Chi Chi le Mot performing at Velour Live Music Gallery.
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By Richard Provost
Provo, Utah’s flourishing music scene was featured extensively on NPR’s World Cafe program last January. Part of the show’s “Sense of Place” series, Provo was one of the musical hotspots explored by Stephen Kallao, Miguel Perez, and their team. The series covered local musical trailblazers The Clingers, more current bands like The Aces and James The Mormon, and the publisher of Provo Music Magazine Zach Collier.
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Most notably, the episode about Velour Live Music Gallery owner Corey Fox – arguably downtown Provo’s most successful music venue – was recently awarded the Bronze Award for Human-Interest Feature by the New York Festivals Radio Awards.
The New York Festivals Radio Awards honor “the exceptional and innovative content being created today on all continents and seen across all platforms” and aims to “respect the achievements of the many talented men and women who make up the worldwide creative community.”
Book on Tape Worm performing at Velour Live Music Gallery.
The winning episode in question explores the history of Velour as a local venue, the highs and lows of local live music, and the legendary story of Brandon Robbins, frontman of The Moth & The Flame, donating a kidney to Corey Fox. The music and members of Provo-born bands Sego and The Moth & The Flame also make appearances in the episode.
“Provo music and the people and stories of the scene have proven time and time again to be something special,” writes Provo Music Magazine’s new editor Michael Luce. “A major congratulations from all of us here at Provo Music Magazine to both the World Cafe staff and everyone featured in the episode on receiving such an awesome honor.”
You can listen to the award-winning episode below.
Last Thursday, nearly 500 people gathered at Utah Valley University for the 3rd annual Growth and Prosperity Conference. The conference aims to attract future-thinking people to address Utah’s rapidly increasing population and how it will impact transportation, education, air quality, infrastructure, workforce development, water, business, and economic development.
Hosted in partnership with the Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce, UVU welcomed speakers from key areas, including US Representative and former Provo Mayor John Curtis. Having served Provo for 8 years, Curtis understands the importance of managed growth and the impact it will have. “Thank you for planning the future of my valley for my kids and my grandkids. It is incredibly important work,” he said.
Curtis Blair, president and CEO of the Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce, stressed the importance of planning ahead. “We are dealing with unprecedented growth. It’s not going away. You can view it positively, you can view it negatively, you can view it neutral, but it’s coming,” Blair said. “So, how we manage that growth, the stewardship with which we manage that growth, will really dictate the quality of life for years to come – and I am talking generational impact.”
Laura Hanson, from the Governor’s Office of Planning and Budget, explained that between 2010 and 2020, Utah was the fastest growing state in the nation at 18.4 percent – far outpacing neighboring communities and states. Hanson revealed that historically optimistic Utahns are finally feeling uncertain about the future.
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“Every seven years, they do a survey, and one answer has been consistent through that time period,” Hanson said. “‘Do you think growth will make Utah better or Utah worse?’ For the first time in the history of this survey question, in 2021, Utahns said, ‘We are not sure that growth is going to make Utah better.’ That is a big change since the last time that we asked it in 2014.”
Specifically, Utahns are feeling pressures around housing and resources. The surveys also showed that Utahns don’t want to stop growth. They just want to be more intentional about it.
“Education and workforce development is one of our key seven pillars of growth. You cannot have businesses thriving if you do not have a qualified workforce,” said Curtis Blair. “We want our children to stay here. We would love for them to work here, live here, play, and recreate here, and we want to keep our grandchildren close to us.”
Astrid S. Tuminez, President of UVU, stressed the importance of a college education. There’s a median income gap of $30,000 a year between someone who merely graduates from high school and those who receive a college degree.
A public service announcement from UVU President Astrid S. Tuminez.
Tuminez reported that UVU is playing a key role in creating a strong Utah workforce. 77% of UVU graduates stay in Utah and are fueling the economy ten years after graduation. At the conclusion of her keynote speech, Tuminez announced a formal agreement between UVU and Mountainland Technical College (MTECH). The agreement creates a pathway for MTECH graduates in HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and welding to earn an associate degree in business management at UVU – in half the time.
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While gathering to discuss these issues at all could be considered a success, what truly matters is how the event’s conversations and data sharing translate to future progress.
“All have come together to say these conversations matter,” Blair said. “We can’t do it in silos. We have got to figure out a way to partner and collaborate and bring this message down to the grassroots, and that’s our blocks and neighborhoods, our City Council, our mayors.”
For more information about the efforts being made by the Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce to plan for statewide growth, click here.
Where the accident occurred (with the victim's body obscured out of respect). Photo courtesy Provo PD.
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By Mike Romero
The Provo Police department has arrested and booked Jose Sandoval into the Utah County jail on suspicion of failure to remain at the scene of an accident involving a fatality. He has not yet been formally charged.
Around 4:30 AM on Friday, October 27, Provo PD received a report of a man lying near Center Street on the east side of 500 West, headed northbound. The man was 43-year-old Brian Coltharp, who had been hit by a moving vehicle.
According to Provo Police Department public information officer Janna-Lee Holland, for some reason Coltharp – who was wearing dark clothing – fell into the roadway and did not get up. A light-colored van then traveled through the intersection and hit him, but did not remain at the scene. Provo PD obtained this information after reviewing footage from traffic cameras.
“It is not known if the driver knew they hit a person, or thought they hit an object,” Holland said. Later in the morning, officers obtained license plate information and located the vehicle and driver, Jose Sandoval.
Orem is gearing up for election season! In 2023, 12 candidates are running for 3 available council spots. To help Orem citizens get informed about the candidates and their platforms, Orem City is holding a Meet the Candidates Night on Thursday, August 10 from 6-8 PM in Library Hall.
This is a unique opportunity to interact with fellow citizens running for office. There are few opportunities like this where all candidates are together in one room for open questions. The seats up for election in 2023 are currently held by Jeff Lambson, Terry Peterson, and Debby Lauret.
Candidates will address the audience for the first hour, explaining what they hope to accomplish on behalf of the city. The second hour will be an open house where the public can personally meet the candidates and ask them questions.
The 2023 candidates are: Crystal Muhlstein, Matt McKell, Greg Duerden, Chris Killpack, Jeff Lambson, Archie Williams III, Spencer Rands, Heather Fry, Jenn Gale, David Edward Garber, Mike Carpenter and Wade Sewell.
Ahead of the event, check out the videos Orem shot for each candidate here. You can see an example of one below.
Note: The inclusion of this candidate’s video does not indicate an endorsement, and is merely an example of what you can expect from the video series.
Candidates vying for municipal office in Provo are gearing up for the upcoming fall elections. The Municipal Council seats will be up for grabs, and Provo voters will have the chance to choose their representatives in this year’s general election. The primary election is scheduled for September 5, but before that, an opportunity awaits Provo voters to hear directly from the candidates on Thursday.
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Utah Representative Tyler Clancy, a first-term legislator representing a substantial portion of Provo (the area east of State Street and generally between 2620 North and 300 North) will host the forum. The event will take place from 6:30 to 8 PM in the Bullock Room of the Provo City Library.
Clancy has emphasized the importance of an informed electorate for a thriving republic and highlights the forum as a platform to actively engage in the political process and make well-informed decisions on election day. In a press release, Clancy expresses his hope that the event will foster open dialogue between the candidates and the citizens of Provo, build community trust, and lead to a more responsive government.
With a total of thirteen candidates vying for the four open seats, there is only one incumbent seeking re-election. In District 1, Craig Christensen and Stan Jensen are contending for the seat currently held by Bill Fillmore. For the District 3 seat, currently occupied by Shannon Ellsworth, the candidates are David Lewis and Becky Bogdin. Incumbent council member Travis Hoban is the sole candidate for District 4.
Meanwhile, Council member David Shipley has decided not to run for re-election for the City Wide II seat. Eight candidates are stepping forward to replace him: Joseph Penrose, Beth Hedengren, Ari Emmanuel Webb, Gary Garrett, Wendy Ahlman, Tanner Bennett, McKay Jensen, and Nathan Smith Jones.
The forum will allow the candidates to address crucial topics, respond to audience questions, and present their ideas for improving the community. After the event, the candidates will have tables set up for further discussions. The forum is free and open to the public, welcoming everyone interested in participating. See the map of Provo Council Districts below.
Austin Madsen near Mount Dutton on Jan. 27, 2023. Photo courtesy of Mapleton Police Department.
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By Richard Provost
The body of Austin Madsen, a 32-year-old resident of Mapleton, Utah, has been found in Garfield County near Mount Dutton after over four months of searching. He went missing on January 27. Shed hunters spotted the remains on May 29 around 2:30 PM and immediately reported the sighting to the Garfield County Sheriff’s Office.
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Authorities arrived at the location and determined that there was no foul play involved. Joe Adams, the public information officer for the sheriff’s office, stated that Madsen’s death appeared to be the result of natural causes, likely due to exposure to the elements.
The remains were transported to Taylorsville, where the Utah Office of the Medical Examiner identified the body using dental records provided by the Mapleton Police Department. Austin Madsen’s father, Aron Madsen, revealed that his son suffered from bipolar disorder and occasionally experienced mental crises. According to Aron Madsen, Austin had expressed his desire to leave Mapleton and clear his mind, intending to head to Fredonia, Arizona, where his family had lived in the past. However, something diverted his path, leading him to Mount Dutton where his truck became stuck in the snow.
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The last communication from Austin Madsen was a video sent to a friend on January 27, showing himself on the mountain. This video helped the police identify the general area. Search and rescue efforts began on January 29 in Dry Hollow, approximately 5 miles southeast of where Madsen’s body was eventually found. Multiple sheriff’s offices collaborated in the search, but due to a severe snowstorm, the operation had to be temporarily suspended. After the storm passed, the search resumed but was called off on February 3 when all leads were exhausted.
There were subsequent reports of sightings in Ogden, but they turned out to be cases of mistaken identity. A further search conducted by deputies from Garfield County and members of the Rocky Mountain Rescue Dogs took place during the weekend of May 20 but yielded no results. The Fredonia Police Department informed Madsen’s family of the discovery of his remains.
Austin Madsen is survived by his wife, Emily, and their two young sons, aged 2 and 9 months. The Garfield County Sheriff’s Office expressed its condolences to the Madsen family and requested that all inquiries be directed to their office, allowing the family time to grieve this tragic loss.
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.
Utah Valley University’s (UVU) School of Aviation Sciences is set to become the first collegiate flight training program in the country to transition its entire training fleet to fully unleaded aviation fuel (UL94).
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Operating since 1988, UVU’s School of Aviation Sciences has trained and educated numerous FAA certified pilots and aviation industry professionals, boasting a graduate job placement rate exceeding 92%.
In collaboration with Swift Fuels, a fuel research and development company based in Indiana, UVU recently received its initial shipment of UL94, marking a significant milestone in the adoption of unleaded fuel for piston-engine aircraft. While leaded fuel has traditionally been used in these aircraft due to the need for higher-octane fuel, Swift Fuels’ UL94 is a lead-free alternative that has gained approval for use in approximately 70% of existing piston aircraft. Although still in the early stages of adoption, UVU’s fleet of 25 aircraft, comprised of Diamond DA40s and Piper Seminoles, is fully compatible with this new fuel and ready to reap its benefits.
Nick Marsh, supervisor of aviation operations at UVU.
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The switch to UL94 brings several advantages to the aviation program. Engines running on this fuel will experience smoother operations and fewer mechanical issues, such as fouled spark plugs. Moreover, mandatory aircraft inspections will require less time and manpower, leading to reduced maintenance costs for UVU. John James, the director of aviation maintenance at UVU, highlighted how the cleaner-burning nature of UL94 benefits engine components, ultimately resulting in enhanced efficiency and cost-effectiveness in student training.
Beyond the cost advantages, UL94 serves as a more environmentally friendly alternative. It significantly reduces lead exhaust emissions, aligning with UVU’s commitment to sustainability. Nick Marsh, the supervisor of aviation operations at UVU, expressed his enthusiasm for the transition, emphasizing how the use of unleaded fuel would create safer working conditions for fuel-handling employees by eliminating their exposure to leaded fuel.
Curt Castagna, President and CEO of the National Air Transportation Association (NATA), commended UVU’s decision to adopt UL94 and recognized the university’s leadership in promoting community partnership and environmental progress. As an academic institution and early adopter of UL94, UVU has the opportunity to educate the industry on the use of environmentally friendly aviation fuels while training future pilots.
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NATA, the leading national trade association representing general aviation service companies, is part of the industry’s Eliminate Aviation Gasoline Lead Emissions (EAGLE) initiative, which aims to transition piston-engine aircraft to lead-free aviation fuels by the end of 2030. Castagna’s congratulations further underline the significance of UVU’s move toward UL94.
UVU’s transition to unleaded fuel aligns with its broader sustainability efforts in recent years. These initiatives include reducing campus water usage by 40 million gallons annually, donating excess food from UVU’s GRIT Garden to the CARE Hub campus food pantry, partnering with UTA to offer free public transportation, and constructing a pedestrian bridge across I-15.
Utah Valley University (UVU) has been honored with a prestigious Top 10 Military Friendly School designation by Military Friendly, an esteemed organization that assesses a school’s dedication, initiatives, and accomplishments in creating sustainable and valuable opportunities for the military community.
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“This recognition reflects many hours invested by our team and other UVU partners to create an exceptional experience for our military-connected students,” says Kayle Smith, interim director of UVU Veteran Success Center.
Employing a comprehensive methodology that incorporates public data sources, proprietary surveys, and firsthand input from veterans, Military Friendly evaluates institutions across multiple categories, including academic policies, admissions procedures, cultural commitment, financial aid, graduation and career support, as well as military student assistance and retention.
UVU, in line with this methodology, has achieved a remarkable Gold rating, securing an impressive fifth-place ranking among Large Public universities nationwide.
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The university’s Veteran Success Center plays a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth transition and success of student veterans, service members, and their dependents throughout their educational journey, from enrollment to graduation. Since its establishment in 2015, the center has provided invaluable guidance to approximately 800 military veteran students and 2,400 military dependents, enabling them to maximize their military benefits in funding their education at UVU.
To learn more about the UVU Veteran Success Center, visit uvu.edu/veterans.
Provo Tribune: Local News for the Provo/Orem Area 