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** Letter from Gov. Cox: Launching GRIT
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For years, we’ve been asking hard questions — how can we do better? Where are we falling short? And what can we rebuild to better serve the people of Utah?
Now, we’re putting a name to that mindset: GRIT ([link removed]) .
The Government Reform, Innovation & Transparency initiative reflects our commitment to improvement — but it also pushes us into new territory. This isn’t just about recognizing what’s already working. It’s about surfacing ideas from every level of government and building new systems that deliver better results for Utahns.
We’ve seen time and again what’s possible when Utahns tackle problems with creativity and determination. GRIT helps us do more of that, and makes it easier to share those wins so others can build on them.
Thank you for being part of this work. We’re just getting started.
Sincerely,
** Honoring Utah Treasures: Coach Mike and Tracey Ripplinger
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We had the privilege of visiting the home of Coach Mike and Tracey Ripplinger to present them with the very first Utah Treasure award — a new recognition honoring quiet heroes whose steady leadership strengthens our state. Surrounded by former athletes who are now leaders in their own right, it was clear that the Ripplingers’ impact went far beyond wins or titles. For 36 years, they built a culture of trust and support, showing up for students and creating a sense of family that still runs deep in their neighborhood. Mike and Tracey, thank you for showing us what it means to lead with heart.
** Utah showcase: Box Elder County
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There’s something special about Box Elder County. On May 13, we spent the day meeting with educators, public servants, and community members who are shaping Utah’s future. From a behind-the-scenes look at the Mantua Fish Hatchery, where six million trout eggs are produced each year, to a lunch stop at the historic Idle Isle Café, Utah’s oldest continuously operating restaurant, every visit told a story of service, tradition, and community pride. Thank you, Box Elder County, for all you do to keep our state strong. Let’s keep building.
Watch the video > ([link removed])
two men in suits shake hands with a man in a military uniform holding a trophy
** Celebrating Utah’s finest
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At the Utah Servicemembers of the Year awards ceremony, we were proud to celebrate those who exemplify the highest form of service. The honorees weren’t just recognized for their courage; they reminded us what it means to serve with selflessness and purpose. As we approach the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, we’re reminded that the freedoms we hold dear — life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness — have always depended on those willing to defend them. Research tells us that real happiness comes from connection and service. These remarkable individuals live that truth every day. We are better because of them.
Watch the video > ([link removed])
** Acceler8 Wasatch: a hub for innovation and national security
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The second annual Aerospace and Defense Acceler8 Wasatch event was held last week at Ogden’s historic Union Station, bringing together aerospace and defense professionals from Davis and Weber counties. The event provided a valuable opportunity to strengthen connections with Hill Air Force Base.
Lt. Gov. Henderson’s remarks emphasized Hill Air Force Base’s role as Utah’s largest single-site employer and a vital contributor to our national security. The Lt. Gov. also underscored the importance of local businesses and the value they bring to the base’s ongoing success
** Utah’s significance in the nuclear sector
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Lt. Gov. Henderson met with representatives from Western Zirconium to discuss Utah's critical role in the global nuclear fuel supply chain. Located in Weber County, it is one of the few companies authorized to manufacture Small Modular Reactors for the Department of Defense, an important part of Utah's goal to double our energy production through Operation Gigawatt ([link removed]) .
** State agency updates
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The Driver License Division and DMV launched Utah’s first mobile-first state websites. Designed for speed and ease, the new sites improve customer experience across devices. Explore the updates at DLD.Utah.gov ([link removed]) and DMV.Utah.gov ([link removed]) .
Cedar Valley Elementary in Alpine School District planted a NASA “Moon Tree” grown from a seed that orbited the Moon in 2022. NASA selects a few organizations each year to serve as Moon Tree custodians, honoring space exploration.
Celebrate Utah’s past, present, and future at Preservation Engaged: Celebrating Utah's Communities. The Utah State Historic Preservation Office invites you to join them June 13 at historic Wasatch Academy in Mt. Pleasant. Learn more and register here. ([link removed])
Congratulations to Merrily Cannon (left), the Utah State Library Division’s development program manager, on receiving the 2025 President's Award at the Utah Library Association conference. The award honors her outstanding contributions and dedication to strengthening library services across Utah.
Now in its fourth year, the Utah Food Security Grant ([link removed]) from the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food helps Utah farmers and producers expand operations and increase access to local food. Applications for 2025 funding are open now.
The Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation has awarded more than $23.2 million to support 142 outdoor recreation projects across all 29 counties through the Utah Outdoor Recreation Grant, Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Grant, and Recreational Trails Program.
The Department of Workforce Services has released new data ([link removed]) showing Utah’s April job growth rate at 2.1%, outpacing the national rate of 1.2%. Over the past year, the state added 36,000 jobs, and unemployment remains low at 3.1%.
The Utah Board of Pardons and Parole now offers public access to thousands of historic decisions through its online portal ([link removed]) —no GRAMA request needed. This update increases transparency and supports Utah’s GRIT initiative.
The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources has allocated $4 million ([link removed]) through the Species Protection Account to fund 30 wildlife-related projects in 2025, supporting species recovery and conservation efforts across the state.
The UCAIR Summit at the Natural History Museum celebrated a year of progress in improving Utah’s air quality. The Utah Department of Environmental Quality is proud to partner with UCAIR in advancing innovative, collaborative solutions for cleaner air.
Friday, May 16 marked Endangered Species Day — a chance to celebrate three Utah species listed under the Endangered Species Act that have made major recovery progress ([link removed]) over the past five years thanks to dedicated conservation efforts.
Every individual who enters Utah’s prison system receives a dental exam ([link removed]) . Correctional Health Services treats about 1,000 patients each month — 12,000 a year — performing 42,000 fillings and improving health, comfort, and quality of life for incarcerated individuals across the state.
** 🗞️ ICYMI
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🤝 Gov. Cox joins Dreamland author Sam Quinones for a discussion on tackling addiction and homelessness in Utah. Learn more > ([link removed])
🏛️ The new laylight dome in the North Capitol Building honors the people, places, and principles that make Utah exceptional. Learn more > ([link removed])
🍭 Gov. Cox helps celebrate Utah’s Sweet Candy Company’s 125th anniversary! See more > ([link removed])
⛏️ Mining plays a major role in putting Utah’s economy ahead of the national average. Watch more > ([link removed])
🫂 Gov. Cox speaks at the Crossroads of the World International Trade Summit to discuss the importance of community. Learn more > ([link removed])
⛽ Shell Energy and Fervo Energy have signed a long-term agreement connected to Cape Station in Beaver County – the world’s largest enhanced geothermal systems development. Learn more > ([link removed])
🎷 Hot House West recognized at the Governor’s Mansion Artist Awards. Watch > ([link removed])
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