Author: Provo Music Magazine

Provo Music Magazine is an online music magazine that covers the latest music releases and news about the Provo Music scene.

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Provo City News

From Provo? You Could Run for Office

Photo by Michael Beener
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By Charlie G. Patreus

Provo City residents, mark your calendars! The time has come for those with aspirations of public service to step up and actively participate in shaping the future of the city. From June 1 to June 7, 2023 (excluding weekends), Provo City is officially opening its filing period for residents considering running for city office.

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Excitingly, four crucial municipal seats will be up for election: Council Districts 1, 3, and 4, along with the Citywide Council II. If you have ever felt the desire to influence strategic decision-making, contribute to policy formation, and truly make a difference in Provo, this is your moment.

Here’s a map displaying the City Council Municipal Districts with precinct boundaries:

In the event that more than two candidates file for a particular office, a primary election will be held on Tuesday, August 15, 2023.

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To officially become a candidate, filing a declaration of candidacy is imperative. This step must be completed in person with the City Recorder during the designated filing period. Office hours are 8 AM – 5 PM, from June 1 to June 7, with weekends excluded.

A filing fee, set at $75, is an integral part of the candidacy filing process and represents a modest investment towards the prospect of making a significant impact on Provo City.

Should you have any questions or concerns, City Recorder Heidi Allman, is available. Reach out to her by phone at 801-852-6524 or via email at recorder@provo.org.

The Municipal Election in Provo City will take place in 2023, with the Primary Election scheduled for Tuesday, August 15, and the general election set for Tuesday, November 7. Similar to previous years, this will be a vote-by-mail election.

Active registered voters can expect to receive their ballots in the mail approximately 2-3 weeks before each election. Ballots can be returned at any of the 25 drop boxes located throughout Utah County. These drop boxes are accessible 24/7 and will accept ballots until 8 PM on election night.

For a comprehensive list of drop box locations, visit voteprovo.com. Alternatively, you may also choose to return your ballot by mail; however, it must be postmarked no later than the day before Election Day.

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University News

Transferring to UVU from Snow College Just Got Easier

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By Charlie G. Patreus

A new agreement between Snow College and Utah Valley University (UVU) is set to benefit students in good academic standing who seek to further their education. Under this agreement, Snow College students who successfully complete an associate degree or earn 60 credits toward third-year status will be granted acceptance into UVU’s Integrated Studies Program.

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UVU, an open-enrollment institution, will automatically recognize Snow College’s general education foundations course as fulfilling its own knowledge integrated (IS 2000) requirement. This arrangement provides students with the opportunity to immediately embark on their third year of studies.

Heather Holland, assistant professor of English at Snow College, is the brain behind this collaborative effort. As a UVU integrated studies graduate herself, she views this agreement as a testament to the value of teamwork within Utah’s System of Higher Education (USHE). “Holland believes that the agreement will enable interested students to seamlessly transition to UVU and continue their educational journey. “This will allow students who are interested to make a seamless transfer to UVU and continue their education,” she says.

Heather Holland. Faculty headshot courtesy of Snow College.
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UVU has also forged agreements with other educational institutions. For instance, there is a fast-track program that expedites UVU students into the University of Utah’s Master of Healthcare Administration program, accompanied by access to scholarships. Additionally, UVU has partnered with Mountainland Technical College to facilitate the transfer of credits from MTECH licensed practical nurse graduates into UVU’s Nursing Program.

“All of the agreements are good news for students,” said Frederick H. White, director of UVU’s Integrated Studies Program. “The agreement with Snow College allows for direct access into the Integrated Studies Program at UVU, which offers students a unique opportunity to create their own degree for their specific career goals. Students select two minors out of more than 70 offered at the university and combine these minors in meaningful ways through a capstone paper or project at the end of their academic career. We are excited to admit Snow College students into our program and accelerate their education.”

These agreements represent a step forward for students, providing them with enhanced opportunities and streamlined pathways toward their desired educational and career outcomes. The collaborative efforts within Utah’s System of Higher Education serve as a promising example of how institutions can work together to benefit the broader student community.

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Provo City News

Reclaiming Utah Lake: Increased Funding Will Reduce Reeds

Utah Lake shorline. Photo by Ethan Gowans.
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By Zach Collier

The Utah state government has given Utah County $113,088 to combat the growth of the common reed. Officially known as Phragmites Australis, it was introduced to American waterways in the 1800s and has proliferated around Utah Lake and other bodies of water in Utah since the 2000s, posing a threat to native vegetation by competing for natural resources.

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The grant, approved by the Utah County Commission on May 10, comes from the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food. Jake Johnson, Utah County’s weed control supervisor, says it’s important to remove these plants in order to enhance wildlife habitats, promote natural vegetation, improve recreational access, and reduce the risk of fires.

The primary focus of the funding will be on Phragmites control, which involves spot treatments with herbicides and subsequent mechanical treatments such as mowing to facilitate future follow-up actions.

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Since 2006, Utah has been actively working on an eradication program for Phragmites, utilizing various methods including herbicide spraying, crushing, mowing, and even allowing cows to graze on the plants. The restoration of Utah Lake’s shoreline has been a priority since 2010, resulting in the removal of over 70% of the Phragmites biomass, leading to improved ecosystem health and biodiversity. The Utah Lake Authority has implemented an adopt-a-shoreline program to maintain the cleanliness of access points, with all 27 points being adopted.

The agreement for the removal and restoration of Phragmites along the Utah Lake shoreline will take effect on July 1 and expire on June 30, 2024. However, since the invasive species is difficult to fully eliminate due to numerous tributaries feeding into the lake, the need for continued funding is anticipated.

Other efforts to ensure the long-term health of Utah Lake include fisheries management, algae remediation, the nearly-complete Provo River Delta Project, and revitalization projects at marinas and harbors throughout the lake.

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Provo City News

Renderings Released of Church Renovation in Downtown Provo

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By Mike Romero

Earlier this month, Keeping the Faith in Downtown Provo and the Provo Community Congregational United Church of Christ held an open house gala celebration with a 1920’s and 1950’s theme – the eras the historic buildings of the Church were constructed. Located on 200 North University in downtown Provo, the A-frame building is a staple of the cityscape.

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Keeping the Faith in Downtown Provo Co-chairs David Lewis and Kena Mathews, along with architect Steven Cornell, spoke of the exciting plans for the church. They unveiled renderings of the restoration of the exterior, as well as the expansion of the sanctuary, housing the historic 1892 45-rank pipe organ that was rescued in 2022 and creating a larger space for performances of choirs and orchestras. Additionally, a new fellowship hall and kitchen for church and community events will be built, plus a bell tower that includes an elevator to access all floors of the building.

Efforts to renovate the Church have been ongoing. So far, they’ve raised $180,000 out of a $2 million goal. Further donations are being sought to make this project become a reality. Visit KeepingtheFaithProvo.org to learn more, and check out the video presentation for the building below.

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Orem City News

New Public Facilities Zone in Orem After City Council Vote

Sign for Hillcrest Elementary School in southeastern Orem, Utah, February 2017. Courtesy Wikimedia Commons.
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By Mike Romero

With discussions surrounding school closures, boundary changes, and the potential formation of new school districts in Orem, the Orem City Council took action on Tuesday by implementing changes to various zones, consolidating them into a single Public Facilities Zone.

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The vote in favor of the zone change was 6-1, with Council member Tom Macdonald casting the lone dissenting vote. Macdonald expressed concerns about the lack of communication and collaboration with the school district prior to issuing public notices about the proposed changes.

The purpose of the new zone is to safeguard public land for future educational institutions and parks. It also serves as a preemptive measure to prevent the Alpine School District from selling its land without obtaining approval from the Orem Planning Commission and City Council. Approximately 90% of Orem’s land is already developed.

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Council members emphasized their apprehension regarding future growth and land requirements, especially considering the possibility of private and charter schools being established in the city. This concern was heightened after the legislature approved $8,000 in funding for each student, regardless of the type of school they attend. This includes public, private, charter, or homeschooling—according to Ryan Clark, assistant city manager.

During the public hearing, questions were raised regarding whether the rezoning was intended to facilitate the sale of Alpine School District (ASD) properties at a lower price. However, it was clarified that the city had paid the appraised value for Hillcrest Elementary when it closed, and the same principle would apply to other schools. The city holds the first right to purchase any school property according to state law.

Council member Terry Peterson argued that ASD had closed Hillcrest Elementary, Geneva Elementary, and Polaris High School without any financial compensation being returned to Orem schools. Tensions between Orem city government and Alpine School District have run high in recent years.

“I think we can do more by working together,” Council member Jeff Lambson stated.

City attorney Stephen Earl recommended preserving the property, citing concerns about the irreversible loss of land if ASD were to sell it to developers. He questioned where schools would be built in the future if the need arose.

“As far as I’m concerned, regardless of ASD’s involvement, this is simply a matter of common sense,” Mayor Dave Young asserted. “We never anticipated school closures. Amidst all this uncertainty, we must preserve our lands.”

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University News

See BYU Theatre’s 2023-24 Performance Schedule

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By Charlie G. Patreus

BYU Theatre recently unveiled its complete lineup of performances for the next season, featuring two shows each in October and November, one in March and April, and an additional spring show.

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The upcoming shows will take place in the BYU West Campus theaters, namely the West Campus Mainstage Theatre, West Campus Studio Theatre, and West Campus Black Box Theatre. These venues have become the primary locations for performances since the closure and demolition of the long-standing Harris Fine Arts Center, a prominent fixture in campus performing arts community for over a generation.

The October productions will include Wait Until Dark and the Microburst New Play Festival. Wait Until Dark made its Broadway debut in 1966, was adapted into a film starring Audrey Hepburn in 1967, and was last performed at BYU in 1987. The play revolves around a blind housewife who becomes the target of three con men due to the criminal activities of her deceased husband.

The Microburst New Play Festival is an annual event that showcases student writing and performances, providing a platform for young artists and introducing audiences to “the next generation of playwrights who will change the world.”

Michael Ballif as Julius Caesar during BYU’s 2021 season. Photo by Jaren Wilkey/BYU
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November’s shows include the children’s classic The Secret Garden and The Boy at the Edge of Everything. March will bring the production of The House of Desires, written by 16th-century Mexican poet and nun Sor Juana Inés De La Cruz. This will be the play’s debut performance at BYU.

In April, audiences will have the opportunity to enjoy The Tempest. The final show of the spring season will be Blithe Spirit, a play by Noël Coward that explores a socialite’s encounter with a seance gone awry. Spooky.

Stephanie Breinholt, Artistic Director of BYU Theatre, expressed excitement about the new season, stating, “After an incredibly successful inaugural season in the West Campus venues, BYU Theatre is tailoring its 2023-2024 season to these innovative new spaces and collaborating with our resilient and creative students and faculty. The upcoming season will explore a wide range of genres and styles.”

Season tickets will go on sale Wednesday, May 24 and can be purchased online or in person at the Marriott Center box office.

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Provo City News

Provo Band Wins NPR’s Tiny Desk Competition

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By Mike Romero

On May 16, 2023, NPR Music made an announcement during Morning Edition revealing the winner of the ninth edition of their Tiny Desk Contest: Little Moon. The victorious band is composed of Provo locals. They’ll have the opportunity to perform at NPR’s Tiny Desk before heading out on the Tiny Desk Contest On The Road tour.

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The band is made up of Emma Hardyman (lead vocals/guitar), Nathan Hardyman (bass/guitar), Bly Wallentine (keys/bass), Bridget Jackson (harp), Chris Shemwell (drums), and Grace Johnson (electric guitar/keys). Little Moon was chosen from an impressive pool of nearly 6,000 submissions representing all 50 states, Washington, DC, the US Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico.

The Tiny Desk Contest On The Road tour will return in 2023. This victory tour, which has expanded to eight cities this year, provides an opportunity to witness Little Moon’s live performances alongside a showcase of vibrant local music. Additionally, two local Contest acts will join the lineup in most cities.

Read the full story at ProvoMusicMagazine.com.

Make sure to follow Little Moon on Instagram and check out “Wonder Eye” Below!

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University News

BYU Students Engineer The Most Fuel-Efficient Vehicle in North America

Photo by Brooklynn Jarvis/BYU Photo
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By Mike Romero

Engineering students at Brigham Young University (BYU) have achieved a remarkable feat by constructing the most fuel-efficient vehicle not only in the United States but also across the Americas. Their creation, known as a Supermileage vehicle, can travel an astounding distance of 1,915.83 miles per gallon. This remarkable achievement earned them the first-place title at the prestigious Shell Eco-marathon, an international competition that brings together teams from North and South America to develop the most fuel-efficient vehicles on the planet.

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The Shell Eco-marathon took place at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, a distance of 1,531 miles from Provo, where BYU is located. BYU’s car could have easily coasted to Indianapolis on less than a gallon of gas. Despite its remarkable fuel efficiency, the vehicle can only reach a maximum speed of 25 miles per hour. However, for the BYU Supermileage Team, speed is not the focus; their goal is to excel in long-distance efficiency.

Photo by Brooklynn Jarvis/BYU Photo
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Throughout the competition, BYU’s car consistently outperformed other vehicles, surpassing the second-place car by over 100 miles per gallon. BYU had previously participated in the Eco-marathon but had not competed for four years due to the pandemic. Given their absence, the team’s expectations were modest. However, they devoted themselves wholeheartedly to the competition, demonstrating unwavering focus and determination.

Overall, the BYU Supermileage Team’s triumph at the Shell Eco-marathon showcased their remarkable engineering skills, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities. Their accomplishment not only earned them recognition as the best in the country but also solidified their position as the leading fuel-efficient vehicle builders on this side of the globe.

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Provo City News

Road Closures Due to Bridge Construction

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By Richard Provost

Representatives from Provo Neighborhood District 5 recently announced updates to the Provo Pedestrian Bridge Construction. This district includes the Dixon, Timp, Franklin, Franklin South, Downtown, Joaquin, Maeser, and East Bay neighborhoods. The overhead pedestrian bridge is being built by Utah Transit Authority (UTA) in partnership with Provo City.

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The bridge will span two FrontRunner tracks and two Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR) tracks, at approximately 600 South and 100 West in Provo. This pedestrian bridge will provide a more efficient and safe alternative for people to access the Provo FrontRunner station. Additional improvements will include pedestrian access to the structure.

There will be a week-long full road closure along a section of 600 south. All lanes will be blocked from Monday morning on May 8 through Friday, May 12. This closure will help crews finish work beneath the road.

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Reduced visibility at the corner of 100 West and 600 South makes it difficult for motorists traveling south on 100 West and turning on to 600 South to see when it is safe to pull out. They have asked that motorists on 600 South please slow down and be cautious when approaching this intersection.

Construction crews have completed the steel for the south tower column and will be pouring the concrete cap (to support the bridge) this Friday. Steel is being placed this week for the north tower concrete cap.

Dust, noise, and vibrations will occur during working hours but will be more impactful during the period when vertical columns are driven into the ground. Parking disruptions at the Provo Station and on the 600 South shoulder. No night work is expected.

Construction began on January 30, 2023 and is expected to end in October 2023. The bridge will be open to the public by November 2023.

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Provo City News

Mayor Michelle Kaufusi Delivers Provo State of the City Address

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By Zach Collier

On February 2, 2023, Provo Mayor Michelle Kaufusi delivered a TEDx-styled address to an audience of locals in the Covey Center for the Arts in downtown Provo, Utah. After being welcomed to the stage by the Provo City Communications Director Nicole Martin, she delivered an address focused on the exceptional nature of the city.

Provo Named Best Performing City

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Last January, Mayor Kaufusi was flown to Beverly Hills, CA for the Milken Institute’s 25th Annual Global Conference. There, Provo was named the best-performing city in the United States. Discussing Provo in an interview, Miami Mayor Francis Suarez humorously said he was thinking of changing their name to Provo to see if that wins them first place in the future.

2 Landmark Developments

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When discussing her two biggest achievements from the last year, Mayor Kaufusi pointed to the newly constructed Provo Public Safety Building/City Hall and the new Provo Airport Terminal.

Mayor Kaufusi shared a story of a sad tour through the old Provo Public Safety Building when she first entered office. Originally built for 40 police officers, it had grown to house 120 officers. Some were working out of closets, others in hallways. She expressed her gratitude to Provo citizens for voting to pass the bond that improved circumstances for Provo police and firefighters. The new facilities help them to recruit more effectively, work more efficiently, and retain top talent.

She also shared that written plans from past mayors predicted that a new airport terminal would be built in another 20-30 years. Kaufusi couldn’t find any research or opinions that indicated it couldn’t be done sooner. Through the help of state and federal grants as well as partners in the community, the new Provo Airport Terminal was constructed debt-free. This new terminal provided 1,020 new jobs and $130 million in additional annual revenue to the local economy.

Planning for the Future

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Mayor Kaufusi also discussed Provo’s growing rainy day fund, which sits at $40 million. She was also proud of her team’s efforts to educate the community on the state’s drought, which led to 728 million gallons of water saved over the last calendar year compared to the 20 year average. She also announced two new parks (Quail Orchard Park and the Regional Sports Park) and two new bridges (one over the FrontRunner downtown and the other over University Avenue near the old Provo High School).

After her presentation, other presenters took the stage: Bill Hulterstrom of the United Way, Carri Jenkins of BYU, Norm Wright of the Noorda College of Osteopathic Medicine, and Chad Linebaugh of Sundance.

You can watch Mayor Kaufusi’s entire address below.

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