Elizabeth Meier | American Fork Citizen

To mark our nation’s 250th birthday, the American Fork Memories Project (AFMP) is collecting 250 stories online from people who live or work in our amazing city.

“For part of America 250, we decided it might be really cool to collect stories of people living in American Fork, memories they have about growing up here or raising kids here, just anything that connects to American Fork,” said Casandria Crane, Director of the American Fork Library.

As The League of Utah Writers’ 2025 Writer of the Year, American Fork resident David Rodeback was the perfect person to head up the project.

“Memories matter. For each of us individually, they’re the basis of everything from gratitude to identity,” wrote Rodeback. “When we share them–only if we share them–they preserve and build community. Without our shared memories, we’re just a bunch of people who happen to occupy the same place for a while.”

Readers can subscribe to the free online digest and read through what residents have already submitted at https://afmemories.substack.com. So far, memories include stories of Parker’s Drive In, Steel Days, AFHS Band, and more personal memories like becoming a big brother and the community rallying around a local family through loss.

Two submissions stand out to Rodeback. One story happened early one morning, when the writer’s son hit a neighbor’s car while leaving for school. The neighbor’s response was extremely kind and left an impression on the writer. The other memory was written by someone who was there when the new library opened on Main Street. A human chain formed as 1500 people lined up to pass boxes to one another, moving all the books from a warehouse into the new library.

Memories can be super simple; they don’t have to be big or life-altering. Rodeback said stories could include a writer’s “favorite Christmas Eve, wedding proposal, monthly tradition, or a favorite teacher or any number of things.”

“Some people have told me that the hard part was choosing one memory,” said Rodeback.

Intimidation may keep people from sharing a memory, especially when it’s going to be published, but Rodeback is there to assist. “I’d love for people not to worry too much about that because we can get them from where they are to there.”

As a former college writing teacher, Rodeback has more confidence in most people’s writing than they do, especially what they can produce with a bit of editorial help.

“Most of the people we hope will write and submit memories are not writers and have never written for publication before. I understand if that’s daunting, but it doesn’t have to feel like a bad memory from English class,” added Rodeback.

Rodeback said his job is to help, not grade. “It’s enough that a memory is good (broadly defined), personal, true, and written. It’s not a great leap, and sometimes it’s barely a leap at all, from that starting point to a publishable memory. We’re not looking for great literature; we’re collecting authentic memories in people’s own words. That sort of authenticity has an art and a power of its own,” shared Rodeback.

If you have a memory you would like to share with the AFMP, 2-300 word submissions will be accepted through the end of the year. Instructions and tips are available at https://afmemories.substack.com.

“I always feel like it is a good thing to be grateful and to look at the positive side of where you are. There’s a lot of good here, so it’s really neat to read other people’s stories and their experiences and be reminded of how lucky we are to have a community like this,” said Crane.

STAFF WRITER | Lehi Free Press

A monumental stained-glass landmark celebrating humanity’s shared history is planned for Ashton Gardens at Thanksgiving Point.

The Roots of Humanity Foundation and Thanksgiving Point announced Aug. 11 that the King and Diane Husein Sphere of Light will be built at the Lehi gardens. The announcement did not include an opening date.

Created by Holdman Studios in Lehi, the multi-story structure will feature more than 10,000 square feet of illustrative glass composed of hundreds of handcrafted stained-glass panels. Each panel will depict ideas, virtues, cultures and defining moments that have shaped the human experience.

The Sphere of Light is intended to serve as more than an exhibition space. Plans call for meditation and reflection rooms, an interactive children’s center, auditoriums and performance halls, multipurpose learning rooms and event spaces. Gardens surrounding the structure will connect the artwork with nature and natural light.

Balconies and viewing galleries will allow visitors to see the stained-glass panels from multiple perspectives. The facility is also expected to host cultural events, educational programs and community gatherings.

“Ashton Gardens is a natural home for the Sphere of Light — a place that will draw people from Utah and around the world,” said Max Brown, president of the Roots of Humanity Foundation. “And its greatest legacy will be what it inspires people to do when they leave.”

Project leaders announced the location during an event at Ashton Gardens attended by Alan and Karen Ashton, Tom and Gayle Holdman, King and Diane Husein and Max Brown.

The Roots of Humanity Foundation is a nonprofit organization focused on using art, education and community engagement to highlight connections among people and cultures. The foundation is leading the creation of the Sphere of Light.

Thanksgiving Point is a community-led nonprofit organization that provides hands-on educational experiences and more than 170 daily science, technology, engineering and math discovery programs for children. Its attractions include Ashton Gardens, the Museum of Natural Curiosity, the Museum of Ancient Life, the Butterfly Biosphere and the Mountain America Museum of Natural History.

Brynn Carnesecca | American Fork Citizen

Utah favorite “The Scarlet Pimpernel” soars into the Ruth Theater in Pleasant Grove with wit, drama and beauty. Having never seen the show before, I received a memorable introduction to this beloved show from the Ruth.

“The Scarlet Pimpernel” follows Sir Percy Blakeney as he leads a group of British men to rescue French nobles from the guillotine. The classic adventure story captures the energy of the French Revolution with a sweeping score by Frank Wildhorn and book/lyrics by Nan Knighton. Love, loss and danger await every turn in this bombastic musical.

While the actors and staging were beautiful as always, the material itself was subpar. The story kept me engaged and guessing, but the pacing felt slow in a lot of places. Composer Frank Wildhorn is not one of my favorites; his scores often feel uneven and poorly written. As a lover of theatrical music, I found the music itself melodramatic and boring amid such an interesting story. My favorite parts of the production were surprisingly not the musical numbers themselves, but the hilarious scenes and script.

The cast was the shining beacon in the show. Scott Hendrickson (TThS Cast) gave one of my favorite performances I’ve seen on the Ruth stage as Sir Percy Blakeney. His powerful voice, hilarious scenes and overall presence were so delightful to watch. I fell in love with his portrayal of the character and would recommend buying a ticket just to see him.

Malia Morley (TThS Cast) gave a stellar performance as Marguerite St. Just. This complicated role requires an actress who can act and sing with the best of them, and Morley was just that. Bronson Dameron (TThS Cast) was a fantastic Chauvelin. He was menacing, convincing and captivating as the show’s main antagonist. He had many standout moments, and his vocal power didn’t miss a beat.

Another standout who continually caught my eye was Cole Hixson (TThS Cast) in the role of Armand St. Just. He was perfectly cast in the role and had the acting skills to back it up. Percy’s entourage was beyond fantastic. My personal favorite was Joshua Jones (TThS Cast) as Farleigh. His over-the-top facial expressions and on-stage persona were electric. Even during a moment of technical difficulty, Jones played it off with humor.

One of my favorite elements of the show was the costumes, designed by Lauri Baird. Each one felt unique, and I especially loved the delightful outfits worn by the Scarlet Pimpernel crew during “The Creation of Man.”

While this may not be my favorite source material, there was one piece that made this show stand out amongst others. “The Scarlet Pimpernel” gave the audience the chance to see grown men on stage having real fun. Parts of the show almost felt like “Mamma Mia” for the boys- unapologetic, fun and splashy.

If you are a “Scarlet Pimpernel” fan, this show is for you. If you aren’t, this show may still be for you. Don’t expect to go home singing a tune, but you will thoroughly enjoy this night out at the theater. This show may not be appropriate for children and includes a few morbid scenes, such as a man getting executed on stage and a woman being shot.

“The Scarlet Pimpernel” runs until August 22 with nightly performances at 7:30 and select matinees. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.theruth.org.

Ryann Anderegg | American Fork Citizen

The American Fork Amphitheater was filled with music, laughter, and community spirit on Monday evening, July 13, as hundreds gathered for a free concert featuring BYU football standouts Bear and Tiger Bachmeier alongside their uncle, Don Bachmeier, performing together as Music Bachs.

The concert, presented by the Harrington Center for the Arts as part of its annual Concerts in the Park series, attracted families, football fans, and music lovers from across Utah County. Food trucks opened at 6:30 p.m., allowing attendees to enjoy dinner before the music began at 7 p.m., as the sun set over the amphitheater. Lawn chairs and blankets filled nearly every available space, while children played on the grass and neighbors visited before the first song.

Many attendees broke out their best BYU blue gear, recognizing the Bachmeier name from BYU football. Bear Bachmeier, the Cougars’ quarterback, and his younger brother Tiger, a rising wide receiver, have become well known among BYU fans.

In recent months, they have also gained attention for something beyond athletics. Videos of the pair singing in retirement homes and other community settings have circulated online, introducing audiences to another side of the talented siblings. Their heartfelt performances have resonated with viewers, making Monday night’s concert an opportunity for many to hear them perform live for the first time.

Joined by their uncle, Don Bachmeier, the trio delivered a full-length concert featuring a variety of musical styles. Throughout the evening, they combined polished harmonies and an engaging stage presence, creating an entertaining and community-building atmosphere.

Between songs, the performers shared stories, joked with one another, and interacted personally with the crowd, making the evening less like a formal concert and more like an intimate gathering of friends.

The concert was another successful installment in the Harrington Center for the Arts’ Concerts in the Park series, which has become a popular summer tradition in American Fork. The organization continues to provide free and low-cost arts experiences designed to make live performances accessible to everyone.

According to Harrington Center for the Arts Vice President and Founder Spencer Stevens, the organization strives to think creatively about how to bring unique artistic experiences to the community. “Our mission is to make the arts more accessible,” Stevens said before the event. “Bringing Bear and Tiger Bachmeier to the stage allows us to reach an entirely new audience and invites them to experience music in a meaningful way.”

Football fans who may not typically attend community concerts found themselves enjoying an outdoor musical performance alongside longtime supporters of the arts. “It was like a big party.” Said Utah County resident Jacob Anderegg. “The area was full of football players, fans, and people from around the area enjoying music by some of our favorite players.”

The concert also highlighted how music has become an important part of the Bachmeier family’s identity. While Bear and Tiger continue pursuing successful football careers, they have demonstrated that their talents extend well beyond the football field.

One of the highlights of the evening came after the concert concluded. Fans formed a long line to meet the performers during a post-concert meet-and-greet and merchandise signing. Children proudly wore BYU gear while waiting for autographs, and families took photos with the musicians, thanking them for sharing their talents with the community. Many players also attended, including BYU football coach Kalani Sitake, who met with many fans throughout the evening.

The concert’s success demonstrated the growing popularity of the Harrington Center for the Arts’ summer programming. By combining nationally recognized performers, local talent, and unique community experiences, the organization has created events that appeal to a wide range of audiences.

Supported in part through the American Fork PARC Tax, the Concerts in the Park series provides residents with opportunities to experience professional-quality entertainment without the cost often associated with live performances.

As the final notes faded Monday evening and families packed up their chairs, many lingered to visit with neighbors and enjoy the warm summer night. The atmosphere reflected what organizers hope each concert achieves by creating opportunities for people to gather, connect, and make lasting memories together.

Brynn Carnesecca | American Fork Citizen

Timpanogos Arts Foundation is involving actors of all ages with their summer production of “Matilda.” This larger-than-life show is adapted from the Roald Dahl book and is pure whimsy from beginning to end.

“Matilda the Musical” tells the story of Matilda Wormwood, a young genius who is neglected and hated by her wacky parents and brother. Her love of reading fuels her as she attends school for the first time, under the evil headmistress, Miss Agatha Trunchbull. She meets new friends, including Miss Honey, stands up for herself and discovers the power of her mind in this family-friendly musical.

This well-loved story was brought to life by a spectacular cast, both with lead and supporting roles. The show is double cast, with me watching the Red Cast. Brooklyn Alley was the perfect Matilda I could’ve asked for. She was sweet, spunky and genuinely so adorable. She barely ever left the stage, and I was swept away by her storytelling, voice and her impressive British accent.

Emma Austin was the sweetest and most endearing Miss Honey. Her rosy cheeks, soaring vocals and cute energy brought life to every moment she was in. Bryson Alley was one of the absolute highlights- playing the formidable Miss Trunchbull. His comedic timing, vocals and physicality were hilarious, and the audience loved it. I don’t think I’ve ever heard an audience laugh so hard during a production of “Matilda.”

Matilda’s family was another one of my favorite parts of the show. They managed to be nasty and mean while still being so darn fun to watch. Emma-Claire Riddle was a strong Mrs. Wormwood, shining especially bright during the song “Loud.” Josh Tenney was everything I could’ve wished for in a Mr. Wormwood. He was funny, mean and so enjoyable to hate. Eli May was equally as fun to watch as Michael Wormwood.

The ensemble of children and adults was phenomenal. I was blown away, particularly by the young actors and how much they delivered. Weston Klemetson was a perfect Bruce, and Greta Peterson was the most lovable Lavender. But my personal favorite was David Higginson as Nigel. He was so full of life that I couldn’t take my eyes off him whenever he was on stage.

Outside of the actors themselves, the set was spectacular. Designed by Kristyan Williams, the entire show felt ripped right out of one of Dahl’s illustrations. Light-up letters and teetering bookcases made for the perfect stage to tell “Matilda.” Another one of my favorite elements was the show’s visuals, such as when a young boy’s ears stretch or when book pages begin to float on their own. Many of the moments caught me by surprise and had me looking around to see how the tricks were done.

Overall, this show truly understood the heart of “Matilda.” At its core, it is a story about childhood, love and the power within every person to do remarkable things. I loved seeing Timpanogos Arts Foundation produce another smash hit with “Matilda.” This show is perfect for kids of all ages and adults.

“Matilda” runs until July 18 with evening performances and a few matinees. Individual tickets or season tickets can be purchased at timparts.com.

Ryann Anderegg | American Fork Citizen

Summer evenings in American Fork are once again coming alive with music as the Harrington Center for the Arts continues its tradition of Concerts in the Park, bringing nationally recognized artists, local performers and hundreds of community members together at the American Fork Amphitheater.

This series of free concerts is held Monday evenings from June 29 through Aug. 17 at the American Fork Amphitheater, 454 N. Center St. Each concert begins at 7 p.m., with food trucks opening at 6:30 p.m. For many residents, the weekly concerts have become a summertime tradition.

Families gather, spread out blankets and enjoy performances in one of the city’s most scenic outdoor venues. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis, and attendees are reminded to bring approved low-profile chairs while following usher instructions to ensure everyone has a clear view of the stage.

One of the most anticipated performances of the season will take place on Monday, July 27, when country music star Collin Raye returns to American Fork by popular demand.

Raye remains one of country music’s most recognizable voices, building an impressive career during the 1990s with 24 Top 10 singles, 16 No. 1 hits and 10 Male Vocalist of the Year nominations from the Country Music Association and the Academy of Country Music.

His catalog includes heartfelt classics such as “Love, Me,” “In This Life,” and “Not That Different,” as well as upbeat fan favorites like “My Kind of Girl” and “That’s My Story.” His music has become the soundtrack to countless celebrations and personal milestones, making his return to American Fork especially meaningful for longtime fans.

American Fork Concerts in the Park events reflect the Harrington Center for the Arts’ ongoing mission to provide high-quality arts and entertainment opportunities that are accessible to the entire community.

American Fork will also welcome visitors for a concert during the opening night of Steel Days on Saturday, July 18, with an evening packed full of music, celebration and community pride at Mary and Art Dye Park, 1000 N. 550 East. The Opening Night Concert will feature the energetic Wasatch Show Band at 7 p.m.

Known for high-energy performances and crowd-pleasing hits, the Wasatch Show Band has built a reputation as one of Utah’s premier community performance groups. Their concerts blend classic rock, pop, jazz, big band, country and contemporary favorites into an entertaining show that encourages audiences to dance and sing along.

Following the concert, the official Steel Days Opening Ceremonies will begin at 9 p.m., celebrating the city’s heritage, community spirit and the start of a week of festivities.

This series of concerts mirrors the spirit that defines Steel Days and the American Fork community itself by bringing people together through shared experiences and celebrating the arts as an important part of everyday life.

With nationally recognized performers, talented local musicians, family-friendly activities and beautiful outdoor venues, this summer promises to offer something for everyone in American Fork. These concerts continue to showcase outstanding entertainment and the strong sense of community that makes American Fork a special place to call home.

Staff Writer | American Fork Citizen

Canyon Grove Arts Academy will open a new campus in Lehi this August, offering local families another educational option with an arts-focused hybrid learning program.

The new campus, located at 3046 W Maple Loop Drive in Lehi, will provide students with academic instruction alongside a wide variety of enrichment and arts-based classes. According to information provided by the school, course offerings will include dance, theater, choir, band, piano, visual arts, ceramics, cooking, woodworking, Spanish, karate and more.

School representatives said the goal of the new Lehi campus is to give families access to a different kind of educational experience, one that combines core academics with creative, hands-on learning opportunities.

Canyon Grove Arts Academy also plans to support families using Utah Fits All scholarships, which can help make alternative educational programs more accessible for students throughout the area.

“As we prepare to open our doors, we would love the opportunity to share our story with the Lehi community,” Kaitlyn Jaynes of Canyon Grove Arts Academy said in the announcement. “We believe Canyon Grove Arts Academy will be a wonderful addition to the Lehi community, and we’d love to help spread the word to local families who may be looking for a different educational experience for their children.”

The school is expected to open in August. Additional information, photos, tour opportunities and interviews with school leadership may be available as the opening date approaches.

Families interested in learning more about Canyon Grove Arts Academy’s new Lehi campus may contact Kaitlyn Jaynes at [email protected] or 760-213-0302.

https://www.canyongrove.com

Brynn Carnesecca | American Fork Citizen

Classic children’s book “Matilda” comes to life with Timpanogos Arts Foundation this summer. This family-friendly musical features actors of all ages singing in the colorful world of Roald Dahl.

Follow along with Matilda, a young girl with astonishing intelligence. When she goes to a new school and meets the cruel headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, she uses her new powers to rise up. Featuring favorite characters Matilda, Miss Trunchbull and Miss Honey, this musical is a great opportunity for a night out.

“Matilda” will run June 26-July 18 with evening performances and various matinees. For more information or to buy tickets, visit www.timparts.com.

By: Brynn Carnesecca

American Fork Citizen

On June 9, the American Fork City Council unanimously approved the 2026-2027 $1.58 million PARC tax proposal. Funds will be dispersed to different organizations under the parks, arts, recreation and culture umbrella. Council member Clark Taylor introduced the motion and Council member Ernie John seconded. The remaining council members voted unanimously to approve the ordinance, as presented by the PARC Program Board. 

The council first discussed the approval at the May 6 council meeting. The PARC Tax Advisory Board reviewed various applications, totaling $3,548,224, for the funds before recommending the final allocations. Board members considered community impact, broad appeal, and alignment with city survey results to determine which programs would receive funds. 

After reviewing the applications, the following organizations were approved to receive funds: 

● American Fork City: $1,110,634

● Friends of American Fork Library: $25,050

● Harrington Center for the Arts: $127,000

● Nashville in the Rockies: $7,000

● Timpanogos Arts Foundation: $213,000

● Timpanogos Chamber Music: $8,000

● Timpanogos Chorale of Utah: $14,530

● Wasatch Contemporary Dance: $2,786

● Wasatch Music Alliance: $72,000.00 

The PARC tax became effective April 1, 2015. Since then, funds have been dispersed throughout the city for the benefit of the community. This year’s approved budget will go towards various services and amenities for city residents. 

Highlights include improvements to city parks (including Art Dye), boat harbor dock replacements, American Fork Library programs, Concerts in the Park series, Fork Fest, TAF performing arts programs, and other concerts through the city’s choirs and bands. The library is also set to continue working on teen spaces. 

The breakdown of the funds is as follows. 

● Park-related projects receive 46% 

● Arts-related projects receive 1%

● Recreation-related projects receive 20% 

● Culture-related projects receive 33% 

The city itself is set to receive the largest allocation of funds. The $1,110,634 for the 2026-27 fiscal year will go towards: 

● Art Dye Bond Payment: $350,000

● Monarch Park Improvements: $80,000

● Beehive Park Improvements: $179,150

● Lakeview Park: $185,000

● Evergreen Park Basketball & Pickleball: $95,420

● Boat Harbor Dock Replacement: $24,000

● Lion’s Park Improvements: $125,880

● AF Library – Teen Area Phase 3: $65,684

● Cemetery – Veteran’s Memorial Stone: $5,500

Items that were not recommended for funding included a picnic area at Art Dye Park, park amenities, an aqua climb at the fitness center, concerts at the Living Bethlehem event, and a public art feature in the city. 

The PARC tax will continue through to 2033. It generates revenue through a 0.1% sales tax specifically designated for the PARC activities. The program has grown significantly since it was first approved, collecting $818,889 in its first full year. This year’s allocation of over $1.5 million represents a large jump. 

PARC tax funds change annually. Applicants for 2027 may submit a funding request in the coming months. The budget for 2026-27 will be implemented for the 2026-27 fiscal year. For more information, visit the city council’s agenda for June 9 at www.americanfork.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_06092026-2257 or the PARC tax website, www.afparc.org.  

Brynn Carnesecca | American Fork Citizen

When kids are taught art, music, dance or theater, there is often a moment where they “light up.” Whether it be from a performance going well or a finished painting, the arts can bring a kind of connection that cannot be found anywhere else.

Yet, in 2026, youth spend approximately 7 ½ hours on screens each day, according to the AACAP. Compared to the 1-2 hours they spend on the arts or creative endeavors, screens have become the norm for children’s entertainment.

In the last few years, arts teachers from across the state have noticed significant changes in technology use, particularly in Artificial Intelligence, and how people use it in the arts. Generating songs, rendering entire artworks, or choreographing challenging dance routines can often be delegated to AI. But many teachers hope it won’t take over the creative sphere.

“Art reflects society now. Art is never made in a bubble. It always encapsulates what the human experience is now,” said AFHS art teacher Heidi Boden.

When it comes to using AI for art, Boden believes it can cheapen the experience.

“It doesn’t have any human experience,” Boden explained. “It doesn’t have any craftsmanship, and it’s too plastic-looking. It’s abhorrent and not good for the environment.”

Engaging in the arts at a young age can rewire a child’s pathways and lead to more creativity, according to a study by the National Library of Medicine. It can also build visual-spatial reasoning and lead to greater academic success in other areas.

“The arts are important for human development because they allow you to be expressive. Your brain can process things through the arts that you can’t in any other way,” Boden said.
When practiced in a group, the arts can also be a great way for the youth to connect with one another and with the world around them.

“Music is just joyful. We sing, play, dance in class, and are creating all the time,” said Danya Paxman, the music teacher at Legacy Elementary School. “It really brings the kids together and creates unity in the class.”

With the rise of AI, educators have continued to hold meetings to discuss the ever-present need for the arts in schools.
“We would lose that authentic sense of care and connection. AI cannot create care or empathy. It’s just an algorithm,” Boden explained.

Paxman added, “[The arts] is the most engaging or exciting part of their day…I can’t imagine a world where students weren’t experiencing art and connecting it to other subjects. Music is such a great catalyst.”

When using AI in any form, Boden encourages her students to use it as a tool, like a pencil or piece of charcoal. She has also found that when students rely too heavily on AI, they can feel a disconnect between what they can physically create and what the algorithms provide.

“They need to try[music] out, listen to it, create it, and play with it,” Paxman shared. “That is what affects them the most… At this age, the most important thing is to experience it and learn to love it. As they grow, they will be able to add to their knowledge base.”

Looking to the future, Boden and Paxman believe that more research is needed so that it can be used in any capacity in K-12 instruction. In the field in general, many teachers believe it should be banned entirely from schools. Until further research and understanding are gained, it can be tricky to know how to use it without harming a child’s education.

Beyond the harm that comes from using AI, the arts can be healing for a child’s soul, helping them process trauma or take a brain break from the traditional classroom.

“Art is very dear to my soul,” Boden said. “It creates a sense of beauty and wholeness and wellness for me. I wouldn’t be a complete human being without the arts in my life.”

Arts classes are continually taught at K-12 schools throughout Utah. For more information on what is offered, visit http://www.schools.utah.gov/curr/finearts.