fair, and all of the fun things that go with it. Get in your art work, quilts, handicraft work and pictures, and get ready to enter for prizes. Saturday is when most of the fun begins. There will be horseshoe pitching, the fish pond, the talent show, and the commissioner's dinner. There is usually rides for the kids, also. Volunteers are always needed, so come on down.
Next up in a couple more weeks will be the annual ATV rally. This rally is really good because there are over sixteen different rides you can go on. It lasts for four days, and between three hundred and four hundred riders sign up. A lot
of locals go on the rides or help out.
The summer finishes up with our annual car show. Last year, there were nearly 100 cars for your viewing. It will be held on Labor Day weekend. It will finally give us something to do on that weekend. On Monday, you can go over to Parowan for the Iron County Fair and their really long parade.
The Panguitch Bobcats baseball team will be out defending their championship title for another year. The girls have some really good runners for this year’s cross country team, and they too will be defending their title. Volleyball will have a new coach and some returners from last year’s championship team. It is going to be a fun fall season, so get your season tickets early.
When I was born, life expectancy was only 58 years. Vaccines were perhaps the most important medical technology ever invented. During my life time, over 150 million lives (mostly children) have been saved by them. Just a couple of years ago, a new virus caused the Covid-19 pandemic. A vaccine became available that was over 90% effective in pre-
venting serious disease. Research has shown that it saved 20 million lives in just one year.
The president has appointed someone with no medical background to oversee the health of our nation. He doesn’t believe in vaccinations. Right now, there more measles case than there has been in 35 years, and we are just a little over half through the year so far. Not one of those cases had to happen. I wonder how many children have to die before it dawns on these parents.
The president, it seems, didn’t learn from the previous court's finding that he didn’t have a right to put tariffs on countries, and, because of the fires up in Canada, he is imposing new tariffs on them.
It wasn’t too many years ago that he told California that they wouldn’t have as many fires if they trimmed up their tree areas like they do in Canada. This year, Canada has already had 3,000 fires.
In the latest polls, Fox News had the president’s approval rating at 22%. That is what it was when he left office the first time.
Mack O
Jaynie Connor
A
the Cruizin' Old 89 Car Show in Panguitch on Sept. 4-5 drives past during
Panguitch Pioneer Day Parade on July 24.
CRNP Orchards: Capitol Reef is one of more than 130 national parks, recreation areas and historic sites that preserve orchards. What makes Capitol Reef’s orchards especially remarkable is the harsh desert environment in which the trees grow. Fruit trees thriving in this landscape are not something you see every day.
In the Jackson Orchard at Capitol Reef National Park, visitors may have the special opportunity to bite into a Capitol Reef red apple. Generally available mid-August through mid-October, these apples have a pale-yellow base with a blush of red and are juicy with every bite.
CRNP Orchards
Cont'd from A1
The historic irrigation ditches are one reason the trees still thrive today. When the orchards were first planted, pioneers dug long rows of ditches to carry water from the Fremont River through the orchard. That legacy continues: the fruit trees are now cared for using historic standards that intentionally preserve the same conditions and agricultural practices that sustained the orchards when the first settlers arrived in the area.
Capitol Reef has permanent, dedicated staff responsible for the historic care of the orchards. Their work includes pruning during the winter, managing irrigation during the spring and summer and assisting with fruit harvests throughout the summer and fall.
During harvest season, visitors may also meet volunteer orchard docents.
These knowledgeable volunteers can answer questions about the orchard’s history, the fruit currently available for harvest, and other aspects of this trea-
sured landscape. Throughout the Fruita area of Capitol Reef, nineteen designated historic orchards can be found along Highway 24 and the Scenic Drive. Each orchard contains a variety of fruit and nut trees.
In the Jackson Orchard, visitors may have the special opportunity to bite into a Capitol Reef red apple. Generally available mid-August through midOctober, these apples have a pale-yellow base with a blush of red and are juicy with every bite.
Peaches are another popular fruit found in this desert landscape. Originally cultivated in China around 2000 B.C., five varieties of peaches can be found in Capitol Reef. The peach harvest generally occurs in July and August. You may want to eat these peaches outdoors—or over the sink—because every bite can send juice dripping down your hand to your elbow.
Although visitors may enjoy peaches and apples at Capitol Reef this summer and fall, successful harvests are never guaranteed.
Throughout the orchards’ history, pioneers have lost numerous trees and even entire orchards to flooding and drought. Those challenges continue today. In recent years, early spring warmth followed by late frosts has caused fruit losses during several growing seasons.
Since Capitol Reef was designated a national park in 1971, nearly 1,000 trees have been lost due to age, disease, and poor soil conditions. Despite these losses, the park continues to invest in the orchards by planting new fruit trees each spring as the weather begins to warm.
This season has already welcomed cherries, apricots, peaches and apples. Call the park’s fruit hotline or visit the alerts and conditions webpage for the latest orchard updates.
Will you be there for the next fruit harvest?
Fruit hotline: 435425-3791, press 1 for more information, then 5 for orchards Web updates: https:// www.nps.gov/care/planyourvisit/conditions.htm
—National Park Service
‘Grease’ Slides Into the Tuacahn Rotation Bringing Joy to Cast, Fans
IVINS - This summer at Tuacahn, it’s not all French Revolution and a search for a clown fish named Nemo. Beginning July 17, we’re heading back to high school— 1950s style—complete with leather jackets, Rydell High pom poms and enough classic cars to make you wish those “Summer Nights” would never end in this season’s Grease Following a sizzling summer romance, Danny Zuko is nearly toppled off his spot in the high school social pyramid when his summertime fling, Sandy Dumbrowski, moves into his school. Amid the timeless challenges of teen life Danny, Sandy, the Burger Palace Boys and the Pink Ladies explore themes of friendship, love and loyalty, and ultimately finding who they want to be, all in a more family-friendly, version of this popular show.
“Grease is one of our most requested shows every time we do a patron survey,” said Scott Anderson, artistic director for Tuacahn. “We’re really excited to bring such a dynamic version to life on our stage, with just a few adaptations to really meet the needs of our audience.”
It’s not just the patrons who can’t wait for this musical. Many of the
cast and crew have had Grease on a short list of productions they’re dying to perform. Take Kyle Southern, for example. After spending his childhood hearing the music and seeing the film, he was thrilled to get the call that he would be playing none other than leading man Danny Zuko.
“Grease was my mom’s favorite movie when I was growing up,” Southern said. “John Travolta made such an iconic character out of this role. He was so cool and tough, but also funny and vulnerable.”
Now Southern is walking the line between paying homage to Travolta’s stellar performance and adding a flavor of his own. It’s a process he absolutely loves.
“I’ve done a lot of work finding Danny’s walk, how he moves and how he stands,” Southern said. “There’s so much of any character in the way that he moves. And I have some ‘50s music I listen to as I’m getting ready for the show; things I think Danny would really be into.”
Those smooth, cool guy moves, are being explored by more than just Southern. One of the highlights of this production for fellow cast member, Julianne Roberts, who plays Betty Rizzo, is the unbelievable dance steps peppering the show.
“As a dancer, there is
so much to love,” Roberts said. “We have crazy partnering stuff, so many flips and lifts…it’s just a fun show all around.”
With songs like “Hand Jive” and “Greased Lightnin’” coming up on the radar as all out spectacles and likely fan favorites, Roberts said she also appreciates the depth her character, Rizzo, gets to explore in her pivotal number, “There Are Worse Things I Could Do."
"I just think every person who comes to this show will find a character on stage that will resonate with them,” Roberts said. “They all fit the high school friend group archetypes in such a perfect way.”
And while there are definite messages underlying the script and score— namely friendship and finding your tribe—it’s also a production filled with pure entertainment and joy.
“For me, I go to the theater to be entertained, to escape from the real world, and Grease is a great opportunity for people to come relax, and laugh,” Roberts said.
Don’t miss your opportunity to revel in the music and movement of Grease playing now through Oct. 22 in the Tuacahn Outdoor Amphitheatre. For details and tickets, go online to www.tuacahn.org or call the box office at 435-6523300.
—Tuacahn Amphitheatre
NPS/T. Lovell
Out & About for the Summer
Photo Gallery: 2026 Panguitch Pioneer Day Parade
by Jaynie Connor
Jaynie Connor
Grand Marshall David Owens with his wife, Lorraine; members of Panguitch City Council; and Panguitch
Mayor Kim Soper during the 2026 Panguitch Pioneer Day Parade on July 24.
Jaynie Connor
The Daughters of the Utah Pioneers Band float during the 2026 Panguitch Pioneer Day Parade on July 24.
Jaynie Connor
Fire trucks spray the crowd during the 2026 Panguitch Pioneer Day Parade on July 24.
Jaynie Connor
The Garfield County 4-H program float during the 2026 Panguitch Pioneer Day Parade on July 24.
A hot rod parades by the corner of Center and Main streets during the 2026 Panguitch Pioneer Day Parade on July 24.
Jaynie Connor
The Garfield County Panguitch ambulance crew preps for the 2026 Panguitch Pioneer Day Parade on July 24.
Jaynie Connor
Jaynie Connor
Bob Orton Trucking lines up in the parade line during the 2026 Panguitch Pioneer Day Parade on July 24.
Cowboy Camp: I started Cowboy Camp to give the next generation the same opportunities I was afforded growing up. As producers, it’s our responsibility to develop an agriculturally literate society. It’s rewarding watching the youth campers learn how agriculture touches every part of their lives, and grow in their confidence to enter the conversation and become advocates for this industry.
—Heather Thomson, a Utah 4-H Program Coordinator
Thirty-five 4-H youth campers from across the state gathered in Bryce Canyon and were able to explore agriculture through a variety of activities at Utah 4-H's 5th annual Cowboy Camp from July 7-9. On the second day, camp participants enjoyed a guided mule ride by Mecham Outfitters through Willis Creek Narrows. Youth campers also participated in archery, canoeing, roping, and writing and sharing their own cowboy poetry.
creates legislation to support agriculture, or as an informed consumer.
"I started Cowboy Camp to give the next generation the same opportunities I was afforded growing up. As producers, it’s our responsibility to develop an agriculturally literate society. It’s rewarding watching the youth campers learn how agriculture touches every part of their lives, and grow in their confidence to enter the conversation and become advocates for this industry," said Thomson.
This year, thirty-five 4-H youth campers from across the state gathered in Bryce Canyon and were able to explore agriculture through a variety of activities.
On the first day of camp, participants took part in a mock 4-H Envirothon where they learned about soil types, how farmers and ranchers care for the land, and about the
importance of pollinators. They also studied wildlife identification, the difference between native and invasive fish species, and the current issue of drought. Youth camp participants were able to apply the knowledge learned in the Envirothon when they participated in a fishing challenge at Pine Lake, visited Bryce Canyon National Park, and planted a small pollinator garden.
On the second day, camp participants enjoyed a guided mule ride by Mecham Outfitters through Willis Creek Narrows, toured the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources Mammoth Creek Fish Hatchery, and tried their skills at leatherworking. Youth campers also participated in archery, canoeing, roping, and writing and sharing their own cowboy poetry. They finished off the night by hearing from a published cowboy poet, Dakota Holdaway.
The 4-H mission is to empower young people with the skills to become
“Beyond Ready” for work and life. These young people learned this as they were able to give back to the town of Tropic, Utah, as they participated in a group service project. The week concluded with the presentation of the Top Hand Award, which recognized the participant who demonstrated outstanding leadership and a strong understanding of the knowledge and skills taught throughout the week while embodying the mission of Cowboy Camp.
Cowboy camp would not be possible without the support of grants and sponsors. Funding was provided through the Division of Outdoor Recreation and the Utah Children’s Outdoor Recreation Education Grant, as well as Utah Farm Bureau, Bryce Canyon Inn, Bryce Canyon Mule Days, The Pizza Place, Smoky Mountain Meats, and Cal Ranch. These sponsors helped provide industry experts, locally grown commodities, guided the mule rides, and provided lodg-
Wayne Commission:
Wayne Commission Cont'd from A1
projects. Commissioners approved allowing R6 to lead the planning effort and apply for grant funding on the county's behalf.
Approval for moving forward with a countywide master recreation plan, Sevier Valley Hospital's 2025 charity care and community benefit report, and hiring of McGrath Human Resource Group to conduct a countywide review of employee pay discussed. hired McGrath Human Resource Group to conduct a countywide review of employee pay. The $20,000 study will compare Wayne County wages with similar employers, review job classifications and personnel policies, and help implement any recommended changes. Officials said the work should be completed in time to help guide next year's budget discussions.
ing. Each of these sponsors played a part in supporting the agriculture literacy mission of Cowboy Camp.
—Utah 4-H Cowboy Camp
Representatives from Sevier Valley Hospital, part of Intermountain Health, presented the hospital's 2025 charity care and community benefit report, highlighting its nonprofit mission to provide care regardless of a patient's ability to pay. Officials said the hospital continues focusing on mental health, chronic disease, access to care through telehealth and outreach clinics, and other community health needs while providing more than $3.7 million in charity care and community benefits last year. "I'm biased. I worked for not-for-profit health systems my whole career," Brent Schmidt, hospital president, said. "We're reinvesting the money we make into the health and wellness of the community." Commissioners also discussed the hospital's helicopter service and how expanded specialty care and telehealth have reduced the need for Wayne County residents to travel for treatment.
The commission also
In other business, commissioners approved the hiring of Kale Bradbury for the road department, Kyler Hallows for the county's weeds and mosquito abatement program, and Bronson Wood as assistant sanitation manager. The board also approved a new cooperative agreement with Utah State University Extension, appointed Melissa Robbins to the Wayne County Boundary Commission, confirmed three appointments to the Wayne County Water Conservancy District board, and accepted a second-quarter financial report showing county finances generally remain on track.
The Wayne County Commission meets the first and third Monday of every month at the Wayne County Courthouse in Loa.
Courtesy Kaitlyn Lunt
Cowboy Camp Cont'd from A1
Escalante Yurts: Beyond the breathtaking scenery, we want guests to feel they’ve found a place where they can truly leave their daily stresses behind. This is a special spot to slow down, reset, and reconnect; with nature, with themselves, and with a community that still values genuine community.
Scott’s family roots run deep in Escalante. When Scott’s father retired, he bought thirty acres in the area and built a home.
“Scott had been visiting relatives in the area his whole life, and after we married, we started bringing our own kids to see their grandpa," said Jan. "When Jerry wanted to sell the property to a family member and keep it in the family, we knew we’d have to find a way to make a living in this small, rural town. Over the years of visiting, we saw tourism growing steadily and recognized there was room for more lodging, especially something different.”
Escalante Yurts is just that and offers a unique, memorable experience that didn’t exist in the area, and their property was perfect for creating private accommodations.
“We didn’t want to build just another place to sleep, we wanted to create an experience," said Jan. "Escalante’s scenery is breathtaking, with adventure around every corner, and we set out to make the lodging match that same spirit of wonder and discovery.”
The yurts offer a completely different experience than a traditional hotel. Each yurt is equipped with a private en-suite bathroom and shower. The round design and domed roof create an amazingly spacious and airy feel inside, while each yurt sits privately apart from the others for a true sense of seclusion.
“There’s a special charm to it that you just don’t get in a standard room,” says Jan, “Above all, we hope guests leave with a feeling of deep peace and renewal. This is a place to disconnect from the noise and rush of everyday life. Many are thrilled to see jackrabbits or deer wandering through the property, and for quite a few, spotting the Milky Way glowing overhead for the first time is a memory they’ll carry with them long after they’ve gone home.” Jan continued, “Our hope is that it grows in a way that supports the community, respects the fragile desert environment, and allows future generations to enjoy this one-of-a-kind place, just as we do today.”
These yurts are constructed with sturdy flooring, robust framing, superior insulation, and top-quality, heavy-duty canvas. They provide a spacious and serene atmosphere, elegantly adorned and exceptionally comfortable all year round. Guests are able to relax under the domed ceiling on a chilly autumn night, or they can savor a cool and inviting escape during the sweltering desert summer. Jan stated guests are oftern surprised when they arrive. “We love watching guests walk in and realize they’ve found something truly special: luxury lodging in the heart of one of America’s most spectacular landscapes,” she said.
The Roundys started accepting guests back in the year 2017, and the business has continued to evolve year after year.
Habitat Projects:
—Jan Roundy, Escalante
Yurts
Yurts, located just outside the town of Es-
is owned by
and
The yurts offer a completely different experience than a traditional hotel. Each yurt is equipped with a private en-suite bathroom and shower. The round design and domed roof create an amazingly spacious and airy feel inside, while each yurt sits privately apart from the others for a true sense of seclusion.
They host guests from all over the world who come not only to see Bryce Canyon National Park, but, more specifically, the areas surrounding Escalante.
Jan stated the Covid-19 pandemic had them making adjustments in the first few years of operation. “At first, we were very hands-on, personally greeting every guest no matter how late they arrived. Then the pandemic hit. Bookings evaporated almost overnight, and we wondered if we’d survive. But once travel resumed, Escalante
and Garfield County exploded in popularity.”
Having to adapt quickly, the Roundys implemented smooth, contactless checkin systems.
“Interestingly, many guests still prefer that option even now," said Jan. "While we’ve become more flexible with late arrivals, the most rewarding part of this business remains the same: connecting with our guests. Everyone has a story, and we love hearing where they’re from and what adventures brought them to
While we have made significant progress in restoring and preserving winter ranges for deer over the past 15 years, we are increasing our efforts to restore deer summer range areas and transition ranges, as well. By using innovative mechanical treatments, prescribed fire and proactive wildfire rehabilitation, our division and our many partners remain committed to resolving ecological bottlenecks and ensuring Utah’s mule deer populations thrive for generations to come
Habitat Projects
our corner of Utah.”
The Roundy family wishes for their guests to discover Garfield County, especially Escalante, as a place teeming with truly warm and inviting individuals. They are immensely thankful to call this unique corner of the world their home, and they express their gratitude through the hospitality they extend to their visitors.
“Beyond the breathtaking scenery, we want guests to feel they’ve found a place where they can truly leave their daily stresses behind. This is
a special spot to slow down, reset, and reconnect; with nature, with themselves, and with a community that still values genuine community,” said Jan.
through Utah’s Watershed Restoration Initiative and the DWR Habitat Council, which coordinate, facilitate and promote habitat restoration projects that improve the quality and quantity of habitats for deer and other wildlife.
Cont'd from A1 has experienced large mudslides in past years. This project helped improve big game summer and winter range habitats on the WMA. It also reduced wildfire risks, stabilized the soil, and improved the water quantity and quality by installing 100 beaver dam analog structures along Twelve Mile Creek to help reduce erosion.
several years, the DWR has prioritized habitat restoration projects and other projects that will directly benefit deer and help grow their populations. From July 2024 to June 2025, $55 million in funding went toward 133 deer-related habitat projects, totaling more than 114,277 acres restored or preserved across Utah. Forty-nine partners also contributed to the funding of these deer-specific projects.
“While we have made significant progress in restoring and preserving winter ranges for deer over the past 15 years, we are increasing our efforts to restore deer summer range areas and transition ranges, as well,” DWR Habitat Restoration Coordinator Daniel Eddington said. “By using innovative mechanical treatments, prescribed fire and proactive wildfire rehabilitation, our division and our many partners remain committed to resolving ecological bottlenecks and ensuring Utah’s mule deer populations thrive for generations to come.”
Many of the projects were administered
“One of the problems we are currently facing is that many of the ecosystems that deer rely on for food have limited or older vegetation with limited nutritional value—or those ecosystems are being impacted by ongoing drought conditions,” Eddington said. “For mule deer populations to thrive in Utah, it is essential that extensive habitat treatments be completed to revert sagebrush habitat areas back to young, shrub-dominated plant communities and to restore aspen communities.”
The Utah Mule Deer Statewide Management Plan has a goal to improve the quality and quantity of vegetation for mule deer on a minimum of 600,000 acres of crucial range from December 2024 through December 2030. Some of the completed projects to help with this goal include:
• Acquiring land for deer and other wildlife: In 2025, the DWR acquired a total of 4,488 acres for deer and other wildlife.
The new Cook Wildlife Management Area, located in Daggett County, provides 1,600 acres of important summer habitat for deer and other big game animals in the area. The DWR also acquired additional land that was added to the East Canyon WMA in Morgan County, which provides crucial winter range for deer and elk.
• Willow Watershed improvements project in the Book Cliffs area of Uintah County: This was an ongoing multiyear project that helped provide additional feed and improved the streambed in the area. Habitat-restoration crews removed trees that were crowding out other more-beneficial plants, reseeded the area and worked to maintain and build new beaver dam analog structures to help reduce erosion in Willow and Meadow creeks. This latest phase of the project helped plant several trees and bushes and provided fencing structures to protect them.
Twelve-Mile Watershed restoration project: This project was located on the Twelve-Mile Wildlife Management Area in Sanpete County, which
Gooseberry habitat restoration project: This project helped improve winter range habitat for deer and other big game near Salina, through thinning encroaching trees and aerial reseeding of the area with beneficial plants. Habitatrestoration crews also built a fence to help protect a wetland and spring in the area, and installed a solar pump and trough to provide additional water sources.
These most recent projects were an increase from the previous fiscal year’s 115 projects that specifically benefited mule deer. Visit the DWR website to learn more about what the DWR is doing to help deer populations in Utah.
—Utah Division of Wildlife Resources
Escalante
calante,
Scott
Jan Roundy (right).
Photos Courtesy Scott and Jan Roundy
Escalante Yurts
NOTICE TO WATER USERS
The applications below were filed with the Division of Water Rights in Wayne County. These are informal proceedings per Rule 655-6-2. Protests concerning an application must be legibly written or typed, contain the name and mailing address of the protesting party, STATE THE APPLICATION NUMBER PROTESTED, CITE REASONS FOR THE PROTEST, and REQUEST A HEARING, if desired. Also, A $15 FEE MUST BE INCLUDED FOR EACH APPLICATION PROTESTED. Protests must be filed with the Division of Water Rights on or before Aug. 26, 2026 either electronically using the Division`s on-line Protest of Application form, by hand delivery to a Division office, or by mail at PO Box 146300, Salt Lake City, UT 84114-6300. Please visit waterrights.utah.gov or call (801)538-7240 for additional information.
GARFIELD COUNTY
NEW APPLICATION(S)
97-2556 (A85276): Driven Horizons LLC propose(s) using 1.73 ac-ft. from groundwater (17 miles NE of Henrieville) for DOMESTIC; IRRIGATION; STOCKWATERING.
97-2557 (A85287): Gregory Vidrine propose(s) using 1.73 ac-ft. from groundwater (Escalante) for DOMESTIC; IRRIGATION; STOCKWATERING.
CHANGE APPLICATION(S)
97-2023 (a54847): Thomas R. and Caroline Hoyt propose(s) using 0.3 cfs from groundwater (2 miles E of Boulder) for IRRIGATION.
61-3641 (a54857): Family Trust of The George R. Aiken Jr. and Donna M. Aiken Revocable Trust propose(s) using 0.7 ac-ft. from groundwater (3 Miles NE of Hatch, UT) for IRRIGATION; STOCKWATERING.
61-3196 (a54860): Weston Shakespeare and Cindy Shakespeare propose(s) using 0.0009 cfs OR 0.25 ac-ft. from groundwater (8 miles west of Hatch) for DOMESTIC.
61-3405 (a54881): Family Trust of The George R. Aiken Jr. and Donna M. Aiken Revocable Trust propose(s) using 0.55 ac-ft. from groundwater (1 mile south of Hatch, UT) for DOMESTIC; IRRIGATION.
EXTENSION(S)
61-2761 (a33021): Jason Carter and Kelley Carter is/are filing an extension for 0.0039 cfs OR 0.25 ac-ft. from groundwater (8 miles West of Hatch) for DOMESTIC.
KANE COUNTY
CHANGE APPLICATION(S)
61-3642 (a54856): Family Trust of The George R. Aiken Jr. and Donna M. Aiken Revocable Trust propose(s) using 0.45 ac-ft. from groundwater (3.5 miles N of Alton UT) for DOMESTIC.
WAYNE COUNTY
EXTENSION(S)
95-5185 (A76916): Barry Scholl and Tiffany Scholl is/are filing an extension for 1.48 ac-ft. from groundwater (Grover) for DOMESTIC; IRRIGATION; STOCKWATERING.
Teresa Wilhelmsen, P.E.
State Engineer
Published in The Wayne and Garfield County Insider on JULY 30 and AUGUST 6, 2026
INVITATION TO BID
HANKSVILLE TOWN
The Town of Hanksville is actively accepting bids for the construction of two reinforced cement pads at the Hanksville Gun Range. Contractors must submit their proposals before the formal opening at the Town Council meeting on August 6, 2026.
Project Title: Hanksville Gun Range Cement Pads Construction
Project Specifications
• Quantity: 2 cement pads
• Dimensions: 25' x 25' each
• Thickness: 5 inches thick
• Elevation: 6 inches above grade
• Reinforcement: Fully reinforced (rebar/wire mesh as per standard civic specs)
• Location: Hanksville Gun Range
Bidders can submit their sealed proposals via email or standard mail to the Town Clerk:
• By Email: clerk@hanksvilleutah.gov
• By Mail: PO Box 127, Hanksville, UT 84734
Direct all questions to Mayor Pei at Jeffren@hanksvilleutah.gov
Published in The Wayne and Garfield County Insider on JULY 30 and AUGUST 6, 2026
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TORREY TOWN
There will be a public hearing to discuss the Torrey Annexation Petition for the area referred to as “River Drive West Addition.”
Public comments are invited.
August 13, 2026, at 7:00PM at the Torrey Town Office
The petition and the map are available at the Town Office, 75 E 100 North, Bay #1, Torrey, Utah
Published in The Wayne and Garfield County Insider on JULY 30 and AUGUST 6, 2026
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
DISTRICT COURT, STATE OF UTAH, GARFIELD COUNTY 55 South Main Street, Panguitch, Utah 84759, Telephone: (435) 676-1104; Facsimile: (435) 676-8239. IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JAMES LEE
TAYLOR deceased, NOTICE TO CREDITORS, Case No. 263600010, Assigned: JUDGE VAN DYKE. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that SUZANNE HONEY was appointed as Personal Representative of the estate of JAMES LEE TAYLOR and creditors of the estate are given notice to present their claims to BARRY L. HUNTINGTON, attorney for the estate, P.O. Box 388, 55 South Main Street, Panguitch, Utah 84759, within 3 months after the first publication of this notice or be forever barred. DATED this 17th day of July, 2026. BARRY L. HUNTINGTON
Published in The Wayne and Garfield County Insider on JULY 23 & 30 and AUGUST 6 & 13, 2026
PUBLIC HEARING ON ANNEXATION POLICY PLAN
LOA PLANNING COMMISSION
Loa Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on an annexation policy plan during its regularly scheduled meeting on August 5, 2026, beginning at 6:30 pm. All public is welcome to attend and comment on this annexation policy plan. If you would like a copy of the annexation policy plan, please contact Michelle Brian or Amber Perkins at 435-836-2160 prior to the hearing.
Published in The Wayne and Garfield County Insider on JULY 23 & 30, 2026
PUBLIC HEARING ON ANNEXATION POLICY PLAN LOA PLANNING
COMMISSION
Loa Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on Annexation Policy Plan during its regularly scheduled meeting on August 5, 2026, beginning at 6:30 pm at the Loa Town Hall Office at 80 West Center, Loa. All public is welcome to attend and comment on this policy plan. If you would like a copy of the policy plan, please contact Michelle Brian or Amber Perkins at 435-836-2160 prior to the hearing.
Published in The Wayne and Garfield County Insider on JULY 30, 2026
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
DOCUMENT 00 11 13.17
WAYNE COUNTY, 18 SOUTH MAIN, PO BOX 189, LOA, UTAH 84747
General Notice:
Wayne County (Owner) is requesting Bids for the construction of the following Project: Wayne Wonderland Airport Prairie Dog Fence.
Bids for the construction of the Project will be received at the Commission Chambers located at the Wayne County Courthouse, 18 South Main, Loa, Utah 84747, until Friday, August 14, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. local time. At that time, the Bids received will be publicly opened and read.
The Project includes the following Work: Installation of approximately 15,675 linear feet of chain link prairie dog and wildlife fencing, gates, gravel road improvements, and associated work. Bids will be received for a single contract.
Owner anticipates that the Project’s total bid price will be approximately $940,000. The Project has an expected duration of 90 days. Construction may not commence prior to May 1, 2027.
Obtaining Bidding Documents:
Information and Bidding Documents for the Project can be found at Contractor Portal (https://contractors.jonesanddemille.com/).
The designated website will be updated with addenda, plan holders list, reports, and other information relevant to submitting a Bid for the Project. Official notifications, addenda, and other Bidding Documents will be offered through the designated website.
The Issuing Office for the Bidding Documents is: Jones & DeMille Engineering, Inc., 1535 South 100 West, Richfield, Utah 84701. Only electronic copies of Bidding Documents will be issued.
Neither Owner nor Engineer will be responsible for full or partial sets of Bidding Documents, including addenda, if any, obtained from sources other than the designated website.
Questions are due in writing to Koy Barton, Project Engineer, at koy.b@jonesanddemille.com on or before Friday, August 7, 2026, at 11:00 A.M.
Pre-bid Conference:
A pre-bid conference for the Project will be held on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at 11:00 A.M. local time at the Commission Chambers of the Wayne County Courthouse, 18 South Main, Loa, Utah 84747.
Attendance at the pre-bid conference is encouraged but not required.
Instructions to Bidders:
This Project is partially funded by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and is subject to Made in America Laws, affirmative action to ensure equal employment opportunity, minimum wage rates established by the Secretary of Labor, and other federal requirements indicated in the Bidding Documents.
Wayne County (Owner), in accordance with the provisions of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (78 Stat. 252, 42 USC §§ 2000d to 2000d-4) and the Regulations, hereby notifies all Bidders or offerors that it will affirmatively ensure that for any Contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement, disadvantaged business enterprises will be afforded full and fair opportunity to submit Proposals in response to this invitation and no businesses will be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, national origin (including limited English proficiency), creed, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), age, or disability in consideration for an award.
For further requirements regarding bid submittal, qualifications, procedures, and contract award, refer to the Instructions to Bidders that are included in the Bidding Documents. The Owner may reject any or all Bids submitted.
Issued by:
Owner: Wayne County
By: Roger Brian
Title: County Commissioner
Date: 7/30/2026
Published in The Wayne and Garfield County Insider on JULY 30 and AUGUST 6 & 13, 2026
NAMI Utah Connection Support Group - Online
For people with mental health conditions Mon, Wed, Fri 7:00 - 8:30 pm | Wed 12:30 - 2:00 pm Sat 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
NAMI Family Support Group - Online
For loved ones of people with mental health conditions Mon, Tues, Thurs 7:00 - 8:30 pm Register at namiut.org
C lassified a ds
We are looking for friendly, hardworking professionals who enjoy the hospitality industry and interaction with guests.
POSITIONS AVAILABLE: Front Desk Agents
Laundry Services
Housekeepers Maintenance Bellmen
Positions to start April 1st through October 31st At Capitol Reef Resort we promote from within. Please stop by in person to complete an application. We are located at 2600 E SR 24, Torrey, UT 84775 435-425-3761
Position Announcements
POSITIONS AVAILABLE: Garfield County School District is hiring for the following positions. For the application process and description of each, please see the district website www.garfk12.org
• Para-Professionals at Bryce Valley Elementary School
• Boys Head Track Coach at Panguitch High School
• Girls Head Track Coach at Panguitch High School
• Student Support Para at Panguitch High School
• Food Service Worker at Escalante Elementary/High School
• Para-Professional at Panguitch High School
• Substitutes for Teachers, Custodians, and Food Service Workers
SALARY: Please see 2025-2026 Garfield County School Districts Classified, District Office, and Certified Salary Schedules on the district website.
QUALIFICATIONS: Applicants must be fingerprinted and satisfactorily pass an employment background check.
Garfield County School District is an equal opportunity employer. Garfield County School District reserves the right to accept or reject any or all applications.
MEETINGS
TROPIC AA MEETING
Wednesday at 6 PM. Tropic Heritage Center. All meetings are closed discussion. Escalante AA Meeting Tues. & Fri. at 6pm 190 W. Main St., Escalante
The only requirement is the desire to stop drinking.
Join our team as a motivated Dental Assistant. Are you a dedicated and enthusiastic individual seeking a rewarding career in the dental Field?
Escalante Dental is currently seeking a Part-Time Dental Assistant to join our dynamic team. Why choose Escalante Dental?
• Competitive benefits package tailored to your working hours
• An inclusive and supportive work environment
• Opportunity for professional growth and development
Position Overview:
As a Dental Assistant at Escalante Dental, you will play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of our dental practice. Your responsibilities will include:
• Interacting with patients in a friendly and compassionate manner
• Proficiently taking X-rays and supporting chair-side procedures
• Managing scheduling, charting, and documenting dental visits using computer systems
• Ensuring thorough sterilization of dental instruments
• Setting up and maintaining a clean and organized operatory and office space
Preferred Qualifications (not required):
We value experience, but are also excited to provide training to individuals new to the field. If you have any of the following qualifications, it’s a plus:
• Dental assisting experience
• Exposure to Pediatric, Endodontic, Oral Surgery, and General Dentistry
• Familiarity with computer charting and Digital X-rays
• X-ray Certification
• CPR Certification
How to Apply:
We encourage all interested candidates to apply, regardless of your level of experience. I you’re passionate about dental health and eager to contribute to a supportive team, we want to hear from you! Please email your resume to aellett@waynechc.org and take the first step toward an exciting career with Escalante Dental.
Join us in making a difference in the lives of our patients. Apply today!
The Wayne Community Health Centers are committed to providing high quality health services to our communities’ residents and visitors. Its purpose is to provide quality health services to all people including those facing financial, geographic and/or cultural barriers to healthcare.
Senior Center Cook
SERVICES
When in Need, There are Resources in Wayne & Garfield Cos. For Victims of Domestic Violence, Rape, and Sexual Assault
Canyon Creek Services Emergency Safehouse 435-865-7443 Mobile Team 435-233-5732
New Horizons Crisis Center
145 East 100 North, Richfield Office Hours
8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Shelter is open 24 hrs, 7 days a week Phone Number 435-896-9294
Counseling Services
Central Utah Counseling Richfield Office
255 S Main Street, Richfield Office Hours 435-896-8236
24 Hour Emergency Service 877-469-2822
Southwest Behavioral Health Center
601 E Center Street, Panguitch 435-676-8176
24 Hour Emergency Service 800-574-6763
Wayne Community Health Center
128 South 300 West Bicknell, 84715 435-425-3744
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255
Suicide and Crisis Lifeline 988
Garfield County is accepting applications for part-time kitchen help at the Tropic and Panguitch Senior Citizen’s Center. Working hours are Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Applications are available at the Garfield County Clerk’s Office, 55 South Main, Panguitch or at www.garfield.utah.gov and will be accepted until July 31st, 2026 Garfield County reserves the right to accept or reject any or all applications. Garfield County is an equal opportunity employer
Part-Time Librarian
Panguitch City
Panguitch City is accepting applications for a Part-Time Librarian (15–25 hours per week).
Responsibilities include assisting patrons, Storytime, Summer Reading Program, circulation, shelving and processing books, technology assistance, and other daily library operations.
Applications, cover letter, and resume must be received by 5:00 p.m. on Monday, August 10, 2026.
Apply at the Panguitch City Office or email mat@panguitchutah.gov. Full job description and application available at panguitchutah.gov. Panguitch City is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Announcement of Positions 2026-27 School Year
Secondary Math Teacher
Wayne School District is accepting applications for the following position: Secondary Math Teacher Wayne High School - This person will be responsible for educating high school age children by creating and implementing lesson plans for Math Classes. You will assess student progress, manage classroom behavior, communicate with parents, and collaborate with colleagues to foster a positive learning environment. Applicants must also possess a knowledge of the subject matter and appropriate instructional methodologies, good communication skills, patience, creativity, and be proficient working as a member of a team.
Candidates need to have a Bachelor’s Degree and Utah Secondary Teaching License, and a Level 4 Math Endorsement; or be working toward these credentials. Candidates seeking an intern position will be considered.
This position is Full-Time and includes Leave, Insurance, and Retirement Benefits. Pay is according to Experience and the Wayne School District Salary Schedule.
Interested individuals may fill out a Teacher Application at Wayne School District Office, 79 North 100 West, Bicknell, UT or found online at http://www. waynesd.org/images/pdf/Employment/TeacherApp.pdf
Interested individuals should submit a Letter detailing their interest in the position, their qualifications, and their experience. A current Resume, a University Transcript showing all course work, a copy of Applicant’s Teaching License, and two Letters of Recommendation should accompany the Teacher Application. Applications for any positions may be submitted in person or electronically to randy.shelley@waynesd.org and/or jennifer.batty@waynesd.org
CLOSING DATE: Open until filled, with the first review of application on August 5. Wayne School District is an equal opportunity employer and reserves the right to reject any or all applications. Applicants are considered on the basis of employment qualifications without regard to race, color, political affiliation, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, medical condition, or disability.
