City Weekly October 3, 2024

SALT LAKE COUNTY’S CANDIDATES FOR MAYOR, COUNCIL AND STATE SCHOOL BOARD MAKE THEIR CASE TO VOTERS.

BY BENJAMIN WOOD

S AP

BOX

Sticks and Stones

Ryan Wesley Routh

“believed the rhetoric of Biden and Harris, and he acted on it,” Donald Trump said in a Fox News interview after Routh was caught apparently lying in wait for—and with ill intentions toward—the former president. “Their rhetoric is causing me to be shot at ...”

Well, no, for two reasons. The less important reason is that neither Biden nor Harris have ever publicly incited the murder of opposing domestic political candidates and have, in fact, inveighed against Trump’s would-be assassins.

Even if you don’t believe Biden and Harris possess strong moral fiber, that still makes sense.

Our masters find the idea of being hunted by mere serfs horrifying, and that horror expresses itself as a protective attitude even toward their opponents within the ruling class.

Cabin-dwelling “patriot” bumpkins and dirty hippie street protesters? Fair game! But touch not the elite! They don’t want to let that genie out of the bottle.

The more important reason is that words have neither eyes with which to look through a scope nor fingers with which to squeeze a trigger. That takes a person with the freedom/agency to make decisions.

While actual incitement—as opposed to mean tweets or snarky references—might rise to the level of plausible conspiratorial involvement, an assassination attempt requires overt acts: acquiring a weapon; learning to use it; seeking out or lying in wait for the target; aiming the weapon; firing it.

So far as we know, Joe Biden didn’t play straw buyer to procure a weapon for

Routh, nor did Harris give the man a lift in her limo, dropping him off near Trump’s golf course, nor have either of them ever spoken with or directly to him.

All this blather about “civility” and “lowering the temperature” and Person A’s political speechification somehow making Person A responsible for Person B’s actions, even if Person A doesn’t know Person B from Adam is just that: Blather.

Sticks and stones may break our bones, but words can’t, for the most part, buy a gun for someone else or force that someone else to aim and fire it.

We’re all responsible for our own actions. If we let ourselves become obsessed with or deranged by political rhetoric such that we engage in counter-productive violence (hint: If Routh or Thomas Matthew Crooks had succeeded in killing Trump, the MAGA cult would have become stronger, not weaker), that’s on us.

THOMAS L. KNAPP

The William Lloyd Garrison Center for Libertarian Advocacy Journalism

“Daggers and Plows,”

Sept. 19 Opinion

Wes Long was 100% with his column. I renamed the USA the USG—for Gouging—in which a lot of people have no conscience on what they charge others as long as they can make an extra almighty dollar. Our values of honesty, integrity, discipline and character have given way to money. In life it’s not what you take, it’s what you give that makes the difference.

BARRY HECKER

Murray

“Common Folk,” Sept. 26 Dine

A classic downton mainstay. Long live Copper Common!

ORCHIDDYNASTY Via Instagram

Copper Common never misses!

WAGS_CARLISLE Via Instagram

Care to sound off? Write to us at comments@ cityweekly.net or post on our social media.

THE WATER COOLER

What is the best way to waste time?

Benjamin Wood

Explore your neighborhood! Start with a walk around the block and duck down any alleys or side streets you’ve never checked out. You just might find a useful connection hiding in plain sight.

Eric Granato

A good podcast.

Wes Long

If by “waste” one means intentional misuse, I would say that it would be in aspiring to be rich and famous. The best way to use one’s time, on the other hand, would be in making memories and building relationships with other humans and animals.

Katharine Biele

Committee work is the most notable waste of time.

Bryan Bale

Just take a drive through any of Utah’s many construction zones. That’ll waste at least half a day.

Krista Maggard

Social media for sure—sometimes I’ll start scrolling and before I know it a full hour has passed. It’s too easy!

Carolyn Campbell

Surfing social media on a cell phone.

BY CHRISTOPHER SMART

OPINION Rubber Chickens

Utah and its residents can be proud of a lot of things. True, the state Legislature often acts like a bunch of circus monkeys, the state liquor store doesn’t sell cold beer ‘cause it would promote drinking and ... well, the list goes on.

But we have cool stuff, too. Wilson, did you know that the first KFC was right here on State Street in South Salt Lake? True story.

Think of it, Colonel Sanders is now worldwide—you can get drumsticks in Vietnam and India. Utah had the first department store—Zions Cooperative Mercantile Institution, aka ZCMI, and it’s still here. A Utah native, Walter Frederick Morrison, invented the Frisbee. But get this: Another native son, Philo T. Farnsworth, invented TV. You’re right Wilson, that is big.

Here’s a shocker: Loftus International, based in Salt Lake City, sells some 20,000 rubber chickens each year. That’s a lot of rubber chickens. Why don’t we have that on our “Life Elevated” billboards? Utah, of course, has many natural wonders, but this is not one of them although it is notable. Lake Powell—it’s actually a man-made reservoir—has more shoreline than the U.S. West Coast. (Put an asterisk here, it’s drying up.) Imagine what might have been if, when Brigham Young arrived at the Valley of the Great Salt Lake in 1847, a soothsayer had told him all this stuff would come true. Rather than saying, “This is the place,” he might have uttered something like, “Holy shit.” Then the edifice at the mouth of Emigration Canyon would be called the Holy Shit Monument. Just a thought.

Relaxed and Depressed? You Must Live in Salt Lake City If you’re just checking in to see what condition your condition is in, you might be interested in a new study that finds

Utah’s capital is one of the most relaxed cities in America. Wilson and the guys in the band are just one example of how mellow and laid back we really are—unless driving or talking to missionaries.

But there is a catch, according to a study by Ben’s Natural Health that analyzed 31 U.S. cities. (We are not making this up.) It found that 22.7% of Salty City residents suffer from depression. Bummer.

But Wilson does make a good point: How do you distinguish between “relaxed” and “depressed”—some depressed people look relaxed and vice versa. One metric might be the assumption that depressed people eat more ice cream and drink more Mountain Dew than other folks. By contrast, Salt Lakers who are simply relaxed but not depressed tend toward iced caramel macchiatos. Wilson would like to make another point about herbal self-medication, but we’ll skip that for now.

It’s not all bad news: Salt Lake City is not in the Top 10 for ice cream consumption. Some other places might be even more depressed. However, we are still Numero Uno when it comes to Bill Cosby’s favorite dessert—Jell-O!

Leaving Jell-O vodka shooters aside, you’ve got to believe that’s a good thing. It is our state snack, after all. And like Jell-O, we do jiggle a lot.

Trump E-bikes—World’s Best—Get Yours Now!

Hey Wilson, do you need a new watch? You and the guys in the band might want to jump on this. The Trump Victory Tourbillon watch is only $100,000. It’s a deal ‘cause they’re already historic.

How many former presidents hawked watches? Just imagine how much they’ll be worth later. On second thought, never mind.

“Exciting” is the only way to describe the Trump World Catalog: Bibles—$60; digital trading cards—$99 each; gold “Never Surrender” high top sneakers—$400; Trump coins—$100 each.

But wait, there’s more. Soon to be released, according to unnamed sources: Donald Trump E-bikes! These Trumpozilla E-bikes blow the competition away. All Trumpozilla bikes come standard with the heavy-duty Mar-a-Lago frame, Stormy-D disk brakes and unparalleled E. Jean Carroll drivetrain.

It’s a steal for only $7,999. And get this, they have Trump’s signature in gold paint. You’ll be stylin’ in your Trump Apparel spandex onesie. This beautiful unisex gold cycling outfit comes with Trump’s name on the front, back and down the legs. And with the purchase of any Trumpozilla E-bike, you get the onesie for only $499. Be the envy of your red-state neighborhood.

Get ‘em while supplies last. Next week, look for Don’s Cheater Championship golf clubs. You’ll never shoot a bad round again.

Postscript—That’s a wrap for another beautiful week here at Smart Bomb, where we keep track of LDS general authorities, so you don’t have to. Here’s an interesting headline from The Salt Lake Tribune: “He’s a Democrat and an environmentalist. How did he end up an LDS general authority?” Just shocking!

Here in Zion, Democrats and environmentalists are thought to be in league with Beelzebub. The headline more than suggests a liberal tree-hugger. Of course, we’re talking about Steven E. Snow, the former historian for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He once said climate change is real and he still has a Temple Recommend.

This could be a breakthrough, Wilson. Other Mormon environmentalists might think it’s safe to come out of the closet. They might say stuff like, it’s OK to save the Great Salt Lake. Well, maybe that’s going a little too far.

If God wanted to save the lake, he’d tell legislators that it’s time to stop using Bear River water to grow alfalfa that is shipped to China. Maybe start with something a little less in your face, like regulations aimed at reducing industrial pig-farm waste. It’s a slippery slope (no pun intended).

Here’s a headline from the Deseret News: “Former GOP Sen. Jeff Flake (a Mormon) explains his endorsement of Kamala Harris.” Next these rebels will be singing “This Land Is Your Land,” a known socialist anthem directly in conflict with free market capitalism. What’s next, Social Security and Medicare? Oh wait … CW

Private Eye is off this week. Christopher Smart writes the weekly “Smart Bomb” column, available each week at cityweekly.net. Send feedback to comments@cityweekly.net.

HITS & MISSES

BY KATHARINE BIELE | @kathybiele BY BRYANT HEATH

MISS: Armed and Dangerous

If you missed the part about Kamala Harris and her guns, you might be missing the point altogether. She supports the 2nd Amendment, but she’s also armed and ready to shoot someone—not because the government is coming but because our armed citizens might be. The United States has more guns than people—more suicides, higher incarceration rates and just about more of everything dangerous than other countries. That was highlighted in a New York Times article from Sep. 28 that looked at the consequences of gun culture. If you’re paying attention, you know three Utah children were recently the victims of guns in their own hands. The Legislature slow-walked a law that might have saved them by providing tax credits to owners who lock up weapons. It was a bridge too far for the Republican supermajority in the Senate. That State Rep. Matt MacPherson, R-West Valley, will reintroduce the legislation in the next session gives hope—but not much. The Times compared the blindness to the fondness for oil and coal while ignoring the ramifications to the health of the nation.

MISS: Seeing Clearly

Your fall planting headquarters

This brings us to air quality, the regional haze from air pollution that blocks views and harms health. The Salt Lake Tribune drew a line from health issues to tourism. Will that convince lawmakers to pay attention? There are industries that depend on tourism because of the vistas, outdoor recreation and world-renowned natural phenomena like the Great Salt Lake. Park officials worry the haze will dampen interest in visiting the Mighty 5, Utah’s national parks. Colors are muted, the air unbreathable and the night skies clouded by light and pollution. “The industry generated $12.71 billion and supported 159,800 jobs in 2023,” the Tribune noted on Sep. 25. It’s not like no one is aware of the challenges. There are lawsuits and, in the Utah Way, voluntary effort by industries to help solve the problem. By the time the air clears, though, tourists may be migrating elsewhere.

HIT: Full Court Press

If you listened to the recent Utah Supreme Court case League of Women Voters v. Utah Legislature, you might have heard confusion over newspapers— what they are and how they serve the public. In essence, there aren’t many left. Some analysts predict the decline in local newspapers is so great that the U.S. will have lost one-third by the end of the year. Even as virtual papers try to step in, they can’t stop the degradation of local news, especially in small communities. So, you should be heartened—for now—that a Fourth District Judge threw out a defamation suit by a Millard County developer against the Millard County Chronicle Progress. The paper had printed articles that the developer claimed had harmed him and his plans to build in the community. If you read accounts of the case, you’ll see that being pissed off at coverage is not enough to show defamation. CW

Olympic Leftovers

With an early-morning announcement and a crowd of a few thousand locals in various stages of tiredness and caffenation outside the City and County building, Salt Lake City was formally awarded the 2034 Winter Olympics this past July. We will now join the esteemed ranks of other bustling metropolitan cities who have put on multiple winter games: St. Moritz, Switzerland (population 4,928), Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy (5,669) and Innsbruck, Austria (hey, an actual city!).

At least we are the first two-time Winter Olympics host in the US … wait, that’s not true either?! Lake Placid, New York seems to have beat us with that one way back in 1980.

Ok, so maybe this isn’t so historic after all, but the feeling in the valley is … well … not quite palpable but more of a resigned acceptance with a bit of self interest mixed in. “How much do you think I can rent my place on AirBnB?” is a common response.

But hey, it’s happening! Kind of.

It wouldn’t be a true Salt Lake City Olympics without a little bit of drama and evidently some conditions—like having to lobby the U.S. Government to drop an investigation into suspected doping by Chinese swimmers—apply.

But contract contingencies be damned, we’re getting the Olympics! Let’s get excited!

In some ways, we haven’t really gotten over the last Olympics in 2002, as there are vestiges of those games scattered throughout the city. Of course, you have the widely recognizable monuments like the Olympic Cauldron outside Rice-Eccles Stadium or the resurrected Hoberman Arch, newly installed at the airport. But if you look closely, you’ll find some other not-sosignificant sights that have somehow survived the past 22 years intact.

The most notable are a series of large sandstones that are placed at seemingly random spots, like near the 15th and 15th commercial area and the Ballpark Playground at West Temple and Van Buren Ave. Evidently, this was an initiative of the City Council to provide a bit of a scavenger hunt feel for visitors to traverse the city locating them all.

Similarly, there are a series of flagpoles—most visibly at the entrance to Great Salt Lake State Park—that have the Olympic rings and “Salt Lake 2002” emblazoned on their bases. Although most of these can be found outside notable areas, there is one I’ve spotted, bizarrely, outside a West Valley City home—a testament to how residents easily succumb to Olympic fever.

But my favorite oddball commemoration comes courtesy of the Taco Time located at 800 South and State Street. This location is already unique due to its gigantic, cactus-shaped sign. But for those patrons who skip the drivethru and decide to dine inside, they’ll be greeted by a large piece of etched metalwork near the entrance, proudly recognizing SLC’s 2002 Winter Games.

And if an ornate sign outside a chain taco shop close to downtown Salt Lake City doesn’t fully capture the Olympic spirit, I don’t know what would—2034, here we go! CW

TRUE TV

Hail Satan

Make Halloween devilish again with these Satanic Panic flicks.

BY BILL FROST comments@cityweekly.net

I

t’s the most Satanic time of the year! Yes, Halloween has been assimilated into the mainstream as a holiday equal to Christmas, Thanksgiving and 4/20, but some of us recall when it was all about The Devil. In that spirit, I’ve conjured up a few deep cuts from the Satanic Panic film genre, which made a creepy comeback this summer with Longlegs (which you can still see in a theater, if you’re into that).

We Summon the Darkness (2019; Peacock, Prime Video, Tubi): In 1988, three young girls (Alexandra Daddario, Maddie Hasson and Amy Forsyth) rock out at a heavy metal concert as news of Satanic murders spreads. After the show, the trio invites three metalhead dudes to party at a remote mansion, where things go sideways and bloody. It’s revealed that the girls are part of the Manson-lite Daughters of the Dawn cult, and the unwitting boys are sacrificial dead meat. We Summon the Darkness is hella fun.

Satanic Panic (2019; AMC+): Her first night as a pizza delivery driver isn’t going great for Sam (Hayley Griffith), and it’s about to get worse when she stumbles across a suburban Satanic coven. They need a virgin womb to birth the demon Baphomet, and Sam fits the unfortunate bill. BTW, Satanic Panic is a comedy, as evidenced by an over-the-top Rebecca Romijn as the coven’s leader and a slimy, soul-patched Jerry O’Connell as her

A&E

cuckold husband. It’s hilarious trash with a twist ending that’s wonderfully weird.

Starry Eyes (2014; Peacock, Pluto TV, Tubi): Aspiring actress Sarah (Alexandra Essoe) will do anything to land a movie role, including being transformed into a demon by a cult-associated production company. Finally, proof that Hollywood is evil. Starry Eyes is a mind-bending ride with grotesque surprises around every corner, like Requiem for a Dream with a subtle showbiz satire agenda. Even more obscure, the deity worshiped by the cult is Astraeus, the mythological Greek “God of the Dusk.” Ooo, scary!

The Lords of Salem (2013; Prime Video, Pluto TV, Tubi): The Lords of Salem was written and directed by Rob Zombie, and stars his wife, Sheri Moon Zombie. If that didn’t send you screaming away, The Lords of Salem is probably for you. When radio DJ Heidi (Moon Zombie) receives a record

from The Lords, she plays it and suddenly has violent visions of Salem’s witchy past. Her nightmares climax at a Lords concert/ Satanic ritual where she gives birth to a demon catfish atop a pile of dead, naked women. So, subtle for Rob.

The House of the Devil (2009; Peacock, Prime Video, Tubi): Years before his acclaimed X/ Pearl/MaXXXine trilogy, Ti West wrote and directed The House of the Devil, a taut slasher flick set in the ’80s, ground zero for Satanic Panic. Broke college student Sam (Jocelin Donahue) accepts a babysitting job at a remote mansion, only to find out that she’ll actually be caring for an elderly woman. One drugged pizza later (mmm, drugged pizza), Sam wakes up as the star of an occult ritual. A slow burn, but worth the wait.

Trick or Treat (1986; Screambox): When high-school outcast Eddie (Marc Price of Family Ties!) and radio DJ Nuke (Gene Simmons of Kiss!) play the final album of dead

rock star Sammi (Tony Fields of … A Chorus Line?) backwards, he comes back to hellfire-powered life. Not only does the campy Trick or Treat have some of the gnarliest death-by-guitar scenes since Slumber Party Massacre II, it also features the greatest metal album title ever: Songs in the Key of Death. Also: Ozzy Osbourne as a televangelist.

The Devil’s Rain (1975; AMC+, Pluto TV, Tubi): The most evil aspect of The Devil’s Rain is that it’s the movie that turned a young John Travolta into a Scientologist. Steve Preston’s (George Sawaya) wife (Ida Lupino) and son (William Shatner) have been abducted by a Satanic cult led by John Corbis (Ernest Borgnine), leading to many a scene with Shatner and Borgnine Acting! As! Hard! As! They! Can! against each other. As for Travolta, he has zero lines, but is melted by Satan Juice. Scientology was inevitable. CW

We Summon the Darkness

theESSENTIALS ENTERTAINMENT PICKS,

RDT: Noa

It might be something of a cliché to say that dance is a language all its own—but in the case of the work created by Israeliborn dancer/choreographer Noa Zuk, that’s literally true. The veteran began her career with Batsheva Dance Company under the tutelage of choreographer Ohad Naharin, where Zuk learned the movement language that became known as Gaga—described in a Repertory Dance Theatre press release as “a physically challenging, multisensory experience that enhances flexibility, stamina, agility, coordination, and efficiency while fostering awareness, sensitivity, and generosity.”

Zuk’s collaboration with RDT goes back nearly a decade, with the 2016 commission By the Snake, and continuing with 2019’s Outdoors. This summer, Zuk participated in the collaborative workshop Dance West, taking the opportunity to restage a 2014 piece of hers which is now titled Gringo, Gringo, featuring a duet and a group section. Zuk describes her creative style as “very physical from beginning to end. I approach movement by way of sensation—attempting to awaken corporeal awareness throughout the moving body. I am always in search of dynamic clarity, marrying movement and sound together so tightly that nothing can come between them.”

Repertory Dance Theatre’s presentation of Noa comes to the Rose Wagner Center’s Jeanne Wagner Theatre (138 W. 300 South) Oct. 3 – 5, with performances 7:30 p.m. nightly. This season-opening production also marks the launch of RDT’s new tiered pricing structure—with tickets $15 - $45—intended to provide greater accessibility for audiences. Visit arttix.org to purchase tickets and for additional event information. (Scott Renshaw)

Pygmalion Theatre Company: Tender Hooks

You don’t have to look very far into news headlines to find stories of people who are deeply concerned about “others” coming into “their” neighborhoods. That’s why celebrated Utah playwright Julie Jensen feels that there’s something relevant and universal to the story of her play Tender Hooks, even though it’s a period piece set in rural Southern Utah. “It’s a play about class, and it involves the point of view of one who is afraid of the people who have moved in next door,” Jensen said. “Why is she afraid of them? She judges them … as less than, and not as good as the people in her town or herself, but she’s afraid of them, and so it really is a play about fear and class, and how those two kind of co-mingle.”

The “others” in Tender Hooks are the Hicks family—a mother with five children, each of whom has a physical difference. They move in next door to long-time resident LaPriel, who expresses anxiety and concern about these odd new neighbors. Says Brenda Hattingh, who plays Mrs. Hicks, “There is a lot of judging people on appearance in this play. … Often we don’t realize that once we start a conversation, like in the play, a lot of those initial impressions change, mostly for the better. We could use more of that in our communities.”

Pygmalion Theatre Company’s production of Julie Jensen’s Tender Hooks plays at the Rose Wagner Center’s Black Box Theater (138 W. 300 South) Oct. 4 – 19; performance dates and times vary. Tickets are $15 - $22.50 at arttix.org. (SR)

Broadway at the Eccles: Funny Girl

The year 1964 was an iconic time in the world of entertainment. The British Invasion had begun, with the Beatles at the helm. The cultural climate was rapidly shifting from the staid 1950s to the swinging ‘60s. And a young, upand-coming entertainer named Barbra Streisand was making her mark as a popular entertainer. She subsequently got a big career boost when she was chosen for the lead role in the Broadway musical Funny Girl, based on the life and career of Jewish comedian, stage star and all-round entertainer Fanny Brice and her tumultuous relationship with the slick entrepreneur, gambler and man-about-town Nicky Arnstein.

The show introduced one of the most iconic scores of all time courtesy of composers Jule Styne and Bob Merrill, with songs that became standards, such as “Don’t Rain On My Parade,” “I’m the Greatest Star” and “People” in particular. The current cast in this touring production features Hannah Shankman as Fanny, Grammy Award-winner Melissa Manchester as Mrs. Brice and Stephen Mark Lukas as Nicky. In addition to the memorable music and dazzling choreography, it shares the story about a girl from New York’s Lower East Side who aspired to be an entertainer, but was told she’d never be a star. Then a funny thing happened: This funny girl surprised them all, and even now, she continues to entertain and inspire.

The touring production of Funny Girl will be presented at the Eccles Theater (131 S. Main St.) Oct. 8 - 13. Performance times vary. Tickets cost $49 - $169; visit arttix.org for tickets and additional event info. (Lee Zimmerman)

From Our Friends At

October Screens

A Different Man, The Outrun and this month’s special screenings

BY SCOTT RENSHAW scottr@cityweekly.net @scottrenshaw

A Different Man AA½

For all the funky details in writer/director Aaron Schimberg’s psychological comedy-drama-thriller, it ultimately feels like a long walk towards a pretty simple idea. Our protagonist Edward Lemuel (Sebastian Stan) is a struggling New York actor facing perhaps a greater obstacle even than most struggling New York actors: His extreme facial deformities somewhat limit his options. When an experimental medical procedure results in a complete transformation of his appearance, however, Edward sees the opportunity to effectively start his life over again. From the outset, you can tell that Schimberg is aiming for a vibe that mixes Barton Fink-era Coen brothers with Charlie Kaufman in its surreal imagery and occasional deadpan humor, augmented by a terrific Umberto Smerilli score. But as the story transitions into its second half—and Edward begins to confront not just what his new face has gained him, but what it has cost him—there’s not much deeper thematic material to keep the story popping. The terrific performance by Under the Skin’s Adam Pearson emphasizes the idea that you are, ultimately, who you are, and that some limitations are all about how you choose to approach them—and by the time you’ve latched on to the likelihood that the title is meant ironically, there isn’t a whole lot left but waiting for the other ironies to get progressively over-the-top. Available Oct. 4 in theaters. (R)

The Outrun AAA

The changes that director/co-screenwriter Nora Fingscheidt makes to Amy Liptrot’s recovery memoir feel weirdly arbitrary, but the result is still an effective drama about personal growth and a sense of place, anchored by a terrific lead performance. Saoirse Ronan plays Rona, a 29-year-old native of Scotland’s Orkney Islands who returns home to the family farm after bottoming out in her alcoholism and going through an outpatient program. Fingscheidt weaves back and forth through time, flashing back both to Rona’s childhood marked by her father’s bipolar disorder, and to the out-of-control life that eventually costs her an important romantic relationship, and the fractured chronology effectively captures someone trying to process the past and get out from under the weight of it. It’s a bit less clear why Fingscheidt feels the need to change the protagonist’s name to an anagram of her own, while her decision to punch up the melodrama of the story by giving Rona a falling-offthe-wagon episode that never happened dampens the sense that her recovery is

connected to reconnecting with her origins. Still, Ronan plays both the externally chaotic and internally struggling versions of Rona with her usual dynamism, and Fingscheidt beautifully incorporates the geography and meteorology of the Orkneys into an affecting character study, even if it’s one where I wished we got more of the actual character who inspired it. Available Oct. 4 in theaters. (R)

SPECIAL SCREENINGS

Utah Queer Film Festival: The Utah Film Center’s annual LGBTQ-themed film showcase previously known as Damn These Heels has gotten a re-brand for 2024, and a new programming director in regular City Weekly contributor and award-winning local photographer Cat Palmer. The program consists of 13 inperson features, short-film programs and several online-exclusive screenings. Kick things off on opening night with the documentary This Is Not a Disco, and enjoy work like the Sundance-presented Indigo Girls documentary It’s Only Life After All with a Q&A featuring director Alexandria

Bombach. Individual screenings are $15, with festival passes starting at $60. Visit utahqueerfilmfestival.org to purchase tickets and for a full schedule.

Halloween-themed events @ Peery’s Egyptian Theater: Ogden’s venerable venue welcomes the scary season with a couple of Halloween-appropriate events. On Oct. 25 – 26, Peery’s presents The Rocky Horror Picture Show at 7:20 p.m. nightly, with an optional pre-film party and costume contest. Then on Oct. 30, Onstage Ogden presents a live-to-film screening of Murnau’s Nosferatu, accompanied by Cameron Carpenter presenting his original film score on the Wurlitzer organ. Visit ogdenpet.com for tickets and info for Rocky Horror, and onstageogden. org for Nosferatu.

Tower of Terror continues: Salt Lake Film Society’s weekend showcases of horror classics were featured in last month’s calendar, which you can find at cityweekly.net. Visit slfs.org for remaining features, including The Rocky Horror Picture Show. CW

SALT LAKE COUNTY’S CANDIDATES FOR MAYOR, COUNCIL AND STATE SCHOOL BOARD MAKE THEIR CASE TO VOTERS.

BY BENJAMIN WOOD | BWOOD@CITYWEEKLY.NET

Another election is rapidly approaching and hoo boy, what a year this is. At the state level, Republican infighting has added a modicum of mystery to the typically pre-ordained gubernatorial contest and while it’s still Spencer Cox’s race to lose, the Republican incumbent is fighting a war on two fronts with Democrat Brian King to his left and a never-say-die Phil Lyman mounting a write-in spoiler campaign from the far, far right.

Utah voters will see several proposed constitutional amendments on their ballots, although at least one of them (Amendment D) has been ruled preemptively void by the state Supreme Court due to the Legislature’s ham-fisted sloppiness placing it on the ballot, and with ongoing litigation challenging another (Amendment A).

Of course, the 2024 ballot is topped by a nail-biter race between the sitting vice president, Kamala Harris, and former president Donald Trump, who was impeached twice while in office and later found liable for sexual assault and guilty of defamation and fraud—with various other charges pending.

Oh yeah, and the last time Trump lost an election, he rebuffed the peaceful transfer of power and engaged in a baseless pressure campaign to overturn the results while a mob of his supporters attacked the U.S. Capitol.

With so much attention spent on the above contests, City Weekly opted to focus on Salt Lake County’s mayoral, Council and state school board races. Candidates were asked to introduce themselves, summarize their top priority and select from a list of questions on transportation, housing, water and public safety (for county mayor and Council) or book banning, teacher retention, vouchers and campus safety (for school board).

All candidates were also asked to name their favorite restaurant in Salt Lake County and, somewhat controversially, to disclose their presidential vote. While not directly relevant to these offices, this question was intended as a succinct way to gauge the candidates’ relative tolerance for the anti-democratic subversion of American political norms and traditions.

Several left those questions blank—as is their prerogative—while at least one, Republican county mayor candidate Erin Rider, specifically cited the presidential prompt as a reason for snubbing City Weekly’s questionnaire. Council candidate Rachelle Morris and school board candidate Will Shiflett also declined City Weekly’s invitation to participate, though we can only speculate on their motivations for doing so.

SALT LAKE COUNTY

Name: Jenny Wilson (D)

City: SLC-Federal Heights

Restaurant:

Mumbai House

Presidential vote: Kamala Harris

Campaign website: wilsonformayor.com

I’m a common-sense public servant who wakes up every day laser-focused on the issues that matter most to Salt Lake County families—lowering their cost of living, improving their quality of life, protecting our water supply and making our communities safer. I don’t get distracted by culture wars or political extremism.

My five-year Human Services, Homeless, and Criminal Justice Reform Action Plan is transforming the way we address addiction, homelessness and mental health care in Salt Lake County—holistically and at its roots—breaking an expensive, inefficient and ineffective cycle. I am determined to see it through and not pushed aside.

Making our communities safer by breaking the cycle of criminal recidivism is one of the central threads in my homelessness and criminal justice plan. Maintaining our high quality of life also means continuing my strategy of major investments in parks, rec centers and senior centers.

Name: Erin Rider (R)

City: Did not answer Restaurant: Did not answer Presidential vote: Declined to answer Campaign website: erinrider.com

SALT LAKE COUNTY

COUNCIL AT-LARGE C

Name: Natalie Pinkney (D)

City: South Salt Lake Restaurant:

Afghan Kitchen Presidential vote: Kamala Harris Campaign website: ElectNatalie.com

As a two-term member of the South Salt Lake City Council, I am the best candidate because I have spent my career championing neighborhoods and empowering families, focusing on all families. My experience in government demonstrates my commitment to leading our community with proven results.

We need to ensure we focus on supporting families rather than problems that don’t exist. My election will prioritize empowering families, which will make better use of taxpayers’ hard-earned money and build a more united future by avoiding policies that divide and distract.

Smart growth is crucial for increasing housing supply. We need options like starter homes, multi-families, condos and apartments, all catering to families and future homeowners while respecting our neighborhoods’ character. High-density housing should align with transit hubs, while single-family homes should remain in designated zones to maintain community integrity.

Name: Rachelle Morris (R)

City: Did not answer

Restaurant: Did not answer

Presidential vote: Did not answer Campaign website: voterachellemorris.com

SALT LAKE COUNTY COUNCIL 2

Name: Carlos Moreno (R)

City: West Jordan

Restaurant: A lo Maracucho Inc and Spitz

Presidential vote: Donald Trump Campaign website: carlosmoreno4utah.com

Carlos Moreno, a Venezuelan immigrant and recent U.S. citizen as of October 2022, is running for Salt Lake County Council in District 2. After fleeing political persecution due to his human rights activism in Venezuela, Carlos was charged with treason and conspiracy by the Venezuelan government, ultimately gaining asylum in the United States.

Now, as a father, husband and successful business owner, Carlos is determined to advocate for west side communities. His platform focuses on fiscal discipline, responsible taxation in county government, promoting civic education and expanding opportunities for youth.

Carlos also stands firmly in support of law enforcement, aiming to foster safer, more connected communities. His unique journey equipped him with the resilience, dedication and vision needed to bring positive change to Salt Lake County, and he’s ready to be a strong voice for District 2.

Name: Katie Olson (D)

City: South Jordan Restaurant: Oh Mai

Presidential vote: Kamala Harris Campaign website: votekatieolson.com

Professionally, I’m a government waste reducer and the local Leslie Knope. I know how to align a budget with resident priorities, and I’m pretty handy with data. With truth and compassion, I will bring a steady balance to the council, rejecting the partisan, extremist politics that have plagued this seat.

Everyone loves to complain about government efficiency. But I’m actually trained in doing something about it. I’m the nerdy person the county needs to take a high-level, strategic look at what services the county should provide (and pay for) as the region grows. I’m not afraid to stop doing it the way we’ve always done it.

E-bikes are everywhere! But safe biking routes are nowhere. The county should prioritize bus rapid transit and off-road biking and walking paths before west side growth gobbles up these opportunities. Let’s not worship cars as the top priority or bank on a billion-dollar gondola. Keep it boring with buses and bikes.

SALT LAKE COUNTY COUNCIL 4

Name: Ross Romero (D)

City: SLC-Sugar House

Restaurant: Tsunami Presidential vote: Kamala Harris Campaign website: rossfordistrict4.com

Currently, I consult with Utah businesses on workforce issues, largely focusing on Utah’s diverse communities. I have also practiced law and was in banking. I served in the Utah House and Senate for eight years and retired as the Senate Democratic Leader. I believe my diverse background and experience in government will lend to serving on the Salt Lake County Council in District 4. We need to urgently work on climate change and affordable housing issues. I will be a strong advocate for these issues. Having served in the Utah Legislature, I have relationships that will be helpful in advocating for these and other issues important to Salt Lake County.

I support ensuring that we have adequate public safety officers so response times are shortened. I also support increased lighting in certain areas, which are too dark for safety reasons. We also should enhance efforts for Night Out Against Crime. Finally, we need to have more resources for those needing mental and general health services.

Name: Nolan Kruse (Utah Forward)

City: SLC-Sugar House

Restaurant: Mazza Presidential vote: Did not answer Campaign website: nolanfordistrict4.com

I’m Nolan Kruse, a University of Utah graduate and local small business owner. With an openminded, moderate viewpoint, I’m committed to making the best decisions for Salt Lake County. I understand our local economy deeply and will advocate for small businesses, fostering growth, opportunity and sustainability in our community.

I’ll implement a zoning plan that limits high-density projects to specific areas while promoting mixed-use developments. This approach reduces congestion and preserves Salt Lake County’s unique character, balancing responsible growth with community needs to ensure development benefits everyone without overwhelming our infrastructure.

To protect the Great Salt Lake and our county’s water supply, I will propose legislation to enforce stricter water conservation measures for agricultural and industrial users, and fund projects that restore wetland habitats around the lake. Additionally, I’ll support incentives for businesses and residents to reduce water usage and pollution.

Name: Roger A.

Livingston (R)

City: Millcreek

Restaurant: Rio Grande Cafe

Presidential vote: Donald Trump Campaign website: None

As a former two-term state legislator, retired District Court judge, former Utah State risk manager and division director, General Counsel to Sen. Orrin Hatch and Colonel (Retired) in the U.S. Army, I will bring extensive experience and effective, proven leadership to the County Council.

We need more civility and less toxic environments in politics and public service. Candid, but respectful, discussion creates a unified, less divided community. I established the Roger Livingston Civility in Politics Scholarship at the University of Utah. Better, smarter policy and effective government result from a less-divided and more-unified citizenry.

Housing availability and affordability are important, challenging issues with no single, simple answer. We need multi-faceted approaches including private-public partnerships, increasing the supply of lower- and moderatelypriced housing. Appropriate, well-thought-out tax incentives and better mortgage loans and down payment options are also part of the solution.

SALT LAKE COUNTY COUNCIL 6

Name:

Dea Theadore (R)

City: Sandy Restaurant: Lone Star Taqueria Presidential vote: Did not answer Campaign website: vote4dea.com

I have built relationships across the political spectrum and am actively working on delivering funding and completing projects in support of the cities in my district. I am running for reelection to finish the job and continue my work as a trusted advocate for every member of our communities.

I am working toward delivering a new county Search and Rescue building in my district and have built collaborative relationships with law enforcement and local elected officials to ensure its completion. My experience and subjectmatter expertise will allow us to finish the job faster and more efficiently.

My work on the new Search and Rescue building will deliver significant county investment into our district and will allow tourists and long-term residents alike to have access to the superb services of our Salt Lake County Search and Rescue team.

Name: Zach Robinson (D)

City: Sandy Restaurant: Slackwater Presidential vote: Kamala Harris Campaign website: votezachrobinson.com

I’m a dedicated public servant with extensive experience in public safety, focused on empowering communities and promoting fair policies.

My government background and strong commitment to transparency make me the best candidate to represent District 6 constituents and advocate for their needs with integrity and accountability.

Improving canyon transportation is a top priority. I’ll focus on public transit solutions to ease congestion and promote eco-friendly options. With my local government experience, I’ll effectively address these issues, ensuring practical, sustainable solutions are implemented for the benefit of all residents and the environment.

I’m committed to safeguarding the Great Salt Lake and county water supply by enforcing stricter conservation measures, supporting sustainable land use practices, and investing in innovative management technologies. My goal is to preserve these vital resources through effective policies and community engagement for long-term environmental health.

UTAH BOARD OF EDUCATION 6

Name: Diane Livingston (Unaffiliated)

City: Park City Restaurant: Maria’s Mexican Grill

Presidential vote: Did not answer Campaign website: dianeforkids.com

My husband and I raised six children in Park City public schools; now our grandchildren attend public schools here. I am a former teacher, current substitute teacher and historian, and I led for 30 years in the nonprofit space. I bring intelligence, focus and an energetic attitude, ready to serve.

Having completed an extensive listening tour with District 6 parents, teachers, principals, superintendents and community members, I’ve discovered a massive communication gap with the state school board. I will be in and with the schools consistently, seeking local input—my representation will be driven by specific local needs.

We are not graduating enough new teachers; meanwhile, burnout is increasing. Teachers need greater support and resources. Classroom behavior, feeling under-appreciated and compensation are huge concerns. Providing more mental health professionals and paraprofessionals, celebrating great teachers and staff, and respecting their service with higher pay would improve recruitment and retention.

UTAH BOARD OF EDUCATION 6

Name: Carol Barlow Lear (D)

City: SLC-University Restaurant: Taco Bell Presidential vote: Kamala Harris Campaign website: votecarolblear.com

My name is Carol Lear. I am running for the state school board in District 6. I have actively participated in most roles of public education: parent, high school teacher, policymaker, education attorney and now USBE board member. I understand public education and am committed to improving it.

Utah needs to work on teacher retention. As a former teacher, I understand what causes teachers to leave the profession. I have some specific ideas, including grants for schools to provide on-site daycare for employees, and additional ideas to improve teacher job satisfaction. I am especially committed to opposing legislative overreach into our classrooms.

I believe it is unconstitutional for the state’s public education funds to pay for private schools and homeschooling. Private schools do not make education available to all interested students. Not only can their tuition costs exceed any voucher (and continue to increase without warning to families), but they can discriminate against students/families based on religion, mental health issues, family wealth and other characteristics.

UTAH BOARD OF EDUCATION 7

Name: Molly Hart (R) City: Sandy Restaurant:

Did not answer Presidential vote: Did not answer Campaign website: mollyhart.com

I am the current vicechairperson of the state school board and chair of its Audit Committee. I have deep educational experience and am currently the executive director of a group of public charter schools. I have 25-plus years of experience (substitute teacher, paraprofessional, teacher, assistant principal, principal and executive director) in multiple states, from elementary to university. Teachers’ and administrators’ work needs to be simplified, with better systems for efficient information sharing. They should be able to spend more of their time with students, teachers and parents. I have deep knowledge of school systems, so I understand where and how improvements should be made.

An overreliance on “hardening” schools against threats provides a diminishing return on investment and is counter to helping the students be and feel safe. Focusing on school discipline systems, school absenteeism, literacy, preventing student anonymity and parent communication also prevents safety issues while improving the school environment. A balanced approach is necessary.

Name:

John Arthur (D)

City: Holladay

Restaurant:

Tiburon Fine Dining

Presidential vote:

Kamala Harris

Campaign website: votejohnarthur.com

I am Utah’s 2021 Teacher of the Year and a national Teacher of the Year finalist. When I was a kid, public education saved my life; now, I’ve dedicated my professional life to keeping it strong. I’m excited to bring my experience and expertise to our state Board of Education.

Too many of our children feel unsafe and unwelcome in our schools because of laws passed by the state Legislature. On our state school board, I will pass rules and policies that are responsive to the needs, dignity and rights of all public school students.

For years, I have shined a spotlight on our incredible educators, elevating the excellence that Utah’s teachers and school staff exemplify. When the public consistently sees our educators for the wonders they are, more will join us— that, and immediately increasing salaries and improving working conditions, too, of course.

UTAH BOARD OF EDUCATION 9

Name: Amanda Bollinger (R)

City: Herriman

Restaurant:

Did not answer

Presidential vote: Did not answer Campaign website: amandabbollinger.com

I am a dynamic educational professional with extensive experience in parenting, coaching, teaching and school leadership. I am the best candidate because I have the experience, knowledge and skills needed to effectively bridge gaps between parents, teachers, schools and policymakers as a member of the Utah State Board of Education.

Laws and policies often have unintended consequences. My election will expedite addressing these issues by identifying and rectifying them, ensuring policies achieve their goals efficiently. With my experience, I can highlight these

problems and implement solutions, reducing waste and improving outcomes for all stakeholders.

I firmly believe that teachers are the cornerstone of student success in schools. To recruit and retain exceptional educators and staff, we must prioritize professional development, ensure all staff feel valued and implement stressreduction strategies, ensuring an empowering and thriving educational environment.

Name: Will Shiflett (D) City: Did not answer

Restaurant: Did not answer

Presidential vote: Did not answer Campaign website: None

UTAH BOARD OF EDUCATION 10

Name: Deborah Gatrell (D) City: West Valley City

Restaurant: El Habanero

Presidential vote: Kamala Harris

Campaign website: vote4deborah.com

I DECLINE TO TALK ABOUT RUNNING FOR A PUBLIC OFFICE

I’m a Board Certified public school teacher (15 years) and a veteran (25 years) who flies Blackhawks for the National Guard. I know what is actually happening in classrooms and bring that perspective to school policy discussions. I’m also a collaborative problem-solver with the leadership skills to get things done!

We must strengthen school-community partnerships, especially around safety. One of my students was shot and killed during a 2021 lunchtime fight, so it’s personal. We also need to better connect schools to skilled trades so stu-

dents not interested in the “college track” won’t drop out. It’s a real need.

Statewide restrictions on school library books violate the principle of local control and violate the rights of parents, who can already restrict what their children read in local schools. Banning books is dangerous and never ends well. Conversations about ageappropriate and school-appropriate materials should be handled through local policy, not state law.

Name: Matt Hymas (R)

City: Stansbury Park

Restaurant: El Paisa Grill

Presidential vote: Donald Trump Campaign website: votehymas.com

I am a charter school administrator who specializes in classical education. Throughout my career I have learned to work with and listen to my community. I want to hear your experiences and your perspective so that together we can provide the best possible educational experience for your children and grandchildren.

If elected, I will focus on the prioritization of academics. All that the Utah State Board of Education does should fall under the umbrella of academic achievement. We primarily send our children to school to learn to read, write and do arithmetic. This has always been my focus and should be the focus of every school in the state.

On statewide library book restrictions, filth is filth. It should not be in any school library regardless of the location. If books do not comply with the law in one county, they will not comply in another. CW

Bangin’ Bangers

The

Bruce Scottish

Pub reinvents old world pub fare.

BY ALEX SPRINGER comments@cityweekly.net @captainspringer

Idon’t know much about my Scottish ancestry. I think my ancestors were part of a Maxwell clan, and once or twice I found that clan’s coat of arms at a local Scottish festival, but that’s about it.

Contextually, I do know that Scottish cuisine isn’t traditionally seen as an example of culinary excellence—it’s the kind of stuff that was designed to fill the belly without paying much attention to the edification of one’s soul. That said, I was intrigued when The Bruce Scottish Pub opened its doors in the Gateway Shopping Center. Now that I am a drinking man, maybe revisiting some Scottish classics with a pint or two under my belt will reveal some further insights.

One thing that I immediately appreciate about The Bruce is that it is a tribute to owner Tali Bruce’s late husband William Ray Bruce. Not only was he an influential restaurateur on the Utah scene, but he was a descendent of Scottish king Robert the Bruce, who famously fought against English oppression in the 1300s. The Bruce Pub is both a memorial to Bruce’s career as a local restaurateur and his Scottish heritage, which admittedly is a pretty baller legacy to leave behind for Salt Lake diners.

At first perusal of The Bruce’s menu, it’s clear that Chef Trevor Brown has the right culinary eye for tackling Scot-

tish cuisine. Once you remember that old world classics like cottage pie and sausage rolls have an excellent foundation for awesomeness, it’s not too hard to fall in love with The Bruce’s take on Scottish food—before you ask, there is no haggis on the menu. There are some things that should be lost to the corridors of history.

As The Bruce is first and foremost a pub, taking a spin around the drink menu is a great way to start. I like the inclusion of mixed shots—the Vegas Bomb ($9) is a potent mix of whiskey, rum and Red Bull. Their beer prices aren’t too bad—a pitcher of Cutthroat Pale Ale will set you back $11.

With a few drinks at the ready, it was time for my dining buddy and me to order. We split an order of scotch eggs ($10), I went with the bangers and mash ($15) and he tried the steak and ale pie ($17). Of course, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the presence of tattie drottle soup ($6) that can be ordered with a cullen skink ($2)—IYKYK.

The scotch egg arrived sliced in half for ease of shareability, and it’s got two dipping sauces. One is a gorgeous stone ground mustard, the other is a savory brown gravy. The egg itself is dynamite— it’s hard-boiled yolk adds some richness to its cloak of pork sausage and crispy panko breading. Much like a sausage dish, if a menu has any sort of hard-boiled egg dish I am going to order it. I’ve had plenty of scotch eggs in my day, and this was one of my favorite preparations.

My friend and I noticed that the steak and ale pie came with ingredients called neeps and tatties, which prompted us to ask the server what we were getting ourselves into. As it turns out, “tatties” is a Scottish term for potatoes, and “neeps” is a colloquialism for turnips—so nothing

we wouldn’t want in a nice savory pie. While I am more of a chicken pot pie fan, I have to say that the richly layered ale and veal gravy found in this pie is fantastic. Combined with the beef short rib and all those well-cooked root veggies, the steak and ale pie is something that will stick to your bones when the temperature starts dropping. Sure, it’s the kind of meat pie that just has a square of puff pastry on top of a stew instead of being fully baked into a crust, but it’s tasty all the same.

The bangers and mash were also decently hearty. These bangers are made from veal and pork, which imparts a grayish color to the bangers—honestly not the most appetizing of colors, but it’s a small gripe because they tasted lovely. The casing provides a nice snap to these bangers when you slice into them, but that ground veal and pork mixture is almost buttery.

I am always expecting the texture of sausages to fight back with me a bit, but these bangers are happy to just melt in your mouth. They’re served with plenty of mashed red potatoes, green peas and grilled onions, all of which make for a truly comforting dish of food.

As The Gateway has continued its evolutionary glow-up, it’s nice to see these locally-owned nightspots making names for themselves. With a movie theater and a comedy club on the same premises, cool gastropubs like The Bruce are only going to enrich the surrounding nightlife. CW

Bangers and mash

ON TAP

A list of what local craft breweries and cider houses have on tap this week

2 Row Brewing

73 West 7200 South, Midvale 2RowBrewing.com

On Tap: Lollygaggin’ Farmhouse Ale

Avenues Proper

376 8th Ave, SLC avenuesproper.com

On Tap: I am the VVitch Seasonal Golden Ale with Pumpkin and Spices

Bewilder Brewing

445 S. 400 West, SLC BewilderBrewing.com

On Tap:  Cerveza De Mayo for Bewilder.

Bohemian Brewery

94 E. Fort Union Blvd, Midvale BohemianBrewery.com

On Tap: California Steam Lager, American Heritage Lager NEW: Oktoberfest Märzenbier

Bonneville Brewery

1641 N. Main, Tooele BonnevilleBrewery.com

On Tap: Peaches and Cream Ale

Chappell Brewing

2285 S Main Street Salt Lake City, UT 84115 chappell.beer

On Tap: HARVEST - Wet Hop Amber

Craft by Proper

1053 E. 2100 So., SLC properbrewingco.com

On Tap: I am the VVitch Seasonal Golden Ale with Pumpkin and Spices

Desert Edge Brewery

273 Trolley Square, SLC DesertEdgeBrewery.com

On Tap:  Ay Curuba! Curuba Sour

Epic Brewing Co.

825 S. State, SLC EpicBrewing.com

On Tap: Hip Check Ice, an Imperial Lager (available Oct. 4)

Etta Place Cidery

700 W Main St, Torrey www.ettaplacecider.com

On Tap: All-American Blend Cider, Lemon-Lime-Grapefruit Session Mead

Fisher Brewing Co.

320 W. 800 South, SLC FisherBeer.com

On Tap: A rotation of up to 17 Fresh Beers!

Grid City Beer Works

333 W. 2100 South, SLC GridCityBeerWorks.com

On Tap: Cask Nitro CO2

Helper Beer

159 N Main Street, Helper, UT  helperbeer.com

Hopkins Brewing Co.

1048 E. 2100 South, SLC HopkinsBrewingCompany.com

On Tap: Tall Timber - Northwest Session IPA

Kiitos Brewing

608 W. 700 South, SLC KiitosBrewing.com

On Tap: Cheeky (English Pub Ale); Hooda (Honey Ale)

Level Crossing Brewing Co. 2496 S. West Temple, South Salt Lake

LevelCrossingBrewing.com

On Tap: Vienna-Style Lager

Follow us on Instagram: @ levelcrossingbrewing

Level Crossing Brewing Co., POST

550 South 300 West, Suite 100, SLC LevelCrossingBrewing.com

On Tap: Bat Country Blonde Ale FREE yoga every other Saturday. 10:15am

Moab Brewing 686 S. Main, Moab TheMoabBrewery.com

On Tap:  Arnie (Co-Lab with 2 Row brewing): cream ale base with Lychee black tea and fresh pasteurized lemon juice.

Mountain West Cider 425 N. 400 West, SLC MountainWestCider.com

On Tap: Barrel-aged Kentucky Mule hard cider

Offset Bier Co 1755 Bonanza Dr Unit C, Park City offsetbier.com/ On Tap: DOPO IPA

Ogden Beer Company 358 Park Blvd, Ogden OgdenBeerCompany.com

On Tap: 11 rotating taps as well as high point cans and guest beers

Park City Brewery 1764 Uinta Way C1 ParkCityBrewing.com

On Tap: GNAR Juice - 5.0% Hard Seltzer, infused with electrolytes from Gnarly Nutrition

Policy Kings Brewery 223 N. 100 West, Cedar City PolicyKingsBrewery.com

Prodigy Brewing

25 W Center St. Logan Prodigy-brewing.com

On Tap: 302 Czech Pilsner

Proper Brewing/Proper Burger 857 So. Main & 865 So. Main properbrewingco.com

On Tap: I am the VVitch Seasonal Golden Ale with Pumpkin and Spices

A list of what local craft breweries and cider houses have on tap this week

Proper Brewing Moab 1393 US-191, Moab properbrewingco.com

On Tap: I am the VVitch Seasonal Golden Ale with Pumpkin and Spices

Red Rock Brewing 254 So. 200 West RedRockBrewing.com

On Tap: Gypsy Scratch

Red Rock Fashion Place 6227 So. State Redrockbrewing.com

On Tap: Munich Dunkel

Red Rock Kimball Junction 1640 Redstone Center Redrockbrewing.com

On Tap: Bamberg Rauch Bier

RoHa Brewing Project 30 Kensington Ave, SLC RoHaBrewing.com

On Tap: Brewers Select: Miso’s Soup Baltic Porter

Roosters Brewing Multiple Locations RoostersBrewingCo.com On Tap: Roosters Ogtoberfest

SaltFire Brewing 2199 S. West Temple, South Salt Lake SaltFireBrewing.com

On Tap: Lupulin Dew - Wet Hop Pale Ale

Salt Flats Brewing 2020 Industrial Circle, SLC SaltFlatsBeer.com On Tap: Prickly Pear Kolsch

Scion Cider Bar 916 Jefferson St W, SLC Scionciderbar.com On Tap: Scion Provençal 6% ABV

Second Summit Cider 4010 So. Main, Millcreek https://secondsummitcider. com

On Tap: Spiced Peach

Shades Brewing 154 W. Utopia Ave, South Salt Lake ShadesBrewing.beer On Tap: Slushies; Harvey Wallbanger Sour Ale

Shades On State 366 S. State Street SLC Shadesonstate.com On Tap: Salud Mexican Lager; Spring Fever Grapefruit Radler

Silver Reef 4391 S. Enterprise Drive, St. George SGBev.com

Squatters Pub Brewery / Salt Lake Brewing Co.

147 W. Broadway, SLC saltlakebrewingco.com/ squatters

On Tap: Salt Lake Brewing Co. – Snakebite IPA Squatters and Wasatch Brewery 1763 So 300 West SLC UT 84115 Utahbeers.com

On Tap: Lord of Bavaria Marzen Small Batch Series Release: Polyandry Pilsner

Strap Tank Brewery, Lehi 3661 Outlet Pkwy, Lehi, UT StrapTankBrewery.com On Tap: “The Sundering” (Passionfruit/Guava Juicy Pale); “Stay Gold” (English Golden)

Strap Tank Brewery, Springville

596 S 1750 W, Springville, UT StrapTankBrewery.com

On Tap: The Gambler (Mango Kolsch); Caught in the Rain (Pineapple Sour)

TF Brewing

936 S. 300 West,

BEER NERD

Flavors of Europe

Two beers with the subtle tastes of Germany and England.

BY MIKE RIEDEL comments@cityweekly.net @utahbeer

Bewilder - Du Hops Mich: For Bewilder Brewing’s Oktoberfest celebration, the boys in the brewhouse felt that it would be helpful to provide an IPA for those who may not be entirely geeked over all of the traditional lager beers that were brewed for the celebration. However, to keep with the German theme the brewers decided to use only German malt and hops, making this a true German IPA. Du Hops Mich (named for the Rammstein song “Du Hast”) was made with pilsner malt and features Callista, Arianna and Huell Melon hops. It pours a bright amber orange with a moderate amount of bubbles and a big two-finger, off-white head, which settles into a thin creamy layer. A floral, spicy and bready aroma with a scent of earthy hops create a pretty solid balance. Like it smells, the taste is floral and citrusy, with a bready, balanced taste of earthy hops and pilsner malt. The floral and earthy presence of noble hops brings notes of peach, berries and grass. Some added citrus fruit notes of lemon zest and orange re-emerge toward the end, with notes of biscuit, grains, cracker, and caramel along with German Kölsch yeast. A pretty nice, balanced taste— medium bodied with a moderate amount of carbonation. Crisp and pretty smooth.

Verdict: This German-themed IPA has a real nice balance to it—there is nothing overpowering about this brew. It is really hard to pick up on the 7.1 percent ABV of this beer—it is just that smooth. The mouth feel is bold, hoppy, rich, clean and refreshing.

Salt Lake Brewing - London Fog: This new ale from head brewer Jason Stock

is a take on the classic tea beverage, the London Fog. It is typically a hot or iced beverage featuring Earl Grey tea, vanilla, honey and milk. Stock decided to go with a cream ale base and Earl Grey, offering it up on their nitrogen tap handle. It pours clear golden-yellow, capped off by two fingers of foamy white head that lasts forever due to the nitrogen. The aroma is a fair bit more interesting—black tea leaves, vanilla and floral notes come through, alongside hints of grainy sweetness and orange.

Hints of bergamot oil and black tea are apparent at the forefront, preceding the sweeter flavors of grainy pale malts and oatmeal that follow; notes of vanilla, orange, orchard fruit begin to develop by mid-sip. More black tea and cream malt come out in the finish, with an herbal, earthy note and subtle implied sweetness due to the lack of carbon dioxide. This beer is medium in body, with moderate carbonation levels that prickle the palate continuously; it feels frothy and satisfying in the mouth, but I don’t think it’s the sort of beer I’d want to drink one after another.

Verdict: Salt Lake Brewing Company’s London Fog was neither too sweet nor was it too bitter. Fans of the Earl Grey blend will certainly enjoy this faithfully beer-ified equivalent. I’ve actually had a few pints of this over the last few days and in each case I polished them off rather quickly, which I’d say qualifies as positive feedback. Worth trying if it doesn’t disappear before you can get to it. A unique ale, and a beer I’ll be returning to in the future.

As I mentioned above, this beer is only on the nitro tap at Salt Lake Brewing. Nitrogen beers cannot be growlered (filled into customers’ pitchers, pails or bottles) or crowlered (canned) and can only be enjoyed in-house. Bewilder Brewing’s Du Hops Mich is available in 16 ounce cans and can be enjoyed at Bewilder or purchased to go. Both are in limited production.

As always, cheers. CW

the BACK BURNER

BY ALEX SPRINGER | @captainspringer

The Local Eatery & Bar Closes

Though it’s only had one year under its belt, The Local (310 E. 400 South) recently announced a temporary closure via social media. In early 2023, The Local brought the food hall concept to the Library Square neighborhood and it had plenty of decent restaurants to choose from. I also liked the way the whole space was designed. According to their Instagram post announcing the closure, the management team is “transitioning the concept.” The post also mentioned that it would still be open for private events, so we’ll have to keep an eye on this spot to see what becomes of it.

Park City Wine Festival

The Park City Wine Festival kicks off on October 3 and lasts until October 5. This year’s festival will host more than 80 wineries and features a modular programming schedule that lets attendees build a schedule according to their taste. In addition to plenty of wine samplings and workshops, the festival will feature plenty of wine pairings for lunch and dinner. The festival will also be hosting beer and spirit vendors, so all of your alcoholic beverage bases will be fully covered. Those who like to blend their appreciation of wine with their appreciation of the outdoors will dig the various hikes and lunches available. Check it all out at parkcitywinefest.com.

Reservations Open for Witches Tea at the Grand

The traditional high tea experience held at The Grand America (555 S. Main Street) will take on a more spooky vibe come October, and reservations are now open. The Witches Tea at the Grand puts a gothic spin on The Grand America’s popular tea party, promising plenty of macabre decor and Halloween-themed menus. On top of it all, attendees are encouraged to don their most witchy of outfits. Events will take place throughout October from 12 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. and guests of all ages are welcome. Reservations can be made by visiting grandamerica.com/witches-teaat-the-grand.

Quote of the Week: “Wouldst thou like to live deliciously?” –Black Phillip, The Witch (2015)

Music Mailbag

Oct

‘24

New releases from Cardinal Bloom, Frick. and OrcaMind

BY EMILEE ATKINSON eatkinson@cityweekly.net @emileelovesvinyl

We’re saying goodbye to summer, but that doesn’t mean saying goodbye to new releases from our favorite local artists. There have been many noteworthy releases as we head into the fall months, and there’s sure to be plenty more as we march into the end of the year, but here are some of note that you should check out right now.

Cardinal Bloom, The Only Place I’ve Ever Known: Cardinal Bloom have been releasing easy-to-love indie tunes since 2019, but since then they haven’t released a full-length album. That’s what made September so great for the band—they finally did. The Only Place I’ve Ever Known is a project the group has been working on for some time now, and it’s amazing to hear what they’ve been cooking up. It includes tracks like “So Sweet” and “12:30” that were released ahead of the full album, and served as an excellent precursor for the rest. The song “12:30” is “about tapping into your younger self and wanting to understand if they would love the person you are today and the choices you made,” Cardinal Bloom said on Instagram, “almost more a self reflection on if you’ve been living out those dreams you’ve had as a kid.” The rest of the album contains more of the same types of themes—growing up, feeling nostalgic and looking to the future.

“We’ve decided to name the album The Only Place I’ve Ever Known relating to where we’ve come from and our upbringing throughout life,” Cardinal Bloom said when they announced the album in August. “We really put our heart and soul into each one of these tracks and feel as though it really represents who we are as a band and where we want to go with our music. This is a moment for the 4 of us that we will never forget. We reflect on these past few years and having this dream of releasing an album ever since we were kids. This is only possible because of our community and those of you who have supported us through everything. We see you, and this album is for all of you as much as it is for us.” The Only Place I’ve Ever Known is streaming everywhere now.

Frick., blows.: “No one asked for this,” lofi/ pop/punk band Frick said about their newest project, blows. “Brad [Rhoades] has been working behind the scenes making video game versions of a bunch of Frick songs, just for funsies.” If you’re a fan of old-school gaming, this album will have a wave of nostalgia crashing over you as soon as you hit play. It feels like you’re a little kid again, staying up playing on your SNES with friends, or powering through hard levels on your own after school. Each track has that delicious 8- or 16-bit sound that instantly takes you back in time and is so well done, you could truly place them in any SNES game and you probably wouldn’t question it. Because these are video game versions of the band’s already existing tracks, it’s fun to listen to them back to back and compare the electronic versions to the punk ones. This type of music may not be for everyone though, so if you’re not into the retro video game sound, Frick’s catalog is excellent and worth going through if you love punk/grunge vibes. Blows is streaming everywhere now, and if you’re a cassette

MUSIC

OrcaMind, “Good Enough”: Putting the words “good” and “enough” together creates a pretty loaded phrase, despite it only being two words. Many things can come to mind when these two silly words are put together, and more often than not, it’s feelings of inadequacy and doubt. On OrcaMind’s new single “Good Enough” they delve into these strong emotions and themes. “[It’s about] having very particular standards from others and yourself, rumination, mind never stopping, but trying to embrace that part of yourself as well,” they write on their BandCamp page. “Rumination prevents us from having mental clarity and/or following through. The end of the song’s lyrics ‘not finishing’ is sticking it to that concept and doing it anyway, in spite of doubt.” “I never rest, or sleep /

‘til I double check, it gets scary / then I’ll dig it up / again and again,” vocalist Michelle Heafy sings. OrcaMind tends to have a very floaty, ethereal sound to their music, and that’s present in “Good Enough.” Their music always feels like floating on the surface of water, slowly swaying from side to side as you drift further out— it’s comforting and cathartic. They continue on BandCamp saying the track focuses on the “inner struggle of taking things very seriously. You’re uncomfortable but you also have trouble speaking up for yourself when others cross your boundaries, frustrations with people-pleasing. Being sensitive to these things going on around you, overstimulated.” “Good Enough” is streaming everywhere now.

Those are just a few of the incredible releases that have dropped recently, but it’s far from all of them. Chances are your favorite locals have probably released something new recently, so this is your sign to go check it out. CW

lover, there are copies on Frick’s BandCamp page.

Cardinal Bloom

THURSDAYS

FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS THE BEST HIP HOP IN SLC

SHARK SUNDAYS

POOL TOURNEY HOSTED BY TANNER

MONDAYS

REGGAE MONDAY WITH DJ NAPO

TUESDAYS

WEDNESDAYS KARAOKE

BEST BAR IN UTAH!

GREAT FOOD

MUSIC PICK S

Riot Ten @ Boxpac Project 10/4

Hailing from El Paso, Texas, DJ/producer Riot Ten (Christopher Wilson) will certainly come in with a bang. SLC is a must-see stop on his Feral Tour, which will feature his signature bass-heavy tracks. As a self-taught producer and DJ, he’s been working at his passion since high school and over the past decade and a half, it has certainly paid off. While he’s been touring alongside huge names in electronic music like Yellow Claw, Adventure Club, Steve Aoki, Kayzo and Excision, his biggest track to date is “Rail Breaker” on Aoki’s Dim Mak label in 2017. This single set him at the forefront of bass music and solidified him as the inventor of “hard-trap.” What does hard-trap sound like? Take the slow and heavy bass drums and gritty lyrics of traditional trap music and morph the quick high cymbals into a less melodic and ecstatic flow, creating a sound that is lower, harder and more serious. Wilson’s latest EP Hype or Die: Ballistic is exactly that—very hype and dark! There are no boundaries to music and Wilson’s set will prove that. Hosted at Boxpac Project warehouse (1810 W. Fortune Rd.), the iconic 360-degree stage is sure to bring out all the headbangers. This is a 21+ show brought by Mutiny Music Collective. 9 p.m on Friday, Oct. 4. Tickets are limited and cost $30. Go to seetickets.us. (Arica Roberts)

UPCOMING SHOWS

Fox and Bones

The Jack Moves X Rudy De Anda

Nothin’ Good PIG

Single Mothers Uz Jsme Doma

AND 2 EACH 3 BUTTON KEY FOBS

MUSIC PICK S

The Mother Hips @ The Commonwealth Room 10/4

Across 12 studio albums and five live releases, The Mother Hips have recorded and released music that can be variously described as alternative rock, jam, folk rock, psychedelic, Americana and even power pop. And along the way the Mother Hips have built and cultivated a loyal fan base. The Chico, California, group began in the early ‘90s, gigging around the Bay Area and building a following. The band released their debut, Back to the Grotto in 1993, a time by which the original vinyl era was over, having given way to the CD. Fast forward nearly three decades: in celebration of their 30th anniversary, beginning in 2021, The Mother Hips reissued their entire catalog on the resurgent vinyl format—one album at a time—over the following months. Those records are a varied lot, but the band’s stylistic metamorphoses are a feature, not a bug; a significant part of The Mother Hips’ appeal among its fans is the group’s creatively restless approach to making music. Their most recent studio release, 2023’s When We Disappear continues that eclectic character, folding in elements of Beach Boys-style vocal harmony, rootsy Americana and a jam band mindset applied to pop-length songcraft. Jesse Roper opens this 21+ show at The Commonwealth Room on Friday, Oct. 4 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $48 and up and available from axs.com. (Bill Kopp)

Olivia

Sparkle Horse

Sparkle

Linda Ronstadt

Atmosphere @ The Union 10/5

The relationship between someone’s “authenticity” or their level of sincerity on the inside, and how “real” their art feels, let alone how good it is, is very complex. Minneapolis duo, Ant and Sean Daley (a.k.a. Slug) of Atmosphere are bona fide creators that have an uncanny way of connecting with the audience. “The most important part of any of my songs is probably authenticity, whether or not the listener hears it or feels it. That’s what I’m attempting,” Slug told the High Plains Reader. “And sometimes you want to express an idea that you might not even fully believe yourself, because it’s just a notion or a theory or an idea, but you still want to express it as authentically as possible.” Their latest LP from 2023, So Many Other Realities Exist Simultaneously, is the realest of reality rap. S.M.O.R.E.S. (a delicious acronym) races through 20 songs in just over an hour and begs one to really listen as opposed to background daily life ubiquity. Standout tracks “Bigger

Pictures,” “Talk Talk” and the album’s opener, “Okay,” perfectly set the optimistic tone. Atmosphere is so effortlessly good at what they do and tight as a unit, that you imagine they could quite easily rock an hour-plus set one-handed while playing a game of cards between themselves with the other hand. NOFUN! and Reverie open. Catch these artists on the Traveling Forever tour at The Union on Saturday, Oct. 5. Doors at 6 p.m. Show starts at 7 p.m. Tickets for the all-ages show are $37.50 can be found at ticketmaster.com. (Mark Dago)

Pixel Grip @ The State Room 10/7

The re-rise of electronic music has taken hold of the worldwide music scene in a seemingly unshakeable grip, with discos everywhere bumping and thumping with the sounds of Charli XCX’s Brat and The Dare’s What’s Wrong With New York? on repeat. Yet, seemingly missing in these newfound club classics is what made electronic music so great in the ‘80s when it first raged

onto the scene: a dark, menacing edge. Pixel Grip, a Chicago-based three piece, provides that and then some. Their 2021 album, ARENA , while well received, surely deserved at least half the recognition we’ve seen for 2024 releases in a similar although less nuanced vein (sorry, Charli!). Daring to lean more heavily into more macabre, memento mori themes and keeping lyrics in the shadowy backgrounds of an otherwise bass- or dark melody-heavy song, Pixel Grip is sure to satisfy the October itch to begin rockin’ your bones. See them live on their Stamina Tour at The State Room on Monday, Oct. 7, doors at 7 p.m. Tickets for the 21+ show presented by Diabolical Records can be found at thestateroompresents.com. (Sophie Caligiuri)

Dropkick Murphys @ The Union 10/9

It’s ironic that the Dropkick Murphys are now considered synonymous with Irish insurgency, especially since this particular band actually hails from Boston, a city that’s separated from the Emerald Isles by several thousand miles. That’s not to say Boston is totally distinct from Old Eire. At one point, it was the port of entry for many an expatriate from the old country. Named after Dr. John “Dropkick” Murphy’s alcohol-

detoxification facility, Dropkick Murphys manages to maintain a legitimate geographical bond all on their own. Their connection to Irish tradition is also manifest in the group’s instrumentation, a raucous combination of guitars, fiddles, accordions, mandolins and, naturally enough, plenty of rowdy rhythms. So too, in terms of inspiration and authenticity, they draw on their Celtic roots to shape the songs’ themes, including the religious and political strife that’s plagued the Shamrock Isle for the past 200 years. That, then, brings rebellion to the fore, courtesy of the anger and defiance that’s become an integral part of the band’s determined delivery. So too, they specialize in brash, defiant anthems, all of which have become an essential element in Dropkick Murphys’ signature sound. Like other bands with a similar attitude and approach—The Pogues, Black 47 and Flogging Molly in particular—they affirm the fact that rowdy rock and roll is indeed a universal concept. Needless to say, St. Paddy himself would certainly be proud. Dropkick Murphys with Pennywise and The Scratch perform at The Union on Wednesday, Oct. 9 at 6:30 p.m. Tickets cost $49.50 GA, $149 for VIP. Go to ticketmaster. com. (Lee Zimmerman)

free will ASTROLOGY

BY ROB BREZSNY

ARIES (March 21-April 19)

During some Wiccan rituals, participants are asked, “What binds you? And what will you do to free yourself from what binds you?” I recommend this exercise to you right now, Aries. Here’s a third question: Will you replace your shackles with a weaving that inspires and empowers you? In other words, will you shed what binds you and, in its stead, create a bond that links you to an influence you treasure?

TAURUS (April 20-May 20)

If I had to name the zodiac sign that other signs are most likely to underestimate, I would say Taurus. Why? Well, many of you Bulls are rather modest and humble. You prefer to let your practical actions speak louder than fine words. Your well-grounded strength is diligent and poised, not flashy. People may misread your resilience and dependability as signs of passivity. But here’s the good news, dear Taurus: In the coming weeks, you will be less likely to be undervalued and overlooked. Even those who have been ignorant of your appeal may tune in to the fullness of your tender power and earthy wisdom.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20)

In the coming days, I invite you to work on writing an essay called “People and Things I Never Knew I Liked and Loved Until Now.” To get the project started, visit places that have previously been off your radar. Wander around in uncharted territory, inviting life to surprise you. Call on every trick you know to stimulate your imagination and break out of habitual ruts of thinking. A key practice will be to experiment and improvise as you open your heart and your eyes wide. Here’s my prophecy: In the frontiers, you will encounter unruly delights that inspire you to grow wiser.

CANCER (June 21-July 22)

Now is an excellent time to search for new teachers, mentors and role models. Please cooperate with life’s intention to connect you with people and animals who can inspire your journey for the months and years ahead. A good way to prepare yourself for this onslaught of grace is to contemplate the history of your educational experiences. Who are the heroes, helpers and villains who have taught you crucial lessons? Another strategy to get ready is to think about what’s most vital for you to learn right now. What are the gaps in your understanding that need to be filled?

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22)

The English language has more synonyms than any other language. That’s in part because it’s like a magpie. It steals words from many tongues, including German, French, Old Norse, Latin and Greek, as well as from Algonquin, Chinese, Hindi, Basque and Tagalog. Japanese may be the next most magpie-like language. It borrows from English, Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch, French and German. In accordance with astrological possibilities, I invite you to adopt the spirit of the English and Japanese languages in the coming weeks. Freely borrow and steal influences. Be a collector of sundry inspirations, a scavenger of fun ideas, a gatherer of rich cultural diversity.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Here are my bold decrees: You are entitled to extra bonuses and special privileges in the coming weeks. The biggest piece of every cake and pie should go to you, as should the freshest wonders, the most provocative revelations and the wildest breakthroughs. I invite you to give and take extravagant amounts of everything you regard as sweet, rich and nourishing. I hope you will begin cultivating a skill you are destined to master. I trust you will receive clear and direct answers to at least two nagging questions.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

On those infrequent occasions when I buy a new gadget, I never read the instructions. I drop the booklet in the recycling bin immediately, despite the fact that I may not know all the fine points of using my new vacuum cleaner, air purifier or hairdryer. Research reveals that I am typical.

Ninety-two percent of all instructions get thrown away. I don’t recommend this approach to you in the coming weeks, however, whether you’re dealing with gadgets or more intangible things. You really should call on guidance to help you navigate your way through introductory phases and new experiences.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

I knew a Scorpio performance artist who did a splashy public show about private matters. She stationed herself on the rooftop of an apartment building and for 12 hours loudly described everything she felt guilty about. (She was an ex-Catholic who had been raised to regard some behaviors as sinful.) If you, dear Scorpio, have ever felt an urge to engage in a purge of remorse, now would be an excellent time. I suggest an alternate approach, though. Spend a half hour writing your regrets on paper, then burn the paper in the kitchen sink as you chant something like the following: “With love and compassion for myself, I apologize for my shortcomings and frailties. I declare myself free of shame and guilt. I forgive myself forever.”

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

Be hearty, potent and dynamic, Sagittarius. Don’t worry about decorum and propriety. Be in quest of lively twists that excite the adventurer in you. Avoid anyone who seems to like you best when you are anxious or tightly controlled. Don’t proceed as if you have nothing to lose; instead, act as if you have everything to win. Finally, my dear, ask life to bring you a steady stream of marvels that make you overjoyed to be alive. If you’re feeling extra bold (and I believe you will), request the delivery of a miracle or two.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Nineteenth-century Capricorn author Anne Brontë wrote The Tenant of Wildfell Hall which many critics regard as the first feminist novel. It challenged contemporary social customs. The main character, Helen, leaves her husband because he’s a bad influence on their son. She goes into hiding, becoming a single mother who supports her family by creating art. Unfortunately, after the author’s death at a young age, her older sister Charlotte suppressed the publication of The Tenant of Wildfell Hall. It’s not well-known today. I bring this to your attention, Capricorn, so as to inspire you to action. I believe the coming months will be a favorable time to get the attention and recognition you’ve been denied but thoroughly deserve. Start now! Liberate, express and disseminate whatever has been suppressed.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

What is the most important question you want to find an answer for during the next year? The coming weeks will be an excellent time to formulate that inquiry clearly and concisely. I urge you to write it out in longhand and place it in a prominent place in your home. Ponder it lightly and lovingly for two minutes every morning upon awakening and each night before sleep. (Key descriptors: “lightly and lovingly.”) As new insights float into your awareness, jot them down. One further suggestion: Create or acquire a symbolic representation of the primal question.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20)

Scientific research suggests that some foods are more addictive than cocaine. They include pizza, chocolate, potato chips, and ice cream. The good news is that they are not as problematic for long-term health as cocaine. The bad news is that they are not exactly healthy. (The sugar in chocolate neutralizes its modest health benefits.) With these facts in mind, Pisces, I invite you to re-order your priorities about addictive things. Now is a favorable time to figure out what substances and activities might be tonifying, invigorating addictions—and then retrain yourself to focus your addictive energy on them. Maybe you could encourage an addiction to juices that blend spinach, cucumber, kale, celery and apple. Perhaps you could cultivate an addiction to doing a pleasurable form of exercise or reading books that thrill your imagination.

urban LIVING

Presidents and Prices

In a month we’ll learn who the new president of the United States will be, unless …? I don’t want to go down the road of conspiracy theories, but wanted to add some facts to the age-old question: “Do presidential elections affect the housing market?”

According to the data keepers at the National Association of Realtors, when it’s an election year for the CEO of the country, sales in November go down 9.4% versus a 9.8% dip in years where there isn’t an election. On July 4, Newsweek interviewed the chief investment officer at mortgage lender New American Funding, who said: “There is certainly a human element to housing prices and mortgage rates. As a result, election years can bring more volatility to prices and rates than in non-election years. However, those moments of volatility are fleeting.”

Both major party candidates promise to cut inflation, increase the housing supply and cut interest rates. We’ve just had a major half-point reduction by the Federal Reserve two weeks ago, which is saving buyers a bit on mortgage interest and credit card rates.

People forget that a year ago, rates were at 8% for an average home loan and now they are hovering in the low 6% area. No one can cut inflation pressures quickly, but increasing affordable housing will help what is being called a “frozen, mostly unaffordable market.”

The market will respond to how we all vote in November, because if we as individual voters like the outcome we’ll go out and buy things like cars, houses, furniture, appliances (i.e. big ticket items). There is no evidence, though, that presidential elections have a huge impact on home prices. According to CoreLogic, which has collected data since 1988, prices rose an average of 4.5% during the fall of non-election years compared to 4.4% in years with a presidential election.

I don’t care who you vote for, as long as you do vote and participate in our democratic process. In Utah, you can register online at vote.org/registerto-vote/utah if your information is received by 5 p.m., at least 11 days before election day. If you’re registering by mail you must make sure your registration is received by that same time, 11 days before an election. You can also register in-person on election day at a voting location.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

ACROSS

1. “Everybody Loves Raymond,” for one

7. Church section

11. “Everybody Loves ___ Sunshine” (one of Kamala Harris’s “favorite albums of all time”)

14. Dr. Scholl’s purchase

15. ___-chef (second-in-command in the kitchen)

16. Ball ending?

17. Defeating Dad by a lot?

19. Vote (for)

20. Shopping bag

21. Company whose cookies are purportedly made by elves

23. Not only that

26. Trash can resident

28. “Insecure” creator Rae

29. Indicates

31. Cruise the pubs

33. Skater Harding

34. Cook, but not enough

36. Sault ___ Marie, Michigan

37. Passes up

39. “___ da” (all-purpose ScandinavianAmerican phrase)

42. What fog comes on, in a Sandburg poem

44. Prefix for some Goths?

46. Somewhere halfway between noon and 5 p.m.

48. Angry look

50. Avoid

51. Playful river mammal

53. March middle

54. Jefferson Airplane spinoff band of 1969

56. “Please ___ Eat the Daisies”

58. Former soccer prodigy Freddy

59. Canada’s possible national symbol, if there were no maples?

64. Golf score standard

65. Native Brazilian along the Amazon

66. Shocked response to “It’ll happen to all of you”

67. Summer, in parts of Europe

68. “Double Stuf” cookie

69. Foul up intentionally, as a conversation

DOWN

1. Knightly title

2. Rescuer of Odysseus

3. Nashville sch.

4. Soft and fluffy

5. Hodgepodge

6. “The FreshMaker”

7. Cleopatra’s downfall

8. Dig Dug character with goggles

9. 1970s Dodge Charger (that’s not the new strain of stinging insect)

10. In ___ (existing)

11. Contemptible person got loud?

12. “I wish”

13. Catch deceptively

18. Charades signal

22. Hoopoe, for one

23. Rental units, for short

24. Plunder

25. Fashion that involves trigonometry?

27. Clog up

30. 1909-1912 First Family

32. Heated crime?

35. Calligrapher’s sign of completeness?

38. Words after “word” or “badge” (in some countries)

40. “Punky Brewster” star Soleil Moon ___

41. Antagonists

43. “___ Too Proud to Beg” (1966 song)

46.

47.

49. Made smooth

52. Brownish-gray shade

55. Occupied with

57. “Scream” star Campbell

60. Cancun uncle

61. “Messenger” material

62. One of the former Big Four record labels

63. Slippery fish

Last week’s answers

To register in Utah, you must be a citizen of the U.S., have resided in the precinct in which you are registering to vote for at least 30 days prior to the election, be 18 years old by election day, not be convicted of certain felonies or treason or have been found to be mentally incompetent by a court of law.

For information on all Utah candidates, go to the League of Women Voters of Utah website: www.lwvutah.org. They offer non-partisan data on all those running for office in this year’s election in November. I won’t see you at

polls because I trust my mail-in

Complete the grid so that each row, column, diagonal and 3x3 square contain all of the numbers 1 to 9. No math is involved. The grid has numbers, but nothing has to add up to anything else. Solve the puzzle with reasoning and logic. Solving time is typically 10 to 30 minutes, depending on your skill and experience.

45. Run like a squirrel

Form for some three-way junctions

New Orleans Saints fan’s chant

NEWS of the WEIRD

Awesome!

Poor Crumbs. The now-famous corpulent cat, named for his ability to eat, was found in early September in the basement of a hospital in Perm, Russia, the New York Post reported on Sep. 13, where the staff had given him a steady diet of cookies and soup. When he was discovered, he weighed more than 37 pounds—about three times the average size for a cat—and was unable to support his weight to walk. Crumbs (or Kroshik, in Russian) was moved to the Matroskin Shelter, where workers put him on a strict diet and exercise regimen— apparently not his cup of tea, as he tried to escape on Sept. 11. Rehab expert Ekaterina Bedakova said Crumbs was “extremely displeased” when, during his escape attempt, he got himself stuck in a shoe rack and couldn’t get out. But she was enthused about his effort because it demonstrated that he’s a “very active guy.”

Precocious

A family in Bedford, Ohio, reported their Nissan Rogue and their 8-year-old daughter missing around 9 a.m. on Sept. 15, the Associated Press reported. Police learned that witnesses had seen a small child driving nearby, but it wasn’t until they checked the parking lot at Target, about 13 miles away, that they discovered the car. The girl was inside the store; she told officers that she had hit a mailbox during her journey, but otherwise it went fine. Authorities were weighing whether any charges would be filed.

News You Can Use

n In Japan, the number of people aged 100 or older has hit a new record—95,119, AFP reported on Sept. 17. Most of the centenarians are women, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications noted. The world’s oldest person, Tomiko Itooka of western Japan, is 116. Japan’s oldest man, Kiyotaka Mizuno, 110, told local media that he has “no idea at all about what’s the secret to my long life.”

n About 40 feet off the coast of Miami Beach, the world’s first underwater cemetery is already home to about 1,500 “placements,” ClickOrlando reported on Sept. 17. The Neptune Memorial Reef’s community resource director, Michael Tabers, said the area had already been designated for an artificial reef when “a group of businessmen in the area ... had the idea.” The reef was built “from an artist conception of the Lost City of Atlantis”; customers’ cremains are mixed with water and formed into road columns, archways or depictions of local sea life, such as starfish or seashells. Then coral grows around them. “We have sea turtle placements; those are some of our more popular ones,” Taber said. The reef has already been extended once, but when it fills, “we will launch the next phase,” he said. Coral reef conservation activists are thrilled; the reef provides surfaces that help coral to thrive. And loved ones can also dive to visit their family members’ resting places.

Police Report

Javaughn J. Owens, 23, was charged with first-degree attempted murder after he got into a dispute over a peanut butter and jelly sandwich on Sept. 15, the DeKalb County Daily Chronicle reported. A witness told DeKalb police that Owens and another man argued about the victim “not cleaning up after themselves,” whereupon Owens swung a butter knife and struck the other man. The victim was seen at a local hospital but had to be transported to Chicago for further treatment of a punctured intestine. He said he believed “100%” that Owens would kill him. Owens faces up to 60 years in prison.

Inexplicable

Beaches along the Atlantic Ocean in Delaware, Maryland and Virginia were closed to swimmers by authorities on Sept. 15 after mysterious medical waste started washing up, The New York Times reported. The trash included syringes and needles, used feminine hygiene products and plastic cigar tips. “We currently have no idea where it came from and will not be speculating about a source,” said the National Park Service office at Assateague Island National Seashore. They were unsure how long beaches would remain closed. “We recommend wearing shoes on the beach and avoiding the ocean entirely,” warned Joe Theobald, director of Emergency Services in Ocean City, Maryland.

Saw That Coming

Norton Havoc, 32, can now “smell colors,” they said, after blowing their nose in the shower and dislodging a Lego block that had been stuck inside for “at least 26 years,” the New York Post reported on Sep. 14. Havoc posted that they suffered from “multiple breathing issues” after the childhood incident; at the time, their mom tried to extricate the piece with tweezers, to no avail. “I can breathe out of this side of my nose now, and it’s fantastic,” Havoc said.

The Way the World Works

Vacaville, California, resident Ken Wilson is very careful about his consumption of electricity. “I was being very vigilant on this,” he told KMAX-TV on Sep. 17. “Every day that I go to work, I turn the breakers off.” Wilson also purchased a device that tells him how many watts of energy his appliances are using. But recently he noticed that his bill was higher than normal. Wilson has lived in an apartment, unit 91 of his building, for 18 years. After Wilson called Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) to come out and check his meter on Sept. 10, he discovered he’s been paying for unit 90’s electricity usage for years. PG&E admitted the mix-up and said it is “fully committed to rectifying the situation.” Wilson said he hopes the story can help others with similar problems.

Send your weird news items to WeirdNewsTips@amuniversal.com