Madelyn Wilson | American Fork Citizen

At the beginning of this year, if you’d asked next-door neighbors Amanda Beirdneau and Betty Parker what they knew about mahjong, they might have mentioned that they like the movie “Crazy Rich Asians.”

American mahjong, a tile game inspired by the traditional and iconic Chinese game, is bringing people together, maybe more than ever before, in its 89th official year. Since this spring, Beirdneau and Parker have been some of the many people who’ve come to love playing the game, and now they’re spreading that love.

“I was in a monthly domino group for the last several years, playing with a group of ladies once a month,” Parker said. “At some point, the lady who hosted said, ‘I’m going to order a mahjong set.’ When it came, we spent one night reading the instructions and we were all shaking our heads. We’re reading the book and thinking, ‘This doesn’t make any sense.’ We knew this was not going to be the kind of board game you can open and read and start playing and see what happens. I had just seen an ad for a class, so I went to a class and took my domino ladies. And they were all like, ‘Eh, yeah, we’ll try in a month when we get together.’ And I’m like, ‘No, I love it, and I need to play now.’”

Parker invited Beirdneau and some other neighbors to try a beginner lesson. After that, they knew they wanted to bring the game to more people, so they got to work.

“We taught the whole neighborhood, and we loved it and decided to do it for real. We just wanted everybody to get excited like we were about mahjong and have people to play with,” Parker continued.

Little did they know what a big deal mahjong was about to become.

“I had no idea that it would be the top obsession of Utah, and even outside of Utah. Mahjong is having its moment, and it’s by chance that we jumped in at the right time and we’re having so much fun,” Parker shared.

Our Mahjong Table, Beirdneau and Parker’s mahjong group, offers mahjong nights for players of all skill levels, including those who have never even picked up a tile. Beginner lessons, listed on their site as “Mahjong 101,” are hosted on Thursday nights at Lehi Bakery on Lehi Main St. They host an occasional “open play” for those who are familiar enough with the game to play without constant guidance. And for those confident enough to play independently, they’re kicking off a new league beginning this week.

“There was just an interest in league play, and we hadn’t seen anyone in Utah do a league for mahjong, so we decided we should try it,” said Beirdneau. “You get to know new people, sit at different tables — and that’s what’s fun about pickleball, right? Switching partners and meeting new people and just having people to play with. Because when you find a hobby that you love, you just want to do it.”

The league is a social setting, but it plays quickly, aiming for six games per table in a two-hour window. The league meets once a week for six weeks, with points adding up each round. At the end of the six weeks, one player wins. While the current league is full, demand is high enough that they have a Holiday League planned for Tuesday nights from late October through early December.

Although they just started teaching in June, they’re plowing ahead with more plans to teach and play, and they’re finding their audience. They also offer private events, date nights, and plan to introduce tournament play in the future.

“We went to class and just did a deep dive and started studying,” said Parker.

“We jumped in with both feet,” Beirdneau added. “When we started out, we were like, ‘Do we know what we’re doing? No, but we’ll figure it out.’”

And they have. While they both admit running a business like this is a learning curve, each brings strengths to the mahjong table that have helped make their business a success so far. Beirdneau is a stay-at-home mom and a social butterfly, so bringing people together comes naturally to her. Parker has a long career in human resources, focusing mainly on compensation, so she’s organized and knows her way around spreadsheets.

They also shared that they couldn’t accomplish what they’re doing without a lot of help. Both of their husbands and Parker’s son show up to Mahjong 101 every week to set up tables and guide beginners through gameplay.

“They’re so good at it. They’re unpaid, and we didn’t even ask; they just kept coming. They see the need and they really enjoy it. My son is always a favorite at his table,” said Parker.

“People might like them better than us sometimes,” joked Beirdneau.

With their men on board as table helpers, they’re able to cover a lot of ground in one night, sharing some more intermediate gameplay tips and strategies with first-time players.

In the future, they hope to collaborate with other local mahjong groups and branch out to join forces with some pickleball spots to host mahjong and pickleball nights. Even with big plans on the horizon, they said beginner lessons always come first.

“I came out of my first class and I was just like, ‘I haven’t had that much fun in a long time.’ Because you’re using your brain, you’re doing something new, it’s competitive, and there’s a huge social element. But it’s not a high-pressure social environment. You can sit and stare at your tiles and your card the whole time if you need time to figure out what you’re doing, or you can get to know the person across from you. So, there’s something there for everybody,” Parker shared.

For anyone curious to know more about mahjong, you’re far from the only one.

“Almost everybody who has signed up for our classes has been hearing about mahjong, so the curiosity is the draw. And then when they come in, the game is frustrating. Some people are afraid to try because there are so many rules and nuances with American mahjong, and it can feel overwhelming. But everybody we teach, by the end of the night, feels like, ‘Oh, I get it now. It makes sense, I was able to form a hand,’” said Parker. “We’ve just seen that transformation so many times that I would just encourage people not to be afraid. Try something new. You’re going to love it.”

For more information about Our Mahjong Table and their offerings, visit ourmahjongtable.com or follow them on Instagram @ourmahjongtable or Facebook under “Our Mahjong Table”.

“See what the obsession is about,” said Parker.

“And the obsession is real,” Beirdneau concluded.

Elizabeth Spencer | American Fork Citizen

With their uniforms arriving only one day before their first big gig, the American Fork Marching Band took to the field Monday night to share their show with the community.

“Performing in front of families is like a soft opening. It gives students the opportunity to perform in front of a large crowd without the fear of being judged like at a competition,” shared American Fork High School Band Director, Orien Landis.

The community of American Fork, along with friends and family of the marching band, were invited to see the band’s annual premiere of their show “The Lake Beneath.” This year’s music includes hints of Tchaikovsky’s “Swan Lake.”

“It’s not ‘Swan Lake,’ but it’s also not not ‘Swan Lake’,” Landis says of the show.

“The soft opening concept is a big deal for the tradition. However, I believe the real reason is to show the community’s support for the band. The students invest a large amount of time into preparing over the summer for competition season,” he added.

Mellophone player Aubrey Oler is in her fourth year with the marching band. “It’s really nice to show the people so close to us what we’ve been working on. It gives us an intro into performing officially in uniform,” said Oler.

“I think the family show is one of the most important things we do. It’s just a huge event for the community, and the community is really what it’s all about in American Fork. They love the band, and we love playing for our community,” said Dana Slabaugh, Director of Percussion.

This year’s show spotlights a moving violin solo, along with other featured instrumental solos and a student vocal ensemble. Band props include swans rotating through the field, along with flowing blue material resembling waves. Color guard members wear white with feathers in their hair, moving gracefully like swans on a lake.

“We have people designing for us from Boston to California,” said Landis. “This is a full nationwide program that we’ve put together for you tonight.”

“I think the show has a depth to it this year that feels more profound. The emotional connection to the music and the visual motifs allow the band to perform and connect to the show in a bigger way this year,” shared Landis. “I think audience members will be delighted by the nine 11-foot-tall swans that migrate around the field. We have over 1,000 yards of fabric that is utilized throughout the show this year. The soloists are stunning, and the colorguard has doubled in size this year, taking the visual palette to a new level. I think anyone who comes to the performance this year will recognize the depth of the investment this year.”

Senior trumpet player Ellie Collard thinks the family show is good preparation for the band season. She says the family show creates a setting where everyone can come together, and the band can show everyone what they have been working on. Knowing it’s her last family show, Collard says she is “happy and sad” because she is going to miss everyone.

“I think the family show is a really great opportunity to show the community what we’re presenting this year. It’s really early in the season, and so it’s a nice look at what we’ve accomplished so far, but it’s honestly nowhere close to what it’s going to be at the end of the season. I think it’s just a great way to see where we can take it,” said Tennyson Anderson, who plays center snare on drumline.

Band mom Krissy Law is in her 11th and final year of marching band. All four of her kids have participated in the marching band. Her youngest daughter is a senior this year performing with the color guard. “My heart is just full of joy for them, because they’ve worked so hard all summer long, and they finally get to show what they’ve been working on and what they put their blood, sweat and tears into. I just love it,” said Law.

“It gives them that first run in front of people, but even more than that, I bet some of them are more nervous for the Family Show than they are for the first show because of the community and the amount that they care. The community watches closely, and they want to know what American Fork Band is doing this year,” said Slabaugh.

“I love seeing the support that comes and watches us. The families come, people in the neighborhood come and watch. The band alumni come and watch,” shared flutist Samantha Dupaix, who is in her fourth and final year of marching band. Samantha likes all the movements the band is doing in the show this year and how they have used the fabric in the show. “It’s very interesting and different from previous years I have been in.”

Four of Samantha’s five siblings have also been in marching band, so the Dupaix family has participated in family night annually for many years. Samantha’s dad Geoff Dupaix shared, “We’ve always enjoyed having the kids come out on the field at the end to follow their band members.”

“After the family show, we like to take a picture of those who came. It’s fun to see the family group year after year. We have been coming to the family show since 2010. We only had a small break in tradition when we had a son that played football. Our daughter Samantha is the last of six children, five of which were in marching band,” shared Samantha’s mom, Ruth Ann Dupaix.

“I love the Family Show! It’s a great opportunity for the band to perform in a friendly atmosphere without the stress of competition. We get to see the show designers’ vision come to life visually with the music practiced all summer long. Family and friends come, and everyone is there for our band,” added Ruth Ann.

“For the community to come out to the family show is like everyone saying, ‘We recognize the commitment and investment that you have given, and we are excited to see what happens in the future this year. It is just such a big deal for the band to feel that kind of support from everyone,” shared Landis.

“It’s special because I know it’s the last one,” said Josh Crump, who plays tenor drums on the drum line. As a senior, he knows what to expect. The family show “gives us a look into what it’s like to perform before competition season, so we know what to expect when we’re actually performing. It sets the stage for what it’s like.”

“They blew it out of the water,” remarked Christine Anderson, who was at the Family Show. She has been a band mom since 2017 and called this year’s show powerful, beautiful and emotional. “There’s a lot of beautiful visuals, there’s a lot of amazing emotion, and their sound was incredible.”

The family show was John Anderson’s first time seeing the production. “I think the initial show, sometimes you can tell it needs work, but today’s first impression was really strong,” said John.

After their debut, Clarinet player Aubrey Coburn said, “I think we did really well. I think it was a pretty good run.”

“I feel just a sense of pride watching them; it’s amazing,” said Law. She recognizes the family show is especially beneficial for students who have never competed before. “For those first-year kids that have never done this before, it gives them a good practice of getting on and off the fields and being with an audience before they hit that first performance at a competition.”

This year, each performance and competition moves the band one beat closer to their main goal of competing at Grand Nationals in Indianapolis in November.

“I think the band is in a very good spot. In many ways they are exceeding where we have been in previous seasons, which is a great spot to be in as we prepare to go back to Bands of America Grand Nationals this year,” added Landis.

“We are looking forward to Grand Nationals. We are all looking forward to getting out to Indy again and going up against some of the bigger bands. It’s a great experience whenever we go out there,” Slabaugh said.

 For those who missed the Family Show and would like to see the band in full competition mode, AFHS is hosting the Mount Timpanogos Invitational on Oct. 24.

Elizabeth Spence | American Fork Citizen

The Sons of the Utah Pioneers (SUP) remembered the lives of three Mormon Battalion (MB) soldiers during a unique memorial service, adding special medallions to their graves in the American Fork Cemetery.

The MB was an infantry unit of the Army of the West during the Mexican-American War, 1846-1848. The volunteer army was made up of refugees emigrating west from Nauvoo, Illinois, who were members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. The men marched over 2,000 miles from Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, to San Diego, California, when California was part of Mexico.

The National Society of SUP Timpanogos Chapter honored the legacy of the three soldiers: Pvt William Kelly, Pvt Joseph Shipley, and Pvt. William Lance. The SUP remembered the soldiers, with Chairman Les Langford directing the service. Langford, who oversees scholarships, public relations, and monuments for the chapter, said the three soldiers in AF are the very first to be honored and have their graves marked for their service in the MB.

Langford found the soldiers’ descendants on FamilySearch and asked permission to honor the three men. Descendants who attended the tribute were emotional; even though they don’t remember their ancestors, they remember the accomplishments and are grateful for what they did. “They contributed so much. The Mormon Battalion was the longest march in US military history,” said Langford.

The special service included three men from the Utah Living History Association dressed in MB uniform giving a musket salute honoring the fallen, a bugler playing “Taps,” and descendants of each soldier placing a Mormon Battalion zinc medallion grave marker in the ground near each headstone.

Lehi resident and SUP National President, Wally Breitenstein, shared, “I felt grateful that I could participate in honoring soldiers who were considered peacemakers (they were not involved in combat) during the Mexican-American War. Among many contributions they made, those soldiers helped shape the American West by the trail they blazed on that long and arduous trek (the trail they carved out later facilitated trade, migrations, and set the path for future railways and highways).”

SUP Area Vice President and National Chairman of the MB Memorialization Project, Dan Adams, is chairman of a national three-year project to honor all MB Soldiers buried in Utah, Idaho, Mesa, Arizona, and Clark County, Nevada.

Adams called the ceremony to honor the three soldiers “a wonderful historical experience. We remembered the soldiers’ service in the Army of the West and their life as they raised families and contributed to their various communities.”

“After the war, a few of those MB soldiers settled in the American Fork area and were eventually buried in its cemetery. I was at the ceremony to learn their story and to help honor them. Not only was I present at the ceremony, I felt their presence through the legacy they left,” added Breitenstein.

After remembering the soldiers in the AF cemetery, the SUP went to the Pleasant Grove cemetery to honor three more members of the MB in another grave marker ceremony. George S. Clark, Thorit Peck and Samuel S. White were honored in the second memorial service.

“Today, we can remember, appreciate, and perhaps emulate, in part, that kind of peaceful service to our fellow citizens, whether we are members of a church, the military, or not. Peaceful service, in any capacity, goes a long way!” shared Breitenstein.

Residents may see the new medallions attached to the gravesites honoring each MB soldier at the AF cemetery in the following locations:

Kelly-section F 153 space 8

Lance-section I 242 space 2A

Shipley-section F 208 space 1

Jennifer Thomas | American Fork Citizen

American Fork local Elle Anderson, Miss Utah’s Teen, was crowned Miss America’s Teen 2027 on Sept. 5 in West Palm Beach, FL.

Anderson made history as the first Miss Utah’s Teen to win the national title, according to the Miss America organization. Anderson is enrolled at Brigham Young University, where she plans to study journalism and business.

All Miss America contestants compete in the following areas: personal interview, health and fitness, performance talent, evening wear, and onstage question, which evaluate communication, performance and presentation.

As Miss America’s Teen, Anderson will receive a $30,000 scholarship. The national win follows Anderson’s state title of Miss Utah’s Teen, where she was awarded an $8,000 scholarship.

Anderson also received $3,000 in scholarships at the national competition after winning the preliminary evening gown award and delivering an award-winning violin performance in the talent category.

“There are so many hands in this moment besides mine. And sitting here tonight, I feel so deeply humbled that I get to wear Utah across my heart,” wrote Anderson before the final night of competition.

Anderson continued, “These past ten days, I have also felt the people I miss very close to me. My little brother Stone, whose short life became the reason behind the work I now get to do through ‘Every Beat Matters.’”

“My nana, who I loved so deeply, who taught me to use my voice, to stand up for what I believe in, and to protect the people I love.”

“And my sweet friend Brynn, who passed away only a month ago, and who showed me what it looks like to love people completely, gently, and without condition.”

“I wish more than anything they could be here. But maybe, in a way I don’t know fully know how to explain, they are.”

During her year serving as Miss America’s Teen, Anderson will travel the country to promote her community service initiative, “Every Beat Matters: Confidence. Preparation. Rescue.” In honor of her brother, her initiative empowers children and teens with the confidence and skills needed to perform CPR in emergencies.

Since embracing her role earlier this year as Miss Utah’s Teen, Anderson has brought warmth and compassion to communities across the state, and she is now set to capture the nation’s heart as Miss America’s Teen.

Elizabeth Spencer | American Fork Citizen

With over 120K followers on Instagram, American Fork resident Ashley Blackhurst has become a popular “mom explorer,” sharing her adventures online. What started as seeking a field trip a day has turned into an exciting hobby that has taken the mother of three all across the Beehive State.

When Ashley started having babies, she found herself spending a lot more time at home. She has never been much of a homebody, so she made a point to get out with the kids for at least one adventure a day (even if some days it was just a trip to Walmart). She describes herself as a curious person and has always loved learning.

After her second child was born, Ashley quit teaching school to be home with her children. She realized there was a lot to Utah that she hadn’t yet explored. Being a stay-at-home mom and getting out regularly made it possible to see and learn more.

“I started researching and checking off a lot of new-to-me adventures within Utah. I would share about our adventures here and there on my personal social media account. A friend mentioned that she loved mimicking the adventures I shared with her own family. She suggested I make a separate page where I exclusively shared my adventures so she and others could use it as a resource. Not thinking much of it, I thought, ‘I could do that!’” Ashley shared.

The friend who encouraged Ashley to create a page, Susan Wagstaff, is a mom and grandma who’s “always looking” for fun ways to spend time with her kids and grandkids.

“Our family started planning our hikes and adventures around what Ashley shared. It was a great way to get new ideas. I told Ashley how much she inspired us with fun ways to spend time together as a family and that I had started sharing with other friends and family her posts so they could join in the fun too,” Wagstaff said.

With that encouragement and mom’s sharing her Instagram with other moms, Ashley created @utah.fun.guide, which now has 129k followers.

“I personally love being outside: hiking, going on walks, and exploring new places,” shared Ashley. The Blackhurst family spends a lot of time at the movies and trying new restaurants. They like to travel and make a point to explore what Ashley calls “this big, beautiful world.”

“We live for experiencing all the different cultures and tourist traps that we can. It’s probably what we do best,” Ashley added

During their family adventures, Dave, Ashley’s husband, says he’s learned that he loves ski resorts in the summertime. The mountaintop nachos at Bearclaw Cabin at Sundance or Snowbird’s all-day activity pass are two of the things he most looks forward to. Their son Cole says his favorite memories are digging for Trilobite fossils at U-Dig Fossils in Delta, or skiing at Snowbasin and Powder Mountain. And their youngest, Max, said his favorite adventure was at an indoor skydiving center, I-Fly in Ogden.

To Ashley, the best thing about being a content creator is that she has met some “wonderful people whom I would have never met otherwise. As an added bonus, I’ve also gotten to participate in a lot of unique events.”

Followers can find fun places across the state to see unique items such as Michael Jackson’s autographed fedora and sunglasses at Moon’s Rare Books in Provo.

If you’re looking for splash pads, pools, hikes, museums or restaurants with unique dining experiences, Ashley has you covered. If you would like to try Korean Snowflake ice cream or a fresh peach sundae, she has posted where to wet your whistle. Utah Fun Guide has showcased an indoor snow-skiing facility, escape rooms, a vintage boutique, a silver-mining ghost town, a unique Chinatown Supermarket and much more, all right here in Utah.

“Many businesses I’ve shared about have expressed a marked increase in customer volumes. It makes me so happy to know I’m helping these small businesses, because I know it’s not easy being a small business owner,” said Ashley.

With her large following, she recently began making a small income from her page. “It’s not a lot, but it’s neat that a silly hobby can turn into some spare change and an actual job.”

Besides showcasing fun activities, Ashley has also highlighted wonderful things happening in our community, like teachers from American Fork High School visiting incoming sophomores at home to welcome them before the school year starts.

Her single biggest accomplishment with her account came when she posted about the AFHS football team showing up to support the marching band at its home competition in 2024. That post got more attention than any other post in her account’s history, snowballing to 10.7 million views almost overnight. It led to the coach and team receiving an award and national recognition, and the band also receiving some well-deserved attention. That single post sparked national inquiries, reposts, interviews and reporting from NBC, ABC, ESPN, Good News Movement, and a dozen more. Ashley said it was “heart-warming to see our little town of American Fork taking up the headlines.”

When asked what some of her challenges have been, she replied, “Social media can be hard for a lot of reasons, but the hardest part: trolls. My account is aimed at introducing people to the goodness of Utah. I don’t try to be political or controversial on my page, but there is almost always someone who likes to sling mud or has something negative to say. It’s hard not to get sucked into the negativity.”

Another challenge she shared with being a content creator is that social media is always changing. Her page started as simple pictures and writing about their family adventures. “Now I have to produce entire videos about it! It takes a lot of time, pivoting, and motivation to keep up with the social media rollercoaster,” added Ashley.

When asked where some of her favorite places in Utah are, Ashley responded, “I do love the mountains probably the most of all. Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons have some of the most jaw-dropping scenery and family-friendly trails, and it’s just minutes away from home.”

“Even being a Utah native, I had no idea there was so much to do here,” she said. “I think everyone should actively explore and love where they live. I understand that everyone has different budgets and hobbies, but I try to share a diverse list of activities so there’s something for everyone.”

“This particular journey has enriched my life with millions of new experiences, memories, skills and knowledge. I hope it leads me to my next great adventure, whatever that may be.” Ashley concluded.

Elizabeth Spencer | American Fork Citizen

Alyson Beardall doesn’t skip a beat when following the musical lead her mother, Janice, instilled in her. This year, Alyson is one of four drum majors leading the American Fork High School Marching Band as they prepare to compete at Grand Nationals in November. Alyson’s mother, Janice, was also a drum major for the AFHS marching band 25 years ago.

Music runs deep in the family. Janice’s grandparents met in the marching band at Brigham Young University. Her grandmother continued to play the clarinet, even in her later years, in the American Fork Symphony. Because of their roots, keeping rhythm in the family came naturally to Janice and Alyson.

“I always wanted to be in the band like my two older brothers who played French horn and trombone,” shared Janice.

Janice spent most of her childhood in American Fork, except for her seventh and eighth grade years in Texas. In seventh grade, she chose to play the trumpet. The following year, Janice was allowed to march as an eighth-grader with the Natalia High School Marching Band, which performed only at football games.

Janice returned to American Fork for ninth grade, but at the time, freshmen were not allowed to march. As she entered her sophomore year, Janice was excited to march again with her brother, who was a senior, and her cousin, who was a junior. Janice graduated in 2002, after serving as drum major during the 2001 marching season.

“Following in my mom’s footsteps is a little challenging since her feet are bigger than mine. In all seriousness, I know my family supports me, so I appreciate that,” shared Alyson.

Alyson began playing in the band at American Fork Junior High during her seventh-grade year. She tried out all the instruments and ultimately chose the tuba. She played tuba in concert band during junior high and continued in high school.

During her freshman year, Alyson started on a sousaphone and was asked to switch to trombone for marching band to fill a spot. “I quickly learned to play trombone and marched it that year. I was also able to use the trombone to play in Jazz band my freshman year,” shared Alyson. The following year, she returned to playing the sousaphone.

Alyson isn’t the only Beardall family member on the band field this year. Her younger sister will march her first show as a freshman in the color guard.

Alyson shared that the reason she wanted to become a drum major was that she enjoys “helping people and supporting others. I watched the drum majors and admired how they served others, and I wanted to do the same.”

“It has been fun to watch Alyson learn and grow and become a leader. It’s always fun to see what things are the same, and what things have changed,” shared Janice.

“I have enjoyed watching Alyson grow and push herself to do hard things. I love to see that many of the core values of the band haven’t changed. Marching band is much more than a show; it’s hard work, determination, dedication and friendship. Values that are learned and kept long after the last note has been played,” concluded Janice.

April Slaughter | American Fork Citizen

A child’s hospital stay can narrow family life to the next test, the next update, and the next long stretch of waiting. In those hours, a warm meal, clean clothes, a toothbrush or a toy can offer something simple but deeply needed: a measure of comfort.

The Lehi Free Press is inviting residents throughout northern Utah County to help provide that comfort through a donation drive benefiting the Ronald McDonald House Family Room at Intermountain Primary Children’s Hospital, Miller Family Campus, in Lehi. The newspaper office will serve as a collection point through Oct. 1.

The Family Room is a place where parents and other caregivers can breathe, rest and tend to basic needs without going far from a hospitalized child. Located on the hospital’s third level, it includes a kitchen and dining area, living room, quiet meeting spaces, laundry facilities, showers, restrooms and four overnight guest rooms.

Families can find a meal, wash clothing, take a shower, rest for a while or sit in a quieter space while remaining close to their child’s bedside. All amenities are provided free of charge.

For a family focused on a child’s health, even a small practical need can become one more concern in an already difficult day. Readily available snacks, toiletries, paper goods and comfort items allow caregivers to meet those needs without leaving the hospital. A stuffed animal or game can also give a child a welcome distraction in unfamiliar surroundings.

Ronald McDonald House Mountain West has identified the following items as those most needed for the Lehi Family Room:

·       New toys, games, crafts or stuffed animals
·       Disposable forks and spoons
·       Large paper plates and bowls
·       Individually packaged snacks, including cookies and chips
·       New blankets
·       Travel-size toothpaste, deodorant and lotion
·       Hair ties, nail clippers and hairbrushes
·       Menstrual products

All donated items must be new to help protect the health of pediatric patients and their families. Food should be commercially packaged and unexpired.

The requested items offer ways to participate at nearly any price point. A resident may contribute a single blanket, a package of hair ties or a box of disposable utensils. Families, neighborhoods, schools, churches and businesses may also collect one category of supplies or assemble a larger donation from the list.

Each contribution will become part of a shared effort across surrounding communities to care for families during days that can feel frightening, exhausting and uncertain.

Donations may be brought to the Lehi Free Press office at 29 N. 100 W. in Lehi. The office is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Readers may bring one item or several, and every contribution will be added to the community collection.

The Lehi Family Room is part of Ronald McDonald House Mountain West’s network of services for families of pediatric patients. Unlike the organization’s residential house in Salt Lake City, a Family Room is located within a hospital, allowing caregivers to remain only steps from the medical units where their children are receiving care.

Community volunteers also help make meals available through Ronald McDonald House Mountain West’s “Together at the Table” program. Groups of up to eight people may plan, purchase, prepare and serve food at the Lehi location and are asked to provide enough for about 30 individuals. Food must be store-bought, catered or prepared in the on-site kitchen rather than in a volunteer’s home.

Those who prefer to donate directly or want to view the organization’s broader wish list may visit ronaldmcdonaldhousemountainwest.org/give/inkind. Information about volunteering to provide a meal is available at ronaldmcdonaldhousemountainwest.org/serve/meals.

No donation can remove the fear that accompanies a child’s illness or injury. It can, however, make one part of a difficult day gentler. A snack within reach, clean toiletries, a soft blanket, or something new for a child to hold can remind families that they are not facing those days alone.

The Lehi Free Press encourages readers across northern Utah County to support families by bringing new donations to the newspaper office through Oct. 1.

Elizabeth Spencer | American Fork Citizen

This summer, recent Skyridge High School Graduate and American Fork resident Edyn Armitage took the stage by storm. Edyn was given the lead role at the Utah Festival Opera Musical & Theatre (UFOMT) production of Amélie the Musical (Teen Edition) in Logan, UT.

“I auditioned for Amélie and was so excited to be cast in the title role. What I love most about playing Amélie is discovering the depth of her character and the deeper meaning behind the story, and I also love the beautiful music,” wrote Edyn. “Throughout this process, I’ve learned so much from working with such a talented and creative team, and it has helped me grow as a performer.”

The production is based on the book by Craig Lucas with music composed by Daniel Messé and lyrics written by Messé and Nathan Tysen. Students from the Utah High School Musical Theatre Awards performed as the cast of Amélie. Vanessa Ballam, daughter of the famous singer and actor Michael Ballam, directed the show.

The story is about Amélie Poulin, a shy and isolated waitress in Paris who finds her voice by creating a secret world of kindness for those around her. She learns how to interact with others, finds a mysterious photo book, takes a risk on love, and finds a more meaningful and fulfilling life.

“One of the biggest things I have taken away from this story is how important connection is and how much we need the people around us. Amélie reminds us that small acts of kindness have a rippling effect, to reach out to others, and learn to forgive ourselves for the things we carry,” added Edyn.

“Watching Edyn portray Amélie has been an incredible experience. Edyn has dived deep into Amélie’s character and life experiences and does a terrific job emoting what it feels like to be lonely, awkward, and unsure of herself,” shared Edyn’s mother, Jessica Armitage.

“I hope audiences leave feeling inspired to connect with others and appreciate the little moments that make life meaningful,” shared Edyn.

Amélie is a dreamer and has a vivid imagination, which makes the story both humorous and whimsical. In the end, Amélie finds a piece of herself and overcomes her challenges by serving her family, coworkers, and many members in her community. The story is inspiring for all ages.

“This whole journey with UFOMT has been such a great learning experience both on and offstage. Edyn has grown as an actor, made many dear friends, and has loved being a part of this beautiful production. Like Amélie, I hope that Edyn continues to follow her dreams, show kindness and service to others, and find purpose and meaning in her own life,” concluded Jessica.

Edyn began acting as a seven-year-old with American Fork Youth Theater, which is now Timpanogos Arts Foundation, or Timp Artd. In high school, she acted at both American Fork and Skyridge High Schools. She played the “Sour Kangaroo” in Seussical, Paula in “Catch Me If You Can,” and was in an ensemble for “Hadestown” at AFHS. Edyn most recently played Sheridan in “Mamma Mia” at Skyridge her senior year.

“I fell in love with acting since I was a child, and being able to tell stories and connect with people through theater is what makes theater so special to me,” Edyn concluded.

By: Elizabeth Spencer

American Fork Citizen

After six years working at American Fork High School, Peter Glahn announced he is leaving his position as principal to serve as assistant superintendent for the new Timpanogos School District.

“It’s been my favorite job that I’ve ever had. It has been so rewarding,” said Glahn of his position as principal. He calls his service at AFHS a “dream job,” working annually with five assistant principals, over 100 teachers, and 2,300 students. Glahn has worked on “creating a culture where people want to be.”

Those who work close to him feel that culture. AFHS Assistant Principal, Cole Perry, shared, “We are going to miss Mr. Glahn. His leadership, humor and ability to genuinely care for others have made a lasting impact on our staff, students and the community.” 

“Because of Peter, there is a culture at AFHS that feels like home — a place where students and staff feel supported, valued and inspired. We are so grateful for the impact he has made here,” shared school secretary Mary Scharman. 

 “A strong leader makes all the difference, and Peter Glahn has made an incredible impact at AFHS. Over the past six years, Peter has led by example. He has a gift for bringing out the very best in our students and wants them to receive the very best education,” added Scharman. 

Glahn recognizes how unique AFHS staff is, stating, “Some of our most veteran teachers are some of our best learners, some of our most adaptable. That culture was here when I got here.”  

AFHS teacher Sam Beeson wrote, “One of Mr. Glahn’s greatest attributes is his ability to distinguish the light things from the heavy things. He refuses to take the wrong things seriously, and he refuses to take the right things lightly. I think this comes from a uniquely distinguishing characteristic that so few people possess: he is a fantastic listener. He enjoys others’ opinions, stories and triumphs. On the other hand, to Peter Glahn, no problem has ever been greater than a manageable solution. He is so very gifted at navigating difficult situations. I’m going to miss him big time.”

“My success has been because of the people I work with. This is the job that I dreamed about. I think the people that I got to work with helped me make my dream come true,” said Glahn of his time at AFHS. 

In college, Glahn originally wanted to study communications, but after marrying a schoolteacher, he realized he loved being in a school setting. Glahn said he wanted to be around kids and envisioned being a principal.

His career in education began by teaching history, social studies and sociology at Mountain View High School. He later became an assistant principal there and, in 2015, was named assistant principal of the year in Utah. 

Before coming to AFHS, Glahn worked as principal for five years at Timberline Middle School.

Glahn said that when the job of principal at AFHS became available, he talked to administrators and said that people who had worked at the school would often say American Fork was their favorite. “So when this opened up, I was like, ‘This is one that I want to do,’” said Glahn. “I’ve heard too many good things. I knew a couple of people who worked here already, and I thought, ‘I want to be a part of this.’” 

“I didn’t have to prove myself,” noticed Glahn. He says he felt like the staff wanted him to succeed. “They knew that my success is tied to their success and the kids’ success, and that’s what they wanted. Immediately, I felt that.”  

 Glahn’s first year was during COVID, when everyone was wearing masks. He called it a “galvanizing year for me, my team, and for the faculty and staff.” At the conclusion of COVID, Glahn said, “We felt like we’d done something hard together.”

Glahn is now reflecting on special moments at AFHS, including when the marching band took eighth place at Grand Nationals and when the athletic department won six state titles in a single school year. He and his team have spent time outside of school hours supporting all the extracurricular activities the students are involved in. 

“I enjoy going to the musicals, I love sports, and I like kids. I love learning. I love seeing kids figure things out and grow.” Glahn noted that he loves to see kids shine, saying, “We are just there to reflect the light that’s happening.”

Glahn also remembers the hard things the school has gone through, such as student tragedies. The one thing that keeps him going through the difficult times, however, is a drawer of gratitude letters from students, teachers and parents.

“Keeping the culture here is just daily habits of doing the little things; standing at the door, being in the halls when kids are in the halls, talking to them, highlighting the things that they do. It’streating people with love and respect and dignity,” said Glahn. He even spent time during his summers looking through yearbooks trying to memorize as many names as possible. “If you use a kid’sname, it’s like a superpower,” said Glahn. 

 “What is wonderful about Peter is how deeply he cares for the staff, teachers and especially the students. Their success isn’t just part of his job — it’s his top priority. You will find him in classrooms, sitting in the commons surrounded by students, supporting them at their athletic games, or even joining in on school plays. I don’t think the parents really see how much time Peter spends here, but the students notice. We all notice. We love and respect him because he’s genuine, approachable, and always encouraging everyone to be their best,” added Scharman. “His energy is upbeat, and his presence is felt throughout the entire school.”

 Student Body President Adi Gardner wrote, “Mr. Glahn has always been a cornerstone for me during my high school years. I knew he was always going to be there for me when I needed help and support. He is always eager to get involved with the student body through the assemblies and making sure to check in on how the students are doing through casual conversation.”

 One memory of Glahn that happened this school year stands out to Gardner. “He and I were welcoming students to school on one Friday morning, and he looked at me and said, ‘This is my favorite part of my job, getting to know these students, and how cool they are, and everything they do outside of school. And that’s part of your job, too.’ … Mr. Glahn is someone that I truly look up to in my position as student body president and has been a great example to me of what leadership means. Compassion, empathy, kindness and, most importantly, relationships,” Gardner shared. 

 The night before sharing news of his departure with school staff, Glahn was getting his thoughts down on paper. The second he wrote, “I won’t be the principal of American Fork High School next year,” he felt all the emotions, covered his face with his hands, and cried. “I just thought of all the people and all these faces that I will be leaving.” 

“You’re not just leaving the school; this place is the people. Amazing people. I won’t have the frequency with these people every day. A lot of my job has been just setting a feeling, a tone, a culture.” Glahn says cultivating that culture is something that you have to do every day.  

 “While it’s hard to imagine AFHS without him, especially his singing in the Front Office, we are excited to see what’s ahead. His vision, energy and passion will be such a great asset to the Timpanogos District. We know he will continue to do amazing things. Peter will be deeply missed, but he won’t be forgotten,” concluded Scharman.

When asked what advice he would give the new principal, Glahn replied, “So many people care about the success of our students. You don’t have to do too much to motivate the people here. You’re lucky,  you have the best kids to work with.”  

“American Fork High School will surely miss his bright smiles lighting up the halls, but will never forget the fun experiences he has created for us throughout high school. At AFHS, things are always changing, and Glahn has definitely contributed to the legacy. We wish him good luck in a higher position in his career, but hope he will never forget the words ‘Dear old AF High, we will love you ‘til we die … and always fight for AF High,” concluded Gardner.

“I told the seniors I’m graduating with them,” Glahn said of his departure. He will gradually move into his new position and has already had some meetings with the new district. Glahn says it’s cool to see the three new districts working in collaboration together right now. He is excited to create a new culture in the Timpanogos School District. 

 “I am dedicated to creating a role where I’m not away from the reason why we do this work. The students have always been the reason,” said Glahn.

Beky Beaton / American Fork Citizen

American Fork’s David Dean didn’t win the genetic lottery when it came to size. Listed at a generous 5’9” on the roster of the 1976 Caveman championship basketball team but repeatedly cited as 5’7” elsewhere, he was a small man in a big man’s game.

However, he seemed to understand from the very beginning that his stature could not limit the size of his heart. He led with that, and by so doing cast ripples of influence like a stone in the water far beyond his immediate reach.

It started very early. In 1970 as a seventh grader, Dean was making buzzer-beaters to win Bantam basketball games. The next year, he finished second in a track event at the Alpine field day, scored in double digits in some Bantam games and reached the semifinals in the junior high tennis tournament.

A long-time piano student, he also played clarinet in the band. In 1972, he attended the 2nd annual Cougar Basketball Camp, was elected president of the Boys League at school and served as a Home Room Representative.

At the end of eighth grade, he received a Certificate of Achievement for Scholarship and a Physical Fitness Presidential Award.

As he went on to high school, his muti-faceted contributions continued. He won the “No. 1 Hustler” trophy at the Cougar Basketball Camp and was vice-president of the Boys League. He earned multiple honors in basketball and football plus city and division trophies in tennis.

As a sophomore he played varsity tennis plus sophomore basketball and football. He was also a member of the chess team and served as executive vice president of his grade class in Seminary. He played the organ and served in a leadership position for his church youth group as well.

As a junior, Dean was chosen to attend Boys State and was elected as a State Delegate and City Councilman there. He earned varsity letters in football, basketball and tennis that year and also played on the baseball team. He received All-Region 6 honors in football and was voted team MVP in tennis.

Dean capped his prep experiences with a remarkable senior year. Anne Christensen, his high school counselor, wrote a scholarship letter of recommendation for him which included the following comments, among others: “David Dean is an exceptional young man who is very well-rounded. …

“David is currently serving as our Student Body President and doing a very good job. … David Dean is currently vice-president of the National Honor Society and has a 3.85 grade point average. … David has a very pleasant personality and is well-mannered and polite in all situations.”

His sports year was off the charts. He was one of three captains of the football team, played both split end (wideout) as well as defensive back and earned All-State Second Team honors. His speed and hands drew recruiting interest from in-state colleges even though he only weighed 135 pounds.

Dean was a co-captain and point guard of the basketball team too and helped lead the Cavemen to the title. He averaged eight points per game for the season but made 101 assists and 60 steals as well.

During the state tournament he averaged 9.7 points on 55 percent shooting with 23 assists, 19 steals and nine rebounds.

He was named the MVP of the 3A tournament and also received All-State MVP honors from the Deseret News, the Salt Lake Tribune and the Provo Daily Herald. In addition, longtime Ute and KUTV sports announcer Bill Marcroft selected him as the state “Playmaker of the Year” for the second consecutive time.

One writer summed it up this way: “Coach Carl Ingersoll and his team have won many post season honors with Dave Dean elected to everyone’s all-everything team.”

He collected varsity letters in tennis and track along with those other two sports and was offered multiple college scholarships in both athletics and leadership. He ultimately went on to BYU on one of the latter.

As impressive as all these achievements are – and this list doesn’t include everything – they can’t begin to give you a full sense of what kind of young man Dave really was.

When interviewed earlier this year about the championship run, he quickly gave credit to others for his accomplishments, starting with his parents Owen and Mary, and his athletic older siblings.

Owen coached him in his early years and laid the foundation for his later successes along with his older brothers Craig, Steve and Eric. Dave also singled out classmate Bruce Merkley as a source of inspiration for him.

Bruce wasn’t a teammate, or even an athlete. He was confined to a wheelchair because of a childhood illness, but he was the team’s biggest fan and always cheered the players on. Dave presented him with a signed ball on behalf of the team at the city booster celebration banquet following their title run.

Bruce passed away not long afterwards and requested that the ball be returned to the school as one of his last wishes. It’s still there today, in a display case along with his photo. Even after 50 years, Dave couldn’t speak of him without emotion.

Dave also credited the mentorship of coaches and other classmates for “what made me the athlete I had become.” His list included “Bob Eckles, Carl Ingersoll, Don Mower, Davis Knight, Wendell Hansen, all my amazing teammates and Dear Old A.F. High.”

His enthusiastic school spirit was infectious. As Student Body President, he originated the legendary AFHS chant familiar to subsequent generations of students:

“Good morning Student Body!” … (Good morning Mr. President!)

“How do you feel?” … (Proud!)

“Proud of what?” … (Proud to be a Caveman!)

Dave also earned the respect and camaraderie of his opponents. Wesley Ruff, ABC4 sports anchor, played for region foe Springville. “Dave and I became really good friends,” he said.

“He was not their best basketball player, but he was the heart and soul of that team,” Ruff continued. “He was fast, scrappy and would do anything to help his team win. It sucked to guard him, which was my responsibility most of the time.”

Ruff told how the two of them often chatted in the stands while watching the JV teams play as they waited for their own turn. “He was a good kid. He had an athletic gift and he knew how to use it, and he had a drive to succeed that couldn’t be denied.”

The two of them later competed in the same events at the state track meet in the sprints and relays. Eventually they hung out together in the Language Training Mission as they prepared for their service and they remain friends to this day.

Dave told the story himself about what happened once the season ended. “After the nets came down and the awards were over, Utah selected 20 basketball players to compete in two games. One was at AF High School. From those 20, 10 were chosen to play a game against the 10 best players from Arizona.

“The game took place at the U of U. We won in double overtime. I entered the locker room, visited with a few coaches and told them I was putting away my jersey for a few years to serve a mission. I attended BYU on a leadership scholarship.

“During the semester at BYU, Harry Anderson (an assistant basketball coach) asked me to come to their walk-on tryouts. Later in his office he presented me with a BYU uniform as part of the team. I declined the offer and said, ‘Thank you, I’m going on a mission.’

“I served two years in El Salvador. I broke one mission rule. I received a call from Steve Craig – a BYU player also serving in El Salvador. He had lined up a basketball game against the country’s national team.” Both men played in that game, but diplomacy forbids reporting the result.

Once he got home, Dave got busy with living his life and never officially continued his playing career. Instead, he gave decades of service as a coach in youth leagues and at his Alma Mater, also continuing to play whenever or wherever he could and becoming a legendary booster dad.

He is retired from competing now, after multiple surgeries on worn-out body parts, but he maintains his fitness with yoga and still plays golf.

When the chance for the 1976 team reunion came along, Dave was at the center of it all, making the calls to invite his teammates to come and hosting a night of old memories and shared laughter before the official event at the school.

The heart and soul of the team once more … just like he always was.