Serve Daily Stories

Independent bookstore The Pumpkin Cottage has moved into a spacious new downtown location at 262 South Main Street in Springville. Founded by Megan Andrus, the expanded shop features free monthly book clubs, author signings, a custom local mural, and a cozy gathering place for local readers.

Matt Kelly introduces the "5 Whys," a powerful problem-solving technique originally created at Toyota to move past obvious surface symptoms and reveal underlying root causes. By shifting our mindset from immediate judgment to genuine curiosity, this simple method helps improve self-awareness, personal relationships, and everyday decision-making.

Attorney Benjamin Shaffer examines the legal and constitutional implications of AI-powered camera networks like Flock and Axon spreading across Utah County. He argues that these warrantless mass-surveillance systems violate Utah state law and the Fourth Amendment, placing innocent citizens' privacy at risk while exposing local governments to potential liability

The Springville and Mapleton communities have raised $85,000 toward the $140,000 goal for the new Veterans Walls of Honor across Evergreen and Historic City cemeteries. Honoring over 2,350 local service members from the Mexican-American War to the present day, organizers are asking for community support to raise the final $55,000 before the spring installation and Memorial Day dedication.  

Samantha Jasperson of Park View Elementary has been named Nebo School District's overall Elementary Teacher of the Year. Known for helping students set ambitious goals and take ownership of their learning, she inspires both her students and fellow educators with her unwavering belief that every child can succeed.  

As winter approaches, Utah County Commissioners are gathering 250 sleeping mats for vulnerable neighbors staying at the Utah County Warming Center. Part of the local America 250 Celebration, this donation drive helps ensure a safe, warm, and dignified place to sleep when temperatures drop, with over 100 mats already collected toward their November deadline.  

Certified personal trainer Mindy Claunch shares her inspiring journey from gymnast and yoga instructor to leading the new "Prime & Unwind" class at the Clyde Recreation Center. Designed as a self-massage using foam rollers, breathwork, and mobility movements, her 45-minute sessions empower participants of all ages to take recovery into their own hands.

The "My Hometown" initiative in Santaquin is tackling social isolation by bringing neighbors together through free community classes and volunteer Days of Service. From outdoor restoration projects like painting park tables to teaching sewing and language skills at the Community Resource Center, this collaborative movement is building a stronger, happier town.

In Part 1 of "The Adventures of David Hasselnott," columnist Joe Capell shares the hilarious story of how a family reunion at Bear Lake turned into an unexpected "Baywatch" rescue attempt. Despite not knowing how to swim, Joe heroically leaped into action—only to end up chin-deep in water earned a new nickname in the process.

In this insightful piece, Matt Kelly explores how the simple advice "wear your sunscreen" serves as a powerful metaphor for life. He breaks down how small daily habits compound over time, how emotional boundaries protect our peace, and why taking care of today's small things is the best gift for your future self.  

Author and speaker Janae Warner shares her powerful personal journey of walking away from a 12-year career at age 60 to publish a book, launch a podcast, and start a consulting business. Reflecting on the sacrifices made by previous generations, she inspires readers to stop playing small, write their own permission slips, and realize that it is their duty to step into greatness.

Serve Daily prints a full transcription of the Declaration of Independence as a resolute reminder that government exists solely to secure our inherent rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. This publication serves as a call for citizens to hold leaders accountable to timeless founding principles and stand unapologetically for personal freedom.

Travis Lundell and five high school cross-country teammates reunited at the Speedy Spaniard race in Spanish Fork to honor the memory of their lifelong friend, Hyrum Shell, who tragically passed away in May. Together, the group set a shared pace, traded fond memories of Shell's infectious laugh and humor, and created a therapeutic new tradition to celebrate a friendship that endured long past gradu...

As the Widemouth 2 Fire consumes thousands of acres across Millard County, Rod Hjelm explores why Utah wildfires are growing larger and harder to stop. He advocates shifting from passive "leave it alone" conservation to active forest stewardship—including fuel reduction, thinning, and repurposing cleared material for agriculture—to build resilient forests that protect local communities.

The Treetop ABA in Provo provides lifelong autism support for children ages 2 to 18, eliminating "the cliff" families face as their children grow older. Featuring specialized peer-play zones, individualized BCBA-led therapy, and in-home services across Utah County, Treetop ensures development and guidance never stop.  

Licensed Clinical Social Worker Ben Wunderin introduces his new regular column offering free, confidential mental health advice and support for the local community. In this inaugural piece, he outlines three essential pillars of effective communication—I-statements, clarifications, and validations—to help readers strengthen their daily relationships.  

Store Director Bill Summers celebrates a remarkable 50 years with Macey's grocery stores, spending 44 of those years leading the busiest Associated Foods location in Utah right in Spanish Fork. From watching the town grow to mentoring generations of local teenagers, Bill shares how living by the philosophy "we're in the people business" keeps him loving his job every single day.  

Spanish Fork brothers Burk and Ace Austin made high school rodeo history by finishing first and second place in steer wrestling at the National High School Finals Rodeo in Nebraska. Out of nearly 1,800 international competitors, the Austin brothers dominated multiple events, carrying on a proud family rodeo tradition rooted on their Lake Shore farm.  

This inspiring reflection explores why having a familiar local spot—whether a diner booth, park bench, or coffee shop—is essential for our well-being. It highlights how consistently showing up in physical community spaces helps build genuine relationships, anchors us through life's changes, and creates a true sense of belonging.  

Payson City and Mountain View Hospital are bringing country music star Aaron Watson to the Peteetneet Outdoor Amphitheater for a free concert as part of this year's Golden Onion Days. Attendees can enjoy an evening of authentic, independent country music, high-energy entertainment, and community celebration on Thursday, September 3.  

Salem Hills High School teacher Scott Haney went viral with over 25 million views after posting his hilarious 90-day challenge avoiding the Payson McDonald's drive-thru. After using humor and online challenges to bring kindness to the community following his mother's passing, the 40-year teaching veteran continues inspiring others to spread joy and make people smile.  

Author Matt Kelly takes a nostalgic look back at the era of "latchkey kids" to explore how early independence taught millions of children self-reliance, problem-solving, and personal responsibility. He breaks down the lessons today's parents can learn about balancing safety with giving children room to become capable adults.  

Ms. Katie Chadwick, a special education teacher at Brookside Elementary, has been named the Nebo School District 2025–2026 Teacher of the Year. Recognized for her patience, calm presence, and innovative approach to learning, she works tirelessly to help every student reach their full potential and inspires colleagues across the district.    

We explore the inspiring 20-year history of Springville-based CR Doors and Moulding and its deep-rooted commitment to community impact. Learn how owner Clint Robertson built a business that provides custom solutions like hobbit doors while simultaneously partnering with nonprofits to support local adults with disabilities.  

We celebrate local Toastmasters member William M. Boardman's impressive first-place victory at the District 15 Division C International Speech Contest with his powerful presentation titled "Help." Discover the dedication required to stand out among 30,000 global competitors and how this journey reflects over a decade of commitment to communication excellence.