Good morning, Provo.

A scam that impersonates professors tricked a UVU student out of $2,600 when she opened a fake account for a research project, and associate professor Dustin Harding said she filed a police report while the university’s IT department blacklisted the Gmail address+ he warned that similar emails may trick other students.

A new Deseret News/Hinckley Institute poll shows that almost 50% of Utah shoppers will spend less on holiday shopping even though experts expect overall sales to rise, mainly due to strong online deals—many lower-income and older buyers are tightening their budgets amid economic challenges.

The Great Salt Lake began its winter gains early after a wet October but remains about one foot below last year's levels, according to Brian Steed, Utah’s Great Salt Lake commissioner.

The lake needs a really big winter—supported by forecasts of above-normal December rains—to recover fully as conservation efforts continue amid air quality concerns.

Inter Miami, led by Lionel Messi, will face Real Salt Lake at America First Field on April 22nd, 2026.

RSL officials expect the game to boost ticket sales as MLS shifts its season to align with top international leagues—bringing a new window of play in warmer weather.

BYU basketball player Kennard Davis Jr. pleaded not guilty to a misdemeanor DUI charge in Provo City Justice Court after a two-car crash last Thursday that led police to note alleged marijuana possession—coach Kevin Young said he was aware of the details and Davis was suspended for breaking team rules, with a jury trial scheduled for January 12.

In women’s basketball on Wednesday night in Orem, Utah Valley defeated Weber State 59-55 as Cambree Blackham led with eight steals and 17 points — her key defensive stop with 4 seconds left secured the win.

Weber State wrestled with turnovers while Utah Valley, now 5-1, will play at Nevada on Monday.

In girls basketball, Bonneville won 73-17 over Kearns with Paytien Russell and teammates driving the win—West Field edged Bear River 44-42 after a strong fourth quarter.

In boys games, Box Elder beat Logan and Springville defeated Weber as several prep teams opened the season with notable plays.

PMP Certification Training in Provo, UT

9 AM – 5 PM — Regus - Downtown Provo — Early Bird discounts available — Get certified with 32 hours of interactive training and a money-back guarantee.

Elf The Musical

7 p.m. — Draper Historic Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the magic of Christmas with this joyful musical adaptation of the beloved holiday film.

Utah Valley Handbell Choir Concert for Kids

6:00 – 6:30 PM — Provo City Library at Academy Square — Registration required — Enjoy a delightful holiday concert designed for young children's entertainment.

2025 Utah County Santa Run 5K

4:45-5:45 p.m. — Salem Pond — Registration required — Dress in festive Santa suits for a scenic holiday fun run with cookies and milk along the route.

Family Movie Night: The Grinch

6:30-8:00 p.m. — Provo City Library — Free entry — Enjoy 'The Grinch' in Spanish while crafting your own Grinch heart decoration.

Utah Metropolitan Ballet - The Nutcracker

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Covey Center for the Arts — $30 to $65 — Experience magic in a winter wonderland with Clara and her enchanting adventure.

The Nutcracker by Utah Metropolitan Ballet

7-8:30 p.m. — Covey Center for the Arts — $30-$65 — Experience a magical journey through a winter wonderland with Clara and her enchanting adventures.