The Utah County Democratic Party adopted a platform over the weekend intended to tout the party's image as a mainstream alternative for Utah County voters.

The platform, passed on Saturday by the party's central committee, does not support gay marriage or new taxes, and reflects the abortion position of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, says party chair Vaughn R. Cook.

The party revised its platform because the old platform had been passed several years ago and the party wanted a document that reflected the concerns of voters today.

"We want voters to see our new platform," Cook said. "We're proud of it and we think most voters will like it, too.

Voters should compare the two party's platforms and see which one talks about the real world of their lives, such as raising families, commuting to work, and managing a family budget with rising gas prices, health care costs and basic necessities."

Cook said he felt many voters are fed up with the state Legislature and Utah County Commission not adequately funding public education or transportation needs of the county.

The platform can be accessed at the party's Web site, www.utahcountydemocrats.org.

ALPINE

At its last meeting, the Planning Commission approved a standing committee for the siting of significant nonresidential structures and facilities. The role of this committee is to represent the city during coordination of significant non-residential structures. The committee will be composed of city residents, including a chairperson and a non-voting representative from the Planning Commission.

AMERICAN FORK

The Wasatch Winds Adult Community Band will present its premiere concert on Thursday at 7:30 p.m. in the American Fork Amphitheater, at the Developmental Center Park, 700 North and 900 East. The concert is free to the public, but donations will be accepted at the door. This band, which consists of approximately 60 musicians from Utah County who have dusted off their instruments to once again make music, had its first rehearsal May 4. Anyone interested in joining the band can contact the director, John Miller, at Millj704@Alpine.k12.ut.us.

CEDAR HILLS

Cedar Hills will hold a Golf Course Advisory Committee meeting today at 7 p.m. at the Cedar Hills Golf Club, 10649 N. Clubhouse Dr. Members will discuss the Men's Association, course play and rules, community awareness, corporate memberships and the City Golf Tournament in July. The public is welcome to attend.

EAGLE MOUNTAIN

On June 6 the City Council approved the site plan for a new Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints meeting house in the Simpson Springs subdivision.

The building will be at the intersection of Simpson Springs Road and Half Mile Road. There are three stakes in the city, two in The Ranches and one in City Center. Eight meeting houses are now in use, with one under construction.

HIGHLAND

A six-month extension was approved by the City Council on June 6 for the Canyon Links subdivision at the east end of Country Club Drive. There had been some problems with the approval of the sewer plans, but those have now been resolved. The six-lot subdivision will be built next to the U.S. Forest Service property where a complex, including a visitor center for the Timpanogos Cave, is planned.

LEHI

The Lehi Arts Council is looking for teachers. Anyone who has a talent, special skill or ideas they would like to share through classes or workshops is welcome to contact the council with their ideas and qualifications. The council members are looking to add more opportunities for Lehi residents to experience the arts. They can be contacted at 766-0912 or at info@lehicityarts.com.

PAYSON

The Payson Community Cub Scout Pack is accepting enrollment for boys ages 7 through 10 years old. Those who are interested can call Rick Moore at 465-2709.

PROVO

Registration forms are now available for fall driver education classes at Provo High School. Pick up registration forms at the Provo High School main office. For more information, contact Coach Wendy Bills at 362-3373.

SARATOGA SPRINGS

Sharleen Hargreaves, a craft designer at Roberts Crafts, will be teaching the basics of interior design, such as floor coverings, faux finishes, flower arranging, accessories, picture hanging, furnishings and more. Participants will create a design board and make a presentation. The cost is $60 plus supplies. The classes will be at Little Scholars Academy. A start date for the six-week course and meeting schedule will be determined based on the convenience of those interested. Call Sharleen Hargreaves at 766-6243 to register.

SPANISH FORK

Diamond Rio will be at Spanish Fork Fairgrounds on June 29 at 6 p.m. The Little Bit Band and J Marc Bailey and his band are also on the program. "Choice seats for the event will be sold at Spanish Fork businesses," said Dennis Stilson, event promoter. Ticket prices range from $10 to $35.

SPRINGVILLE

Central Utah Center for Independent Living is sponsoring a 5K run, walk and roll race June 24. The top three winners in each category will be awarded a medal, and there will also be prizes, plenty of snacks and light refreshments. Registration starts at 7:30 a.m. at 740 W. Center St. in Springville with the race starting at 8 a.m. For more information, call Central Utah Center for Independent Living at 373-5044.

This story appeared in The Daily Herald on page D2.