With a commitment to long-term news coverage in Utah County, Deseret News publisher Wm. James Mortimer joined members of the Deseret News staff and Provo/Orem Chamber of Commerce at a ribbon-cutting ceremony Tuesday for the new Utah County Bureau news office.
The office, located at 495 N. University Ave., Suite 200, is larger and gives more visibility to the Deseret News in Utah County, officials said.Chamber president Steve Densley said the community appreciates the good coverage the Utah County staff has provided.
The Tuesday open house marked not only the opening of a new office but the 10th anniversary of the bureau in Utah Valley.
During the ceremonies Provo Mayor Mike Hill complimented the bureau on its fair and accurate coverage of Utah County issues.
That coverage has been going on for a long time. Former Deseret News publisher Wendell J. Ashton said in a 1983 letter, "The Deseret News has been serving Utah County since 1850. Our first news story from the county was from Peteetneet (Payson), dated Dec. 20, 1850."
On Aug. 15, 1983, the Deseret News published the first edition of the Utah County section, written by a new bureau of seasoned reporters and young, energetic newcomers.
Over the past 10 years the writers, photographers and editors at the Utah County Bureau have covered assignments ranging from the Thistle flood to the closure and reopening of Geneva Steel.
Besides local births, deaths, movies, community calendar items, columns and feature stories, the bureau welcomes news tips and photo opportunities. For more information about the Utah County Bureau or to leave a news tip call 374-1162.