King George rising senior Callista Rash and Courtland rising senior Kayden Whitaker were among the local highlights as the Virginia High School League released the Class 4 spring track and field teams on July 13.
High School Sports
Guest opinion
Across the state, emergency room nurses like myself have simultaneously been preparing for and dreading this day: Utah has now confirmed its first three measles cases in the current outbreak. There is good reason why even one case of measles triggers a heightened response. Measles is one of the most contagious diseases known to humans. […]

Across the state, emergency room nurses like myself have simultaneously been preparing for and dreading this day: Utah has now confirmed its first three measles cases in the current outbreak.
There is good reason why even one case of measles triggers a heightened response. Measles is one of the most contagious diseases known to humans. Prior to the development of the measles-mumps-rubella, or MMR, vaccine, measles hospitalized tens of thousands of U.S. children each year, killed several hundred and wiped the immune memory of many others.
Measles was declared eliminated in the United States in the year 2000, but the number of outbreaks has increased in recent years. Thus far in 2025, the U.S. has confirmed 1,214 measles cases across 36 states — already more than quadruple the number of cases reported in all of 2024. Sadly, this has resulted in three deaths and 146 hospitalizations, predominantly among children.
Leading scientists warn that measles may again become endemic in the United States if vaccination rates remain the same as they are today. In other words, if nothing changes, we could be looking at a future where parents are unable to take their babies to church, daycare, the doctor, or a local museum without potentially exposing them to measles.
Let’s be clear: these outbreaks are preventable. Disease transmission happens when vaccine coverage drops, and Utah is no exception to this reality.

Courtesy photo
Tricia Bunderson
Ten years ago, over 90% of Utah kindergarteners were adequately immunized. Today, that overall number has dropped to 85.7%, with more granular data showing some concerning trends:
- Vaccine exemptions in Utah have risen dramatically over the last few years.
- Online students, although they don’t congregate in public school buildings, now have a vaccine exemption rate of over 50%.
- Charter schools have roughly double the exemption rate compared to district or private schools.
- Currently, 11.2% of Utah students are missing their MMR documentation, and exemption rates jump significantly higher in certain pockets and rural areas around the state.
- There are a number of Utah schools with barely over 50% of students who are adequately immunized. (You can look up your own school’s vaccine coverage on the state immunization dashboard).
These trends create an environment that is ripe for the spread of measles.
Fortunately, kids and adults who have received their MMR vaccine have already put on their proverbial armor. Two doses offer 97% protection against infection, which is truly remarkable.
However, despite such robust vaccine effectiveness, Utah is seeing a drop in vaccination rates. There are many reasons for vaccine hesitancy, and those questions and concerns should be met with compassion and curiosity, not shame or blame.
Many parents are navigating a confusing information landscape, where it can be difficult to separate fact from fiction. A recent Kaiser Family Foundation poll shows that an increasing number of people are encountering false claims about measles and the MMR vaccine, and more than half of Americans feel uncertain about what to believe.
As persuasive online rumors fuel an atmosphere of distrust, it’s more important than ever to know where to get accurate, reliable medical information. Your pediatrician and other qualified healthcare professionals can answer questions about vaccines, clarify any concerns, and provide guidance based on extensive evidence and years of medical training.
It’s crucial to recognize that those who distort the facts often dress up disinformation in the language of “choice” and “freedom.” But this intentionally warps the conversation. Lies and half-truths that convince good people to reject established knowledge aren’t liberating; they’re fundamentally disempowering. In reality, accurate and trustworthy information creates the foundation of true personal agency.
The current measles outbreak has highlighted how individual choices about vaccines affect the wider community. Every choice to vaccinate — or not — shapes the health of those around us. Vaccines not only protect individuals but also create a shield for vulnerable people who cannot be vaccinated, such as infants, the elderly and those with weakened immune systems. Maintaining high vaccination rates ensures protection for everyone.
This moment is a wake-up call. We have the tools to stop this outbreak and to prevent future ones. We must seek accurate information, have open conversations with medical professionals, and remember that our choices ripple outward, touching lives far beyond our own. Through vaccination, we have the power to protect our communities and build a future free from the ravages of preventable disease.
Tricia Bunderson is an ER nurse who lives in Lehi.
High School Sports
Photos
HIGH SCHOOL Alan Arsenault Special to the Telegram & Gazette Players from Bella Marble and Granite (North High) puts their hands in before facing Eddie’s Super Plaza (Doherty) in the Kingsway-Crompton Summer League championship game on Tuesday July 22, 2025. Alan Arsenault/Special To The Telegram & Gazette Eddie’s Super Plaza (Doherty) and Bella Marble and […]

HIGH SCHOOL
Alan Arsenault
Special to the Telegram & Gazette

Players from Bella Marble and Granite (North High) puts their hands in before facing Eddie’s Super Plaza (Doherty) in the Kingsway-Crompton Summer League championship game on Tuesday July 22, 2025.
Alan Arsenault/Special To The Telegram & Gazette

Eddie’s Super Plaza (Doherty) and Bella Marble and Granite (North) tipoff in the Kingsway-Crompton Summer League Championship on Tuesday July 22, 2025.
Alan Arsenault/Special To The Telegram & Gazette

Bella Marble and Granite (North)’s Jyzeer Fiske drains a 3-pointer versus Eddie’s Super Plaza (Doherty) in the Kingsway-Crompton Summer League Championship on Tuesday July 22, 2025.
Alan Arsenault/Special To The Telegram & Gazette

Bella Marble and Granite (North)’s Robert Williams drives as Eddie’s Super Plaza (Doherty)’s Josiah Bates defends in the Kingsway-Crompton Summer League Championship on Tuesday July 22, 2025.
Alan Arsenault/Special To The Telegram & Gazette

Bella Marble and Granite (North)’s Tylib Jenkins looks to pass as Eddie’s Super Plaza (Doherty)’s Jayden Orhon defends in the Kingsway-Crompton Summer League Championship on Tuesday July 22, 2025.
Alan Arsenault/Special To The Telegram & Gazette

Eddie’s Super Plaza (Doherty)’s Jayden Orhon, left, and Bella Marble and Granite (North)’s Miguel Numez reach for a rebound in the Kingsway-Crompton Summer League Championship on Tuesday July 22, 2025.
Alan Arsenault/Special To The Telegram & Gazette

Bella Marble and Granite (North)’s Jyzeer Fiske drives as Eddie’s Super Plaza (Doherty)’s Jariel Hernandez defends in the Kingsway-Crompton Summer League Championship on Tuesday July 22, 2025.
Alan Arsenault/Special To The Telegram & Gazette

Eddie’s Super Plaza (Doherty) and Bella Marble and Granite (North) compete in the Kingsway-Crompton Summer League Championship on Tuesday July 22, 2025.
Alan Arsenault/Special To The Telegram & Gazette

Eddie’s Super Plaza (Doherty)’s Ryan Dennis shoots over Bella Marble and Granite (North)’s Joseph Jaddah in the Kingsway-Crompton Summer League Championship on Tuesday July 22, 2025.
Alan Arsenault/Special To The Telegram & Gazette

Eddie’s Super Plaza (Doherty)’s Hezaki Brown leaps towards the basket versus Bella Marble and Granite (North) in the Kingsway-Crompton Summer League Championship on Tuesday July 22, 2025.
Alan Arsenault/Special To The Telegram & Gazette

Eddie’s Super Plaza (Doherty) poses with their trophy after defeating Bella Marble and Granite (North) in the Kingsway-Crompton Summer League Championship on Tuesday July 22, 2025.
Alan Arsenault/Special To The Telegram & Gazette
High School Sports
Top New Mexico high school football WRs, who will have best 2025 season? Vote
What better way to prep for the high school football season than looking at which players are worth watching on Friday nights? New Mexico high school football will kick off August 18 (first Friday night), which is just under a month away. So, as we gear up for the bright lights, loud crowds and big-time […]


What better way to prep for the high school football season than looking at which players are worth watching on Friday nights?
New Mexico high school football will kick off August 18 (first Friday night), which is just under a month away. So, as we gear up for the bright lights, loud crowds and big-time plays, High School On SI will break down New Mexico’s top players by position heading into the 2025 season.
Not only does this preseason coverage highlight the best returning players ahead of the fall, but it allows the New Mexico high school football community to VOTE on which player could have the biggest 2025 season.
Could it be a rising sophomore? A highly-touted prospect? Could it be a player not listed below?
Some of the players might not be the most highly touted, recruited or covered, but their numbers indicate they are performing at their respective level — and likely impacting victory for their programs.
Below is a list of New Mexico’s top wide receivers to watch ahead of the 2025 season based on a few factors: stats from the previous season (from MaxPreps.com), recruiting status (from 247Sports), and the discretion of the reporter (Tarek Fattal).
(Athletes listed in alphabetical order | Voting poll at bottom of page)
Cox-liggins was one of the state’s best sophomores in 2024. He caught 64 passed for 1,112 yards and 12 TDs. The 6-foot-3 wideout averaged 101 yards per game and averaged 17.4 yards per catch.
Duran tallied 941 yards on just 37 catches and 12 TDs in 2024.
Erickson hauled in 57 passes for 906 yards and nine touchdowns as a junior in 11 games.
Smith led all freshman in receiving yards in 2024. He had 62 catches for 698 yards and 12 TDs for a 10-2 squad last fall.
Lee was one of few 1,000-yard receivers in 2024. He caught 58 balls for 1,182 yards and 17 TDs in 11 games as a junior for the 8-3 Warriors.
Maldanado could be considered the No. 1 wideout in the state heading into 2025. While others on the list could breakout into big seasons, Maldanado is expected to deliver after 918 yards receiving and 11 TD catches to help Cleveland win the 6A title.
La Cueva reached the 6A final in 2024 and could be a force to be reckoned with again in 2025. Montano had 35 receptions for 417 yards and five TDs last year and will likely double his production in 2025.
In 13 games as junior, Winnikoff brought in 51 catches for 781 yards and five TDs for a 6A Cruces team that could see Winnikoff turn into its No. 1 wideout in 2025.
The voting poll will close on Wednesday, July 30 at 8 p.m. (PT).
Bookmark High School on SI for all of the latest high school sports news.
To get live updates on your phone — as well as follow your favorite teams and top games — you can download the SBLive Sports app:
High School Sports
Recent arrest in Connecticut highlights concerns about safety of children online
A former law enforcement officer turned safety expert explained how to protect kids while they use social media or gaming systems. SOUTH WINDSOR, Conn. — After a recent arrest in Connecticut involving possession of child sexual abuse material, a former law enforcement officer offered advice Tuesday on how to protect kids while they use social media […]


A former law enforcement officer turned safety expert explained how to protect kids while they use social media or gaming systems.
SOUTH WINDSOR, Conn. — After a recent arrest in Connecticut involving possession of child sexual abuse material, a former law enforcement officer offered advice Tuesday on how to protect kids while they use social media or gaming systems.
On July 19, Connecticut State Police arrested Daniel Lowell, 63, of Norwich after a year-long investigation uncovered more than 400 images of child sex abuse materials inside his home.
Scott Driscoll, a formal law enforcement officer who investigated internet crimes against children, said he’s seen cases like this too many times.
“It just fuels my passion on trying to prevent it, because what I saw as an adult made me go ‘wow,’ and now we’re going back 22 to years when I started,” Driscoll said.
He also addressed a concerning trend he said has stuck with him all these years.
“It was shocking how quickly someone would send an inappropriate picture, ask for an inappropriate picture,” he said.
Driscoll encouraged parents who have kids that use personal devices and go on social media to keep close tabs on what they’re doing online.
“Parents need an active role, and it’s not easy, but it’s something that is very important. We’ve got to keep instilling in our children, if you don’t know someone, they are a stranger,” he said.
Driscoll offered a number of ways parents can monitor their child’s social media and online habits. These include:
- Understanding how technology works
- Considering family pairing on social media
- Setting an appropriate age limit for children to be on social media
- Talking to kids about what is going on in their lives
Emily Pacheco said her eight-year-old son has started learning online safety at his school.
“He comes home and lets me know you can’t chat with people you don’t know online, you can’t friend people you don’t know online so it’s really good they teach him that,” Pachesco said.
Robert Young said he’s constantly monitoring his niece’s and nephew’s devices.
“I’m always very skeptical about what they are watching and what they are looking at and I’m always taking their tablets and making sure like, ‘I want you to go outside.’ If I can be with you, I feel like you’re safe with me. So yeah, I’m always watching them,” Young said.
Driscoll said the best apps for kids are ones that do not have messaging abilities.
Kaye Paddyfote is a reporter at FOX61 News. She can be reached at kpaddyfote@fox61.com. Follow her on X and Instagram.
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High School Sports
25 Sports Tuesday
PEORIA (25News Now) -Morton hosted downstate football powers Peoria High, Springfield SH-G, Moline and Williamsville in a fun night of summer prep football. Normal West hosted Pekin, Tri-Valley and Bloomington Central Catholic for 7-on-7 games. You can watch 25News – any newscast, anywhere – streaming LIVE on 25NewsNow.com, our 25News mobile app, and on our […]


PEORIA (25News Now) -Morton hosted downstate football powers Peoria High, Springfield SH-G, Moline and Williamsville in a fun night of summer prep football. Normal West hosted Pekin, Tri-Valley and Bloomington Central Catholic for 7-on-7 games.
You can watch 25News – any newscast, anywhere – streaming LIVE on 25NewsNow.com, our 25News mobile app, and on our WEEK 25News SmartTV streaming app. Learn more about how you can get connected to 25News streaming live news here.
Copyright 2025 WEEK. All rights reserved.
High School Sports
Rash, Whitaker highlight VHSL Class 4 All
King George rising senior Callista Rash and Courtland rising senior Kayden Whitaker were among the local highlights as the Virginia High School League released the Class 4 spring track and field teams on July 13. Both Rash and Whitaker finished second in their respective events, Rash in the girls 400-meter dash final and Whitaker in […]

Both Rash and Whitaker finished second in their respective events, Rash in the girls 400-meter dash final and Whitaker in the boys 100 final.
King George rising senior Callista Rash was named to the VHSL Class 4 all-state team for spring track after a podium finish at states in June.
For Rash, this comes after winning her second state championship during the winter in the girls 500, an incredibly accomplished high school career already that still has a year of time to add on to.
Whitaker also earned all-state honors as a member of Courtland’s state champion 400 relay team. It’s comprised of him, Brayden Bachiller, Daijon Edwards and Anthony Marshall, a group that broke their own school record and earned all-American honors at Adidas Nationals in June.
People are also reading…
Courtland’s state championship-winning 400-meter relay team of left-to-right: Kayden Whitaker, Brayden Bachiller, Daijon Edwards and Anthony Marshall earned VHSL Class 4 all-state honors in spring track.
Rounding out the list is Eastern View’s boys 1,600 relay team: Mason Deluca, Emir Jackson, Mark Lee and Josh Sewordor. They placed third at states.
Courtland’s 400-meter relay team made history at the VHSL Class 4 state meet in June, breaking their own school record en route to a state title.
Alex Murphy amurphy@freelancestar.com
@AlexMurphyJour on X
High School Sports
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