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December 2016/January 2017 Vol.16 No.15
UDOT plans to realign awkward intersection in Am. Fork By Linda Petersen
Thanksgiving Point’s “Luminaria: Experience the Light” features more than a million Christmas lights.
Thanksgiving Point’s ‘Luminaria’ much more than holiday light show By Christy Jepson Thanksgiving Point has introduced a new Christmas activity unlike anything in the state. The all new “Luminaria: Experience the Light” is a one-mile walk-through holiday experience through the Ashton Gardens that includes more than a million Christmas lights. In the 26 different-themed areas, guests can enjoy sights, sounds and smells of the holiday season. Walking out of the Visitors Center, guests will see the Tree Top Summit, which is lighted with more than 7,000 luminaries that dance and blink to music. The luminaries all act like a small piece of a picture puzzle that transforms into a flying reindeer, blooming poinsettias and other holiday symbols.
Each lighted luminaria then leads your eye down the hill to the giant 120-foot tree in the middle of the gardens. The hillside color and light show is a great way to welcome guests to this new holiday attraction. Some of the other themed-areas include Snowflake Lane, Reindeer Woods, the Electronic Forest, the Peppermint Patch, Candy Cane Lane, the Glowtanical Garden, Poinsettia Place, the S’mores Village and a new addition to the Light of the World Garden. Within each of these areas, visitors experience different themes with unique holiday music and light displays. Santa’s reindeer are grazing in the hay in the Reindeer Woods as they wait for the big day. The Peppermint Patch has peppermint-smelling bark scattered throughout the path. There are also interactive
games for children and adults near the snack shop. The newly opened Light of the World Garden, which features 15 scenes from the life of Jesus, is now completely lit with lanterns, and each sculpture scene has new lighting and soft holiday music playing to help visitors focus on the real meaning of Christmas. “This is just phase one of the event,” says Josh Berndt, communications director at Thanksgiving Point. “Each year we hope to bring new and different displays to life in this event.” Visitors are encouraged to dress very warm for the event as everything is outside. However, there are several spots throughout the onemile path that have fires and portable heaters See LIGHTS, page A2
UDOT is planning a major realignment of State Street at Main Street and 200 East in American Fork. The project is expected to go out to bid in December or January and construction should begin in early summer of 2017. The .44-mile project, which is expected to take about two months, has been budgeted at $2.5 million, which will cover right-of-way acquisition, utilities, construction and oversight of the project. Currently, Main Street and 200 East tie into State Street at skewed angles close to each other, said UDOT Project Manager Aaron Pinkerton. “The intersection will be realigned to a 90-degree angle, replacing the two roads with a single road where the island is currently located between the two,” he said. The intersection of Main and 200 East could be closed at certain points during the construction. State Street will not close, but lane restrictions are likely. Access to the LDS church near the intersection will be modified with one access being closed and the other widened to make the intersection safer. A signal will also be added at 300 East and State Street. “The road adjacent to Greenwood Service is closing and their access is being modified. Other accesses are being modified slightly due to the widening or safety improvements,” See UDOT, page A2
County, cities discussing future of Canyon Road By Linda Petersen Cedar Hills, Pleasant Grove and Utah County officials are deep in discussions about the future of Canyon Road. It’s a conversation that has been going on for more than 12 years since Canyon Road, originally a state road, was turned over to the county in a swap through which North County Boulevard became a state road and Canyon Road became a county road, according to Pleasant Grove Mayor Mike Daniels. Shortly after, the county approached officials from the two cities about having them assume ownership of the road in the future. Utah County has received a total of $9.3 million in state and federal funds to widen and improve the road to city standards, but county commissioners are not willing to complete all the improvements unless Cedar Hills and Pleasant Grove commit to take the road over in 30 years. Officials in the cities, particularly Cedar
Hills, are concerned with that part of the proposal and say that the cities may not be able to assume that burden. At a Nov. 22 meeting, Cedar Hills Council Member Jenney Rees said that Cedar Hills officials wanted the county to do the improvements before negotiating any transfer of ownership. This would provide city officials time to discuss what options would work for them, she said. But County Commissioner Larry Ellertson said if the cities didn’t sign such an agreement, the county would just fix the road based on county standards, which would be mill and fill for $3.3 million and not the entire project for $9.3 million. At the time of the road swap, UDOT gave the county $3.3 million for maintenance and repairs of the road, which was in poor condition. The county also had funds left over from the North County Boulevard project and earmarked $1.5 million of that for Canyon Road improvements.
Utah County would like Pleasant Grove and Cedar Hills to eventually assume ownership of Canyon Road, but the cities have concerns about that proposal. Subsequently, the cities of Cedar Hills and Pleasant Grove were able to leverage that amount to apply for a matching Mountainland
Association of Governments grant for the road. See ROAD, page A2
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This Christmas, support others in their trials By Emerlie Miller Grandy Yesterday my friend Allison Read Izant laid her sweet baby to rest after a six-month battle with brain cancer. Finn was only 15 months old. Just several months ago, I had the pleasure to make Finn a special first birthday cake. I have shared highlights of his condition and asked for many prayers and donations. As they now grieve their loss, they could still use additional help paying residual medical costs and now funeral costs. I don’t normally share my acts of service, but I asked for a lot of assistance from friends and family to put together a little package for the family and was met with much enthusiasm. My mother-in-law made up a Ravenclaw cloak in honor of Finn. My husband found all the themed treats and also made a little wand, which was placed in Finn’s casket along with other toys. No young wizard should be without his wand! Melece Meservy has been a tremendous help along the way secretly helping me with the details that went into this package. Lara Jean Bécar created a unicorn Patronus photo with a quote from Dumbledore: “To have been loved so deeply, even though the person who loved us is gone, will give us some protection forever.” Finn will continue to love and protect his family and be their guardian just like a Patronus. The Patronus charm can only be conjured up by the happiest of memories. Finn will forever be their happy memories. His sweet and happy spirit touched so many lives during his short time in this world. He was surrounded by nothing but love his entire life. His parents wanted to take him to experience the magic of Harry Potter World but
ROAD Continued from page A1 In the meantime, officials at both cities began to question whether they would actually be able to take on ownership of the road. The Cedar Hills City Council voted against the proposal while Pleasant Grove tabled the issue and has only recently begun looking at it again. Now the county is pressing both cities to sign an agreement before the improvement
UDOT
Continued from page A1 Pinkerton said. American Fork City is chipping in $140,745 from the Main Street Accrual Fund for landscaping and aesthetics in the area including turf, trees, shrubs, sod, shredded
American Fork City has hired a consulting firm to evaluate the possibility of “liquidating” the current fire station and building more small stations. never got the opportunity as he was too sick. It was an honor and pleasure to create this Harry Potter package using so many willing talents. As Christmas is approaching and you scramble around doing last minute shopping, please stop and remember those around you who are especially in need this season. Life is rough. Nobody has it easy. But always remember to count your many blessings and squeeze your loved ones extra tight every day. Remember that Christmas is not about having the most presents under your tree. It should be about doing extra service for those around you to help spread love in this twisted world. Instead of worrying about buying those extra presents before Christmas, please consider donating to this family in need; every little bit helps! You can donate through the website www.youcaring.com/babyfinn or you can send via Venmo to @areadizant. project goes forward. Cedar Hills Councilmember Daniel Zappala is particularly concerned that Cedar Hills will not be able to shoulder the financial responsibility of the road even in 30 years. “That is a lot of pressure to put on a small city like Cedar Hills,” he told county representatives at the Nov. 22 meeting. Zappala said Cedar Hills is currently at 97 percent residential buildout with only two or three lots available for commercial development. Officials concluded the meeting without taking any action. bark, pressurized and drip line irrigation and lighting in the pocket park. This intersection has been in the planning process for several years. *** It seems to me we can never give up longing and wishing while we are thoroughly alive. There are certain things we feel to be beautiful and good, and we must hunger after them. George Eliot
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American Fork looks at possible locations for new city fire stations By Linda Petersen The City of American Fork is doing a study to determine where it would make sense to build one, or possibly more, new fire stations. On Nov. 17, the city council approved a contract with Emergency Services Consulting International for $34,199 to perform the study. In the request for proposals from the city, it asked consultants to consider the “probability of liquidating the current fire station” and the possibility of constructing smaller stations. Currently, American Fork has just one fire
station at 96 N. Center. The study will also look at response times and projected growth along with the current service delivery model before recommendations are made regarding potential locations. Fire Chief Kriss Garcia told the council the city is in need of an additional fire station to “keep up with the demands of the growing city.” Three firms submitted proposals, but ESCI best addressed the needs of the department, he said. The study is expected to take 120 days.
Fires along the way help visitors warm up at Thanksgiving Point’s “Luminaria: Experience the Light.”
LIGHTS Continued from page A1 to help keep guests warm. According to Berndt, Thanksgiving Point needed to reconsider and change the decade-old drive-through Christmas light show anyway because of construction and traffic problems in the area. Two years in the making, the senior management at Thanksgiving
Point met with a company that does other light shows at amusement parks like Busch Gardens and Six Flags, and soon “Luminaria: Experience the Light” was created. Ticket prices are $20 for adults and $17 for seniors and children ages 3-12. Members receive a 10 percent discount during the rest of the season. “Luminaria” is a timed event. To purchase tickets and for more information, visit www. thanksgivingpoint.com. It is open now through Dec. 31 (closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Sundays).
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Vol. 16 No. 15 - Online All the Time - TheCrossroadsJournal.com - December 2016/January 2017 - A3
Another technology firm expands to Silicon Slopes By Linda Petersen The Alpine Youth Council hosted a special evening of food and entertainment to honor Lone Peak first responders.
Youth council honors first responders By Linda Petersen Thirty Lone Peak first responders and their guests were recently treated to a special night by the Alpine Youth Council at the second annual Giving Thanks First Responder Appreciation Dinner. The Lone Peak firefighters and police officers enjoyed a dinner donated by Cubby’s, Cherie Kelly and the Alpine Country Club with dessert provided by Rep. Mike Kennedy. Entertainment was provided by the Lone Peak High School Chamber Choir with a slide show by youth council leaders Caleb Warner and Jaxson Tadje. During the event letters of appreciation
from Gov. Mike Herbert, Rep. Jason Chaffetz and Sen. Mike Lee were read. Rep Kennedy and Alpine Mayor Sheldon Wimmer shared some remarks. Police Chief Bryan Gwilliam and Fire Chief Brad Freeman also spoke and thanked the families who support their departments and the youth council members for the special evening. The first responders were presented with gift baskets donated by local businesses and community members. At the end of the evening, youth council members “spontaneously decided to send the first responders off with a hero’s farewell,” according to Youth Council Adviser Amy Lundquist.
“The council kids formed two parallel lines outside of the exit doors and applauded wildly as each first responder left the event,” she said. “It was very touching to see how much the council kids truly respect the brave men and women who sacrifice every day to keep us safe.” Eighty guests attended the event, which was held Nov. 3 at the Alpine Country Club. Sponsors included Alpine Country Club, Mayor Sheldon Wimmer and the Alpine City Council, Rep. Mike Kennedy, Cherie Kelly, Blenderbottle, the Bank of American Fork Alpine Branch, Whittenburg Insurance and Alpine Family Medicine.
New Am. Fork golf training facility to provide space for BYU student golfers By Linda Petersen The American Fork City Council has approved the development of a golf training facility at Fox Hollow Golf Course. The facility is being built by a nonprofit foundation, Golf Skills Training Center, to provide practice space for Brigham Young University student golfers. “I have an affinity for the student athletes at BYU and they certainly need a place to practice to truly develop their skills,” said foundation president Michael Acton, a South Jordan businessman. Acton has enjoyed a lifelong friendship with coach Brock Brockbank and has known the other coaches, including women’s team coach Carrie Roberts, for many years, he said. The facility will be located on 5.23 acres of American Fork City-owned land in the north-
ern area of the gold course (just east of the pressurized irrigation reservoir). Fox Hollow Golf Course is located at 1400 N. 200 East in American Fork. Acton said along with his partner James Pritchard, he has worked closely with many members of the golfing community to make the training center happen. He praised local city leaders for their help in bringing the project forward. The group has already cleared 2.25 acres and put in practice greens and fairways for the athletes. The facility is expected to be 20,000 to 25,000 square feet in size and will house a 10,425-square-foot building with a chip/putt area, offices, a lounge, restrooms, swing bays and storage space. There will be an outdoor practice area south of the building. Mustang
AF City offers holiday advice, information By Matthew Gary Milam American Fork City is reminding residents to take care to avoid something people usually don’t think about during this wet and cold time of the year: home fires. Usually a topic for the warmer months of the year, fires during the holidays are more common that most people realize. They are also more costly and deadly. To keep your family and property safe this season, the following tips will be useful. First, don’t leave your cooking unattended. With more meals being cooked during the cold, indoor months, and especially during the holidays, this is important advice. Second, keep your live Christmas tree watered and make sure to dispose of it properly no more than four weeks after purchase. Third, be careful with decorative Christmas lights by inspecting them before hanging them and not connecting more than three strands together. Also, use hooks and hangers instead of staples, which can damage the wire. For more information, go to www.houselogic.com/ home-thoughts/holiday-fire-safety-tips/. AF City also reminds residents of the holiday trash pickup schedule. For the weeks of Christmas and New Year’s Day, schedules will remain the same with specific pickup days as they normally occur on other weeks of the year. The usual one-day delay will not be in effect for this year. Also, Christmas trees must be out on the curb for pickup by 7 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 16. Trees will be picked up between Jan.16 and Jan. 20. Looking far ahead into the new year, Steel Days has been set for July 6 through July 15. So far, the contract with the carnival has been signed. Events occurring at the American Fork
Library during December include: Monday, Dec. 19: Christmas in the Rotunda - American Fork Children’s Choir Tuesday, Dec. 20: Christmas in the Rotunda - Violin Concert Thursday, Dec. 22: Library closes early at noon Wednesday, Dec. 22: Library closes at noon Friday, Dec. 23-26: Library closed Dec. 31: Library closes at 2 p.m. A CPR certification class will be taught on Thursday, Dec. 22, at the American Fork Fire/ Rescue Department located at 96 N. Center. Call 801-763-3045 for more information.
David Bunker has been named as the new city administrator for American Fork City. He is a native of American Fork with more than 20 years of experience, including extensive experience in municipal government, engineering and public works. He will begin work on Jan. 3, 2017.
Designs is the architect and Civil Science is doing the engineering on the project. Since the majority of the students will be bused in, there will be minimal parking at the site. Eventually, it will be accessed through the future Monroe Corridor. Construction of the building is expected to begin next spring, Acton said. The training center will not generally be open to the public. “We can’t and don’t want to compete against Fox Hollow and its programs,” Acton said. However, the facility will open its doors at various times for charity community events, he said.
Womply, a developer of business marketing tools, among which is a product that provides Groupon-like discounts to consumers, is coming to Lehi, which is known as the home of Utah’s Silicon Slopes. On Nov. 10, Womply and the Governor’s Office of Economic Development announced that the San Francisco-based company will expand to Lehi. The Womply project will create up to 175 jobs over the next five years. “We are thrilled to be expanding into Utah County and to tap into the great pool of local talent,” said Cory Capoccia, president of Womply, in a press release. “We aim to build a lasting presence in the area, and we are hiring aggressively for sales, operations, engineering and other critical roles to accelerate and support our already industry-leading growth.” The project is expected to generate up to $100,000 in capital investment. GOED Executive Director Val Hale said Utah beat out several other markets because of its “high-caliber workforce.” “Lehi City is excited to have another strong tech company join our community,” said Lehi Mayor Bert Wilson. “Womply will join companies like Adobe, Oracle, Nuvi and Xactware that have relocated to Lehi in recent years, expanding what has come to be known as Silicon Slopes.” Founded in San Francisco in 2011, Womply uses technology and data to grow, protect and simplify small business. The company provides on a subscription basis a suite of business monitoring, analytics, and marketing tools that help merchants manage their businesses more easily and get more customers. For example, Womply provides complete monitoring and management of online reviews from sites such as Google and TripAdvisor. Womply is also the leading technology partner to the credit card processing industry. The exact Lehi location for the expansion will be determined at a future date.
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Lehi City offers advice for a hassle-free winter By Matthew Gary Milam
Pleasant Grove resident Easton Shane has signed with Heritage Guitars Inc. as one of their Young Endorsed Artists. He is the youngest artist ever to be endorsed by the company.
North county resident named Young Endorsed Artist by Heritage Guitars By Rebecca Christiansen Easton Shane, a former resident who spent his first nine years growing up in Eagle Mountain, is a singer/songwriter best known for his crazy socks, mad guitar skills and creating a unique upbeat twist on alternative pop/rock. Currently a resident of Pleasant Grove, Easton Shane has officially signed with Heritage Guitars Inc. as one of their Young Endorsed Artists. At just 13, Easton Shane is the youngest artist to be endorsed by the company, which prides itself on its custom handcrafted guitars. Heritage Guitars Inc. is based out of Kalamazoo, Mich., and has been in business for more than 30 years. Easton Shane has been playing the guitar since he was 4 years old. He began playing the guitar as a way of coping with his father’s deployment to Iraq in 2007. Now, nine years later, Easton has won the National 2016 Downbeat Soloist Award for Downbeat Magazine in the Blues/Pop/Rock Junior High Division for his guitar-playing abilities. At an early age, Easton began performing
solo and with different bands. One of his first performances was at Eagle Mountain’s Poly Express Days celebration at Nolan Park with his band Blackout8. He has since formed his own band, BEKM, with other young musicians ages 8 to 16. In addition, Easton plays in the advanced jazz band at his school and with Caleb Chapman Soundhouse of American Fork. He is also a member of the award-winning, Best of State organization One Voice Children’s Choir. He has participated in music videos with the Soundhouse, Alex Boye, Peter Hollens, Vocal Point and OVCC. Easton just released his first single, “Anything But No,” with music producer Greg Hansen, also a resident of Eagle Mountain. The catchy love song layers both acoustic and electric sounds to create a unique style all Easton’s own. You will definitely be seeing more from this young teen sensation. The song is available for download on iTunes, Amazon, CDbaby, YouTube and Spotify. For more information, upcoming performances and links to his social media, visit www.eastonshane.com.
Lehi City Mayor Bert Wilson, in looking forward to the coming winter months, recently had this to say: “We have had exceptional weather this fall, but I’m hoping for some moisture soon. I would love to see the mountain peaks with deep snow, both for the skiers and for our water supply next year.” As for more pragmatic matters, however, when it comes to the potential snow fall this winter, Wilson said, “Snow in the valleys keeps our Street Division (very) busy plowing Lehi roads.” According to Wilson, after a snowstorm occurs in Lehi there are 484 lane miles to plow (the equivalent of driving to Cedar City and back). Add to this that after multiple passes, Lehi snow crews average 4,000 lane miles during a storm. The mayor said that residents waiting for the snowplows to get to their neighborhoods need to keep in mind that the snowplows are “somewhere between here and Cedar City” and try to be patient. Besides being patient, there are other things everyone can do to make sure Lehi snowplows don’t have any more difficult a job clearing roads than necessary. Following are some tips from Lehi City that will help ensure that the snowplows get to everyone as quickly and as safely as possible. First of all, keep the roads clear during and after a storm by moving cars off the street and putting away trash cans as soon as possible. These obstacles can hinder snowplows and cause unnecessary delays. Another important piece of advice is to avoid passing a snowplow. It’s not a very safe thing to do. Another concern (well, actually, complaint), residents often have, Wilson said, has do with the pileup that often occurs as snowplows clear streets. It can be very frustrating, no doubt, when after working hard to clear your driveway of snow, a snowplow comes along and piles up a bunch of new snow, requiring you to perform a difficult task all over again. In response to this complaint, Wilson asked that residents try to be patient
Lehi Mayor Bert Wilson and understanding when this happens. The seemingly unfortunate snow pileup is simply the by-product of having Lehi’s streets clear of snow and safe for driving. Lehi City would also like residents and visitors to be aware that the streets division begins with roads that receive the most traffic and then moves on to plow residential areas. Also, parking on city streets during or for 24 hours after a snowstorm is against Lehi City municipal code. Parking on a city street is prohibited from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. from Nov. 1 to March 30. Keep these tips in mind so that this winter can be as hassle-free as possible for everyone. Also, if you’re so inclined to do so, Mayor Wilson also advises that if you appreciate the great job the Lehi snow crews do, don’t be afraid to wave to them to show your appreciation. For information on snow removal priorities and resident responsibilities, check out the Snow Removal Brochure online at www. lehi-ut. gov/departments/public-works/streets.
Cedar Hills council ends moratorium, again allows renewable energy systems By Linda Petersen After a three-month moratorium, the Cedar Hills City Council has passed an ordinance once again allowing ground-mounted renewable energy systems such as solar into the city. At the time of the moratorium, city officials said they wanted to study the issue and put an ordinance in place that would address these systems and ensure they would not be a nuisance. Prior to that, there had been just one application for a ground-mounted solar system and, because there was no ordinance in place, it had to be addressed as an accessory building. On Nov. 15, the city council passed the new ordinance, which is based on an existing West Jordan ordinance. The ordinance covers only wind and solar systems, setting out the submittal process for building permits. Under the ordinance, the zoning administrator is expected to consider the proximity of the system to homes; possible
negative impacts such as noise, shadow flicker, low frequency vibrations and disruption of scenic views; and the look of the system including height, wind vanes, color, type, size and visibility of the system before issuing a permit. Sound produced by turbines can be no louder than 65 decibels at the property line except during severe storms. No signage or lighting of the tower is allowed and the owner must make “reasonable efforts” to avoid disruption of radio, phone, TV or Internet signals. The height of towers for wind energy systems cannot exceed 20 feet in residential zones and the base of the towers and turbine blades must be set back at least 10 feet from all other structures on the same property. *** Believe in yourself! Have faith in your abilities! Without a humble but reasonable confidence in your own powers you cannot be successful or happy. - Norman Vincent Peale
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Christmas in Color drive-through show entertains eyes, ears Lehi senior citizens can enjoy a variety of activities starting in January 2017.
By Christy Jepson
If you are looking for a Christmas activity but are not willing to brave the nighttime winter temperatures, go to Christmas in Color, a spectacular drive-through holiday light show at its new Provo location. This one-mile long light show is more than just a few holiday scenes here and there with blinking red and green lights. Christmas in Color is a light show that is made up of a million lights that are synchronized to music and is all about color, rhythm, dancing lights and fun holiday music. With each beat of the music, the lights come alive and start dancing right in front of your eyes. The Provo location is in the Utah Lake State Park campground, pavilion and parking lot areas. From now until Christmas Eve, the state park will be transformed into a sea of Christmas color. We had several “favorites” at Christmas in Color. My kids loved all the tunnels, the singing snowmen, all the lighted trees that instantly changed color when the rhythm changed with each measure of the song, the snowflake arches and the energetic holiday music. A family business, Christmas in Color opened in Kearns last year and this year added its new location in Provo. “My favorite part is seeing children go through with their heads out the sunroof pointing and smiling and having a wonderful time. Our company creates family entertainment that is good. We get great satisfaction from the enjoyment our customers have in this experience,” said Ryan Davis, owner of Christmas
Lehi City Senior Center announces 2017 activities in Color. According to Davis, this family business all started when he began talking to Richard Holdman, who had a fascination with Christmas lighting. In fact, Holdman started programming lights as a way to raise money for local charities. Holdman decorated and programmed his own house and then made a video of it and posted it on YouTube, attracting 30 million hits. Since then, Holdman has programmed light shows back East. Davis and Holdman were talking one summer about his light shows he had created and then decided to team up and create these holiday light shows in Utah. Tickets can be purchased at www.christmasincolor.net. Tickets are for a specific block of time to help with the traffic flow. If you order online, ticket prices are $21.95 Monday through Thursday. If you pay at the gate, ticket prices are $26. Prices for Friday and Saturday nights and the dates of Dec. 19 through 24 are $25.95 online and $32 at the gate. The price is per vehicle.
Marvel gets a little stranger By Kimberly Bennett The Marvel Cinematic Universe just got a little stranger with its latest movie, “Doctor Strange.” Based on the comic book, the movie follows the adventures of Doctor Stephen Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch), a brilliant neurosurgeon who thrives on intelligence, arrogance and an uncompromising belief in his own abilities. When Strange is severely injured in a devastating accident, he goes on a quest to restore the use of his hands, seeking to reclaim his life as a renowned surgeon. After exhausting every possibility known to Western medicine, Strange forsakes fellow surgeon and former girlfriend Christine (Rachel McAdams) in order to seek out mystical forces in Kathmandu, Nepal. Though skeptical at first, Strange soon learns that there is such a thing as magic spells. Through the help of The Ancient One (Tilda Swinton) and friend/mentor Mordo (Chiwetel Ejiofor), Strange masters the mystical arts. Little does he know that he is about to be thrown into a war where he will fight for the fate of the entire human race. Though doubtless an adventure for those who are familiar with the comic book, “Doctor Strange” is still fun for the casual sci-fi fan and anyone who loves the MCU. The story is engaging and mysterious, and, true to the example set by other MCU films, “Doctor Strange” delivers in humor in the form of quips and one-liners. With a universe full of magical mayhem and reality-altering events, “Doctor Strange” has been given the opportunity to geek out and show off in a way other films in the MCU have not been able to explore. Not only do we gain insight into the multi-verse that plays so directly into the story line, the audience is also given a glimpse into the depths of human imagination and innovation evident in the mind-bending and breathtaking special effects. Because reviews are obligated to point out flaws, here is the obligatory “this could have been better paragraph.” Though wonderfully portrayed by Mads Mikkelsen, the antagonist, Kaecillius, and his cult of zealots seemed to serve mostly as a way to build character arcs rather than an impressionable threat. But other than that and Benedict Cumberbatch’s lessthan-perfect American accent (but with a voice like that, do we really care?), the film was a visual and entertaining delight. The best surprise of the film was Wong (Benedict Wong), the taciturn librarian at the sanctuary in Kathmandu who packs a humorous punch in the forms of monosyllabic zingers that give even the egotistical Doctor Strange a run for his money.
Entertaining characters, plenty of intrigue, and hints for what is to come, “Doctor Strange” is a hit you’ll be sure to love and a successful addition to the MCU. Remember, because this is a Marvel movie, there Photo from Marvel.com are two extra Benedict Cumberbatch scenes after stars in Marvel’s “Dr. the movie Strange.” ends, so be sure to stay all the way through the credits to fully experience the fun of this exciting film.
The Lehi Senior Center will be starting up a few new programs - and continuing a few of the old - starting in January of 2017. The senior center will continue to have line dancing (no partner needed) every Friday from 10 to 11 a.m. starting Jan. 6. The Senior Book Club will meet again Jan. 5 from 10 to 11 a.m.; seniors interested in attending are encouraged to read “Light Between Oceans” by M.L. Stedman. New programs starting January will include a Family History Class, a Meditation Class and a Fall Prevention Workshop. Family History class will give seniors the opportunity to find their roots and study their ancestors. The class will be taught by a Lehi senior resident who has taught family history for many years. The class will meet on Tuesdays at 12:40 p.m. (right after lunch) starting Jan. 3. The class is free for senior center members and $5 for nonmembers. Call to register. The Senior Meditation and Mindfulness Class will allow seniors to get in touch with their inner being to promote mindfulness. Meditation is proven to increase health and
mental capacity through meditated breathing practices and visualization techniques. The class will be taught by a volunteer senior who is certified in Meditation Training. The class will meet on Wednesdays at 1 p.m. starting Jan. 25 and will meet for five weeks. The class is free for senior center members and $5 for nonmembers. Call to register. Join the seniors at the Fall Prevention and Balance Workshop on Wednesday, Jan. 25, at 1:30 p.m. Rehab directors and physical therapists from Valeo Home Health & Hospice will present at 1 p.m. in the Senior Center. No RSVP is required to attend this presentation, just show up. Valeo will present suggestions to improve safety in the home and give seniors exercises they can do to improve balance. This is a great class for the slippery winter season. Those interested can call Jessie Jones, the senior program coordinator, at 385-201-2349 or email her at jjones@lehi-ut.gov. More classes will continue to be announced; contact Jones to receive the monthly newsletter and stay informed.
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Support building the Murdock Connector By Robert Shelton
Northern Utah County has seen explosive growth over the years. This growth has brought many east/west roads in the area to capacity, leading to the concern for emergency personnel to respond in an efficient manner. With the lack of east/west transportation connectivity, it is finally time to build the Murdock Connector. The three-lane connector road has been on the Highland City transportation master plan since 1980 and would connect the Alpine Highway to Utah County Blvd. Currently the only expeditious ways to travel east and west in that area of the county are to head miles north to the Timpanogos Highway or miles south to State Street in American Fork. Regional transportation money was approved years ago to build the road by Utah County and other government entities.
The project was also approved in 2014 by the state legislature to build on state property owned by the Utah State Developmental Center. The Daily Herald reported earlier this year: “Politics and a revamped process in 2015 dictated Highland representatives needed to go back for state approval, only this time in front of USDC board members. This less-than-a-mile road would cut five miles off an ambulance trip to American Fork Hospital from the south Highland area. American Fork City has unanimously approved a resolution in support of this road. To sign a petition supporting the road, go to www.change. org/p/utah-state-legislature-support-building-the-murdock-connector. It is anticipated that many other cities will soon be joining in through resolutions of their own. Join in supporting the resolutions to build the connector and let the USDC board and the state legislature hear your voice today.
Saturday, Dec. 17, was Shop with a Cop day in Utah County. Lone Peak Police had several officers take time out of their own schedules to participate. This is an awesome program where officers share their time to get to know some of the kids in the area and take them shopping for something special for their families’ Christmases.
Local resident Richard Stark is encouraging others to perform acts of service and then share their experiences with him.
Local man encouraging others to perform service By Kristina Stark
Richard Stark is a local hard-working father of six who has been in the real estate industry for five-plus years now. “I have always loved finances and numbers,” Stark said. “I can remember every phone number and address I have had my entire life. My wife will even time me in the grocery store to see how quick I can calculate which item is cheaper per ounce.” Because of his love of numbers, Stark is a mortgage banker providing home loans and refinances for people from all walks of life. “I love my job. I have the wonderful privilege of meeting and getting to know so many people every day,” Stark said. Over time, this privilege began to weigh on his mind until one day he realized the opportunity that lay before him. Unlike most people who go to work and mingle with the same people every day, Stark quickly realized that his sphere of influence was much larger than most. “I have the opportunity to touch and help and make better so many lives that I had to do something more,” he said. Stark has started a project that he simply calls “Serving with Richard.” “If I ask each person I know, friends, family, co-workers, people I have worked with, to do one act of service, then that is at least 200 people that would be served,” he said. So that is just what he is doing. Stark is asking everyone he knows to perform one act of service during
the months of December and January - but it doesn’t stop there. When asked what his goal is with this project, he responded, “Five hundred people. I want to bring joy through service to 500 people.” You may be wondering, for a guy who does finances and numbers, how does asking 200 people to do one act of service add up to 500 people being served? “Because I am also asking them to invite their friends and family to do one act of service. Just think of all the good that could be done,” he said. And after witnessing the excitement in his eyes, it is hard not to picture it. When asked how he expects to keep track of how much service has been done, he responded that he is asking all those who perform service to share it with him through Facebook, email or a simple text message. “Think of all the joy that will be felt by those who are serving and those who are being served. Let us give the gift of joy!” he said. If you would like to participate in the project “Serving with Richard,” simply go and do one act of service and then encourage all your friends, family, and others in your life to do the same. You can let Richard know of the joy you have felt and your service through Facebook by adding the hashtag #swRichard to your post, e-mailing him at richard@ securityhomemortgage.com, or texting him at 385-231-5367. “Thank you for serving with me,” he said.
AF Fitness Fair planned Jan. 14 The American Fork Fitness Center will hold its annual Fitness Fair on Saturday, Jan. 14, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. During that time there will be hourly prizes, local vendors, demonstrations and more. Admission is free the entire day. The fitness center is located at 454 N. Center. During the fair, the fitness center will be offering a steal of a deal for next year’s season passes. Annual passes will be on sale for 14 percent to 23 percent off. There will be discounts on all pass types including family passes, which will be $100 off.
This will apply to residents and non-residents. Seniors ages 60 and older don’t need to wait for Jan. 14 to purchase tickets. Rather, they can purchase their pass for the discounted prices anytime between now and Jan. 14. This offer does not include monthly payments or an additional discount on sale prices. Contact the fitness center for more information at www.afcity.org or by calling 801-763-3084.
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Lone Peak PD goes bearded for a good cause By Linda Petersen If you think police officers from the Lone Peak Police Department are looking a little hairier than normal, you might be right. However, it’s not a lapse in department standards. Instead, it’s a novel way to raise funds to send a veteran back to Washington, D.C., on the Utah Honor Flight. The Honor Flight Network is a nonprofit organization created to honor veterans for all their sacrifices. It transports veterans to Washington, D.C., to visit the memorial of their branch of service without charge to the veterans. All costs are covered by donations. For the duration of the Lone Peak program (November to February), officers can pay $20 a month for a “beard permit” that allows them to sport a neatly trimmed beard or goatee. While male officers who pay for the “permit” can grow facial hair, there’s definitely limits, said Brian J. Gwilliam, Lone Peak police chief. “We’re not allowing Fu Manchu looks or crazy pink hair with sideburns, for example,” he said. Female officers or administrative and clerical staff (who are normally uniformed) can pay the same amount to enjoy dress-down months.
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The money generated will help Lehi resident and Korean War veteran Airman 1st Class Reldon E. Barnes travel to Washington, D.C., to visit the Korean War Memorial. Barnes enlisted in the Air Force in 1952 at the age of 19 and actively served at Headquarters Far East Air Force in Tokyo in the Classified Message Center for two years during the Korean War. Gwilliam said they tried to find a veteran in Highland or Alpine to send, but they couldn’t find anyone able to go. “They’re all in their mid-90s now and not real interested in leaving home anymore, which I can totally understand,” he said. “Each and every one told me, ‘There’s someone more deserving than me who should have the opportunity to go.’” Among those who felt that way was Barnes. “It was only when I asked him to think about going for those that can’t that he was willing to accept this opportunity,” Gwilliam said. This year, 15 Lone Peak officers are participating in the program and the department hopes to raise $900 to make Barnes’ trip possible. While the department has used this method
Through February, members of the Lone Peak Police Department can buy “beard permits,” with the money raised going to help veterans. to raise funds for other community organizations, this is the first time the funds raised will go to the Utah Honor Flight, Gwilliam said. “It seemed to create a lot more personal connection,” he said. “Everyone is so excited to do something for a veteran who served our
country so honorably.” The Honor Flight leaves its mark on all participants. “I thought the spirit of patriotism was lost in America. It isn’t – it’s just hiding out a little bit,” one participant said of the program.
4-H Ambassadors organize project to aid refugees By Wendy Visser Lojik
During this time of the year, people often look for ways to serve others. In that spirit, Utah County 4-H Teen Ambassadors recently organized a service project to help refugees in their area. Utah County 4-H Teen Ambassadors are youth in grades 9-12 who are selected to represent Utah County 4-H. They develop and use leadership skills to provide programs and service to the Utah County 4-H Program. Ambassadors for 2016-2017 are Joshua Boothe of American Fork, Jerod Boley of Saratoga Springs, Autumn Olsen of Springville and Angelica Coca, Gabriela Coca, Ann Elgaaen and Jane Smith of Provo.
The Ambassadors, along with their adult advisors, brainstormed many different service project ideas, but they all knew they wanted to do something to help the refugee community during the winter and holiday season. The teens discussed ways to reach the most people and devised the Holiday Stocking Service Project. Ambassadors had roles in the project including deciding on the stocking pattern, sending the pattern to the members of 4-H Clubs and writing letters to local businesses asking for donations. All ambassadors approached businesses and people for donations. The Ambassadors worked with the Utah Refugee Connection to help distribute donated items because the organization serves
70 percent of all refugees in Utah. Utah County 4-H contacted members about the service project via social media and in its monthly newsletter. Many 4-H clubs spent time sewing stockings or bags to hold the collected donations that came from individuals and businesses from all over Utah County - from Eagle Mountain to Highland to Santaquin. On Dec. 6, the teens set up an assembly line for the stockings and hoped people would show up. People came from all over Utah County bringing stockings and other items and more than 118 volunteers – adults, youth and even toddlers – showed up to help stuff the stockings. When it was all done, there were 2,284 items donated and 351 stockings. More
than 200 volunteer hours were invested in the service project. Among the items donated were 418 toothbrushes and toothpaste, 423 winter hats, 124 pairs of gloves, 200 packages of dental floss, 272 small toys, 148 pencils, 36 blankets (including 32 handmade afghans), 84 deodorants and 23 jars of Play-Doh. Utah County 4-H was able to purchase 100 new winter coats of all sizes through grant funds. These coats and all of the stockings will go to refugee children and adults. For more information about helping refugees in Utah, find the Utah Refugee Connectionon Facebook. For more information about 4-H, check out UtahCounty4-H.org or contact the office at 801-851-8470.
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Veterans benefit from equine therapy at Warrior Camp By Matthew Gary Milam In these days of government-funded therapy dogs for college students who need help “coping” with national election results, it’s soothing to the soul to hear about a program that helps our country’s active duty military and veterans who actually suffer real trauma in defending our country and the world. Three Willows Counseling of Cedar Fort recently hosted a “Warrior Camp” that helped women and men of the armed forces deal with the physical and emotional trauma they have sustained through their heroic service at home and abroad. Three Willows counseling takes a unique approach to fostering mental and emotional health by providing not only the guidance of professional counselors, but also the fourlegged therapeutic assistance of horses. Three Willows also provides counseling that helps families improve their communication and relationships. Three Willows Counseling hosted the Warrior Camp event to help veterans who, because of their unique individual experiences and traumas, needed to be with other veterans to help maximize their therapy. The week-long Warrior Camp provided an opportunity for active duty and veteran military women and men to gather together to share their common and individual experiences with each other under the supervision and therapy of counselors and horses. According to Three Willows personnel,
veterans not only received help coping with physical disabilities and emotional challenges stemming from military service and combat situations, they also received help coping with their everyday lives. “They are given the support and skills needed to heal from their experiences at no cost to the veteran,” according to Three Willows personnel. At the Warrior Camp, veterans were given a therapy known as “equine assisted psychotherapy” As one veteran put it, “I was having a really bad day, but then you brought in Annie (a large draft-cross horse) and everything changed.” Another veteran explained the equine therapy experience by saying, “It’s like he is my guide through the therapy process.” According to counselors, neither riding nor horsemanship instruction is provided, yet there is “healing, understanding and growth” nonetheless. During this year’s Warrior Camp, veterans and staff were greeted by Special Forces and Utah National Guard members who jumped from a UH- 60 Blackhawk helicopter. Major General Jefferson Burton was in attendance and had the opportunity to observe an equine session with the veterans. Three Willows Counseling hosted the event, but many others contributed to its success. Camp Williams provided housing during the retreat and Special Courses catered the meals. Lee Brown of Brown Realty provided the arena for the event. Horses for the event were provided by not only Three Willows, but also by Janet Wyman and Kim Shaffer of
On Saturday, Dec. 3, Lantis Fireworks, located just south of the Camp Floyd Cemetery, sponsored its annual Christmas in the Night Sky. This is a fun-filled event provided for the community. Families bundled up to enjoy fireworks, food, family and friends around campfires. The price for admittance was an unwrapped toy or cash donation that will stay in our community to benefit those that need help this holiday season. Santa was there for children to visit. This yearly event is one of the best firework shows of the year. Lantis is a local firework production company located in Fairfield that provides and end-of-year celebration for all to enjoy. Each year, family and friends to help support those less fortunate while enjoying the Christmas in the Night Sky firework show.
Three Willows Counseling of Cedar Fort hosted a “Warrior Camp” to help men and women of the armed forces deal with trauma they experienced through their service. Rush Valley. Also, volunteers from two Army Reserve units helped prepare the camp and provided supplies. Cross Fit at the Point used profits from a fundraiser to donate to the camp. Financial donations were also provided by many others. Participants at Warrior Camp had the opportunity to say goodbye at the end of the week by attending a dinner at the Officer’s
Club at Camp Williams. Each veteran was provided with a hoof pick to remind them not to “let the hard stuff build up in your lives, continue to care for your needs, clean out the debris.” One veteran who benefited from the event summed up the experience by saying, “This was a life-changing program.” Three Willows Counseling can be contacted at 801-766-8133.
The Ranches Academy Charter Elementary School recently held a fundraising event to raise money for its school library expansion. The school plans other fundraising activities this year as well.
Ranches Academy hosts fundraiser for library The Ranches Academy Charter Elementary School Fundraising Committee in Eagle Mountain was excited to hold its Ranches Academy Holiday Fundraiser on Dec. 10. All proceeds earned from this fundraiser went to benefit the school’s library expansion. Money raised will go toward books, furniture, a Lego wall and a research area. A breakfast was served and pictures with Santa, craft time, story time with Santa’s elves and a silent auction were all part of the event. Students and families donated items for the silent auction including gift baskets with Brigham Young University and University of Utah themes, Village Pizza gift certificates, Grizzlies tickets and two Jet Blue plane tickets. Local businesses showed support by donating several items. Charter schools are considered their own
district and must do their own fundraising separate from the local districts to provide for any construction. Ranches has an excellent track record of only building or expanding with funds they currently have, taking no major loans. Through these current fundraising efforts, they hope to continue that and provide an excellent library for their students. “We have several other activities planned for the school year and look forward to including the community,” said Heather Baker, the fundraising chair. *** Your attitude is like a box of crayons that color your world. Constantly color your picture gray, and your picture will always be bleak. Try adding some bright colors to the picture by including humor, and your picture begins to lighten up. - Allen Klein
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Bid awarded for improvements at Cory B. Wride Memorial Park in Eagle Mountain By Matthew Gary Milam
In December’s Eagle Mountain city council meeting, S&L Inc. was awarded a contract to begin improvements at Cory Wride Memorial Park, with completion expected by June 30, 2017. The bid was awarded in the amount of $2.2 million for major improvements to the park, whose namesake gave his life in the performance of his police duty in January of 2014. The improvements to the park will include a parking lot, a building which will house a restroom as well as a concessions area, a plaza and baseball dugouts. The project will also include scoreboards. At the council meeting, there was discussion of whether or not the new concession/ restroom building would have a specific color theme. Eagle Mountain Mayor Christopher Pengra said the building would indeed have a color theme. According to Parks Director Brad Hickman, the colors will be designed to coordinate with monuments already located along the Pony Express Trail. Shade structures will also be built for the park. They will be designed to be taken down during the winter months to help lengthen the durability of the structures, which are rated for a 20-year life expectancy. S&L Inc. is said to be anxious to begin the project and its representatives feel confident they will be able to meet the proposed deadline. The bid was awarded to S&L Inc. by a unanimous vote by the city council.
Above is a rendering showing planned improvements at Cory B. Wride Memorial Park.
Thousands of stuffed animals donated for at-risk kids By Wendy Visser Lojik Thousands of Utah children visit local crisis centers each year. These at-risk children may be the victims of abuse or neglect, their homes may be unlivable, or their parents may be unable to take care of their children. One family came to a center without shoes — the spouse of the abused wife and children was suspicious when they would leave home with their shoes on, so they showed up to a crisis center in the snowy winter without shoes so they would have a better chance of getting away from their scary situation. So, who is taking care of Utah’s at-risk children? Spanish Fork teen Kameron Snarr has a passion for off-road racing motorcycles and for helping children in need. Sandy Dubois can be found at Bank of American Fork before it opens; she is usually the last to leave and started Project Teddy Bear 17 years ago to help children. Twelve-year-old Kylie wanted to do a service project and collected 284 stuffed animals to donate to Project Teddy Bear. Three-year-old Hazel even participated using the coins she earned by doing extra chores at home to purchase a soft pig for a child “who doesn’t have anything to cuddle at night.” Our communities are made up of Kamerons, Sandys and Kylies. Each year, Utah communities and individuals pull together to collect and donate stuffed animals for Project Teddy Bear, a drive that collects stuffed animals and donates them to Utah crisis centers. While crisis centers always need donations of necessities like shampoo, clothing and food, another — often unmet — need is that of something to help children feel support and love. Stuffed animals are used in play therapy, to soothe an upset child or to help children feel love and comfort.
The Bank of American Fork recently presented 7,918 teddy bears and other stuffed animals to three family support centers in Salt Lake, Utah and Davis counties as part of the bank’s 17th annual Project Teddy Bear. More than 118,547 stuffed animals have been donated since Project Teddy Bear began. “Last year, a student in a local school was hit by a car and died. The Family Support and Treatment Center was able to give stuffed animals to each of the students in that child’s class to help give comfort at a hard time,” said Scott Snow, executive director for The Family Support and Treatment Center in Orem. “Thank you for helping us help those kids.” “The goal is to give the kids a feeling of being taken care of. We knew we couldn’t change their circumstances completely, but we wanted to help them feel like someone is taking care of them,” said Tracey Kramer, a loan processor at Bank of American Fork who used to work in The Family Support Center’s Midvale crisis nursery. Kramer worked in the center from Sunday evening through Wednesday where they looked for signs of abuse and made sure the children had three hot meals and a bath. “It’s rewarding work,” Kramer said. The stuffed animals were donated by customers and community members and will benefit children who have been abused, are at risk of being abused, or have experienced other traumatic situations. Bank of American Fork attributes the huge number of donated toys to the extraordinary efforts of the young people and children who helped collect them. It’s truly children helping children. At a presentation that took place at the bank’s headquarters in American Fork this morning, Richard Beard, president and CEO of Bank of American Fork, presented the bears to the Salt Lake County Family Support Center, the Utah Valley Family Support &
The Bank of American Fork presented nearly 8,000 stuffed animals to three family support centers as part of Project Teddy Bear. Treatment Center and the Family Connection Center in Clearfield. Beard recognized some of the stand-out givers this year, including: · Bingham High School: Bingham High collected 125 stuffed animals thanks in part to student body president Tyler, who invited students to bring a stuffed animal for entrance into the annual talent show instead of the typical monetary entrance fee.
· American Fork High School Marching Band: Students, parents and faculty donated time to put together boxes, pack up all the stuffed animals and sort the boxes to prepare for tomorrow’s delivery by Bailey’s Moving and Storage. · Spanish Fork Letterman’s Club: Collected nearly 2,000 stuffed animals this year. Spanish Fork Letterman’s Club has participated in Project Teddy Bear for 11 years, collecting more than 15,000 stuffed animals to date. This year they involved Canyon Elementary School. · Baileys Moving & Storage: Provided all of the boxes, labor and a large moving truck to deliver teddy bears to the three support centers. “An important mission of community banks is caring for those among us who are most vulnerable,” said Beard. “I want to thank the people in our communities, especially the kids. We have needs in our own communities here in Utah and we are honored to help facilitate helping in this way.” The bears will be transported and delivered to each of the centers thanks to a generous donation of equipment and labor by Bailey’s Moving and Storage.
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Jiffy Lube opens new location in Eagle Mtn.
Bryce Media has been named the Lehi Area Chamber of Commerce’s Business of the Month for December 2016.
Bryce Media named Business of the Month
Eagle Mountain recently added a Jiffy Lube to the list of new and exciting businesses in the area. A ribbon cutting celebrating the opening of the new business was attended by members of the Lehi Area Chamber of Commerce and local elected officials including Eagle Mountain Mayor Chris Pengra. The Jiffy Lube is located in the south parking area of the Ridley’s shopping center. This Jiffy Lube location was able to provide free service to military personnel on Veterans Day to show its appreciation for their service to our country. Manager Matt Johnson is pleased with this location and looks forward to serving the community.
Bryce Media has been named Business of the Month for December 2016 by the Lehi Area Chamber of Commerce. Bryce Media is owned and operated by Neil Bryce, a resident of Saratoga Springs. The company has been producing online marketing videos for business in Utah for more than eight years. Bryce Media specializes in digital media, creating marketing and sales videos that help generate more leads and exposure in the online marketplace. The videos are used for websites, social media and live training. In 2017, 73 percent of businesses will be
utilizing online video as part of their marketing strategy. The importance of video continues to skyrocket each year, making it essential for businesses. In other chamber news, a special holiday musical luncheon performance was provided for the chamber by Peter Breinholt. There was a prize giveaway for those who attended. The chamber sponsors monthly luncheons held on the third Wednesday of each month at the Texas Roadhouse in Lehi from noon to 11:30. Chamber membership is not required to attend.
New fuel center in EM
Police to teach public about safety at meetings Beginning Jan. 11, 2017, at 7 p.m., the American Fork Police Department will be holding monthly meetings at Historic City Hall where citizens can meet the police department, learn important safety tips and ask any questions they want. These meetings, called Community Partners in Policing, will be held on the second Wednesday of every month at 7 p.m. at 7 p.m. at Historic City Hall, 31 Church Street, American Fork. The meetings will be designed to equip citizens with ways to be safe in all situations and help them understand the role of the police department in the community. In January’s meeting, Sergeant Josh Christensen will discuss what citizens should do if
there is an active shooter nearby. Following the training, Sergeant Christensen will take any questions on any topic. If you plan on attending, please fill out a survey on the police department’s website. The survey is not required to attend, but it would help the department know how many people to expect. The American Fork Police Department is also looking for volunteers to participate in the neighborhood watch program. These volunteers work closely with their neighborhood police officer and receive training on how to help keep their neighborhoods safe. Those interested should contact Sergeant Josh Christensen at 801-763-3020 or jchristensen@afcity.net.
Eagle Mountain residents and city officials recently attended a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new and long-awaited Holiday fuel station, the first full-service fuel and convenience store to open in the Eagle Mountain City Center. Twenty years of patience finally paid off for many of the original city center residents. Many expressed their excitement of having such a great store located conveniently near their home.
Lehi Legacy Center plans health fair
The Lehi Legacy Center will host its Health and Fitness Fair on Saturday, Jan. 21, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The public is invited to attend. The Legacy Center is located at 123 Center in Lehi. Many local and health-related vendors and informational booths will be offering services at the fair including free hearing screenings, spinal checks, body fat testing and other fitness assessments. The Legacy Center will also be offering 20 percent off annual memberships from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. There will be face painting for children and prize giveaways every half hour. For more information about the fair, call the Legacy Center’s front desk at 385-2012000. For booth information, call Tina Strong at 385-201-2309 or send an email to tstrong@ lehi-ut.gov. Holiday schedule: The entire Legacy Center will close on Christmas Eve, Dec. 24, at noon. The facility will also close at 5 p.m. on New Year’s Eve, Dec. 31. *** Do the difficult things while they are easy and do the great things while they are small. A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step. - Lao Tzu
Vol. 16 No. 15 - Online All the Time - TheCrossroadsJournal.com - December 2016/January 2017 - A11
Sprinkler World is part of a family of companies operating under the Standard Plumbing Supply name.
Standard Plumbing Supply provides outstanding service and products By Michael Young Sprinkler World is part of a family companies founded on service under the name Standard Plumbing Supply. The company was founded in 1952 by Dale Reese and so is now into its sixth decade of successful service. They live by the motto “everyone’s a winner,” meaning that everyone involved in making, selling and using their products can all come out ahead. Dale was a Utah native who studied
first at Utah State University but then continued his education in New York City, working for large department stores while he completed his education. After returning to Utah, he formed his new company with the first location in Ogden. The company is still in family hands and it has grown to 80 locations spread across the Western states, including a Sprinkler World in Lehi. They offer all sorts of plumbing fixtures from sprinklers for your lawn to new faucets, showerheads, tubs and toi-
lets for your bathroom as well as kitchen supplies and even water pumps and heaters. They sell trusted brands such as Kohler and Sterling and many others to give the customer many options when selecting a product. You find more about Sprinkler World and its related companies online at www. standardplumbing.com. There you can also shop online and browse a helpful gallery of products to help you decide what is best for your next home improvement project.
THE CLASSIFIEDS Lessons PRIVATE PIANO LESSONS! Perfect for any age. Beginner to Advanced. 25 years playing experience, teaching for 14. Have fun learning- theory, technique and duet/quartets. First lesson free. Call Andrea 801-687-1468 DRUM LESSONS Fun, certified teacher, 42 years experience, positive influence, professional drummer & band leader, all ages/levels. Studio in Saratoga Springs, references available. Please call Ken Culmone 801-768-0708 or 801-367-2787.
GUITAR LESSONS All ages, all levels, all styles. Learn songs, chords, strumming, picking, notation, theory, song writing and MUCH more! Located in Meadow Ranches (by the new middle school) First lesson is FREE! Call Gill Taylor (801) 358-7148
HELP WANTED Ranches Housekeeping Service is looking for both full-time and part-time housekeepers. Please contact Traci at 801-830-4119 or Ciara at 801885-5511 for an application and interview ASAP!! You must have your own transportation and be a legal US resident. Background checks will be completed as well. Ranches Housekeeping Service offers great employment with flexible hours. Call if interested!
ULTIMATE DANCE Now registering for 2015-2016 Season Dance Classes. Offering Competitive and Recreational classes for ages 3+. Located on Redwood Road just north of Towne Storage in Saratoga Springs. Ultimate Dance has been offering dance classes in Saratoga Springs since 2003. Offering Ballet, Jazz, Tap, and Hip Hop. www.ultimatedanceetc. webs.com, Like us on
Facebook Ultimatedanceetc. or call us at 801718-6900 or 801-766-2286. Office hours Mon & Wed 10:00am-11:30am, Classes start Sept 8, 2015. VOICE LESSONS Learn to sing in the natural Voice. Ages 10 and up. 28 yrs. experience. Performing opportunities.I’m located one mile from west Lake High School in Eagle Mountain 801-472-3280 Ex 10/15
DAY CARE TODDLER PLAY HOUSE We do realize that sometimes mommy and daddy have to work. Located in Saratoga Springs. Meals and preschool activities provided. Call Kristin Egbert now for opening. 801-897-4904.
GOOD AS GRANDMA’s - Day Care & More. Warm, loving environment combine with exciting activities & crafts designed to stimulate your child’s emotional, social & intellectual growth. Full Time - 2 yrs & older. Call Debi Ring 801-822-7506
Listing is always free online in our classified section and realtors and For Sale by Owners can use the website. Use the multi-photo upload tool to show your property. Renters and Landlords are also welcome to list on the website for FREE. Visit TheCrossRoadsjournal.comfor more information.
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A12 - December 2016/January 2017 - Vol. 16 No. 15 - Online All the Time - TheCrossroadsJournal.com
Event marks 20th anniversary of Eagle Mountain By Wendy Visser Lojik
On Dec. 6, directly following an Eagle Mountain City Council meeting, a presentation 20 years in the making took place at the Eagle Mountain City Hall building. Founders and elected city officials from the past 20 years were invited to a celebration to be recognized for their contributions in establishing the Eagle Mountain community. Mayor Chris Pengra welcomed the group and introduced speakers Diane Bradshaw, former city council member; Finnoula Kofoed, city recorder; and Kaylie Blacka, Miss Eagle Mountain. All spoke of the humble beginnings of moving to the area long before established roads and city improvements, of the wide open space and energy from the excitement of starting a young and thriving community. First, Mayor Debbie Hooge, who was an original founder and developer of the city, spoke of the importance of vision and combined efforts. Developers Scott Kirkland and John Walden spoke as founders and Walden discussed the vision for expansion of the industrial and business area in the valley.
Current and former Eagle Mountain city officials were invited to an event celebrating the community’s 20th anniversary on Dec. 6. Pictured are, from left: current Eagle Mountain Mayor Christopher Pengra, former council member Mark Lofgren, former council member Nathan Ochsenhirt, former council member John Painter, John Walden, Scott Kirkland, Candace Bateman (representing late mayor Rob Bateman), former mayor Debbie Hooge, former council member Diane Bradshaw, former council member Diane Jacob, Council Member Colby Curtis, former mayor Don Richardson, Council Member Tom Westmoreland, Council Member Stephanie Gricius, former council member Ryan Ireland, former council member Donna Burnham, Council Member Ben Reaves, former mayor/council member Heather Jackson, Council Member Adam Bradley, former council member Richard Steinkopf, and former mayor/council member David Lifferth. Former city council members Donna Burnham and Ryan Ireland joined with former Mayor Heather Jackson and were presented with the longest serving elected officials (eight years). Eagle Mountain was a unique commu-
nity as it was established and developed in an open area of open space. These founders had to find ways to establish utility companies, form a city government and manage growth and development through hard work and determination. The city has been carried
through struggles with the help of many hard-working city employees and community volunteers who were crucial in the success of the community. Mayor Pengra closed with expressing his gratitude to all who contributed.