City Weekly December 7, 2023

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City Weekly’s year-end guide to getting through the holidays and closing out those Christmas lists.

BY KATHARINE BIELE, CAROLYN CAMPBELL, AIMEE L. COOK AND BENJAMIN WOOD

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CONTENTS

Cover Story

SEASON OF GIFTING

City Weekly’s year-end guide to getting through the holidays and closing out those Christmas lists.

By Katharine Biele, Carolyn Campbell, Aimee L. Cook and Benjamin Wood

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Cover design by Derek Carlisle

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STAFF

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Publisher PETE SALTAS News Editor BENJAMIN WOOD Arts & Entertainment Editor SCOTT RENSHAW Contributing Editor JERRE WROBLE Music Editor EMILEE ATKINSON Listings Desk WES LONG Executive Editor and Founder JOHN SALTAS

Editorial Contributors KATHARINE BIELE, ROB BREZSNY, CAROLYN CAMPBELL, AIMEE L. COOK, MARK DAGO, BILL FROST, BRYANT HEATH, MARYANN JOHNSON, MIKE RIEDEL, ARICA ROBERTS, ALEX SPRINGER, LEE ZIMMERMAN Art Director DEREK CARLISLE Graphic Artists SOFIA CIFUENTES, CHELSEA NEIDER

Circulation Manager ERIC GRANATO Associate Business Manager PAULA SALTAS Technical Director BRYAN MANNOS Developer BRYAN BALE Senior Account Executive DOUG KRUITHOF Account Executives KELLY BOYCE, KAYLA DREHER Display Advertising 801-654-1393 National Advertising VMG Advertising | 888-278-9866

Salt Lake City Weekly is published every Thursday by Copperfield Publishing Inc. We are an independent publication dedicated to alternative news and news sources, that also serves as a comprehensive entertainment guide. 15,000 copies of Salt Lake City Weekly are available free of charge at more than 1,800 locations along the Wasatch Front. Limit one copy per reader. Additional copies of the paper can be purchased for $1 (Best of Utah and other special issues, $5) payable to Salt Lake City Weekly in advance. No person, without expressed permission of Copperfield Publishing Inc., may take more than one copy of any Salt Lake City Weekly issue. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in whole or part by any means, including electronic retrieval systems, without the written permission of the publisher. Third-class postage paid at Midvale, UT. Delivery might take up to one full week. All rights reserved.

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“X Marks the Spot,” Nov. 30 Soap Box

@SLCWEEK LY

Is someone at City Weekly related to or sleeping with Thomas L. Knapp? Once again, his vapid, published op-ed fills the Soap Box. Knapp questions the purpose of digital advertising. He sees it as having changed from selling products and services to avoiding, “at all costs, having it noticed ... near content that pisses people off.” He sees these purposes as incompatible and wonders why advertisers even care about the latter.

The latter, of course, refers to advertisements displaying on pages with content that does not reflect the advertiser’s values or the image it wishes to project.

This is basic brand management, which advertisers have practiced since the beginning of time by controlling where their ads will appear.

Digital advertising has removed that control. With advertising as the revenue stream of the internet, Big Tech created processes to maximize it. The main ones are microtargeting, which collects and stores user data, and programmatic advertising, in which ad servers match sellers of ad space (web sites) with the highest bidders (advertisers). Matches are made in real-time between user profiles and advertisers’ target profiles as users go from page to page.

Advertisers have complained about digital risks to brand safety since at least 2010, asking Big Tech to improve its algorithms and to provide controls for where ads may appear. These complaints reached crisis proportions with the proliferation of user-generated content (UGC), which

started in the 2010s and exploded during the COVID pandemic.

UGC proliferated because web sites make money from advertising. The more visits to a web site, the more money. The internet today is full of misleading, inflammatory and fraudulent content because it attracts traffic. And advertisers have been subsidizing it, leading to its increasing proliferation.

Digital advertisers have since focused on brand suitability, which proactively controls where ads appear. Meanwhile, in response to global privacy regulation, programmatic advertising is evolving to privacy-first processes such as contextual marketing and telco-verified IDs. These should mitigate issues affecting advertisers in the current advertising model and increase their returns on investment.

Knapp believes advertisers are making a poor long-term business decision. The response by Big Tech and the continued exuberance of consumer spending seem to say otherwise.

KENNER SIEBUS

Murray

“Incumbent Upon,” Nov. 30 News

I didn’t vote for [Rocky Anderson]. He’s a known workplace bully in a serious way. I’ve had bad bosses and refuse to support other bad bosses.

EMMYCLU

Via Instagram Rocky would’ve done really great things, again, for the city. He’s always been for the people.

SUPERMOCHELLA

Via Instagram Relentless negativity and painting SLC as a horrible place was bad strategy. He deserved to lose.

NICKTSLC

Via Instagram This is so disappointing. [Mayor Erin] Mendenhall is the perfect candidate for liberals who want to out-liberal each other. Rocky has experience with this city and state. Mendenhall has nothing but broken promises and an unsheltered crisis the likes of which Salt Lake City has never seen.

JHUFF012

Via Instagram Care to sound off on a feature in our pages or about a local concern? Write to comments@cityweekly.net or post your thoughts on our social media. We want to hear from you!

THE WATER

COOLER What is your most nostalgic dish from your childhood?

Wes Long

Malt-o-meal, toast and canned peaches.

Still one of my favorites!

Kelly Boyce

Kraft Mac & Cheese—but without the cheese. I put barbecue or A.1. Sauce on it. I waited until college to eat it with cheese, and now I love it.

Carolyn Campbell

I have to say chicken cheese soup. If your last name is Campbell, ya gotta like soup.

Bryan Bale

The meal I remember most from childhood was fried breaded pork chops, apple sauce and macaroni and cheese.

Emilee Atkinson

Grilled cheese with one side burned. Lol, love you, Mom!

Christa Zaro

Lasagne—made with Sunday sauce by my grandmom, Yolanda Zaro

Eric Granato

Cheese on a plate. That’s it, that’s the dish: melted cheese on a plate.

Paula Saltas

The Greek soup that cures everything: avgolemeno. Orzo with an egg lemon sauce.

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PRIVATE

BY JOHN SALTAS

EYE @johnsaltas

Best of Worst

A

s everyone knows, Erin Mendenhall was recently reelected mayor of Salt Lake City.

Her leading opponent, former Salt Lake City Mayor Rocky Anderson (who was full of vim and vigor at the City Weekly Best of Utah Party on Nov. 30, which he attended as winner of Utah’s Best Radical award) has already announced he’s finished running for political office.

So, with Anderson not in the frame—and few viable Salt Lake City mayoral candidates on any hill or horizon—is it too early to proclaim Mendenhall as “mayor for life” of this fair city?

Of course, time will tell if that scenario plays out. So often during a politician’s second term (and beyond) scandals emerge, nefarious alliances are both made or revealed, and the citizenry starts to look around and compare promises to results.

This usually dovetails with the rise of a newly ambitious candidate, one willing to point to any foible—no matter how weak that foible may be—on which to clamp a campaign upon, assailing the incumbent at every turn as being weak, incompetent and lacking the real vision only a newcomer can bring to the table. That’s because nearly all newcomers have nothing to bring to the table at all except criticism.

The thing is, it works. It works so well that the game becomes not to make a city, county, state or country better via the political office held but, instead, to simply get elected and then stay there come hell or high water.

The voting electorate is far more in tune with what’s wrong than it is to what’s right. It hears the squeaky wheel of woe, but it seldom tunes into the silent sounds of suc-

cess. Pretty soon, with all those political birds chirping out bad news, the public starts to believe things really are terrible when they actually may not be so bad at all.

It’s at times like these that things get quite interesting. We are all pretty sick and tired of lifelong politicians.

Every board, council, legislative house or hall can boast members who are past their “use by” date. But they keep getting elected to matter how useless they are.

The fault for this is part party politics, part political inertia and part voter apathy. It’s also emblematic of the romantic flaw of democratic government, being that our politicians are actually the best among us with noble intentions being their calling card. So, if they are in office, they must be good guys—right?

That may be what they teach us in grade school, and it may be true still that some individual politicians remain more civic-minded than wallet-minded. There are even some who remain genuinely good humans.

But their numbers are thinning, especially at the state and national levels. Is Joe Biden one of those? I really don’t know, but I do know that one of his current detractors, Lindsey Graham, not so long ago said of Joe Biden that he “is as good a man as God ever created” and the “nicest man I ever met in politics.”

Is Utah Sen. Mike Lee one of those? I seriously doubt it.

He’s gotten increasingly creepy the closer former President Trump comes to his court date. Like today—using his childish X/Twitter handle of @basedmikelee—Lee is ranting and posting videos of himself hectoring FBI Director Christopher Wray.

Wray has already told Congress that the FBI is aware of conversations among Jan. 6 insurrectionists, seemingly including those between Mike Lee and other so-called protectors of the Constitution. Lee seems to be worrying about it so much, he’s losing his hair. In a couple of minutes, he’ll be as loud and bald as Don Rickles but without the humor.

He is not alone in his umbrage. Other human panic

buttons like Sens. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, and Josh Hawley, R-Missouri, are also screaming at Wray, making haughty claims about the Fourth Amendment and how our rights against unreasonable search and seizure et al are being infringed upon.

You tell me what’s worse: A person who spent 14 hours a day trying to find a way to unravel a fair election and upend a republic? Or the method by which that person was caught?

In the 1950s, a U.S. Senate committee (chaired by future President John F. Kennedy) was formed to determine which U.S. senators had been the most outstanding up to that time. After a year of study and consultation, the committee released their “famous five” including Robert La Follette, Robert Taft, Henry Clay, Daniel Webster and the most outstanding of all, John C. Calhoun.

I’d be remiss in failing to note that I am related to Calhoun, his middle name being Caldwell, my grandmother’s maiden name. I’d also be remiss in not pointing out that I don’t consider that relationship a high honor, as Calhoun was a slave owner and pro-slavery. The wild-haired Calhoon should be the GIF explaining that being outstanding and being good do not require alignment.

Mike Lee is neither good nor outstanding. His failure in both columns remains a drum worth beating.

I wish Lee had attended City Weekly’s Best of Utah party, as Rocky did. Same with Mendenhall. I would’ve been nice to them both.

Someday, I’d like to meet Lee, the man who received more votes from our readers for the “Worst Utahn” category than anyone ever has received for any other award— getting more votes all by himself than many of the combined nominees in entire Best of Utah categories got.

Lee isn’t without his fans—Lucifer, Beelzebub, Elmer Fudd and the lot—so it’s not unheard of for certain of his tribe to sing his praises, such as, “Mike Lee doesn’t eat children.” But, can they prove that? CW Send comments to john@cityweekly.net

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HITS & MISSES

BY KATHARINE BIELE |

@kathybiele

BY BRYANT HEATH

MISS: Light the Fire

And lo, there was great rejoicing—if hyperbole—just in time for the holidays. The Winter Olympics maybe, surely, will be coming back to Utah in 2034. So, officials lit the old cauldron at Rice-Eccles Stadium from 2002. That was when we had some fun and some scandal. It was when Chris Vanocur gained fame—however fleeting—for breaking news of bribery, the kind of news that brought Mitt Romney to Utah to save the day. Sure there was post9/11 concern about terrorism, but Salt Lake weathered the storm. Times are different now. The air might seem better, but it’s getting worse. Inversions and snowfall were problems in 2002 and may be even more so by ’34. The biggest problem is managing growth, political pundit Dave Owen told KJZZ14.

And Salt Lake is all about growth—lots of it, along with high housing prices and a shrinking Great Salt Lake. After 2002, a nonprofit coalition started looking at how the next Games might benefit the city. Convincing the Olympic Committee to focus on Salt Lake benefits will be a game in itself.

MISS: Shrinking Schools

Speaking of growth, let’s talk about children. Utahns aren’t having as many of them. Go figure, what with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ desire for more souls—for both spiritual and economic gain. Researchers at the University of Utah’s Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute point to a 12% decline in kids from 2010 to 2020. The Salt Lake Tribune’s Andy Larsen further broke down the numbers, but mostly just asks why. The answer, in a nutshell, is the high cost of living, particularly in Salt Lake. Couples can’t afford to own a home. Of course, it’s not just Utah. People are putting off having kids all over. The city school board has gone about closing schools for that reason, but isn’t really thinking this through. “I still feel they need to more clearly explain why schools with fewer students is actually a bad thing, not a plus,” Larsen writes. Maybe if there were better education opportunities, the children would come back.

HIT: Flapping in the Breeze

Let’s talk about flags and the good news that Utahns are pretty much OK with the state’s new one. It wasn’t just rolled out—there were contests and test runs before the Legislature OK’d the sleeker, updated design. And yet, it roiled a significant part of the electorate, who have so far unsuccessfully tried to run an initiative to overturn it.

Much like the controversy over removing Confederate statues, flag opponents think the new flag waters down history and whatever significance there is in the old design, which frankly few Utahns could draw or remember if asked. “They’re trying to cancel our heritage,” opponent Brad Holdaway told The New York Times. Utahns aren’t the only ones upset by flag designs, and some believe it’s a sign of our divisive politics. The flag will become official next year, and at least it doesn’t say “Don’t Tread on Me” or have a hidden swastika on it.

Far West W

e all know that Temple Square marks the heart of Salt Lake City’s street grid, but where do you think the actual geographic center of the city is?

Recently, I took a census of some friends’ responses and Liberty Park was the most common answer, which makes sense, because it feels very central. All were surprised when I informed them that the actual answer is about four-and-a-half miles away, just north of the Utah State Fairpark at roughly 1300 West and Walnut Drive.

This is the point where if you lifted up our entire city and placed it on the tip of your finger, it would balance.

The reason the center lies so far west is because—unbeknownst to many— Salt Lake City stretches way out there.

We’re talking miles and miles beyond the airport to streets like 7200 West and 8000 West. A portion of SLC even borders Magna … Magna!

What’s out there? There’s a surprising lot, actually.

Yes, you have the rows of identical warehouses that stretch endlessly toward the horizon. But even dotted within these dystopian monstrosities are gems, such as the ultra-sleek, lowprofile building of bioMérieux’s original west side campus on 4800 West and 1100 South and the Price Realty-owned distribution centers that are distinctly marked with colorful shipping containers embedded into their facades and scattered throughout the trendilynamed “Northwest Quadrant” area.

If you grew up in Salt Lake County, odds are that one of your first forays to the far west of SLC was on a school field trip to the Lee Kay Ponds on California Avenue (and 5800 West), near the newly constructed Mountain View Corridor.

Squeezed between a gun range and the Salt Lake Valley Landfill, this conservation area is popular with birds and bird watchers alike, who both seem content with not making the long commute out to the Great Salt Lake wetlands.

If you head farther west along California Avenue—where the asphalt turns into a dirt road and then the dirt road turns into a dirt “road”—you come across the Salt Lake City Model Plane Airport. It was here that I took my drone for a quick flight to head even farther west and capture the dried-out tailings ponds and the smelter stack from the nearby Kennecott mine operation (photo above), all which lie just outside our city’s borders.

Although the “Think About It” sign on the building is only half of a gigantic HR memo meant for employees (“It’s Your Safety” adorns the other side), it does seem like an appropriate message for the area as a whole. Despite the Northwest Quadrant being out of sight and out of mind for many, it still is a part of our city, after all. CW Small Lake City is home to local writers and their opinions.

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A&E

TRUE TV Cult Docs for Christmas Pause your usual holiday romcoms and cozy up with some documentaries about cults.

BY BILL FROST comments@cityweekly.net

‘T

is the season to watch cult documentaries, not Christmas romcoms filmed in Ogden last summer. Christmastime and cults go together like milk and phenobarbital-laced cookies: hypnotic sparkly lights; feigned goodwill; nonstop ad indoctrination; savior confusion (Jesus?

Santa? Warren Jeffs?). Wake up and smell the peppermint Flavor-Aid, people. Here are a few cult docs to cozy up with this season.

Love Has Won: The Cult of Mother God (2023; Max): It all opens with body-cam footage of the Colorado compound of the Love Has Won cult, zooming in on a mummified body with no eyes wrapped in Christmas lights—welcome to the weird.

Love Has Won: The Cult of Mother God. The movie has plenty to work with in Amy Carlson, a McDonald’s manager who died for the sins of this “3D world” in 2021, aided by a daily diet of booze, drugs, colloidal silver and a grab-bag of new age lunacy.

Easily the cult doc of the year.

Heaven’s Gate: The Cult of Cults (2020; Max): The extremely-online Love Has Won crew owes it all to Heaven’s Gate, the O.G. internet cult. Like Love Has Won, Heaven’s Gate followers believed their leaders (Marshall Applewhite and Bonnie Nettles) would ascend to heaven in a

UFO upon death. In 1997, clad in matching sweatpants and Nikes, they made it a 39-person group tour package by committing collective suicide to hitch a ride on the passing Hale-Bopp comet. (HeavensGate. com is still up and active, BTW.) The Way Down (2021–2022; Max): Larger-than-life-haired Gwen Shamblin Lara rose to infamy with her Weigh Down Workshop diet program, later transforming it into a God-hates-fatties church called The Remnant Fellowship. Rumors of cult-like psychological, physical and financial abuse plagued Shamblin Lara until she died in a plane crash in 2021—but that didn’t stop the documentary, which added two follow-up episodes in 2022. Proving you can take it with you, she left none of her fortune to the church.

The Vow (2020–2023; Max): The Vow is better known than most of the other docs we’re talking about here, because it involves semi-celebrities like Smallville actress Allison Mack and the daughter of

Dynasty star Catherine Oxenberg, caught up in a “sex cult” (the ultimate documentary marketing phrase). Former NXIVM leader/current inmate Keith Raniere was a creeper “self-help” guru who recruited (and branded) members for money and sex, despite looking like the darkest timeline incarnation of Beavis & Butt-Head’s school teacher.

Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey (2022; Max, Netflix): You can’t spell “Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints” without “fun.” Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey mixes interviews with the women who survived the jelly-wristed rule of FLDS “prophet” Warren Jeffs and dramatized background scenes to powerful effect, subtly increasing the “ick” factor. The religious tyranny, polygamy and child brides of the Mormon offshoot sect have been documented before, but never as bluntly and brutally as this.

Leah Remini: Scientology and the Aftermath (2016–2018; Discovery+, Prime

Video): Actress Leah Remini has become nearly as famous for pissing on Scientology as she is for starring in the greatest American sitcom of all time, The King of Queens (I will die on this admittedly stupid hill). Former Church of Scientology members Remini and Mike Rinder spent three seasons interviewing fellow escapees, with Remini consistently (and rightfully) hammering one detail: the tax-exempt status of churches.

How to Become a Cult Leader (2023; Netflix): If you’ve read this far and are now thinking, “This cult leader gig sounds a hell of a lot better than [insert your deadend job here]. How do I get in?” then How to Become a Cult Leader—a satirical docuseries produced and narrated by Peter Dinklage—is here to help. The six-episode “instructional” kicks off with MVPs Charles Manson and Jim Jones, later delving into deeper cult cuts like Aum Shinrikyo and Buddhafield. Presumably, MAGA will be covered in Season 2. CW

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COURTESY PHOTO COURTESY PHOTO

Curtis Chin has exactly the kind of biography that tracks as an example of the “American Dream”—a child of immigrants who has become an awardwinning writer and documentary filmmaker, even co-founding the Asian American Writers’ Workshop in New York City. But as is usual for such stories, the reality is more complicated, incorporating many of the ways that one can feel “other” in America.

In his new memoir Everything I Learned, I Learned in a Chinese Restaurant, Chin chronicles growing up in 1970s/1980s Detroit, where the Chinese restaurant operated by his family became a place not just for learning about food, but for learning about the world, as it was one of the few restaurants in the segregated city that served Black customers. It’s a tale of finding one’s way in a world of “code-switching,” but also about being gay and not being sure about how to come out to your family. In an October interview with NPR, Chin observed, “No matter how confident you are that your parents are going to love you and accept you for who you are, there’s always this 0.001 percent chance that you might be wrong, right? … So even though, you know, my parents always exhibited positive feelings towards gay people, … and they never said anything homophobic, I just couldn’t take that chance.”

Curtis Chin visits Under the Umbrella bookstore (511 W. 200 South, Suite 120) for a reading and signing of Everything I Learned, I Learned in a Chinese Restaurant on Tuesday, Dec. 12 at 6 p.m. The event is free and open to the public; visit undertheumbrellabookstore.com for additional event information. (SR)

William Christensen’s celebrated choreography of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker has become a generations-spanning tradition for Ballet West and for families throughout Utah, yet it’s still easy to lose track of how significant it is on the national stage, as well. After all, it’s not just any company that gets invited to perform at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., as Ballet West did with its Nutcracker during this past Thanksgiving weekend—it’s fourth such invitation to one of America’s premiere performing-arts showcases.

That’s quite a warm-up gig for its return to delight local audiences for the 2023 holiday season, but a welldeserved honor for America’s longest-running Nutcracker production. The beloved story—based on E.T.A. Hoffman’s 1816 work The Nutcracker and the Mouse King— takes spectators on a fantastical journey from a Christmas party into the dreams of a young girl, centered around her beloved toy nutcracker. With dances celebrating sweets from around the world, and a production filled with wonderful sets and costumes, The Nutcracker, as Ballet West Artistic Director Adam Sklute puts it, “is a great introduction to people who have never seen ballet, but remains substantial and filling for people who know and love this multi-faceted art form.”

Ballet West’s presentation of The Nutcracker takes up residence at the Capitol Theatre (50 W. 200 South) Dec. 8 – 27, with performances Tuesday-Wednesday at 7 p.m., Thursday-Saturday at 2 p.m. & 7 p.m., and Sunday at noon and 5 p.m.

Tickets start at $36; visit arttix.org to purchase tickets and for additional event information. (Scott Renshaw)

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Curtis Chin: Everything I Learned, I Learned in a Chinese Restaurant

Ballet West: The Nutcracker

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Chris Distefano provides proof that bigger can be better. His Comedy Central special, Size 38 Waist, demonstrated the point, courtesy of his self-effacing humor and the gut(s) he reveals, both literally and figuratively. His various late-night guest slots, Netflix specials, appearances on MTV, podcasts, presence on Patreon, and sold-out shows at Radio City Music Hall and Madison Square Garden have made him a veritable superstar in the comedy world. Granted, he has an edge, but his ability to connect with audiences foregoes any hint of angst or intimidation. He’s more or less an Everyman—one reason why Jimmy Kimmel tapped him to host his newest TV venture, the Super Maximum Retro Show.

A devoted baseball fanatic, Distefano is nevertheless unafraid to embrace his feminine side, even admitting that following a break-up, he took it so hard he drank Pinot Grigio and listened to Michael Bublé to ease his anguish. On the other hand, who else would quibble with a little kid over the youngster’s sophisticated taste in ice cream, make fun of his aging father’s twisted dialect, or share an awkward encounter with comedian Tracy Morgan? Then again, Distefano is a master of the matter-of-fact, finding humor in obvious incongruities and frivolous foibles. Thankfully, he’s also fond of foolishness, which gives the rest of us an excuse to laugh it off entirely.

Chris Distefano performs at Wiseguys’ Gateway location (190 S. 400 West on Thursday, Dec. 8 and Friday, Dec. 9 at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. nightly. Tickets cost $45 - $55; visit iseguyscomedy.com for tickets and additional event information. (Lee Zimmerman)

Complete listings online at cityweekly.net

BEAU PEARSON

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ENTERTAINMENT PICKS, DECEMBER 7-13, 2023

14 | DECEMBER 7, 2023

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Gifts of the Wise(?) Men Let us give thanks to Salt Lake City’s ruling overlords, the Utah Legislature.

BY BENJAMIN WOOD

W

City Weekly’s year-end guide to getting through the holidays and closing out those Christmas lists.

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BY KATHARINE BIELE, CAROLYN CAMPBELL, AIMEE L. COOK & BENJAMIN WOOD comments@cityweekly.net

Elections are stressful, for everyone, so maybe Utah lawmakers did Salt Lakers a kindness by preempting our ability to select meaningful representation in Congress and just deciding our “leaders” for us (that’s about the only other explanation beyond “naked partisan gerrymandering”). Sure, most of us had never heard Celeste Maloy’s name until she became our de facto congresswoman in September. But on the flip side, it’s not like we need to bother to get to know her, either—smart money says we won’t be seeing her around town any time soon.

State Street Mid-block Crossings

2034 Olympic Winter Games

Did you know that Salt Lake City can’t make alterations to State Street, of any kind, without the permission and oversight of the Utah Department of Transportation? It’s called “State” Street for a reason, and it’s one of the deadliest stretches of asphalt in all of Utah. So when you see (and hopefully use) the new crosswalk at Gallivan Avenue or the under-construction crossing between The Bayou and The State Room, understand that those seemingly minor, but very much necessary, interventions came only after years of lobbying and only after a sufficient amount of pedestrian death had occurred under federal highway guidelines that are, at best, deeply flawed.

Does it ever feel like everything in Salt Lake City is, like, 20 years old? It basically is, since the 2002 Olympics triggered the last major capital improvement period in Utah and before the 2008 financial crisis slammed the brakes on state spending in a way that we’ve never really bounced back from. But like the cicada, which emerge out of the dirt en masse after years of dormancy, Utah is going for the gold once more, and you better believe that the governor and Legislature intend to clean up the house before company arrives. CW

DECEMBER 7, 2023 | 15

Rep. Celeste Maloy

Even if you still don’t buy into the upsides of rankedchoice voting (less taxpayer expense, more civil campaigning, mathematically assured consensus victories, etc.), Salt Lake City’s now-two election cycles under this balloting format have demonstrated that there’s really no downside. The Utah Legislature allowed cities to test out RCV under a pilot program that will expire unless it is actively extended or codified.

Not only was the Salt Lake City Council right to participate, lawmakers should make it a permanent option available to municipalities (if not used for statewide elections as well).

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ell folks, we’ve made it through another year.

As I write this introduction to City Weekly’s 2023 Gift Guide, the sky above me, seen through the office skylight, is thick and gray and even with the aid of whatever air filtration the Axis Building provides, I can taste it in my throat. Perhaps it’s fitting—a smoggy end to a sloggy year.

With any luck, the air has cleared by the time this issue reaches you, and you’re entering December excited for the adventures that lie ahead, energized by a 2023 that was bright and colorful and pushed you in ways that made you stronger.

Sure, Salt Lake City is still in the hangover of an exhausting election—crammed into Thanksgiving week by the ever-disappointing, nowformer Congressman Chris Stewart. And yeah, we’ve been relentlessly beset by construction for what feels like our entire lives.

But damn it, this city rocks! And there’s no better time to pay back the love SLC has given us all than at the holidays. Got family in town? Take them to your favorite joint! Got gifts to buy? The internet is toxic; walk into a neighborhood shop and put your dollars to work locally! Filled to the brim with righteous wrath over the moral and political failings of our state, national and global leaders? It’s OK, you’re among friends!

In the following pages, our writers offer inspiration for getting to January, with books to read, boutique shopping suggestions, gift ideas related to Utah’s food scene and reminders that it’s OK to take a break from the hustle and bustle and treat yourself. You’ll also find ads from local retailers, ready and waiting to address your holiday shopping, dining and entertainment needs.

And in the spirit of gratitude, allow me to say “thank you” to the State of Utah for its recent contributions to our great city, which include:

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Local books, classes, ingredients and gadgets for cooking in Utah.

BY AIMEE L. COOK comments@cityweekly.net

A

s the festive season draws near, it’s time to think about gifts for our loved ones. And why not mark the occasion with gourmet gifts that have their own local charm?

Below is a gift guide curated for the foodies in your life, highlighting some of Utah’s best local products and artisanal delights.

For the Book Lover Valter of Salt Lake City: The Magic of the Table by Elaine Bapis: Winner in the Coffee-table Book and Regional Cookbook categories by The NYC Big Book Awards, this book, published in 2018, describes the culinary journey of local legend, the late Valter Nassi (of Valter’s Osteria). Illustrated with more than 100 stunning photographs that depict Nassi’s 50-year journey from the hills of Tuscany to the safari capital of Kenya and beyond, Nassi’s narratives offer readers a unique insight into the experiences behind each dish he served, giving a heartfelt understanding of the vibrant food culture and the remarkable individuals who contribute to it.

Find at: valterofslc.com Enjoy! by Lisa Childs (@tried_test_true): With more than 100 pressure-cooker recipes from breakfast dishes to desserts, this cookbook will help you gain confidence and time while using

a pressure cooker or Instand Pot. Each recipe is accompanied by photos, professional tips and a QR code that leads to a detailed blog packed with additional insights, substitution suggestions, freezing instructions and more.

Find at: triedtestedandtrue.com Let’s Eat Cookies: A Collection of the Best Cookie Recipes by Maria Lichty (@ twopeasandpod): This book is both practical and visually appealing, with nine delectable cookie chapters fea-

turing new recipes. Each recipe is accompanied by a beautiful photograph, showcasing the artistry of cookie creation. Lichty shares her best tips and tricks for achieving the perfect cookie and recommendations for kitchen and baking supplies.

Find at: flagship.shop/twopeastheirpod/ products/22882 All You Can Greek by Eleni Saltas: Featuring 65 meticulously crafted recipes from Eleni Saltas (daughter of

City Weekly’s founder, John Saltas), this cookbook gives a taste of Greek favorites with its dips, salads, spanakopita and comforting avgolemeno soup. It also includes a glossary of Greek culinary terms, enthralling travel sections highlighting Greek beaches and monasteries and even a chapter on life lessons that celebrate the essence of Greek culture.

Find it at: elenisaltas.kostizi.com/ Microsite/9485 Continued on p. 18

16 | DECEMBER 7, 2023

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Bon Appétit!

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Park City Culinary Institute

Microgreens kit

Ritual Choclate Beltex Meats

Bear Paws

Gozney oven

Beehive Cheese Continued from p. 16

For Gourmet Ingredients

Cooking Classes to Mico’s Micro Farm Home Microgreens Kit: Up Your Game Microgreens offer concentrated flavors and essential nutrients that enrich your meals and your well-being. Packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, microgreens surpass their fully grown counterparts in nutrient density. Not only are they a delicious way to fortify your diet, they look great as a garnish. This home kit has everything you need to grow microgreens at home.

Find it at: micosmicrofarm.com Beltex Meats: This local butcher shop proudly offers pasture-raised, hormone-free, locally sourced meats, from Berkshire pork to Wagyu beef. Take advantage of their housemade sausages and bone broths for your next dinner. But hurry; availability changes frequently. 511 E. 900 South, SLC, 801-532-2641, beltexmeats.com

Orson Gygi: Classes here cater to all skill levels and are taught by qualified instructors offering an engaging and personalized learning experience in small class sizes. Participants receive hands-on instruction for a variety of culinary techniques from pizza making to decorating cakes, and much more. 3500 S. 300 West, SLC, 801-268-3316, gygicookingclasses.com

Beehive Cheese: Great meals often start and end with cheese, which is why a variety of sliced cheese on a charcuterie board or an elevated mac ’n’ cheese casserole are always crowd pleasers. Whether it’s the creaminess of Seahive or the elevated flavors of Teahive, Beehive’s high-quality cheeses are always sought after and appreciated as gifts. Available at various local grocers. beehivecheese.com

Park City Culinary Institute: For those who wish to take their cooking skills to a professional level, give the gift of a class or a comprehensive certificate program. The institute’s programs offer a cuisine certificate as well as a pastry and baking certificate. They provide hands-on training to teach foundational cooking and baking skills. This includes mastering professional knife handling, technical cuts, food science and classical and modern cooking techniques. The certificate can be earned over a 10-week course or parttime over a period of four months.

1484 S. State, SLC, 801-413-2800, parkcityculinaryinstitute.com

Ritual Chocolate: Drinking chocolates, chocolate bars and cacao nibs make the best gifts for the chocolate lover or baker on your list.

The handcrafted small-batch bean-to-bar chocolate is pure joy. Available at various local grocers and specialty markets. ritualchocolate.com

SLICE: Do you or someone near and dear to you wish to be the best pie maker in the family? Salt Lake Culinary Education aims to enhance your culinary skills and boost selfconfidence through engaging and informative classes. Whether you’re

a novice or an experienced cook, the in-person culinary classes provide the knowledge and techniques needed to create world-class meals at home. 2233 S. 300 East, SLC, 801-464-0113, sliceutah.com Harmons Cooking School: Available at multiple locations, Harmons’ fun and low-stress cooking classes offer numerous culinary instructions.

Classes—from crafting a cheese and grazing board, to rolling your own sushi, to perfecting delicate macarons—cater to a variety of age groups and skill levels. There are courses for Little Chefs (age 5 to 8) and Junior Chefs (age 6 and up), as well as adult-oriented courses with wine and liquor pairings taught by a team of talented chefs. Experience the art of cooking with ease. harmonsgrocery.com/cooking-school

Gadgets for the Outdoor Cook Note: You can find the following items at BBQ Pit Stop (6212 S. State, Murray, 801314-7173, bbqpitstop.com) and various retail locations around Utah.

Traeger Grills: The company that invented the original wood-fired grill also offers a pellet grill/smoker—a great introduction for outdoor cook enthusiasts who want to elevate their game. Traeger Grills come in various sizes and include WIfire technology that you control with an app—no

babysitting required—which is especially helpful with a long smoke, such as a brisket. The app also includes step-by-step recipes. traeger.com

Gozney: With two styles and sizes, this on-the-go oven gives pizza lovers a reason to rejoice, especially for those who love to cook outdoors or in a remote setting. Gozney’s portability and ease of cooking with propane make it an excellent choice. In addition to pizza, this versatile oven cooks a perfect steak in a cast-iron skillet using Gozney’s high-temperature capabilities. https://us.gozney.com

Thermapen: With readings in mere seconds, this cooking thermometer is just what you need so you never serve undercooked or overcooked foods again. thermoworks.com/classic-thermapen

Bear Paws: Created by Jordan Checketts, a local BBQ aficionado, Bear Paws offer the perfect solution for effortlessly shredding meat. The ultra-sharp “claws” allow for handling and shredding of pork, chicken, beef and more. Made with BPA-free nylon, these easy-to-use, FDA-approved tools are meltproof and dishwasher safe, withstanding temperatures up to 475 degrees. Featured on BBQ Pitmasters, Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, and America’s Test Kitchen. thebbqbutler.com CW

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DECEMBER 7, 2023 | 19

ver i l e D

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We

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Winter is Coming.

Might as well make it Beautiful.

Flowers for Gifts, Flowers for Decor.

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Book Report A handy reading list for Utah lawmakers doubles as gift ideas for the politico bookworm in your life.

BY KATHARINE BIELE comments@cityweekly.net

Ready, Aim, Fire!

Search no further, legislators. Author Ben Sheehan is here to help, and so are we with this special holiday gift for the would-be constitutional expert. No need for a crystal ball with OMG WTF Does the Constitution Really Say?: A Non-Boring Guide to How Our Democracy Is Supposed to Work. And for those of you concerned about the “F-word,” Sheehan offers a children’s version. Start them young!

COURTESY PHOTO

U

tah legislators like to carry a U.S Constitution around in their pockets, so we can assume they do read occasionally.

It’s not much of a stretch to say that some think they can channel the Founding Fathers—like they could activate their flux capacitors whenever they want to tell us what the FFs meant by some particular phrase.

With the legislative session around the corner in January, City Weekly has prepared a list of reading materials to help lawmakers in the Beehive State get up to speed on how government in the United States is intended to function—you know, separation of powers, civil rights, that sort of thing.

And if you’re not a member of the Utah House or Senate, try checking out a few of these titles yourself. Last we checked, none of them had been banned in Utah … yet.

Author Ben Sheehan, above right, dissects laws and debates perennial issues such as guns and equal rights.

U.S. Sen. Mike Lee has devoted an entire section of his website to “Protecting the Second Amendment.”

He thinks the Supreme Court was right to say “the right to keep and bear arms” was a guarantee for individuals, not militias.

Sheehan has read the Second Amendment’s text “more times than I honestly thought I would,” and he’s got some questions, like what does the phrase about “well-regulated” militias mean? Are we talking about just militia members owning guns?

When the Second Amendment was written, those “milita” guys were typically between 18-44, free, able-bodied and white. Oh, and there have been only six Supreme Court rulings on Second Amendment

cases since 1875, and half of those have occurred since 2008. Ask yourself why.

We will talk about another book for you later when author Kurt Andersen also tackles the Constitution.

Meanwhile, here is a sampling of what Andersen has to say on the subject of gun rights: “One set of fantasies—the one that recast owning guns as among the most important rights, as American liberty and individualism incarnate. During my lifetime, the love of guns has become a fetish. It is picking our pockets and definitely breaking our legs.”

Sheehan also talks about the Equal Rights Amendment and the logjam that has kept it from passing.

We’re talking to you, legislators.

Continued on p. 22

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Continued from p. 20

Bindings Full of Women

The Melting Pot

As long as we’re on the ERA, how about reading The Republican War Against Women: An Insider’s Report From Behind the Lines by Tanya Melich. Sure, it was written before the 1996 election, but you might ask yourselves how come the GOP didn’t seem to pay attention?

Melich—who, by the way, has a strong Utah connection—has been a Republican Party official, worked on many GOP campaigns and co-founded the Republican Women’s movement.

“The Republican Party of my youth no longer exists,” she says.

What else characterized the 1996 GOP candidates? They argued that government should dictate reproductive choice, should not help with child care and should do away with Affirmative Action. Fast-forward to 2023: Done!

Speaking of women, we (maybe Amazon) are giving our legislators copies of The Turnaway Study: The Cost of Denying Women Access to Abortion by Diana Greene Foster. It comes with a complimentary wire hanger, the GOP’s top choice for unlawful abortions.

The book is “the landmark study of the consequences on women’s lives—emotional, physical, financial, professional, personal and psychological—of receiving versus being denied an abortion.”

Legislators don’t like to think about those things because it’s all too messy and really doesn’t concern men, who primarily are the ones writing the laws. And this book is data-driven, which typically drives Republicans away.

And finally—or maybe not finally—two books by Kurt Andersen, which you all should read from cover to cover, unless they have been banned at your local library. In that case, definitely try Amazon for True Believers: A Novel, and Fantasyland: How America Went Haywire—a 500-Year History.

Here’s a sampling, and we’re sure you will be enthralled by the reference to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints: “America was created by true believers and passionate dreamers, by hucksters and their suckers—which over the course of four centuries has made us susceptible to fantasy, as epitomized by everything from Salem hunting witches to Joseph Smith creating Mormonism, from P.T. Barnum to Henry David Thoreau to speaking in tongues, from Hollywood to Scientology to conspiracy theories, from Walt Disney to Billy Graham to Ronald Reagan to Oprah Winfrey to Donald Trump.”

Andersen continues: “In other words, mix epic individualism with extreme religion; mix show business with everything else; let all that steep and simmer for a few centuries ; run it through the anything-goes 1960s and the Internet age; the result is the America we inhabit today, where reality and fantasy are weirdly and dangerously blurred and commingled.”

Today, many believe with all their heart that the United States was founded by Christians and should be a Christian nation—kind of like the Taliban in reverse.

Some lawmakers want Utah to be an LDS-GOP haven, too. So we are suggesting lawmakers review a copy of Utah’s Gerrymandered Map of Voting Districts to remind them of their success in this area.

Andersen is not a big fan of religion and how it has consumed America. “America was the dreamworld creation of fantasists, some religious and some out to get rich quick, all with a freakish appetite for the amazing. … America was founded by a nutty religious cult. Puritans.” We’re not saying that Mormons are Puritans, but you get the idea.

And we are sure you have all read the Utah State Constitution, but just in case, we will send you a blurb to frame and hang on your wall.

Article I, Section 4. [Religious liberty.]

The rights of conscience shall never be infringed. The State shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; no religious test shall be required as a qualification for any office of public trust or for any vote at any election; nor shall any person be incompetent as a witness or juror on account of religious belief or the absence thereof. There shall be no union of Church and State, nor shall any church dominate the State or interfere with its functions. No public money or property shall be appropriated for or applied to any religious worship, exercise or instruction, or for the support of any ecclesiastical establishment.

In the spirit of the season, Utah politicians should ask themselves if their campaign flyers and social media posts should always mention LDS affiliation. We know who and what you are. Happy Holidays! CW

Dumbing Down We also recognize that our lawmakers swoon over the late actor and president Ronald Reagan. Reagan’s name is often invoked, sometimes even by liberals, to try to soften the blows of Republican governance.

That said, we’re gifting legislators Andy Borowitz’s now-in-paperback book Profiles in Ignorance–How America’s Politicians Got Dumb and Dumber. Of the Gipper, Borowitz says, “Reagan was more responsible for the rise of ignorance than for the fall of communism.”

That should get you reading. Or this. “Not so long ago, it was less than ideal for an American politician to seem like a dumbass. If a candidate’s stupidity became too glaring, the consequences could be dire: derision, contempt and electoral oblivion,” Borowitz writes. “In the mid-1960s, a candidate clip-clopped into town and though possessing a puny saddlebag of knowledge, stuck to a script that fooled enough of the people enough of the time. It helped that he’d spent years on Hollywood soundstages memorizing lines and performing them with spectacular sincerity, even when acting opposite a chimp. His name was Ronald Reagan, and it’s in no small part thanks to him that today we can say: It’s Moronic in America.”

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DECEMBER 7, 2023 | 23

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Big joy arrives in small packages.

BY CAROLYN CAMPBELL comments@cityweekly.net

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G

ifting time can be stressful for many Utahns, but not Courtney Williams, who created her own business to bring a personal touch to promotional items like custom hats, mugs and T-shirts.

“It’s my passion project,” said the owner and founder of Promote It Utah (7324 Union Park Ave., Midvale, 385557-8300, promoteitutah.com) “There is nothing like giving something to someone that makes them feel like you have thought about them.”

When it comes to gifting, Williams suggests starting the process by “meaningful listening” in the company of someone you like or love.

“Pay attention to what they say in passing. It could be something as simple as being together in Target, seeing a box of stationery, and hearing them say, ‘I like that,’” Williams said.

She said small gifts, such as handwritten greeting cards, can originate everywhere. “With digital communication being so common these days, writing the card by hand, sticking a stamp on it, and mailing it, can be very impactful,” Williams said.

Local artists’ creations are available at Everything Utah

More for Less Big gift-giving success can originate with small gifts, says Mary Lindsey, proprietress of Everything Utah (311 S. State, SLC, 801-5180130, everythingut.com).

“Sometimes people appreciate a meaningful small gift as much as something that is over the top,” Lindsey explained.

When Lindsey opened her gift and souvenir store in 2017, she aimed to showcase the Utah experience through various lenses. By reaching out to local artists and artisans, she has created a unique gift assortment that could serve as stocking stuffers

or small gifts for a friend or family member. “There is no set budget for a stocking stuffer, although it’s common to spend less on a stocking stuffer than a wrapped present,” Lindsey said. “Generally, you can pay $10 to $50 for stocking stuffer gifts.”

From custom-made travel mirrors to locally made Native American necklaces and rings to delicious food items such as local jams, chocolate and coffee, Lindsey sells many Everything Utah gifts as reasonably priced as under $10. Many others cost less than $25.

Everything Utah’s signature candles come in two sizes, and the store

also offers “fun little sculptures, and there’s a small desert garden that would fit in a stocking.”

Lindsey also noted the local minerals sold in her store, which carry “a meaning and connection to place” for outdoors recreationists.

One mineral, honeycomb calcite, is a mystical stone found only in Utah’s high Uinta mountains.

Legend dictates that cultivating this “powerful and romantic wishing stone calms the mind and body and manifests the owner’s desires,” says Lindsey, who sells the stone in various forms. She adds that honeycomb calcite is now the official Utah State stone.

Continued on p. 26

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Continued from p. 24

Comfort and Cheer People love receiving small things when the giver says, “This made me think of you,” confirms Lindsay Niederhauser, store manager at The Store’s Wonderland (4695 Holladay Blvd., Holladay, 801-938-9802).

Wonderland sells local jewelry, such as colorful beaded Stax bracelets, Katie Waltman necklaces and earrings, and Made by Mary necklaces, including chokers, chains, pendants and lockets.

Other stocking stuffers Niederhauser suggests include hair clips and accessories, small satin pillowcases, and old-fashioned Red Button and Hammond’s seasonal candies. Wonderland also features 100% glycerin soap from The Soap Lady (502 W. 8360 South, 385-645-4095, thesoaplady.net), a Utah family business that began in 1996.

“Our most popular products are bath bombs, soap slices and shower steamers,” says Soap Lady general manager Kalena Delliskave. “With our sugar scrubs, you start with a whipped soap base and add sugar for a gentle exfoliation. Once the sugar dissolves, you have a creamy body wash made with coconut oil, Vitamin E and aloe vera oil.”

Tabula Rasa (Trolley Square, 602 E. 500 South, Ste. D124, SLC, 801-575-5043, tabularasastationers.com) opened in 1985 selling writing implements and paper.

While pens and pencils remain fun stocking stuffers from Tabula Rasa today, store manager Eric Stewart explains that the store’s current Trolley Square location now offers many more small gifts than when they first opened. As one example, Tabula Rasa sells matchbox puzzles for $6.

“There are 15 mini puzzles, each in its little matchbox,” says Stewart. “They are top-notch and fun and make great little gifts.”

Tabula Rasa offers French hard candy “in interesting flavors like violet, rose honey and poppy,” says Stewart. Their European soaps feature unusual fragrances such as persimmon, red currant and basil lime mandarin.

“I think the thought that goes into a gift is more important than the monetary value,” says Stewart.

Continued on p. 28

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Cabin Fever

Shadow Breeze COURTESY PHOTO

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Retro Betty

Continued from p. 26

Blasts from the Past Retro Betty (2327 E. 3300 South, Millcreek, 801-467-2222, retrobettyslc.com) and Cabin Fever (Trolley Square, 801-363-0828) are treasure troves of retro gifts that bring back happy memories and create present-day fun. Nostalgic stocking stuffers, especially vintage ones, give off a good feeling, says Amanda Parrish, owner of Retro Betty.

Her top 2023 seller is a Santaur ornament—a Santa with a centaur body. Her ornament inventory includes Harry Styles, Post Malone and George Michael ornaments. Feel free to accompany these with Retro Betty’s old-fashioned plug-in bubble lights.

The store sells cocktail napkins with snarky sayings—like “Merry Christmas, Bitches!”—and has a hilarious assortment of gum in boxes with phrases such as “How about a pack of ‘shut the hell up?’” and “Get along with your co-workers.”

If you open the back cover of a comic book from the 1970s or ‘80s and read the advertising there, you might see the fun retro items Cabin Fever sells today.

There are pet rocks, mood rings, hand buzzers, candy necklaces, Silly Putty, sea monkeys and lava lamps. They have eight flavors of Lip Lickers, a lip balm from the 1970s.

Cabin Fever also sells mini-versions of toys from the past, such as Stretch Armstrong and the Operation game.

“We have a huge array of blown glass ornaments and humorous socks,” says David Owens, an employee. “One woman’s sock says, ‘I will support you like an underwire bra.’” He adds that all Cabin Fever merchandise—from the mood lipstick to the red Fortune Teller Fish that bends in your hand—is hand-curated by employees within the store.

“Thoughtful gifting allows you to build and strengthen the important relationships in your life,” says Matt Graham, co-founder of Shadow Breeze (695 N. Kays Drive, Ste. 5, Kaysville, 844- 994-4387, shadowbreeze.com), a corporate and consumer gifting company focused on gift design and personalization. “Often, the sentiment behind the gift matters more than the gift itself.”

Stocking stuffers are undersize, usually inexpensive presents that fill the “this made me think of you” list. Their description varies among many adjectives; some are humorous, some are cute and some are useful.

Whatever their genre, they’ll make your giftee’s days a bit happier even after the holiday season is over. CW

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DECEMBER 7, 2023 | 29

Self Care Gift yourself with a peaceful feeling by keeping family stress to a minimum during the holidays.

COURTESY PHOTO

—Brent Pace

BY CAROLYN CAMPBELL comments@cityweekly.net

W

“Take time to play those peekaboo games with your grandchild and read simple picture books.”

—Cheryl Wright COURTESY PHOTO

e all have Christmas dreams.

We imagine a house adorned with seasonal decor, a gorgeous tree with gifts that fill our children and grandchildren with joy, a table full of delicious food, and the leisure to relax and make memories.

But excitement about celebrating the winter holidays is often tempered by a secret, underlying fear: “How will we ever survive another family party?”

Along with the demands of attending events, buying gifts and decorating the home is the expectation that we will spend quality time with relatives. Maybe we think our family experiences more conflict than others, assuming that every other family is perfect. “We often compare our ‘inside’ reality with their apparent ‘outside’ perfection,” says Brent Pace, a local psychotherapist.

Though your family may appear to be the only one that experiences seasonal strife, Pace said “the truth is, we are all like that, and many families have meltdowns at this time of year.”

He and other experts suggest various tips for surviving the holidays and keeping your family on an even keel during this stressful season.

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“There’s often an unspoken goal of making this Christmas better than last year and living up to previous traditions.”

Set Realistic Expectations The holidays are a time of high expectations and tension, according to Pace. “There’s often an unspoken goal of making this Christmas better than last year and living up to previous traditions,” he said. “We need to realize that we are not here to try to outspend each other or show each other our love through the gifts we give. We can lower our expectations and realize that everything doesn’t have to be picture-perfect. Particularly considering the current financial crisis, rather than seeking the perfect meal, outfit, and Santa, we can decide that our goal is to spend time with the people we love and enjoy each other’s company.”

Take Care of Yourself During the holidays, while taking care of everybody and everything else, take a few minutes daily to take care of yourself, too. “Whatever it takes–a few minutes alone, a manicure, a walk, a haircut, exercise with a friend, a bubble bath or reading a chapter or two of a good book—a few minutes to yourself every day will make all the difference for everyone,” said Sherri Caldwell, founder of rebelhousewife.com.

Simplify Your Schedule

Take a step back when you need to, and feel free to say “no” when you sense you are overbooking your schedule, Pace said. “Celebrating doesn’t mean you need to abuse your body. You can also plan how much you will eat or drink at the party.”

Simplifying expectations and demands helps parents and grandparents keep quality time a priority during the hectic holidays, said Cheryl Wright, as associate professor at the University of Utah.

“Christmas is a time to drop all the todo lists. Do half of what you anticipate you will do,” she said. “Take time to play those peekaboo games with your grandchild and read simple picture books.”

Continued on p. 32

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Continued from p. 30

Let Things Happen The holidays may feel sad, lonely and isolated because of an “anniversary reaction,” Pace said. “If someone passed away during the holidays, they can remain a grim reminder.”

Because of this potential sadness, Pace advises being gentle to both yourself and to your family members.

“Sometimes, we only get to see certain family members once a year,” he said.

“If this is that time, spend time just talking rather than concentrating on the perfect pumpkin pie.”

Set a Positive Tone Offering compliments is a great way to set the tone for a family gathering, Pace said. “Always look for the positive.”

He adds that humor is an excellent tool to keep people at ease. He also suggests remembering that a family gathering is a rare occasion that may never occur again.

“We can remind ourselves that we chose to be here and want to be with our family,” he said. “Think thoughts such as—’this could be the last time I get to have this experience,’ or ‘This may be the last year I get to be with my sister.’”

Lose Battles to Win Wars The holidays are a time to take the high road, Pace said. “If we are competitive and have sibling rivalry, this isn’t a bad time to set those disagreements aside and agree to disagree,” he said. “You are better off at the end of the night if you keep the peace rather than getting engaged in conflict and heated discussions when all holiday pressures come to bear.”

The holidays may bring people together who are on different sides of the political aisle, or who have differing opinions on child-rearing. “We don’t have to go to every fight we’re invited to,” Pace said.

He suggests avoiding the words “always,” “never,” and “ever.”

“These are fighting terms in relationships generally—a way of throwing down the gauntlet.” Instead, Pace advises the use of “I feel” messages to talk about our views and feelings. “That way, we own a statement,” he said. “It’s ours, and we aren’t accusing the other person of causing the problem.”

Continued on p. 34

Ne w &

32 | DECEMBER 7, 2023

NEW RELEASE ROUND UP Olivia Rodrigo Sparkle Horse Linda Ronstadt

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“You are better off at the end of the night if you keep the peace rather than getting engaged in conflict and heated discussions when all holiday pressures come to bear.”

—social worker Brent Pace

tues-sat 12-6pm 157 e 900 s 801.532.4413

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Offer Yourself an Escape

Use the “buddy system” to ask your spouse or another family member to help stave off potential arguments by facilitating your escape. “If they see you getting upset or red in the face, they can pull you aside and remind you that it’s not worth it to get mad,” Pace said, “that you’ve had that issue for seven years, and it isn’t going to get resolved tonight.”

If your buddy sees you in the middle of an argument, code words or phrases like “we left that package out in the car,” can be useful to allow yourself out of a situation, Pace said. “Then you both walk out to the car together.”

He added that every house has a sanctuary—the bathroom. “If you find yourself in an argument or need to get your wits about yourself, you can always go to that place, lock the door and regroup,” he said. “You can remind yourself of what matters.”

Consider a Short Visit

If you are planning to visit a family member and expect the experience to be a little risky because of tension or conflict, shorten the visit in advance, Pace advised. “Rather than going to dinner together, say something to indicate that the available time is limited, such as ‘we have to be across town in an hour,’” he said.

“Keeping the visit shorter instantly decreases the chance of a problem. CW

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34 | DECEMBER 7, 2023

Continued from p. 32

Never Disciple Someone Else’s Children

Although this advice sounds obvious, Pace said it’s amazing how many family fights he’s seen when this happens. “If the kids are obnoxious, let the parents take care of it.”

Consider Helping Others

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With the increased number of foreclosures and homeless people, there are more Utahns than ever who could use help during the holiday season. Some of Pace’s family members have chosen to avoid competitive and expensive gift-giving by volunteering at the homeless shelter in recent years. “Instead of worrying about just the right tree and the right lights,” he said, “we choose to find a family that we can help out.”

Give the Grandchildren a Break

Caldwell said that if grandchildren or other extended family members are staying with you for a few days during the holidays, give yourself and the kids a break and turn on the TV. She suggested that grandparents pop a bag of popcorn and snuggle up with the kids for quality holiday time.

“It’s the only time of year that TV stations play the wholesome family classics such as Frosty the Snowman and The Grinch almost 24 hours daily,” she said. “If you don’t have them on video or DVD, get them.” CW

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36 | DECEMBER 7, 2023

Rewind Volume 16: 1999 to 2000 years of

salt lake

CITY WEEKLY

BY WES LONG wlong@cityweekly.net

A

new millennium dawned upon the world during City Weekly’s 16th year, and with it came beginnings and endings of all kinds.

The Trax light rail system debuted for the public to a largely positive response while the Gilgal Sculpture Garden (749 E. 500 South) was saved from a condo developer. And thanks to a bill from then-state Rep. Duane Bourdeaux, Utah finally recognized Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Bill and Nada’s Cafe (formerly at 479 S. 600 East) closed after a 53-year run, and the ZCMI department store was dissolved into a St. Louis-based retail operation after 131 years; ZCMI’s historic Tiffin Room restaurant would not be too far behind. On the other hand, taco stands began regularly congregating on 800 South between Main and State, a beloved tradition that continues to this day.

Utah lawmakers created the muchderided post of Obscenity and Pornography Complaints Ombudsman (or “Porn Czar”); Orrin Hatch’s presidential run fizzled; and an F2 tornado blew through Salt Lake City, leaving one person dead, more than 70 injured and numerous homes and trees damaged.

Mitt Romney was brought in from the East to lead the Salt Lake Organizing Committee and put a new spin on the scandal-ridden Olympics effort, although claims of privilege and steep prices for public document requests somewhat belied his claims of organizational openness.

Bringing attention to all of these

happenings was the staff at City Weekly, which was experiencing beginnings and endings of their own. Award-winning editorial cartoonist Mark Pett and contributor Karen Denton both bade their farewells. Kevin Jacobsen, meanwhile, began writing a column for “Web.runner” and the paper debuted its first annual literary issue.

And speaking of introductions, a weekly photo began running of developer Earl Holding’s blighted 10 acres of parking lot on 400 South and Main, which the Olympic Committee was paying to leave vacant for the 2002 Olympics. It would be a recurring sight in the paper until January 3, 2002.

“You can count on us to be the Official Olympic Monitor of the Quasi Official Parking Lot of the 2002 Winter Olympics,” John Saltas cracked on Sept. 9. Such an august urban feature warranted ongoing coverage not only because it was a pathetic replacement for old landmarks like the Terrace Ballroom and the Newhouse Hotel, but because it typified the ugliness and lack of vision that private greed had produced in public life. Even in this ongoing exercise in wise-acreage, public service and love for the state were the motivators.

“Sure, we spend a lot of time dwelling on issues of importance—what some people might call bad news,” remarked the editors on Oct. 28. “But it’s our job, in part, to focus on unfairness, inequity and abuse. That doesn’t mean there’s nothing more to our fair city and state.”

Remembering Vol. 16: In the holster

In the wake of recent shootings—and exemplified by a chilling note attached to a .357 bullet that was left at a City Weekly news rack for the paper’s publishers—guns were a repeated subject of debate and conversation throughout City Weekly’s 16th year, particularly when it came to their presence in such public spaces as schools.

“In poll after poll, close to 90 percent of Utahns favor keeping concealed weapons out of public schools,” noted Ben Fulton on June 3. “Gov. Mike Leavitt has said he supports such a ban. Even the LDS church has decried the ‘bunker mentality’ that accompanies a proliferation of guns in society.

Yet, despite repeated attempts to limit concealed weapons, members of the Utah Legislature see nothing wrong with packing a little heat into Utah schools—or churches, for that matter.”

Fulton pointed out that the lobbying and money of gun groups like the NRA vastly outweighed that of gun control groups and filled the coffers of many local and national elected officials.

Examples of this on the Utah front included then-representatives Chris Cannon, Jim Hansen, Merrill Cook and state senator Michael Waddoups, the latter of whom was responsible for a 1995 law easing restrictions on concealed-weapon permits. Rob Bishop, a former Utah House Speaker and thenchairman of the state’s Republican Party was simultaneously acting as a paid lobbyist for the state’s NRA affili-

ate, the Utah Shooting Sports Council.

“Utah’s gun law remains foolproof,” Fulton wrote. “Instead of putting limits on where concealed-weapon permit carriers may take their weapons, legislators instead talk about installing special gun lockers at Olympic game venues and mental health centers.”

Students at the University of Utah as well as Bountiful High put forward efforts to organize against guns in their schools, and the state school board even joined a coalition petitioning to get the gun issue on the ballot.

The issue festers to this day and in recent years, lawmakers have passed so-called “constitutional carry” legislation, ending the requirement that a gun owner obtain a permit to conceal their weapon.

“In these days of hot debate over gun ownership rights,” John Saltas editorialized on May 25, 2000, “one mindless person actually uttered words to this effect when asked about kids accidentally shooting kids: To protect our gun rights, some sacrifices have to be made. That is so patently offensive, it defies rebuttal. … It’s not the liberals whom gun owners have to worry about; it’s the derelict and irresponsible members of their own ranks. We’ve ‘sacrificed’ enough children.”

In the ads

“The Tower Theatre is under new ownership!” declared a notice on Jan. 27, 2000. Featuring renovations to its lobby, auditorium and sound systems, the theater was finding new life under Continued on p, 38

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Continued from p. 36

the ownership of Paul Liacopoulos and the management of Brooke Harper after periods of dormancy.

A consolidation of the older Blue Mouse and Cinema in Your Face! theaters by owner Greg Tanner (see Vol. 5), the Tower was virtually the only showing place for foreign and independent fare before such venues as Broadway Centre Cinema and Brewvies came onto the scene. It remains a beloved jewel in the Salt Lake Film Society (SLFS) crown.

“We have computerized our video rentals,” added the Tower’s proprietors at the time. “If you have ‘permanently rented’ videos, we know who you are!” Patrons had until Feb. 4 to return their overdue acquisitions, “no questions asked.”

As of this writing, this treasured, single-screen venue is under renovation once more. If you still have “permanently rented” videos from the Tower on hand, however, questions may rightly be asked.

In the fray

Civil rights battles continued to rage for Utah’s LGBTQ population on a variety of fronts between 1999 and 2000.

As can be expected, there were highs and lows and questionable institutional behavior.

For instance, the Utah Division of Child and Family Services (DCFS) instituted a new policy that stopped any same-sex couples from adopting

children by working only with single persons and those legally married.

The Utah Legislature—with the support of Gov. Mike Leavitt—then passed bills that duplicated the DCFS policy and took it even further by forbidding unmarried couples from adopting through either state foster care or private agencies.

Another source of pain was the active involvement of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in such anti-gay efforts as California’s Proposition 22, which rewrote state law to recognize only heterosexual marriage.

“Certainly, Mormons are within their rights to preach any religious beliefs they would like,” stated a “Miss” in the Hits & Misses column on July 15. “But when they step into the political arena, they leave themselves open for criticism, like everyone else in politics.”

Encouraging its members to raise funds for the passage of Proposition 22, church officials were building on efforts with similar initiatives in Alaska and Hawaii. When the church’s encouragement for these anti-gay measures became known, some Utahns protested with signs in front of the church’s downtown office tower.

Coupled with the church’s support of the Boy Scouts of America’s ongoing court battle seeking to legally discriminate against gay New Jersey scout James Dale, this was another instance of a powerful institution forgetting its responsibility to its people.

“In our view, society would be best served by encouraging gays and lesbians to pursue committed monogamous relationships,” wrote Gary and Millie Watts in a July 29 letter. “Creating legal obstacles to such relationships will continue to make it difficult for them to form their own family units. It will also continue to negatively impact every family with a loved gay or lesbian member. It seems ironic to us that an institution supporting ‘the family’ would take a public policy position that tears at the very fabric of every family with a gay or lesbian member and denies the right of this small minority to form their own families.”

The Wattses—devout Mormons and parents of two gay children—were Grand Marshals to the 1999 Pride parade in Salt Lake alongside actor Dan Butler. They later won a “Best of Utah” for their positive standard. “Gary and Millie serve as wonderful examples for both the gay and straight communities of what real Christian values are all about,” declared a June 17 “Hit.”

In the voting booth

After the number of Salt Lake City mayoral candidates narrowed to two, the folks at the Deseret News sought to ensure the ultimate victor would be morally squeaky-clean. To the more cynical observer, it appeared to be a bid to delineate the practicing Latter-day Saint Stuart Reid from the non-LDS Ross “Rocky” Anderson.

Compiled by the staff of then-DNews editor John Hughes, a list of 31 questions were sent to the two mayoral candidates, including such probing inquiries as “Have you ever had a charge of sexual harassment made against you” and “Have you ever committed adultery and/or conceived a child out of wedlock?”

Anderson provided answers to the questionnaire, Reid refused to answer, and both were appalled.

Presented with such a ripe occasion for parody, the puckish people at Salt Lake City Weekly penned their own queries entitled “31 Flavors of Inquisition.” The following are a sample of their Oct. 28 survey: Question No. 4: “Do you own a pet named Orrin? Why not? Was that pet conceived out of wedlock?”

Question No. 11: “In detail, intimate detail, detail so intimate it will cause loins to burn like the sun-side of Mercury, describe your most recent lap dance.”

Question No. 17: “To increase affordable housing downtown, do you agree or disagree with the Earl Holding plan to allow people who park in his Olympic parking lot to sleep in their cars?”

Question No. 24: “How do you best describe John Hughes’ Deseret News? A. The Jerry Springer Show without boobs.

B. The Oprah Winfrey Show without tears. C. The Salt Lake Tribune without guilt. D. The City Weekly without 900 numbers.” CW

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A Goodie Bag for Foodies

tles like a meat temperature probe and an easy user interface, Traeger grills are great options for anyone compelled to drop everything and cook at a moment’s notice.

BY ALEX SPRINGER comments@cityweekly.net @captainspringer

W

For the Griller on the Go

For the Discerning Snacker

Mushroom Grow Kits from Fungal Focus (fungalfocusutah.com) Growing one’s own food has become a lot easier in recent years, and one of the most fascinating ways to take advantage of this hobby is with a mushroom grow kit. There are plenty of these sold online, but Fungal Focus is an organization local to Utah that offers grow kits, CSAs and even full soil plans for those with a bit of space on their hands.

If this is your first time hearing about a mushroom grow kit, they’re perfect for that person in your life who likes the weird biological process behind food production. It’s essentially a pre-packaged kit of recycled and organic materials; Fungal Focus uses stuff like recycled paper, coffee chaff and organic oats. All the owner needs to do is keep this growing medium properly watered, and there will be some cute little Lions Mane mushrooms sprouting in no time.

Regardless of who is on your shopping list, here’s hoping you got a few nice ideas for the upcoming holidays. Take care and stay safe out there, dear readers. CW

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DECEMBER 7, 2023 | 41

Caputo’s Culture Club Subscription (caputos.com) It’s always a pleasure to visit Caputo’s and let your senses guide you to some of the finest groceries, chocolates and cheeses in town. But what about the discerning snacker who wants Caputo’s to come to them? It may seem like a tall order, but Caputo’s has this great Culture Club Subscription Program that

For the Foodie WhoWants to Eat Their Chia Pet

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Portable Grills from Traeger (traeger.com) College football and grilled meats will always pair well, but the uses of a portable grill are myriad in Utah. We have plenty of great picnic and camping spots, and one of Traeger’s portable grills isn’t a bad choice for a backyard barbecue. If you know someone who is selective about when and where they want to break out the grill and get some burgers going, Traeger’s selection of portable wood-pellet grills are excellent options.

You’ve got the Tailgater Grill that offers 300 square inches of grilling space— that’s enough for two whole chickens, pal—and comes with collapsible legs for easy transport and setup. For something a bit smaller that also has the advantage of looking like a security-reinforced briefcase, there’s the Ranger Grill. It’s a good, compact option for grilling right on the tailgate, or whatever other flat surfaces you might find in the wilderness.

With all kinds of cool bells and whis-

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ith the holidays fast approaching, it’s time to consider what that foodie in your social circle would like to get in their stocking. Since I love all y’all, I’ve put together a gift list that should cover foodies of every stripe—from the beerlover to the tailgater—and it’s all merrily local. Read on, and may your gift-giving be well-received.

This national organization that celebrates local breweries found within each of our country’s modern metropolises came to Utah a few years back, and it’s excellent. I booked a tour soon after I started drinking beer as part of a guided exploration into the ancient practice of brewing, and it was an eye-opening experience.

For starters, the itinerary is planned depending on the package you want— there are some where you just go and try different beer from each brewery on the docket, and others that pair the experience with tasty eats. Once you’ve booked your package, just show up at the pickup spot, where a comfy sprinter van will take you from location to location. The guides are beer- and brewery-lovers themselves, so you can expect a good bit of beercentric conversation as your beer-fueled journey progresses.

Each brewery visit features some Q&A with one of the brewers, as they present a few different craft beer options during your visit. From a new beer-drinker’s perspective, this is not only a great time to try a lot of different brews, but also to ask what “IPA” stands for.

Burgers so good they’ll blow your mind!

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This year’s lovingly curated gift For the Novitiate Beer Drinker Brew Tours guide for that food nerd in your life. City (citybrewtours.com/salt-lake-city/)

boxes up a series of seasonal snacks and sends them right to your door every other month.

One of the tricky things about being someone who thinks about snacks with both their brain and their tummy is knowing when to draw the line—which is why letting the food nerds at Caputo’s put a bi-monthly box together is so cool.

Not only are you getting to try a bunch of new, tasty items, but you know they’ve been hand-selected by a cerebral snack enthusiast every bit as discerning as the recipient. Some of the options in the current box include some pistachio halva, a bar of Mirzam Dark Chocolate with orange and cinnamon, a serving of Olympia Provisions Catechino Cheese and some Barnacle Alaskan Spruce Tip Jelly.

Level Crossing Brewing Co., POST 550 So. 300 West #100, SLC LevelCrossingBrewing.com On Tap: Fruit Bat on Nitro

A list of what local craft breweries and cider houses have on tap this week 2 Row Brewing 6856 S. 300 West, Midvale 2RowBrewing.com Avenues Proper 376 8th Ave, SLC avenuesproper.com On Tap: Midnight Especial- Dark Mexican Lager Bewilder Brewing 445 S. 400 West, SLC BewilderBrewing.com On Tap: ESB - English Amber Bohemian Brewery 94 E. Fort Union Blvd, Midvale BohemianBrewery.com Bonneville Brewery 1641 N. Main, Tooele BonnevilleBrewery.com On Tap: Peaches and Cream Ale

Desert Edge Brewery 273 Trolley Square, SLC DesertEdgeBrewery.com On Tap: La Playa-Mexican Style lager Epic Brewing Co. 825 S. State, SLC EpicBrewing.com On Tap: 2023 Big Bad Baptist BarrelAged Imperial Stout Variants 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

Chappell Brewing 2285 S Main Street Salt Lake City, UT 84115 Hopkins Brewing Co. chappell.beer 1048 E. 2100 South, SLC On Tap: WarPig - Cascadian Dark Ale HopkinsBrewingCompany.com On Tap: Irish Red Craft by Proper 1053 E. 2100 So., SLC Kiitos Brewing craftbyproper.com 608 W. 700 South, SLC On Tap: Purple Rain - Marionberry KiitosBrewing.com Helles

42 | DECEMBER 7, 2023

Moab Brewing 686 S. Main, Moab TheMoabBrewery.com On Tap: Golden Sprocket Wit Mountain West Cider 425 N. 400 West, SLC MountainWestCider.com On Tap: Wet Hopped - Infused with Cascade and Citra Hops

Proper Brewing Moab 1393 US-191 Moab, Utah 84532 On Tap: Angus McCloud- Scottish Ale

Second Summit Cider 4010 So. Main, Millcreek https://secondsummitcider.com On Tap: Pear Pink Peppercorn & Tarragon Cider

Stratford Proper 1588 Stratford Ave., SLC stratfordproper.com On Tap: Yacht Rock Juice Box Juicy IPA

Red Rock Brewing 254 So. 200 West RedRockBrewing.com On Tap: Gypsy Scratch

Shades Brewing 154 W. Utopia Ave, South Salt Lake ShadesBrewing.beer On Tap: Slim Shady Gluten Friendly Light Ale Live Music: Thursdays

TF Brewing 936 S. 300 West, SLC TFBrewing.com On Tap: Dunkel Lager

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

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

RoHa Brewing Project 30 Kensington Ave, SLC RoHaBrewing.com On Tap: Crisper Drawer Golden Ale

Ogden Beer Company 358 Park Blvd, Ogden OgdenRiverBrewing.com On Tap: Injector Hazy IPA

Roosters Brewing Multiple Locations RoostersBrewingCo.com On Tap: Identity Crisis Session West Coast Hazy Cold IPA – the name says it all!

Policy Kings Brewery 223 N. 100 West, Cedar City PolicyKingsBrewery.com Prodigy Brewing 25 W Center St. Logan Prodigy-brewing.com On Tap: Cached Out Hefeweisen -- Now available to go!

Proper Brewing 857 S. Main, SLC ProperBrewingCo.com On Tap: Whispers from Krakatoa - Helles Lager with Habanero and Mango Proper Burger: Sour Ranger Blackberry and Lemon Sour

SaltFire Brewing 2199 S. West Temple, South Salt Lake SaltFireBrewing.com On Tap: Deep Dive Series - Rice Lager Draft Salt Flats Brewing 2020 Industrial Circle, SLC SaltFlatsBeer.com On Tap: Oktoberfest Vienna Lager Scion Cider Bar 916 Jefferson St W, SLC Scionciderbar.com On Tap: Snowcapped Gold Rush 6.5% ABV

Shades On State 366 S. State Street SLC Shadesonstate.com On Tap: Hellion Blond Ale, an ode to Ellie, manager at Shades on State Karaoke: Wednesdays Silver Reef 4391 S. Enterprise Drive, St. George StGeorgeBev.com Squatters Pub Brewery / Salt Lake Brewing Co. 147 W. Broadway, SLC saltlakebrewingco.com/squatters On Tap: Salt Lake Brewing Co’s Batch European Vacation Pilsner Squatters and Wasatch Brewery 1763 So 300 West SLC UT 84115 Utahbeers.com On Tap: Tree Beard IPA w Fresh Spruce Tips and Simcone, Citra & Ekeanot Hops Strap Tank Brewery, Lehi 3661 Outlet Pkwy, Lehi, UT StrapTankBrewery.com On Tap: Wake-Up Call Coffee Stout.

Collab with KBER 101 and Kings Peak coffee.

Strap Tank Brewery, Springville 596 S 1750 W, Springville, UT StrapTankBrewery.com On Tap: Bananza Hefeweizen

Talisman Brewing Co. 1258 Gibson Ave, Ogden TalismanBrewingCo.com On Tap: Witches Brew Top of Main Brewing 250 Main, Park City, Utah saltlakebrewingco.com/wasatch On Tap: Utah Beer - An American Lager Uinta Brewing 1722 S. Fremont Drive, SLC UintaBrewing.com On Tap: Was Angeles Craft Beer UTOG 2331 Grant Ave, Ogden UTOGBrewing.com On Tap: Golden Grant 5% ABV. Vernal Brewing 55 S. 500 East, Vernal VernalBrewing.com Wasatch Brew Pub 2110 S. Highland Drive, SLC saltlakebrewingco.com/wasatch On Tap: Wasatch Salt Lime Cerveza Zion Brewery 95 Zion Park Blvd, Springdale ZionBrewery.com Zolupez 205 W. 29th Street #2, Ogden Zolupez.com

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Level Crossing Brewing Co. 2496 S. West Temple, S. Salt Lake LevelCrossingBrewing.com On Tap: Vienna Style Lager

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emplin Family - Wavy Boi: This new hazy IPA features Superdelic, CryoSuperdelic, Starata, Nelson Savin and Motueka hops. The look is pale yellowgold with mild haze (though totally opaque) and a wonderful head of eggshell foam, especially considering the ABV, featuring wonderful lacing and creaminess. The coloring may not be TF’s most attractive, but the overall visual experience remains top notch; they flat-out make outstanding-looking ales and lagers.

Now that I’ve gotten to enjoy the portfolio of different TF beers, this one brings both familiar and unique notes.

The distinctive yeast and Juicy Fruit personality are there, along with bright pineapple, lemon-lime and muddled tropical fruit. But here there are also strong notes of apricot, peach, pear and musky white grape, with a nice herbal and floral note at the end. A little piney resin lingers throughout, which is wonderful. In keeping with other TF beers, the aroma profile isn’t huge and overwhelming—unlike most modern hazies—but instead somewhat delicate and extremely well-layered.

That flows into the taste profile, as well; if you gave this to a “haze bro” and didn’t tell them it was a TF beer, I guarantee you they would say it was solid but not spectacularly hazy. That’s just kind of where we are in the evolution of craft beer, and specifically IPAs. Honestly, there’s a part of me that understands, but what’s really remarkable about TF’s stuff is how well-crafted they are. They may not be huge, but the nuances and notes they squeeze out of their beers are pretty remarkable.

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T

ki

Appearances can be deceiving when it comes to holiday cheer.

Verdict: This is just a damn good beer—packed full of massive citrus flavor, with wonderful tropical accents. It’s on the lighter side, ridiculously drinkable, but not sacrificing flavor or feel whatsoever. It’s just so well-done. This would be a fantastic summer day-atthe-beach drinker, and a fine example of what simplicity can accomplish, while remaining interesting and unique. Excellent.

RoHa - Brewers Select [Twelve Twenty One]: This coffee stout was made with beans from Midway Coffee. It pours a dark fizzy head that attempts to rise up, but fades fairly quickly due to the oils from the beans. The nose brings lots of black malts and roast—some roasted malt out front, with a hint of char, as well as a hint of espresso and fresh roasted coffee beans, and a mild black malt aroma. Then some cocoa appears, dark caramel and fudge-y cocoa plus something resembling dark-chocolatecovered coffee beans The taste brings more roast and coffee to start, a little black malt and faint acrid roast with a touch of a burnt coffee.

There is some fresh-roasted coffee and a bit of espresso, but a bit more bitter and acrid as opposed to the nose. You do get some charred malts and black malt, with touches of cocoa and super-bitter dark chocolate, but not a lot this time, either.

Mild creamy chocolate and a touch of fudge flavor follow, then hops kick in, earthy, spicy hops, that start fairly bitter and get very bitter on the finish. Mouthfeel is medium- to heavy-bodied, light on the carbonation.

Verdict: It has a great nose, while the taste had some good aspects but dropped off on the cocoa and fudge while increasing the roasty, slightly-burnt notes and bitterness. It has great characters, and was tasty in general. The lighter CO2 helps to make it creamier, and therefore a more pleasant experience overall.

Now that we’re into December you’ll probably want some full-flavored beers, and these will fit the bill nicely. Once you’ve filed up on the dark and rich, the tropical and fruity will be a good boomerang for the palate. Both are available in 16-ounce cans at their respective breweries. As always, cheers! CW

Hop

MIKE RIEDEL

Attractive Opposites

MIKE RIEDEL

NERD

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44 | DECEMBER 7, 2023

the

BACK BURNER

BY ALEX SPRINGER |

@captainspringer

Chez Nibs Opens

If you told me that the closure of Les Madeleines would give Chef Romina Rasmussen time to open not one but two exciting new ventures, perhaps the initial sting wouldn’t have been as sharp. Yes, in addition to Xiao Bao Bao—which Chef Rasmussen opened with brothers Dwight and Derrick Yee—we now have Chez Nibs (212 E. 500 South, Ste. A, 801-673-8340). Chez Nibs is a chocolate and confections shop named after Chef Rasmussen’s late kitty, and the location will resurrect Rasmussen’s famous kouign amann. This new shop will operate alongside Xiao Bao Bao, which gives me an excuse to see just how well some fancy chocolates pair with a few freshly-steamed bao.

Gibson Lounge Holiday Pop-up

Back in October, I had the chance to check out the spooky transformation of The Gibson Girl Lounge inside The Grand American Hotel (555 S. Main Street, grandamerica.com), but the holidays are a-changing. This month, The Gibson Lounge has received a vintage makeover as it launches its Classic Christmas event. In a similar spirit as the lounge’s eerie October cousin, guests can expect to see some cool holiday decor along with a few signature cocktails and menu items to mark the occasion. In keeping with the vintage holiday vibes, guests are also encouraged to wear their own vintage Christmas attire. The event will be bringing yuletide merriment until Dec. 31.

Crack Shack Packs Up

Remember when all those Crack Shacks opened up all at once? Yeah, they’re all closing, and will be replaced with locations of Houston TX Hot Chicken (hhc.com). This news comes on the heels of Savory Restaurant Fund’s recent investment in the Las Vegas-based fried chicken franchise, which already has a location in Lehi’s Traverse Mountain shopping center. It’s an interesting chapter in the local theater of the nation’s fried-chicken wars, and we’re looking forward to seeing what this does to the fried-chicken micro-economy that has become a generous portion of our local dining scene. For all you fried chicken fans out there: What a time to be alive.

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REVIEW No False Notes Bradley Cooper’s Maestro avoids biopic sameness in favor of electrifying audacity.

BY MARYANN JOHANSON comments@cityweekly.net

B

Carey Mulligan and Bradley Cooper in Maestro

NETFLIX

radley Cooper’s first feature as cowriter and director, 2018’s A Star Is Born, was a marvel: passionate, intoxicating, enrapturing. His second, Maestro, made me feel exactly the same way. It’s rare for a movie to move me, to rivet and electrify me like Maestro did.

There’s a breathtaking boldness—arrogance, even—at work in here, even more so than with A Star Is Born, which was already bursting with Cooper’s immense confidence as a filmmaker. Certainly, there are other filmmakers working today who can legitimately be slapped with the label “egotistical,” even “narcissistic”—there’s a reason why the term “fauxteur” had to be invented—but Cooper gets away with it.

Runs away with it. And doesn’t make you— okay, me—hate him for it.

Maestro is nominally a biopic docudrama, but doesn’t feel like any biopic docudrama I’ve seen before. I didn’t know much about classical-music composer and orchestral conductor Leonard Bernstein before this, and I didn’t learn much about him in this movie, and that’s okay! “It’s not a documentary!” is the usual reminder when some folks complain about omissions or elisions in movie depictions of real people.

Cooper and co-screenwriter Josh Singer have leaned into that, so much so that they’re not even pretending to be documentary-ish. The way they tell Bernstein’s story here is immersive—like, we are there for Bernstein’s professional and personal life in postwar America—but also impres-

sionistic, like nothing is explained for us and we just let it flow over us.

There’s one brief mention, for instance, of a friend called Jerry—and only later is it clear, oh, that was Jerome Robbins, director/producer/choreographer of West Side Story, for which Bernstein wrote the music. Maybe there’s a brief passing mention of Stephen Sondheim, who wrote the lyrics for that production? I can’t really recall. But anyone hoping for a box-ticking who’s-who of Bernstein’s collaborators will be disappointed.

Instead, Cooper throws us straight into the deep end. Maestro is, sometimes literally but often figuratively, all rapid-fire party chat at a salon where the smart cultural set is hanging out in the NYC metro area, circa any time from the 1940s to the 1960s. Often the precise conversation eludes us, but we grasp what is going on: vital, energetic life, mostly of an intellectual sort, sometimes somewhat more earthy; there’s a bit of flirtation, a bit of sex, but even they are rooted in brainy creativity.

There’s lots of Bernstein’s music on the

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CINEMA

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soundtrack, but not much diegetic, actually heard in the context of the story being told. This is a tale less of one man’s creative output and more of what drove him artistically. A lot of that was love of the people around him, including his wife, socialite and actress Felicia Montealegre (Carey Mulligan). A lot of it was the love he had to sneak around for: Bernstein was gay, or at least bisexual, and wasn’t very good at pretending he wasn’t, no more than he had to publicly in those homophobic days.

I haven’t even mentioned that it’s Cooper portraying Bernstein, and he is sublime. A kerfuffle ensued when the first publicity photos of Cooper as Bernstein were released, showing him wearing a prosthetic nose that some characterized as “Jewface”; Bernstein was Jewish, and Cooper is not (though his own nose is pretty impressive!). This didn’t seem unfair at the time—the fake nose initially did come across as almost unnecessary— but in the context of the film itself, the nose works, or at least does not feel out of place. Nose notwithstanding, Cooper utterly disappears into the role to the point

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where he’s often unrecognizable, not just physically but deep-down soulfully. He seems to have taken onboard Bernstein’s unflappable confidence, and it is a delight to watch.

I’m not fluent in music-talk, but I feel like Bernstein’s compositions are eclectic, staccato and genre-defying, full of unexpected tonal shifts that nevertheless work. Maestro echoes its subject’s music.

There’s a visual and narrative freshness to this movie, a wonderful eccentricity, a delicious audacity. They’re all a kick in the pants to a mainstream cinema that has, in many ways, been feeling more and more moribund. I think this is a perfect movie, but I would also hope that those who don’t agree would at least recognize that it pushes boundaries in a way that we very much need right now. CW

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Holiday Gift Guide for Music Lovers Ideas for the music lover in your life

BY EMILEE ATKINSON eatkinson@cityweekly.net @emileelovesvinyl

H

ere we are once again—it’s the time of year where we scramble to find the right gift for our loved ones that shows just how much we care about them. Well, for most of us; some people shop months in advance, but this guide is for those people. This guide is for those who procrastinate a bit, but still want to get a great gift.

Fret not, here are plenty of suggestions for those in your life who love music.

Gift cards: I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: Gift cards are always a great option when you’re completely stumped on what to get someone. It may seem impersonal, but you can always put it in a thoughtful card, pair it with your person’s favorite treat or give it to them with the biggest hug you can muster. There’s no shortage of meaningful ways to give someone a gift card. This gives them the freedom to go ham and get something they really want without the pressure of asking for it, and without you having to worry about getting the wrong thing. It does help to put some thought into where the gift card is for, though. Amazon is usually a good bet for an all-purpose solution, but getting one for their favorite local music shop is a great option. If the giftee in question invests a lot in gear, or need repairs on instruments often, you can ask your local music shops if they offer gift cards. Or for those who love buying physical media like vinyl, CDs and cassettes, you can get gift cards for shops like Graywhale (Ogden, Taylorsville), Lav-

ender Vinyl (Ogden) or Randy’s Records (Salt Lake). Give yourself and your loved one the gift of freedom with a gift card for their favorite music-related place.

Household Items: If you have a loved one who is very into music, there’s a good chance they enjoy decorating their home with music-themed decor and other household items. Any item you can think of probably has a musical variation. Everything from mugs, to coasters, to notebooks, to blankets, even paperclips—if you can think of it, there’s a musical version of it. Amazon of course has a lot of items like this, but you can also check sites like Uncommon Goods, The Music Stand and even Walmart. Another great resource for unique, hand-crafted gifts is Etsy. Many small businesses post on Etsy, so while you may not be ordering from a small business in Utah specifically, you’ll still be ordering from someone who isn’t a big, multi-billion-dollar company—if that’s something you’re going for, anyway.

For Guitarists: Musicians play a wide variety of instruments, but the guitar is a pretty common one for people to pick up. So if you have a guitarist in your life, here are some great options if you’re not sure what to get for them. Most guitarists are pretty picky about their gear and what they like to use, especially when it comes to their guitar picks. However, if you think they may be feeling adventurous, you can get them a pick that’s made out of a unique material like wood, coins, or even stones.

If your favorite guitarist likes to have fun and be silly, you can also find a guitar pick stamp that allows them to punch a guitar pick shape out of any material that the punch is able to go through. Old credit card? Punch it. Expired library card? Punch it. Typically, it’s made to go through hard plastic, but why let that stop you? It’s a fun and cool experiment that never gets old!

For your new guitar player, it may be a good idea to get them access to lessons and materials that will help them learn the basics and open doors into the musical world.

MUSIC caption

Online options like Fender Play allow your guitar student to access lessons at home, but for some, in-person lessons are better for their learning style. Plenty of local musicians offer private lessons around town, and places like the Salt Lake Academy of Music (SLAM) offer lessons on a sliding scale fee. SLAM is committed to offering lessons to children and adults alike.

For Songwriters: If you have a more experienced musician in your life who spends a lot of time writing songs, there are a few options that might help them along the way. Writer’s block is real; writ-

ers of all types experience this, and music is no different. There are creative journals that give songwriters a space to keep ideas down, prompts that will help inspire them and give assurance that they’re not the only ones struggling to get something on the page. You can find songwriter’s journals on Amazon, Etsy, Uncommon Goods and sites like Peter Pauper Press.

Don’t let your holiday season shopping get you down—follow this guide for the music lovers in your life and you’ll be just fine! CW

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MUSIC PICKS

Chris Isaak @ Maverik Center 12/7

Chris Isaak has always come across as an amiable and easy-going fella. For one thing, he possessed that smooth croon, the kind better suited to an intimate late-night cabaret than the distant echoes of radio waves transmitted from afar. Songs such as “Wicked Game,” “Baby Did a Bad Bad Thing” and “Somebody’s Crying” had an obvious allure, a seductive and suggestive quality that gave him an intriguing and yet accessible persona. Likewise, his self-titled Showtime series furthered his image of being an open-minded, unassuming individual who had no qualms at all about taking advice from Mona, a nude half-mermaid who lay on her stomach on a revolving bed in the basement of the club that he would frequent. So while his side career as an actor in TV and film may have given him additional mystique, he still managed to come across as the same aw-shucks kinda guy that he generally seems to be elsewhere. And considering the fact that his current tour is billed as a festive holiday jaunt, there can be no doubt that his Everyman image will be affirmed that much more. There’s sure to be plenty of fun and festivities built into this particular show, guaranteeing that an evening with Isaak will be equally enjoyable—if not more so—than inevitable reruns of “It’s A Wonderful Life.” Chris Isaak brings his “It’s Almost Christmas Tour” with special guests The Shootouts to the Maverik Center on Thursday, Dec. 7 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $36 - $76.50 at ticketmaster.com (Lee Zimmerman)

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Our Heated n O p P U a y ti z o

Macy Gray

Live Music PRANA PR

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Macy Gray @ Commonwealth Room 12/8

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Macy Gray’s debut On How Life Is was a stunning record back in 1999, and it still stands the test of time. It’s got a great band feel to it, and the grooves remind me of ’70s boogie and soul. The eclectic Grammy winning singer/songwriter is starting fresh and hitting the road this year with The California Jet Club, her long-time touring band with whom she released The Reset earlier this year. “The record business, it’s a little chaotic, and so many things have to go right for a record to come out and get to the maximum where it should be,” Gray told The Repository in March. “I’ve just been a little unlucky with records and labels, and sometimes, I think in the long run, in the scope of my career, people will discover what I do more.” Some would say that Gray’s best days are behind her, and that she will forever be linked with that national day of tragedy when the Green Goblin sailed unimpeded through the Manhattan skyline at the World Unity Fair (Sam Raimi’s Spider-Man circa 2002.)

However, there is no voice in music quite like hers and she’s an intelligent song interpreter, totally devoid of all that rock ‘n roll BS. Cherry Thomas opens. Catch these acts at the Commonwealth Room on Friday, Dec. 8. Doors at 7 p.m., show at 8 p.m. Tickets for the 21+ show range from $85 for reserved platform to $42 for general admission, and can be found at axs.com (Mark Dago)

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MUSIC PICKS

Nick Sefakis @ Soundwell 12/10

Salt Lake City native Nick Sefakis—an American roots-reggae and hip-hop artist, producer and multi-instrumentalist— is probably best-known for his role as guitarist and vocalist in the band Iya Terra. But when the band went on an indefinite hiatus, Sefakis started playing more solo shows, and has continued to find success that way. Sefakis’ show this week kicks off an exciting series titled Reggae Rise Up, a lineup of incredible bands that bring those sweet, smooth reggae vibes. Sefakis released his debut album Foundation in 2020, and has been gathering thousands of fans and millions of streams since then. The artist has released plenty of his own singles, but he also collaborates with different artists who effectively complement his own sound and energy. While Sefakis has been touring plenty, this is his first headlining show in his hometown of SLC. For this show, Sefakis is backed by Eureka Sound, who will also be performing a set of their own. In addition, you’ll be able to catch Makisi and DJ Porch. If reggae is your thing, you don’t want to miss this show, and begin a habit of hitting a bunch of great shows over the next seven months, as there will be a Reggae Rise Up show each month from now until March 2024. Come check out Sefakis at his first hometown headlining show on Sunday, Dec. 10 at 7:45 p.m. Tickets for the 21+ show are listed for the oddly specific amount of $9.09, and can be found at soundwellslc.com. (EA)

Zakk Sabbath @ The Complex 12/11

Zakk Sabbath is more than just a cover band. I mean, sure, you can find them playing covers of epic metal classics, but there are a lot of layers to what this band is and who they are. Led by the fearless Zakk Wylde, this band was born from love and experience with metal. Having performed for Ozzy Osbourne for many years, Wylde took his talents to create several projects including Black Label Society, Pride & Glory, Steel Dragon, and of course, Zakk Sabbath. Wylde is joined by fellow veterans Blasko (Ozzy Osbourne, Rob Zombie) and Joey Castillo (Danzig, Queens of the Stone Age), who help create a tornado of face-melting riffs while performing well-known metal tracks. It may seem daunting at times to see cover bands, playing the same tracks you’ve heard a million times, but Zakk Sabbath isn’t one of those groups. This is a collection of dudes who have such a love and appreciation for this music that seeing them perform is like seeing them do it for the first time. They always come with insane energy and do the classics justice. Opening for Zakk Sabbath is up-and-coming American thrash grass band The Native Howl, a band with a penchant for putting banjo in places you wouldn’t think of. Come rock out on Monday, Dec. 11 at 6:30 p.m. Tickets for the all-ages show are $30 and can be found at thecomplexslc.com. (Emilee Atkinson)

Zakk Sabbath

SuperAve. x Super Future @ Sky SLC 12/13

The mysteriously masked dubstep producer SuperAve. is teaming up with beloved DJ Super Future for a bass-heavy and metaphysical experience for Energi Wednesday at Sky SLC. As part of “The Super Tour,” both “Super” artists relay messages of confidence and freedom of expression, but have distinct sounds and influences for an eclectic yet complementary night of music and fun. SuperAve. went viral for his Soundcloud hit “2047” four years ago, and has gained support from several big-name artists in the genre, including Zeds Dead, Jantsen, Subtronics, Mersiv and Peekaboo. He has stayed intentionally anonymous, which brings a certain mystique for fans and allows SuperAve. to curate an identity solely through his music and visual art. He is heavily influenced by nostalgic hip-hop artists like Dr. Dre, Nas, Jay-Z, Tupac, as well as producers like Timbaland, The Neptunes and 9th Wonder. The other headlining artist is Michigan native Nick Rowland, whose performer name Super Future indicates exactly how the music sounds: immensely forward-thinking. In contrast with SuperAve., Rowland’s bass music has more of a metal edge, but engages listeners with a wide range of music from twerk and trap to guitar solos. His unique sound is most evident on his new EP Full Spectrum, which is introspective but still keeps the high energy high. SuperAve. and Super Future perform at Sky SLC on Wednesday, Dec. 13. Doors open at 9 p.m. Advance General Admission costs $15 while day of show tickets cost $20. Go to skyslc.com (Arica Roberts)

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free will ASTROLOGY

BY ROB BREZSNY

ARIES (March 21-April 19)

I will cheer you on as you tenderly push yourself to be extra exploratory in the coming weeks. It’s exciting that you are contemplating adventures that might lead you to wild frontiers and half-forbidden zones. The chances are good that you will provoke uncanny inspirations and attract generous lessons. Go higher and deeper and further, dear Aries.

Track down secret treasures and lyrical unpredictability.

Experiment with the concept of holy rebellion.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20)

In January, I will tempt you to be a spirited adventurer who undertakes smart risks. I will invite you to consider venturing into unknown territory and expanding the scope of your education. But right now, I advise you to address your precious needs for stability and security. I encourage you to take extra good care of your comfort zone and even add cozy new features to it. Here’s a suggestion: Grab a pen and paper, or open a new file on your favorite device, then compose a list of everything you can do to feel exceedingly safe and supported.

with careful discernment—and vice versa. In general, Libra, you have an extraordinary ability to shift moods and modes with graceful effectiveness—as well as a finely honed sense of when each mood and mode is exactly right for the situation you’re in. I won’t be surprised if you accomplish wellbalanced miracles.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

Dear Goddess—Thank you a trillion times for never fulfilling those prayers I sent your way all those years ago. Remember?

When I begged and pleaded with you to get me into a sexy love relationship with You Know Who? I am so lucky, so glad, that you rejected my prayers. Though I didn’t see it then, I now realize that being in an intimate weave with her would have turned out badly for both her and me. You were so wise to deny me that misguided quest for “pleasure.” Now dear Goddess, I am asking you to perform a similar service for any Scorpio readers who may be beseeching you to provide them with experiences they will ultimately be better off without.

CANCER (June 21-July 22)

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Have you reached your full height? If there were ever a time during your adult life when you would literally get taller, it might be in the coming weeks. And that’s not the only kind of growth spurt that may occur. Your hair and fingernails may lengthen faster than usual. I wouldn’t be shocked if your breasts or penis got bigger. But even more importantly, I suspect your healthy brain cells will multiply at a brisk pace. Your ability to understand how the world really works will flourish.

You will have an increased flair for thinking creatively.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

Are people sometimes jealous or judgmental toward you for being so adept at multi-tasking? Are you weary of dawdlers urging you not to move, talk and mutate so quickly? Do you fantasize about having more cohorts who could join you in your darting, daring leaps of logic? If you answered yes to these questions, I expect you will soon experience an enjoyable pivot. Your quick-change skills will be appreciated and rewarded more than usual. You will thrive while invoking the spiritual power of unpredictability.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20)

Romantic relationships take work if you want them to remain vigorous and authentic. So do friendships. The factors that brought you together in the first place may not be enough to keep you bonded forever. Both of you change and grow, and there’s no guarantee your souls will continue to love being interwoven. If disappointment creeps into your alliance, it’s usually wise to address the issues head-on as you try to reconfigure your connection. It’s not always feasible or desirable, though. I still feel sad about the friend I banished when I discovered he was racist and had hidden it from me. I hope these ruminations inspire you to give your friendships a lot of quality attention in 2024. It will be an excellent time to lift the best ones up to a higher octave.

Go to realastrology.com for Rob Brezsny’s expanded weekly audio horoscopes and daily text-message horoscopes.

Audio horoscopes also available by phone at 877-873-4888 or 900-950-7700.

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According to my interpretation of your astrological prospects, you now have the capacity to accelerate quickly and slow down smoothly; to exult in idealistic visions and hunker down in pragmatic action; to balance exuberant generosity

The eminent Capricorn philosopher William James (1842–1910) is referred to as the “Father of American Psychology.” He was a brilliant thinker who excelled in the arts of logic and reason.

Yet he had a fundamental understanding that reason and logic were not the only valid kinds of intelligence. He wrote, “Rational consciousness is but one special type of consciousness, whilst all about it, parted from it by the filmiest of screens, there lie potential forms of consciousness entirely different.” This quote appears in his book The Varieties of Religious Experience. In accordance with astrological omens, I invite you to investigate those other types of consciousness in the coming months. You don’t need drugs to do so.

Simply state your intention that you want to. Other spurs: dreamwork, soulful sex, dancing, meditation, nature walks, deep conversations.

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I like Virgo author Cheryl Strayed’s thoughts about genuine togetherness. She says, “True intimacy isn’t a cluster fuck or a psychodrama. It isn’t the highest highs and lowest lows.

It’s a tiny bit of those things on occasion, with a whole lot of everything else in between. It’s communion and mellow compatibility. It’s friendship and mutual respect.” I also like Virgo author Sam Keen’s views on togetherness. He says, “At the heart of sex is something intrinsically spiritual, the desire for a union so primal it can be called divine.” Let’s make those two perspectives your guideposts in the coming weeks, Virgo.

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Booker T. Washington (1856–1915) was an American Black leader who advocated a gradual, incremental approach to fighting the effects of racism. Hard work and good education were the cornerstones of his policies. Then there was W.E.B. Dubois (1868–1963). He was an American Black leader who encouraged a more aggressive plan of action. Protest, agitation, pressure and relentless demands for equal rights were core principles in his philosophy. In the coming months, I recommend a blend of these attitudes for you. You’ve got two big jobs: to improve the world you live in and get all the benefits you need and deserve from it.

I periodically get a big jolt of feeling how much I don’t know.

I am overwhelmed with the understanding of how meager my understanding of life really is. On the one hand, this is deflating to my ego. On the other hand, it’s wildly refreshing.

I feel a liberating rush of relief to acknowledge that I am so far from being perfect and complete that there’s no need for me to worry about trying to be perfect or complete. I heartily recommend this meditation to you, fellow Cancerian. From an astrological perspective, now is a favorable time to thrive on fertile emptiness.

ONLY GAY

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

Among our most impressive superpowers is the potency to transform ourselves in alignment with our conscious intentions. For example, suppose you feel awkward because you made an insensitive comment to a friend. In that case, you can take action to assuage any hurt feelings you caused and thereby dissolve your awkwardness. Or let’s say you no longer want to be closely connected to people who believe their freedom is more important than everyone else’s freedom. With a clear vision and a bolt of willpower, you can do what it takes to create that shift. These are acts of true magic—as wizardly as any occult ritual. I believe you will have extra access to this superpower in the coming weeks. Homework: Identify three situations or feelings you will use your magic to change.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20)

SALT LAKE CITY’S

© 2023

MESSY MESSI

BY DAVID LEVINSON WILK

DOWN

1. Protected against 2. Mr. Scrooge 3. Gut-level 4. Where RNs practice triage 5. Things caught at a beach 6. Like a narrow baseball win 7. Emails anew

Broker, Urban Utah Homes & Estates, urbanutah.com

Light It Up!

8. Online chats, for short 9. Hoity-____ 10. Rucker of Hootie & the Blowfish 11. Accepts a FedEx delivery, perhaps 12. Hindu protector of the universe 13. BabyGap buy 18. Calendar pages: Abbr.

23. Chu ____ (Chinese philosopher) 25. Video game protagonist Croft 27. Back of the neck 29. It’s about 93 million miles away 33. Kissing on a park bench, e.g.

35. ____ standstill 37. City east of Santa Barbara 39. Pres. before FDR 40. Like this type: Abbr.

41. Missouri representative who is part of “The Squad” in Congress 42. “Yeah, same here” 43. One following statutes to the letter 45. Hairy Halloween rental 47. “Allow me ...”

48. Prime time hr.

49. Comedy’s ____ the

Entertainer 50. Longtime label for Kenny G 51. Leb. neighbor 53. Swaps 56. “Oliver Twist” villain 57. Suffix with odd or original 61. “A Visit From the Goon Squad” author Jennifer 65. Request for Alpo, maybe 66. Mil. address

Last week’s answers

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.

1. “Never Have ____” (Netflix series cocreated by Mindy Kaling) 6. “Pics ____ didn’t happen!”

10. “Whip It” rock band 14. African instrument also called a “thumb piano” 15. Dory’s friend, in a Pixar film 16. Z ____ zebra 17. Soccer star in need of a napkin?

19. Ascend 20. Where Michael Jordan played coll. ball 21. Miffed 22. Alternatives to wings 24. Portrait painter Alice 26. Iraqi Kurd with an optimistic outlook?

28. Pound and Cornell 30. Doc intended to protect confidentiality 31. Climate change or the economy, e.g.

32. Rip to shreds 34. Facial facility 36. Universal Studios Florida site 38. The “E” of PETA 44. 2020 WNBA MVP Wilson 46. Broadway opening?

47. Early Peruvians 52. Fitting 54. Feature of Greece but not Germany 55. Celebrity chef who is hot-tempered?

58. Her first word was “Bart” 59. First name in Indian political history 60. Completely fill 62. Neighbor of Arg. and Braz.

63. Seas, to Seurat 64. Famed architect who is tastelessly showy?

67. “Whoso diggeth ___ shall fall therein”: Proverbs 68. Pleasant feeling, to reggae fans 69. Lhasa ____ (Tibetan dogs) 70. Village People classic with a pantomimed chorus 71. Modern digital assets, in brief 72. Like seven Nolan Ryan games

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54 | DECEMBER 7, 2023

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

In 1882, Edward H. Johnson—Thomas Edison’s friend and partner in the Edison Illuminating Co.—hand-wired 80 red, white and blue electric light bulbs and wound them around his Christmas tree, launching a new tradition.

Nowadays, the average American spends $269 for holiday décor each year, according to a Rocket Homes survey, but the great thing about holiday lights is that they can be used year in and year out. If you’re feeling flush, you can hire a company like JellyFish Lighting to install permanent yearround outdoor lighting along the edges of your roof, windows and doors.

This time of year, darkness comes early. So, by the time many folks get off work, they go shopping in the dark but often get sidetracked driving by holiday décor. Some families plan car tours of the more over-the-top displays, of which there are many around our state.

If walking downtown in our capitol city, check out the candy window display at Macy’s. In past years, I’ve taken part in creating two of the displays— tons of work but fabulous fun!

In Salt Lake City, I show people Christmas Street, Bible Street and Frosty’s Wonderland, which are all free exhibits. Christmas Street in Sugar House started in 1947 just after World War II, when residents of Glen Arbor Street between 1500 East and 1600 East strung lights between everyone’s houses and put a candle in each window. Later, a wonderful sign went up on the corner of 1500 East, which is put up every year and nicely lit.

Sadly, the sign got broken last year and one of the support poles was bent.

Luckily, neighbors and fans have raised close to $10,000 to make the repairs and all will be well lit on the street as of Dec. 9. If you head west out of Christmas Street, after two blocks you will arrive at Bible Street, where each house on the street has a 4x8 foot sign lit up with a section of Bible scripture about the birth of Christ.

Other Salt Lake County displays include: Frosty’s Winter Wonderland at 805 18th Ave.; Temple Square (despite the construction); the Utah State Fairpark; Tracy Aviary’s Lightwalk; the Gallivan Center; the County Equestrian Park in South Jordan; Winder Lane at 4400 West and 4100 South; Gardner Village; and ZooLights at Hogle Zoo. Beyond the county, find a huge display with luminaria at Thanksgiving Point in Lehi. In St. George, look for the Light the Holidays Drive-thru Light Show on Mall Drive. Also check out the lights at a private home at 2183 S. Harmony Place and at Red Hills Desert Garden.

Cedar City’s downtown is well-lit, Spanish Fork has a drive-thru Festival of Lights and the Heber Valley Railroad’s North Pole Express is a special train that includes a visit from Santa and entertainment from elves.

There are lots of light parades around the state, so just Google your destination and see what lights up! n Content is prepared expressly for Community and is not endorsed by City Weekly staff.

University of Utah Health and the Moran Eye Center will be destroying medical records created prior to 01/01/2002 for all patients.

UUH and Moran will also be destroying medical records created prior to 01/01/2014 for deceased patients who passed away prior to 01/01/2014 and who were over the age of 18 at the time of death. If you would like to request a copy of your records prior to destruction, or if you have a legal right to access a deceased relatives medical information and would like a copy of their records, you must contact the facility at 801581-2704 before 01/01/2024. After that date, records will no longer be available.

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NEWS of the WEIRD

BY THE EDITORS AT ANDREWS MCMEEL

The Firearm Obsession

Dr. Jason Gladwell, an orthodontist in Raleigh, North Carolina, has a catchy new promotion going, WRAL-TV reported: “Grins and Glocks.” Yep—patients who sign up for Invisalign braces can choose between a free Glock 19 ($500+ retail) or a membership to Youngsville Gun Club & Range. The deal is open only to those 21 and older, and the club will conduct a background check on recipients. Dr. Gladwell has received mixed reactions to the come-on; notably, Align Technology, which makes Invisalign, isn’t happy: “This promotion does not reflect our brand purpose.”

using his mother’s fecal matter. Fecal microbiota transplants, or FMTs, are typically performed by a doctor and involve collecting feces from a healthy donor, mixing it with a saline solution and inserting it in the patient’s gastrointestinal tract through an enema. But Curtis’ DIY transplants had an unexpected side effect: Over the four years they did the procedure, Curtis experienced sweating, hot flashes and mood swings—his mom’s menopause symptoms. Doctors believe hormones in his mom’s fecal matter most likely were to blame. “When I was actually doing the procedure,” Curtis said, “I’d feel tingling inside of me. It felt healthy, it felt like it was working.”

Animal Antics

High on Christmas

A cargo flight on its way from New York to Liege, Belgium, was forced to turn around on Nov. 9 after a horse escaped its stall, CNN reported. The pilot alerted Boston Air Traffic Control that while the flight was not impeded, “we cannot get the horse back secured.” They also requested a veterinarian meet the plane at JFK Airport, as the horse was having “difficulty.” Later, the plane resumed its journey and arrived in Belgium the next morning.

Florida

Police Report

Weird Science

Charlie Curtis of Toronto, Canada, developed Crohn’s disease in 2014, Yahoo! News reported. Although he took medicine, Curtis was hospitalized with his symptoms and had to visit the bathroom multiple times a day. Then he tried a new therapy: do-it-yourself poop transplants,

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Awesome!

Kathy Magruder, who operates the Pageturners Bookstore in Indianola, Iowa, was rummaging through the never-checked-out books at the Calvin Community retirement home when she stumbled upon a treasure, KCCI-TV reported. There among the other titles was a leatherbound Bible, printed in 1705 in Selkirkshire, Scotland. Interestingly, it was printed illegally, without the oversight of the church. “This one, just something about it, when I open it up, the pages make a noise when you turn them that’s a little different than a new book. They feel a little different, and the book smells a little different than any other book,” Magruder said about the Bible.

Citizen’s Arrest

In Glendale, Wisconsin, on Nov. 15, police identified a stolen Dodge Durango being driven erratically, TMJ4TV reported. Officers deployed stop sticks, and the Durango crashed into two other cars before all four occupants jumped out and ran away, with one ducking into a portable toilet to hide. As they crossed a golf course, one golfer stepped in to help: “When we realized they were being chased and that kid was in the porta potty ... I just made a rash decision to go push the porta potty down,” said golfer Adam Westermayer.

The suspect was trapped inside, and police were able to arrest him and one other suspect.

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When a game warden pulled over a pickup truck near Lubbock, Texas, on Nov. 8, the driver and passenger obligingly waited with a deputy while the Texas Parks and Wildlife officer searched the vehicle, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reported. At one point, the driver asked for permission to retrieve a burrito and 44-ounce drink from the cab, telling the officer that he “did not have any drugs or anything in the vehicle.” Ah, but how about that big drink? When the officer removed the lid from the cup, he found an orange bag inside with 5 grams of methamphetamine. The driver was taken into custody.

ELVES ON THE SHELF!

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In West Palm Beach, Florida, on Nov. 9, Kelly Jacobson was heartbroken after officers led away her pet pig, Pork Chop, during an eviction. WPTV reported that animal care and control officers actually had to drag the pig, as he weighs 400 pounds and can’t really walk.

They plan to gain custody of Pork Chop and get him the dietary care he needs. Jacobson has been cited twice before for neglecting his needs, but she said she would “do whatever I have to do to make him better. I need him.”

Henry Meade, 40, was busy spreading the Christmas spirit on Nov. 11 in Tazewell, Tennessee, Fox59-TV reported. Meade was operating “Santa’s Train,” a riding lawn mower pulling a cart with children and families, at the town’s Christmas Tractor Parade. But visitors thought Meade was acting erratically and reported him to police.

He subsequently failed a sobriety test, and officers found a syringe, meth and other narcotics in his possession. He was charged with possession and driving under the influence.

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