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Study: Latter-day Saint retention rate falls to 54%

The decline could reshape the religious and cultural makeup of Utah.

News

The share of U.S. adults raised as <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Latter-day Saints" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2026/07/16/latter-day-saint-missionaries-church-of-jesus-christ-mission-record" data-vars-content-id="516cd36e-a336-46ee-8c88-270afe65e5ce" data-vars-headline="Study: Latter-day Saint retention rate falls to 54%" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2026/07/16/latter-day-saint-missionaries-church-of-jesus-christ-mission-record" target="_self">Latter-day Saints</a> who still identify as members of the faith fell from 70% in 2007 to 54% in 2023-24, according to a new <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Pew Research Center study." data-vars-click-url="https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2026/09/22/tradition-and-change-among-latter-day-saints-in-the-us/" data-vars-content-id="516cd36e-a336-46ee-8c88-270afe65e5ce" data-vars-headline="Study: Latter-day Saint retention rate falls to 54%" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2026/09/22/tradition-and-change-among-latter-day-saints-in-the-us/" target="_blank">Pew Research Center study.</a>Why it matters: The decline could reshape the religious and cultural makeup of Utah, home to nearly <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="one in three Latter-day Saints" data-vars-click-url="https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2026/09/22/tradition-and-change-among-latter-day-saints-in-the-us/" data-vars-content-id="516cd36e-a336-46ee-8c88-270afe65e5ce" data-vars-headline="Study: Latter-day Saint retention rate falls to 54%" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2026/09/22/tradition-and-change-among-latter-day-saints-in-the-us/" target="_blank">one in three Latter-day Saints</a> in the U.S.

A "toddler rave" is coming to Salt Lake

Put your hands in the air, like a little teapot.

Picture this: A concert venue filled with glow sticks, dance beats — and tiny hands in the air.<ul><li>That&#x27;s coming to Salt Lake on Oct. 21, when Australian DJ Lenny Pearce brings his &quot;<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Toddler Rave" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/21/toddler-rave-lenny-pearce-tour-what-is" data-vars-content-id="2e16720e-5d11-43f2-bf2e-a98109baae42" data-vars-headline="A &quot;toddler rave&quot; is coming to Salt Lake" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/21/toddler-rave-lenny-pearce-tour-what-is" target="_self">Toddler Rave</a>&quot; to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Rockwell at The Complex" data-vars-click-url="https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/Z7r9jZ1A7Pt-y?landing=c" data-vars-content-id="2e16720e-5d11-43f2-bf2e-a98109baae42" data-vars-headline="A &quot;toddler rave&quot; is coming to Salt Lake" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/Z7r9jZ1A7Pt-y?landing=c" target="_blank">Rockwell at The Complex</a>.</li></ul>

Utah parents scramble for after-school care 

Some families are losing subsidies under new state and federal rules.

Hundreds of Utah families will start losing their child care subsidies this week — not just for daycare, but also for after-school care. Why it matters: Utah&#x27;s unmet demand for after-school care is already more critical than in most other states, according to the Afterschool Alliance&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="latest data" data-vars-click-url="https://afterschoolalliance.org/AA3PM/data/national/demand" data-vars-content-id="9aebdef2-445f-4d49-b87d-65d76dc5910a" data-vars-headline="Utah parents scramble for after-school care " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://afterschoolalliance.org/AA3PM/data/national/demand" target="_blank">latest data</a>.

Utah ranks second in the U.S. for library use

Cultural factors and large household sizes may contribute to why Utahns check out so many books.

Utah ranks second in the nation for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="public library use" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/10/library-book-checkout-map" data-vars-content-id="70366766-260c-4bfb-9073-bd7875642f4b" data-vars-headline="Utah ranks second in the U.S. for library use" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/10/library-book-checkout-map" target="_self">public library use</a>, with more than 11 checkouts per person, federal data shows.The big picture: Cultural factors and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="large household sizes" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2023/12/04/utah-three-generation-households-census" data-vars-content-id="70366766-260c-4bfb-9073-bd7875642f4b" data-vars-headline="Utah ranks second in the U.S. for library use" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2023/12/04/utah-three-generation-households-census" target="_self">large household sizes</a> may contribute to why Utahns check out more books than people in other states.

Former laundromat gets new life as Avenues tea and coffee house

The cozy cafe, which specializes in tea, sits inside a 1907 industrial building.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Gramercy" data-vars-click-url="https://www.gramercyhouseslc.com/" data-vars-content-id="60d835bf-4c21-42f2-9658-f0a9b0634874" data-vars-headline="Former laundromat gets new life as Avenues tea and coffee house" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.gramercyhouseslc.com/" target="_blank">Gramercy</a>, an ivy-covered tea house that was once a laundromat, opened this week in Salt Lake City&#x27;s Avenues neighborhood.The vibe: The cafe sits inside a 1907 industrial building, warmed by exposed brick, multi-pane windows and paper lanterns. It also includes an outdoor patio.

Junah named one of the New York Times' best U.S. restaurants

The Central Ninth fusion restaurant is the only Utah spot that made the list.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Junah" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2025/03/12/junah-restaurant-italian-japanese-central-ninth-opens" data-vars-content-id="82cba5c5-23dd-465e-838e-5772710f5ff8" data-vars-headline="Junah named one of the New York Times&#x27; best U.S. restaurants" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2025/03/12/junah-restaurant-italian-japanese-central-ninth-opens" target="_self">Junah</a>, a celebrated fine-dining establishment in Salt Lake City, made it on the New York Times&#x27; <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="annual list of the 50 best restaurants" data-vars-click-url="https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2026/dining/best-restaurants-america.html#junah" data-vars-content-id="82cba5c5-23dd-465e-838e-5772710f5ff8" data-vars-headline="Junah named one of the New York Times&#x27; best U.S. restaurants" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2026/dining/best-restaurants-america.html#junah" target="_blank">annual list of the 50 best restaurants</a> in the U.S.State of play: The restaurant in the trendy Central Ninth neighborhood is the only Beehive State eatery mentioned.

Salt Lake City weighs zoning changes to expand housing

The city is exploring zoning changes to allow more townhomes, duplexes and accessory dwelling units.

Salt Lake City is weighing new zoning rules that would allow property owners to expand housing options on their land.Why it matters: The city aims to make it easier for residents in lower-density neighborhoods to build townhomes, duplexes and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="small single-family dwellings" data-vars-click-url="https://www.slcdocs.com/Planning/Projects/Expanding%20Housing%20Options/EHO_Small_Lot_Dwellings.pdf" data-vars-content-id="0bac4fc4-aff2-494a-9a31-7cb8b35ba942" data-vars-headline="Salt Lake City weighs zoning changes to expand housing" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.slcdocs.com/Planning/Projects/Expanding%20Housing%20Options/EHO_Small_Lot_Dwellings.pdf" target="_blank">small single-family dwellings</a> on their properties to combat the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="state&#x27;s housing shortages and rising home costs" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2026/01/22/affordable-homes-salt-lake-utah" data-vars-content-id="0bac4fc4-aff2-494a-9a31-7cb8b35ba942" data-vars-headline="Salt Lake City weighs zoning changes to expand housing" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2026/01/22/affordable-homes-salt-lake-utah" target="_self">state&#x27;s housing shortages and rising home costs</a>.

What to expect at Matilda, Park City's Michelin-recommended pizzaria

Neither a hole in the wall, nor high-end, the restaurant serves up sourdough with a touch of class.

To call Matilda a pizzeria is both a bit of an understatement and an overstatement.<ul><li>It&#x27;s not a humble hole in the wall, which makes its ascent to the new <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="American Southwest Michelin guide" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2026/08/27/monte-salt-lake-michelin-star-utah-restaurants" data-vars-content-id="63a74e73-2d81-4b26-bc28-9b26752aa8c2" data-vars-headline="What to expect at Matilda, Park City&#x27;s Michelin-recommended pizzaria" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2026/08/27/monte-salt-lake-michelin-star-utah-restaurants" target="_self">American Southwest Michelin guide</a> a bit less cinematic than, say, that of Redwood Road&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Phở 777" data-vars-click-url="https://www.pho777utah.com/" data-vars-content-id="63a74e73-2d81-4b26-bc28-9b26752aa8c2" data-vars-headline="What to expect at Matilda, Park City&#x27;s Michelin-recommended pizzaria" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.pho777utah.com/" target="_blank">Phở 777</a>.</li></ul>

Remade state Supreme Court looks less like Utah than ever

State Supreme Court benches often don't reflect the communities they serve.

Two state Supreme Court justices were confirmed this week, bringing the body to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="seven members" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2026/06/19/utah-democrats-supreme-court-expansion-confirmations" data-vars-content-id="222ada8d-524e-406c-a98c-5385af7a25e3" data-vars-headline="Remade state Supreme Court looks less like Utah than ever" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2026/06/19/utah-democrats-supreme-court-expansion-confirmations" target="_self">seven members</a> for the first time — and its makeup doesn&#x27;t reflect the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="state&#x27;s increasingly diverse population" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2024/06/03/utah-diverse-population-inequality-education" data-vars-content-id="222ada8d-524e-406c-a98c-5385af7a25e3" data-vars-headline="Remade state Supreme Court looks less like Utah than ever" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2024/06/03/utah-diverse-population-inequality-education" target="_self">state&#x27;s increasingly diverse population</a>.Why it matters: State high courts shape major decisions on voting, abortion, civil rights and criminal justice, yet their benches often don&#x27;t mirror the communities they serve, Axios&#x27; Brad Jennings <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="reports" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/11/state-supreme-court-justices-representation" data-vars-content-id="222ada8d-524e-406c-a98c-5385af7a25e3" data-vars-headline="Remade state Supreme Court looks less like Utah than ever" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/11/state-supreme-court-justices-representation" target="_self">reports</a>.

Here's where Utah's universal by-mail elections stand

Here's what's new this year, and what to expect in future elections.

Utah&#x27;s midterm elections will take place by mail as usual, now that the U.S. Supreme Court has rejected President Trump&#x27;s last-minute effort to restrict mail ballots.Why it matters: Voting by mail is <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="wildly popular" data-vars-click-url="https://www.sltrib.com/news/politics/2026/08/18/most-utahns-rely-vote-by-mail/" data-vars-content-id="476535a0-a7ed-4a3a-b8d0-44b7d5330f84" data-vars-headline="Here&#x27;s where Utah&#x27;s universal by-mail elections stand" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.sltrib.com/news/politics/2026/08/18/most-utahns-rely-vote-by-mail/" target="_blank">wildly popular</a> in Utah, but a series of legal challenges and state policy debates have repeatedly put its future into question.

Equality Utah's GOP endorsements are under fire

Critics say the group should have put queer candidates ahead of "bridge-building."

Equality Utah&#x27;s midterm endorsements have drawn criticism over their support for GOP candidates rather than LGBTQ+ Democrats.Why it matters: It&#x27;s the latest in what critics describe as a pattern of capitulation by the most visible LGBTQ+ rights group in the state.

A year after Charlie Kirk's killing, where key figures stand now

The assassination of Charlie Kirk transformed the lives of several people caught in its orbit.

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/09/10/charlie-kirk-shot-utah-valley-university" data-vars-content-id="2e86ba6a-1e00-49ca-987a-75c57cc2abfa" data-vars-headline="A year after Charlie Kirk&#x27;s killing, where key figures stand now" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/09/10/charlie-kirk-shot-utah-valley-university" target="_self">assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk</a> upended the lives of several Utah figures, some of whom are still grappling through the aftermath a year after the fatal shooting.The big picture: The 31-year-old&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="killing" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/09/11/charlie-kirk-killing-trump-political-violence" data-vars-content-id="2e86ba6a-1e00-49ca-987a-75c57cc2abfa" data-vars-headline="A year after Charlie Kirk&#x27;s killing, where key figures stand now" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/09/11/charlie-kirk-killing-trump-political-violence" target="_self">killing</a> on Sept. 10, 2025, in a quiet college town <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="dubbed" data-vars-click-url="https://orem.gov/" data-vars-content-id="2e86ba6a-1e00-49ca-987a-75c57cc2abfa" data-vars-headline="A year after Charlie Kirk&#x27;s killing, where key figures stand now" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://orem.gov/" target="_blank">dubbed</a> &quot;Family City USA&quot; sent shockwaves across the nation.

Airbnb's broader fight over regulations reaches Salt Lake City

The friction in Salt Lake City centers on the city's enforcement methods.

Airbnb&#x27;s opposition over how Salt Lake City is enforcing its <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="short-term rental rules" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2026/07/01/short-term-rental-regulations-utah-limit" data-vars-content-id="f394a69f-f625-4a8d-b835-82c55da2ea4d" data-vars-headline="Airbnb&#x27;s broader fight over regulations reaches Salt Lake City" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2026/07/01/short-term-rental-regulations-utah-limit" target="_self">short-term rental rules</a> is the latest in a string of objections the company has made in communities around the U.S.Why it matters: Salt Lake City&#x27;s new regulations comes as local leaders aim to increase the city&#x27;s housing supply amid soaring costs and to improve neighborhood safety.

Salt Lake bucks "accidental landlord" trend

Sellers markets don't need to rent their inventory.

Around 1.5% of the Salt Lake metro&#x27;s rental listings on Zillow are from sellers the platform calls &quot;<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="accidental landlords" data-vars-click-url="https://www.zillow.com/research/accidental-landlords-36151/" data-vars-content-id="e56352b5-e07d-4de9-8f8a-e6565ac3d814" data-vars-headline="Salt Lake bucks &quot;accidental landlord&quot; trend" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.zillow.com/research/accidental-landlords-36151/" target="_blank">accidental landlords</a>.&quot;Why it matters: That&#x27;s one of the lowest shares in the nation of people who pulled their homes off the market and rented them out instead.

$1,500 now gets you less apartment space in Salt Lake City

We landed in the middle of the pack nationally for how much space $1,500 a month can buy.

For $1,500 a month, renters can expect a 737-square-foot apartment in Salt Lake City, 2.35% less space than a year ago, according to a new <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="RentCafe analysis" data-vars-click-url="https://www.rentcafe.com/blog/rental-market/market-snapshots/rental-space-for-1500/" data-vars-content-id="5df121fd-09ac-47ad-9be5-ce6288d71f0d" data-vars-headline="$1,500 now gets you less apartment space in Salt Lake City" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.rentcafe.com/blog/rental-market/market-snapshots/rental-space-for-1500/" target="_blank">RentCafe analysis</a>.The big picture: Utah&#x27;s capital ranked No. 120 out of 200 U.S. cities for how much space $1,500 a month can buy.

Salt Lake City tightens short-term rental requirements

The enhanced regulations will improve safety and reduce nuisances, city leaders say.

Beginning July 1, Salt Lake City will start requiring business licenses for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="short-term rentals" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2022/07/06/utah-short-term-rentals-rising" data-vars-content-id="be666e35-3c25-4018-899f-9ea8a3a494d0" data-vars-headline="Salt Lake City tightens short-term rental requirements" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2022/07/06/utah-short-term-rentals-rising" target="_self">short-term rentals</a> listed on Airbnb, Vrbo and other similar platforms.Why it matters: The enhanced regulations will improve safety and reduce nuisances, city leaders say.

Your Salt Lake City library card can save you money, too

For the month of September, Salt Lake City Library cardholders can get discounts at dozens of local businesses.

A Salt Lake City library card provides access to an endless supply of books, audiobooks and DVDs.<ul><li>But did you know it can also get you <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="deals" data-vars-click-url="https://services.slcpl.org/discounts" data-vars-content-id="93125305-ed99-48aa-a284-f8a80f73b7b4" data-vars-headline="Your Salt Lake City library card can save you money, too" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://services.slcpl.org/discounts" target="_blank">deals</a> at some of your favorite shops and restaurants?</li></ul>

Scoop: Koyoté will open a second restaurant in Park City

Koyoté was among Utah's first-ever Michelin Bib Gourmand winners announced last week.

Food and Drink

Koyoté, a cozy ramen shop in Salt Lake City&#x27;s west side that <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="opened to wide acclaim in 2024" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2024/02/02/koyote-fairpark-slc-ramen-japanese-food-restaurant" data-vars-content-id="536d6449-2032-4ad8-ace7-9534660d9c49" data-vars-headline="Scoop: Koyoté will open a second restaurant in Park City" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2024/02/02/koyote-fairpark-slc-ramen-japanese-food-restaurant" target="_self">opened to wide acclaim in 2024</a>, is launching a second location in Park City, Axios has learned.Why it matters: Fresh off a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="recent Michelin Bib Gourmand win" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2026/08/27/monte-salt-lake-michelin-star-utah-restaurants" data-vars-content-id="536d6449-2032-4ad8-ace7-9534660d9c49" data-vars-headline="Scoop: Koyoté will open a second restaurant in Park City" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2026/08/27/monte-salt-lake-michelin-star-utah-restaurants" target="_self">recent Michelin Bib Gourmand win</a>, the neighborhood restaurant in Fairpark is entering a new phase of growth.

Exclusive: Defense contractors unveil collaborative in Utah

The group could make smaller businesses more competitive in an industry where startups often don't have the resources to wait years for a big government payday.

Aerospace

Utah defense contractor CenCore has launched a coalition of businesses that plan to work together to win defense and intelligence agency contracts.Why it matters: The group — dubbed the Integrated Warfighter Ecosystem (IWE) — could make smaller businesses more competitive in an industry where startups often don&#x27;t have the resources to wait years for a big government payday, CenCore CEO Adam Fife tells Axios.

Whiskey Street secures $1 million to rebuild after blaze

The loan comes about a year after a fire tore through downtown's nightlife hub, destroying Whiskey Street.

Whiskey Street&#x27;s owners were awarded a $1 million loan by the city this week to install a new rooftop patio as the beloved bar and eatery undergoes a nearly $4 million rebuild.The big picture: The funding comes about a year after a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="fire tore through downtown&#x27;s nightlife hub" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2025/08/12/salt-lake-city-downtown-fire-bars-restaurants-recovery" data-vars-content-id="05c38e69-6fe1-4fee-979d-9384f315288b" data-vars-headline="Whiskey Street secures $1 million to rebuild after blaze" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2025/08/12/salt-lake-city-downtown-fire-bars-restaurants-recovery" target="_self">fire tore through downtown&#x27;s nightlife hub</a>, destroying Whiskey Street and other neighboring businesses.

Salt Lake City wants to help fund your community event

Applications are now open for the mayor's annual Arts, Culture and Entertainment Grant.

Have an idea for an event that brings Salt Lake City residents together?State of play: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Applications are now open" data-vars-click-url="https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/01a039bc6c307789b548048df433cd76" data-vars-content-id="27159f9b-337a-4c99-bb03-80bba3a9e900" data-vars-headline="Salt Lake City wants to help fund your community event" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/01a039bc6c307789b548048df433cd76" target="_blank">Applications are now open</a> for the mayor&#x27;s annual <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Arts, Culture and Entertainment Grant" data-vars-click-url="https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/f5f6788c754b42829b4042ed3d01598e" data-vars-content-id="27159f9b-337a-4c99-bb03-80bba3a9e900" data-vars-headline="Salt Lake City wants to help fund your community event" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/f5f6788c754b42829b4042ed3d01598e" target="_blank">Arts, Culture and Entertainment Grant</a>, which helps support festivals, neighborhood gatherings and cultural celebrations.

Utah reserves firing squad option as doubts rise over lethal injection

If Tennessee's botched execution ends lethal injection, Utah law spells out the state's backup plan.

Tennessee&#x27;s failed attempt to execute Christa Pike is <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="renewing scrutiny" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/01/christa-pike-lethal-injections-drugs-pentobarbital" data-vars-content-id="672fa963-6b42-43b9-9802-ba1790df637c" data-vars-headline="Utah reserves firing squad option as doubts rise over lethal injection" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/01/christa-pike-lethal-injections-drugs-pentobarbital" target="_self">renewing scrutiny</a> of lethal injection — but Utah law still reserves the firing squad as a backup plan.Why it matters: Lethal injection is Utah&#x27;s primary <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="execution" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2026/07/09/charlie-kirk-tyler-robinson-death-penalty-gary-gilmore-ron-lafferty" data-vars-content-id="672fa963-6b42-43b9-9802-ba1790df637c" data-vars-headline="Utah reserves firing squad option as doubts rise over lethal injection" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2026/07/09/charlie-kirk-tyler-robinson-death-penalty-gary-gilmore-ron-lafferty" target="_self">execution</a> method, used for five of the state&#x27;s eight executions since the U.S. Supreme Court approved the death penalty 50 years ago.

Salt Lake City to celebrate the 9th & 9th whale's new look

The new mural by local artist Jiyoun Lee-Lodge is inspired by the Great Salt Lake and Utah's open skies.

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="9th &amp; 9th whale" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2026/08/02/the-slc-whale-new-mural" data-vars-content-id="008cead4-6d96-4324-8d6a-d731152909ab" data-vars-headline="Salt Lake City to celebrate the 9th &amp; 9th whale&#x27;s new look" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2026/08/02/the-slc-whale-new-mural" target="_self">9th &amp; 9th whale</a> is making a splash with a new look.State of play: Salt Lake City is holding <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Whale Fest" data-vars-click-url="https://publicart.slc.gov/whale-fest-2026/" data-vars-content-id="008cead4-6d96-4324-8d6a-d731152909ab" data-vars-headline="Salt Lake City to celebrate the 9th &amp; 9th whale&#x27;s new look" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://publicart.slc.gov/whale-fest-2026/" target="_blank">Whale Fest</a> from 2-7pm Saturday to celebrate the landlocked whale&#x27;s new mural.

UVU audit reveals security gaps at Charlie Kirk event

In a recent legal notice, Kirk's family said the university's lack of security measures led to his death.

Utah Valley University released on Friday a highly anticipated <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="review" data-vars-click-url="https://www.uvu.edu/externalreview/docs/after-action-report.pdf" data-vars-content-id="44dbe4cd-aee1-400a-b6f3-87e1a1a973a3" data-vars-headline="UVU audit reveals security gaps at Charlie Kirk event" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.uvu.edu/externalreview/docs/after-action-report.pdf" target="_blank">review</a> of the events surrounding <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Charlie Kirk&#x27;s assassination" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/09/10/charlie-kirk-shot-utah-valley-university" data-vars-content-id="44dbe4cd-aee1-400a-b6f3-87e1a1a973a3" data-vars-headline="UVU audit reveals security gaps at Charlie Kirk event" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/09/10/charlie-kirk-shot-utah-valley-university" target="_self">Charlie Kirk&#x27;s assassination</a> on campus last year.Why it matters: The independent audit shows that UVU deferred key planning decisions for Kirk&#x27;s campus event to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Turning Point USA" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/09/10/charlie-kirk-turning-point-one-year-anniversary-assassination" data-vars-content-id="44dbe4cd-aee1-400a-b6f3-87e1a1a973a3" data-vars-headline="UVU audit reveals security gaps at Charlie Kirk event" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/09/10/charlie-kirk-turning-point-one-year-anniversary-assassination" target="_self">Turning Point USA</a>, the organization he co-founded.

Where to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in Utah

The monthlong celebration honors Latino heritage, culture and history in the U.S.

Hispanic Heritage Month is underway, with events around the Salt Lake Valley celebrating Latino culture and history in the U.S.Why it matters: Latinos are one of the state&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="fastest-growing demographic" data-vars-click-url="https://www.ksl.com/article/51548825/the-main-motor-latinos-accounted-for-nearly-half-of-utahs-growth-from-2020-to-2025" data-vars-content-id="89944850-0d2c-454c-9e22-990bc938a47b" data-vars-headline="Where to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in Utah" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.ksl.com/article/51548825/the-main-motor-latinos-accounted-for-nearly-half-of-utahs-growth-from-2020-to-2025" target="_blank">fastest-growing demographic</a> groups, representing nearly 1 in 5 Utahns.

The first white people in Utah

Escalante and Domínguez promised salvation. Then they left.

Two Franciscan priests arrived at the Wasatch Front 250 years ago this week.Why it mattered: The expedition of Silvestre Vélez de Escalante and Atanasio Domínguez was the first time white people were documented to have set foot in what is now Utah.

What UTA's proposed fare hike could mean for transit riders

It would be the transit agency's first fare hike since 2013.

The Utah Transit Authority is considering a base fare hike that would bring the cost of a ride in line with <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="New York City&#x27;s" data-vars-click-url="https://www.mta.info/fares-tolls/2025-changes" data-vars-content-id="2be8c671-e43b-4d73-b49f-afa0bf91c468" data-vars-headline="What UTA&#x27;s proposed fare hike could mean for transit riders" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.mta.info/fares-tolls/2025-changes" target="_blank">New York City&#x27;s</a>.Why it matters: It would be the transit agency&#x27;s first fare hike since 2013 and could impact daily riders already facing <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="cost-of-living challenges." data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/12/inflation-wages-energy-shock" data-vars-content-id="2be8c671-e43b-4d73-b49f-afa0bf91c468" data-vars-headline="What UTA&#x27;s proposed fare hike could mean for transit riders" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/12/inflation-wages-energy-shock" target="_self">cost-of-living challenges.</a>

Axios Social Club brings mystery dinners to Salt Lake City

Meet fellow locals over dinner at a restaurant we hand-picked.

Things to Do

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Axios Social Club" data-vars-click-url="https://axiossocialclub.dnnr.io/" data-vars-content-id="4058161a-9bed-45ab-9c41-2e99e20b3092" data-vars-headline="Axios Social Club brings mystery dinners to Salt Lake City" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://axiossocialclub.dnnr.io/" target="_blank">Axios Social Club</a> is bringing readers together for dinner in Salt Lake City&#x27;s Sugar House neighborhood on Tuesday, Oct. 6.Why it matters: Your city is full of interesting people you haven&#x27;t met yet. We&#x27;re making it easier to change that.

Tower of Terror sees attendance rise as audiences flock to horror movies

Attendance for the annual event has grown 35% between 2022 and 2025.

Broadway Centre Cinemas&#x27; annual <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Tower of Terror horror film series" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2025/08/15/tower-of-terror-horror-film-lineup-2025-halloween" data-vars-content-id="2fc78e33-fb82-4073-b73d-c54527db5b58" data-vars-headline="Tower of Terror sees attendance rise as audiences flock to horror movies" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2025/08/15/tower-of-terror-horror-film-lineup-2025-halloween" target="_self">Tower of Terror horror film series</a> is pulling bigger crowds as horror goes mainstream. Why it matters: The genre is <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="drawing more moviegoers" data-vars-click-url="https://www.reuters.com/business/media-telecom/studios-bet-horror-films-reanimate-cinemas-2025-07-05/" data-vars-content-id="2fc78e33-fb82-4073-b73d-c54527db5b58" data-vars-headline="Tower of Terror sees attendance rise as audiences flock to horror movies" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.reuters.com/business/media-telecom/studios-bet-horror-films-reanimate-cinemas-2025-07-05/" target="_blank">drawing more moviegoers</a> and earning new respect from critics after decades of being <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="dismissed" data-vars-click-url="https://www.kcrw.com/shows/press-play-with-madeleine-brand/stories/sinners-nabs-record-16-oscar-noms-has-horror-finally-found-respect" data-vars-content-id="2fc78e33-fb82-4073-b73d-c54527db5b58" data-vars-headline="Tower of Terror sees attendance rise as audiences flock to horror movies" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.kcrw.com/shows/press-play-with-madeleine-brand/stories/sinners-nabs-record-16-oscar-noms-has-horror-finally-found-respect" target="_blank">dismissed</a> as lowbrow.

The FanX celebrity lineup keeps getting bigger

With Gene Simmons on the guest list, it's stranger than fiction.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="FanX" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2025/09/25/fanx-guide-best-panels-celebrity-events" data-vars-content-id="af864059-e0ae-4269-bd10-8b9f15484c3c" data-vars-headline="The FanX celebrity lineup keeps getting bigger" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2025/09/25/fanx-guide-best-panels-celebrity-events" target="_self">FanX</a> is bringing a galaxy&#x27;s worth of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="stars" data-vars-click-url="https://fanxsaltlake.com/guests/" data-vars-content-id="af864059-e0ae-4269-bd10-8b9f15484c3c" data-vars-headline="The FanX celebrity lineup keeps getting bigger" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://fanxsaltlake.com/guests/" target="_blank">stars</a> to Salt Lake this weekend, with a guest lineup that has fully escaped niche-fandom containment.Why it matters: The appearance of more Hollywood A-listers is broadening the notion of &quot;fandom&quot; at FanX beyond tight-knit, sometimes-elitist communities that recite deep cuts and debate the limits of &quot;canon.&quot;

Park City welcomes new Canopy by Hilton hotel at Deer Valley

It includes 180 rooms, four food and drink options and direct access to the Jordanelle Express Gondola.

Skiers have a new place to stay in Park City just in time for winter fun.Driving the news: Utah&#x27;s first <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Canopy by Hilton" data-vars-click-url="https://www.hilton.com/en/brands/canopy-by-hilton/" data-vars-content-id="7699db03-2939-47b3-b787-07aaac925162" data-vars-headline="Park City welcomes new Canopy by Hilton hotel at Deer Valley" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.hilton.com/en/brands/canopy-by-hilton/" target="_blank">Canopy by Hilton</a> recently opened at the base of Deer Valley, bringing a new boutique hotel to the posh resort town.

Your guide to spooky season in Salt Lake

Your guide to the best spooky season attractions in town.

Salt Lake&#x27;s Halloween attractions are launching earlier and earlier, with most of the biggies opening this weekend. Why it matters: Halloween is <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="so big" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2024/10/29/utah-trick-or-treaters-halloween" data-vars-content-id="fac7a836-a722-4574-b060-53ecc4a8108e" data-vars-headline="Your guide to spooky season in Salt Lake" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2024/10/29/utah-trick-or-treaters-halloween" target="_self">so big</a> in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Utah" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2025/07/01/rocky-mountain-haunters-slc-halloween-utah" data-vars-content-id="fac7a836-a722-4574-b060-53ecc4a8108e" data-vars-headline="Your guide to spooky season in Salt Lake" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2025/07/01/rocky-mountain-haunters-slc-halloween-utah" target="_self">Utah</a> that it&#x27;s hard to fit all the fun into one month.

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Utah reserves firing squad option as doubts rise over lethal injection

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