In a heartfelt ceremony that brought together the bravest of the brave, Captain Chase Parry was awarded the prestigious Officer of the Year Award, showcasing his unparalleled dedication to service, leadership, and community safety. The unique aspect of this award is its selection method – recipients are chosen by fellow firefighters, with nominations coming directly from their peers in each department.

Captain Parry, known for his unwavering commitment and exceptional skills, is an inspiration at the American Fork Fire & Rescue. His innovative projects, leadership, and dedication to the development of his crew and the entire department have not gone unnoticed.

Reflecting on this honor, Battalion Chief Justin Whatcott shared, “Captain Parry is extremely deserving of this award due to his passion, leadership, hard work, and the projects that he is continuously working on. He is dedicated to the development of his crew and the department.” The Chief further praised Captain Parry’s skills and commitment, noting his exceptional abilities as a paramedic, firefighter, and captain. “He leads with integrity and passion for the job,” Whatcott added.

Under Captain Parry’s leadership, his crew has seen significant growth in their knowledge and skills, truly embodying the spirit of teamwork and dedication. Beyond the call of duty, Captain Parry manages the department’s critical resources, including personal protective equipment, SCBAs, uniforms, and fire training programs, always with an eye toward enhancing departmental excellence.

But it’s not just his professional acumen that sets him apart; Captain Parry’s character outside of the fire station is equally commendable. “He is constantly going above and beyond with his crew and is always helping them both at home and at work,” stated Battalion Chief Whatcott. “He also maintains a great support structure at home with his wife and kids, where he is an excellent father and husband.”

NarcX® is an innovative company founded in 2018 that is dedicated to mitigating drug misuse. It collaborates with healthcare and other professionals who are passionate about preventing drug diversion. The company offers an effective solution for various establishments, including hospitals, pharmacies, medical facilities, law enforcement, and government entities dedicated to the safety of the community. NarcX® is also available for residential use.

“For the first five years, we spent a lot of time on our IP side; it took four years for us to be granted the patent,” said Jordan Erskine, co-founder and chief innovation officer. “We developed a liquid solution that is biodegradable before and after extremely dangerous drugs are added. We found it to reduce and eliminate all the stockpiling and reverse distribution that is going on within the pharmaceutical world.”

NarcX®’s liquid solution is engineered to neutralize controlled and non-controlled substances rapidly. A specialized mixture of components allows even the most resistant, time-release capsules to be effectively dismantled in the solution. Upon contacting the solution, capsules, pills, and liquid medications are dissolved within minutes. The formula contains elements that render it inedible, discouraging any misuse. In addition, the substances are permanently irretrievable in less than two hours.

“We have 60 VA hospitals that we [currently] sell to,” Erskine added. “We have small sizes, down to 6 oz., that will handle 30-60 pills; we are going to relaunch on Amazon.

Created to thwart the misdirection of controlled substances such as narcotics, amphetamines, and opiates, NarcX® presents an accessible, cost-effective method for disposing of disused or expired pills and capsules. Featuring a unique, eco-friendly patented liquid solution and in compliance with DEA guidelines, it represents the on-site medication destruction method that doesn’t rely on incineration. This method significantly reduces costs and is a convenient and potent alternative.

“What a lot of people don’t realize is the biggest contributing factor to the opioid epidemic right now is still diversion, which means there are still tons of people going into their grandma’s house and taking drugs to sell or use them,” Erskine said. The DEA will tell you that accounts for seventy percent of the epidemic.”

In a significant addition to the American Fork City Council, Ernie John has been elected as a council member, bringing with him a wealth of experience in water management. His election comes at a crucial time when sustainable water use and management are becoming increasingly important for communities in Utah.

Ernie John, known for his extensive work in managing surface water in American Fork Canyon, has been actively engaged on several water boards prior to his election. His commitment to safeguarding the city’s water resources has been well recognized.

“We have a great city council, and I don’t have any huge changes to offer; I want to stay the course of the ship,” John said. “I think most important is I want to make sure that as we continue to grow as a city, I don’t want the demographic split not to understand each other, I want them to work together. Multifamily housing is on one side of that.”

John also expressed concerns regarding the pacing of growth for American Fork, highlighting the necessity of managing development in a way that ensures the city’s infrastructure, especially affordable housing and multifamily housing.

“Growth is an area we need to do a better job on,” John said. “I want to make sure we have plenty of green space.”

John has lived in American Fork for 22 years. He and his family have deep roots in American Fork, and John and his wife live in her family home. John credits his time living elsewhere as a way to see things done differently, what works and what doesn’t.

“I think living outside of Utah for 25 years gives me a unique perspective,” John added. “Having a different perspective helps us to make better decisions. I try to find common connections with people, which has allowed me to work with just about everyone.”

John’s election is a testament to American Fork residents’ growing concern for environmental sustainability and resource management. His expertise in water management is expected to complement the council’s diverse skill set, enabling more informed decisions that will benefit the city and its residents for years to come.

The American Fork City Council greeted a fresh face in municipal government as Timothy Holley took his seat among the council members on January 3, 2024. Juggling multiple roles as a security sales professional for IBM, a small business owner, and a United States Marine Corps reservist, Holley brings a multifaceted perspective to his new role in local politics.

One of five council members, Holley has taken up responsibilities within the beautification committee, including indoor preservation and oversight of the cemetery. This role shapes the aesthetic and historical fabric of American Fork.

In his transition to public office, Holley remains focused on the city’s financial health, which he describes as a critical component.

“The biggest thing for me is the budget, always, because I want to ensure the budget is managed properly,” Holley said. There is a lot going on in a macroeconomic way that is outside of the city’s control, like inflation and interest rates, that we need to be mindful of. I want to make sure that we are not wasting money, especially with our capital projects.”

Holly’s unique background as the Heart and Seoul Karaoke owner in Provo, coupled with his expertise in security sales, positions him as an advocate for local businesses and civic safety within the council.

“Infrastructure, including how the roads and sidewalks are being maintained, is also a top priority for me,” Holley added. “And the downtown revitalization project. Making sure the downtown area is a place for businesses can be successful.”

The community has reacted positively to Holley’s election, with residents expressing optimism about his commitment to fiscal responsibility and long-term city planning.

“I make myself available [to people] as much as possible, whether it is through a phone call or text, or social media and emails, I do my best to respond to them as quickly as possible,” Holley said. “I think that is one of the most important jobs I have on the city council, connecting to people in person and being available.”

With Holley on board, the American Fork City Council remains poised to manage the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for this vibrant Utah community.

In a profession dominated by men, Brenna Lussier stands tall—not just for her ability to carry heavy ladders but also for her remarkable dedication and service, which earned her the prestigious Firefighter of the Year award this year.

“It was really cool to get this award [from my peers],” Lussier said, reflecting on her award. “I was really surprised.”

Chosen by her peers, Lussier’s recognition comes from consistently going above and beyond in her duties as a firefighter and paramedic and being a beacon of strength and inspiration within the department and the community she serves.

“This award is special in that the winner is voted on by their peers in the department. No one was surprised when Brenna was selected,” said Tim Dunkley, Battalion Chief, American Fork Fire. “She is the type of firefighter paramedic that I want showing to my house to take care of my loved ones. Not only is she excellent at what she does outside of the station, but she is a humble leader and mentor to our new personnel in the station. She has and will continue to do great things for American Fork Fire Rescue and this community.”

Lussier grew up in a first responder family and spent the last four years with the American Fork Fire Department.  She initially faced some challenges on the job, including overcoming her fear of heights and building the physical strength required for the demanding role. Her determination and hard work have paid off, not only in overcoming these challenges but also in setting a new standard for excellence within her unit.

Her commitment to her role was recently highlighted in an emergency situation when she helped a woman deliver a baby in her car. This act of quick thinking and calm under pressure is just one example of Lussier’s extraordinary dedication to her work every day.

 “It was cool to help out and get them where they needed to go,” Lussier said. “That was something we don’t get to do very often, we tend to see more of the sadder side of the job.”

Aside from her duties at the fire department, Lussier enjoys teaching the newbies at AF. New paramedics help Lussier keep her skills sharp, and she helps them process what they learned in school in a clinical setting into real-life practice. Talking to people is a big area of focus in her mentoring.

As Firefighter of the Year, Lussier not only represents the pinnacle of professional achievement in her field but also underscores the vital role of determination, teamwork, and selfless service in the face of adversity. She advises other women who are interested in becoming firefighters to start young, get involved in the high school intern programs, get their EMT first, keep their down, and keep working.

“The trend is slowly changing in the fire service, where you are seeing more women,” Lussier added. It is still a male-dominated field, so just know you are going to have to work a little harder. There are still departments out there that believe women will have a harder time doing the job, but that is part of the fun of it—proving them wrong.”

Tragedy struck the quiet streets of American Fork in the early hours of Wednesday morning when a powerful explosion shattered the peace, claiming the life of one woman and causing extensive damage to surrounding homes.

At approximately 5:50 AM, emergency calls flooded in reporting an explosion at a residential duplex near 67 North 370 East Street. Responders from the American Fork Fire Department were joined by agencies from Saratoga Springs, Provo, Lehi, and Pleasant Grove, who all swiftly converged on the scene.

Witnesses reported a deafening boom that jolted the neighborhood, leaving a trail of debris that stretched for blocks. The mangled remnants of an aluminum awning and sizable portions of the building’s roof could be seen in the aftermath, with plywood and other materials strewn across nearby properties.

In a solemn update, authorities confirmed one fatality amidst the rubble. While another adult woman and a pet dog managed to escape the devastation, their community mourns the loss of a neighbor.

Dominion Energy officials were on-site as the investigation into the cause of the explosion commenced. Battalion Chief Brandon Boshard from the American Fork Fire Department highlighted the magnitude of the damage, stating that several other structures in the vicinity sustained significant impacts.

As daylight broke, the area bore the scars of the incident—a poignant testament to the force of the unexpected blast. Residents woke to a landscape of ruin, with emergency vehicles and caution tape painting a stark contrast to the normally tranquil suburban backdrop.

Officials have instated road closures around the impacted area at 330 East while crews continue to work tirelessly, ensuring the structural safety of the affected buildings and thorough examination of the debris.

The heart of the American Fork community goes out to all affected by this disaster as they come together in the face of loss and destruction. This incident is a harrowing reminder of the fragility of life and the resilience of a community in crisis. Further details will be shared as the investigation progresses.

As Utah transitions from winter to spring, the state’s water resources situation signals a period of increasing optimism and abundance. Known for its stunning landscapes and varied climate, Utah has enjoyed a significant surplus of snowfall, laying a strong foundation for the upcoming critical spring runoff season.

The latest Water Supply Report from the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), as of March 1, shows that Utah has received 157% of its typical snow water equivalent (SWE) for the month. This measure is pivotal in assessing the water potentially available from snowpack melt and suggests a prosperous season ahead for water availability throughout the state.

Utah’s soil moisture levels remain favorable, a critical factor in ensuring the forthcoming snowmelt contributes effectively to the state’s water systems. Streamflow gauges are also reflecting a positive trend, with 60% reporting normal to above-normal levels, indicative of healthy inflows into reservoirs and waterways.

In American Fork City, the current snowpack levels are especially significant. About 50% of the city’s culinary water is sourced from a spring in American Fork Canyon, with the remainder supplied by well water. The city’s secondary water system relies mainly on runoff from American Fork Canyon, with additional contributions from Deer Creek Reservoir and two wells dedicated to the secondary system. The snowpack on the Timpanogos Divide, currently at 112% above the median following recent storms, is crucial for both culinary and secondary water systems in the city.

To manage the ample snowpack and prevent flood risks, controlled releases began at Utah Lake in February, expected to contribute about 30,000 acre-feet of water to the Great Salt Lake. More controlled releases within the lake’s basin are planned in the coming months.

Most of Utah has transitioned out of drought status, a condition that has plagued the state for an extended period. As mid-February arrives, Utah’s water supply demonstrates promising signs of resilience and abundance. The state’s snowpack, consistently above normal levels across most regions, sets an optimistic tone for the state’s water conditions. January storms have played a crucial role, with southern Utah reaping significant benefits. The positive soil moisture, coupled with the above-normal snowpack and robust reservoir levels, positions the state favorably as it progresses through winter.

Statewide, reservoirs, currently at an impressive 82%, highlight the critical role of water storage infrastructure. This contrasts starkly with the situation a year ago when reservoirs were less than 50% full. The reservoirs’ storage capacity, crucial during the last two years of extreme drought, underscores the importance of continued conservation to ensure water availability in times of need. As one of the driest states in the nation, the unpredictability of each year’s water supply necessitates wise water use.

Mother Nature is contributing her share; it’s incumbent upon us to continue our efforts in using our water supply efficiently and enhancing our drought resilience. In Utah, the constant cycle of drought and preparation for potential drought conditions emphasizes the need for prudent water management and conservation.

As Utah navigates its water resource management, the collective efforts of the community and strategic planning will be pivotal in ensuring a sustainable water future.

In the serene yet unpredictable terrains of American Fork Canyon, an avalanche was triggered by a snowmobile on February 22, serving as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers associated with winter sports in mountainous areas. The Utah Avalanche Center (UAC) provided details of the incident, which underscores the critical importance of preparedness and knowledge in avalanche-prone environments. This recent event emphasizes the unpredictability of snow conditions and the need for vigilance among outdoor enthusiasts.

The avalanche spanned an impressive width of 1,400 feet and was approximately 2 feet deep. It occurred on a southeast-facing slope, a detail that challenges common perceptions about the relative safety of different slope orientations. The slide was triggered by a failure on a thin layer of facets above an ice crust, a condition that can often be underestimated by those venturing into the backcountry.

Mark Staples, from the Utah Avalanche Center, elaborated on the incident, noting the avalanche’s significant size and the specific snowpack conditions that contributed to its occurrence. Despite the common belief that south-facing slopes typically have stronger snowpack due to more exposure to the sun, this event highlighted the complexity of snow stability and the factors that can lead to avalanches.

The avalanche was notably triggered by a snowmobile, highlighting the impact that recreational activities can have on snow stability. In the aftermath, it was reported that one or two individuals were likely caught in the avalanche. Fortunately, they had left the scene by the time a second group arrived and conducted a beacon search in the debris to ensure no one was buried. This quick-thinking and well-prepared response by the second group likely prevented further potential casualties and underscores the importance of carrying and knowing how to use avalanche rescue equipment, such as beacons, probes, and shovels.

The incident also revealed at least one area where a snowmobile appeared to have been partially buried before being pulled out, suggesting a narrow escape from what could have been a much graver situation. There were indications that another snowmobile may have also been partially buried, pointing to the severity of the avalanche and the lucky escape of those involved.

This event serves as a crucial reminder for all who enjoy the beauty and thrill of the backcountry to prioritize safety. It underscores the importance of checking avalanche forecasts, understanding the current snowpack conditions, and always being equipped with the necessary rescue gear. The invaluable work of organizations like the Utah Avalanche Center, which provide essential education and updates on avalanche safety, cannot be overstated. These resources are vital for anyone looking to explore the mountains during winter, offering guidance on how to mitigate risks and respond effectively in case of an avalanche.

As we continue to enjoy the winter season, let this incident in American Fork Canyon serve as a cautionary tale and a call to action. The unpredictability of avalanches demands respect, preparation, and a commitment to safety from all who venture into mountainous terrains. By educating ourselves, remaining vigilant, and preparing for the unpredictable nature of avalanches, we not only protect ourselves but also contribute to the safety of the entire community exploring these breathtaking but potentially dangerous areas.

By Madelyn Wilson

A few years in the making, the new Barnes & Noble at The Meadows in American Fork will open its doors to the public on Wednesday, Feb. 28. Matt Grahl, manager of the new location, has been working for Barnes & Noble for nearly six years.

“We’ve been waiting for American Fork for a long time. Once they got things turned around and started on this trend of opening new stores–four new ones in Utah alone–we finally managed to pull this one together. The growth in Utah is pretty phenomenal,” said Grahl.

The nationwide bookseller has plans to start things off with a bang, beginning with a ribbon cutting by author of “Fablehaven” series, Brandon Mull at 10 a.m. Mull and a handful of other authors will also be present to sign books at different points in the day, including Ally Condie, Julianne Donaldson and Tricia Levenseller. 

Because the store is opening on a weekday, grand opening festivities will continue into the weekend to allow more people to join the fun. More authors will be in the store to sign books on Saturday, March 2, and events for kids, including face painting and a meet-and-greet with kids’ book characters are planned.

“We’re excited to get into the community and to create a local bookstore option,” said Janine Flanigan, Senior Director of Store Planning for Barnes & Noble.

Taking the place of the former Bed Bath & Beyond, the new bookstore is a massive 22,000 square feet. This large space uses bookcases to divide the store into genres and independent areas that flow together.

“It’s a journey throughout the store. The bookcases create these fantastic, cozy ‘book rooms,’” said Flanigan.

This location offers a new take on design and colors, such as light wood and pink paint. It’s a lighter, warmer tone compared to the dark wood and mossy green many associate with B&N. The cafe will be decorated with art representative of the community and region.

“These stores are different. They’re much brighter with a more open atmosphere and a little more inviting,” said Grahl. “The company was in a very different situation than it is now. It’s come a long way and it’s doing very well. James Daunt, our CEO, has really turned it around and gotten us going in the right direction.”

Grahl also noted the significant growth of the bookstore chain in the wake of the pandemic. 

“There’s a lot of excitement in books now. Covid had kind of an unusual effect on our industry. It seemed like people, being locked away, got really tired of looking at computer screens and started reading again. “Booktok” [on Tic Toc] has become surprisingly big. I don’t get it, but it’s telling people about books and talking about books, and we’re all for that. Whatever gets people there,” he said.

The store will be open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m.-6 p.m. For more information about Barnes & Noble in American Fork, visit stores.barnesandnoble.com/store/3454. 

Barnes & Noble in American Fork to hold Feb. 28 grand opening

By Madelyn Wilson

Lehi Free Press

A few years in the making, the new Barnes & Noble at The Meadows in American Fork will open its doors to the public on Wednesday, Feb. 28. Matt Grahl, manager of the new location, has been working for Barnes & Noble for nearly six years.

“We’ve been waiting for American Fork for a long time. Once they got things turned around and started on this trend of opening new stores–four new ones in Utah alone–we finally managed to pull this one together. The growth in Utah is pretty phenomenal,” said Grahl.

The nationwide bookseller has plans to start things off with a bang, beginning with a ribbon cutting by the author of “Fablehaven” series, Brandon Mull, at 10 a.m. Mull and a handful of other authors, including Ally Condie, Julianne Donaldson and Tricia Levenseller, will also be present to sign books at different times. 

Because the store is opening on a weekday, grand opening festivities will continue into the weekend to allow more people to join the fun. More authors will be in the store to sign books on Saturday, March 2, and events for kids, including face painting and a meet-and-greet with kids’ book characters, are planned.

“We’re excited to get into the community and to create a local bookstore option,” said Janine Flanigan, Senior Director of Store Planning for Barnes & Noble.

Taking the place of the former Bed Bath & Beyond, the new bookstore is a massive 22,000 square feet. This ample space uses bookcases to divide the store into genres and independent areas that flow together.

“It’s a journey throughout the store. The bookcases create these fantastic, cozy ‘book rooms,’” said Flanigan.

This location offers a new take on design and colors, such as light wood and pink paint. It’s a lighter, warmer tone compared to the dark wood and mossy green many associate with B&N. The cafe will be decorated with art representative of the community and region.

“These stores are different. They’re much brighter with a more open atmosphere and a little more inviting,” said Grahl. “The company was in a very different situation than it is now. It’s come a long way, and it’s doing very well. James Daunt, our CEO, has really turned it around and gotten us going in the right direction.”

Grahl also noted the significant growth of the bookstore chain in the wake of the pandemic. 

“There’s a lot of excitement in books now. COVID-19 had an unusual effect on our industry. It seemed like people, being locked away, got really tired of looking at computer screens and started reading again. “Booktok” [on TikTok] has become surprisingly big. I don’t get it, but it’s telling people about books and talking about books, and we’re all for that. Whatever gets people there,” he said.

The store will be open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. and Sunday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. For more information about Barnes & Noble in American Fork, visit the store website. 

Lehi Free Press

Lehi City and American Fork City are in the final stages of merging their justice courts into one, after American Fork is set to lose its partnership with the 4^th District Court.

“We were approached by American Fork a couple of months ago about combining our justice courts,” said Lehi City Administrator Jason Walker, to begin the discussion during Lehi’s City Council meeting on Tuesday.

“Soon the district court will be leaving American Fork, and they won’t have anywhere to file their justice court cases. They approached Lehi, and we think we can handle those. In doing so, we think Lehi can benefit by saving a good chunk of change on what it costs to operate a justice court because American Fork would be chipping in,” said Judge Morgan Cummings who oversees Lehi’s court.

Justice Courts are authorized by Utah’s Constitution and are established by counties and municipalities. Justice Courts have the authority to deal with class B and C misdemeanors, violations of ordinances, small claims, and infractions committed within their territorial jurisdiction.

“There are benefits to a municipality having its own justice court. If you’re in a district court, then your case is heard with a million other cases from many different cities. Where here in our justice court we can know if there is a higher crime rate at Smiths Marketplace or Cabela’s than there has been in the past and it helps our community address those problems better,” continued Cummings.

Judge Cummings anticipates hiring four new court clerks but will start with one or two while the caseload is measured.

“They [American Fork] tend to have more traffic cases and less serious crimes like DUI or domestic violence… we also have moved to a hybrid court since COVID and see about a 60-40% split between those joining the court remotely versus in person,” said Cummings when asked about Lehi’s capability to add the new workload.

The 10-year agreement between the cities also stipulates the agreement will be reassessed if the need to build a larger or newer facility arises.

“We did some analysis and looked at the dollar amount we are paying. As long as American Fork’s caseload is above 32% then we believe we benefit from the agreement. If it’s below 32% then we would be subsidizing some of their cases and that’s why we put in a minimum amount [in the] agreement for American Fork to pay,” said Lehi Assistant City Manager Cameron Boyle, who assured the Council that the agreement will not negatively impact Lehi residents.

The Lehi City Justice Court’s 2024 annual budget is $748,247.