Quarterly Outstanding Public Service Award: Pete Morphy
December 2, 2025
Pete Morphy was born in Modesto, California. Pete graduated high school from Hughson High school in Hughson, California. Pete grew up helping his grandpa farm walnuts and amonds (they are almonds on tree and then you shake the “L” out of them). Pete has built a life centered on family, community, faith, and service. After serving a two-year mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Manaus, Brazil, Pete married his wife Kati in Vernal, Utah. He graduated from Utah State University–Uintah Basin with a degree in business management and went on to build a career in community banking. He currently serves as President of Grand Valley Bank in Vernal, Utah. He has worked at the bank since 2012.
Deeply committed to the Vernal community, Pete stays actively involved in a variety of local organizations. He is a member of the Vernal Dinah-mites where is served as president in 2023 and 2024, serves on the Vernal Area Chamber of Commerce Board, is an RLF Board Member for the Uintah Basin Association of Governments, and sits on the Board of the Intermountain Natural History Association. He also contributes his time serving on the Business Development Committee. In addition, Pete supports youth sports as a Vernal Girls Softball Board Member and has coached girls’ softball for many years as well as other sports his kids are involved with.
Pete is an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He is married to his best friend wife Kati Labrum Morphy, and together they have four beautiful daughters, who keep them busy and grateful. Their oldest daughter is 16 and the youngest is 8.
When he’s not working or volunteering, Pete enjoys chasing his daughters to their many activities, boating, fishing, coaching, cooking great food, and spending quality time with family.
Jordan Clark’s creative path began in 2020 with the launch of Ninty1 Designs, where his hand-painted murals quickly became a familiar sight throughout Vernal. As projects grew in size and scope, Jordan brought on Tonya Merrell to help with mural work, and it didn’t take long to recognize her strong background in screen printing and apparel production. What started as collaboration on walls naturally evolved into a shared vision—creating something lasting together that blended art, quality, and service. In 2023, that vision became Inked Threads, a custom apparel shop built on creativity and collaboration. Today, Jordan and Tonya own and operate Inked Threads, serving the Basin and surrounding areas with fast turnaround times, high-quality custom apparel, and in-house design that brings each customer’s vision to life. Their mission is to become the most reliable custom apparel shop in the Basin, while staying deeply connected to the community by supporting many youth activities and programs, such as local youth baseball and softball programs.
Founded in 2005 by Brian Nielson and Mike Eskelson, this trusted local contractor has delivered high-quality residential and commercial projects across the Uintah Basin for nearly 20 years. From custom homes and subdivisions to projects like Vernal Urgent Care, Dinoland Bowling, and the Vernal LDS Temple remodel, they exceed expectations every time with precision, transparency, and integrity. Even more impressive is their commitment to giving back through youth sports, schools, and community service. Proud to celebrate a company that builds strong communities! Congratulations Columbia Construction!
Davis November 2025 Business of the Month Jim and Debbie Davis, owners of Davis Food & Drug, moved to Vernal from Jackson Hole, Wyoming in March 1988. At that time their 2 sons, CJ and Lee respectively, were 4 and 2 years old. As the years have passed, both boys joined their parents in the business and are now both taking an active role as owners of the family- owned business. The stores in Vernal and Roosevelt were formerly Safeway and then Farmer Jack grocery stores. Upon purchasing the stores, Jim and Debbie converted them to IGA Su per Centers. Throughout the 34 years of owning this grocery business, the family has changed the name of the business several times, largely due to circumstances out of their hands. A few years ago, they made the decision to put their own name on the business, assuring the communities they plan to continue servicing their customers for years to come. Once settled in the community, they immediately joined the Chamber of Commerce in both Vernal and Roosevelt, recognizing the value of being involved in the community. They also encouraged their employees to get involved in the community and volunteer in organizations and activities that interested them. The IGA motto was and still is ''Hometown Proud" and although Davis Food & Drug is no longer affiliated with IGA, they have never abandoned the "Hometown Proud" philosophy. The Davis Family have continued to encourage their management teams at Davis Food and Drug to carry forward the way of life of participating, giving, and contributing to the community where they live and work. In tum, the management teams encourage the store associates to do the same. Consequently, the stores have participated in community events as varied as the Chamber of Commerce and Rotary Club, where we are the pickup and drop off location for Santa's Community Effort. Davis also sponsors the Dinosaur Roundup Rodeo, Storytelling Festival, Mayors Halloween Walk, Hotel Vernal Haunt, Dina-Soar Days, Dino ½ Marathon and many other events around-town. In addition to serving the community, the Davis family looks for ways to make grocery shopping as easy and enjoyable as possible in an ever changing world. The Davis family is consistently trying new technology and sales events to find ways to interact with and help their customers have a pleasant shopping experience. The Davis Family is honored to be recognized with this award and pledge to continue working for and with the communities they serve.
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Founded in 1968 and headquartered in Meridian, Idaho, Commercial Tire has proudly served the Northwest for over five decades. The company operates locations across Idaho, Oregon, Washington, and Utah, including a valued presence here in Vernal.
What began as a family-owned business has grown into a 100% employee-owned
August 2025 Business of the Month High Desert Neurology About High Deseret Neurology At High Deseret Neurology, they are proud to be a private practice dedicated to serving the Uintah Basin since January 2024. Dr. Buchanan, a trusted neurologist, has been providing exceptional care in this area for over a decade. Originally from Anchorage, Alaska, he appreciates the opportunity to practice in a rural setting with more favorable weather, and truly enjoys serving the wonderful people of Vernal, Utah. In 2025, they were thrilled to welcome Heather Bascom, a warm, enthusiastic, and thoughtful Nurse Practitioner, to our team. Growing up in the area, Heather's dedication further expands our capacity to provide comprehensive neurological care. Their Mission and Services Their mission at High Deseret Neurology is to offer compassionate treatment to their patients while fostering a positive and supportive workplace for their team. They provide general neurology services for both children and adults, addressing a wide range of neurological conditions. Beyond patient care, they are deeply committed to nurturing the next generation of medical professionals, including students and residents. They believe in sharing their knowledge and experience to help shape the future of healthcare. They’re thrilled to have doubled their patient volume since opening and are excited for continued growth as they serve the Uintah Basin community! They’ve also enjoyed actively participating in Chamber of Commerce events, learning from other local businesses, and building a stronger sense of community here in the Basin. The public relations committee of the Vernal Area Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the August 2025 Business of The Month, High Desert Neurology.
June 2025 Business of the Month Kim Jones - Crimson Oak Financial Management Harold Kim Jones was born here in Vernal, UT many years ago. His parents are Red and Petra Jones who built Arby’s when they moved back to Vernal in 1986. He is married to a Texan, Colleen Patricia Townson, and they are the parents of three children and 3 grandchildren. Kim opened his successful surgical and wound care specialized practice here in Vernal in 1992. He served patients for 20 years from all over the country, with 4 offices including Duchesne, Roosevelt, IHS, and his main office in Vernal. He served in several leadership positions at ARMC, as well as the Utah Podiatric Medical Assoc. for many years. He taught many seminars in the basin regarding diabetes, foot health, wound care, and sports medicine. He sold his practice at the height of his career in 2011. Kim and Colleen have served in 4-H capacities with horses, and cattle. They raise longhorn cattle and sponsored a long horn show here during the county fair years ago. They even had a steer broke to ride in the parades for a few years. Kim played on city league basketball, volleyball, and softball teams. He has played guitar with several members in the community in a club. They have served in the Republican party locally and the state central committee for several years. They have served on several boards including Friends of Ashley Valley, and Uintah Schools foundation. They have supported the arts, including UBOC, and Ora Faye’s academy of music. They helped plan and manage the Dinosaur Triathlon for several years. Kim made the coprolite trophies for the contestants. He served on the Dinah-Mites for many years as well. Kim volunteered about 20 years ago to teach anatomy, physiology, and microbiology at the Vernal USU campus. He has served in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day saints in many capacities. Kim and Colleen together have donated time and money to the community over the 34 years they have been in the Basin through various charities and organizations.They have served in highway clean ups and community improvement plans. They helped coach soccer, basketball, baseball, and flag football teams with their children. Kim supported Colleen with her education, and she eventually became the first PHD to be awarded in Ecology in the Basin at our local campus. Kim loves to spend time at the lakes here in the Basin water skiing, and surfing with friends and family. He is usually the first one on the water after the ice melts, and one of the last to winterize his boat. He also has had an art show at the Sandau Art Studio showing off his hobby of intarsia woodworking (surgical skills). Kim continues to serve in the community. After he sold his practice at age 47, he started a whole new career as one of the few certified financial planners in the Basin. He teaches individuals, families, groups, community members, county employees and private businesses how money works. He teaches financial literacy, financial wealth and independence. Kim is driven to help people escape the nightmare of living paycheck to paycheck. He loves helping people learn how money works. He takes the time to teach people to dream, and then works to develop solid, simple savings plans to help individuals achieve their dreams of financial happiness and independence. The Vernal Area Chamber of Commerce Public Relations Committee is pleased to present June 2025 Business of the Month to Crimson Oak Financial Management.
March 2025 Business of the Month Wingers Coming from a background of construction and real estate, Eric Gunter has been involved in the restaurant Industry for almost 20 years. Working for companies such as Cracker Barrel, Brick Oven Pizza and Pasta, he has been with Wingers for 12 years. Wingers Restaurant and Alehouse have been a staple in the Basin for Over 20 years. In March 2013, Eric took over operations as General Manager of the 2500sq ft diner style restaurant, where over 4 years Eric and his team grew sales and rebuilt the community’s faith in the concept. In late 2017 it became clear that to continue to grow and provide the Basin with the best experience, Wingers needed a new look and new location. In August 2018 they opened their new 5300 sq foot concept with a new look and vibe. The Wingers’ mission is to create amazing experiences every day for each guest they serve. Wingers are heavily involved in youth hockey and a title sponsor of the Vernal Oilers. Wingers also contribute to and supports, High School Sports, The Lane Frost Challenge, Holly Days, Golf Events, and many other local events, and activities. Thanks to the Basin, we continue to be the most successful, by all metrics in the Wingers System. The Vernal Area Chamber of Commerce and the Public Relations Committee are proud to present March 2025 Business of the Month.
Priority First Real Estate Business of the Month February 2025 Priority First Real Estate Professionals was started in 2017 by Emily and Clint Pedersen. As a small-town brokerage, they are built on the foundation of relationships, trust, and a deep commitment to our community Vision & Mission Their vision is simple: to be the trusted real estate partner of choice, helping individuals and families find the right place to call home. Whether it’s purchasing a first home, finding the perfect rental, or investing in real estate, they believe that the dream of homeownership—and having a safe place to belong and call home—should be available to everyone in our communities. Their mission is to put clients first in every transaction, delivering expert guidance, honest service, and a seamless experience. Real estate is more than just buying and selling; it’s about helping people achieve their goals and build a future. Commitment to Community They know that strong communities create strong markets, which is why they are deeply committed to giving back. Whether it’s through local fundraisers, supporting small businesses, or volunteering for causes that matter, Priority First Real Estate Professionals is dedicated to making a real impact where they live and work. Emily says, “We are incredibly grateful for this recognition and for the support of our amazing clients, business partners, and fellow community members. Thank you for trusting us to serve this great community—we look forward to many more years of helping dreams become reality, one home at a time!” The Vernal Area Chamber of Commerce is pleased to recognize Priority First Real Estate Professionals as the February 2025 business of the month.
White Smiles Pediatric Dentistry - January 2025 Business of the Month White Smiles Pediatric Dentistry has been serving the families of the Uintah Basin for 15 years. Why should you choose a pediatric dentist? They spend an additional two years in specialty training beyond dental school focusing solely on the oral healthcare needs of children and those with special needs. Dr. Travis White and Dr. Kolby Lance are Diplomates of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry and have passed a series of rigorous exams to become board-certified pediatric dental specialists. Dr. White was born and raised in Roosevelt. He founded White Smiles in 2009 after seeing the need for a children’s dental specialist in the Basin. He and his wife Alicia have three children, Kiara, Kenton, and Mckenzie, and they absolutely love living in Vernal among family and friends. One of the most rewarding things about practicing in the Basin has been the ability to reestablish relationships within the community. Travis completed his dental training at the University of Kentucky and then continued his training in the specialty of pediatric dentistry at the Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center. He enjoys spending time outdoors, mountain biking and attending sporting events with his kids (Mckenzie currently is a multi-sport collegiate athlete). Dr. Kolby Lance joined Dr. White almost six years ago, and they are 50-50 partners in the practice. He was born and raised in Vernal. Kolby and his wife Tara, a dental hygienist, along with their four children, Noah, Sloan, Rowan, and Lottie were excited to have the opportunity to move back to the Basin to join the kid-focused team at White Smiles. After graduating from Brigham Young University, Dr. Lance completed his dental training at the Missouri School of Dentistry and Oral Health. He then continued his training in the specialty of pediatric dentistry at NYU Langone Hospitals. When they aren't doing dentistry, you can find the Lances cheering for their son Noah at Uintah High, camping and four wheeling on the mountain, or watching Utah Jazz games. Dr. White and Dr. Lance believe that great smiles start early. At White Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, their goal is to make your child’s dental experience as positive as possible and alleviate dental fears. The friendly caring staff and kid-friendly environment make dentistry fun and exciting. Everything about their beautiful new facility was designed to make children love the dentist! White Smiles offers many treatment options including sedation for children with many cavities or who are extremely anxious. They even have dental lasers and can fix some cavities without those dreaded shots! Dr. White and Dr. Lance accept many insurances and even have an in-house savings program for those without insurance. They are proud to serve disadvantaged children by accepting Medicaid. Often, extremely young children come to the office with severe early childhood cavities. We’re talking children two to five years old with 5, 10, and even 20 cavities often accompanied by severe pain and facial swelling. Dr. White and Dr. Lance have long-standing privileges at Ashley Regional Medical Center and Uintah Basin Medical Center where they complete hundreds of oral rehabilitation cases each year for children in the Basin. Both doctors are grateful to be raising their families and providing kid-focused dental care in the community they grew up in and love. The Vernal Area Chamber of Commerce is pleased to recognize White Smiles Pediatric Dentistry as the January 2025 business of the month. We would also like to present both Whites Smiles and Revive Skin Care & Laser with a beautification award for their renovation of their new location. They took a worn out building and, with a lot of hard work, turned it into a beautiful facility both inside and out. As shown in the pictures, it looks truly amazing! Thank you for improving and beautifying our community!