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Securing a seat at BYU’s Marriott Center for the 2025 basketball season has become tougher than ever, with season tickets officially sold out.

 

Excitement is soaring after the Cougars’ 26–10 run under head coach Kevin Young, highlighted by their first Sweet Sixteen appearance since 2011.

 

Young’s leadership has not only energized fans but attracted AJ Dybantsa, the nation’s top recruit, further boosting expectations.

 

To manage demand, BYU introduced a reseating process, awarding seats based on membership level and priority points tied to donors’ past support.

 

This system, however, has raised costs—top club members contribute up to $500,000, not counting ticket prices.

 

Many loyal fans are paying more to remain involved, while others are priced out.

 

Over 6,000 discounted student seats remain, ensuring campus energy fills the arena.

 

The stage is set for a thrilling, high-expectation Cougar season.

A fierce fire broke out Monday night, devastating multiple treasured bars and restaurants along Main Street in Salt Lake City.

 

The blaze ignited at the London Belle Supper Club at 321 S. Main and quickly spread, severely impacting Los Tapatios, White Horse, and Whiskey Street.

 

These popular nightlife hubs, housed in historic century-old buildings, have long anchored the downtown community.

 

Fire Chief Karl Lieb confirmed that 78 firefighters fought the three-alarm inferno.

 

Three firefighters suffered injuries, though all are expected to recover.

 

Estimated damages reach $5 million, with five businesses completely lost.

 

Mayor Erin Mendenhall mourned the loss, vowing city support through no-interest emergency loans for affected owners.

 

The Downtown Alliance underscored the block’s cultural significance, expressing hope as plans for rebuilding emerge.

 

Investigators continue to probe the cause as the community unites, determined to restore Main Street's vibrant spirit.

The Big 12 is setting up for another unpredictable football season, echoing last year's chaos when underdogs defied expectations and favorites faltered.

 

Arizona State’s rise from bottom pick to conference champ and Utah’s surprising struggles reflected the league’s unique competitiveness.

 

Looking ahead, expert forecasts are all over the map.

 

Analysts debate the favorites, with Baylor, Kansas State, and Arizona State frequent picks to contend, while Utah and BYU are consistently slotted in the middle of the pack.

 

Quarterbacks will take center stage, as Utah’s Devon Dampier and BYU’s still-unnamed starter lead their teams through a deep field.

 

No dominant favorite has emerged, and local fans can expect plenty of twists.

 

The only certainty is that the Big 12’s drama is just beginning.

Utah’s first all-girls high school flag football league will kick off this fall, breaking new ground for young female athletes across the state.

 

Organized by the Utah High School Girls Football Association, the league welcomes girls from eighth to twelfth grade, offering them an exciting chance to compete in a sport traditionally seen as a boys’ domain.

 

Founder Ryan NeVille, inspired by his daughter’s love for football, launched the effort after witnessing impressive talent at the Utah Summer Games in Cedar City.

 

He sees flag football as an inclusive option, with opportunities in college, professional leagues, and even the Olympics.

 

While 17 other states have officially recognized girls’ flag football, Utah’s advocates are pushing for the same local status.

 

Registration for the historic season is open until September 8, with games beginning September 15.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) will partially reverse its plan to end paper checks for benefit payments by September 30, 2025.

 

While promoting electronic payments for security and efficiency, the SSA will continue issuing paper checks for individuals without access to digital options.

 

This change addresses concerns about vulnerable Americans, especially seniors and those in remote communities with limited internet.

 

Although President Donald Trump’s March 2025 executive order called for a full shift to electronic payments, the SSA now recognizes some recipients require paper checks.

 

Beneficiaries are urged to consider direct deposit or the Direct Express® card for faster, more secure payments.

 

Those unable to transition will still receive paper checks, ensuring uninterrupted benefits.

 

The SSA is reaching out directly to help people update payment preferences and stay informed about their choices.

 

This approach balances modernization with the needs of every beneficiary.

Focaccia, the classic Italian flatbread, delights with its crispy, golden crust and soft, airy crumb.

 

While traditional recipes require lots of kneading and rising, this no-knead method offers delicious results with minimal effort.

 

A high-hydration dough—simply flour, instant yeast, kosher salt, and very warm water—gets mixed and left to rise, no folding needed.

 

Once doubled in size, pour the sticky dough into a buttered, parchment-lined pan, drizzle with olive oil, and allow a second rise.

 

Just before baking, dimple the surface and sprinkle with flaky sea salt.

 

After 25 minutes in a hot oven, the focaccia emerges crisp and aromatic—ready to cool briefly before slicing.

 

Serve alone, dip in olive oil, or use as a hearty sandwich base—this easy recipe brings bakery-quality bread to any home kitchen.

Bridal Veil Falls, a beloved Utah County landmark, is set for major improvements to boost safety and upgrade the visitor experience.

 

Summer crowds flock to the scenic waterfall, but congestion on a narrow footbridge often creates hazards for families, hikers, and cyclists.

 

Utah County leaders have announced an ambitious plan to transform the area. A new bridge upstream will separate bike and pedestrian traffic, while the steep gravel trail will be widened and paved for better accessibility, making it easier for strollers and wheelchairs.

 

In a key step forward, the county is negotiating a land swap with the U.S. Forest Service for 39 acres, allowing smoother management and upgrades. The Forest Service is backing these efforts, signaling strong collaboration.

 

Local volunteers supported a major site cleanup in May, reflecting the community’s commitment to protecting Bridal Veil Falls for future generations.

The Provo River Parkway Trail saw heavy congestion near Bridal Veil Falls on a hot July day, as families, hikers, and cyclists gathered at the narrow footbridge now replacing the wider bridge lost in the 2023 avalanche.

 

The crowded scene, with children playing in the pool and others scaling slippery rocks, has led to rising safety concerns and increased bike-pedestrian conflicts at the trail’s popular base.

 

Utah County is seeking a land exchange with the U.S. Forest Service to take control of nearly 39 acres around Bridal Veil Falls, offering 78 acres near Vivian Park in return.

 

Plans include a new cyclists-only bridge, a scenic pavilion, and trail improvements to address safety while preserving the area’s natural beauty and ease of public access.

 

The estimated project cost is $4–5 million using transient room tax funds, with public input to be collected at upcoming hearings.

 

When summer temperatures climb, nothing hits the spot like a glass of Frozen Hot Chocolate.

 

This refreshing twist on the classic winter beverage transforms creamy chocolate into a cool, frosty treat.

 

Just melt semi-sweet chocolate, whisk with unsweetened cocoa powder, a pinch of salt, sugar, and whole milk, then blend with ice until smooth.

 

Pour into a glass, top generously with whipped cream, and add chocolate shavings or mini marshmallows for flair.

 

For a creative spin, try a dash of peppermint extract, caramel sauce, or even mix in dark or white chocolate for new flavors.

 

Adults seeking an extra treat can add coffee liqueur or Irish cream—just remember to enjoy responsibly.

 

This frozen delight keeps all the comfort of hot chocolate while providing a sweet escape from the heat.

Utah will celebrate Pacific Islander Heritage Month this August, spotlighting the state’s vibrant Pacific Islander community through a series of lively events.

 

Since its creation in 2012, the heritage month honors the deep cultural impact and ongoing contributions of Pacific Islanders.

 

Susi Feltch-Malohifo'ou, a local community leader, highlights how these gatherings foster both understanding and unity.

 

Festivities begin August 1 with Pacific Islander Skate Night at Millcreek Common, followed by the 11th Annual Pacific Island Heritage Month Kickoff at Lodestone Park in Kearns on August 2, featuring food, crafts, and captivating performances.

 

Highlights include the Friendly Islands Tongan Festival, Fiji Association’s Back to School Party, and the “Tatau: Marks of Polynesia” art exhibit.

 

Celebrations wrap with Polynesian Days in Lehi, blending food, music, and dance to honor cultural pride and community connection.

 

These events offer a powerful invitation for all Utahns to experience and support the rich diversity within their own neighborhoods.

Boston cream pie, Massachusetts’ signature dessert since 1856, was first crafted at the historic Omni Parker House.

 

This no-bake twist delivers all the beloved flavors in bar form, layering a vanilla wafer cookie crust, velvety custard, and smooth chocolate ganache.

 

Each bite offers creamy, chocolatey satisfaction without turning on the oven—ideal for summer celebrations or cozy nights in.

 

Just six simple ingredients create this effortless treat: vanilla wafers, sugar, butter, instant pudding, cream, and chocolate.

 

Quick to prepare—chill each layer, then slice and serve—these bars capture the essence of Boston’s culinary heritage.

 

If you’re in the city, don’t miss the Omni Parker House’s annual events celebrating this classic dessert, or explore Boston’s bakeries for authentic, creative takes.

 

Enjoy a piece of local history at home—no baking required.

Utah offers a stunning array of water adventures, from sparkling alpine lakes to scenic rivers perfect for summer fun.

 

Water safety is essential — sporting a life jacket, letting others know your plans, and checking conditions will keep you safe on the water.

 

Favorite destinations include Quail Creek State Park in southern Utah, known for its warm waters and proximity to Zion National Park, and Bear Lake along the Utah-Idaho border, famed for its turquoise hue and shoreline camping.

 

Rockport State Park, nestled in Peoa, attracts paddleboarders and jet skiers, while Mirror Lake in the Uintas offers tranquil paddling and mountain vistas.

 

Moab’s Mill Creek Trail rewards hikers with waterfalls and swimming holes, and Meadow Hot Springs near I-15 promises a soak year-round.

 

Families love Springville’s Wayne Bartholomew Family Park and South Jordan’s Heritage Park Splash Pad.

 

Whether floatin’ down the Provo River or relaxing near the future Glendale Regional Park, there’s adventure close to home — just remember to look after yourself and Utah’s wild landscapes.

Utah is facing a critical nursing shortage, becoming the state with the nation’s lowest nurse-to-population ratio—fewer than seven nurses per 1,000 residents.

 

This crisis is straining healthcare services, leaving hospitals and clinics struggling to meet demand.

 

Burnout is a major contributor, as many nurses are driven away by long shifts, overwhelming patient loads, and emotional exhaustion.

 

The University of Utah College of Nursing is stepping up by raising admissions by 25% in hopes of easing the shortage.

 

Still, many aspiring nurses are turned away due to limited faculty and resources.

 

Utah’s below-average pay and rising living costs also hinder efforts to attract and retain skilled nurses.

 

Addressing the shortage will require investment in education, improved workplace support, and more competitive compensation for local nurses.

Salt Lake City will soon welcome the Wasatch Food Co-op, its first member-owned grocery store, set to open in 2025 at 416 East 900 South in the historic Milk Block near Liberty Park.

 

This 5,950-square-foot co-op has been a passionate project since 2009, driven by local residents committed to building a better food system for the community.

 

Evan Sugden and Mikre-Ab Abera, board members, underscore the store’s focus on locally sourced products, with all profits reinvested in Salt Lake City to bolster the regional economy and support local farmers.

 

Designed to operate democratically, the co-op aims to create stronger neighborhood ties, reduce environmental impact, and offer a more sustainable shopping option.

 

The Wasatch Food Co-op continues to grow its membership and engage residents through community events, signaling a new era for Salt Lake’s local food movement.

 

The Jordan River Parkway Trail segment between Cottonwood Park and 700 North will reopen on July 11 after a three-month closure. Salt Lake City officials used this time to tackle environmental and public safety issues, clearing overgrown vegetation, removing debris, and restoring riverbanks to improve natural habitats. Part of the trail between 500 North and 700 North has been rerouted to the west side of the Jordan River and widened with new asphalt, aiming to reduce conflicts and make the path safer for both pedestrians and cyclists. In addition, police and park rangers have stepped up patrols to enforce park regulations and connect people in need with support services. Future improvements include better trail lighting and security cameras, all part of a broader safety strategy. City leaders say these upgrades are designed to make the trail cleaner, safer, and more inviting for everyone as it reopens to the public.

Ebiking enthusiasts in South Jordan are welcoming major upgrades to the Jordan River Parkway, which now offers improved access and amenities for electric bike riders. A newly added exit path connects directly to local businesses like Knickerbockers Deli, making it easier for riders to stop for food and drinks during their journeys. Businesses such as Pedego, a well-known electric bike store, and Recharge Pub & Grub have also established direct links to the trail, giving cyclists more options for refreshments, repairs, and community engagement. These developments are part of a larger effort to make the parkway a central part of the community, encouraging both residents and visitors to enjoy the scenic route and nearby establishments. With these enhancements, South Jordan is emerging as a prime destination for ebikers, blending beautiful outdoor experiences with convenient stops and services that cater to a growing cycling community.

Custom epoxy floor coatings offer a resilient and attractive option for both residential and commercial indoor spaces, especially in high-traffic areas like garages. Available in a range of colors and finishes, epoxy floors can elevate the look and durability of any interior. However, these coatings are best suited for indoor use due to their sensitivity to UV light, which can cause colors to fade if exposed to sunlight. Common issues such as hot tire pickup and gradual wear from constant traffic may require ongoing maintenance. It's important to consult with experts when choosing a coating to ensure it's appropriate for the specific area. In Salt Lake City, companies like Jeff Dumas Concrete Construction and M3 Concrete Coatings specialize in high-quality epoxy solutions, offering advanced designs and reliable installations. Their expertise helps homeowners and businesses achieve strong, visually striking floors built to last, with professional guidance from start to finish.

Brigham Young University sous chef Ruth Dubon is preparing to compete in the 24th annual National Association of College & University Food Services culinary challenge at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City. Dubon, representing BYU, will face off against five other university chefs, showcasing her chicken and liver ballontine with fried liver, sautéed red Swiss chard, celery puree, and savory bread pudding. She credits her confidence in part to both extensive practice—preparing her dish over 40 times—and strong home support, noting the advantage of competing locally. Dubon is eager to highlight her skills and creativity, focusing on using every part of her ingredients. She also recognizes the significant backing from BYU, whose staff and colleagues have encouraged and facilitated her preparation. The event is scheduled for Tuesday, with the winner to be revealed Wednesday morning, as Dubon hopes to bring recognition to herself and her university.