Freedom Awards Gala

MAJOR BRENT TAYLOR FAMILY:  Brent Taylor was raised in a fiercely patriotic home.  Like his four other siblings, he joined the United States Army National Guard.  To serve his local community, he successfully ran for mayor of North Ogden.  He and his wife, Jennie, teach their seven children that they expect them to find ways to serve and lift those around them.  Also, to be willing to fight for what is right.  Taking leave from his role as mayor, Brent left on his fourth deployment.  It was in Afghanistan that he was killed in the line of duty.  Brent, Jennie, and their children personify the love of God, family, and country.  Brent, along with his family, have courageously and selflessly made this sacrifice together.

CHRISTEL SAWATZE FOREMAN:  Christel Sawatze was born in Germany and recalls a happy childhood.  Things changed with WWII, however.  When it ended, the Red Army took over, pillaging and terrorizing the Germans.  Her family’s farm was burned to the ground.  Her father was put in prison, where he later died.  Christel, age 10, and her brother, age 15, along with their mother hid during the day to avoid capture.  At night they would return to what was left of their farm to dig up the barrels which their father had buried, filled with food and clothing.  Eventually they were able to immigrate to the United States.  Her love of America and gratitude for the freedoms they found here still burn bright.

• Tickets will be $50/person and may be ordered starting Friday, June 1.
• Seating is open (no table assignments except for program participants and their guests).
• Reservations are required.  Tickets will not be available at the door.
• Orders may be placed by phone (801-818-1776) or by going to the Festival office (4626 N. 300 W., Suite 300, Provo).  No online ordering is available.

Firecracker Apple and Citrus Salad

Julienne Apple, Jicama, Citrus Wedges, Diced Tropical Fruit, Tajin Spice

Variety of Rolls Served with Red, White, & Blue Butter

Braised Boneless Beef Short Rib and Fried Chicken

Local Utah Cheddar Grits, Heirloom Carrots, “Buffalo” Roasted Cauliflower,

Broccolini w/Balsamic & Cider Glaze, New Orleans Style Bordelaise Sauce

Banana Fosters Pie

Graham Cracker Pie Shell, Banana Rum Sauce (cooked), Moist Butter Cake Layer, Banana Cream Filling Studded with Banana Cake Cubes, and Cinnamon Brown Sugared Whipped Topping,

Drizzled with Salted Caramel Sauce

Dietary options must be requested at the time of ticket purchase.

Gluten-free options:  Salad as served, Grilled Chicken replacing Fried Chicken,

Fresh Fruit Dessert

Vegetarian option:  Salad as served, Roasted Acorn Squash with

Confetti Vegetables, Fresh Fruit Dessert