At Valley Crossroads Chamber, we believe in celebrating and supporting our members who are making a real difference — not just in business, but in our communities. As part of our new blog series highlighting community and service-based initiatives, we are proud to feature Mortenson Construction and their incredible 2025 Gold Star Clay Shoot. As we prepare for the 3rd Annual Gold Star Clay Shoot on June 6, 2025 , we want to share the story behind the event — the “why” that drives this meaningful day of honor, remembrance, and service. The Meaning Behind the Gold Star During World War I, families displayed blue star banners in their windows for each immediate family member serving in the armed forces. When a service member died in service, the blue star was replaced with a gold one — a visible, solemn reminder of sacrifice. The Gold Star tradition reminds us that freedom comes at a cost. The Mortenson Construction team has created this event to honor those service members and their families who have given everything for our country. Honoring Marine Cpl. Kyle W. Powell Each year, the Gold Star Clay Shoot honors a Gold Star family to put faces and personal stories to the sacrifice. This year, we are proud to honor the Pfander family and their son, Marine Cpl. Kyle W. Powell . Kyle Powell grew up in Colorado Springs and, as the son of two career Army officers, was deeply rooted in service. After high school, he joined the Marines, completing boot camp in San Diego and training as a Combat Engineer. During deployments to Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Iraq, Kyle distinguished himself as a leader and protector. He completed 120 missions in just seven months and received the Navy Achievement Medal for designing a bunker that saved fellow Marines’ lives. On November 4, 2006, while sweeping for roadside bombs, Kyle was killed by an IED at the age of just 21. You can read more about Kyle’s life here . Kyle’s family will be joining Mortenson and event participants on June 6th to share more about his legacy and to connect with the community that gathers in honor of families like theirs. About the Event The Gold Star Clay Shoot is much more than a sporting event — it’s a chance for our business and local communities to come together in support of something bigger than ourselves. Date: June 6, 2025 Time: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Location: Wasatch Wing & Clay, Cedar Fort, Utah Participants rotate through a series of fun, challenging shooting stations. Whether you are an experienced shooter or trying it for the first time, everyone is welcome. Beyond the shooting competition, the day includes food, prizes, camaraderie, and the opportunity to connect with a great cause. Supporting Our Veterans: American Military Family All proceeds from the event benefit American Military Family , a nonprofit that helps veterans move “from suicidal to successful.” Programs funded by this event include mental health support, career transition training, and community connection efforts — all focused on improving the lives of veterans and their families. Every dollar raised is a powerful step toward changing lives. How You Can Get Involved Register a Team: Whether it’s friends, coworkers, or family — put together a team for a day of fun and service. Sponsor the Event: Gain exposure while giving back. Make a Donation: Even if you can’t attend, you can still make a big difference. Register or Donate Here Why We’re Expanding Our Blog At Valley Crossroads Chamber, we are expanding our blog to highlight more than just business milestones. We want to shine a light on the community-driven outreach efforts, service projects, and incredible causes that our business leaders and Chamber members are championing. When businesses step up to serve, it strengthens all of us — and we believe those efforts deserve to be seen, celebrated, and supported. We are proud to support Mortenson Construction and their leadership in hosting the Gold Star Clay Shoot. If your business is making an impact through service, outreach, or community initiatives, let us know — we would love to spotlight your story next. Together, let’s aim for a purpose, shoot for success, and continue building a stronger, more united community. We’ll see you June 6th!

Congratulations to Arlana's Embroidery and Creations for being named the Valley Crossroads Chamber of Commerce Home-Based Business of the Month for May 2025! Arlana’s Embroidery and Creations has shown exceptional talent and dedication in bringing creativity and craftsmanship to life through custom embroidery and handmade designs. From personalized gifts to unique apparel, Arlana and Randy’s attention to detail and commitment to quality make each piece truly special. Their passion for their work and dedication to customer satisfaction have earned them a loyal following and a respected place in our local business community. We are proud to have Arlana’s Creations and Embroidery as a valued member of our Chamber. Thank you for adding a personal, heartfelt touch to Eagle Mountain and Saratoga Springs! Here's to continued creativity, success, and growth!

Congratulations to Taylor Johnson - State Farm Insurance Agent for being named the Valley Crossroads Chamber of Commerce Business of the Month for May 2025! Taylor Johnson State Farm Insurance has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to serving the community with integrity, professionalism, and personalized care. Their dedication to helping individuals and families protect what matters most—whether it’s home, auto, life, or business insurance—truly sets them apart. Taylor and their team go above and beyond to build lasting relationships and offer dependable support through every stage of life. We are proud to recognize Taylor Johnson State Farm Insurance as a trusted and valued part of our business community. Thank you for your continued service and impact in Eagle Mountain and Saratoga Springs! Here’s to your continued success and growth!

Community Spotlight: Kathie Leany Empowering Utah's Workforce Through Custom Training Solutions

Congratulations to Jensen Pro Construction for being named the Valley Crossroads Chamber of Commerce Home-Based Business of the Month for April 2025! Jensen Pro Construction has become an essential part of the Eagle Mountain community, delivering high-quality craftsmanship and reliable services to homeowners and businesses alike. Their commitment to excellence and attention to detail make them a standout business in our area. We're proud to recognize their hard work, dedication, and positive impact on the local community. Thank you, Jensen Pro Construction, for helping to build a stronger, more vibrant Eagle Mountain! Here's to your continued success and growth!

Congratulations to Aldara Apartments in Saratoga Springs, Utah for being named the Valley Crossroads Chamber of Commerce Business of the Month for April 2025! Aldara Apartments has shown a remarkable commitment to providing quality housing and creating a welcoming environment for all residents. Their dedication to maintaining a safe and comfortable community, while also building strong relationships with neighbors and local businesses, truly sets them apart. We are proud to have Aldara Apartments as a valued member of our community. Thank you for everything you do to enhance the quality of life in Saratoga Springs! Here's to many more years of continued success and growth!

Community Spotlight: Lisa Ferre - Empowering Women with Confidence, Connection, and Care

Congratulations to Eagle Mountain Farmers Market for being named the Valley Crossroads Chamber of Commerce Home-Based Business of the Month for March 2025! Eagle Mountain Farmers Market has proven to be an invaluable resource for the community, providing a place for the community to come together and share their talents. We're proud to recognize their hard work and dedication to the Eagle Mountain area! Thank you, Eagle Mountain Farmers Market, for making a positive impact and contributing to our community's success! Here's to your continued growth and achievement!

Congratulations to Village Pizza for being named the Valley Crossroads Chamber of Commerce Business of the Month for March 2025! Village Pizza has continuously demonstrated outstanding commitment to serving the community and connecting with other businesses. Their dedication to providing high-quality customer service and being a long standing staple of Eagle Mountain sets them apart. We’re proud to have them as a vital part of our community. Thank you Village Pizza, for all you do to help shape the future of Eagle Mountain! Here's to many more years of serving the community!