Issuu

keep

North Wash Boat Ramp Construction Complete

GLEN CANYONThe Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation (DOR), in partnership with Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and the Public Lands Policy Coordination Office, has completed construction of a new boat ramp at North Wash, helping preserve critical takeout access for private boaters, commercial outfitters and river recreation economies tied to Cataract Canyon on the Colorado River.

“Reliable river access is critical not only for recreation, but for the guides, outfitters, local communities and tourism economies connected to Cataract Canyon,” said Jason Curry, director of the Division of Outdoor Recreation.

“This project represents a strong collaborative effort to adapt to chang -

North Wash Cont'd on B3

Amiee Maxwell

HANKSVILLE - For Chase Stem, a recent aerospace engineering graduate from the Missouri University of Science and Technology and CEO of the winning

SALT LAKE CITY -

The Utah Species Protection Account—formerly known as the Endangered Species Mitigation Fund—was created in 1997 to direct funds toward species and projects

that will proactively help to prevent Endangered Species Act listings in Utah. The Utah Wildlife Action Plan identifies species and habitats that are in need of conservation attention, helps prioritize funding decisions and is currently being updated to guide the next ten years of conservation efforts.

“Proactive conservaWildlife Projects Cont'd on A5

student-led rover design team, the drive to Hanksville is almost as memorable as the University Rover Challenge (URC) itself.

“People's jaws just

Utah DOR Awards Funds to 81 Outdoor Rec Projects Across 27 Counties

SALT LAKE CITYThe Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation has awarded more than $19 million in Utah Outdoor Recreation Grant (UORG) funding to support 81 outdoor recreation infrastructure projects across the state. While the state is providing $19 million in grant funding, the total value of these projects exceeds $61 million, demonstrating how local communities are leveraging state dollars with their own matching funds to maximize projects and outdoor recreation assets for Utahns.

The 2026 UORG awards will help cities, counties and nonprofit partGrants Cont'd on B1

drop,” says Stem about watching the faces of firsttime attendees making the drive from the lush, green landscapes of Missouri to Utah’s red rock desert. “Ev-

eryone starts getting goosebumps,” he says, “after they've seen the trees and

URC Cont'd on B3

GARFIELD CO.The Garfield County Commission met June 8 and, after approving the agenda and May 26 meeting minutes, moved into board reports. Commissioner Jerry Taylor was excused from the meeting.

Commissioner David Tebbs thanked EMS volunteers, law enforcement officers, and emergency personnel for covering a growing number of county events, including a recent bike race. Tebbs also reminded residents that Stage 1 fire restrictions took effect June 1 and reported efforts to rebuild the Tickaboo Fire Department under new leadership. Discussing new oversight procedures for fire department spending requests, Tebbs said,

Garfield Commission Cont'd on A3

ESCALANTE - After arriving to the area in 2021 “on a sabbatical in search of myself and dark skies,"

Jennifer Crawford, a licensed mental health counselor with eighteen years of experience, is opening Sol-

Solace & Stone Cont'd on B2

ace & Stone Counseling at The Loop in Escalante. Crawford spent most of her career working for a large nonprofit healthcare agency in Massachusetts. Before becoming a counselor, she worked as a case manager helping adults with mental health disabilities. The experience, along with a desire to better understand hu-

Letters to the Editor

Send us your letters.

Your thoughts, opinions, and notes to the community are important to us and we welcome your submissions of 500 words or less

Letters to the editor must include the author’s name and location (town). We may edit letters for length, format and clarity, and we also reserve the right to refuse material. Opinions expressed in letters to the editor are not necessarily those of The Insider Send letters to snapshot@live.com. Note: The Insider will accept one letter per month per person, plus one additional letter if there is a response from another reader to which you would like to respond.

“AI” spins off everybody’s lips these days, but few of us have a good grasp on what it is. Mostly we hear the binaries:

“AI is a godsend.” “It’ll help us cure cancer.”

“It’ll take all our jobs.”

“It’ll kill us.” It’s good, bad, wonderful, evil…

I’ll tell you what it is: It’s an intriguing, probably earth-shaking, life-changing technological development that has received amazingly little serious policy discussion, at any level. And right now, it feels like the cart before the horse. En-

Don’t Get Cocky, Garfield County

tire communities are being more or less forced to sit down, shut up, and let huge physical “campuses” be constructed adjacent to or within them, without any apparent consideration of resource usage or long-term community impact.

A few attempts to hold back or rein in aspects of AI have been submitted via legislation, although the limitlessly-funded corporate backers have been largely successful at staving those off. Right now, individual communities have been left to their own

devices to do battle with the billionaire developers who’ve promised (and likely already delivered) plenty of goodies to elected decision-makers. And if those developers can talk a private landowner into accepting their great deal, then it’s game over, damn the community interest.

We need coherent policies, at all levels of our government, based on honest, full-blown, multistakeholder information and discussion about AI and about its requirements. We need to understand the

risks, benefits, costs, justifications—short-term and long-term—of both AI itself, as well as the data centers it requires. We deserve to understand what controls are possible and make sense and what potential hosting areas for data centers can reasonably demand and enforce. Honest discussions will breed more questions. And we need those answers. We need the discussions. And we definitely need some intelligent, thoughtful, and effective policies.

Peg Smith, Boulder

Large Vehicle Restrictions Begin on Zion-Mt. Carmel Hwy

Visitors are encouraged to check vehicle size before traveling through Zion National Park

SPRINGDALE -

Large vehicle restrictions have taken effect on the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway (ZMCH) in Zion National Park. First announced in May 2024, the restrictions reflect decades of research, increased traffic, and the changing size of vehicles traveling through Zion since the historic highway’s completion in 1930.

Vehicles that exceed one or more of the following limits will not be permitted to drive the highway between Can-

yon Junction and the park’s East Entrance:

• 35 feet, 9 inches in length

• 7 feet, 10 inches in width

• 11 feet, 4 inches in height

• 50,000 pounds Combined vehicles may not exceed 50 feet overall and 26 feet from hitch to rear axle.

The restrictions are based on safety studies completed in 1989 and 2019 and validated by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration. These

studies found that vehicles over the established limits cannot safely maintain their lane on parts of the historic highway, cannot travel through the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel in one lane of travel, or exceed bridge weight limits on the route. Drivers should check their full vehicle measurements before arriving at the park. Measurements should include after-market accessories or any other additions that may affect height, width, length, or weight. Visitors whose vehicles exceed the limits

can still visit Zion National Park through the South Entrance and access the Zion Canyon Visitor Center, large vehicle parking lot, Watchman and South Campgrounds, and the Zion Lodge (with a valid reservation). However, these vehicles cannot proceed past Canyon Junction and will not be allowed past the park’s East Entrance.

For more information on the ZMCH large vehicle restrictions, visit go.nps. gov/ZMCH.

—National Park Service

USU Extension Sponsors Statewide Marathon Kids Summer Program

by Julene Reese | Utah State University Extension UTAH - Utah State University Extension sponsors a statewide virtual Marathon Kids summer program from June 8 to August 8. Open to all Utah youth and their families, the program is designed to help participants increase activity and gain confidence through completing the distance of a marathon (26.2 miles) by doing physical activity. The program is part of the National Marathon Kids program with the mission

of getting kids moving.

Participants can run, walk, play, or do any type of heart-pumping activity, and every mile or minute counts toward their marathon(s). Miles/minutes are tracked in a free digital platform or with paper tracking sheets, available at marathonkids.usu. edu. For each marathon of activity completed, participants’ names will go into a drawing for a prize.

Emma Parkhurst, Utah State University Extension associate profes-

sor and program organizer, said research shows that when children participate in Marathon Kids, they have a better chance of getting the recommended amount of daily physical activity.

“Last summer, we had over 400 youth from around the state complete a total of 17,000 miles,” Parkhurst said. “That’s 650 marathons!”

For questions or further information, contact Parkhurst at emma. parkhurst@usu.edu.

Garfield Commission: New oversight procedures for fire department spending requests, Tropic Reservoir Campground, continued efforts to expand timber sales on the Dixie National Forest, chip seal projects, and approval of a Community Impact Board funding application tied to acquiring public access road easements on SITLA lands discussed. Greg Shakespear and Clint Moore were recognized for their ten years of service with Garfield County.

Garfield Commission

Cont'd from A1

“We’re not going to do that again,” referring to past issues where expenditures were made without sufficient review. He also said county officials are working to address concerns involving EMS and fire response coordination in Panguitch.

Commission Chair Leland Pollock said Tropic Reservoir Campground is once again without water and restroom service despite having an available water source nearby. Pollock said the issue stems from water testing and regulatory requirements rather than a lack of water itself. He also reported continued efforts to expand timber sales on the Dixie National Forest through the Good Neighbor Authority program, which would allow counties to help administer timber projects. Pollock noted the Dixie National Forest went sixteen months without a timber sale and emphasized the impact on local industry, saying, “It's important that everybody in the room knows how important our sawmills

are.” Pollock also said the county is exploring ways to add jail capacity as the sheriff's office runs short on inmate beds, working with the Community Impact Board and county surplus funds while remaining debt-free.

Commissioners also recognized Greg Shakespear and Clint Moore for ten years of service with Garfield County.

Public Works Director Dave Dodds reported that chip seal projects are largely complete and crews are preparing a major sediment-removal project above Tropic Reservoir tied to post-fire recovery efforts. Dodds also said water levels at Panguitch Lake are extremely low, noting that “PLR had to pull all the boats out of there because it was so shallow.” Commissioners also praised county road crews for completing the newly chip-sealed section of Hole-in-the-Rock Road. Dodds noted the project required far more than a week of paving work, saying, “It wasn't just that week of chip seal. It was probably six months” of preparation and road work leading up to the project.

During a public hearing, commissioners approved a Community Impact Board funding application tied to acquiring public access road easements on SITLA lands.

Public Works Director Dave Dodds said the proposal would help protect county rights-of-way and public access, explaining, “It basically protects public access.”

Commissioners also approved future Utah Retirement Systems contribution pickups for county employees, approved a business license for Peakview Canvas and Goods, and appointed Dick West to fill a vacancy on the Mammoth Creek Fire District Board before entering executive session regarding litigation, real estate, and personnel matters.

The Garfield County Commission meets on the second and fourth Monday of each month starting at 10 a.m. All meetings are held in the County Courthouse in Panguitch. Electronic participation is not available, but all meeting recordings are uploaded to the Utah Public Meetings Notice board, https://www. utah.gov/pmn/.

Wills, Trusts, and More

Drafting Your Own Will or Trust

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

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

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

by Jeffery J. McKenna

Often, when there are problems, the problems are significant.

I like to compare estate planning to having a baby. Can someone deliver a baby without a trained and experienced professional? The answer is yes. It was done that way for hundreds and thousands of years. However, is there less likelihood of having serious problems if someone with more training and experience is involved in the process? Again, I believe most would agree that the answer is yes.

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

In deciding whether to do your own estate planning without professional assistance, I believe the

question to be asked is how much time are you willing to devote to understanding the process and how much risk are you comfortable taking regarding the disposition of your estate.

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

It may be that estate planning can be compared to preventive mechanics. You can pay for the tune ups and oil changes now or you can pay more for the repairs later. However, a significant difference is that it is not you but rather your heirs that pay.

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.

country roads

by Lynn Griffin

tHe lAuGhiNg pOiNt!!

Wanna Bet?

An old man is met by his attorney, and is told he is going to be audited. He rides to the IRS office with his attorney, and when he gets there, he begins to talk with the IRS agent. "I bet $2,000 I can bite my own eye!"

The IRS agent agrees to the bet, believing it an impossible task. The old man laughs, pulls out his glass eye, and bites it. The IRS agent is dumbfounded.

The old man bets $3,000 he can bite his other eye. The IRS agent knows there's no way possible to do this, so he once more agrees. The old man cackles, pulls out his dentures, and bites his eye.

Then the old man finally wagers, "I bet $20,000 I can stand on the far side of your desk, pee over the desk, and get it into your wastebasket, without missing a single drop."

The agent knows he won't be able to, so once more he agrees. The old man indeed misses, peeing all over the desk, and on the paperwork.

The IRS agent jumps for joy, but then notices the attorney over in the corner moaning.

"Are you all right?" asks the agent.

"No! On the way over here, he bet me $400,000 he could pee on your desk and you'd be happy about it!"

Dreams

A woman was taking an afternoon nap. When she woke up, she told her husband, "I just dreamed that you gave me a pearl necklace. What do you think it means?"

"You'll know tonight," he said. That evening, the man came home with a small package and gave it to his wife.

Delighted, she opened it to find a book entitled "The Meaning of Dreams."

PUNishment

Mahatma Gandhi often walked barefoot which produced an impressive set of callouses on his feet. He also ate very little, making him rather frail and with his odd diet he often suffered from bad breath. This made him a super calloused fragile mystic hexed with halitosis.

THEME: Declaration of Independence

ACROSS

1. Last name behind Waldorf Astoria

6. Hawaiian flower garland

9. What beanstalk did

13. Pack animal

14. Charged particle

15. Lacking guile

16. Lumen per square meter, pl.

17. Crime scene evidence, acr.

18. Roast host

19. *Unalienable ones in the Declaration of Independence

21. *Colony that originally abstained from voting on independence

23. Baba of "One Thousand and One Nights"

24. Parsley or basil, e.g.

25. Mountain peak

28. *Four Declaration signers were alums of this CT Ivy Leaguer

30. Most mature, as in fruit

35. It must go on?

37. Small brook

39. *"...to assume among the powers of the ____"

40. Cap and gown accessory

41. Where there's trouble

43. Rani's dress

44. Useful quality

46. Volcano off Sicily coast

47. State on Old Glory

48. Dionysus' follower

Dems' opponents

Not divisible by two

Like certain people's glasses

Australia's flightless bird

*First Declaration of Independence signer

*Self-evident ones

Not a minor

"____ it or lose it!"

Proof

A man went to his lawyer and told him, "My neighbor owes me $500 and he won’t pay up. What should I do?"

"Do you have any proof he owes you the money?" asked the lawyer. "Nope," replied the man.

"OK, then write him a letter asking him for the $5,000 he owed you," said the lawyer.

"But it's only $500," replied the man.

"Precisely. That’s what he will reply and then you’ll have your proof!"

*Last name of the only brothers to both sign the Declaration

Last Supper cup

Item in diary

70thAnniversaryWedding

Grant & Gloria M. Houston

F. Grant and Gloria Morgan Houston were married June 21, 1956, in the Manti Temple. They have been blessed with four children: Kelly Grant (Maureen) Houston, Fran (David) Black, Lana (Bruce) Hiskey, and Ryan Wallace (Tammy) Houston. They are also blessed with 14 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren with more on the way. Grant and Gloria continue to live in Panguitch, Utah.

Celebrating 60 Years of Marriage: 6/18/1966

The family of Marvin (Marv) and Sherma Turner are proud to celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary. Together, they have built a remarkable legacy centered on faith, family, hard work, and devotion. Their 60 year marriage has been blessed with five children, 12 grandchildren, and 25 great-grandchildren. As a Forest Ranger, Marv spent many years protecting public lands and often spent weeks away from home fighting wildfires. During those times, Sherma faithfully cared for their home, children, and animals, keeping everything running smoothly while supporting her husband’s work. In his younger years, he also enjoyed the excitement of chariot racing. As a talented beautician, Sherma worked in salons for many years and became known for being able to give a haircut just about anywherewhether in the kitchen, at a baseball field, or on the back porch. Through every season of life, family remained their highest priority. No matter they distance they never missed an important event, spending countless hours on the road and putting many miles on their vehicles to support children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren in all their activities and accomplishments.

They also share a love of baseball and have spent decades cheering on their favorite teams, the Kansas City Royals and the Chicago Cubs. Their family celebrates not only this milestone anniversary, but also the example of love, commitment, sacrifice, and dedication they have provided for six decades. Congratulations on 60 wonderful years together and on the family legacy you continue to inspire.

Wildlife Projects: Proactive conservation helps keep Utah’s native species healthy Healthy populations don’t need protection under the Endangered Species Act, which in turn keeps management decisions at the state level and reduces additional federal oversight and economic restrictions that can come with Endangered Species Act listings.

—Scott Gibson,

DWR Utah Wildlife Action Plan Coordinator

A total of $5.1 million was allocated to dozens of wildlife-related projects at the annual Utah Species Protection Account funding meeting, hosted by the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources on April 16. This year, along with funding several recovery programs aimed at helping species listed under the Endangered Species Act, the projects that received some of the most funding included researching the Wilson’s phalarope, which was recently petitioned for federal listing under the Endangered Species Act. This project received $147,000 in funding.

Wildlife Projects Cont'd from A1

tion helps keep Utah’s native species healthy,” DWR Utah Wildlife Action Plan Coordinator Scott Gibson said. “Healthy populations don’t need protection under the Endangered Species Act, which in turn keeps management decisions at the state level and reduces additional federal oversight and economic restrictions that can come with Endangered Species Act listings.”

Thirty-three projects will be funded by the Species Protection Account over the next fiscal year (from July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2027). The $5.1 million is an increase from past years. During the 2025 legislative session, the Utah Legislature also approved a

tax on certain new energy development projects. The funds raised by that tax will go into the Species Protection Account to pay for projects that benefit Utah's native species populations. In 2026, the Species Protection Account received $1.2 million from this tax revenue, with expected increases in future years.

“Conservation funding for species that are not hunted or fished is hard to come by,” Gibson said. “Those of us in Utah working to better understand and maintain healthy populations for our lesser-known species are fortunate that our state legislature understands the value of funding the preservation of Utah's biodiversity.”

This year, along with funding several recovery

programs aimed at helping species listed under the Endangered Species Act, the projects that received some of the most funding included:

• Removing invasive carp at Utah Lake to help the threatened June sucker, only found at Utah Lake and its tributaries. This project received $150,000 in funding.

• Researching the Wilson’s phalarope, which was recently petitioned for federal listing under the Endangered Species Act. This project received $147,000 in funding.

• Helping fund the rare plant and insect programs through a partnership between DWR and Utah State University. This project received

$280,000 in funding. The projects that are funded each year are selected and approved by the Species Protection Account Advisory Committee, a seven-person committee of diverse stakeholders and organization representatives.

Since 1997, the Species Protection Account has:

• Completed more than 700 projects that benefit native fish and wildlife species.

Dedicated more than $90 million toward native species conservation efforts.

Helped recover populations of various species to achieve two Endangered Species Act delistings and three downlistings (from endangered status to threatened), and to prevent more than twenty species from being listed under the Endangered Species Act.

These Species Protection Account allocated funds and projects are in addition to the $6.5 million in conservation permit funds that were allocated in April to wildlife research and habitat projects. That funding program uses Utah’s Watershed Restoration Initiative, a Utah Department of Natural Resources partnership-based program, which serves as a centralized portal for funding and tracking the completion of habitat-related projects.

Learn more about the Species Protection Account on the DWR Wild podcast.

—Utah Division of Wildlife Resources

Courtesy Utah Division of Wildlife Resources

Dining Guide

Out & About

5th Annual Fort Desolation Music and Adventure Travel Festival Features

Drive-By Truckers, Andrew Bird, Grahame Lesh & Friends, Rayland Baxter, Bella White and More

TORREY - Fort Des-

olation Fest returns Sep-

tember 24-26 with three nights of music in the red rocks of Cougar Ridge Resort in Torrey, Utah, and three days to explore the breathtaking landscapes around Capitol Reef National Park.

The 2026 MainStage Lineup

• Drive-By Truckers

Andrew Bird

• Grahame Lesh & Friends

Rayland Baxter

• Futurebirds

Tune-Yards

• Bella White

Grace Cummings

• Coleman Jennings

• Triggers & Slips

Pixie & The Partygrass

Boys Fort Desolation Fest limits attendance to ensure a premium experience for all.

“We want people to be able to move around comfortably, get close to the music and enjoy the festival without long lines. This has been a big part of it from the very beginning,” said Jeremy Rawle, founder of Fort Desolation Fest.

Fort Desolation Fest takes place just outside Capitol Reef National

ate a relaxed atmosphere where people make themselves at home, and even create little neighborhoods by reserving spots beside friends and family. Highlights include campsite cookouts, cornhole throwdowns, after-hours jams with festival artists and stargazing in this International Dark Sky Community.

festival. From hiking to fly-fishing to cycling to offroading, there’s something for everyone.

What’s New in 2026?

complete with bar and rentable cabanas

• The Fort Desolation Fondo, a two-day gravel-cycling event created with the Utah Gravel Series

Fort Desolation Fest returns September 24-26 with three nights of music in the red rocks of Cougar Ridge Resort in Torrey, Utah, and three days to explore the breathtaking landscapes around Capitol Reef National Park. The 2026 Main-Stage lineup includes Drive-By Truckers, Andrew Bird, Grahame Lesh & Friends, Rayland Baxter, Futurebirds, Tune-Yards, Bella White, Grace Cummings, Coleman Jennings, Triggers & Slips, and Pixie & The Partygrass Boys. Park, one of Utah’s “Mighty Five” national parks. With music each evening, attendees spend their days creating their own adventures amid the awe-inspiring redrock cliffs, canyons, domes and arches surrounding the

• Limited passes available for the on-site Oasis Pool & Fitness facility (21+),

• And more to come

Set in a pristine, freshly cut alfalfa field with sweeping red-rock views, the campground is the heart of the Fort Desolation Fest experience. Spacious camping spots, wide-open skies and easy access cre-

Those seeking extra comfort can rent one of the limited glamping tents or villas at the festival. Glamping includes a beautifully furnished canvas tent with a memory-foam mattress and upscale amenities, plus two VIP threeday festival passes, two passes to the Oasis Pool & Fitness facility (21+), dedicated parking and more. Luxury villas offer two bedrooms, two full bathrooms, a kitchenette, living area, fireplace and private deck overlooking the festival grounds. The villas sleep up to six adults and include up to six three-day VIP passes, plus access to the Oasis Pool & Fitness facility (21+). Learn more at fortdesolation.com. Email questions to info@fortdesolation.com. —Fort Desolation Festival

Grants: Outdoor recreation is what makes Utah such an incredible place to live, work and visit. These grants help communities invest in the places where people connect with the outdoors, whether that is a neighborhood park, a regional trail system or a destination that supports local businesses and rural economies.

—Jason

Curry, director of the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation

needs:

ners build and improve motorized and non-motorized trails, parks, playgrounds, bike facilities, skateparks, water-based recreation amenities and other projects that expand access to outdoor recreation close to home.

tive pump track designed to better serve riders with disabilities.

“We want Glendale Park to be a place where anyone—kids, teens, parents and adaptive athletes— can show up, feel welcome and have fun,” said Jon Ruedas, project manager for Salt Lake City Corp. “It’s exciting to see the community’s ideas coming to life. We’re building something here that’s for all of us.”

ing climbing routes and public facilities for visitors. The project is expected to strengthen Vernal’s growing outdoor recreation economy and local businesses.

on the map for world-class adventure. This grant helps local outfitters, shops and hotels grow, and creates new opportunities for the next generation.”

• Regional Assets:

$9,353,485

• Tier 1 Infrastructure:

$4,429,578.20

Community Parks and Recreation: $3,245,707.03

“Outdoor recreation is what makes Utah such an incredible place to live, work and visit,” said Jason Curry, director of the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation. “These grants help communities invest in the places where people connect with the outdoors, whether that is a neighborhood park, a regional trail system or a destination that supports local businesses and rural economies.”

Projects were reviewed by the Utah Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Advisory Committee and selected based on community need, project readiness, long-term impact and their ability to improve access to high-quality outdoor recreation.

This year’s funding supports projects in communities of all sizes, from major regional assets to small-town park improvements. Five projects received $1 million awards, including trail and recreation developments in St. George, Parowan, Farmington, Mapleton and Salt Lake City.

In Salt Lake City, a $1 million award will support improvements at Glendale Park, formerly the home of Raging Waters, including a new skatepark, pump track and Utah’s first adap-

Several smaller projects will also improve accessibility and create new opportunities for people of all abilities to get outside. Eden Valley Trails received over $55,000 to help build an adaptive-friendly mountain bike trail at North Fork Park.

“This addition will make the park more inclusive and accessible for people of all abilities, something we’ve wanted to do since we were founded,” said Alan Wheelwright, executive director of Eden Valley Trails. “It opens the door for athletes and community members who may not have been able to fully enjoy it before.”

The grant cycle also includes several projects that will improve outdoor recreation opportunities in rural communities. Castle Dale received $200,000 to help build an all-abilities park, while Kingston Town will upgrade its playground. Other funded projects include improvements to parks and playgrounds in communities such as Kanab, Daggett County and Midway.

In Uintah County, a $590,030 award will support Phase 2 of the Ashley Gorge Via Ferrata, expand-

“Investing in the Ashley Gorge Via Ferrata isn’t just about attracting visitors; it’s about building a future for our community,” said Travis Campbell, Uintah County economic development director. “As the longest public (and free) via ferrata in the Western Hemisphere, it’s putting Vernal

The Utah Outdoor Recreation Grant program helps communities build recreation amenities that support quality of life, public health, economic development and Utah’s outdoor recreation economy. UORG funding is distributed through several grant categories designed to meet different community

Recreation Restoration Infrastructure:

$2,034,622.12

• Mini Grants: $135,148

“Every community has different recreation needs, and that is what makes this grant program so important,” said Noemi Molina, UORG program administra-

tor. “Some projects create major regional destinations, while others help a small town replace a playground, improve a park or build a trail that families use every day. Together, these investments help more Utahns experience the benefits of outdoor recreation.”

For a full list of the 2026 UORG grant recipients and information on other available grants, visit recreation.utah.gov/grants/.

—Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation Grants Cont'd from A1

Steve Olpin Fort Desolation Festival

Solace & Stone: This community is special in how the people take care of each other. I am humble and grateful to be here and to be able to give back to a place and people who have given so much to me.

—Jennifer Crawford

man behavior and emotion, inspired her to return to school and earn a master's degree in counseling.

Following COVID and a period of reevaluating her goals and priorities, she felt a sudden urge to pack up and head west. When she arrived in Escalante in 2021, Crawford was living in an RV and was more focused on creating art, exploring the landscape, and redefining her values and lifestyle than on developing her career. She worked part-time at Yonder Escalante, now Ofland Escalante, and volunteered with the Bureau of Land Management.

"I was intrigued by the landscape and the vast wilderness," she said. "I used photography, writing, and the landscape itself to explore my own values and beliefs, to connect with others and inspire rich conversations, and to begin to heal some of my own stuck places."

Later she returned to counseling and joined the team at Turn-About Ranch, where she spent the next two years working as a therapist. She described the experience as extremely enriching and said working with young people and their families taught her about character development, western ranch values, and the resiliency of teenagers. During her time there, she witnessed moments of tremendous growth, joy, and genuine connection.

"I also truly felt that this landscape provided more of the healing at times than myself or my

team could," she said.

When Turn-About Ranch closed this past year, Crawford found herself at a crossroads. She wanted to stay in Escalante and tap into that magic more.

The nearest counseling opportunities were more than sixty miles away. As she began applying for remote counseling jobs, several people around town encouraged her to consider opening her own practice.

"Making that leap seemed very out of reach for a long time, but suddenly my need to work was met with opportunity," she said. She spent the next month networking with other professionals, researching the process, and preparing to launch the business.

The opportunity came when space became available at The Loop. Home to Monument Yoga and several small local businesses, including massage, hair, and nail services, The Loop felt like a natural space for her new practice.

"Having a counseling practice in a building that promotes self-care and personal growth through yoga was the perfect fit," she said.

She chose the name Solace & Stone to represent "finding peace and comfort while also finding strength, certainty and resilience."

She said her goal is to create a space where people feel heard, accepted, and valued as they learn to trust themselves and move toward a better version of themselves.

Crawford said she believes there are many paths to wellness and wholeness. For some people, that might be therapy. For others, it could be hiking,

yoga or breathwork. "In my therapy, I use interventions and theory from many different modalities until I can find the ones that feel most helpful and true to the person I am working with," she said.

"This community is special in how the people take care of each other," she said. "I am humble and grateful to be here and to be

able to give back to a place and people who have given so much to me," she said.

In her practice, she works with adolescents, adults, and couples and helps clients navigate challenges including trauma, anxiety, depression, selfesteem issues, substance use, relationship struggles, and life transitions.

Solace & Stone

Counseling accepts several insurance plans, including Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Select Health, and some Medicare options. Additional insurance credentialing is ongoing. A sliding scale is also available for some cash-pay clients. Crawford offers a free 15-minute phone consultation for prospective clients and can be reached at (435) 572-0126. Her office is located at The Loop, 39 W. Main St., Escalante.

Shylee Allen, Escalante Utah Photography

Jennifer Crawford, a licensed mental health counselor with eighteen years of experience, has opened Solace & Stone Counseling at The Loop at 39 W. Main St. in Escalante. She chose the name Solace & Stone to represent "finding peace and comfort while also finding strength, certainty and resilience." She said her goal is to create a space where people feel heard, accepted, and valued as they learn to trust themselves and move toward a better version of themselves.

Solace & Stone Cont'd from A1

North Wash: Reliable river access is critical not only for recreation, but for the guides, outfitters, local communities and tourism economies connected to Cataract Canyon. This project represents a strong collaborative effort to adapt to changing conditions at Lake Powell while helping ensure people can continue safely experiencing one of Utah’s most iconic rivers.

—Jason Curry, director of the Division of Outdoor Recreation

North Wash

Cont'd from A1

ing conditions at Lake Powell while helping ensure people can continue safely experiencing one of Utah’s most iconic rivers. ”

The North Wash site serves as the primary takeout for popular multi-day river trips. In recent years, declining water levels at Lake Powell have made the traditional ramp increasingly steep and difficult to use, creating operational and safety challenges for river users and outfitters that depend on reliable access during peak recreation season.

The newly completed ramp features a reinforced surface of articulating concrete block mats designed to improve traction and durability on steep, dynamic terrain. The project was developed as an interim solution to maintain access while the long-term ramp project at North Hite is completed.

The improved ramp is designed for highclearance, four-wheel-

drive vehicles only due to the steep grade. The access area is approximately sixteen feet wide and accommodates one party at a time. While most users will not need specialized equipment, conditions may vary depending on water levels and vessel setup.

River users are encouraged to plan ahead, assess their equipment and capabilities, and allow additional time for takeout. Alternative takeout locations, including Bullfrog and Halls Crossing, remain additional options.

Funding for design, compliance and site improvements was provided by the Utah Outdoor Adventure Commission, with coordination support from the Public Lands Policy Coordination Office and the Utah Guides and Outfitters Association. Additional information, including site updates and user guidance, is available at recreation. utah.gov/north-washboat-ramp.

—Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation

URC: Most professional engineers would look at this challenge and say there's no way a team of undergraduate students can build a rover capable of doing all these things in one year. But these students show that with grit, determination and consistent hard work, it is completely achievable.

—Kevin Sloan, University Rover Challenge Director

green grass for so long and then see the beautiful terrain around Hanksville.”

Each spring, hundreds of college students travel from across the world to Hanksville, where the surrounding desert landscape bears a striking resemblance to Mars. Over six hundred students representing sixteen countries traveled to the region to compete in this year’s University Rover Challenge, held May 27-30, 2026.

The competition tasks university teams to design and build rovers capable

of assisting astronauts on Mars. During the four-day event, rovers “compete” in tasks involving autonomously navigating difficult terrain, identifying signs of life in soil and rock, delivering supplies, and servicing equipment on a simulated Martian landscape.

The challenge takes place at the Mars Desert Research Station just outside Hanksville. Surrounded by rust-colored Bentonite Hills, barren badlands, and sparse vegetation, this highly arid landscape is considered one of the most “Mars-like” locations on Earth and attracts scientists, researchers, and curious visitors from around the world.

While the competition focuses on the student-built rovers, organizers say the annual event provides an important economic boost to Hanksville and the surrounding communities.

“We have 600 college students descending on a town of 200,” said University Rover Challenge Director Kevin Sloan. “Every hotel room in Hanksville and every campsite is completely booked.”

The flood of student scientists extends far beyond Hanksville. Teams stay in Torrey, Loa, Green River, Moab, and even Richfield, with many students and faculty making the lengthy commute to the site each day.

“It takes the entire region to make URC happen,” said Sloan.

For many students, the event is more than a competition. It serves as a training ground for future careers in aerospace engineering, robotics, and space exploration.

As a child, Stem always had a knack for figuring out patterns and solutions. He loved making contraptions out of cardboard and rubber bands and, like many kids, became fascinated by Star Wars and Star Trek. But for Stem, this infatuation with space never faded, which led him to Missouri Univer-

sity of Science and Technology to study aerospace engineering.

Stem joined the university’s rover team as a freshman thrilled with the opportunity for hands-on experience. Four years later, he helped lead Missouri S&T's championshipwinning rover, Athena, to its second consecutive world title and recently accepted a position as a composite manufacturing engineer with California-based Impulse Space.

Teams spend nine months designing, manufacturing, and testing their rovers. Most participants are undergraduate students and in Stem’s case, his team was made up of nearly 100 students participating in different design aspects.

Stem explains the whole experience as quite surreal. “We start with this idea of a rover in the green Missouri grass,” he said.

After months of design, testing, and troubleshooting, the team then loads its rover and drives across the country to Utah where, “all of that imagination and hope gets filled with passion and motivation as we see these terrain changes become much more Marslike.”

For Stem, winning the competition was a “pool of emotions,” but the competition extends far beyond the rankings.

“We're not people

building a rover. We're people building people,” says Stem about the opportunity this experience offers students. Sloan said that lesson is one of the competition's most important outcomes.

“Most professional engineers would look at this challenge and say there's no way a team of undergraduate students can build a rover capable of doing all these things in one year,” Sloan said. “But these students show that with grit, determination and consistent hard work, it is completely achievable.”

Although the event is not open to the public, passersby can sometimes spy the rovers from nearby public roads.

“We would love to open it up more to the public just logistically, it's not easily a spectator friendly event,” added Sloan.

For a few days each spring, some of the brightest young minds come to Hanksville to test ideas they may have once found impossible and proved they can be built. For local children, who might catch a glimpse of a rover from the roadway or see photos in the paper, the challenge offers a reminder that careers in science and even space exploration might not be as far away as they seem. They may just be found a few miles down Cow Dung Road.

Courtesy ProtoSpace

Robotics for Space Exploration Team (University of Toronto) with their rover at the 20th annual University Rover Challenge (URC) in Hanksville, Utah.

Missouri Rover Design Team (MRDT) from Missouri S&T with its winning rover, Athena. MRDT captured 1st place in the 2026 University Rover Challenge (URC) competition with a score of 469.57 points

Utahns Face Realities of New Medicaid Work Requirements

by Mark Richardson | Utah News Connection

UTAH - Utah received new guidance from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services on pending changes to Medicaid work requirements.

The stricter rules, pushed by congressional Republicans, are set to take effect in January 2027. Recipients without an exemption will have to work eighty hours a month through employment, education or community service.

Maddie Twomey, communications director for the group Protect Our Care, said the update does not have “guardrails” to ensure vulnerable populations do not fall through the cracks.

“Nearly three million Americans have lost their Medicaid coverage,” Twomey pointed out.

“This is even before these Medicaid work requirements are taking effect, and the bulk of the coverage losses are going to get worse.”

Twomey stressed more than 180,000 Utahns could lose coverage.

Exemptions from the work rules include Native Americans, pregnant women, people with disabilities and parents with young children. Federal officials contended the changes will promote economic stability and self-sufficiency.

Protect Our Care warned enrollees will have to navigate complicated reporting systems because of changes from last year’s “One Big Beautiful Bill Act.” Twomey noted there are examples of stricter work requirements in individual states, including

Legal Notices

NOTICE TO WATER USERS

Arkansas, where thousands of people lost Medicaid coverage, making complex health situations even worse.

“People lost their medications, they lost their ability to see their doctors and to stay healthy,” she explained.

Twomey argued it put people at risk of being out of work, defeating the purpose of the enhanced requirements. A Harvard study found Arkansas’ 2018 work requirements failed to achieve the stated goal of boosting employment.

Medicaid officials said $200 million is being sent to states to help update reporting systems but skeptics argued most states face budget shortfalls and the resources provided are insufficient.

Legal Notices

NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE

The following described property will be sold at public auction to the highest bidder, payable in lawful money of the United States at the time of the sale, “at the steps of 55 S Main, Panguitch, UT”, on July 22, 2026 at 10:00 AM, on said day, for the purpose of foreclosing a trust deed dated 7/15/2019, and executed by Sugar Bluff LLC, a Wyoming limited liability company and Tru North Holdings, LC, a Utah limited liability company, as Trustor(s) in favor of Brennan Holdings, LLC, an Idaho limited liability company, as Beneficiary, covering the following real property located in Garfield County: Parcel 1: Beginning at the Southwest corner of the Northwest quarter of the Southwest quarter of Section 2, Township 36 South, Range 4 West, Salt Lake Base and Meridian, and running thence North 0°08'58" East along the section line 1236.70 feet to a point South 0°08'58" West 82.12 feet from the West quarter corner of said section 2; thence North 85°52'13" East 910.64 feet to a point on the Southerly right of way line of Utah State Highway 12; thence along said Southerly right of way line as follows: South 47°40'51" East 188.26 feet to the point of curvature of an 5829.58 foot non-tangent radius curve whose center bears North 42°18'57" East; thence Southeasterly along the ARC of said curve to the left 460.03 feet through a central angle of 4°31'17"; thence leaving said Southerly right of way line South 37°47'40" West 263.52 feet to a point on an 2541.90 foot non-tangent radius curve whose center bears North 36°55'01" East; thence Southeasterly along the ARC of said to the left 565.24 feet through a central angle of 12°44'27"; thence South 68°25'49" East 237.37 feet to the point of curvature of an 40.53 foot radius curve; thence Northeasterly along the ARC of said curve to the left 57.74 feet through a central angle of 81°37'42"; thence North 29°56'29" East 137.68 feet to a point on the Southerly right of way line of Utah State Highway 12, said point being on an 5829.58 foot non-tangent radius curve whose center bears North 29°55'54" East; thence Southeasterly along the ARC of said curve to the left 655.86 feet through a central angle of 6°26'46"; thence South 0°13'58" East along the quarter section line 134.49 feet; thence South 89°53'27" West along the 1/16 section line 2652.64 feet to the point of beginning.

Parcel 2: Beginning at the West quarter corner of Section 2, Township 36 South, Range 4 West, Salt Lake Base and Meridian and running thence North 0°10'52" West along the section line 812.64 feet to the Southwesterly right of way line of Utah Highway sr-12; thence South 47°40'51" East along said right of way line 1231.58 feet; thence South 85°52'13" West 910.64 feet to the section line; thence North 0°05'58" East 82.12 feet to the point of beginning.

Parcel 3: 100% of water right number 61-1466, on file in the office of the Utah State Water Engineer, being 18.15 acre feet.

Together with all the improvements now or hereafter erected on the property, and all easements, appurtenances, and fixtures now or hereafter a part of the property

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 Jul. 15, 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)

97-2552 (A85214): Barney EL Wade & ET`AL propose(s) using 1.73 ac-ft. from groundwater (Escalante City, Utah) for IRRIGATION; STOCKWATERING.

97-2553 (A85219): JH Sweetwater Ranch, LLC propose(s) using 1.73 ac-ft. from groundwater (4.5 West of Boulder) for COMMERCIAL: this will be used for domestic and other uses in the Boulder Mtn Guest Ranch.

97-2554 (A85230): Alan Burnham, Shirley Pierce propose(s) using 1 ac-ft. from groundwater (Southeast of Boulder) for IRRIGATION.

EXTENSION(S)

97-2259 (A73901): Sarah Langwell is/are filing an extension for 1.73 ac-ft. from groundwater (Boulder, Utah) for DOMESTIC; IRRIGATION; STOCKWATERING.

61-2754 (a32922): Juan Arteaga and Cecilia Arteaga, Garcia Family Trust, Cynthia Faye Piediscalzi and Dean Piediscalzi, State of Utah Board of Water Resources, John and Peggy O. Ellenburg 1990 Living Trust, M. Chad Gough and Olea N. Gough, West Panguitch Irrigation and Reservoir Company is/are filing an extension for 2.25 ac-ft. from groundwater (5 miles North of Panguitch) for DOMESTIC.

KANE COUNTY

CHANGE APPLICATION(S)

61-1551 (a54692): Headwaters Ranch, LLC propose(s) using 6.5 ac-ft. from the River & Spring (3 Miles NE of Long Valley Jct.) for DOMESTIC; IRRIGATION; STOCKWATERING.

WAYNE COUNTY

NEW APPLICATION(S)

95-5595 (A85215): Frank S. and Jodi L. Cox propose(s) using 0.015 cfs OR 1.48 ac-ft. from groundwater (0.5 mile North of Grover Utah) for DOMESTIC; IRRIGATION; STOCKWATERING.

Teresa Wilhelmsen, P.E.

State Engineer

Published in The Wayne and Garfield County Insider on JUNE 18 & 25, 2026

Tax Parcel No.: 22-0077-0003, 22-0077-0008, & Water Right No 61-1466

The address of the property is purported to be vacant land, Bryce Canyon, Utah. The undersigned disclaims liability for any error in the address. The current Beneficiary of the Trust Deed is Brennan Holdings, LLC, an Idaho limited liability company, and the record of owners of the property as of the recording of the notice of default is reported to be Sugar Bluff LLC, a Utah limited liability company and Sugar Bluff LLC, a Wyoming limited liability company.

Bidders must be prepared to tender to the trustee, VendorTrak Title Insurance Agency, LLC, $25,000.00 at the sale and the balance of the purchase price by 12:00 noon the day following the sale and deliverable to: VendorTrak Title Insurance Agency, LLC, 20 North Main, Suite 300, St. George, Utah 84770. Both payments must be in the form of a cashier’s check or money order and made payable to VendorTrak Title Insurance Agency, LLC, cash and Bank “Official Checks” are not acceptable. A trustee’s deed will be made available to the successful bidder within three business days following receipt of the bid amount. The sale is made without any warranty whatsoever, including but not limited to any warranty as to title, liens possession, taxes, encumbrances, or condition of the property. The sale is subject to a workout reinstatement, payoff, sale cancellation or postponement, incorrect bidding instructions, bankruptcy, or any other circumstance of which the trustee is unaware. In the event any of the foregoing apply, the sale will be void and the successful bidder’s funds will be returned without any liability to the trustee or beneficiary for interest or any other damages.

Notice is hereby given that Vendortrak Title Insurance Agency, LLC, is attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for the purpose, and that the debt may be disputed.

VendorTrak Title Insurance Agency, LLC - 20 North Main, Suite 300 - St. George, Utah 84770 - (435) 652-5101 Published in The Wayne and Garfield County Insider on JUNE 18 & 25 and JULY 2, 2026

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP) TO PROVIDE ARCHITECTURAL/ ENGINEERING DESIGN SERVICES FOR THE GMH MRI ADDITION GARFIELD COUNTY

Garfield County is pleased to request a proposal to provide Architectural/Engineering (A/E) Design Services for the County MRI Addition located at the Garfield Memorial Hospital (GMH) in Panguitch, UT.

INTRODUCTION

The MRI Suite will be on the south side connected to the GMH main building and across from the Administrative building to support a new MRI unit being installed. The hospital is at 200N 400E St, Panguitch, UT 84759.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The addition will consist of approximately 600 sf for the MRI suite and 400 sf for adjacent corridor accessing the space. Access will be out the south end via a new corridor wrapped around the side of the building as well as an interior door from the side of the building in the Imaging suite. Reference drawing attached below. No demo/ remodel of existing space, nor additional parking spaces required. A new MRI unit will be installed upon completion by third party vender managed by the IH team and in coordination with the project GC. Both AE and GC must make allowances for the unit to be able to enter the new suite and be installed.

Specifications for the MIR unit requirements will be supplied.

The design will focus on providing high quality, cost-effective care through patient-centric processes and flows. All designs will employ Intermountain Health Corporate Design Guidelines.

The project scope includes construction of the new MRI suite, additional HVAC and electrical, creation of a side corridor outside existing exterior door, and finishes for the areas noted above with an estimated cost of construction noted below. Furniture will be OFOI. Infection Control barriers will be required to access the new space.

The Complete RFP is available at www.garfield.utah.gov

Published in The Wayne and Garfield County Insider on JUNE 11 & 18, 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 W. SKIDMORE deceased, NOTICE TO CREDITORS, Case No. 263600003, Assigned: JUDGE LARSEN. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that MARY SKIDMORE was appointed as Personal Representative of the estate of JAMES W. SKIDMORE 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 15TH day of May, 2026. BARRY L. HUNTINGTON

Published in The Wayne and Garfield County Insider on MAY 28 and JUNE 4, 11 & 18, 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 THOMAS J. POLING deceased, NOTICE TO CREDITORS, Case No. 263600007, Assigned: JUDGE LARSEN. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that HOLLY INFUSO was appointed as Personal Representative of the estate of THOMAS J. POLING 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 15TH day of May, 2026. BARRY L. HUNTINGTON

Published in The Wayne and Garfield County Insider on MAY 28 and JUNE 4, 11 & 18, 2026

NOTICE OF PROPOSED CHANGE

WAYNE COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION

Please take notice that the Wayne County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider the following:

PROPOSED CHANGE: FROM RES/ AG TO RESORT RECREATION WITH A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT

INTENDED USE: 3 RENTAL SUITE UNITS and 1 TRAILER RENTAL UNIT

CHANGE REQUESTED BY: ALISON BAGLEY

A PUBLIC HEARING WILL BE HELD DURING THE PLANNING & ZONING

MEETING ON:

JUNE 24, 2026 @ 7:00 PM AT THE WAYNE COUNTY COURTHOUSE

Located at: 1209 S CLIFF HOUSE WAY TORREY UTAH 84775

LEGAL DES: being part of Parcel 02-0030-0837 / O-828-1A

Published in The Wayne and Garfield County Insider on JUNE 11 & 18, 2026

NOTICE OF PROPOSED CHANGE

WAYNE COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION

Please take notice that the Wayne County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider the following:

PROPOSED CHANGE: CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT and VARIANCE for Separate Utilities due to Distance INTENDED USE: SMALL ACCESSORY EMPLOYEE HOUSE ON PARCEL WITH AN EXISTING RESIDENTIAL HOME

CHANGE REQUESTED BY: ALISON BAGLEY

A PUBLIC HEARING WILL BE HELD DURING THE PLANNING & ZONING

MEETING ON: JUNE 24, 2026 @ 7:00 PM AT THE WAYNE COUNTY COURTHOUSE

Located at: 1091 S CLIFF HOUSE WAY TORREY UTAH 84775

LEGAL DES: being part of Parcel 02-0030-0837 / O-828-1A

Published in The Wayne and Garfield County Insider on JUNE 11 & 18, 2026

PUBLIC NOTICE

UTAH SCHOOL AND INSTITUTIONAL TRUST LANDS ADMINISTRATION

The Utah School and Institutional Trust Lands Administration has received an application to remove ordinary sand and gravel from the following described land: Garfield Township 37 South, Range 6 West SLB&M, Section 24: NE4NE4

Containing 40 acres, more or less

The Administration will accept competing applications to remove the sand and gravel, and also competing applications to lease, purchase, or exchange this property, a portion thereof, or a parcel including any of the above-described acreage.

The Administration will accept competing applications during the following period of time:

From 8:00 A.M. June 10, 2026

Until 5:00 P.M. July 8, 2026

TRUST LANDS ADMINISTRATION

102 South 200 East, Suite 600 Salt Lake City, Utah 84111 801-538-5100

In the absence of competing applications for lease, purchase, or exchange, the Administration will evaluate the applications for the removal of ordinary sand and gravel and award the permit for such removal. The Trust Lands Administration reserves the right to reject any application or subsequent bids. For additional information, please contact Mr. Andy Bedingfield at (801) 538-5158.

Published in The Wayne and Garfield County Insider on JUNE 11 & 18, 2026

NOTICE REQUESTING PROPOSALS

WAYNE COUNTY REQUEST

FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) COMPENSATION AND CLASSIFICATION STUDY

The County of Wayne is soliciting sealed proposals from qualified consulting firms to conduct a comprehensive Compensation and Classification Study for county employees. The selected consultant will be expected to provide, at a minimum, the following services:

1. Job Value Survey

o Review and evaluate internal job relationships and organizational structure.

o Assess position responsibilities, knowledge requirements, supervisory duties, and working conditions.

2. Job Analysis and Valuation

o Conduct position analysis through questionnaires, interviews, and/or employee focus groups.

o Evaluate and classify positions using a recognized job evaluation methodology

o Recommend appropriate job classifications and salary grade assignments.

3. Labor Market Salary Survey and Analysis

o Identify comparable public-sector and relevant private-sector employers.

o Conduct a market compensation survey.

o Analyze salary competitiveness and compensation trends.

o Provide findings and recommendations regarding market positioning.

4. Pay Plan Integration and Recommendations

o Develop a recommended salary structure and pay plan.

o Analyze salary compression, inversion, and equity issues.

o Provide recommendations for compression adjustments and implementation strategies.

o Estimate financial impacts associated with recommended adjustments.

o Present findings and recommendations to county administration and governing officials.

Proposal Requirements

Proposals should include:

• Firm qualifications and relevant experience.

• Description of methodology and work plan.

• Project schedule and anticipated completion date.

• References from similar governmental clients.

• Detailed fee proposal.

Submission Information

Proposal packages may be obtained from:

Felicia

Snow Clerk/Auditor

Wayne County 18 S Main, Loa, UT 435-836-1300 felicia@wayne.utah.gov

Proposals must be received no later than June 26.

The County reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, waive informalities, and accept the proposal deemed to be in the best interest of the County

Published in The Wayne and Garfield County Insider on JUNE 11 & 18, 2026

NOTICE TO LEGAL FIRMS

PUBLIC LANDS LEGAL COUNSEL RFP

BEAVER, GARFIELD, KANE, PIUTE & WAYNE COUNTIES

Garfield County, on behalf of Beaver, Garfield, Kane, Piute, and Wayne counties, is requesting proposals from qualified law firms to provide legal counsel and representation on public lands, natural resource, environmental, administrative, and related legal matters involving federal and state agencies.

Estimated available funding is $400,000

Proposals are due by 5:00 p.m. MDT on June 19, 2026. For complete proposal requirements or additional information, contact: David Dodds Garfield County Public Works Director (435) 238-0935 dave.dodds@garfield.utah.gov

Published in The Wayne and Garfield County Insider on JUNE 4, 11 & 18, 2026

NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE

BEING ON A 5829.58 FOOT NON-TANGENT RADIUS CURVE WHOSE CENTER BEARS NORTH 19°53'36" EAST; THENCE SOUTHEASTERLY ALONG THE ARC OF SAID CURVE TO THE LEFT 862.57 FEET THROUGH A CENTRAL ANGLE OF 8°28'40", THENCE SOUTH 78°34'39" EAST ALONG SAID RIGHT OF WAY LINE 170.29 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 51°31'40" WEST 1693.87 FEET; TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. LESS AND EXCEPTING THEREFROM THE WEST 10 ACRES AS MEASURED PARALLEL TO THE WEST LINE OF THE ABOVE DESCRIBED PROPERTY.

Together with all the improvements now or hereafter erected on the property, and all easements, appurtenances, and fixtures now or hereafter a part of the property Tax Parcel No.: 15-0075-0196

The address of the property is purported to be 1609 West Utah State Highway 12, Bryce, Utah 84764. The undersigned disclaims liability for any error in the address. The current Beneficiary of the Trust Deed is Fountainhead Consulting, Inc. a Utah corporation, and the record of owners of the property as of the recording of the notice of default is reported to be Sugar Bluff, LLC, a Wyoming Limited Liability Company.

Notice is hereby given that Vendortrak Title Insurance Agency, LLC, is attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for the purpose, and that the debt may be disputed.

VendorTrak Title Insurance Agency, LLC - 20 North Main, Suite 300 - St. George, Utah 84770 - (435) 652-5101\

Published in The Wayne and Garfield County Insider on JUNE 11, 18 & 25, 2026

NOTICE OF SUMMONS

SUMMONS TO: THE KNOWN AND UNKNOWN DEFENDANT’S ROSA GARCIA BENCOMO, DOES I-IV, JUAREZ BENITEZ-NUNEZ, is seeking quiet title to himself and against you and any other person claiming an interest in the following land located in Garfield County, State of Utah:

Beginning 21.17 chains South of the North quarter corner of Section 17, Township 34 South, Range 5 West, Salt Lake Base and Meridian, thence North 88° 36’ East 12.27 chains, more or less, to the West boundary of State Highway; thence South 3°49’West along said Highway right of way 356 feet ; thence South 88°55’West 782.50 feet; thence North 353 feet, more or less to the point of beginning.

TOGETHER WITH all rights, privileges, easements, right of way, improvements and appurtenances thereunto belonging or in anyway appertaining thereto. Subject to easements, restrictions and rights of way appearing of record or enforceable in law and equity and general property taxes for the year and thereafter.

YOU ARE REQUIRED to file an Answer to the Complaint on file in the 6th Judicial District Court case #260600033 at 55 South Main, Panguitch, Utah 84759 within 30 days of the date of publication of this notice. Failure to do so will result in a default being entered against you and the relief requested in the Complaint being granted in favor of the Plaintiff. Signed: Barry L. Huntington, Attorney for Plaintiff. 435-676-1103.

Published in The Wayne and Garfield County Insider on JUNE 18 & 25 and JULY 2 & 9, 2026

Calassified ds

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.

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

• Secretary at Bryce Valley High School

• Head Cross Country Coach at Bryce Valley 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.

YARD SALE

COMMUNITY

YARD SALE

- SATURDAYS 10 AM ESCALANTE at Main and Center in front of the Catholic church. Free to any vendor for anything you have to sell.

SENIOR CENTER MENUS

Bryce Valley Senior Lunches at the BRYCE VALLEY Senior Center

TUES June 23rd Beer Batter Fish/Roll, Picadilly Chips, Relish Tray, Ramen Cabbage Salad, Pineapple - Cottage Cheese, Chocolate Chip Cookie

WED June 24th Chicken & Bean Enchiladas, Spanish Rice, Roasted Corn w/ Black Beans, Green Salad, Pears, Lemon Bar

THURS June 25th Chef Salad, Ham, Turkey, Cheese, Eggs, Peas, Beans, Orange Slices, Pasta Salad, Cinnamon Roll

Call by 10:00 A.M. if you want a lunch or need a ride. 679-8666 All meals are served with milk & bread. Suggested donation is $4 for seniors and $10 for those under 60 years of age.

Escalante Senior Citizens Menu

Tues. June 23rd Fish, Baked Potato, Coleslaw/White Bread, Grape Salad, Apple Pudding Cake

Wed. June 24th Chicken Strips, Pasta Salad/Tater Tots, Salad Bar, Peaches/Wheat Bread, Ranger Cookies

Thurs. June 25th Pulled Pork, Chips/Salad Bar, Potato Salad, Mixed Fruit, Peanut Butter Cookie

All meals are served with milk or juice. If you would like a meal, please call us by 10:00 am. 826-4317. Suggested donation for seniors over 60 is $4.00, and under 60 is $10.00

HELP WANTED

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

FREE TO ADOPT

Loa Town Cleaning Position Available

Loa Town is currently seeking a part-time individual to assist with cleaning the community center and park

Please note that this position is on an as-needed basis rather than having set hours and days.

If you are interested or would like more details regarding the role, please contact Michelle Brian at 435-616-2643.

Internship Opportunity - County Assessor’s Office

MALE AND FEMALE

MALTESE READY TO GO FREE FOR ADOPTION IF INTERESTED WRITE ME ON craigdw11@gmail. com TO GET MORE DETAILS ON THE PUPPIES.

ISO

We Buy 8,000 Cars a Week. Sell your old, busted or junk car with no hoops, haggles or headaches. Sell your car to Peddle. Easy three step process. Instant offer. Free pickup. Fast payment. Call 1-855-542-0335

The only requirement is the desire to stop drinking. sudoku

Answers for this week

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

Job Title: Data Collector

FLSA: Non-exempt Part Time: 5-8 hours per week

We are seeking a motivated and reliable person to join the County Assessor’s Office as an intern. This position offers hands-on experience in property assessment and field data collection.

Schedule: Fridays starting at 8:00 AM; hours will vary each week (ranging from a few hours up to 8 hours per day).

Position Overview:

As an intern, you will assist the County Assessor and appraisal staff in the field by gathering and verifying property data. This role is ideal for anyone interested in real estate, public service, or gaining practical outdoor work experience.

Key Responsibilities:

• Accompany assessor staff to residential properties throughout the county

• Measure structures and verify building dimensions using standard tools and techniques

• Record property characteristics such as building size, layout, condition, and exterior features

• Assist with sketching basic property outlines and updating field notes

• Take photographs of properties for official records (when required)

• Ensure accuracy and attention to detail while collecting data

• Follow safety guidelines and maintain professionalism when interacting with the public Qualifications:

• Dependable, punctual, and able to follow directions

• Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions

• Strong attention to detail and willingness to learn

• Basic math and measurement skills preferred

• Ability to maintain confidentiality and represent the office professionally This internship provides a valuable opportunity to learn how property assessments are conducted and how they contribute to local government operations. Applications can be obtained at the Wayne County Courthouse in the Clerk’s Office at 18 S. Main Street in Loa. Phone (435) 836-1305 for information. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

Announcement of Positions

Technology Aide / Paraprofessional

Loa Elementary - Wayne School District is accepting applications for a Technology Aide to work closely with our IT Director and School Principal. The school technology aide provides comprehensive technology and computer services for students in the assigned school. They help provide maximum benefits from the use of computers, iPads, and other technology and software. They will consult with and support administration, teachers, staff, and parents to enhance their effectiveness in helping students. They will be supporting the district and school curriculum plan, while maintaining and troubleshooting the technology equipment and software used by students and teachers.

Part of the school day will be spent as a Paraprofessional. You will be required to work closely under teacher supervision with individual students or small groups of students; and provide assistance to teachers in various capacities as assigned.

Experience in education technology, technology services, or related duties is preferred. Candidates must have the following skills: good communication, conflict resolution, professionalism, and help to establish an educational climate that facilitates student success and academic achievement.

This position is for 28 hours a week, with no benefits. The chosen applicant must be fingerprinted and satisfactorily pass an employment background check, and will need to complete the necessary employee paperwork and policy review.

Interested individuals may fill out a written application at Wayne School District Office, or found online at: https://www.waynesd.org/images/pdf/Employment/Classified_Application.pdf

Applications for this position may be submitted in person or electronically to Jennifer.batty@waynesd.org or taken to the District Office.

CLOSING DATE: Open until filled, with the first review of applications on June 25. Wayne School District is an equal opportunity employer and reserves the right to reject any or all applications.

Announcement of Positions Paraprofessional

Loa Elementary - Wayne School District is accepting applications for a Paraprofessional Applicants will be required to work closely under teacher supervision with individual students or small groups of students. You will be performing a variety of tasks relating to the physical and instructional needs of students in a classroom setting, assisting with the implementation of instructional programs, including self-help and behavior management, as well as, instruction, and providing assistance to teachers in various capacities as assigned. Candidates must have the following skills: good communication, conflict resolution, professionalism, and help to establish an educational climate that facilitates student success and academic achievement.

Interested individuals may fill out a written application at Wayne School District Office, or found online at: https://www.waynesd.org/images/pdf/Employment/Classified_Application.pdf

Applications for this position may be submitted in person or electronically to Jennifer.batty@waynesd.org or taken to the District Office.

CLOSING DATE: Open until filled, with the first review of applications on June 25.

Wayne School District is an equal opportunity employer and reserves the right to reject any or all applications.