Bennu Asteroid Sample Lands in NASA's Extraterrestrial Materials Lab

A piece of the Bennu asteroid has arrived in Utah's desert at NASA's specialized lab after a successful mission by NASA's Osiris-Rex spacecraft. This sample, equivalent to a cup of material, can provide insights into the solar system's formation and the origins of water and life on Earth. The NASA lab responsible, ARES, has a rich history dating back to the Apollo moon missions in 1969. They are poised to catalog and analyze the Bennu sample. NASA plans to preserve most of the material for future research. This mission aids planetary defense efforts against potential asteroid collisions, making it a significant step in our cosmic understanding, all set against the backdrop of Utah's arid desert landscape.

Former Davis High School Secretary Faces Charges Over Misused Funds

In a recent development, Kellie Heather Wilko, a former secretary at Davis High School, has been charged with misusing school funds, including expenditures on her home. Here's a concise overview of the situation:

Between July 2020 and February 2021, Wilko, who resides in Layton, reportedly had access to two school credit cards for authorized expenses. However, she is alleged to have made unauthorized transactions totaling over $80,000 from Davis High School's funds.

The irregularities came to light in April 2021 when the school auditor noticed a transaction of over $1,600 on a PayPal account linked to Wilko. Further investigation revealed 42 unauthorized charges totaling $40,991.62, along with additional unauthorized purchases of $41,053.40. Wilko openly admitted to these charges, acknowledging a total of $82,045.02 in unauthorized purchases.

Wilko is scheduled to make her initial court appearance on November 1.

A Heartfelt Farewell to Hogle Zoo’s Beloved Elephants

The end of an era has arrived as Utahns bid adieu to the cherished African elephants at Hogle Zoo in Salt Lake City. Jenni Oman, a lifelong zoo enthusiast, now shares her love for the zoo with her 4-year-old daughter, Vivian, visiting twice a month.

Hogle Zoo holds a special place in the hearts of many, including Oman and her mother, Marilyn Caracena, who also grew up enjoying the zoo's wonders. They were among the hundreds of Utahns who gathered on a Saturday to say goodbye to the zoo's two African elephants, Christie, 37, and Zuri, 14. These beloved animals will soon join a larger herd at another zoo.

Jenni Oman fondly remembers riding an elephant at Hogle when she was a child in the '80s and expressed her sadness at seeing them leave, but she also understands the importance of this decision.

Heather Barnum, Hogle Zoo spokeswoman, explained that elephants are highly social creatures, thriving in multigenerational herds in the wild. They want Zuri to have the opportunity to have calves and live in such a setting, which is why the decision was made.

It's worth noting that the zoo's breeding program follows the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' species survival plan to protect endangered species, emphasizing that it's not just about breeding for the sake of it.

Hogle Zoo, accredited by the association since 1979, will ensure that Zuri and Christie go to another accredited zoo, although the specific destination remains undisclosed for the animals' safety. Barnum emphasized that this decision was made with utmost care and love for the elephants.

As Kayleigh Shaw, an 8-year-old visitor, came to say her farewells with a stuffed elephant toy in hand, she expressed her sadness at their departure but noted that giraffes still hold the top spot as her favorite animals.

The zoo encourages locals to visit in the coming weeks to bid farewell to the elephants. Although elephants won't return to Hogle, the space may be used for new species or to enhance living quarters for existing zoo residents.

Hogle Zoo remains dynamic and ever-evolving, with 900 other fascinating animals awaiting your visit. Heather Barnum expressed gratitude for the understanding and support from the zoo's guests, emphasizing that the well-being of the animals is their top priority.

🏈Roy Overcomes Slow Start, Dominates Woods Cross 51-17 on the Road

Roy's Royals overcame a slow start and two turnovers to clinch a decisive 51-17 triumph over Woods Cross, improving their season record to 5-2.

Coach Chris Solomona praised his team's growing confidence and understanding of their potential.

Woods Cross led 3-0 after the first quarter, and Roy got on the scoreboard with a safety in the second quarter. The Royals then mounted a 23-0 run, featuring a rushing touchdown by Joseph Cariaga, a 35-yard field goal by Aidan Hart, a 41-yard touchdown catch by Rhett Slater, and a successful 47-yard field goal by Colby Frokjer.

Woods Cross scored their first touchdown in the third quarter, but Roy responded immediately with a 71-yard touchdown pass from Dru Gardner to Robert Young.

Despite Woods Cross adding another touchdown early in the fourth quarter, Roy closed out the game with 21 unanswered points.

Coach Solomona emphasized their "1-0 every week" mindset, focusing on continual improvement and trust. Roy faces Viewmont this week, while Woods Cross looks to rebound against Northridge. In Region 5, Box Elder maintains a 4-0 record after a narrow 31-28 win against Viewmont.

🏈Farmington Secures First Season Win with 43-21 Victory Over Layton

Farmington notched their first win of the season with a 43-21 victory over Layton in a game where both teams were seeking their first win. Farmington's offense came alive after a slow start, led by an 86-yard punt return for a touchdown. Layton's quarterback Madden Sargent found the end zone for the Lancers, but Farmington maintained control, scoring on multiple possessions. Star running back Lucas Peterson finished with four touchdowns, sealing the win. Farmington continues region play against Weber on September 29, while Layton faces Davis at home.

Farmers Markets in the Bountiful Area:
Support Local Vendors and Have Some Family Fun!

North Salt Lake Farmers Market
Saturdays, 9 am-2 pm, August-September
Legacy Park, North Salt Lake

Bountiful Farmers Market
Thursdays 4-9 pm, June 15–October 12, 2023
Bountiful Town Square, Bountiful

Downtown Farmers Market
Saturdays 8 am-2 pm, June–October 2023
Pioneer Park, Salt Lake

Celebrate National Pancake Day Today! Twice the Fluffy Fun!!

Today is the day to flip your way into happiness because it's National Pancake Day! And guess what? This year, we're doubling the delight with the second National Pancake Day on September 26th. So, fire up that griddle and let's get those pancakes sizzling!

Pancakes, those golden circles of joy, have been gracing breakfast tables for centuries, dating all the way back to Ancient Greece. Since then, they've taken on countless delicious forms around the world.

In places like Britain, France, and various parts of Europe, you'll find thin and delicate pancakes, often served with a delightful mix of sweet or savory fillings. Over in Indonesia, they whip up "serabi" pancakes using rice flour and creamy coconut milk, creating a unique and scrumptious twist. And don't forget about Uganda, where pancakes get a tropical twist with the addition of bananas.

These are just a few of the mouthwatering pancake variations from across the globe, and they all deserve a special place in your heart and on your plate.

So, no matter which style of pancake makes your taste buds dance, get ready to stack 'em high and celebrate the fluffy goodness of National Pancake Day on September 26th. And remember, this is the second time this year we're indulging in this delightful tradition, so let's make it twice as sweet! Happy flipping!

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