Good morning, Provo.

Brian Astle—42-year-old man from Provo—died on Wednesday when he fell while rock climbing on Mount Gould at Glacier National Park—search crews located his body around 10 a.m. Friday—and his death is under investigation.

Rocky Mountain Power said Friday that it will appeal the Public Service Commission's decision to limit its rate hike request and downgrade its credit rating; the company stated its move aims to protect Utah customers from rising costs and hindered investments.

The commission stressed that Utah ratepayers should not bear expenses from outside factors such as wildfire settlements—its ruling focused solely on safeguarding local interests.

Provo Police ask the public for help after an arson on July 10 caused $122,000 in damage to playground structures at Quail Orchard Park (a park that opened in September and covers 7 acres) that has now been vandalized twice in two months.

On July 9, the church announced it recorded its highest number of convert baptisms by the end of June with 308,000 new members in 2024.

Elder Quentin L. Cook said every region saw at least a 20% increase in baptisms in the first quarter of 2025 — a sign of renewed faith and greater participation in worship and humanitarian efforts.

More than half of Utah is in severe drought and the state is on track for one of its driest and warmest years as only 4.71 inches of rain fell during the first half and several reservoirs have dropped below 40% capacity.

Gov. Spencer Cox urged Utahns to conserve water—over 500 wildfires have started and increased fire danger is reported.

University of Utah Health linked PM2.5 pollution from wildfire smoke to a higher risk of brain bleeds, noting that bleeds occurred 90 to 180 days after high pollution levels in a study of 70 patients over five years (these fine particles are 30 times smaller than a human hair).

Researchers plan to expand their work (to include more centers and better understand how inflammation triggers damage) to help inform stricter air quality rules.

Summer 2025 Tech Trek

Jul 15-17 — 1591 Jordan Ave, Provo, UT — $1500 per person — Dive into the latest features and tools for enhancing your PowerSchool experience.

Stories in the Park

9:30-9:50 a.m. — Lakeview Park — Free entry — Enjoy summer storytime under the sun in one of Provo's beautiful parks.

Utah Valley Operafest: The Elixir of Love

7-8 p.m. — Provo City Library at Academy Square — Tickets available — Experience the charm and humor of Donizetti’s beloved comic opera about love and a questionable elixir.

PMP Certification Training in Provo, UT

9 AM - 5 PM — Regus - Downtown Provo — $1599 — Comprehensive training for aspiring project managers to earn PMP certification.

Spanish Storytime for Little Ones

9:30-9:50 a.m. — Provo City Library at Academy Square — Free entry — Enjoy music, stories, and activities for children and their caregivers in a vibrant Spanish setting.

Artistry In Motion 2025

9 a.m. - 9 p.m. — Provo, 220 W Center St, Provo, UT — Ticket prices vary — Engage in hands-on art classes and insightful Q&A sessions with industry professionals.