The Wayne & Garfield County Insider September 25, 2025

Stage 1 Fire Restrictions Remain in Effect for Western Utah

UTAH - Due to increased moisture across eastern Utah, the statewide Stage 1 Fire Restriction Order #UTCLO2504 for state and private unincorporated lands was rescinded on September 16 at 12:01 a.m. However, western Utah will remain under Stage 1 Fire Restrictions due to recent critical fire weather and the lack of significant precipitation in those areas.

Recent Red Flag warnings and continued dry fuel conditions mean that fire danger is still elevated, with ignition potential remaining moderate to high in lower elevations and across western Utah. Fire officials have determined that proactive measures are still necessary to reduce wildfire risk.

Areas Where Stage 1 Restrictions Remain in Effect:

• Central Area

Jaynie Connor

PANGUITCH - On September 11th, a “Community Preparedness Fair” was held at the Triple C Arena. The free event featured various booths and classes from organiza-

Boulder resident and artist/photographer Scott Aho's “Hands on Rock” sculpture was dedicated on Sept. 13, along with a kickoff to a year of service—an initiative called "Give Boulder A Hand,” sponsored by Boulder Wellness Network and the Boulder Ward.

tions, including Be Ready Utah, the Garfield County Sheriff’s Office, Zion’s Bank, the Red Cross, Garfield County Ambulance, the Panguitch Prevention Coalition, and BYU En-

sign College. Residents of Panguitch who attended had the opportunity to participate in free classes and engage with representatives at booths offering educa-

tional resources and free items that related to preparedness.

Cameron Leach, one

WAYNE CO. - The Wayne County Commission met on Monday, September 15, 2025. Commissioners approved a slate of new policies aimed at improving transparency, audit performance, and day-to-day operations. Wayne County Clerk Felicia Snow led the policy effort using templates from the State Auditor’s Office, with legal review by County Attorney Michael Winn. All policies will require annual training to remain enforceable and can be amended as needed. Approved Policies:

• Ethical Behavior Policy - Sets standards for avoiding conflicts of interest, improper political activity, and nepotism. Personal Use of County Assets Policy - Limits use of county property for personal reasons (for example,

“The front of the town center has never looked so good,” said an attendee to the event. Indeed, the landscaping vision of former Boulder resident and

Hands on Rock Cont'd on B2

BOULDER - The heavy dump of rain and hail held off until moments after the speakers finished when Boulder resident and artist/photographer Scott Aho's “Hands on Rock” sculpture was dedicated on Sept. 13, along with a kickoff to a year of service—an initiative called "Give Boulder A Hand,” sponsored by Boulder Wellness Network and the Boulder Ward.

SALT LAKE CITYSeveral hunting seasons are in full swing, and Utah’s general-season rifle deer hunt—arguably the state’s most popular hunt—starts Oct. 18. Utah Department of Natural Resources conservation officers are hard at work patrolling the state to protect wildlife and to make sure hunters are obeying the laws. While wildlife violations can happen any time of the year, there is typically an uptick during the fall hunting seasons. There

UTAH - The Utah Microloan Fund (UMLF) is excited to announce that applications are now open for their Spring 2026 Banking on Women pro-

gram, which focuses on reaching rural communities throughout Utah. In partnership with Westminster University and Synchrony Bank, the Utah

Microloan Fund invites women at all stages of business, whether just

Lynnette Toronto talks food storage during the Community

Courtesy Brent Bowen

Utah Supreme Court Denies Legislature’s Petition to Block Ruling Tossing Out Congressional Map

UTAH - The Utah Supreme Court has denied the Legislature’s petition to block a district court judge’s decision that tossed out the state’s 2021 congressional boundaries and ordered a process to draw a new one.

“For the reasons explained below, we deny Legislative Defendants’ petition,” the Utah Supreme Court wrote in a decision issued Monday, September 15.

“Their arguments focus largely on the district court’s remedial process, but they have not appealed from the order putting that process in place,” the order said, adding that instead legislative attorneys challenged 3rd District Judge Dianna Gibson’s denial of their motion to pause the court’s injunction that voided the 2021 congressional map.

“However, their complaints about the remedial process do not demonstrate that the court’s denial of the stay order is legally wrong or that the court otherwise abused its Discretion,” the Utah Supreme Court opinion says. “Without that, they have not shown why they should receive the extraordinary relief they seek here.”

Mark Gaber, an attorney with the Campaign Legal Center which is representing the plaintiffs in the anti-gerrymandering lawsuit, celebrated the ruling in a post on X Monday evening.

“One step closer to a fair congressional map for 2026!” Gaber wrote.

Better Boundaries’ executive director Elizabeth Rasmussen issued a statement applauding the decision.

“Further delay would be in direct opposition to the principles of the Utah Constitution. We’re thrilled this process will move forward on the previously agreed-upon timeline, putting fair congressional maps in place by November 10th,” Rasmussen said. “Utahns will now see the standards they voted for put into practice. That means fewer splits of cities and counties, compact and connected districts, preservation of neighborhoods and communities, and a ban on

by Katie McKellar | Utah News Dispatch

maps designed to give unfair advantage to politicians or parties.”

While Rasmussen acknowledged legislative defendants’ larger appeal is still pending in court, Monday’s “decision keeps the process moving and affirms the principle that voters, not politicians, choose their representatives.”

Utah’s top Republican legislative leaders, House Speaker Mike Schultz, R-Hooper and Senate President Stuart Adams, R-Layton, said in a joint statement that “a rushed timeline is not the best approach for determining congressional districts nor for setting public policy.”

“Despite this, the Legislature will move forward to the best of its ability,” Schultz and Adams said. “A committee has been formed, the court’s timeline will be followed and Utahns can provide input on the legislative map at redistricting.utah.gov starting Sept. 25.”

Monday’s decision is the latest development in a complex, yearslong lawsuit that has challenged Utah’s redistricting process. Plaintiffs—the League of Women Voters of Utah, Mormon Women for Ethical Government, and several Salt Lake County voters—have alleged that the state’s current congressional boundaries were blatant gerrymandering after lawmakers unconstitutionally repealed and replaced Better Boundaries’ 2018 ballot initiative that sought to create an independent redistricting commission.

Last month, Gibson agreed with the latter claim —that the 2021 Utah Legislature violated the Utah Constitution when it passed SB200, a law that turned that independent redistricting commission into an advisory body that lawmakers could ultimately ignore, which is what they did when the GOP-controlled Legislature enacted the 2021 congressional map.

Gibson ruled that the 2021 map was the result of an unconstitutional process, and ordered it to be “remedied” in time for the 2026 election.

While the Legislature’s attorneys have continued fighting the ruling in court, Utah’s top Republi-

can legislative leaders have begrudgingly said they will comply with Gibson’s ruling and will convene the Legislature to vote on a new map.

Meanwhile, both parties in the redistricting lawsuit have agreed on a timeline for the court-ordered process to enact a new map before Nov. 10, which the lieutenant governor’s office has said is the final deadline for a new map so county clerks have time to finalize their voting precincts in time for January, when 2026 candidates can begin filing to run.

The timeline is as follows, according to court documents:

• Sept. 25: The Utah Legislature will publish its new proposed map.

Sept. 26 to Oct. 5: Lawmakers will hold a public comment period to take input on the map.

• Oct. 6: The Legislature will take a final vote on the map and submit it to the court for consideration. Plaintiffs will also have the same deadline to submit any proposed maps to the judge.

Oct. 17: The deadline for both parties to file briefs, expert reports, and other materials in support or opposition to map submissions, if necessary.

Oct. 23 to Oct. 24: The court will hold an evidentiary hearing, if necessary.

• Oct. 28: The deadline for parties to file proposed findings of fact and conclusions of law with the court, if necessary.

• Nov. 10: The latest possible date for the court to select a final map, according to the lieutenant governor’s office.

Earlier this month, as legislative defendants’ petition made its way through the Utah Supreme Court, Gibson filed an amendment to her previous, Aug. 25 rul-

ing that officially adopted the timeline while also removing the “order” that required the Legislature to “design and enact” a new congressional map in thirty days.

“That ‘order’ failed to recognize the separation of powers between our courts and our legislature and unintentionally failed to respect the Legislature’s authority to determine how to address the Court’s order enjoining H.B. 2004,” Gibson wrote. “This Court overstepped its authority by ordering the Legislature to enact a new congressional plan.”

However, that doesn’t stop the court-ordered process from playing out to draw a new map, which Gibson ruled was the byproduct of an unconstitutional process. While her ruling allows the Legislature to decide whether to submit a map or not, the court still retains jurisdiction over selecting a new map to be used in the 2026 election—whether it’s submitted by lawmakers or by the lawsuit’s plaintiffs.

Monday’s ruling isn’t the first time the Utah Supreme Court has sided with plaintiffs in the anti-gerrymandering lawsuit.

Last summer, all five justices on the court issued a unanimous opinion sending the case back to district court, ruling that Gibson had erred when she previously dismissed the claim that the Legislature violated the constitution when it repealed and replaced Better Boundaries’ ballot initiative. That ruling also made clear that the Utah Legislature did not have unfettered power to repeal and replace all types of voter initiatives, but rather must show a “compelling government interest” in order to change “government reform” initiatives.

This article was originally published on utahnewsdispatch.com on September 15, 2025.

News from Wayne County

Crime Does Not Pay

by Adus F. Dorsey

Courtesy Adus F. Dorsey II

or 18.

WAYNE CO. - The Wayne County Sheriff's Office is seeking information regarding a rash of crime incidents taking place in the Torrey area.

“Hello all, we have been having some issues involving some thefts happening in Torrey. Late in the evening of 09/17/2025 or in the early morning of 09/18/2025, a couple, while visiting our county, had all four of their tires stolen off their vehicle. This leaves the individuals stranded in Torrey for the time being. The theft occurred at 150 N. Center Street in Torrey...Wayne County Sheriff's Office is asking for the help of the public in order to end these thefts. If you have any information about this incident, please call either our office at 435-836-1308, our non-emergency dispatch line at 800-356-8757 or come down to the office at the courthouse in Loa. Please call these numbers [to] report ANY suspicious activity you witness," said Wayne County Sheriff's Office in a post on Facebook.

Although crime in rural areas like Wayne County tend to be somewhat isolated and infre-

quent, the dark side does rear its ugly head on more occasions than one might want to acknowledge, and if you are so inclined and or interested, you can visit the Utah Courts Calendar at https://legacy.utcourts.gov/ cal/ to see who has been arrested in your area.

In general, life in Wayne County tends to take place at a slower pace than, let’s say, Los Angeles or Las Vegas. But for the lawabiding citizens, and criminals alike, it might be wise to take off the blinders every now and then. Technology in these latter days has a way to capture all kinds of activity that was once considered to be private.

Take a lesson from the working man/woman, give up the less exciting life of crime and drugs, get a boring job where you actually do something productive and become a pillar of society, or at the least, become someone who is able to go to the bank to cash your paycheck without the alarms going off.

Crime does not pay, unless, that is, if you are Brad Pitt or George Clooney, and you have a crack team of computer experts, construction workers with jack hammers and hole

saws, and can leap tall buildings with a single bound.

Get real; if you are a known criminal and a regular on the Utah Court Calendar in a town the size of Torrey, you are always going to be the usual suspect.

That is not to say that out-of-town criminals cannot see an easy mark when they drive through a small town.

Theft is a crime of opportunity that can be reduced through awareness and prevention. Whether you’re at home, in a car, or walking, taking a few precautions will lower your risk of becoming a victim.

Lock your doors and windows, even when you’re at home.

Don’t leave anything valuable in your car. Take everything with you, even if you’re just leaving your car for a few minutes.

Lighting and security cameras are cheap, use them.

Most important of all, use common sense. Criminals do not usually possess this trait, but, nevertheless, you should.

Get to know your sheriff's office, there is a good chance you see them every day.

Select Health Awards $50,000 to 10 Utah Organizations Improving Community Health

UTAH - Ten Utah organizations addressing critical health needs—including hunger, housing, mental health, and access to medical care—have been selected to receive funding through the annual Select Health Awards program. Each organization will receive $5,000, totaling $50,000 in support for initiatives that enhance health and well-being among underserved communities across the state.

The 2025 recipients are addressing some of Utah’s most pressing health needs, including food security, mental health, housing stability, youth development and access to medical care. Among the initiatives receiving support are meal delivery for seniors, community garden expansion, mental health services for LGBTQIA+ youth and free vision care for children.

“We continue to be inspired by the work these organizations are doing to strengthen our communities,” said Sean Dunroe, market president for Select Health in Utah and Idaho. “These awards are about more than recognition— they’re about supporting meaningful efforts that make a lasting community impact.”

Since launching in 2008, the Select Health Awards program has contributed more than $1 million to organizations

across Utah, Idaho and Nevada. This ongoing support reflects a shared mission of Select Health and Intermountain Health: to advance community wellbeing by promoting preventive care, supporting wellness, and helping people live the healthier lives possible. For more information, visit selecthealthawards.org.

2025 Select Health Award Recipients - Utah

Backpack Club (Richfield): Provides weekend and holiday food kits to children experiencing food insecurity in Sevier County.

Center of Hope Food Pantry (North Salt Lake): Distributes fresh food and groceries to more than 2,500 individuals each month.

Central Utah Food Sharing (Richfield): Expands access to nutritious food through a community garden serving five rural counties.

Centro de la Familia (Salt Lake City): Delivers oral health care and dental treatment to underserved children in rural Head Start programs.

Community Rebuilds (Moab): Builds affordable, energy-efficient homes for low-income families and trains interns in sustainable construction.

EyeCare4Kids (Midvale): Provides vision screenings, exams and eyeglasses to children in underserved communities across Utah.

Flourish Therapy Inc. (Orem): Offers traumainformed, mental health services and counseling to support LGBTQIA+ youth and families.

People Helping People (Salt Lake City): Coaches and mentors low-income women, especially single mothers, to achieve financial independence.

Project Reality (Salt Lake City and Murray): Delivers integrated mental health and substance use recovery services to underserved individuals.

Wayne County Senior Citizens (Loa and Bicknell): Provides meals, transportation and wellness services to seniors in rural communities.

About Select Health Select Health® is a nonprofit health plan dedicated to high-quality, affordable access to healthcare for its more than 1.1 million members across the Mountain West. Through a shared mission with Intermountain Health of Helping People Live the Healthiest Lives Possible®, Select Health is committed to making this possible through simple, sincere, and seamless experiences and products. Centered around member needs, Select Health offers commercial and government medical plans, as well as dental, wellness products, and pharmacy benefit management. For more information, visit selecthealth.org. —Select Health

The Wayne County Sheriff's Office is seeking information regarding a rash of crime incidents taking place in the Torrey area, including a couple visiting the county having all four of their tires stolen off of their vehicle on Sept. 17

Wills, Trusts, and More

Storing Your Estate Planning Documents

You should know what you own, how you own it, and what you plan to give to whom. Keep your notes in a safe place. You'll need them as you and your attorney decide which estate planning tools—wills, trusts or others—you want to use to pass on your assets. This is the perfect time to decide on a safe place to store all your estate-planning documents. Gathering necessary paperwork in one location will save your loved ones an irritating game of "find the forms" after your death. You may choose a bank safe-deposit box, an office filing cabinet or a fireproof lock box you keep in your bedroom closet. What matters is that your heirs know where they can find the appropriate estate information —important documents, including your will, birth certificate, marriage certificate, stock certificates, etc.

Lock box

The lock box is just right if you want your documents immediately at hand and under your careful watch. This is an understandable perspective.

by Jeffery J. McKenna

Be aware, though, that this box, which is in your house, stands the same chance of disappearing in the event of a burglary as, say, your computer or jewelry. Your important, possibly irreplaceable, original documents would be gone.

Safe-deposit box

The safe-deposit box has the appeal of being safer from fire and burglary, but it is not so easily accessed as the lock box in the closet. It only takes a quick trip to the bank to deposit or remove items from the box, but there's more to it than that. In the event of a person's death, the law requires a very specific way of handling the entry into a safe-deposit box by family members or anyone else who seeks access to the items inside. If the box was rented in the names of a husband and wife, the surviving spouse is generally granted unrestricted access to the box. Or if the next of kin needs to search the box for a will or burial instructions, the bank allows access upon presentation of a death certificate.

Otherwise, the bank is obliged to bar access.

One important reminder

A living will is an expression of your desire not to receive extraordinary medical treatment if your medical condition appears hopeless. It is your decision to make one or not. However, do not keep your living will in a safe deposit box. Make several copies of the original to give family members, and keep the original in a safe but an easily accessible place. Tell others where you put the original in case it is needed. A living will is not a document that disposes of your property and should remain easily accessible.

In conclusion, there is no “best” place to store your estate planning documents. However, no matter where the documents are stored, the most important issue is to make sure that those that will need the documents know where the documents are and can get access to them in case of an emergency.

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.

Report: Utah Among Top States Prepared to Utilize AI Technology

by Mark Richardson | Utah News Connection

UTAH - Experts agree artificial intelligence is expanding across the country at almost light speed, and a study found Utah is uniquely situated to take advantage of the new technology.

A report by the website Brainly ranked Utah third among the fifty states in preparedness for the AI adoption. It cited Utah's high number of businesses already using AI and the state's widespread access to high speed internet.

Manish Parashar, chief AI officer at the University of Utah, said the future is being built on AI.

"It is transforming everything: science, education, business, medicine, society in general," Parashar outlined. "It's impacting every life. It can

barely touch any technology that doesn't have AI in some form embedded into it."

The Brainly study examined each state's adoption of AI by businesses, universities and government, and if states are developing infrastructure that will allow AI to expand and thrive. It showed the number of jobs requiring AI expertise is increasing exponentially, predicting almost 20% of jobs will involve AI by 2033.

Utah ranked behind the District of Columbia and New Hampshire but was ahead of high-tech states like California, Massachusetts and Colorado. Parashar noted Utah's regulatory environment is particularly conducive to developing the technology.

"I think Utah is pretty unique across the country," Parashar observed. "It has this idea of regulatory sandboxes, where you can build the right regulation that's fit for use for the tool that I'm building."

State officials said Utah is on a deliberate path to develop a framework in which universities and businesses can take advantage of the benefits of AI, which involves putting common sense safeguards in place.

Gov. Spencer Cox said leaders are trying to stay ahead of AI's development.

"What we’re focused on is the very practical impact of AI, and how it is being used in commercial applications that impact the residents of Utah," Cox emphasized. "This is just normal consumer protection."

country roads

The Perfect Man

A man walked out to the street and caught a taxi just going by.

He got into the taxi, and the cabbie said, "Perfect timing. You're just like Brian!"

"Who," said the passenger.

"Brian Sullivan," said the cabbie. "He's a guy who did everything right all the time. Like my coming along when you needed a cab. Things happened like that for Brian Sullivan every single time."

"There are always a few clouds over everyone," said the passenger.

"Not Brian Sullivan," said the cabbie. "He was a terrific athlete. He could have won the Grand Slam at tennis. He could golf with the pros. He sang like an opera baritone and danced like a Broadway star, and you should have heard him play the piano. He was an amazing guy."

"Sounds like he was something special," said the passenger.

"There's more," said the cabbie. "He had a memory like a computer. He remembered everybody's birthday. He knew all about wine, which foods to order and which fork to eat them with. He could fix anything. Not like me. I change a fuse, and the whole street blacks out. Brian Sullivan, he could do everything right."

"Wow, some guy, then," said the passenger.

"He always knew the quickest way to go in traffic and avoid traffic jams," said the cabbie. "Not like me. I always seem to get stuck in them. But Brian, he never made a mistake, and he really knew how to treat a woman and make her feel good. He would never answer her back event if she was in the wrong, and his clothing was always immaculate, shoes highly polished too. He was the perfect man! He never made a mistake. No one could ever measure up to Brian Sullivan."

"An amazing fellow. How did you meet him," asked the passenger.

"Well, I never actually met him," said the cabbie. "He died, and I'm married to his widow."

PUNishment

I would tell my autumn joke, but you probably wouldn't fall for it.

THEME: Periodic Table Elements

ACROSS

1. "____ of New York," 2002 movie

6. That guy

9. Extinguish birthday candles

13. Impolite dinner sound

14. Division of time 15. Forgo

16. On the move

17. Lake, in France

18. Alaska native

19. *The heaviest metal

21. *Inert gas of balloon fame

23. "Jersey Shore" network, acr.

24. Move like parasailor

25. Pick up, as in a criminal

28. Z, NATO phonetic alphabet

30. "A ship without ____," or one without purpose 35. Paella pot

37. Nessie's turf

39. Sweating room

40. Cyberspace soliloquy

41. *Gold

43. Foul substance

44. Ruled 46. Dish out

47. Belgium's currency

48. Lands (2 words)

50. Indira Gandhi's dress

52. ____ Without Hats, band

53. Sheltered nook

55. Gross National Product

57. *Majority of elements on periodic table

60. *Iron

Fortune teller's card

Anger

Saharan rest stop, e.g.

Venerated paintings

Acquired

Beside, archaic

Curious

Professional basketball league, acr.

Paterfamilias, tenderly

Bruce Willis & Marie Nelson Turner

Bruce Willis and Marie Nelson Turner, of Richfield, have been called to labor in the North Carolina Raleigh LDS Mission, working as Military Relations Missionaries at Ft. Bragg Military Installation in Fayetteville, North Carolina. They will enter the MTC in Provo on October 13, 2025.

Elder and Sister Turner will speak in Sacrament Meeting on Sunday, September 28, 2025, at 9:00 A.M. in the Richfield 7th Ward, 190 North 400 West in Richfield.

Anniversary

70thAnniversaryWedding

Charles Wayne and Janee Camp Blackburn arrived at a milestone few married couples achieve. On September 1st, 2025, they reached their 70th wedding anniversary. Living their entire married life in Wayne County, they raised 7 children (Brent, Randy, Joni, Mitch, Janalee, Kerry and Bryce). They have 22 grandchildren, 44 great-grandchildren, with a total posterity of 117. Congratulations, Dad and Mom! We love you!

This week, summer will be gone. It is always the shortest of the seasons. Now, it is the season for being a couch potato. Next week, starting on October 3, the second season will start for baseball. Many of the leagues are still finding out who will play in the post season. Baseball had a number of big swingers, with over fifty homeruns. Aaron Judge, who plays for the Yankees; Shohei Ohtani on the Dodgers; and Cal Raleigh, a catcher that plays for Seattle, may have contributed over sixty of these dingers. Raleigh has broken all of records as a catcher and could hit over sixty-two for an American League record.

College football is in its fourth week, and, already, Utah, which is my favorite team, lost a game against Texas Tech. So, I will have to go with my other school, which is USC. I grew up on the USC campus. When I was eleven, I washed cars on Saturday in my dad's gas station. I like it because they let me put the cars on the wash rack. I was sixteen before I got out of low gear. With the pros, mostly I root for the Rams; they led Philadelphia by

FYI PanguItch

by Mack Oetting ~ mackoetting @gmail.com

a score of 26 to 7. They didn’t score in the second half and missed two short field goals at the end of the game and lost, 27-28. Oh, well; I can always root against the Dallas Cowboys.

On Thursday morning, the employees that worked at all of the On the Run gas stations were shut out. The only gas in town is at the Chevron. I understand that no one has been told when the stations will be back open. A couple months ago, I had heard that someone had bought the four stations, but I have heard nothing since.

Our president has put another nail in the coffin of southern Utah’s tourism business. He signed a bill that required $100,000 to get a visa to come into our country. Not many tourists are coming anyway, however, if you want to live here, you could do it for just $1 million.

I am getting up in the years, but a lot of things have happened since I came along. FDR started Social Security. When I was growing up, my grandmother lived with us because that is what had to happen before Social Security became available. At the same time, the life

Fire Restrictions:

expectancy was only fiftyeight, so you weren’t stuck with having to support your parents for long.

Since then, science has put a stop to many diseases. Tuberculosis (TB) had been known as "The King’s Evil" and the "robber of youth." The microorganism causing TB was discovered in 1882.

Influenza (flu) has been a common cause of pandemics in history, and the Spanish Flu in 1918 killed forty million globally.

Malaria occurs in bites from female mosquitoes. It is no longer a problem in the U.S., but in the world population in subtropical regions, the death toll from malaria is as high as 600,000. Polio has existed for millennia. It was first clinically described in 1789 in England. The last case of polio in the U.S. was in 1979, but it has been considered eradicated worldwide thanks to the polio vaccine.

Yellow fever entered the Americas through the slave trade of the 1600s and was found to be linked to a virus (in 1901). The last U.S. break out was in 1905, but it is no longer considered to be a

risk here.

Tetanus has been described throughout history, and was clinically defined in 1880. It caused one million deaths annually before the vaccine was introduced in the 1980s. Now, there are only about thirty cases of it in the U.S. (Much of this information comes out of a health magazine.)

With cancer, the second leading cause of death in the world, the science world is making great strides. Stopping smoking and early detection is also working, but our big beautiful U.S. Congress has cut back on the scientific efforts to do away with another health problem to 38%.

Pat and I got our flu shot at the Panguitch Drug, but they didn’t have any of the COVID vaccine. If you aren’t in a hurry, the great flu shoot out will be at our fire station on October 16. To get it, just roll up your sleeve and drive on in, Most insurance will cover the vaccine. Bring a photo ID. I wish we could have summer year around, but, then again, it might get boring.

Mack O

Even though we’ve seen some improvement in fire danger across the state, conditions remain dry enough in these areas that a single spark could still start a wildfire. We appreciate the public’s continued vigilance in helping protect lives, property, and Utah’s natural resources.

—Jamie Barnes, Utah State Forester

Fire Restrictions

• Southwest Area

• Wasatch Front Area

Bear River Area

• BLM West Desert District

• BLM Color Country District

BLM Paria River District

Areas Where Stage 1

Restrictions Are Rescinded:

• Northeast Area: Daggett, Duchesne, Uintah, Summit, and Wasatch counties. However, the un-

incorporated areas of Park City Fire District in Summit County will remain in Stage 1 Fire Restrictions. Northwest Area: Carbon, Emery, Grand, and San Juan counties

• BLM-managed lands in Eastern Utah: Green River District and Canyon Country District Stage 1 Restrictions

Prohibit: Open fires except in established campgrounds or permanent fire pits at private homes with running water;

Banking on Women:

Smoking except inside a vehicle, building, or developed recreation site;

Cont'd from A1 conditions and determine when criteria are met to rescind restrictions.

• Cutting, welding, or grinding metal in dry vegetation;

• Use of internal combustion engines without an approved spark arrestor; and Fireworks, tracer ammunition, exploding targets, and pyrotechnics.

These restrictions will remain in effect until rescinded by the Utah State Forester or BLM Utah. Area fire managers will continue to meet weekly to evaluate

“Even though we’ve seen some improvement in fire danger across the state, conditions remain dry enough in these areas that a single spark could still start a wildfire,” said Jamie Barnes, Utah State Forester. “We appreciate the public’s continued vigilance in helping protect lives, property, and Utah’s natural resources.”

—Utah Division of Forestry, Fire & State Lands

Banking on Women’s success comes from connecting entrepreneurs who understand each other’s challenges and journeys. The program breaks isolation, cultivates lasting bonds, and creates new businesses and jobs in communities that need them most.

Banking on Women

Cont'd from A1

starting or looking to expand, to apply for this valuable fifteen-week program. Participants may join this program at no personal cost thanks to Synchrony Bank Scholarships.

The Utah Microloan Fund is a nonprofit Community Development Financial Institution dedicated to assisting Utah entrepreneurs who struggle to obtain traditional bank financing. They offer small business loans, along with complimentary and affordable classes on essential topics such as business planning, cash flow management, and marketing strategies. By emphasizing character and strong business ideas instead of relying solely on credit scores or collateral, the fund supports startups and small businesses across the state, particular-

—Alysa Peterson, Synchrony’s VP, CRA Strategy Leader

ly those located in rural or underserved communities.

“At Synchrony, we seek to empower female entrepreneurs because we know they lift up communities and power American commerce," said Alan Urie, Synchrony’s CRA Officer. "We founded Banking on Women in 2010 as an initiative designed to help female entrepreneurs in Utah plan, grow, and launch their small businesses. Banking on Women continues to grow, and its success comes from connecting entrepreneurs who understand each other’s challenges and journeys. Starting with just fourteen women, the program has now supported over three hundred and ten entrepreneurs. We are invested in every one of those women’s growth and business success.”

The Banking on Women program is virtually accessible, making it ideal for women in rural

areas and available to participants throughout Utah. It offers comprehensive, hands-on training in business planning, financial management, leadership, and marketing. Participants will benefit from a supportive community, receiving guidance and support from peers and mentors throughout the program. The program aims to empower women to grow their businesses with the support they need and to thrive within their communities.

Banking on Women’s success comes from connecting entrepreneurs who understand each other’s challenges and journeys. The program breaks isolation, cultivates lasting bonds, and creates new businesses and jobs in communities that need them most,” said Alysa Peterson, Synchrony’s VP, CRA Strategy Leader.

Not only does Banking on Women give en-

trepreneurs the business knowledge that they need, but it also provides women with a way to connect says UMLF Program Manager of Training and Outreach Sara Day. "It’s a space where women can share ideas, support each other, and find mentors while growing their businesses and managing busy lives and families. Many finish the program with not only new skills but also lasting friendships,” she said. Day invites anyone who is interested to attend an information session on Tuesday, September 30, at 9:30 a.m. via Zoom. "Taking that first step doesn’t mean you’re committing right away, it just means you’re giving yourself the chance to explore if this is the right fit for you,” says Day. Learn more and apply today at www. utahmicroloanfund.org/ bankingonwomen.

Kayshen Brown, of Lyman, and Kristopher Parslow, of Monroe, would like to announce their marriage.

They were married on September 20, 2025, in Monroe, Utah. The couple is registered on Amazon, as well as Venmo: Kris-Parslow. Kayshen plans to pursue culinary school, and Kris plans to pursue his contracting license.

Poaching:

Hunters need to take responsibility for knowing the laws, having a current hunting or combination license, and also knowing what species and areas their permits allow them to hunt before they go out into the field. We are requesting the public’s help in gathering information about wildlife violations. Please keep your eyes and ears open and report suspicious wildlife activity to us. With the information you share, we can enforce wildlife laws, which help with wildlife conservation and maintaining healthy populations and also keep our recreating public safe.

Poaching

are currently around fifty natural resources officers patrolling all of Utah, and they can’t be everywhere.

“Hunters need to take responsibility for knowing the laws, having a current hunting or combination license, and also knowing what species and areas their permits allow them to hunt before they go out into the field,” DNR Lt. Casey Mickelsen said. “We are requesting the public’s help in gathering information about wildlife violations. Please keep your eyes and ears open and report suspicious wildlife activity to us. With the information you share, we can enforce wildlife laws, which help with wildlife conservation and maintaining healthy populations and also keep our recreating public safe.”

Get a license plate number

If you see someone who is potentially breaking Utah’s wildlife laws, getting a license plate number is the most critical piece of information you can provide to conservation officers. If you’re not able to get a license plate number, provide the officer with as much information as you can.

“Having a license plate number will lead us to the individual, so we can interview the person and

—Casey Mickelsen, DNR Lt.

start investigating,” Mickelsen said. “Other helpful details include the type and color of the vehicle the person was driving, how many people were involved and a description of what you saw. And, if you can give us a GPS coordinate, that can guide us quickly to the area where the possible violation occurred.”

Report the information to the Division of Law Enforcement using one of their four channels

While reporting a wildlife violation in a Facebook message will eventually get to a conservation officer, it is much more efficient and effective to use the proper channels. Here are the various ways you can report illegal wildlife activities:

Text officers at 847411.

• Call the Utah Turn-in-aPoacher hotline at 800662-3337. (The UTiP hotline is staffed twentyfour hours a day, seven days a week and is the quickest way to report a wildlife violation.)

• Use the UTDWR Law Enforcement app.

• Report online through the DNR website or the DWR website. Note that contact with an officer may be limited with this option.

Another option for reporting wildlife violations is to call the nearest local police dispatch, and they will pass the information along to the closest conservation officer. Lo-

Wayne Commission:

Commissioners approved a slate of new policies aimed at improving transparency, audit performance, and day-to-day operations at the September 15, 2025, Wayne County Commission meeting. A new Policy Steering Committee was also formed to help implement and monitor the new policies.

Wayne Commission

Cont'd from A1

employees should not be using county devices to check social media during work hours or county vehicles for official use only, etc). IT and Computer Security Policy - Prohibits non-work use of the internet (e.g. online games, downloads, social media).

• Cash Receiving and Deposit Policy - Reinforces dual handling of money, a process already in place.

• Fraud and Abuse Reporting Policy - Lays out a formal process for reporting misconduct and includes whistleblower protections.

• Purchasing and Credit Card Policy - Restricts purchases to approved categories like office supplies, travel, and lodging.

The County Data Privacy Policy was tabled pending appointment of a chief administrative officer to oversee compliance.

A new Policy Steering Committee was also formed to help implement and monitor the new policies. The five-member committee includes County Attorney Michael Winn, County Clerk and HR lead Felicia Snow, Rhett Jeffries, Colleen Allen and Teresa Brian. In other items of business: The commission signed off on the thirdquarter budget review with no changes. Vouchers were approved, including payments for landfill equipment and Commissioner Cook’s attendance at the UAC conference. Commissioners also approved a new bailiff contract with the State of Utah, despite concerns about a reduced hourly reimbursement rate—from $28.77 down to $23.02. They noted the agreement is mandatory but expressed frustration with the pay cut.

The Wayne County Commission meets the first and third Monday of every month at the Wayne County Courthouse in Loa.

cal police dispatch numbers can be found online. If you can’t locate those phone numbers, you could also call 911. However, you shouldn’t call the police unless you are absolutely sure you have witnessed a poaching violation, you can’t find the UTiP number, and you feel the incident must be reported immediately.

“If you have a license plate number but you can’t get cell reception, it’s totally fine to wait and report the incident when you get better cell service,” Mickelsen said. “A license plate number gives us a great starting point for our investigation.”

Don’t confront the individual

Don’t confront someone who might be committing a violation; just observe from a distance and take note of as many details as you can.

“We don’t want anyone to be put in harm’s way or to be in a situation that makes them uncomfortable,” Mickelsen said. “Report what you saw, and let us contact them.”

Don’t call UTiP for information

Please remember that the UTiP hotline is not an information line. Only call it to report possible poaching and other wildlife-related crimes.

“Every time our officers receive a UTiP call, even if it isn’t related to a wildlife crime, they have to file a follow-up report,” Mickelsen said. “Filing the report takes time away that could have been spent fighting wildlife crime in Utah. Please call the UTiP line only to report wildlife crimes. If you’re simply looking for hunting or fishing information, call the nearest DWR office.”

—Utah Division of Wildlife Resources

Schools and Sports

From Intern to Advocate: How UT-PIC is Preparing Psychologists to Serve Rural Utah

by Southern Utah University | Utah Center for Rural Health

SALT LAKE CITY -

For recent psychology doctoral intern Lanie Belland, the past year with the Utah Psychology Internship Consortium (UT-PIC) has been more than just training—it’s been a transformative step in her career and life.

“Working with UTPIC this past year has been such a meaningful experience,” Belland reflected. “It’s helped me grow into my clinical and professional identity, and really boosted my confidence as both a clinician and a person. I’ve genuinely looked forward to coming in each day because I’ve felt excited to be part of this program and to connect with my peers and supervisors.”

UT-PIC, coordinated through the Utah Center for Rural Health at Southern Utah University, is an American Psychological Association (APA)-accredited doctoral internship program that prepares high-quality psychologists to serve in rural and underserved communities. Through partnerships with five agencies across Utah, interns like Belland receive a full year of hands-on training, supervision, and didactic learning designed to address the unique mental health needs of communities where access to care is limited.

The need is urgent— according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, more than two mil-

BVHS Athlete of the Week

lion Utahns live in areas without adequate access to mental health providers, even though one in five residents have mental health needs. UT-PIC bridges that gap by placing emerging psychologists directly in the communities that need them most.

For Belland, the program’s supportive network of supervisors and peers has been central to her growth. “I’ve felt so supported throughout, which has made it possible for me to work with a wide range of clients and approaches—something I’ve learned so much about through supervision and didactics,” she said. “I’ve especially valued the opportunity to advocate for underserved clients, as it has reinforced the sense that the work I do truly matters.”

UT-PIC Program Director Dr. Cathie Fox sees stories like Belland’s as the heart of their mission. “Our goal is to prepare psychologists who are not only clinically skilled, but also culturally attuned and committed to serving communities where mental health resources are scarce,” she explained. “The impact extends far beyond the training year— these psychologists carry that dedication throughout their careers.”

The UT-PIC program begins each August and is now accepting applications for the 2026 internship cycle through November 18, 2025. To learn more about the program, faculty, and application process, visit www.ut-pic. org.

BVHS Student of the Week

to

her with her resilience and team spirit.

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS: UPCOMING GAMES...

Bryce Valley High School

Baseball: 9/26: Senior Night Against Wayne

10/3: State (1st Round)

Volleyball: 9/30: Against Milford

10/1: Against Wayne

Cross Country: 10/2: Bryce Valley Meet

10/8: Against Water Canyon

Panguitch High School

Football: 9/26: Against Monument Valley

10/3: Against St. Joseph

10/10: Against Water Canyon

Volleyball: 9/30: Richfield

10/1: Against Water Canyon

Baseball: 9/26: Against Piute

by Mack Oetting

The Cats had another good week in sports. The volleyball team went on the road with only one game last week, and it was down in Valley. The varsity team took all three sets and won the game. On last Tuesday and Wednesday, they played 3A team Pine View in what should have been a good game. Next week, they host Wayne in what should be a glimpse of how the 1A teams will play at state. Tonight, they are playing in the North Sanpete tournament, which runs on the 26-27. Next week, they play their last home game against 3A

Richfield. They still have three more away games and are at Water Canyon on the 1st and play against Piute on the 8th. It has been a really great year for the Lady Cats, who only lost their first game. So far, they have not had any problems against the bigger schools, and have, so far, won four out of five of their games.

The baseball team had little problems with their games last week, winning both game in five innings. They beat Bryce Valley on the 17th and Pinnacle on the 19th. The Cats only have two more games left in the season. They played Valley last Wednesday and play Piute on the 26th. The Cats go into the state finals on the 6th and the finals from the 9-11. They are listed as being in 1st place in the state. Cross country has a meet on the 25th in Milford.

Identifying the Most Affordable Colleges for Real-World Students

U.S. - College rankings headlines are often dominated by the same names: Ivy Leagues, elite research universities and schools that admit only a fraction of applicants. But that leaves out most students, say experts.

“The average GPA across all U.S. high schools is 3.0, according to the College Board. For these everyday students, and for families earning an average income between $50,000$150,000—the journey to higher education should be about finding a college they can both attend and afford with confidence,” says William Staib, co-founder and president of College Raptor, Citizens college planning platform.

That’s why this year, College Raptor is reframing the conversation with its 2026 list of the 25 Most Affordable Great Colleges for “B” Students. Prioritizing possibility over prestige, the list highlights institutions that provide both quality and affordability for the students and families who represent the national average, giving a real, unbiased look at the accessible pathways to higher education often left out of traditional rankings.

To draw up the list, Raptor leveraged insights from hundreds of colleges, millions of machine learning models and other publicly available data to evaluate academics, student success, faculty quality, campus resources and financial health. Every institution on the list is considered a match or safety for

“B” students, with an average acceptance rate of 74%. Graduates of these institutions with B academics and $50,000-150,000 financial profiles would pay

on average less than 9% of their income towards student debt. That’s more than 20% less than other four-year colleges that are most likely to accept “B” students. Plus, each school ranks in the top half of accredited fouryear institutions nationwide, demonstrating that affordability doesn’t mean sacrificing excellence.

To truly assess the value a school provides, parents and college-bound students should not only think about the next four years ahead, but well into the future. They can use the list to calculate their return on investment, as schools are ranked by loan payment as a percentage of typical starting salary, tying affordability directly to earning potential. This metric represents the estimated percentage of a student’s expected starting monthly income that would be required to repay their projected student loans within 10 years. It communicates the proportion of monthly income taken up by loan repayment. This resource can be accessed online by visiting collegeraptor.com. There you can also find lists for the 2026 Overall Best Colleges, Top Division II Schools, Top Division III Schools and Best HBCUs.

“For students with a solid ‘B’ grade average and families in middleincome brackets, expanding the definition of "dream school" to include attainable options that align with family income, grades and additional factors can help more students arrive at college with confidence,” says Staib.

Baseball: 9/26: Against Bryce Valley

Volleyball: 9/26: Against Valley

9/30: Against Piute

10/1: Against Escalante

Football: 10/12: Against Whitehorse

by Jessie Nicholson

Courtesy Rowdy Miller

Jonathan Platt was nominated by Ms. Nicholson as the Bryce Valley High School Student of the Week.

by Lacy Post

Courtesy Rowdy Miller

Volleyball player Ellie LeFevre was nominated by Coach Post as the Bryce Valley High School Athlete of the Week.

Courtesy Southern Utah University Utah Center for Rural Health

Lanie Belland (right) receives her UT-PIC diploma at a graduation ceremony in Park City.

BRYCE - Volleyball player Ellie LeFevre was nominated by Coach Post as the Bryce Valley High School Athlete of the Week. Ellie is the heart of her

team—positive, hardworking, and always willing to grow. She shows up, gives her all, and lifts those around

BRYCE - Jonathan Platt was nominated by Ms. Nicholson as the Bryce Valley High School Student of the Week because of his insightful questions and ability

think like a true historian. Jonathan brings curiosity and critical thinking to class every day—what a powerful way to lead your peers.

Wayne High School

Preparedness Fair:

Not feeling prepared and having a plan in a worst case scenario can be troubling. The goal would be for community members to have confidence and assurance they feel prepared whether in big or small situations.

Cameron Leach, Community Preparedness Fair organizer

The Panguitch Prevention Coalition booth at the Community Preparedness Fair at Triple C Arena in Panguitch on Sept. 11 was focused on gun safety and storage.

tended and had attendees sign up for the countywide emergency notifications service. There was also a booth on teaching radio communication and light and energy storage. Leach stated that emergencies, and preparedness for those emergencies, come in different forms. “Obviously, the first [things] that come to mind are food, water and shelter, which different parties covered. But, we also had a presenter at the fair who is a licensed counselor who discussed taking care of your mental wellbeing in the event of an emergency,” said Leach.

Garfield County Ambulance had a table where they handed out free sling packs, along with a list of recommended items for “Emergency Go Bags.” Director Kara Owens wanted citizens to know what every day and medical materials to have ready to go in the event in of an emergency.

Owens also encourages individuals to have all of their important affairs in order, such as a DNR, power of attorney, and living will, and to keep these documents easily accessible. “Having this information prepared is vital in all types of emergencies to ensure timely and appropriate care,” she said.

Panguitch Zions Bank Branch Manager Marc Henrie was present to distribute complimentary educational materials focused on financial preparedness and its advantages. “We chose to concentrate on two key aspects of financial emergency preparedness. The first is ensuring that important documents are readily available, and the second is establishing an emergency fund to cover three to six months' worth of expenses,” said Henrie. Leach would like to see these fairs continue on a yearly basis and plans to invite more presenters and more people to come join. “Not feeling prepared and having a plan in a worst case scenario can be troubling. The goal would be for community members to have confidence and assurance they feel prepared whether in big or small situations,” said Leach. Preparedness Fair

of the event’s organizers, said the fair started as a church event for the Self Reliance Group for the Panguitch Stake of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. “In one of our meetings, we discussed the possibility of doing a Stake preparedness night,” said Leach. “One of the members of our group wisely suggested that we make it a community preparedness fair, for in the event which an emergency does take place, it will be the community that is affected, not any singular

church or group of individuals…It was a group inspired event; no one person planned or made it work.”

And Leach knew exactly who to reach out to when it came to running the various booths. “We are lucky to live in small communities, and these communities include people

with great knowledge in different topics. Our selfreliance group essentially went out and invited those they knew with talents in specific areas that include emergency preparedness to come share their knowledge.”

The Garfield County Sheriff’s Department at-

“Our goal was to emphasize the importance of being prepared with a go bag that includes a minimum seven-day supply of prescribed medications, along with commonly used overthe-counter medications,” Owens stated. “This preparation ensures individuals are ready to manage their health needs during emergencies or unexpected situations.”

Hands on Rock: Scott's 'Hands on Rock' art sculpture is so appropriate this year, so appropriate right now. As he said, it represents all of us. It represents the people who founded Boulder. And you know what? I'm sure they didn't get along. I'm sure there was a little bit of argument about water or something, but they still came together as a community.

Chris Bigler, Boulder Ward

and the

for the America250 Utah | Boulder “Give Boulder a Hand” year of service, sponsored by the Boulder Ward and Boulder Wellness Network.

councilperson Tom Jerome, recently deceased, was certainly fully realized—native plants in full maturity, artful integration of rocks and vegetation, and, now, a time capsule sculpture in basalt, which is another gift to Boulder residents by Aho. Aho came to southern Utah in 1993, first buying property and starting a business in Escalante. He said he came to Utah because of the rocks. “It was like a giant sculpture garden, only better, because you could climb on them,” Aho said. He moved to Boulder in 2017, becoming active in the Boulder Arts Council, while dividing his time between Boulder and his other beloved home in New Orleans.

While returning to Boulder a few years ago, driving across that amazing flatland of West Texas,

the Llano Estacado, Aho thought back to an art display he’d done in Boulder during Covid time. He had sculpted a single pair of hands on a boulder and was amazed at how people were drawn to touch it, putting their own hands atop the imprints. He started thinking, “Two hands just tickle people to the death. What if we had four? What if we had ten? What if we could have so many, we could do a giant rock, and you wouldn’t just look down on it; you’d walk around it. Wow, man, I live in a town named Boulder...So, that’s how it started,” Aho said.

Together with Cheryl Cox, of the Boulder Arts Council, and Shauna Beard, of the Boulder Ward, they started collecting traced paper handprints from Boulderites. “People have been here for 10,000 years. All throughout that time, our hands have been on the boulders—clearing irrigation canals, clearing fields, rolling rocks to build

the foundation that protects us in the houses. For thousands of years, since the pre-Hopi lived right here, we've been handling, pushing, swearing at rocks. So in a lot of ways, the rocks here are us. And because of their permanence, they're an ideal way for doing what this rock does," Aho said as he explained his distinction between “art” and “craft.”

He said "art" basically has one job: to look pretty or convey a message from the artist. "Craft" has two jobs: it needs to look pretty, but its most important job is its function. “This rock isn’t just pretty. This rock is a document, literally carved in stone, and its job is a statement, from all of us, whether you turned in your handprint or not."

Think of this rock now, Aho said, “It’s like a little baby. It's just starting out in its life, so to speak. And it’s going to be telling people, for thousands of years, about us, about who made it, about how proud

we are, how we work together in this town. And that's an amazing thing.”

Following Aho’s presentation, Chris Bigler, from the Boulder Ward, wrapped up the dedication with a stirring reference to the America 250 commemoration, as well as the “Give Boulder A Hand” kickoff: "'We hold these truths to be self-evident that all

men are created equal’. Note that that started with ‘we.’ The Declaration of Independence was never only about breaking away from something; it was about coming together for something. With that, we inherit both the promise and the challenge of that unity.”

“Nowadays, we are more diverse than ever by race, by faith, by opinions, by background. And yet the task before us is the same as it was in 1776: to find common ground strong enough to carry us forward together. Unity doesn't mean uniformity, it means choosing to see each other first as fellow citizens. It means remembering that independence was never intended to be lived in isolation, but in community.”

“Scott's 'Hands on Rock' art sculpture is so appropriate this year, so appropriate right now. As he said, it represents all of us. It represents the people who founded Boulder. And you know what? I'm sure they didn't get along. I'm sure there was a little bit of argument about water or

something, but they still came together as a community.”

“(You’ll be seeing little cards and boxes around town)—Give Boulder a Hand. And we know that you all do service daily. We know that. But the goal is to collectively complete [and record] 250 hours of service each month serving one another. And our community.”

“What better way to enrich our community than with service? As we celebrate this 250 year milestone, let us honor the courage of the founders by renewing their vision, by choosing unity over division, hope over fear, by choosing the common good over narrow interest. That's how we can keep the spirit of 1776 alive.”

With that, moments later, the heavy drops began, though people could at first shelter under a canopy with ice cream sundaes and the sign-ups for service ideas.

No one complained about the rain.

Jaynie Connor

Courtesy Mark Austin

Over 80 people attended the dedication of Boulder resident and artist Scott Aho's “Hands on Rock” sculpture

kickoff

Hands on Rock

Cont'd from A1

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, 2025

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING WAYNE COUNTY

The Wayne County Commissioners will hold a public hearing on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at 6:00 PM, at the Wayne County Courthouse 18 S. Main, Loa, Commission Chambers, to discuss a proposed increase in landfill fees for residential garbage cans.

The public is invited to attend and provide comments. Written comments may also be submitted prior to the hearing by contacting the Clerk/Auditors Office at 4358361301 or info@wayne.utah.gov.

Date of Notice: Posted to website on 9/5/2025 & newspaper on September 10, 17 & 24, 2025.

By Order of: Board of Commissioners

Felicia Snow

Wayne County Clerk-Auditor

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

Calassified ds

For people with mental health conditions Mon, Wed, Fri 7:00 - 8:30 pm | Wed 12:30 - 2:00 pm Sat 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

For loved ones of people with mental health conditions Mon, Tues,

Calassified ds

HELP WANTED

Southwest Behavioral Health Center

Prevention Specialist Job Posting - Panguitch

GENERAL JOB DESCRIPTION:

Full-time Drug Use and Mental Illness Prevention Specialist (PS). Behavioral Health Prevention Specialists work with individuals, families, institutions, organizations and communities to promote positive lifestyles, reduce and eliminate drug use and other risk factors that lead to anti-social behaviors, and follow evidencebased practices to engage community leaders, organizations and agencies in uniting their prevention efforts. Prevention services are aimed to impact the general public as well as business, religious organizations, health agencies, public safety departments, school districts, and others, regarding such relevant issues as alcohol and other drugs, suicide prevention, parenting skills, and life skills.

DETAILED JOB DESCRIPTION:

Prevention staff perform a variety of professional duties related to coordinating and implementing the Center’s Prevention Services throughout the 5-County area, including:

• Follow evidence-based models and work with community leaders to build, coordinate and coach coalitions/task force groups that will address drug use and mental illness by following the Strategic Prevention Framework to create and implement a prevention action plan.

• Coordinate, develop and implement educational programs in communities and schools directed at alcohol, drug, mental health and other related prevention needs.

Job Description: Drug & Mental Illness Prevention Specialist (Full-Time)

Location: Panguitch (must live in the Panguitch area)

Pay Grade: $17.50 - $20.10 (depending on education and experience), $6,000 - $20,000 per year. Full benefits package, (including medical, dental, and workers compensation). **Benefits amount depends on family versus individual benefits package. ~$6,200 per year Pension (retirement) Plan (based on minimum starting pay)

Total Yearly Pay: $48,600 - $68,008 (including Benefits Package and Pension Plan)

• Serve on community boards and task force groups that target drug use and mental illness;

• Conduct research at the local level on youth behavior issues, drug and mental health trends, and risk/protective factors;

• Provide education through conferences, presentations and town-hall events on prevention science, drug use, mental illness, and other behavioral health issues;

• Coordinate specialty youth programs including peer education, Personal Empowerment Programs, life skills groups, training retreats, youth workshops, youth service organizations, etc.; provides assistance through direct support, consultation and implementation.

• Develops and coordinates public awareness programs, seeking cooperation and assistance from media, preparing and coordinating TV, radio, newspaper and other public awareness activities in the assigned County.

• Works with local, state, and federal leaders to address policies that impact drug use and mental illness;

• Completes all required training, including E-learning assignments and required certifications and licensures within assigned timeframes.

• Provides other direct services for the assigned County for a variety of groups, including schools, government agencies, community groups and others who may request services.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Education and Experience:

A. Graduation from college with a bachelor degree in the social sciences or some other related field or working towards a degree;

AND

B. Two (2) years of progressively responsible experience performing above or related duties; OR C. An equivalent combination of education and experience.

2. Able to pass background check (BCI) to work with youth and other vulnerable populations.

3. Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

A. Must be proficient in use of computer and keyboarding skills.

B. General knowledge of office software, such as Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Google Documents.

C. Must be capable of managing small groups in an educational setting, and presenting in front of large groups.

4. Special Qualifications:

A. Must possess and maintain a valid Utah drivers’ license;

B. Must obtain certification (SAPST) as a Prevention Specialist within six (6) months of hire, (paid for by agency);

C. Must obtain licensure as a Prevention Specialist within three (3) years of hire, (paid for by agency);

D. Must graduate the National Coalition Academy and/or CTC certification, (paid for by agency).

To apply, go to https://sbhc.e3applicants.com/ or email mveater@sbhcutah. org.

Announcement of Position SPED Aide

Wayne High School - Wayne School District is accepting applications for a Paraprofessional to work with our Special Education Department.

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 selfhelp 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 should submit a General Application that can be found on the district webpage www.waynesd.org, or picked up at the District Office.

Applications for any positions may be submitted in person or electronically to Jennifer.batty@waynesd.org

CLOSING DATE: Open until filled, with the first review of applications on September 24.

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

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

• 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.

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

SENIOR CENTER MENUS

Bryce Valley Senior Lunches at the BRYCE VALLEY Senior Center

TUES Sept. 30th Roast Beef, Potatoes & Gravy, California Blend Vegetables, Salad Bar/Mandarin Oranges, Scotch-a-roo

WED Oct. 1st TBA

THURS Oct.

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. Sept. 30th Biscuits & Gravy, Sausage, Scrambled Eggs, Stewed Tomatoes, Oranges, Dessert

Wed. Oct. 1st TBA

Thurs.

Oct. 2nd TBA

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

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.

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

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.

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

and

and/or