April 2024 vs. (2023)

Homes sold: 37 (47)

Average home price: $635,303 ($567,133)

Median home price: $499,900 ($499,900)

Average days on the market: 50 (44)

Average square feet: 2,621 (2,450)

Average price per square foot: $243.82 ($238.64)

Most expensive home sold: $1,951,910 / 6 bedrooms / 3.5 baths / 6,141 sq. ft. / .37 acres

Least expensive home sold: $248,000 / 1 bedrooms / 1 baths / 930 sq. Ft. / condo

Total listings currently available: 70 (existing homes) and 16 (new construction)

Listings over $1 million: 11

*According to the Wasatch Front MLS as of 5/2

Presented by: Skyler Beltran – Realtor / Coldwell Banker / [email protected]

By: Brynn Carnesecca

During the prosecution and investigative periods of an abuse case, children and families can often feel overwhelmed by the intimidating processes they must go through. The child may go through many exams, interviews and other bewildering experiences depending on the nature of the case. Often, these processes can further frighten and traumatize the child. 

Children’s Justice Centers all over Utah understand this phenomenon. In contrast to a large facility with a corporate feel, their centers focus on creating a safe, home-like space of healing and communication. 

“The purpose of the Children’s Justice Center is to support children and their families throughout the criminal justice process, but it’s about so much more than coordinating the forensic interview and helping with the medical exam. It is really about empowering children with the tools they need to heal,” said Tracey Tabet, Children’s Justice Center director.

On Saturday, April 27, American Fork opened a new Children’s Justice Center adjacent to the library. Many staff, AF royalty and AF government leaders attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Although the building is over 150 years old, the staff and construction crew have done a marvelous job revamping the space to make it modern and safe. Inviting colors, a stained-glass door and artwork created by children create the most welcoming space possible for the kids. 

“Where you see a beautiful building, I see perseverance,” Tabet expressed. The entire building had to be repainted, framed and gutted to create the lovely structure seen today. 

The center does everything in its power to make children feel comfortable. Princess dresses sit on the porch, a fully functional kitchen provides snacks, and comfort items such as blankets and pillows can be found in nearly every room of the three-story center. In addition to the framework of the building, the center focuses an incredible amount of energy on giving children every opportunity to choose what feels most comfortable to them. 

“We know how overwhelming it can be for children and families when there is an allegation,” Tabet said. “It’s a difficult system to navigate. The job of the CJC is to provide that safe haven for the child and family and say, ‘You don’t have to figure this out alone.'” 

In interviews that may feel stressful or cause children to relive traumatic experiences, the center allows children to choose the room they would like to be interviewed in and whom they would like to interview them. By recording the interview, the children only have to tell their story once, opening the door for quicker healing. The center also helps children have safe experiences in the medical and forensics examination room. Their goal is to let the children know their bodies are OK and to give them a soft landing for a challenging situation. 

“We can’t control what happens to kids, but we can control the spaces we create to make them feel safe,” said American Fork Mayor Brad Frost. 

By tailoring the system to the child, the center displays its true focus–families and children. 

“I would love to be out of a job because that would mean we no longer have a problem with child abuse,” Tabet said. “But as long as we do, we will continue to ensure the children’s services are available.”

The building of the Children’s Justice Center has been in the works for many years, and the joy felt by the staff and leaders of American Fork is apparent. The center is a beacon of light, rooting for those in need and creating a warm environment. 

“It serves and protects the most vulnerable among us,” Mayor Frost expressed. “It really represents coming together for the underdogs.” 

Centered in American Fork, the center is in a prime location to invite children and their families throughout Utah County to receive the help and care these situations need. 

The center also provides unique opportunities for the community to get involved monetarily or as a volunteer. For more information or to visit the center, visit www.cjcfriends.org or stop by the location at 96 S. 100 E. American Fork.

By Madelyn Wilson

One in six people over their lifetime will struggle with infertility. Based on Utah’s current population, over 90,000individuals, both men and women, will struggle with fertility problems at some point in their lifetime.

This spring, Governor Cox signed a proclamation declaring the week of April 22-27 Infertility Awareness Week throughout the state. The week was first established in 1989 nationwide by Resolve, the National Infertility Association, but this is its first year the event has been recognized in Utah.

“Infertility touches everyone, regardless of income, race, religion. It’s not a respecter of persons. It’s not a personal failing, it’s a medical diagnosis,” said Shelli Mecham, executive director of the Utah Infertility Resource Center. 

The Utah Infertility Resource Center (UIRC) has free resources to offer those experiencing infertility, including classes, support groups and much more. They have organized a variety of events for the week at Meet Me on 33rd in Millcreek, including a trivia night, women’s circle, April night out and yoga for fertility. These events are offered routinely, usually on a monthly basis. 

UIRC is a one-of-a-kind organization. While they aren’t the only group in the nation offering infertility resources, they are unique in that they offer “wrap-around” services, helping couples and individuals struggling to conceive in all stages of infertility and from all walks of life. 

Not only does UIRC host events and support groups, but theyalso offer therapy services, hold an annual conference, and issue grants to help pay for family-building services such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), surrogacy and adoption. 

UIRC also has various online and remote resources, including multiple Facebook groups–Infertility Support Group and Your Infertility Community–and their Infertility Navigator, a concierge-style service where couples can be guided to fertility treatments and other resources.

“We want people to be able to come and get their individual questions answered, get a lot of resources, but then also be able to tap back in, so it’s not a one-shot deal. You can come back multiple times. Jamie Carroll does this, and she’ll email you and follow up with more resources. If she finds something later that you might need, she’ll send that to you. We wanted it to be a little bit more of an ongoing relationship,” said Mecham.

Utah is fairly unique in its family-centric culture. Mecham points out that this makes things that much more difficult for those 1-in-6 people who struggle with fertility.

“We’re so family centered, and whether it really happens or not, the perception is that you’re not a real adult until you have kids. It’s hard to connect to the community if you’re in your twenties and thirties and don’t have kids. There’s just a lot of stigma around it, so that’s why going to a support group is super helpful, because you can talk to people that get it,” said Mecham.

Another resource offered by UIRC is in-house therapists, available both online and in-person.

“We have two females and one male now taking clients. They all have training, experience and connections to infertility and loss. Our male therapist is a marriage and family therapist, which is great for couples because it [infertility] affects your relationship, so it’s great to have a therapist who specializes in that. And it’s great that we have a man because a third of the causes of infertility are male factors. People often think, ‘That’s just a woman’s problem,” but no, it’s not. Having a male therapist who understands the male perspective is really great,” said Mecham.

With all the talk about IVF in politics recently, Mecham added that it’s more important now than ever before to advocate for fertility treatments.

“There’s a bill in congress for the protection of IVF access that Sen. Duckworth is sponsoring, and I’d encourage people to write to their representatives asking that they support it. Let your representatives know that you support IVF,” Mecham added.

UIRC’s in-person offerings are all currently only held in Salt Lake, Tooele, Weber and Davis counties, but if those in Utah County who are interested reach out to the organization and ifthere is enough interest, they can begin offering support groups and yoga for fertility classes in the area. 

To request in-person groups in Utah County, email [email protected]. To learn more about UIRC and request resources, visit utahinfertilityresourcecenter.org.

By: Brynn Carnesecca 

American Fork resident, local hero and young adult with Down syndrome Jackson Yerkes has always wanted to be a cop, no matter how big the goal seemed. 

During his time at American Fork High School, Jackson became interested in police work through his law enforcement class. While learning about what goes into police work, Jackson began developing an even deeper desire to be a police officer and help the community. The next year, Jackson took the class once again, and his teacher, Detective Russ Anderson, helped him take the reins. This time around, Jackson became the teaching assistant, becoming further immersed in the world of law enforcement. 

At the time, Jackson worked as a team member for MOD Pizza, but he always kept his dream to become a police officer. With the help of many from the police department and high school, in Sept. 2023, Jackson was offered a position at the American Fork Police Department. 

“That was my dream job,” Jackson expressed. 

After many hours of classes and training, Jackson became an invaluable part of the team. Within the department, Jackson’s official title is Record Office Worker. He works with the front office twice weekly, ensuring everyone feels welcomed and valued. 

“He is always a helper,” said Jackson’s mother, Kathy Yerkes. “He has always wanted to be a police officer, and being a helper is naturally in him.” 

Jackson also attends the AF Citizen’s Academy and helps out there. He loves working with the office staff and police department, but his favorite part of the day is when he gets to jump into the action and go for ride-alongs. 

During his ride-alongs, Jackson is the perfect addition to the force. Through his training, he has perfected his skills and now helps monitor registration numbers, enforce the speed limit and keep an eye on American Fork’s streets. 

“He is great at recognizing things,” Kathy shared. 

Not only is he focused and dedicated, but he also loves serving the community and keeping AF a beautiful place to live. Jackson and Kathy both hope he can work the position until he is ninety-nine. 

“He has all the skills for this job,” said Kathy. “Jackson has everything that it takes.” 

Jackson is truly living his dream thanks to the help of the AF Police Department, AFHS staff, Jake Laycock, Detective Russ Anderson and many other helpers. If you see Jackson around the town, be sure to say hello and support him in his heroic position.

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.

By Megan Wallgren

Community support is the fuel that runs the new Ronald McDonald Family Room at the new Intermountain Primary Children’s Hospital in Lehi. The charity aims to support families of hospitalized children, and organizers expect the location to serve over 3,000 families yearly. To achieve that, community support is essential.

“As the hospital grows, we want to grow to meet the needs of caregivers and families. We need to build up a volunteer and donor base to support those needs,” said Carrie Romano, CEO of the Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) of the Intermountain Area. “We have been delighted to welcome families for free meals lovingly prepared by volunteer groups.” 

With the new children’s hospital at capacity, they have served up to 100 free meals daily to parents at the Ronald McDonald Family Room.

The 3,200-square-foot RMHC Family Room includes four private nap and sleep rooms, laundry facilities, showers, computer access, a living area and a fully stocked kitchen. The space was 80% funded by local donors. The facility caters to the needs of families with children in various inpatient units. It is one of five Ronald McDonald House facilities in Utah.

The Family Room is centrally located on the hospital’s third floor near the Newborn and Pediatric ICUs. 

“This is by design. It’s intended to allow parents to stay within close proximity to their children in these units,” Romano said. “It’s really to give families respite and support their most basic needs so they can actively participate in and support their child’s care and healing.”

RMHC’s mission is supported by research showing that young patients benefit from having parents nearby and involved in their care. 

“It’s so lovely because there is a ton of research around family-centered care. If mom and dad can have their basic needs met—rest, a shower, clean laundry and a nutritious meal—they can better support their child as they heal,” Romano said. “You don’t want to leave the hospital, but you need to take care of yourself if you want to take care of your child. We are wrapping them in care so they have a soft landing spot while caring for their child.”

Romano said the Family Room has been busy since its opening a month ago, and support is still needed. 

“We’re hoping to fill the meal calendar. People can join with their friends, family, company or church group and sign up to adopt a meal, which means shopping for, preparing and serving a meal for families with children in the hospital. An easy way to give love is through food,” she said.

RMHC also relies on monetary and other donations. 

“We are part of an international network of sister organizations, but the funding stays local, and decision-making is local,” said Romano.

Those wanting to donate time or money to Lehi’s Ronald McDonald Family Room can visit ronaldmcdonalhouseutah.org. The website provides more information on the charity and links to donate and get involved through the adopt-a-meal program and other volunteer opportunities.

March 2024 vs. (2023)

Homes sold: 35 (62)

Average home price: $575,456 ($537,246)

Median home price: $519,900 ($541,500)

Average days on the market: 63 (46)

Average square feet: 2,433 (2,432)

Average price per square foot: $247.03 ($223.85)

Most expensive home sold: $1,650,000 / 4 bedrooms / 3.5 baths / 6,183 sq. ft. / .30 acres

Least expensive home sold: $295,000 / 2 bedrooms / 2 baths / 1,059 sq. Ft. / townhouse

Total listings currently available: 61 (existing homes) and 12(new construction)

Listings over $1 million: 12

*According to the Wasatch Front MLS as of 4/1

Presented by: Skyler Beltran – Realtor / Coldwell Banker / [email protected]

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.”