The Wayne & Garfield County Insider October 2, 2025

21 Waterbodies Still Under Watch/ Warning Advisories for Harmful Algae

UTAH - As of Monday, Sept. 15, there were twenty-one waterbodies under watch and warning advisories across Utah. On Oct. 31, the Utah Division of Water Quality will stop monitoring for harmful algae as temperatures continue to decrease and weather conditions worsen during the fall and winter. However, despite some misconceptions that harmful algal blooms only occur during hot summer weather, they can persist throughout the fall and winter and continue to pose a potential threat to humans and pets.

“By the end of October, many active advisories will be lifted, warning signs posted at waterbodies will start to come down, and website updates on HABs. utah.gov will stop,'' Utah Division of Water Quality Environmental Scientist Dr. Hannah Bonner said.

Bryce Canyon Ultra Marathon Event Hosted

on

Lucky 7 Ranch in Hatch

Bryce Canyon Ultras challenge runners amidst the beautiful landscapes of the Paunsaugunt Plateau by

Jaynie Connor

HATCH - On September 19th, Hatch, Utah, hosted the Bryce Canyon Ultra Marathons, a series of high-altitude trail races. The course sits on the edge of Bryce Canyon National

TORREY - Today, October 2, at 7:00 p.m., Don Gomes will engage in a "Classic Conversation" with Clotilde Barrett at Robber’s Roost, 200 West and Main Street in Torrey. During the hour-long conversation, an in-person audience, as well as viewers on Facebook Live, will be able to direct questions to Clotilde.

Park’s borders, just outside park boundaries. The races feature steep climbs, technical terrain, and elevations that soar between 7,000 and 9,000 feet, and participants are treated to stunning

and expansive views of the Paunsaugunt Plateau. Celebrated for its challenging nature and stunning vistas, it stands as a genuine test of endurance amidst some of the most beautiful land-

CENTRAL UTAH -

The Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation (DOR) is inviting residents and visitors to help shape the future of outdoor recreation in Central Utah through a new community survey. The survey is part of the state’s first-ever regional recreation planning effort and will bring local community input to guide future investments in trails, parks, open space and recreation facilities across the region.

“We want to grow out-

scapes in the West. Organized by Vacation Races— an organization founded in 2012 with the goal of creat-

GARFIELD CO.All three commissioners were present for the September 22 Garfield County Commission meeting. Regardless of a government closure or not, Powell District Forest Ranger Chris Wehrli said the Red Canyon Visitor Center will close Oct. 4, due to DOGE cutbacks. In addition, assuming agency work can continue past Sept. 30, firewood and Christmas tree permits will only be available once a week at the agency offices in Escalante and Panguitch, schedule TBD. Wehrli said the Forest Service is developing an online option for obtaining permits, although, it likely will not be available this year. Commissioner Jerry Taylor said he had twelve permits he could distribute, particularly to older residents who depend on wood for heating.

BOULDER - As the day and nighttime temperatures begin to cool in these first days of fall, it’s time to start planting trees, giving them enough time

to establish over the winter. Boulder Tree City will be holding an Arbor Day Celebration at the Boulder Town Park on Tuesday, October 7, to help you get them planted. Similar to last year, this year's event will inArbor Day Cont'd on A6

Courtesy Cheryl Cox

planting trees in Boulder Town Park at the 2024 Arbor Day Cel-

Courtesy Entrada Institute

Author and master weaver Clotilde Barrett will be the subject of today's "Classic Conversation" hosted by the Entrada Institute at Robber's Roost in Torrey.

Bryce Canyon Ultras Cont'd on B2

Algae Blooms Cont'd on B2

Garfield Commission Cont'd on A6

Clotilde Barrett

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

GARFIELD CO.Garfield Bolder Way Forward is sharing information about Breast Cancer Awareness a little early because many opportunities for mammograms in the area happen early in October.

It is essential to know that breast cancer is the most commonly occurring cancer in U.S. women (excluding skin cancers) and the leading cause of female cancer death in Utah. One in every eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. When breast cancer is detected early, and is in the localized stage, the fiveyear relative survival rate is 99%. Early detection includes monthly breast self-exams and scheduling regular clinical breast exams and mammograms. Although breast cancer screening cannot prevent breast cancer, it can help find breast cancer early.

Utah's breast cancer

by Garfield Bolder Way Forward

screening rates are significantly below the national average: Only 63.8% of Utah women aged 40 or older have had a mammogram in the last two years, compared with 68.2% of U.S. women. The statewide goal is 81%. Mammography is currently the best method for detecting cancer early. Starting at age 40, all women should get a yearly mammogram. Those with a high risk of breast cancer should talk to their doctor about getting mammograms sooner.

Convenience is key when it comes to scheduling a mammogram. While it's recommended to work with your primary care doctor, you do not need a doctor's order to schedule an appointment.

In Garfield and Wayne counties, we're fortunate to have easy access to mammograms, thanks to the mobile mammogram van that visits our towns. This support system makes it easier than ever to schedule a mammogram, simply

by calling 435-676-1547 or 435-676-1267.

The mobile mammogram van will be in Tropic on December 18th, Escalante on October 7th and 8th, Boulder on October 9th, Loa on December 9th and 10th, and Panguitch on October 28th and 29th, November 24th and 25th, and December 16th.

There is also financial help available. Major healthcare organizations and medical diagnostic imaging centers offer options for uninsured or underinsured women, including discounted rates, payment plans, and assistance programs. If you're concerned about the cost, don't let it stop you from getting a mammogram. Call 435-676-1547 or 435676-1267 to learn more about your options. Call to Action Schedule your own mammogram.

• Encourage all women you know aged 40 or older to schedule an annual mammogram. You

may not have the same provider as your mother, sister, or best friend. If you do, try to schedule your tests together and grab lunch or take a walk afterward. Post a photo on social media using the hashtags (#bwfutah #breastcancerawareness). Become a Lemonista. Visit www.knowyourlemons.org. Maybe you have experienced breast cancer, or it has impacted your family, or you feel passionate about women's health. Training provides all you need to lead engaging breast health discussions in your community and empower women with confidence and knowledge for early detection.

A Bolder Way Forward is a UWLP initiative to help girls and women thrive, and includes several areas of focus that contribute to including more women in STEM careers and education.

Public Input Sought for the New Unified Water Infrastructure Plan

SALT LAKE CITY -

The Water Development Coordinating Council will host four public meetings throughout the state in October to gather public input on the new Unified Water Infrastructure Plan (UWIP). These meetings are an opportunity for Utahns to learn more about the state’s new approach to funding water projects and to share their perspectives on Utah’s water future.

The UWIP is being prepared as a result of House Bill 280 from the Utah Legislature in 2024, which also established the new Water Infrastructure

Fund. This proactive planning approach is designed to create a single, comprehensive and prioritized list of water infrastructure projects, ensuring that funds are allocated efficiently and effectively. The UWIP aims to streamline the process for entities seeking funding and improve coordination among the Division of Water Resources, the Division of Drinking Water and the Division of Water Quality.

“Public input is a critical part of building a resilient water future for all of Utah,” said Candice Hasenyager, chair of the Water Development Coordinating Council and director of the

Division of Water Resources. “These public meetings are crucial for us to engage with the communities we serve directly, guiding the local water infrastructure priorities.”

The public meetings will provide an overview of the UWIP prioritization process, its goals and how it will impact local water projects. Attendees will have the chance to ask questions and provide input into the prioritization process that will help shape the plan’s development.

“This new statewide plan represents a major shift towards a more integrated approach to water

management,” said John Mackey, vice chair of the Water Development Coordinating Council and director of the Division of Water Quality. “We are excited about the collaboration this process fosters, as it ultimately leads to better, more resilient outcomes for our communities.”

Details on the dates, times and locations of the four public meetings can be found at the UWIP webpage. For more information, contact Michael Sanchez, public information officer, at 385-226-8967 or email msanchez@utah.gov.

—Utah Division of Water Resources

USDA Forest Service Invests $9.5M in Idaho, Nevada and Utah to Reduce Wildfire Risk to Communities

UTAH / IDAHO / NEVADA - Communi-

ties that have limited resources and face high risk from wildfire are getting additional support from the USDA Forest Service. In an announcement made on Sept. 24, Idaho, Nevada, and Utah will receive nearly $9.5 million in Community Wildfire Defense grant awards, funding four projects in the Intermountain Region.

These grants are part of more than $200 million being invested in fifty-eight projects across twenty-two states and two tribes.

“These grants are about putting resources in the hands of those that know their lands and communities best, so that they can better protect their families, businesses, infrastructure and the future of our shared landscape,” said USDA Secretary Brooke L. Rollins. “Keeping forests healthy, resilient and productive doesn’t come from the top down, it comes from us standing alongside the people and communities we serve, and supporting practical, science-based management that ensures the future of the forests as well as rural prosperity.”

In total, the program is investing $1 billion over five years to assist atrisk communities, including tribal communities, non-profit organizations, state forestry agencies and

Alaska Native Corporations with planning for and mitigating wildfire risks on lands not managed by federal agencies.

“No single organization can tackle the severe fire conditions we face today. It is imperative that we work together to protect our forest and communities,” said USDA Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz. “For those communities that already have plans in place, these investments will enable immediate action to reduce wildfire risk.”

Funded proposals in Idaho, Nevada, and Utah are: City of PocatelloPortneuf Valley Wildfire Risk Reduction and Education Project$4,836,555 Glenbrook Homeowners Association - Glenbrook Community Defensible Space Projects$2,979,732 Nevada Tahoe Conservation District - Upper Kingsbury Fire Adapted Community$1,422,870

• Utah Forestry, Fire and State Lands - Dammeron Valley Wildfire Fuels Mitigation & Community Education Program - $239,122

The Forest Service will announce a fourth funding opportunity later this year.

More information about the funded proposals, as well as announcements about the grant program, is available on the Community Wildfire Defense Grants website.

—U.S. Forest Service

Get Healthy Utah Awarded National Grant to Improve Rural Food Access

PRICE - Get Healthy Utah is one of thirty local nonprofit organizations selected to join the Local Data for Equitable Communities grant program, an initiative funded by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation to support local communities in using data to improve local conditions and help residents live their healthiest lives.

Get Healthy Utah was chosen following a highly competitive selection process that drew applications from across the country, and is the first nonprofit in Utah to receive the grant.

Get Healthy Utah’s project will focus on Price, Utah, where Get Healthy Utah will partner with local organizations to better understand and address access to healthy food. Access to healthy food is vital because it directly impacts

community health and overall quality of life. The need is pressing: The South Eastern Regional Development Agency found that from 2022 to 2024, its agency experienced a 45% increase in clients served, coinciding with the end of key pandemic-era food assistance programs.

The project will begin with gathering and reviewing existing data. Partners will then collect new data to identify barriers and opportunities to improve access to nutritious food. The goal is to create a model that other cities and towns in Utah can use to evaluate and strengthen their own food systems. The Urban Institute will also share key lessons that emerge from the Local Data for Equitable Communities grant program with stakeholders across the country.

“Through a survey with city leaders last year, we learned that many communities want to improve healthy food access but often lack the staff capacity or expertise to take action. This project will give cities a clear process to evaluate their local food systems, use data to guide decisions, and make real, lasting changes that support healthier communities,” said Alysia Ducuara, Executive Director of Get Healthy Utah.

The thirty Local Data for Equitable Communities grant program grantees are located in nineteen states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. Information about the selected projects, as well as updates related to the program, are available at https://localdataforequitablecommunities.org/.

—Get Healthy Utah

News from Wayne County

Bicknell Bottoms a.k.a Red Lake

by Adus F. Dorsey

Bicknell Bottoms is a 670-acre WMA situated along the Fremont River near Bicknell, Utah, and is known for its diverse birdlife and wetland/farmland habitat.

WAYNE CO. - Although Wayne County is well known for its many natural and geological wonders, too many to mention sometimes, there are some that go unnoticed even though we drive by them most every day.

One such location, affectionately known as Bicknell Bottoms, possesses a rather special distinction in Wayne County history that often gets overlooked.

It was A.K. Thurber and Beason Lewis who were first credited with setting up camp and building cabins in the tall grasses in proximity to what is today known as Government Creek near the Fremont River. Who set foot first in the area is still a point of contention and much discussion around the table at family dinners. What is generally agreed upon, over dishes of dessert, is the fact that both men were prominent in early Wayne County history, and their names are still mentioned with reverence and distinction.

Another such person that occupies quite a few pages in the Wayne County bible—Rainbow Views which was compiled and written by E.P. Pectol and Ann Snow—is Warren Snow of Black Hawk War fame.

In some family accounts, Warren Stone Snow is remembered as someone having a magnetic personality, though, his fifth wife, Sara Brown, remembers him differently. Brigham Young held Brother Warren in high regard because of his long and faithful allegiance to the church and dedicated, and sometimes heavy-handed, service in settling arguments with apostates and Native Americans.

1865 was an unusually troubling year for the Mormon settlers in the Sevier Valley; disgruntled and hungry Native Americans had killed and wounded several people out of revenge. In the book Rainbow Views, it is recounted that “Indians were prowling around Circleville, and they had camp near Fish Lake.”

General Snow—along with 103 men, including Colonel John Ivie’s company of cavalry men from Mount Pleasant, Captain N.S. Beache’s company from Manti, and recruits from other companies— mounted his horse and proceeded to investigate conditions in Circleville.

It was during this hot pursuit that General Snow pursued the Native Americans into Grass Valley. General Snow and his band of merry men arrived on September 18th, and

on the following day, they marched up the east fork of the Sevier River to Clover Flat, where they pitched their canvas tents for the night. To their surprise the next morning, scouts had found fresh pony tracks that came within half a mile of their camp.

With renewed vigor after a good night sleep, General Snow and his men worked their way down the canyon into open country. When the company reached flat land, at Red Lake, not far from Thousand Lake Mountain, scouts grew cautious with a suspicious feeling that they were being watched and halted. General Snow and Colonel Ivie then proceeded up a black rock ridge to survey the surrounding country.

At once, Colonel Ivies spied a ramrod wiggling behind a bush only a few yards away and excitedly exclaimed, “There they are.” A volley of gunfire immediately followed Ivie’s hysterical shout. An Native American bullet hit and seriously wounded General Snow in the shoulder. The men retreated to their company, and a fierce gun battle ensued.

Some accounts say Brigadier General Warren S. Snow of Sanpete County was never the same after the Battle of Bicknell Bottoms (Red Lake).

Another chapter in the history of the Bicknell Bottoms / Thurber area is the story of irrigation and the saga that began with an irrigator, shovel in hand, coaxing a trickle of water onto the dry land. And thus, the development of the town of Thurber ensued.

In 1877, Levi, George, and Willard Brinkerhoff, along with Jeremiah and George Stringham, each came and took up a quarter section of land north of the Fremont River. They constructed the Tub Ditch to bring water from the river and ponds to their property.

Homesteads along the river proved too wet for cultivated crops but was good pastureland.

The small settlement of Thurber, near the Bicknell Bottoms, grew in number, and residents began to get sick. It became apparent that the water supply from the open irrigation canals was a problem, and upon direction from church leaders, the residents of Thurber were instructed to move to higher ground. After this, the ground near the Bicknell Bottoms became prized farmland, and in some instances, it was returned to its original state.

It is generally understood that Utah Wildlife Management Areas (WMA), like Bicknell Bottoms, were established by the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR) in the 1920s to provide winter range, food, and shelter for big game animals and waterfowl. The land, originally a shallow lake, was acquired and converted into a mix of wetlands and farmland, attracting various bird species. The initial WMAs were created to address habitat loss and to serve as critical winter ranges for wildlife.

Bicknell Bottoms is a 670-acre WMA situated along the Fremont River near Bicknell, Utah, and is known for its diverse birdlife and wetland/farmland habitat.

Today, 2025, Bicknell Bottoms, scenically situated south of Highway 24 between miles markers 60 and 63, is sometimes controversial in Wayne County history.

References: Rainbow Views, Ann Snow, The Black Hawk War, Utah History To Go, The story of irrigation in Utah, Utah History Encyclopedia, Utah Division of Water Rights, Aldus Chappell, The Settlement of Wayne County to 190, Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR-DNR)

Adus F. Dorsey II

Wills, Trusts, and More

Simply Perfect Ways to Give to Charity

When doing your estate planning, you have the chance to benefit those individuals and institutions that benefited you in your lifetime. Many charitable donors have shown their appreciation to different charities by making provisions for the organization in their wills or trusts.

Whether you have a large or small estate, it is very easy to make a simple charitable donation in your will or trust.

First, when doing your estate planning, you can inform your estate planning attorney that you want a certain percentage, or a specific amount, of your estate to be distributed to the particular charity (this can be a church, school, or other charitable organization). Your gift does not have to be large. Small amounts add up.

Your example of generosity and civic-mindedness, evidenced by a pro-

by Jeffery J. McKenna

vision in your will or trust to provide for a specific charity, may be of more lasting value to your loved ones than the assets you actually leave them.

The simple process of leaving a certain percentage of your estate to the charity can be accomplished through a will or trust. The procedure should not increase the cost of your estate plan nor the estate administration.

Another very simple method to provide for a charitable bequest upon your death is to add the charity as a beneficiary of your IRA. The process would require you to visit with your IRA provider and request that a new IRA account be established with whatever amount you want from your existing IRA account. This new account (or existing account if you want to use the entire

amount of your existing account) would name the desired charity as the beneficiary.

Giving the charitable organization a portion of your IRA has many tax advantages. Upon your death, the proceeds in the IRA would be paid directly to the charity. Significantly, no income taxes would have to be paid. If the IRA proceeds were distributed to your children or grandchildren, they would have to pay income tax on the distribution. Using an IRA to make a simple bequest to a charity greatly benefits the organization, and saves income taxes for your heirs. Additionally, it can save estate taxes as well.

This article gives a few simple techniques to help those that want to benefit a charitable organization. I hope these techniques can be of assistance to you.

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

Photos

A New York attorney representing a wealthy art collector called his client and said to him, “Saul, I have some good news, and I have some bad news.”

The art collector replied, “I’ve had an awful day; let’s hear the good news first.”

The attorney said, “Well, I met with your wife today, and she informed me that she invested $5,000 in two pictures that she thinks will bring a minimum of $15-20 million. I think she could be right.”

Saul replied enthusiastically, “Well done! My wife is a brilliant businesswoman! You’ve just made my day. Now I know I can handle the bad news. What is it?”

The attorney replied, “The pictures are of you with your secretary.”

Long Life

A tough old cowboy from Texas counseled his granddaughter that if she wanted to live a long life, the secret was to sprinkle a pinch of gun powder on her oatmeal every morning.

The granddaughter did this religiously until the age of 103, when she died.

She left behind 14 children, 30 grandchildren, 45 great-grandchildren, 25 great-great-grandchildren, and a 40-foot hole where the crematorium used to be.

THEME: Kid's Books

ACROSS

1. *The Big Bad Wolf: "I'll ____ your house down"

5. Edgar Rice Burroughs' Kerchak or Kala 8. Cosine's buddy 12. Target of grand theft 13. Influencer's journal

Food-grinding tooth

15. Bear's hang-out 16. Like a maxi skirt

Get up 18. *Robert McCloskey's "Make Way for ____" 20. March Madness org.

21. Expenditure, in the olden days

22. *"Four and twenty blackbirds baked in a ____"

23. Turn pale

26. Lachrymatory agent (2 words)

30. Swimmer's distance

31. Rinse and ____

34. Consequently

35. Join forces

37. Bruin legend Bobby

38. Jury duty event

39. Per person

40. Hockey player, e.g.

42. Approximated landing time

43. What naughty children do

45. Fortification made of wagons

47. Preceding month

48. Unnecessary embellishment

50. Customs document

52. *He had a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day 56. Popular pie nut 57. Not final 58. Just a little

Choice dish 60. ____-do-well 61. Sudden and brilliant success

Doofus

Is, in France

Fail to mention

Mother's Day

Two children ordered their mother to stay in bed one Mother's Day morning.

As she lay there looking forward to breakfast in bed, the smell of bacon floated up from the kitchen. But after a good long wait she finally went downstairs to investigate. She found them both sitting at the table eating bacon and eggs.

"As a surprise for Mother's Day," one explained, "we decided to cook our own breakfast."

1. Like a certain eagle

Oahu shindig

Related to ear

Exert persuasive powers (2 words) 5. Jennifer Aniston's movie "____ Came Polly" 6. *Canine father in Dodie Smith's "The Hundred and One Dalmatians"

*Dr. Seuss: "I do not like green ____ and ham"

*Philosopher in American edition of "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone"

Hipbone

Last Sunday, a small storm added a little more water to our system, but our water year has now all but run out. It has been a really dry year; I don’t think we got as much as 5” for the year. I didn’t have to shovel any snow; it all melted by the afternoon. Our monsoon storms didn’t do much either. But it is what it is. There is a picture of the new dam up at the lake, and they think that it will be done before summer. One good thing is that they aren’t letting out any more water than usual, and so it won’t take so long to fill up this time.

There has been some sad news for the followers of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-say Saints. The president of the church, Russel M. Nelson, has passed away, just a few weeks after his 101st birthday. President Nelson made many changes in the church and was a wonderful prophet. He served as president for over seven years.

It looks like we are going to have a second season after all. Our family went to the Cowboy's Smokehouse Cafe for dinner and had to wait for a half hour for a table. I went down to the salad bar and back and didn’t recognize anyone but the waitresses. The food was as great as always and worth waiting for.

The second season of Major League Baseball starts this week, and it looks like there are twelve teams in it. Four of those will be gone in a one game playoff. The playoffs could run into November.

In college news, BYU is the only undefeated team left in Utah, and as the sea-

by Mack Oetting ~ mackoetting

son goes by, they will face tougher competition. Utah is in a different league now, and has been meeting up with different teams than it did before.

October has a lot of fun things going on in the month, ending up with Halloween on the last day. Panguitch is putting on its annual Scarecrow Contest, and on the 4th, it will be a light festival. Then on the 18th, there will be a scarecrow judging. It is getting darker out there, with sunset now being at around 7:00 p.m. Watch out for the little ones; they now have powered scooters. They seem to go as fast as the scooters

will take them, and they are often without a helmet.

Be wary of investing in the stock market. Elon Musk put $10 billion into his Tesla stock, and it is going up. The government also dumped $10 billion into a stock, and that made the market go up 600 points, where it has been for two weeks now.

Yes, I have stock in Ford and GM, and they are moving also. At the UN General Assembly last week, the president said that global warming is nothing but a giant hoax. So far, they have cancelled work orders for Revolution Wind, a $4 billion, 65 turbine wind farm set to

power more than 350,000 homes in Rhode Island and Connecticut next year. Construction on it is 80% complete. Pat and I will be going down to San Diego next week to check on our great-grandchild; he just turned one this week. Anyone on the internet probably knows what he looks like. We get daily pictures of him entertaining his family.

If you hear a lot of sirens and horn honking this Saturday night, it means that the Bobcats baseball team has won another state championship.

Mack O.

SBA Loans Now Available to Help Utah Businesses Impacted by Drought

by Kyle Dunphey |

UTAH - Utah businesses and nonprofits impacted by the drought are now able to apply for low interest federal disaster loans, the U.S. Small Business Administration announced.

Following an exceptionally dry summer, all of Utah is currently in drought —most of the state is in “severe” drought, while some desert regions are rated as “extreme.” A number of the state’s reservoirs are below 50% capacity with just two, Current Creek and Strawberry, above 85%. Great Salt Lake levels are veering back into dangerously low levels, while statewide precipitation data puts 2025 at far below the ten-year average.

Utah Gov. Spencer Cox has already issued a state of emergency related to the drought. Now, the federal government is announcing

Utah News Dispatch

emergency loans, covering nine counties in Utah—Box Elder, Cache, Duchesne, Rich, Salt Lake, Summit, Utah, Wasatch and Weber— and three in Idaho —Bear Lake, Franklin and Oneida.

Now, small businesses, agricultural cooperatives, nurseries and private nonprofits (which include faithbased organizations) experiencing financial losses related to the drought can apply for assistance through the Economic Injury Disaster Loan program, administered by the Small Business Administration, or SBA.

The SBA said in a news release that losses don’t have to be physical —the loans can be used to pay debts, payroll, accounts payable and other costs incurred due to the drought.

“Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agri-

culture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA, said in a statement. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.” The loans can cover up to $2 million, with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses, and 3.6% for private nonprofits, with terms up to thirty years. The interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months after they are distributed.

To learn more about the loans, visit the SBA’s website.

This article was originally published on utahnewsdispatch.com on September 12, 2025.

Learn About Utah’s Nocturnal Wildlife During ‘Spooky Season' at Upcoming Hardware Wildlife Education Center Exhibit

HYRUM - Did you know Utah’s outdoors are busy places while you’re asleep? You can learn why

and see amazing photographs of the animals that are out and about by visiting a free exhibit at the

Hardware Wildlife Education Center in October.

The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources' Hardware Wildlife Education Center is located at the Hardware Wildlife Management Area in beautiful Blacksmith Fork Canyon in Cache County. The education center is open seasonally for various exhibits and during the winter months while the sleigh rides and elk viewing are taking place.

In October, the center will be open for a free Night Life exhibit from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on three weekends:

• Oct. 3-5

Oct. 17-19

• Oct. 24- 26

“The wildlife you’ll learn about are those you’ll most likely hear at night while you’re sleeping in your tent or that you may encounter during a midnight walk,” Utah Division of Wildlife Resources Hardware Wildlife Education Center Director Marni Lee said. “There are many reasons why nighttime is the right time for these animals to be active. We encourage you to come to the center to learn more about Utah’s ‘scariest’ wildlife during

the spookiest month of the year.” The exhibit includes display panels with jawdropping photographs and fun facts about each animal and bird. Activities for your family—including free craft projects and hourly story times— will also be offered. A path near the center will become an educational walk with enlarged book pages offering fun animal activities.

“We hope you’ll join us to learn more about Utah’s nocturnal wildlife and enjoy some free fun with your family,” Lee said. You can reach the Hardware Wildlife Education Center by traveling fifteen miles out of Hyrum on state Route 101. With the fall colors on full display, the drive up Blacksmith Fork Canyon should be gorgeous. Fall fishing is also available in the Blacksmith Fork River that flows down the canyon. For more information about the upcoming exhibit or visiting hours, call the education center at 435-753-6206.

—Utah Division of Wildlife Resources

Arbor Day: We are excited to help plant trees at the park and to add another fruit tree to the collection at the school.

—Lucas Tamminem

in Boulder Town Park at the 2024 Arbor Day Cel-

This year, Boulder Tree City will again be holding an Arbor Day Celebration at the town park on Tuesday, October 7. After the park trees are planted, participants will each be able to take home a free fruit or shade tree and can use the tips they learned at the event to plant them successfully.

clude a tree planting workshop (which includes a free tree for each participant), as well as a community celebration.

Starting at 2 p.m., participants will help plant six to eight fruit and shade trees at the town park, with professional staff and an arborist from TreeUtah present to demonstrate and offer tips. TreeUtah is a nonprofit that acts as a matchmaker between donors and tree planting projects. The fifty trees available in the giveaway, as well as trees given to the park and school, are funded by a TreeUtah grant and are varieties chosen specifically by TreeUtah because they either have done well, or are likely to do well, in this area.

The workshop will also include a presentation from Boulder Elementary School and local homeschool students. The students will begin preparation for the event with a tree art project taught by Jeanne Zeigler the week prior. On the day of the Arbor Day Celebration, the students will work together, with TreeUtah staff, to plant a fruit tree at the school. They will then will come to the park to participate in the community planting. “We are excited to help plant trees at the park and to add another fruit tree to the collection at the school,” says teacher Lucas Tamminem.

Sixth grader Violet Trombley says of the last tree event, “I loved finding all the worms in the ground and untying them last year.”

Worms are a signal of healthy soil—and can

be hard to cultivate in the largely sandy ground of this area. Included in the workshop will be tips to help “dig a million dollar hole,” giving your tree the nutrients it will need to thrive and, over time, hopefully, welcome in those worms.

After the park trees are planted, participants will each be able to take home their free tree and use the tips learned to plant them successfully. While last year’s giveaway featured only shade trees, this year there are forty fruit trees and ten shade trees available, due to community feedback.

The tree giveaway will support Tree City and the town in the "10,000 Trees by 2033" initiative. This initiative began in 2023, and tracks the number of trees planted in Boulder over a decade. It is part of a larger movement, where different areas are committing to plant a certain number of trees.

The community celebration will begin at 5 p.m. Local musicians Jabe Beal, Tony Bertucci, Jimmy Vega and Josh Stansfield will be performing. There will be an apple press for fresh apple cider. Attendees are encouraged to bring apples, and containers to take home cider. There may be an acorn processing demonstration, depending on availability of acorns. There will also be a tree

Garfield Commission:

On Sept. 22, the Garfield County Commission discussed the closure of Red Canyon Visitor Center due to DOGE cutbacks, firewood and Christmas tree permits, legislation to protect historic sites, and the Escalante District project of replacing existing stream fish with Colorado cutthroat trout.

Taylor also reported on attending a Bryce Canyon Gateway Community meeting. He suggested all mayors and council members throughout the county be invited to these gateway community meetings, including any involving Grand Staircase.

grafting information table.

Smallcanyon Kitchen will be there with a taco bar, serving slow roasted sweet pork tacos and diced sweet potato and local zucchini tacos, with black beans and street corn salad on the side; adults are $15 and children are $10. The event will also feature a potluck dessert table.

For those who have already registered for the workshop, Tree City sends a reminder that it’s a great time to prepare for your new tree by setting up a watering system, digging the hole, gathering mulch and support and caging materials to protect the tree from deer. To register or ask questions, email bouldertreecity@ gmail.com.

Commissioner Leland Pollock reported on a “very successful” meeting with the new Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz in Washington, D.C. Pollock called the Chief’s attitude a "paradigm shift" toward giving local communities more input in Forest Service decisions. Specifically, Pollock was hoping to secure timber resources for a sawmill trying to reopen in the area. "Now I think we may be able to work out a twenty-year contract to keep this sawmill going. The owners have told us they could easily hit the one hundred employee mark if they have the resources," Pollock said.

On the legislative front, prompted by the Promise Rock issue, Commissioner Pollock reported that he’s working with Rep. Albrecht on legislation to protect historic sites. Two locations per county, up to 300 acres per site, could be designated as historic sites if they have proven ties to local culture, custom, and heritage. The legislation, if enacted, would sunset after two years, providing a window for counties to identify their sites.

Public Works, Dave

Dodds: A new dead animal pit in Tropic is being developed. A Region 3 NICA (National Interscholastic Cycling Association) mountain bike race was held Sept. 20, and a Region 6 race is scheduled for Sept. 27, totaling over 2,000 registrants. The race venue, near the Casto Canyon Trailhead, was prepped and maintained by the county road crew, which Dodds claimed is “definitely worth the investment,” in terms of numbers of people overnighting in the county.

The Driedonks, owners of Bryce Wildlife Adventures Museum on Highway 12, came before the commission to inform them that they are closing their museum due to financial hardship.

Charles Chamberlain, Wildlife Coordinator for Dixie National Forest, reported on the Escalante District project of replacing existing stream fish with Colorado cutthroat trout. He said West Fork of Pine Creek and Upper Pine Creek will be completed within the next couple years. Commissioners noted past resistance among the public to these treatments. Regarding beaver, the commissioners said they had no objection to beavers at higher elevations “where they aren’t interfering with irrigation systems,” to which Chris Wehrli said to “give him a call;” the Forest Service will trap and move beaver to acceptable locations.

Jaff Raisor, Southern Utah Outreach for Senator Curtis, said the senator wants to stay in touch with

county interests and issues. The commissioners listed several such topics of concern, including PILT and SRS payments, public lands, forest and timber, and more. In other business, the commission:

• recognized Amy Dodds (10 years) and Garrett Owens (20 years) for Employee Longevity Awards;

• approved $25,800 for the Panguitch Fire Department’s purchase of a new self-contained breathing apparatus, compressor, and fill station;

• approved a resolution presented by Boulder Town representatives declaring November 19 (Garfield’s birthday) as James A. Garfield Day, in honor of the county’s namesake; proclaimed the first week of October as National 4-H Week throughout Garfield County; and approved business licenses for The Pods, (STR); Mountain View Villa, (STR); and Jadein's Burger Spot. The Commission went into executive session to discuss personnel. 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 Garfield 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/.

Courtesy Cheryl Cox

Participants planting trees

ebration.

Garfield Commission Cont'd from A1

Arbor Day

Cont'd from A1

Schools and Sports

Welcome to the Jungle: A Roaring Start to the School Year at Wayne High School; WCSD Recognizes Employees

by Nikki Stringham | Wayne School District, Character Education/SEL Director | Wayne High School, Assistant Principal

WAYNE CO. - Wayne High School is off to a phenomenal start for the 20252026 school year, living up to its "Welcome to the Jungle" theme with a vibrant, positive energy that's palpable throughout the halls. According to Wayne High School Principal David Chappell, the most remarkable aspect of the year so far is the "positive environment that exists among the staff and the students." That sentiment is echoed by faculty and students alike. Librarian Mrs. Freedom Kezos is thrilled with the uptick in student library traffic, while Study Skills teacher Mrs. Tracie Fallis praises the strong staff camaraderie and teamwork. Even the school’s technological transition has been a resounding success, with Mrs. Stephanie Williams, a Health, Computer/Technology, and Business teacher, ecstatic about the smooth rollout of new systems, including dynamic screen updates, Mrs. Geneva Peterson’s Monday morning broadcasts, and the use of iPads for the Wayfinder (Character Education) program. The school is buzzing with excitement, and it’s clear that everyone, from administration to the newest student, is ready for a fantastic year.

The new school year isn’t just about academics, it's about a thriving student experience. For some, like 7th grader Jake Ekker, that means thrilling new opportunities such as archery lessons in PE class. For others, it's the joy of familiar faces and subjects, with

(Top L to R) Wayne School District Superintendent Randy Shelley (in

Kenzie Dickinson, (bottom L to R) Lisa Stevens, Wendy Potter, and Megan

for the Wayne School District Employee Recognition Award. This award highlights staff members who go above and beyond in their daily work, and recipients are nominated and chosen by their own co-workers.

8th grader Brinlee Burningham expressing her love for Mrs. Jenny Peterson’s math class. Mrs. Stringham is using a little technology to track attendance/behaviors, and that is leading to great prizes for zero tardies, zero behaviors, and zero unexcused absences. The school spirit is running high, and students are taking notice of their surroundings, with GearUp Advisor Mrs. Linda

BVHS Athlete of the Week by Coach

BRYCE - Genesis Syrett was nominated by girls cross country coach Katy Cooke as the Bryce Valley High School Athlete of the Week.

Syrett is the kind of athlete every cross country team needs, says Cooke. She leads by example, showing up with determination and a strong work ethic every day. Her drive to keep pushing herself not only raises her own performance but also inspires her teammates to dig deeper and give their best. Syrett’s leadership, grit, and encouragement make her an invaluable part of the team. Way to go, Genesis!

Hunter noting that students are truly "taking pride in our building." The athletic and extracurricular scene is also flourishing. The girls’ cross country team clinched first place at a recent invitational, and the volleyball team is a regional powerhouse, currently ranked 1st in Region 20 and 2nd in 1A. Looking ahead, students have even more to get excited about with the new ESports Club, a chance to support the boys at the Baseball Senior Night, and a community-focused volleyball Pink Game planned for September 30.

The feeling of success and community isn't limited

to the faculty and teams, it's a feeling that resonates deeply with the student body. Senior Miguel Whipple is celebrating his achievements in class, while fellow senior Karter Thomas says it's "all about the academic wins." The school’s new four-day week schedule is a big hit with junior Alexis PinedaBravo, who exclaimed, “NO FRIDAYS!” And for many, the school is providing new and exciting opportunities, whether it’s the variety of clubs available this year, which 11th grader Rylan Taylor loves, or the chance to play volleyball in the brandnew gym, which is a high-

BVHS Student of the Week

by Ty

Aiden Perry was nominated by Ty Post as the Bryce Valley High School Student of the Week.

BRYCE - Aiden Perry was nominated by Ty Post as the Bryce Valley High School Student of the Week. You can always count on Perry working and using

his time wisely in weights class, says Post. He makes sure to work with a partner to do various exercises to increase his strength and endurance. Keep it up, Aiden!

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS: UPCOMING GAMES...

Bryce Valley High School

Baseball: 10/3: State (1st Round)

10/6: State Quarterfinals

Volleyball: 10/8: Against Wayne 10/17-18: 1A-2A Clash @ SVC

Cross Country: 10/2: Bryce Valley Meet 10/8: Against Water Canyon

Panguitch

High School

Football: 10/3: Against St. Joseph

10/10: Against Water Canyon 10/17: Against Altamont

light for Cienna Cropper. Beyond the daily schedule, students are also engaging in unique learning experiences, such as the stargazing activity led by Mr. Moore and Mr. Science for the Science Club. As Principal Chappell stated, this is shaping up to be the best year yet, a sen-

timent undoubtedly shared by everyone at Wayne High School, as they work together to make this year a resounding success.

Wayne School District is proud to celebrate the incredible people who make our schools such a special place. Our Employee Recognition Award highlights staff members who go above and beyond in their daily work—simply by doing what they do best. What makes this recognition truly meaningful is that award recipients are nominated and chosen by their own co-workers, the people who see their dedication and impact every single day. This program reflects what we already know to be true: Wayne School District has the best people in the business. Being recognized by colleagues is not only an honor, but also a reminder that every role in our district matters, and together we create an environment where staff and students th rive. The first six nominees are: Wendy Potter (Loa Elementary/Hanksville Elementary Principal), Lisa Stevens (Wayne High School front desk/Attendance Secretary), Jared Hallows (District Technology Director), Mike Bray (Wayne High School 7-8 grade Social Studies and PE, 7th grade Math), Megan Hiskey (Loa Elementary Preschool Teacher), and Kenzie Dickinson (Hanksville Aide).

PHS Sports Sidelines

Mack Oetting

by

The Cats had another great week. The baseball team came away with two more wins. In a squeaker with Bryce Valley, they made a two run game into a victory. Against Piute, one of the power house teams, there wasn’t any contest; the Cats came away with a 16-0 win on Piute's home field.

This is the week for the championships, and the last few years, they have taken place in St. George, which is close enough for the fans to attend. Good luck, Bobcats! You can do it.

The Lady Cats had quite a week, first meeting up with 4A Pine View; they had some really tall girls on the team. The Bobcats really took it to them. They were trailing, 20-16, when our server hit eight serves in a row to win the game, 25-21. The

second game was close, but Pine View, won that one. It was all Cats in the third game, and they had a 2 to 1 lead. In the 4th game, Pine View finally got some use out of their taller players and won it. The fifth game was close, but Pine View won, but the Cats showed that they can play with anyone. They have won five out of the seven games that they have played against bigger schools.

The next night, they played Wayne, and the best score that he Badgers could get was 15.

Last Tuesday night, the Cats got to play another 3A school in Richfield, and we were the home team.

Hopefully, you got to see this team. It is outstanding, and it is made up of mostly sophomores, so they should be good for some time.

The Cats have some more away games: Oct. 1st against Water Canyon and at Piute on the 8th. The cross country team will be running tonight at Bryce Valley and at Water Canyon on the 8th.

Wayne High School

Volleyball: 10/8: Against Piute 10/11: Against Delta 10/16: Against Parowan Volleyball: 10/2: Against

Post

Courtesy Rowdy Miller

Katy Cooke

Courtesy Rowdy Miller

Genesis Syrett was nominated by girls cross country coach Katy Cooke as the Bryce Valley High School Athlete of the Week.

Courtesy Nikki Stringham

all pictures), Mike Bray, Jared Hallows,

Hiskey are the first six nominees

Bryce Canyon Ultras:

When signing up for the race (30k), I knew that the course didn’t go through the actual park, but I was excited to see the surrounding scenery. The course was so pretty, and that’s exactly why I run trail races. Running through stunning landscapes and constantly being wowed by the views is my constant motivation while racing.

—Katie Ely, 30K runner at the Bryce Canyon Ultra Marathon Event

Katie Ely ran in the 30K race of the Bryce Canyon Ultra Marathon event on September 19. The races feature steep climbs, technical terrain, and elevations that soar between 7,000 and 9,000 feet, and participants are treated to stunning and expansive views of the Paunsaugunt Plateau. “Bryce Canyon is so stunning. I love the red rocks and hoodoos,” Ely said.

Courtesy Vacation Races

The Bryce Canyon Ultra Marathons—organized by Vacation Races and taking place at Lucky 7 Ranch in Hatch—feature steep climbs, technical terrain, and elevations that soar between 7,000 and 9,000 feet, and participants are treated to stunning and expansive views of the Paunsaugunt Plateau. The event offers multiple race distances ranging from a 30K to a 50k, 60k, 50 miles and even 100 miles.

Bryce Canyon Ultras

Cont'd from A1

ing running events in and around the country’s most iconic national parks—the event offered multiple distances ranging from a 30K to a 50k, 60k, 50 miles and even 100 miles.

“Our mission is to challenge perceived limi-

tations and showcase human potential by building a true community of belonging through innovative, thoughtfully planned, and sustainable endurance events. Every race we design is meant to inspire people to see what they’re capable of while experiencing the beauty of the world around them,” said Josh

Oliveri, Director of Operations at Vacation Races.

All of the races began early in the morning so that runners had maximum daylight to complete their courses. The landscape features a blend of single track, forest roads, rocky ascents, sandy paths, and technical areas, all set against the backdrop of the region's iconic hoodoos. While the stunning landscapes are a major draw of the event, the challenges presented are quite substantial. High altitude complicates breathing and pacing, mornings can be chilly, and afternoons are often marked by intense sunlight. Additionally, aid stations are spaced quite far apart, necessitating careful planning for hydration and nutrition among runners.

The Bryce Canyon Ultras’ start and finish lines are located on Lucky 7 Ranch in Hatch. “Lucky 7 Ranch has been part of Utah’s story since 1872. There’s a legendary spirit here that you can feel in every fencepost and canyon,” said Matt Walter, manager of Lucky 7 Ranch. “Having the race headquarters on this historic land gave the Bryce Canyon Ultra a sense of place and legacy that turned the event into more than just a race—but a chapter in the ranch’s ongoing story. This was a fun event to have here in Garfield County, a great economic driver, and we’re excited to welcome the incredible runners and Vacation Races team again in the future.”

Red Butte Garden Announces 2025 Garden After Dark: Trouble in Oz

SALT LAKE CITYRed Butte Garden and Arboretum will present Garden After Dark from October 16-30, 2025. This annual, muchanticipated fall festival transforms the garden with immersive storytelling, atmospheric lighting, and original artistic scenes created especially for the natural landscape. This year’s theme, Trouble in Oz, invites guests of all ages to embark on a glowing adventure down the yellow brick road to discover nature’s hidden ties to the people and places of a shadowed Land of Oz.

Guests can expect evenings filled with color, mystery, and imagina-

tive twists that come alive only after dark. Tickets for Garden After Dark went on sale October 1. Event hours are 6-9 p.m. Ticket prices range from $13-$23 on Monday through Thursday and Sunday nights, and $18-$23 on Friday and Saturday.

For a specially curated, all-abilities accessible experience, Hocus Crocus Hour will be offered on Saturdays, October 18 and October 25, from 5-6 p.m. Garden After Dark 2025 Supporting Sponsor is Bank of America. More event details at: redbuttegarden.org/events/gardenafter-dark About Red Butte Garden and Arboretum:

Red Butte Garden and Arboretum is one of the largest botanical gardens in the Intermountain West, a regional center for plantfocused science education, conservation and research, and cultural enrichment. Community-funded, the Garden is renowned for its diverse plant collections, 21 acres of themed gardens, and five miles of hiking trails in a spectacular mountain setting. Highlights include 590,000 springtime blooming bulbs, award-winning horticulture-based educational programs, and an iconic outdoor summer concert series. redbuttegarden.org. Red Butte Garden and Arboretum

going out for a run, it’s almost always on trail.”

Ely started trail running just a few years ago and has run the Moab Trail Marathon and Half Marathon. Coming from northern Utah, the altitude wasn’t as much of an adjustment for Ely as it was for other runners, though since she is not a professional runner and not looking to necessarily win the race, she says it is best for her to take breaks and go slower if she needs to. “I’m also a big fan of walking the uphills and just walking anytime I feel like it,” said Ely.

Bryce Canyon 30k Runner Katie Ely, a Salt Lake City resident who came down for the race stated, “Bryce Canyon is my favorite national park, so I knew I had to sign up for this race once I heard about it. I’m lucky enough to live in Utah near a lot of trails, so it’s pretty easy to find similar terrain to train. I also prefer to run on trails rather than roads, so if I’m

Ely said the most memorable moment for her during the race was around mile nine. “Flying down a downhill section into the aid station at mile ten, felt amazing,” she said. “I chatted with a nice guy who was running behind me for the last few miles, and we ended up running together for a little bit after the aid station. It was fun to have a running buddy for a moment.” The most challenging aspect of the course, she noted, was the final few miles, where the trail exits Dixie National Forest and heads into the Lucky 7 Ranch area toward the finish line.

Algae Blooms:

The other racers— for the 50k, 60k, 50 mile and 100 mile races—ran alongside the iconic Bryce hoodoos as they made their way further into the park.

The Bryce Canyon Ultras proved to be more than just a test of endurance for its participants, it was a celebration of breathtaking landscapes, personal grit, and the welcoming spirit of Garfield County. With runners pushing themselves against the challenges of altitude and terrain, and the Lucky 7 Ranch providing a historic and memorable backdrop, both participants and local residents can take pride in an event that highlights the scenic trails and the strong spirit of the region.

“The balance of personal challenge, community, and unforgettable scenery, is at the heart of everything we do. We invite people to run, walk, jog, or roll their way to their next big finish line, while discovering some of the most beautiful places on earth,” said Oliveri.

Ely was taken with the landscape during the course. “Bryce Canyon is so stunning. I love the red rocks and hoodoos,” she said. “When signing up for the race (30k), I knew that the course didn’t go through the actual park, but I was excited to see the surrounding scenery. The course was so pretty, and that’s exactly why I run trail races. Running through stunning landscapes and constantly being wowed by the views is my constant motivation while racing.”

By the end of October, many active advisories will be lifted, warning signs posted at waterbodies will start to come down, and website updates on HABs.utah.gov will stop. However, it’s essential to know that these blooms can continue in colder weather. People should know what to look for, and when in doubt, keep your pets and hunting dogs out of the water.

—Dr. Hannah Bonner, Utah Division of Water Quality Environmental Scientist

On August 22 of this year, the U.S. Forest Service issued a HAB (Harmful Algal Blooms) warning advisory for Panguitch Lake. Despite some misconceptions that harmful algal blooms only occur during hot summer weather, they can persist throughout the fall and winter and continue to pose a potential threat to humans and pets.

“However, it’s essential to know that these blooms can continue in colder weather. People should know what to look for, and when in doubt, keep your pets and hunting dogs out of the water.”

Blooms form when naturally occurring cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, multiply to high densities and form visible water discoloration, scum and mats. Harmful algal blooms can look like pea soup, spilled paint, grass clippings or water that has a green or bluegreen hue. Harmful algae mats grow on the bottom of rivers or standing water in shades of green or brown and are generally slimy, velvety or jelly-like, with a musty smell.

Cyanobacteria can

produce several kinds of toxins that can affect liver, nerve and skin tissue. If you suspect a harmful algal bloom in the water or algae mats along the edge of the water or in wetlands, stay out of the water and avoid any contact with water or scum. Be sure to clean waterfowl and fish well with clean water, and discard all guts and skin.

Hunters should also keep their dogs away if they suspect a harmful algal bloom or algae mats, as the toxins have proven to be fatal in pets. Dogs can be exposed to toxins by:

• Skin contact with water or mats that are contaminated with cyanobacteria or toxins

Swallowing water

• Licking the water off their fur or hair

• Eating algae mats along the edge of a waterbody

Hunters can visit the DWQ website to learn more helpful tips for protecting their hunting dogs. The DWR will be posting educational signs in some of its waterfowl management areas to help provide waterfowl hunters with information on identifying harmful algal blooms and algae mats. If you suspect your pet has been exposed to harmful algae, seek immediate care from your veterinarian. Even with proper veterinary care, exposures may be fatal. Prevention is the best way to protect your pet. Suspected harmful algae can be reported to DWQ by calling 801-5364123. Find more information about harmful algae at HABs.utah.gov.

—Utah Division of Wildlife Resources

Courtesy Katie Ely

Courtesy Utah Division of Wildlife Resources

Algae Blooms Cont'd from A1

Medical Grants for Kids with Disabilities Available for Utah Families

by Mark Richardson | Utah News Connection

UTAH - Parents of children with disabilities in Utah can apply for grants to help offset the costs of medical services that traditional insurance plans do not cover.

It is part of a plan by the United Healthcare Children's Foundation to bridge the gap between high fees for specialty medical services and a family's ability to pay them. About 100,000 Utah children under the age of 18 have disabilities.

Scott Otto, assistant executive director of the foundation, said the insurance provider makes grants available to parents through its foundation to help cover medical costs that traditional insurance may reject.

"The goal of these grants is to help alleviate the financial burden that a family might be enduring, where their commercial coverage may not cover, or may not fully cover, the cost of the needed care," Otto explained.

In Utah, the foun-

Adobe Stock

Grants of up to $5,000 a year are available to Utah families to defray the health care costs of caring for a child with disabilities.

dation has awarded 211 medical grants for kids and families valued at $345,000. Parents do have to be enrolled in a traditional health care plan to qualify for the grants, but it does not have to be with UnitedHealthcare.

The grants can be used to cover a variety of services, including therapy, prescriptions and medical devices, or even to help offset the cost of major surgeries that may not be covered.

"We certainly can help underwrite some of those costs but we're also able to underwrite even just some of the little more day-today, kind of drip, drip, drip, kind of cost," Otto noted. "The $20 co-pay every time you go to the pharmacy, or every time you go to physical therapy, or that kind of a visit."

The foundation has awarded more than 40,000 grants totaling $80 million since launching the program in 2005.

Survey: If you hike, ride, paddle or simply enjoy time outside, this quick survey is your chance to tell us what’s working, what’s missing and where to invest so we can deliver trails, parks and safe access that serve families, visitors and communities for years to come.

—Jason Curry, director of the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation Survey Cont'd from A1

door recreation the right way, by expanding access while caring for the places that make Central Utah special,” said Jason Curry, director of the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation. “If you hike, ride, paddle or simply enjoy time outside, this quick survey is your chance to tell us what’s working, what’s missing and where to invest so we can deliver trails, parks and safe access that serve families, visitors and communities for years to come.”

The Central Region includes Juab, Sanpete, Millard, Sevier, Piute and Wayne Counties—an area rich with state and national parks, lakes, rivers and hundreds of miles of motorized and non-motor-

ized trails. From red rock canyons to alpine forests, the region offers a diverse range of outdoor experiences, and this planning process aims to ensure that these opportunities continue to grow and improve in ways that meet community needs.

The survey will be available through Oct. 20 in both English and Spanish. Participants will be asked to share about their primary outdoor recreation activities in the region, challenges they’ve experienced and ideas for improvements. Feedback will directly inform the Central Region Recreation Plan, which will set a vision for the region and direct state investment for years to come.

The survey should take less than ten minutes to complete, and the public

Clotilde Barrett: Clotilde Barrett grew up in Belgium. She tells the story of three generations facing the harsh realities of life in Belgium in her book World War II in Belgium: Portrait of a Family. Barrett now calls Torrey home.

Clotilde Barrett

Cont'd from A1

Clotilde Barrett grew up in Belgium. She tells the story of three generations facing the harsh realities of life in Belgium in her book World War II in Belgium: Portrait of a Family. Barrett now calls Torrey home.

She is also a master weaver. The Weaver’s Journal, first published in July 1976, was edited and published by Barrett until 1983. She has written several technical weaving books.

An engaged member of OTG, a monthly shortstory club, Barrett always

has something thought-provoking to say. But did you know . . . ?

"Classic Conversations" are produced and moderated by Don Gomes, vice president of the Entrada Institute. Gomes spent twenty-five years as an award-winning public broadcaster in Utah, Indiana, and Texas and is certain to have captivating questions for Barrett.

To join this presentation, visit www.entradainstitute.org/eventscalendar/. Events are also streamed live on the Entrada Institute's Facebook page, and registration is not required for the livestream. —Entrada Institute

can complete the survey at https://storymaps.arcgis. com/.

To learn more about the Central Region Recreation Plan, visit https:// arcg.is/1r0yTi0. For more information on the Division of Outdoor Recreation, visit recreation.utah.gov.

—Utah Department of Natural Resources | Division of Outdoor Recreation

Legal Notices

PLANNING COMMISSION VACANCY

LOA TOWN

Loa Town Planning Commission is looking to fill one vacancy. If you are interested in joining this great group of people and serving your community, please contact Michelle Brian at 435-836-2160 for more information. You must be a customer on the Loa culinary water system in order to apply for this position.

Published in The Wayne and Garfield County Insider on SEPTEMBER 4, 11, 18 & 25 and OCTOBER 2, 2025

NOTICE OF THE CANCELLATION OF THE TOWN OF TORREY

2025 MUNICIPAL GENERAL ELECTION

Pursuant to the provisions of Utah Code Annotated § 20A-1-206, the town of Torrey, Wayne County, Utah, hereby gives notice that on September 11, 2025, the City Council passed and approved Resolution No. 2025-03, a resolution cancelling the November 4, 2025, Municipal General Election and declaring each unopposed candidate elected to office.

CANDIDATE DECLARED ELECTED TO OFFICE OF MAYOR:

Michael D Wright

CANDIDATES DECLARED ELECTED TO OFFICE OF CITY COUNCIL:

Renee Reel, Shelia Patricia Kearney

Karen S. Mayne, Town Clerk Dated 11th day of September 2025

Legal notice publicized as follows:

Posted on the Statewide Electronic Voter Information Website

Posted on the Towns website

Posted on the Utah Public Notice Website

Posted at the Torrey Town Offices, 75 East 100 North, Torrey, Utah

Published in The Wayne and Garfield County Insider on SEPTEMBER 18 & 25 and OCTOBER 2, 2025

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 Oct. 22, 2025 either electronically using the Division`s on-line Protest of Application form, by hand delivery to a Division office, or by mail at PO Box 146300, Salt Lake City, UT 84114-6300. Please visit waterrights.utah.gov or call (801)538-7240 for additional information.

GARFIELD COUNTY NONUSE APPLICATION(S)

89-1694 (D177): Cannonville Economic Housing LLC, Landom Holm is/are seeking a nonuse period for 1.53 cfs OR 41.718 ac-ft. from the George Dutton Ditch (Cottonwood Canyon) for IRRIGATION.

WAYNE COUNTY

NEW APPLICATION(S)

95-5580 (A84823): Tracy Potter propose(s) using 0.015 cfs OR 1.48 ac-ft. from groundwater (2 miles NE of Fremont) for DOMESTIC; IRRIGATION; STOCKWATERING.

95-5581 (A84827): Wendy Potter propose(s) using 0.015 cfs OR 1.48 ac-ft. from groundwater (2 miles E of Fremont) for DOMESTIC; IRRIGATION; STOCKWATERING.

95-5582 (A84830): Susan Anderson propose(s) using 0.015 cfs OR 1.256 acft. from groundwater (1 mile northwest of Grover) for DOMESTIC; IRRIGATION; STOCKWATERING.

Teresa Wilhelmsen, P.E.

State Engineer

Published in The Wayne and Garfield County Insider on SEPTEMBER 25 and OCTOBER 2, 2025

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS WAYNE COUNTY DOCUMENT 00 11 13 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: Bicknell Industrial Park – Culinary Waterline.

Bids for the construction of the Project will be received in the Commission Chambers of the Wayne County Courthouse located at 18 South Main, PO Box 189, Loa, Utah 84747, until Friday, October 3, 2025 at 11:00 am local time. At that time, the Bids received will be publicly opened and read.

The Project includes the following Work: Installation of approximately 2,300 L.F. of 8” PVC pipe, fire hydrants, valves, residential water meters, and associated work. Bids will be received for a single contract.

Owner anticipates that the Project’s total bid price will be approximately $200,000. The Project is expected to be completed by December 3, 2025.

Obtaining Bidding Documents:

Information and Bidding Documents for the Project can be found at the following designated websites: www.jonesanddemille.com or www.questcdn.com

Bidding Documents may be downloaded from the designated websites for a fee of $30.00. The designated websites 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 websites.

The Issuing Office for the Bidding Documents is: Jones & DeMille Engineering, Inc., 1535 South 100 West, Richfield, Utah 84701.

Prospective Bidders may examine the Bidding Documents at the Issuing Office Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., except holidays or may obtain copies of the Bidding Documents from the Issuing Office as described below. Partial sets of Bidding Documents will not be available from the Issuing Office. 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 websites and the Issuing Office.

Pre-bid Conference:

A pre-bid conference will not be held.

Instructions to Bidders:

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: 9/18/2025

Published in The Wayne and Garfield County Insider on SEPTEMBER 25 and OCTOBER 2, 2025

October 10

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

• Registered Behavior Technician at Bryce Valley High School

• Assistant Debate Coach at Bryce Valley High School

• Esports Coach at Bryce Valley High School

• Substitute/Activity Bus Drivers

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.

MEETINGS

TROPIC AA MEETING Wednesday at 6 PM. Tropic Heritage Center. All meetings are closed discussion.

Escalante AA Meeting Tues. & Fri. at 6pm Call 435-676-3653

The only requirement is the desire to stop drinking.

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

Want to Buy

$$ Paying top Dollar $$ for sports card collections & Pokemon. Premium paid for Vintage. Please leave a detailed message and phone number. Call Corey 541-838-0364.

Garfield County School District is an equal opportunity employer. Garfield County School District reserves the right to accept or reject any or all applications. sudoku

Answers for this week

Wayne Community Health Center

Part-Time Dental Assistant at Escalante Dental

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. If 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.

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

Wayne Community Health Center

Part-Time Dental Assistant at Bicknell Dental

Join our team as a motivated Dental Assistant.

Are you a dedicated and enthusiastic individual seeking a rewarding career in the dental Field?

• Bicknell Dental is currently seeking a Part-Time Dental Assistant to join our dynamic team. Why choose Bicknell 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 Bicknell 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. If 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 Bicknell 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.

Wayne Community Health Center

Patient Relations - PRN - Bicknell, Utah

Job Title: Patient Relations - PRN

Location: Wayne Community Health Center - Bicknell, Utah

Position Type: PRN

About Us

Wayne Community Health Center is committed to providing high-quality, compassionate care to our patients. We are looking for a reliable and friendly Patient Relations team member to support our front office operations on a PRN (as needed) basis.

Position Summary

The Patient Relations Front Desk (PRN) is the first point of contact for patients and visitors. This role is responsible for greeting patients, scheduling appointments, handling phone calls, and providing excellent customer service to ensure a positive patient experience. Responsibilities

• Greet patients and visitors in a professional and welcoming manner

• Answer and direct incoming phone calls

• Schedule, confirm, and update patient appointments

• Verify and update patient information and insurance details

• Collect co-pays and balances as needed

• Provide accurate information and assist patients with questions or concerns

• Maintain confidentiality of patient information in accordance with HIPAA Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills

• Ability to multitask and work in a fast-paced environment

• Basic computer skills

• Flexible availability to cover shifts as needed Interested candidates may apply by submitting a resume to aellett@ waynechc.org.

The Wayne Community Health Centers are committed to providing high quality health services to our communities’ residents and