Gas Prices

Gasoline prices continue to trend lower in Utah -- Motorists in Utah are enjoying lower prices at the pump as the global economic downturn continues to take a toll on demand worldwide, according to AAA Utah.

Statewide, the price of a gallon of regular unleaded plunged 74 cents to $1.61, down $1.46 from a year ago. In the Provo-Orem area, prices dropped 72 cents from a month ago to $1.55 a gallon. Nationally, prices are at $1.70, down 52 cents from a month ago, and down $1.30 from a year ago.

"It was only five months ago that oil was selling at more than three times today's price, and economist speculated what its peak price would be," said Rolayne Fairclough, AAA Utah's spokeswoman. "Today, the decreased demand for oil has created a glut on the world market and OPEC has difficulties controlling the price. Even though there are calls to reduce production levels, these cuts in the short term would further reduce members' revenues while inviting non-OPEC countries to step in to supply the market."

People on the Move

Utah Valley Home Builders exec retires -- Deann Huish, executive vice president of the Utah Valley Home Builders Association, is retiring at the end of the year. An open house will be on Friday from 1:30-3 p.m. Location: 1443 W. 800 North, Suite 103, Orem.

Huish, who has served for 20 years with the group, is being replaced by Caroline Merrill. Merrill, who is currently an events specialist with the group, was formerly with the Salt Lake Home Builders Association and the Home Builders Association of Utah.