CEU names student ambassadors for 2008-09

Almost 200 students applied for the 19 College of Eastern Utah Ambassador positions open for the 2008-09 academic year. After weeks of interviews, Ashton Scarlet of Kaysville; Austin Gray, Clinton; Blake Tucker, Huntington; Bruce Jensen, Elsinore; Cambria Murray, West Point; Carly Smith, Magna; Beth Maddox, Wendover; Farrah Nelson, Price; Jessie Kelley, Roy; Katherine DeBry, Ferron; Kaylen Walton, Vernal; Kelton Wells, Price; Mike Gingell, Myton; Sarah Bailey, Willard; and Whitney Oliver, Spring Glen, all from Utah were selected.  There will also be 4 out of state students joining the team this year.  They are:  Aubrey Dezarn of Las Vegas, Nevada; Heather Woodruff, Colorado Springs, Colorado; Kevin Smurthwaite, Meridian, Idaho; and Rachel Ryan, South Burlington, Vermont.

These students will join the returning ambassadors: Alyson (Jensen) Madsen from Springville; Ashree Atterton, Pleasant Grove; Becky DeLeeuw, Tooele; Indra Gines, Kearns; and Kylee Ragan, Roy.

“College of Eastern Utah Ambassadors is a leadership group responsible for public relations work between the college and outside community.  They are liaisons between CEU and prospective students and their families” said director Terry Johnson, Associate Director of High School & Prospective Student Relations. 

The process to get into the ambassador program is highly competitive.  The procedure a high school student goes through to become an ambassador is to first submit a scholarship application indicating that they would like to be considered for the ambassador program.  The students are then invited to come and give a presentation before the office of admissions and scholarships staff and current ambassadors.   After their presentation, there is an extensive interview process much like a job interview.  “It was very competitive this year with numerous awesome candidates,” said Johnson.

“It’s a difficult process to choose those individuals who we feel will give the team the strength we need for the coming year.  Ambassadors are primarily responsible for recruitment efforts.  Each ambassador gives around 7 – 10 hours minimum of service each week towards recruitment.  Duties include bulk mailing, campus tours, phone calling, and visiting all the high schools in Utah several times throughout the year.

“To maintain their ambassador status, Ambassadors are held to the “Five A’s” of Being an Eastern Utah Ambassador”.  These are: ambassador, academics, attitude, accountability and activity,” he said.  “We expect each one to be an ambassador at all times no matter where they are.  We hold them to a high academic standard.  We expect them to maintain a positive attitude.  We hold them accountable for the performance of their duties.  We encourage them to be actively involved in the school and community.”

Green River students prepare for Girls State

Three Green River High School Juniors will attend the Utah Girls State 61st session at Cedar City on June 2-7. American Legion Auxiliary 103 has sponsored all of these candidates who are very active in athletics, academics and dramatics. Each one has their own reasons for choosing to go to Girls state.

Bailie Packer – “Girls State would force me to step outside my comfort zone, meet new people and grow from shared experiences.”

Crosby Hatt – “I love to learn about government. The way it works is very interesting to me.”

Lindsey Sapadafora – “Girls State will give me more appreciation for the leaders of our country and help me be a better leader in the future.”

Staff Sergeant Charles
(Chuckeddie/Charley) E. Owens

Marine Drum Major, Father, Husband, Brother, Son, and Friend

FERRON - SSgt Charles E. Owens, 37, was taken from us in a tragic motorcycle accident May 1, 2008 in Joshua Tree, Calif..  Charley was born Oct 10, 1970 in Price, Utah to David and Sharon Owens of Ferron, Utah.  His childhood was spent in Ferron on the Owens ranch.  He loved ranch work and what it meant to be a cowboy.  His late grandfather, Robert (Bob) Owens, was one of the biggest influences for Charley when it came to being a cowboy; listening to old stories, singing songs, feeding/milking cows, and breaking horses.  As he entered High School, his love for music emerged with the marching band and the opportunity to begin his journey as a drum major.
He graduated as Bandsman of the Year from Emery High School, Castle Dale, Utah in 1988, he attended Utah Valley State College for a year before “discovering” the Marine Corps.   “Once I saw that Marching Band cross the parade deck, I knew THAT’S what I want to do!” said Owens.
Staff Sergeant Charles (Chuckeddie) E. Owens enlisted in the Marine Corps in April 1990.  In July 1991, he graduated the Basic Course at the Armed Forces School of Music in Norfolk, VA and reported for duty as a French horn instrumentalist with the Second Marine Division Band, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.  In May 1994, he was transferred to Parris Island, SC, for duty with the Parris Island Marine Corps Band.  In December of 1998, he was transferred to the Armed Forces School of Music to attend the Ceremonial Conductor/Drum Major Course and graduated the course in June 1999 as the recipient of the Golden Mace award (an award given to the highest scoring Drum Major student), and was asked to remain at the School as an instructor.  Staff Sergeant Owens transferred to Marine Corps Band, 29 Palms, Calif. in August 2001 for duty as the Acting Drum Major and in October 2003, reported to the Quantico Marine Band, Quantico, Va.  His final transfer brought him back to 29 Palms, Calif., March 2008.
Charley is remembered by loving family and friends all over the country.  Known to all as a man of honor, patriotism, and a love of being a Marine Cowboy.  Charley had but two sides of his life:  the true essence of being a Cowboy and the honor, courage and commitment of being one of the finest Marines in the Marine Corps.
He is survived by his wife Charla of Billings, Mont., his daughter McKenzie of Brigham City, Utah, son Jordan Smith of East Point, Fla., mother and father David and Sharon Owens of Ferron, brothers David (Stacy) of Kanab, Utah, Steve of Payson, Utah, Will (Kristy) of Magna, Utah and Dan of Salt Lake City; sisters Nancy (Todd) of Terre Haute, Ind., and Kathryn (Eric) Howes of Ferron, two Grandparents, seven Aunts and Uncles, 23 Nieces and Nephews and four Grand Nieces.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents Robert (Bob) and Esther Owens.
Services are pending.Internment will be in the Ferron Cemetery.  More details may be found at www.chuckeddie.org.
In lieu of flowers, Charley would have appreciated your donations go to www.jdrf.org or www.fallenheroesfund.org

Bertha Eda Sherman Collard Branch

ELMO – Bertha Eda Branch, age 90, died April 29, 2008 in Elmo, Utah.  She was born October 28, 1917 to Lyman Royal Sherman and Martha Ellen Jones in Huntington, Utah.  She married Charles R. Collard on October 16, 1933 at her father’s home in Huntington; their marriage was later solemnized in the Manti LDS Temple.  After Charles death, she married Hollis Branch on October 15, 1977 in the Manti LDS Temple.
Bertha was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and worked in the Primary program for over 50 years.  She was a member of the Daughters of the Utah Pioneers and a member of the Senior Citizens band.  She loved to dance and she lined danced up until her illness stopped her.  Family was always first!  She enjoyed camping, fishing, hunting and attending family parties and outings.
She is survived by her children: Reynold Charles (Reah) Collard, Merrillyn Lermusiaux, all of Salt Lake City; She also raised three of Reynolds children: Roland (deceased) Diane Collard of Salt Lake., Debbie (Joe) Oveson, Claudia (Pete) Jensen, of Elmo; eight grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; 25 great-great grandchildren; sister: Belva Mindrey; and stepsons: Roger, Bob, Kendall, and Denny Branch and their families.
She is preceded in death by her parents; her husbands; grandson: Roland Collard; son-in-law: Sonny Lermuisaux; and 11 brothers and sisters.
Funeral Services were May 3, 2008 at 2 p.m. at the Elmo Ward Chapel (170 E Main Street - Elmo, UT).  Viewing was May 2, 2008 at Fausett Mortuary (680 East 100 South – Price, UT) and one hour prior to the service at the church.  Interment was in the Huntington City Cemetery.  Services were in the care of Fausett Mortuary.

Beth Prescott Moosman

WELLINGTON-Our loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and sister, Beth Prescott Moosman, age 89, returned home to her Heavenly Father on May 1, 2008 at her home in Wellington.
She was the sixth of nine children born to Ernest J. and Elizabeth Page Prescott in Francis, Utah on July 21, 1918. Beth grew up in Hayden, Utah and attended schools in the area.
On September 5, 1936 she married Boydie Lavon Moosman in Vernal, Utah and they were married for 67 years before his passing on June 24, 2003. She went on to receive her endowments and was sealed to her husband on January 29, 2005 in the Vernal LDS Temple.
Beth was a counselor in the Relief Society, Visiting Teacher, Primary Teacher, and Cub Scout and 4-H leader. She spent many years sewing, crocheting, and making quilts for her family. She was a devoted mother and grandmother, who cherished her family and was happiest when she was with or around them. She took great pride in caring for her garden, flowers and beautiful yard.
She was blessed to be able to go on a trip to Nauvoo with two of her daughters and her grandson. It was a trip she was never to forget. She was the glue that held her family together, and we will miss her dearly. Our joy of having her in our lives will always be cherished and remembered.
Beth is survived by five sons and three daughters, Rex (Roseanne) Moosman, Cleveland, Judy Messinger, Kearns, Ralph (Karen) Moosman, Elmo, Ken (Joni) Moosman, Clawson, Shirley (Terry) Stansfield, Wellington, Merlin (Carol) Moosman, Carbonville, Max (Kim) Moosman, Dawn (Gary) Stansfield, both of Miller Creek; brothers, Vance (Neva) Prescott, Emmett, ID, Ralph (Verrena) Prescott, Neola; sister, Audrey Pectol Divine, Blue Lake, CA; 37 grandchildren, 67 great-grandchildren, and 17 great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Boyd; son-in-law, Paul Messinger; grandchildren, Chris and Shane Stansfield, Johnny, Travis and Ty Moosman, Kena Stansfield Adair, David Fletcher and Kelly Villa; sisters, Zelda Elmer, Fannie Williams, Muril Moosman; and a brother, Jay Prescott
Funeral service, Tuesday, May 6, 2008, 11 a.m., Wellington LDS Stake Center. Family will be at Mitchell Funeral Home Monday evening from 6:-8 p.m. and at the church Tuesday one hour prior to service. Interment will be in Price City Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to Mitchell Funeral Home.

LaVon Jewkes Reid Timothy

ORANGEVILLE—LaVon Jewkes Reid Timothy, age 87, passed away April 30, 2008.  LaVon was born on December 3, 1920, to Alma Edgar and Mary Alzada Anderson Jewkes in Orangeville, Utah.  LaVon married Tommy Reid on October 31, 1940, in Orangeville.  Their marriage was later solemnized October 19, 1988 in the Manti LDS Temple.  Tommy later passed away.  She then married Arthur Timothy on February 14, 1989 in Huntington, Utah. 
LaVon worked as a secretary for P.C. Jones & Sons, Morrison Knutsun Co., and she kept the books for Emery County Nursing Home in Ferron, Utah.  She later retired from Utah State Employees for the service she rendered in the Nursing Home.
LaVon was an active member of the LDS church her whole life, serving in numerous positions, and she was a member of the American Legion serving in many offices there as well.  She was a Click Club member for many years until her death.
LaVon is survived by her children: Tommy M. (Sally) Reid of Orangville, Leonard E. (Pauline) Reid of Wellington, Sharon Ann Reid Cox of Delta, and Gary H. Reid of Wisconsin; 15 Grandchildren, 20 Great-Grandchildren, one Great-Great-Grandchild, and one Great-Great-Great-Grandchild.
She was preceded in death by her two husbands: Tommy Reid, and Arthur Timothy; a son, Jeffrey Reid; four brothers: Clifford Jewkes, Carlton Jewkes, Leonard Jewkes, and Eldon Jewkes; and two sisters: LaRue Charlesworth and Gene Christesen.
Funeral services was May 5, 2008 at the Orangeville LDS 1st Ward Chapel.  A viewing will be held one hour prior to the services at the church.  Interment will be in the Orangeville City Cemetery.  Services are in the care of Fausett Mortuary.

Grant Maxfield

GREEN RIVER/HANKSVILLE - Barry Grant Maxfield, 59, passed away April 28, 2008, in Price, Utah.  He was born June 9, 1948 in Grand Junction, Colorado, to Raymond Baker and Leda Mecham Maxfield.  He married Linda Lilly in Green River, Utah on February 22, 1975; they were later divorced.
Grant was raised in Green River, Utah, and attended school from the first grade through 12th grade in Green River.  He joined the Navy in 1966 and served aboard the destroyer USS Dehaven.  When he got out of the Navy, he settled in Green River; he later moved to Price, Utah.  In Price, he was a member of VFW Miners Post # 2379.  He had an excellent reputation as a professional truck driver and as a miner.  He had a tremendous voice and excelled as a guitar player, providing joy to many who listened as he shared this talent.  His idol was Elvis Presley, and one of the highlights of his life was his visit to Graceland, where he recorded “How Great Thou Art.”
He is survived by his daughters: Stacy (Juan) Lovato of Green River,Utah, Crystal Maxfield of Albuquerque, N.M.; son: Kevin (Kitty) Marshall of Green River, Utah; grandchildren: Presley and Talynn Lovato, Nadia Russell, and Holden, Spencer, and Preston Marshall; brother: Leon (Diane) Maxfield of Grand Junction, Colo.; sister: Marilynn (Joe) Mazak of North Edwards, Calif.; and many loving nieces and nephews. 
He is preceded in death by his parents; brothers: Rodger Dean Maxfield, and Dennis Raymond Maxfield; and special friends: Bonnie Lee Adams, and Rita Yates Hayward.
Funeral Services was May 3, 2008 at 2 p.m. at the Hanksville LDS Chapel  (59 S. Center St. - Hanksville, Utah).    Interment will be in the Hanksville Cemetery.  Services are in the care of Fausett Mortuary

Brian J. “Beanner” Frederick

FERRON—Brian J. Frederick, age 34, passed away April 27, 2008.  Brian was born November 15, 1973 in Bountiful, Utah, to Gerry M. and Mary Anne Davies Frederick. 
Brian was a truck driver for Barney Trucking, and he was a member of the Ferron City Fire Department.  He enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, helping others, and spending time with his family.
Brian is survived by his fiancé, Danielle Cornish of Ferron;  his parents; children: Jasmine K. Frederick, Nickolas G. Frederick, Ashton D. Frederick, Corbyn J. Frederick, Kemmer L. Cornish whom Brian loved and treated like his own son, all of Ferron; a special friend, Tanner Maxfield; grandparents: John L. Davies of Mapelton, and Kathryn B. Frederick of Salem; and three siblings: KayLyn (Jeremy) Gallegos of Brigham City, David (Jade) Frederick of Huntington, and Jason (Kollette) Frederick of Mountain Home, Idaho.
He was preceded in death by a grandmother, Lila Marjean Davies, and a grandfather, Myron R. Frederick.
Funeral services was May 2, 2008 at the Dutch Flat LDS Ward (555 South 400 West, Ferron).  A viewing was held Thursday May 1, 2008 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Fausett Mortuary in Castle Dale (720 N. Center Street), and at the church prior to the services.  Interment was in the Ferron City Cemetery.  Services were in the care of Fausett Mortuary.

Florence Tucker Wayman Poulos

AURORA—Florence Tucker Wayman Poulos, age 83, passed away May 1, 2008 in Aurora, Utah.  Florence was born February 23, 1925 in Mohrland, Utah, to Merrill and Luella Black Tucker as the oldest of eight children.  She grew up in Cleveland, Utah.  Florence married Reed Wayman on August 4, 1942.  Together they had 4 children.  Reed passed away in 1957.  Florence then married George Poulos on July 14, 1961.  They adopted a son, Tracy.  George later passed away in 1980, and in November 1981, Florence moved to Aurora where she spent the remainder of her days.
Florence was a member of the LDS Church.  Her hobbies included gardening, fishing, reading, and traveling.  She taught herself how to oil paint, and she became very good at it.  She loved watching the birds that came to her house—humming birds, orioles, and blue birds.  She loved Spring as everything was turning green and the flowers would start to show above the ground.  Vases of flowers would adorn her house at this time of the year.  Florence’s family was her most important thing in her life, and this showed by the apparent closeness of her family.
Florence loved life and the beauty all around her.  She loved all flowers and the outdoors.  She has blessed the lives of her family with her love and her laughter.  She is gone, but never forgotten.
Florence is survived by three daughters: Dawna (Reeve) Cook of Huntington, Ella Ruth Wayman of Aurora, and Merrillee (John) Zmerzlikar of Helper; one sister, Doris Miller of Magna; three brothers: George Tucker of Huntington, Lyle Tucker of Aurora, and Gery Tucker of Salt Lake; nine Grandchilren, twelve Great-Grandchildren, and one Great-Great-Grandchild.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband, Reed; her second husband, George; a sister, Nedra Winder; two brothers Merrille “June” Tucker, Jr., and Blaine Kay Tucker; and two sons, Jerry Wayman and Tracy Poulos.
Graveside services will be Tuesday May 6, 2008 at 1:00 p.m at the Cleveland City Cemetery.  A viewing will be held Tuesday from 11:00 to 12:30 at Fausett Mortuary in Castle Dale.  Services are in the care of Fausett Mortuary.
       

Disease major obstacle in cow-calf operations

Glen L. Jensen, DVM

Disease represents a major obstacle to the profitability of many cow-calf operations.  Animal death, failure or decreased efficiency in reproduction, and decreases in growth and productivity may all be the result of disease.  Losses may also never be observed, these problems come about as “subclinical disease” and may quietly rob the cow-calf operator of profits.  Healthy cattle may also have a higher value at the time of sale, and be more uniform in size.

Treatment of many cattle diseases can be quite expensive and very unrewarding.  Production losses may often occur before disease is able to be diagnosed and treated.  Herd health programs should be designed to provide routine, planned procedures which will prevent or minimize disease.

Herd health programs may fail if there is too much reliance put on vaccinations and other treatments.  Vaccinations  are an important tool, but not a cureall.  Effective programs integrate medicine and management to prevent disease.  A producer  may want to consider three important areas in a herd health program.

1-            Prevent Exposure to Disease.  Do not bring disease to your herd through replacements.  This may be a baby calf, replacement heifer, or a bull that is to be used for breeding.  Purchasing and quarantine procedures should be used to decrease the likelihood of disease introduction.  Operations with increase concentration of livestock may need more intensive preventive programs.

2-            Keep Disease Resistance High.  Nutrition, management, and housing programs should be designed to help decrease stress and keep resistance to disease high at all times.  In Emery and Carbon counties there are many areas where due to high sulfur and alkali, our cattle become copper deficient.  These elements bind and “tie up” copper so that it is not available to the animal.  Low copper levels can lead to decreased immune status and decreased reproductive performance.  Resistance to specific diseases can sometimes be accomplished by vaccination.

3-            If Disease Occurs, Prevent its Spread. Segregate affected animals immediately.  Have a diagnosis made, and take recommended action as soon as possible.

Herd health programs must be tailored to each individual production situation.  Handling cattle is stressful, time consuming, and may be expensive, therefore the benefits gained must outweigh the costs.  Veterinarians are trained in herd health management and keep up to date on current deseases, treatments and prevention measures.  If is important to have a veterinarian involved with tailoring heard health programs.

Herd health programs and other cattle management procedures work best with calving is confined to a 60 – 90 day period.  Short calving periods will also help control diseases like trichomoniasis which has been prevalent in our area for far too long; it also adds value to calves because they are more uniform.  Most programs will be based on handling cows and calves twice a year and calves at birth.  There are times when cattle may need to be handled more often.

Pre-breeding  management of cows includes reproductive vaccines Leptospirosis, Vibriosis, IBR, BVD, PI3, BRSV; parasite control, checking identification, eyes, teeth , feet , legs and udders.  Bulls should receive the same vaccines and have a thorough Breeding Soundness Examination.

Pre-weaning cows are diagnosed for pregnancy, eyes, teeth, feet, legs, and udders checked, treated for parasites, check identification and scours vaccines may be appropriate.

Newborn calf (24 hours old): disinfect navel, identify, vitamin A&D injection, and in some cases 7 or 8 way clostridial vaccine.  Bull calves may be castrated and dehorning may be done.

Mid-nursing (2 – 6 months old calves): Vaccination with 7 or 8-way clostridial vaccine, respiratory vaccinations, implant growth promotant (replacement heifers less than 400 lbs can be given a single implant.)  Deworm and dehorn if needed.

Preweaning calves: These procedures should be done 3-4 weeks prior to weaning to allow time for immunity to develop before weaning.  Vaccines: 7 or 8-way clostridial, respiratory viruses and Pasteurella, and Brucellosis for replacement heifers.  Parasite control, implant growth promotant, dehorn if needed.

Nutrition is important during all stages of cow-calf production but is especially important around weaning, calving, and breeding.  Nutrition is much more than good looking hay and an occasional mineral block.  Our area has some unique aspects that makes certain minerals like copper very important. (Jensen is a doctor of veterinarian medicine at Emery Animal Health.)

Take caution as you let your pets enjoy the great outdoors

Sharon Gilbert, DVM

In the spring and summer we all enjoying being outside.  Often we have our pets with us.  Here are some ideas to help keep us and our pets safe during activities outside.

Picture “Buddy,” a very large Mastiff, riding in the back of the truck, perched on the wheel well, face to the wind, ears and saliva flying.  He is really enjoying the ride.  Most dogs enjoy riding in the back of the truck. I wonder if they imagine that they are running really fast?  The problem is, it is not safe.  We see many injured dogs that have jumped out of the back of a moving truck, or fallen out in an accident or in a quick stop.  If your dog is allowed to ride in the back, he should be cross tied in or be in a crate that is tied into the back of the truck.  Make sure he is not on a rope that will allow him to jump out and be drug.  This will help keep him safe in the back of the truck.  Inside the car, you may consider a pet seat-belt.  This will help protect your pet in the event of an accident and will protect you from your pet colliding with another person inside the car in an accident.  The seat belt will also keep your pet away from you while you are driving.  Let’s keep our pets safely inside vehicles.

Before we were married, my husband had some sheep.  Over several days some dogs that were running loose came and killed a number of his sheep.  The animal control officer was called and two of the three dogs were caught and taken in.  The third could not be caught and was shot.  One dog was a loving  golden retriever, a family pet.  When the family came to the dog pound they were overjoyed to find their lost pet, and then dismayed to find that they owed a large fine, to pay for several sheep the dog had killed.

We enjoy the thought of our dogs running free, no restraint, to be able to run and play and have all the fun they want.  The trouble is, they get into trouble.  Besides damaging other people’s property or people, dogs running loose can get hit by cars, get in dog fights, or eat toxins and garbage.  Remember, they can get hurt themselves and they are our property.  We are responsible for what they do.  Even though we live in a rural area, we have leash laws.  Having your dog in a fenced in area while it is outside protects you, your neighbors and your dog.  Invisible fences can work well to keep your dog in your yard, but remember, they will not keep another animal out of your yard.  It is not only safe, but also responsible to keep your dog contained in your yard or on a leash. 

Although cats are much healthier indoors, many people have outside cats to help with rodent control. They have to be allowed to roam to do their job.  If a cat needs to be outside, owners can help protect them by spaying and neutering. Cats are territorial and often fight for territory and during mating.  Neutered and spayed cats fight much less and tend to stay home more.  If they stay home better, they will hunt more around your house.   Obviously this will also help reduce the number of feral cats.  It is an old wives’ tale that a cat with kittens will hunt better than a spayed cat.  Cats naturally hunt, litter of kittens or not.  Indoor cats avoid exposure to diseases such as Feline Leukemia and Feline immunodeficiency virus.  They also avoid bite wounds and injuries.  Indoor cats do need things to do inside.  Because they are natural hunters they need toys and play that helps fill that need and give them exercise.  Some owners even build large outside cages that attach to a window so cats can safely go outdoors and play.   Enjoy the spring and summer, enjoy your pet and help keep them safe. (Gilbert is a doctor of veterinarian medicine with Emery Animal Health.)

April 15, 2008

Un-Citified

Emery County looks to play off ‘brand’
of San Rafael Swell to entice vacationers to the area

James L. Davis

There’s nothing citified about the San Rafael Swell. For those who make the journey to Emery County, most aren’t looking for a climate controlled experience, they are looking to get dirty, go a little extreme and have a lot of fun.

When it comes to developing a marketing brand for Emery County, it already has one uniquely its own in the San Rafael Swell. The trick is to develop the brand in such a way that it benefits the people and businesses of the county, which has been no small feat for those looking to capture tourist dollars.

In years past the county has pooled its tourist efforts with Carbon County and the Castle Country Travel Bureau, but a change of philosophy by county planners has resulted in a renewed focus by the Emery County Travel Bureau on the San Rafael Swell rather than other attractions in the area.

“We’ve just come to the conclusion that we need to invest our travel money in a way that we have a return on our investment,” said Mike McCandless, director of Emery County Economic Development. “And the way that money is returned is that we fill up the motels and hotels in Emery County, which is primarily in Green River, Huntington, Castle Dale and Ferron.”

Developing a marketing strategy that focuses on the Swell means that when it comes to tourism, the county will for the most part go it alone. Completely contained within Emery County, the San Rafael Swell is a giant playground for the extreme, and one the county is striving to develop strategies for that will benefit businesses of the county.

“We want to make sure that we promote our San Rafael more so than we promote things on the mountain. It is very difficult for us to realize any revenue from activities that are promoted on Skyline Drive. How are they going to get there? They are going to buy their fuel from Fairview or someplace like that and we’ll never see them,” McCandless said. “That doesn’t mean we’re giving up on the mountain and don’t think it’s important, it’s still part of our strategy, but when we do our promotional efforts, that’s our first consideration, so we are trying to re-brand ourselves and that brand is the San Rafael country. We actually think that’s a more recognizable name than Castle Country. The San Rafael is known world wide.”

Focusing on the San Rafael also means that the county will try to attract tourists to events that will keep them (and their dollars) in the county, which has long been a problem.

“We’ve been in a relationship with Carbon County and the Castle Country Travel Bureau and we’re not abandoning Carbon County, but frankly, on many of the activities we end up filling up Price hotel rooms when there are more hotel rooms in Green River,” McCandless said. “We’re not in any kind of fight with Carbon County, they’re one of our best partners and we will continue to work with them very closely, but we believe we have a slightly different clientele who are interested in coming to our area then in the way they market. We see the more extreme visitors, the mountain bikers, the river runners. Carbon County is targeting more of the museum goers, the Nine Mile Canyon viewing visitors, more of the family type of market. Our clientele are more inclined to bring a four-wheeler with them or horses. They are more focused on the activities that you can do in the Swell than the amenities we can offer once you get here.”

Areas of the Swell the travel bureau will focus attention on include attractions such as Goblin Valley, the Wedge, and Swinging Bridge and many of the activities that the county will use to lure visitors in are events that are, for the most part, already in existence. Events such as the Castle Valley Pageant, the Emery County Fair and the individual city celebrations held in the county are a draw for visitors. Events such as MECCA’s San Rafael Swell Bike Festival in September and the ATV poker rides, such as the Swell Cure for Cabin Fever ride held April 12, draw hundreds of visitors to the county each year. This year a triathlon and a marathon will also draw a league of athletes (and their families and friends) to the county.

“These are largely existing activities; we just need to do a better job of promoting them. We don’t want to put all of our eggs in one basket. Our focus is that activities like the pageant, like the fair, will get them to come here and spend more than just one day here. Those who say there isn’t anything to do in Emery County, well that just isn’t true anymore,” McCandless said.

During the summer months the possibilities to draw tourists to the area exist every week, so much so that many events overlap, creating possibilities to keep visitors to the area for extended stays.

As the travel bureau works to take advantage of and define the brand of the San Rafael Swell, the hope is that the number of possibilities for activities in the county to draw visitors will grow ever larger.

“The San Rafael has a brand that has already been established, we’re just going to find ways to take advantage of that brand and use it to generate revenue, rather than just have the people impact us and have no benefit,” McCandless said.

April 22, 2008

Medical Reserve Corps Looking for Volunteers

Josie Luke

After President George W. Bush’s 2002 State of the Union Address, in which he asked all Americans to volunteer in support of their country, the Medical Reserve Corps was organized. The local unit, the Southeastern Utah MRC is currently looking for volunteers.

“MRC units are community-based and function as a way to locally organize and utilize volunteers who want to donate their time and expertise to prepare for and respond to emergencies and promote healthy living throughout the year. MRC volunteers supplement existing emergency and public health resources,” the MRC website explains.

The SEUMRC is organized under the Southeastern Utah Health Department and is currently looking for doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, veterinarians, mental health professionals, pharmacists, dentists and emergency personnel, including firefighters, EMTs and police, along with anyone else who is willing to help in an emergency.

“We are looking for people who are willing to do what needs to be done,” explained Cynthia Grant, SEUMRC Coordinator. “Basically, the people we can use is anyone who is willing to work in an emergency situation and who is dedicated and willing enough to give back to the community that they would do that without getting paid.”

Those who would volunteer for the SEUMRC, would be those who would not already be involved, including those who are retired, not working full-time, working in another field, or not currently working.

Some of the situations Grant sees the SEUMRC volunteers working in are in circumstances like the Crandall Canyon mine disaster, or in the event of a pandemic, flood or earthquake. In such instances, they could help to shelter those involved, provide for medical and physical needs, assist with communications, or anything else that was needed.

Grant said the group is just getting off the ground, but eventually, she would like to see a group of 12 to 20 volunteers in each county, with over 70 percent being lay people, without much medical experience. The program will also have a team leader in each county, who would be paid for five to 10 hours a month. In a team leader, Grant said she is looking for someone with strong people skills, who would take initiative and “quickly catch the vision of the MRC”.

The MRC is designed to be of service in the community in which it is located, and so unlike the Red Cross, the MRC has much more flexibility in how it is organized and how volunteers are used.

Grant sees volunteers supporting local health initiatives and any other community event where medical experience might be needed. She revealed that in some instances, like the bus accident last year near Blanding, people were needed to “just comfort people who were involved”, or to help with logistics and record keeping.

Volunteers would need to go through required trainings in eight core competencies, including training in the National Incident Management System (NIMS), which trains volunteers on how to react in emergencies. The trainings can be taken online and according to Grant, won’t require a huge amount of time.

For questions about the Medical Reserve Corps, or to volunteer, contact Grant at (435)748-2997, on her cell phone at- (435)749-2998, or email her at cgrant@utah.gov.

Feet that Feel the Beat

The Show Time Dancers held their Spring Show May 3 at the Emery High Auditorium before a packed house of family and friends cheering on the dancers as they performed dances in hip hop, tap, ballet and Jazz.  In all the dancers performed 23 dances during the evening.  Under the direction of instructor Donn Jeffs, the Show Time Dancers showed their hours of dedication and practice to the art of dance.  The show was dedicated to the memory of Bertha Branch, who passed away last week at the age of 90.

-Dazed-

For Mother’s Day Hug Your Mom (with both arms)

James L. Davis

If my mom should ever ask you for a hug there is one vital piece of information that you need to be aware for your own protection:  use both arms to hug because a one armed hug is not a true hug, unless one arm is all that you’ve got to hug with.

My brothers and sisters and I have learned this handy piece of information over the years and the grandchildren have by now all been fairly well indoctrinated, although we all slip up from time to time and try to give my mom a one-armed hug, to which she responds “is there something wrong with your other arm?”

Another vital piece of information when it comes to giving my mom a hug is that a hug is meant to be forceful enough that it is slightly painful.  If you are close to but not actually breaking a rib when giving a hug, then you’re pretty close to giving a perfect hug.

My mom didn’t always have an issue with how you gave hugs as long as you gave them.  I have been known to give a hands free hug or two in my time, which involves resting your chin across the recipients shoulder and looking down, which I guess could be categorized as a head hug, if you were interested in categorizing types of hugs.

My mom’s issues have evolved over the years, and today she takes issue with how hugs are given.  Her issues used to be drinking out of the milk jug, not washing behind your ears, back talking and not eating all of your vegetables.  These might still be issues with my mom, I’m not entirely sure.  She hasn’t looked to see if I am washing behind my ears since I was in my mid-30s. 

All mothers have issues and are free to change those issues at any given time with or without notice.  It’s written in the Mothers Handbook.  They are entitled to do so due to the fact that they brought us into this world, which in the grand scheme of things is a fairly significant event in our lives.

It is best not to draw too much attention to the fact that mothers have issues because they don’t like being told they have issues.  It’s another issue they all share.

My wife, for instance, has an issue with the word “yeahbut,” which I realize is not an actual word but is, nevertheless, a word heard quite often around our house.  It is often the first word out of our kids’ mouth following any instruction given by an elder that the children do not wish to hear. 

For example, if one of us was to say “Go clean your room,” the response from our children would be “Yeahbut I was going to clean it tomorrow.”  Another example would be if we were to say “Stop arguing with me,” their response would be “Yeahbut I’m not arguing.”

I discovered that this particular Mother’s Issue of my wife’s was inherited, not from her mother but from her father.  When he hears someone say “yeahbut” he wants to know immediately what a yeahbut is and where one might be found.

I also discovered that this word originated with my wife.  She apparently termed the phrase.  I try not to mention this fact very often because my wife might have an issue with that fact.

The truly amazing thing to me about Mother’s Issues is the fact that invariably it seems your wife will quite often have many of the same issues as your mother.

For instance, when I was a boy I was terrified whenever my mom took me to a fast food restaurant.  The reason for this was because invariably something was going to go wrong. It is a fundamental law of fast food restaurants that something always goes wrong.  Usually this revolved around the food not being prepared according to order or there being too much or too little change given back.  Either event was a major issue with my mom and you were going to hear about it. So was everyone else.  This might still by one of my mom’s Mother’s Issues, I don’t know because I don’t go to fast food restaurants with her anymore.

But I do go to fast food restaurants with my wife, and my children have informed me that my wife has the same issues as my mother about bad service.  I, of course, knew this before they told me because I recognized the fear in their eyes when we go out to eat.

The fact that we have Mother’s Issues to fret over is one of the great things about having a mother.  The fact that they can change their issues at any given moment makes life more interesting.

So for Mother’s Day I highly recommend that everyone give their mother a hug…with both arms.

-Casey’s World-

While other careers fizzle, technology-based car