Category: Provo City News

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Provo City News

Provo Tech Company Qualtrics Announces New Software

Qualtrics headquarters in Provo, Utah.
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By Mike Romero

Qualtrics, one of Provo’s largest employers, has announced the launch of their Customer Journey Optimizer, a new analytics tool. It helps organizations improve customer experiences by identifying key moments and areas of friction, allowing them to take the right actions to find a solution.

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Customer Journey Optimizer provides an omnichannel view of the customer journey, highlighting the customer’s stage, reasons for experience breakdowns, and the impact those breakdowns have on business. Its journey analytics capabilities enable teams to dive deeper into data, understand the impact on different customer segments and channels, and use pre-built integrations to troubleshoot and orchestrate responses.

An example of a Qualtrics analytics dashboard analyzing friction points in an online customer experience.
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For example: Credit Union of Colorado successfully utilized Customer Journey Optimizer to enhance digital engagement. They increased adoption of digital banking services, reduced contact center calls, and improved operations by identifying friction points and implementing personalized messaging.

Qualtrics, based in Provo, is the leader and creator of the experience management business category. They are a cloud-native software provider helping organizations identify and resolve points of friction across digital and human touchpoints. With over 18,750 organizations worldwide using Qualtrics’ advanced AI, the company has built the largest database of human sentiment through its experience data. Qualtrics operates globally with headquarters in Provo and Seattle, and has 28 offices worldwide.

The company also spends a vast amount of time and resources giving back. See how Qualtrics raised money to fight cancer last month.

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Provo City News

Saving Me: Quality Animation Out of Provo

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By McKinsleigh Smith

Many are familiar with Rick and Morty, the wildly popular animated series created by Justin Roiland and Dan Harmon. Known for its science fiction lunacy and often raunchy humor, Rick and Morty developed a dedicated fanbase obsessed with its sci-fi antics. However, due to its mature content, the show is not suitable for younger audiences. The humor of BYUtv’s animated series Saving Me is similar to Rick and Morty, but the show itself is more age appropriate and rife with meaning – without being heavy handed.

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Created by Aaron Johnston, Saving Me premiered its first season on October 1, 2022. The show follows the story of Bennett Bramble, a technologically savvy billionaire in his early sixties. Bramble’s constant unsavory attitude towards others, including his own relatives, has left him leading a lonely life. Over time, he begins to regret his past decisions and decides to build a time machine. With the help of this machine, Bramble projects his present consciousness to his younger self, hoping to teach him how to become a good person before it’s too late.

The catch? Neither of them really know how to be a good person.

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What follows are the zany adventures of both present and future versions of Bennett Bramble as they struggle to discover what it means to be a good person.

What sets “Saving Me” apart is its ability to cater to viewers of all ages. While children will be entertained by both Bennets thwarting a rogue snow cone machine armed with playing cards or evading rabid blue-colored sasquatches, adult audience members will be captivated by the season-long mystery arcs. These arcs revolve around the identity of a mysterious soldier who repeatedly saves the day and the cataclysmic event that initially separated Bramble from his loved ones. The show also incorporates adult-themed ideas into its futuristic world, subtly adding depth and intrigue.

In addition to offering a child-friendly version of the dynamic between two main male characters, Saving Me successfully avoids relying on obscenity for its humor. While the collision between the past and present versions of Bramble forms the core of the plot, the show also explores relatable familial tensions. For instance, one episode takes both versions of Bramble on a journey through their memories, reminding them of the importance of gratitude towards their mother on Mother’s Day. The younger Bramble also learns valuable lessons about dedicating time to his siblings. Through these narratives, Saving Me imparts valuable life lessons to its younger audience.

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The voice cast of Saving Me brings a wealth of experience to the show, allowing it to stand on its own merits. Ivan Sherry lends his voice to the older, grumpier Bramble, while Adam Sanders brings the younger, more naive version to life. Sanders, known for his endearing charisma in shows like Clifford The Big Red Dog, infuses the series with youthful energy. Sherry, with his extensive background in animated cartoons and voice acting for various productions, provides a more mature perspective on the show’s situations.

With its entertaining adventures, intriguing mystery arcs, laugh out loud humor, and valuable life lessons, Saving Me offers a unique and enjoyable experience. BYUtv’s productions don’t always land, but this one definitely does. They knocked it out of the park.

You can stream Saving Me for free on BYUtv. Check out a trailer for the show below.

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Provo City News

Provo Braces for Utah Valley Marathon

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By Richard Provost

Provo is gearing up for an exciting event this weekend as thousands of runners flock to the city for the highly anticipated Utah Valley Marathon on Saturday, June 3, 2023. This marathon promises to bring an influx of energy, determination, and a positive influence to our community.

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Known for its speed and scenic beauty, the Utah Valley Marathon has gained recognition as one of the fastest spring marathons in the region. With breathtaking views of mountains, lush farmland, cascading waterfalls, the majestic Provo River, Deer Creek Reservoir, and nearby national parks, participants will experience an unparalleled journey. This event not only serves as a great opportunity for the runners but also presents a momentous occasion for the city as a whole.

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Event organizers are expecting a significant turnout, with over 8,000 runners and visitors projected to visit Provo for this premier race. Notably, 27% of the registered participants come from out-of-state – a huge boost to local businesses. As these athletes and their families occupy hotel rooms, dine in restaurants, and explore retail stores, it is estimated that this marathon alone will inject approximately 1.7 million dollars into our local economy. Runners will make their way through the course from 6:30 AM until 3 PM.

To ensure the safety and smooth progression of the marathon, there will be some necessary road closures and detours. Beginning at approximately 6:30 AM until 3 PM, the outside Northbound lane on University Avenue will be closed. Race participants will have the right of way, and traffic will be allowed to cross when there are gaps in the runners. Additionally, University Avenue will be completely closed between 200 North and 300 South until 3 PM.

Throughout Provo Canyon, all traffic will be directed to travel in the Westbound lanes. There will be one lane open for traffic traveling East and West. Runners will cross at approximately 5600 N.

The 800 N flyover will remain open, and all northbound traffic on University Avenue will be rerouted west of 4800 N. Likewise, southbound traffic coming out of the canyon will be detoured west at 800 N Orem.

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Provo City News

Unprecedented Snowpack Presents Challenging Spring

Photo of Lone Peak by Saul Flores.
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By Charlie G. Patreus

The excessive snowpack this winter has led to avalanches, floods, and the closure of various trails around Utah. The state experienced an extraordinary accumulation of snow this winter, with the Utah Department of Natural Resources reporting a staggering 201% above the normal snowpack levels in April.

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While this surplus snow has provided excellent conditions for winter sports enthusiasts, enabling ski resorts and primary state economic drivers like Snowbird to remain open until June, it has also resulted in unwelcome consequences for summer activities like hiking, mountain biking, and river sports.

As things stand, there is an increased likelihood of avalanches during the 2023 spring season. As the snow begins to warm up and melt, especially later in the day when exposed to sunlight, the risk of avalanches becomes significantly higher. Venturing into higher elevations of the mountains this spring demands greater preparation and equipment compared to previous years, primarily due to trail conditions and the potential risk of avalanches.

Bridal Veil Falls remains closed due to debris and ice left behind from an avalanche in January. The Provo River Parkway Trail in front of the waterfall is also closed. Provo residents are advised to avoid the Provo River, which doubled in volume last week.

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Provo City News

Provo Planting 1,000 Trees

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By Richard Provost

The city of Provo is taking significant steps towards a more sustainable future by planting 1,000 trees throughout the community. To facilitate community participation, Provo focused on organizing tree planting events in local parks. These gatherings attracted volunteers from across the city and served as a starting point for the initiative.

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Hannah Salzl, the sustainability coordinator for Provo City, believes this initiative is a wise investment in the city’s well-being. “We felt like it was a good way to invest in our future, invest in our infrastructure, invest in mental and social health, and invest in property values,” she says. “There’s not really a downside to putting more trees in your community.”

Originally scheduled to begin in March 2020, the initiative faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it officially launched on May 21, 2022, at Pioneer Park, and has since gained momentum with volunteers planting trees in various locations throughout the city. The Thousand Trees Initiative website reports that 353 trees have already been planted as part of the program.

Hannah Salzl, Provo City Sustainability Coordinator. Photo via LinkedIn.
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The involvement of volunteers, including city residents and student groups, has played a crucial role in the initiative’s success. Generous contributions from The Nature Conservancy and the Ivory Foundation have also supplied trees for developing areas in Provo.

Salzl emphasizes that multiple areas in Provo are undergoing development and require additional trees. She states, “There are others that are just starting to develop, just starting to get space to put more trees in. So we’re trying to spread that tree canopy out for better citywide coverage.”

One of the primary objectives of the initiative is to plant street trees throughout the city. Street trees are planted in the area between the sidewalk and the road, offering shade for pedestrians, a buffer between traffic and pedestrians, and reduced heat from asphalt roads.

Ultimately, the goal of the 1,000 trees initiative is to transform Provo into a more beautiful, clean, and sustainable city.

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Provo City News

Provo PD Seeks Help In Missing Persons Case

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By Richard Provost

Detectives in Provo, Utah are investigating a missing persons case regarding Sacramento ‘Rico’ Gutierrez, who was known to live here in town. Gutierrez is 42 years old, 5’9″, approximately 175 pounds, and of Hispanic/Latino ancestry.

The last known contact with Sacramento was around October 2021. There is no indication of foul-play, but family and friends have found it highly unusual to have not heard from him for this extended period of time. He is currently listed missing in the national missing persons database.

If anyone has any information as to the whereabouts of Sacramento, please call the Provo detectives at (801) 852-6343.

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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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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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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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