City Weekly July 7, 2024

Ice Time

Utah hockey fans say the arrival of an NHL team could be a boon to youth sports programs.

By Robert Trishman

CITY WEEKLY

By Robert Trishman

CITY WEEKLY STORE

DINE

SLC FORECAST

S AP

someone—a bar in Salt Lake City?— with access to live crickets had a contest, people would eat them. And as far as I can see, there is no world record for eating them.

I sure wish [Cox] was on the Presidential ballot.

MTGREENHEADS Via Instagram

Lyman would have ended the income tax and kept a lot of nature out of the hands of developers. Thanks Utah, you kept the guy sucking on the teats of developers.

BOX

@SLCWEEKLY

@CITYWEEKLY

Eating Mormon Crickets

@SLCWEEKLY

I used to use [Mormon Crickets] for fish bait and they worked so well, I stocked up on live crickets when possible. They need to be separated or they will eat each other. They only keep for a short time in a refrigerator, but they last for a long time if they are blanched in boiling water with garlic powder and then frozen.

I never ate one, but they really do smell good when being blanched in water and seasoned with garlic powder. If I had read your article about the Indians eating them (“Urban Living” June 15, 2023) I would have tried one. In fact, I bet that if

CHRIS CARL Mohave Valley, Arizona

“Walking the Beat,” June 27 Cover Story

Our downtown ambassadors are amazing! KELLIFRESHMANPHOTOGRAPHY Via Instagram

Great Story. We really appreciate the coverage!

DOWNTOWNSLC Via Instagram

Great story! Thanks City Weekly. LAURA.RENSHAW Via Instagram

“On To November,” June 27 Online News

Editor’s note: This article—on Gov. Spencer Cox winning the Republican nomination and other results from last week’s primary election—was first published online at cityweekly. net and is reprinted in this issue on page 19.

[Cox] is much better than [Phil] Lyman, for sure. I’m not a fan, but these are our options and he’s a better candidate. More moderate, less dogmatic.

ANDREW.BANDHOOD Via Instagram

Oh goody. The cowardly lion who serves the corporations and the corporate church beat out the convicted felon. Fun fact: there is a decent, hard-working Democrat running. Vote Brian King. TERESA0697 Via Instagram

Sheep! Keep acting like this guy is going to change things! He’s [Morgan Republican Rep. Kera] Birkeland’s boyfriend! He doesn’t GAF about the majority of Utahns!

JANEYUTAH Via Instagram

SHRAIKE Via Instagram

Worst news for the state of Utah.

MARIAFERLAND Via Instagram

Clarification: The cover photo and two interior photos for last week’s feature, “Walking the Beat,” were provided courtesy of the Downtown Alliance, as City Weekly noted in its coverage. City Weekly would like to further credit the photographer, Kelli Freshman, who produced the images for the Downtown Alliance.

“Private Eye is off this week. Send feedback to comments@cittyweekly.net”

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

How are you celebrating the 4th of July?

Ben Wood

I’ll be at Bear Lake for scout camp but my heart will be with my hometown Huntsville for its 100th(!) anniversary and my mind will be with the riders of the Tour de France.

Scott Renshaw

Per recent tradition, I find a nice spot up on the east bench, look out over fireworks in the valley, and maybe read a book.

Carolyn Campbell

I drive to the top of a hill near my house where you can see four fireworks shows all at once.

Kayla Dreher

At the lake with my family in Wisconsin! I’ve yet to find a good Utah tradition for the 4th. I feel it needs to be celebrated by a body of water which is difficult in Utah.

Larry Carter

Family, BBQ and my favorite Red Ale. And if I can still get up there, rooftop fireworks displays.

Bill Frost

By applying for journalistic asylum in Canada.

Chelsea Neider

Staying home with my dog. He hates fireworks.

OPINION

BY BENJAMIN WOOD

Two Stein Kind of Night

I’m not much of a beer drinker. I didn’t start imbibing alcohol of any kind until my late 20s and without the kegfueled college years of a more typical post-adolescence, I found myself largely leapfrogging the brewed arts in favor of a good mezcal, gin or, especially, bourbon.

But there are routine occasions when I make a point to drink local beers: I always take a few cans with me on the 999 ride; it typically takes me two pints-worth of time at Cheers to You to finish the City Weekly crossword puzzle; and I always get a pint with my burger at Brewvies, especially since they have Kiitos Coffee Cream Ale on tap—my favorite.

But last week, after locking up my ebike and heading into Brewvies for the CNN debate between Joe Biden and Donald Trump, I did what I almost never do and ordered a stein. And after the first ad break, I ordered another.

Brewvies was the perfect host to watch the debate. There was some initial discomfort caused by local media who decided to cover the screening by shining bright lights in the audience’s faces. But they graciously tilted their gear upward after I asked them to.

The auditorium was roughly two-thirds full, largely millennial and overwhelmingly pro-Biden or, at minimum, anti-Trump. I’ll admit to being a little nervous going in—the prospect of spending 90 minutes surrounded by local MAGA Proud Boys weighed on me—but once again my fellow Salt Lakers were a source of familial comfort, as if we had all gathered in the living room, drinks and snacks at the ready, to watch TV together.

I started the evening worried that I was walking into a

fight. I ended the evening feeling like I had participated in a twisted form of group therapy.

There’s no ands, ifs or buts about it: Biden sucked. And while there’s no question he’s being held to an unfair double-standard next to a malignant narcissist and adjudicated criminal who has no business being treated like a legitimate candidate, there’s also no denying that Joseph Robinette Biden is an elderly man past his prime who failed to assuage the doubts about his ability to win this election.

You could feel the dread building in the room, as nervous chuckling gave way to full-bellied gallows humor. There were cheers when the moderators reiterated to Trump that he had failed, over and over again, to answer their questions. And there were gasps and groans as Biden failed, over and over again, to land obvious and necessary blows against the most eminently punchable and fallacious man on Earth. When I ducked out for my second stein, I passed a woman who was holding her friend and attempting to reassure them by saying “It’ll be OK. It’ll be Ok.”

Will it? Please, someone tell me, will it be OK?

Donald Trump is unrepentant about the damage he caused to this country, most viscerally with the horrific events surrounding January 6 (my birthday, for an added treat) and the subversion of the 2020 election, but also extending through two bipartisan impeachments, the emboldening of white supremacists, an inept response to a global pandemic that killed millions, the brain drain and delegitimization of federal agencies and his sole legislative achievement: an ill-conceived package of tax cuts that benefited the ultra wealthy while blowing a hole in the nation’s economic solvency.

But perhaps the most insidious aspect of Trump’s continued presence in our lives is the way he’s warped the Republican Party into a demented farce powered by grievance and delusion. We Americans are trapped in a two-party paradigm and it matters when one of those parties (the party I was raised in) can no longer be trusted to uphold the

fundamental tenets of liberal democracy.

More than 45% of Utah Republicans were willing to hand the governor’s mansion to Phil Lyman who, like Trump, rejects any facts that don’t suit him. And Sen. Mike “Based” Lee appears able to retain office for as long as he’d like despite being a useless and insufferable hack, to put it nicely.

The feeling of powerlessness, watching the country careen toward obvious calamity, is suffocating. Democrats seemingly have no answer—and certainly no easy answer—to this problem, while my fellow Republicans appear content to close their eyes, plug their ears and assume they’ll come out alright on the other end. Mitt Romney calls a spade a spade and is being shown the door; state Auditor John Dougall stood for competence and decency and got walloped in the primary.

I take what little comfort I can from knowing that a vote for a presidential candidate is also a vote for the cabinet and broader administration that the president will organize. Earlier in the same day as the CNN debate, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg performed wonderfully in a Capitol hearing on electric vehicle subsidies, slicing and dicing the bad-faith arguments of MAGA morons. The nation’s woefully dilapidated infrastructure is finally seeing investment after decades of false promises and under Biden, the United States has seen its longest sustained period of below-4% unemployment since Vietnam. Funny how all the Republicans running on “the economy” never seem to mention that little tidbit.

A vote for Trump is a vote to bring the circus back to town, and to reward the misdeeds of a deeply troubled man. A vote for Biden is a vote for a man who—let’s be honest— might very well die in office, but who will at least put intelligent people in place to keep the wheels from falling off. It’s a brutal choice that Americans never should have been presented with. Here’s hoping a third stein helps it go down smoother. CW

HITS & MISSES

BY KATHARINE BIELE | @kathybiele

MISS: Railroaded

In the ongoing fight about who gets to hold the hammer, the U.S. Supreme Court is wagging its finger at the U.S. Appeals Court. At issue is the 88-mile Uinta Basin Railway which environmentalists say would harm wildlife and vegetation, among other downstream effects. The railroad would connect eastern Utah to another rail on the Colorado River and pump up fossil fuel production. Of course, that’s what the Utah legislature wants, and may be what the high court affirms, given its affinity to right-wing proposals. The project was first approved by the federal Surface Transportation Board, which the Appeals Court determined had not sufficiently analyzed the environmental impacts. No matter what the ruling, citizens can expect to see more from the courts as they wind their way to the top.

HIT: On the Level

No matter what you think about rivers and lakes, you can take heart that there is ongoing dialogue over Lake Powell and how canyons and rivers are affecting water levels and flows. All this is important to recreation, ecosystems and basic survival. The Utah News Collaborative reported on June 30 of not only sediment buildup in Lake Powell, but of “sand waves” that flow down and clog the river. The remaining deltas can become a problem, observed Jack Stauss of the Grand Canyon Institute. But it’s not all bad and can rebuild beaches and restore ecosystems. There are a lot of plans, including draining Lake Powell or creating bypass tunnels. Lake Powell’s capacity has dropped some 7% from all the sediment. While there’s recycling and rebuilding of the red rock walls, officials and environmentalists are keeping tabs.

MISS: A Man and a “Plan”

Because Sen. Mike Lee so often broadcasts “alternative facts,” it pains us to say he almost got something right. Briefly, we’ll say he was wrong-headed by calling out the LDS church-owned KSL News in the Mia Bailey murder case. Obviously he doesn’t understand the transgender world or the fact that people kill people. Oh, and guns do, too. But steering from that, let’s talk about his call to dismantle the Federal Reserve. Lee’s way is to totally destroy rather than reform the institution. He says it failed to achieve its mandate to manipulate the economy. It’s so much more complicated than that. The Fed actually enables the rich and continues to bail out a “shadow banking system,” while it should be deferring to legislators for good policy, according to Columbia law professor Lev Menand in a 2022 ProPublica interview. Lee thinks inflation is all the Fed’s fault. As usual, he doesn’t have a plan to make monetary policy work, unless you call letting banks run wild a plan.

Under Control

One year ago, Gov. Spencer Cox hired Tiffany Clason as director of the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control, changed the agency’s name to emphasize its new commitment to “service” (DABS) rather than “control” (DABC), and said he was making a business case for the sale of alcohol in Utah.

But today, bar and restaurant owners say the emphasis is definitely back on “control.” They say State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) officers have doubled down on sting operations and ticketing. They feel explicitly targeted and many refused to speak on record, saying they fear official retaliation.

At the same time, state liquor store sales are soaring. Those stores are in direct competition with private businesses—they get their liquor at cost, while hospitality has to pay full price plus an 88.5% markup and tax. And according to word on the street, staterun stores aren’t getting harassed.

In 2024, HB548—yet another control amendment sponsored by Rep. Jefferson Burton, R-Salem—passed and was signed by the governor. According to the bill, Utah’s “highly involved” alcohol policies “reflect Utahns’ values and preferences.” It allows for more liquor licenses, but brags that “Utah will continue to have the strictest quota in the nation.” It also adds three SBI officers who will presumably target licensees. Burton did not respond to City Weekly’s requests for comment.

This treatment of small business doesn’t reflect my values or preferences. And I don’t believe it actually reflects the values or preferences of the Latter-day Saint population that the phrase “Utahns” is clearly alluding to when Burton uses it.

The Mormons I’ve known all my life are actual conservatives. Conservatism is the idea that the Constitution and Bill of Rights are so important they ought to be conserved. Were it not for these documents, Joseph Smith would never have been able to launch—or restore—his church. That’s why Mormons feel conserving our founding documents is a civil obligation.

They should join us in our indignation. Utah threatens small business and over-taxes us not for the sake of the Constitution, but for the corporation we call a state. Case in point: among current DUI arrests, 71% are first-time arrestees. Why? Because these people are not criminals. Having .05% blood alcohol level is not a crime; it’s not even a buzz. But it does increase revenue.

Most Mormons don’t monitor alcohol policy because they don’t think it affects them—but it does. Alcohol policy, policing and taxation are the window into how Utah runs—on the principle of the two-faced god Janus. The state makes money selling alcohol, then makes money ticketing hospitality and patrons. It’s a greedy scheme.

We all have a stake in this. Policies regarding alcohol laws, sting operations and ticketing should be subject to public review and debate instead of being the province of privileged insiders who can’t get enough control.

Mountain Summer

A roundup of music, movies, food and more for your summer at the Cottonwood Canyons resorts

BY AIMEE L. COOK comments@cityweekly.neT

While ski resorts are typically associated with winter sports and snowcovered mountains, the summer months bring a whole new array of exciting activities worth exploring. During the warmer season, resorts transform into vibrant hubs for outdoor adventure—offering everything from hiking to live music and moonlight movies. It’s a unique way to experience the spectacular landscapes and invigorating mountain air.

BRIGHTON

Mount Majestic Music Series (Alpine Rose, Saturdays & Sundays June 16 – Aug. 11): Enjoy live music from top local artists in a beautiful mountain setting. Savor worldclass BBQ and a variety of food and drinks, including local brews.

Majestic Movie Mondays (Alpine Rose, Mondays June 24 – Aug. 5): Watch classic and current movies for free on the deck at Alpine Rose. Food and beverages, including movie theater snacks, are available. Movies start at sundown; opens at 5 p.m. Weekend Brunch (Milly Chalet, Sundays and select Saturdays, June 16 – Sep. 1): Indulge in a rotating menu featuring unique dishes and pastries from Brighton Bakery. Reservations recommended. Brunch runs from 10:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. with a full bar menu available.

Adventures in Dining Series (Wasatch

Mountain Lodge and Milly Chalet): Monthly Campfire Cookouts feature Chef Jeff Sanich cooking a variety of dishes over open flames. Limited to 50 guests per date. Reservations required. The bi-monthly “Cooking in the Cottonwoods” events offer a chance to learn cooking techniques and dish pairings with Chef Jeff. Includes appetizers, dinner and one drink. “People should come to Brighton to see something special curated by a team of professionals who care deeply about the resort and the guest experience. And honestly, people should come to Brighton this summer so that they can say that they were here at the beginning,” says Chef Jeff Sanich. Reservations are required

SNOWBIRD

Speedgoat Mountain Races by UTMB (July 19 – 20): Conquer the trails winding through Snowbird by choosing from the 10K, 21K, 28K or 50K races. During race weekend, enjoy resort amenities. All races begin and end on the Plaza Deck at Snowbird Center, Entry 2, with the race village conveniently located in the Upper Circle lot outside Snowbird Center. Spectators can enjoy limited tram rides the morning of each race day; registered participants can take advantage of lodging discounts.

Wasatch Wildflower Festival (July 27): Hosted annually by the Cottonwood Canyons Foundation, this event celebrates the beauty and ecological diversity of wildflowers in the Wasatch Mountains. This multi-day event (July 13 at Brighton, July 14 at Solitude and July 28 at Alta) features guided and self-guided wildflower walks from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Registration is free at cottonwoodcanyons.org.

Oktoberfest (Saturdays, Sundays and Labor Day, Aug. 10 – Oct. 13): Enjoy weeks of fun for the entire family, offering activities like polka dancing, live music, traditional Bavarian fare, over 50 varieties of beer and an array of local vendors, all with free admission. Noon - 6 p.m. daily.

A&E

SOLITUDE

Coca-Cola Sunset Cinema (July 11 & 25, Aug. 8, 15, 22 & 29): Enjoy a classic film under the stars on Moonbeam Lawn. Each night, movies begin at 8 p.m., and attendees are encouraged to bring their own blankets or low lawn chairs to settle in for the show. Should the weather turn inclement, the movie will be elocated indoors to Moonbeam Lodge.

Free Outdoor Yoga (Saturdays through Oct. 5, 9 a.m. - 10 a.m.): Start your day by taking in the crisp mountain air and stretching in the sunshine. Every Saturday this summer, free outdoor yoga sessions are held at The Inn at Solitude’s lawn, or the nearby lawn next to Apex Express chairlift. Both locations are conveniently accessible from Solitude Village; participants are encouraged to bring their own yoga mats.

Live Outdoor Music Series (Sundays through Sept. 22): Every Sunday this summer, visitors can enjoy live music at assorted locations around the resort. July 14th, for example, features Herban Empire at the Village Green. Various dining options are available, including Stone Haus

and The Thirsty Squirrel, where one can savor a cocktail, glass of wine, or craft beer. Additionally, Stone Haus and the Village Store offer beer to-go for those who prefer to take their drinks with them.

ALTA

Alta Birding Hikes (July 25, Aug. 22, Sept. 26, Oct. 24, Nov. 7, 9 a.m. – noon): The Tracy Aviary Conservation Team invites participants to join their monthly bird survey at Alta. Each event features updates on the year’s findings and a guided bird walk led by a Tracy Aviary expert. These Alta Birding Hikes take place on the third Thursday of each month, from May to November. Registration is required, location is given after registering.

Kids Day (Aug. 9, 10 a.m. -2 p.m.): Children are invited to experience a day of fun and learning in the mountains. Partner organizations, such as TreeUtah, and Friends of Alta, will host various activity booths, each teaching different environmental aspects. The event will take place along the Transfer Tow, near the Wildcat Lot and just south of the Goldminer’s Daughter Lodge. Registration is required. CW

MIKE HARRINGTON

Summer Brunch at Brighton

July 4th Celebrations

There’s no one “right” way to be patriotic, so there’s no reason not to celebrate America’s birthday. Many municipalities and organizations host festivities for July 4th; here’s just a handful of the ones you might be considering.

Downtown SLC’s biggest Independence Day party takes place at The Gateway (400 W. 100 South) Olympic Plaza. Beginning at 6 p.m., family-friendly entertainment will be available on the plaza, including live music from Diamond Empire Band, karaoke, yard games, face-painting, photo ops and more. Vendors on site will be selling food and locally-made items, all leading up to a fireworks show at 10 p.m. The event is free and open to the public; visit atthegateway.com for additional information.

This Is The Place Heritage Park (2601 Sunnyside Ave.) celebrates “Liberty Day” from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. for an old-fashioned patriotic celebration. Events include flag ceremony, dancing and the annual watermelon-eating contest. Regular park admission ($14.95 - $18.95) is required; visit thisistheplace.org.

One of the valley’s largest holiday gatherings takes place in Sandy City on the Sandy Promenade (10000 S. 172 West) for a full day of activities. Beginning at 10 a.m., inflatables, activities, food and vendor booths fill the venue for family-friendly fun, including trampoline “big air” shows. The parade takes place at 6 p.m., followed by live music from The Salamanders and 10 p.m. fireworks sky concert. Visit sandy.utah.gov.

Many other cities throughout the state, plus some ski resorts, present their own local activities, so check out local government and resort websites for additional options and details. (Scott Renshaw)

Origins Spirit of Polynesia – Discover the traditions of the islands brought to Utah. This special one night only show features live music, traditional dance, fire dancing stories and more. The best Polynesian Night show outside of the islands.

Sept. 7, 8pm Draper Amphitheater

theESSENTIALS ENTERTAINMENT PICKS,

Complete listings online at cityweekly.net

JULY 4-10, 2024

Utah Symphony: Patriotic Pops/Christmas in July

When the July weather heats up, it’s a great time to head up into the mountains for a variety of seasonal activities. There are few better excuses than when the Utah Symphony fills the Deer Valley Snow Park Amphitheater with music, and this week features two terrific performance options—one that leans into July, and another that evokes the snowy days of the winter holiday season.

On Friday, July 5 at 7:30 p.m., the Deer Valley Music Festival presents the Utah Symphony’s “Patriotic Pops” program. Evan Roider conducts the Symphony in an evening that includes “The Star-Spangled Banner,” selections by Aaron Copland, John Williams’ theme to Born on the Fourth of July, John Philip Sousa marches and more. Reserved seating is $99, with lawn seating $21 - $42.

The following evening, on Saturday, July 6 at 7:30 p.m., the Symphony offers a chance to get into the Christmas spirit really early with the “Christmas in July” program. The venue is lit up with Christmas lights, Christmas cookies will be available, and every guest will receive a complimentary Santa hat. Connor Gray Covington conducts a program of seasonal favorites like “Sleigh Ride,” selections from Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker, Rimsky-Korsakov’s Polonaise from Christmas Eve and the “Winter” movement from Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons. Reserved seating is $45$72, with lawn seating $12.50 - $25.

Guests are welcome to bring their own picnic dinners, though full concessions are available on-site, and no outside alcohol is permitted in the venue. Visit deervalleymusicfestival.org for tickets and additional event information. (SR)

Utah Festival Opera & Musical Theatre

A summer jaunt up to Logan could be a delight for any number of reasons, but there’s a particular incentive throughout the month of July and early August. That marks the annual Utah Festival Opera & Musical Theatre season, which again brings several wonderful full productions and special events for those who love the glory of song with their theater experience.

This year’s four primary productions cover an amazing range of theatrical history, starting with the Howard Ashman/Alan Menken favorite Little Shop of Horrors. The world of classical opera is represented by a double-feature including Puccini’s Gianni Schicchi and the Michael Ching-penned sequel Buosso’s Ghost. The Great American Songbook of Cole Porter takes center stage in the wonderful Anything Goes, Nathan Detroit and company ask luck to be a lady in Guys and Dolls (2010 UFOMT production pictured), and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s spectacle Cats rounds out the offerings.

Among the one-night and limited engagements, audiences can enjoy Verdi’s Requiem on July 30, the operatic showcase Galaxy of Stars on July 23, and a comedic selection of piano classics in The Pianists. And you shouldn’t miss the Michael Ballam Vocal Competition July 23 and July 29, honoring the festival’s founder.

The 2024 season of Utah Festival Opera & Musical Theatre runs July 5 – Aug. 3, with performances 1 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. most days Mondays – Saturdays. Tickets are available for individual shows ($9 - $93), and for a series pass for all five full productions; special concerts are separate. Visit ufomt.org to purchase tickets and for additional season information. (SR)

Ice Time

Utah hockey fans say the arrival of an NHL team could be a boon to youth sports programs.

By Robert Trishman comments@cityweekly.net

The Utah Hockey Club’s first preseason game is just over two months away. Local fans are anticipating the NHL franchise’s inaugural season in Utah, and excitement has been building in the state’s youth hockey scene.

The Davis County Youth Hockey Association started in 2002, the same year Salt Lake City hosted the Winter Olympic Games. It is one of several amateur youth hockey organizations in Utah—among others from Idaho and Nevada—that travel and compete against each other. Children as young as 4 can participate.

Alex Wright has been on the ice since he was around that age.

“Always after swimming lessons, I wanted to go and watch the Zamboni cleaning the ice at the hockey rink,” Alex said. “I thought I wanted to go skating on that, and I started skating and got involved in hockey.”

Now age 11, Alex plays left defenseman for the Davis County Wind, a traveling tournament team, as well as a club team called the Kraken, after Seattle’s NHL franchise. He said he is ready for Utah’s team to take the ice.

“I’m super-excited about it. I’ve been waiting for this for a long time,” said Alex, who added that he became a fan of the NHL’s Las Vegas Golden Knights after attending one of their games. “I’ll probably like Vegas as

Utah hockey enthusiasts have hope that an NHL franchise spurs growth and local attention for the sport, as it did in the neighboring Silver State, home of the 2023 Stanley Cup champs.

When the Golden Knights began playing in 2017, there were about 400 youth hockey players in Nevada; now, more than 4,000 children in the state are involved in hockey, according to Patrick Jacobsen, president of the Davis County Youth Hockey board of directors.

“The growth that we are expecting for the sport is going to be huge,” Jacobsen said, adding that it comes with other challenges, however welcome. “The biggest hope we have is more rinks will be built. We have an ice shortage right now.” The Davis league plays at the South Davis Recreation Center in Bountiful. Cham Larsen’s family knows that the love of the game will find people playing wherever they can. She said her husband—Stefan MacKinnon—played in Ogden in his younger days on a rodeo arena surface that would be flooded, then frozen for hockey.

Larsen has two sons in the Davis County league and looks forward to more youths joining the ranks.

“There will be new interest because we are going to see more players at the top of their game play here all year,” she said. Larsen’s sons Coen (pictured, at left) and Merek MacKinnon, ages 11 and 15, also play for the Bountiful Middle and

What Larsen enjoys about hockey is the sense of commitment and the qualities it can develop for those who play.

“It takes effort and time to learn to skate well … So it is a commitment, but that means kids and families want to be there,” Larsen said. “This co-ed sport creates character, decisiveness and trust in a team. Your kids will learn how to win and lose gracefully, and to sit and think in the penalty box when they get out of line. They will

That has been true for young Alex Wright, as well.

“I really like the community, everyone’s super nice. It’s not a very common sport,” he said. “Most of my friends are hockey friends.”

For young boys and girls interested in hockey, USA Hockey offers a Try Hockey for Free Day each year. Both Alex and Larsen encouraged participating in it, as well as other ways to develop interest in the game.

“I would probably just take (friends) to an NHL game,” Alex said, alluding to the opportunity many Utahns will have beginning this season. “Once you go to a game, you pay attention to it a lot more.”

Larsen said the youth programs have benefited her children, and she recommended it for families interested in sports.

“I asked my sons what they’d choose between playing 20 games they knew they’d lose or not play hockey; they both said they would play,” Larsen said.

Room to Breathe

A revamped Delta Center should build on the success of quiet zones.

BY ROBERT TRISHMAN comments@cityweekly.net

The Utah professional sports scene is about to welcome a high-profile addition. Salt Lake City is ready for an NHL franchise to begin play for the 2024-2025 season. The arrival will necessitate renovations to the Delta Center and is poised to spur revamping of a downtown entertainment district.

The changes bring many questions. Will streets be buried underground? Will local businesses benefit from increased sports fan traffic? Will Utah have a Stanley Cup before we see a Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy?

Those are questions I can’t claim to answer. But there is one small section of the Delta Center whose philosophy I would like to see cast influence over and factor into implementation of the revitalization process.

On the upper concourse of the Delta Center, between Portals LL and MM, is a Sensory Room. The room is intended for use by children on the autism spectrum, or who have other developmental disabilities. That information is according to Vivint Innovation Center, which raises the question whether

it will continue with Vivint sponsorship now that the arena’s naming rights have reverted back to Delta.

The Sensory Room debuted in 2018 in time for April’s Autism Awareness Month. I first came across the room while attending a 2021 playoff game between the Jazz and the Los Angeles Clippers. It was raucous and boisterous, which is standard for NBA and Jazz playoff games as well as many regular season games.

I had taken my then-8-year-old son Briggs with me. He lives with autism. It was crowded and loud, which are normally difficult circumstances for me—I would feel the need to leave a gathering at someone’s house in such conditions—though I can somehow tolerate these conditions at sporting

events and concerts in larger venues.

But for many, especially children, a threshold of tolerance is reached much faster. It’s common while in attendance or watching a game on TV to be shown the adorable sight of a baby wearing protective headphones as their hoop-fan parents hold them up, Simba-style. It’s likely that more fans would benefit from ear protection.

Fans may want to be at the game, but the noise and sights can be too much for the nervous system to handle. This was the case for my son during that Jazz-Clippers game, as he got picked up at halftime and went home. After making sure he got out safely, I was walking the concourse back to my seat and noticed the Sensory Room. It struck me as a cozy and quiet room. Maybe not “cozy” in the sense of man-cave creature comforts—there are no deluxe leather reclining chairs with drink holders (you can’t bring drinks into the room, anyway, which

is smart). It’s cozy in the sense that it’s mere feet away from the intense atmosphere of NBA basketball, but feels safe and calm.

In the room are tactile play structures to keep kids occupied and satisfy their sensory-seeking curiosities, as well as some exercise items for the “heavy work” that help regulate the nervous system. It also has books and other items to stimulate the imagination while taking refuge from the overstimulation of the arena.

I didn’t know everything I needed to know about sensory matters during that 2021 playoff game. I don’t know everything now, but I was more prepared to make use of the Sensory Room during a game this past season. More on that shortly.

There is a model for a sensoryneeds space at a sporting venue across the pond. Wrexham A.F.C., located in Wales and part of English Football League One (that’s soccer, for the

ROBERT TRISHMAN

The sensory room at the Delta Center offers a quiet respite for Jazz fans.

Americans here), has devoted a section of its STōK Cae Ras stadium to be a Quiet Zone for those with autism or other disabilities and needs.

European football matches look to be electric atmospheres that attract many for the “ABSOLUTE SCENES!” But many fans want to cheer on their team while not being in the middle of the noise. The Quiet Zone offers exactly that.

The Wrexham club is owned by actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney and is featured in the FX docuseries Welcome to Wrexham, which can also be watched on Hulu (Programming note: The Quiet Zone is featured in Season 2, Episode 2).

The Welsh side has garnered much praise and some derision due to its rise fueled by an infusion of Hollywood money. But the Quiet Zone is an investment that benefits a fanbase and a community. It deserves to be highlighted and begs to be implemented all over the sports world.

Now, back to the Sensory Room at the Delta Center. This past spring, I took Briggs, who’s now 11, to another Jazz game. He wanted to be there, meaning at the game, but he didn’t want to be there, meaning cramped in the cacophonous crowd. We were at our seats, but he was telling me he wanted to leave. The atmosphere was very disruptive to his nervous system, despite being somewhere he anticipated enjoying as a young Jazz fan.

“Let’s go to the Sensory Room,” I said to him. We left our seats.

We spent much of the first half and the start of the third quarter in the room. He explored the play structures, tried his hand … er, foot … at a balance ball and even lifted some of the dumbbells. He was calm and struck up a good conversation with a kind arena staffer. In his words, “I liked how it was a place that wasn’t so loud and crammed. Just a place where I could play around with stuff.”

There was a time in my sports-fan life where I would have been itching to get back to my seat for the game, especially that night as we were seeing young San Antonio Spurs phenom Victor Wembanyama take on the Jazz. But learning about sensory needs and having a safe place for my son were why I was content to stay in the room as long as he desired. Sitting on a bean bag and watching the game on a muted TV were just right that night while he had physical and mental space to regulate his nervous system. We eventually made it back to our seats, and he was able to enjoy a Jazz win.

With all the luxury suites and top-flight gameday experiences that sports venues offer, a space like the Sensory Room is an investment in inclusion that won’t take front and center on any highlight reel, but will create appreciative fans for life. Adding more of such spaces and amenities is a win in itself, and, if you believe it, may bring some good karma to earn that Larry O’Brien Trophy and/or Stanley Cup. CW

Briggs uses a balance ball platform during a Utah Jazz game.

On To November

Gov. Spencer Cox clinches GOP nomination while several Salt Lake County incumbents fall to primary challengers.

BY BENJAMIN WOOD BWOOD@CITYWEEKLY.NET

Utah Gov. Spencer Cox secured his place on the November ballot last week, winning roughly 55% of the Republican primary vote against challenger Phil Lyman, according to unofficial results. The victory puts Cox in pole position for a second term, barring an underdog surge from the Democratic candidate, Salt Lake City Rep. Brian King.

“I love this state and her people,” Cox posted on social media after the Associated Press called his race. “I am honored to represent my party on the ballot in November. Let’s work together to keep Utah the greatest state in the nation.”

Lyman—a Donald Trump-pardoned state House representative from Blanding whose campaign espoused a variety of baseless election-related conspiracy theories, including that Cox had somehow disrupted individual voters’ home internet connections—was preferred by the delegates to the party’s nominating convention in April, but struggled to transition that support to the broader party electorate and has so far refused to concede the election. Lyman was one of several conventionendorsed candidates who failed in the primary, adding fuel to the long-simmering divisions between backers of the Utah Republican Party’s delegate system and those who support a signature-gathering option for primary ballot access.

The state party had previously refused to provide support to signature-gathering candidates, sending out a mailer that listed only those who had been embraced by convention delegates. But in a prepared statement following the primary, Utah Republican Party chairman Robert Axson said the organization would accept the will of voters and work to help elect those who earned the GOP nomination.

“One thing is clear: the Utah GOP has fantastic Utahns representing us,” Axson said. “As a party, we fully commit to supporting them in their journey to victory on November 5th.”

In the state’s other marquee races, Congressman John Curtis won the Republican nomination for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Mitt Romney, state Sen. Mike Kennedy won the nomination for Curtis’ current seat in the 3rd Congressional District, incumbent Congresswoman Celeste Maloy appeared to narrowly secure her renomination in the 2nd District and former state Republican Party chairman Derek Brown held a plurality lead for the nomination for state attorney general, an office that has been plagued with scandal for the last decade under current AG Sean Reyes and his two predecessors, John Swallow and Mark Shurtleff.

Results from the 2024 primary election will be finalized on July 22, following a canvas of votes, and the Republican nominees for statewide and federal races are heavily favored to win in November given the state’s longstanding voter demographics.

Changing of the Guard

NEWS

Several Salt Lake County incumbents will be involuntarily retired from office after failing to secure the support of primary voters. In the Utah House, seven-term Democratic Rep. Joel Briscoe will cede his party’s nomination to Grant Miller, who won 49% of the vote in a three-way race. And Draper Republican Rep. Jeff Stenquist, one of the most vocal proponents of the controversial Little Cottonwood Canyon gondola, was routed by Cal Roberts in a roughly 70-30 defeat.

In a video conceding the election, Briscoe noted that there is no Republican candidate running for his seat and offered his congratulations and support to Miller, whose election in November is largely a formality.

“Even though I will be out of the Legislature come January, I will not stop in my efforts to make Utah’s air cleaner, the water cleaner, to preserve Utah’s public lands,” Briscoe said. “I ask you to commit with me to defending democracy in America and doing everything we can to make Utah a safe place for all.”

First-term Salt Lake City School Board member Jenny Sika will not retain her seat after finishing third in the nonpartisan primary with 29% of the vote behind challengers Turner Bitton and Charlotte Fife-Jepperson, who were fairly evenly matched with 35% and 36%, respectively, a difference of 30 votes. The two challengers will advance to November’s general election.

In the three-way race to replace retiring SLC School Board member Kristi Swett, Amanda Longwell held a commanding lead with nearly 60% of the vote, while it appeared Richard Whitney would advance to the November ballot with 24% and Michael Allen McBride would be eliminated with 17%, though updated vote counts could presumably see those candidates switch positions before the canvas is finalized.

State School Board member Natalie Cline, of Bluff-

dale, had already been eliminated from contention for her seat after failing to win delegate support at convention and declining to gather signatures to maintain ballot access. Cline was a constant source of controversy during her single term on the state board, frequently criticizing LGBTQ inclusion and other efforts around diversity and equity, and her convention loss was broadly attributed to an incident in which Cline targeted a high school athlete online, falsely implying the student was transgender and leading to widespread condemnation and unprecedented sanctions from her board colleagues and the Utah Legislature.

County Lines

Voters in Salt Lake County will elect four members of the County Council this year, including one at-large seat. The primary winners for that countywide race appear to be settled, with current South Salt Lake City councilmember Natalie Pinkney winning 69% in the Democratic primary and venture capitalist Rachelle Morris winning 58% of the Republican primary vote.

In County Council district 2—the only other Council seat with a primary—current West Valley Republican Sen. Daniel Thatcher trailed his opponent Carlos Moreno by a razor thin margin of less then 200 votes, as of press time. Early numbers showed Thatcher in the lead, but subsequent updates to the voter totals led him to fall behind Moreno.

Last week’s election also included a primary race for County Surveyor, which is an open seat as incumbent Surveyor Reid Demman is not seeking reelection to another term.

According to the unofficial vote results, Bradley Park has secured the Republican nomination with 56% of the vote and will advance to a November face off with Kent Setterberg, the Democratic candidate. CW

Utah Gov. Spencer Cox won the GOP nomination for a second term.

DINE

Patriots and Pralines

How I took on–and failed–the Liberty Bell Challenge at Brooker’s Founding Flavors.

BY ALEX SPRINGER comments@cityweekly.net @captainspringer

Idon’t tend to make a humongous deal out of Independence Day. I watch Roland Emmerich’s 1996 classic sci-fi film of the same name, grill some hot dogs, drink a lot of beer and watch the firework show from my bedroom window. This year, however, I may have christened a new July 4th tradition with the help of Brooker’s Founding Flavors Ice Cream

This Colonial America-inspired ice cream parlor is home to a massive, 13-scoop-sundae known as The Liberty Bell Monumental Sundae ($76), and it comes served with its very own challenge: If you can eat the whole thing in less time than the current record, you get it for free. Thus, in the year of our Lord twenty and twenty-four, I attempted to tackle the Liberty Bell.

If you’re from the northern end of the Wasatch Front, there’s a good chance you’ve never heard of Brooker’s Founding Flavors. It’s a small outfit that started off in Provo, and has expanded to Saratoga Springs, Vineyard and Herriman, the latter of which was where I first gave it a go. Its Revolutionary War-era drip comes from founder Brian Brooker, a Virginianative who opened Founding Flavors as a way to celebrate his passion for the found-

ing of America and creamy ice cream. When you visit, you’ll notice rustic decor, antique art and a staff that is clad in Revolution-era garb such as tricorn hats and muslin gowns. The 28 flavors of ice cream include names like Aaron Burr’s Murderous Shot (a vanilla ice cream turned black as Burr’s heart with Madagascar vanilla) or Patrick Henry’s Give Me Chocolate or Give Me Death (chocolate ice cream with fudge, truffle and ganache).

It’s hard not to get lost in the romance of the revolutionary era, and a big part of my decision to dive headlong into the Liberty Bell was largely based on the fact that I could try 13 of Brooker’s signature flavors in one go.

In addition to housing 13 scoops of ice cream, the Liberty Bell Monumental Sundae also gets four scoops of toppings, four pumps of sauce, a foamy Everest of whipped cream, sprinkles—red, white and blue, of course—and a few cherries on top. It’s served in an upside-down Liberty Bell replica that is only slightly smaller than the one they have in Philly.

The current Herriman record for putting one of these bad boys down is 11 minutes and 29 seconds, and truth be told, I knew I wasn’t going to hit that mark—which is why I invited my daughter and some of her cousins along for the show.

Though I didn’t finish the beast in the allotted time to net me a free $80 sundae, I am proud to say that I put a considerable dent in the Liberty Bell before turning it over to my tiny relatives. Had there not been a time limit or a small band of kids who wanted a crack at a gigantic sundae, I think I could polish this thing off on a totally empty stomach—though I may not want to give that a try until this time next year, if at all.

Throughout the process of trying to devour a gigantic sundae in under 12 minutes, I did have a few ice-cream-related

revelations to share. First of all, I have to give a shoutout to how good Brooker’s ice cream is. When I first dug into the sundae, I got a lovely hit of John Hancock’s Signature Mint Chocolate Truffle; mint chocolate chip ice cream is a childhood favorite, so it felt right that this culminating experience started there. Digging deeper, I got into that black Madagascar vanilla and then some Give Me Chocolate or Give Me Death, each flavor impressively standing out against the rapidly melting sea of ice cream.

Those who want to try Brooker’s without attempting this mammoth challenge will be happy to know that their menu includes plenty of great signature sundaes. The Liberty Torch Sundae ($11), for example, gets you a waffle cone with two scoops of ice cream along with whipped cream and some roasted peanuts. My favorite signature sundae ($12) is called the Boston Massacre, and it features Crispus Attucks’ First Patriot Casualty Speculoos mixed with some John Adams’ Oh My Ooey Gooey Butter Cake and toffee bits. Perhaps it’s the way Brooker’s manages to stuff additional desserts into these particular ice cream flavors, or perhaps it’s the catchy title, but this one especially struck me as patriotically delicious.

While I don’t see myself downing 13 scoops of ice cream stuffed into a Liberty Bell replica any time soon, I was proud of myself for trying. After nearly 250 years of history that includes George Washington crossing the Delaware, Ben Franklin harnessing electricity and Donald Trump paying hush money to a porn star, I feel like I’ve finally done something worthy of my American forebears. CW

1048 E 2100 S Sugar House

2 Row Brewing

73 West 7200 South, Midvale 2RowBrewing.com

On Tap: Elderberry Blonde

Avenues Proper 376 8th Ave, SLC avenuesproper.com

On Tap: Limited Pride release, “Gei Effect”: a mango and pineapple Gose, 5%

Bewilder Brewing

445 S. 400 West, SLC BewilderBrewing.com

On Tap:  Cerveza De Mayo for Bewilder.

Bohemian Brewery 94 E. Fort Union Blvd, Midvale BohemianBrewery.com

On Tap: California Steam Lager

Bonneville Brewery 1641 N. Main, Tooele BonnevilleBrewery.com

On Tap: Peaches and Cream Ale

Chappell Brewing

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

On Tap: Crispy Boi - cerveza-ish Cream Ale

Craft by Proper

1053 E. 2100 So., SLC properbrewingco.com

On Tap: “Proper Yasuke” dark rice lager 5%, Mamachari Strawberry Serrano kombucha (NA)

Desert Edge Brewery

273 Trolley Square, SLC DesertEdgeBrewery.com

On Tap:  Ay Curuba! Curuba Sour

Epic Brewing Co.

825 S. State, SLC EpicBrewing.com

On Tap: Nectaron IPA

Etta Place Cidery

700 W Main St, Torrey www.ettaplacecider.com

On Tap: Stray Arrow Rosé Cider, Pineapple-Passion Fruit Session Mead

Fisher Brewing Co.

320 W. 800 South, SLC FisherBeer.com

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

Grid City Beer Works

333 W. 2100 South, SLC GridCityBeerWorks.com

On Tap: Cask Nitro CO2

Helper Beer

159 N Main Street, Helper, UT  helperbeer.com

Hopkins Brewing Co.

1048 E. 2100 South, SLC HopkinsBrewingCompany.com

On Tap: Pine Mountain Pale

Kiitos Brewing

608 W. 700 South, SLC KiitosBrewing.com

On Tap: Rimando IPA with Guava & Strawberry fruit isolates, Pale Ale with Simcoe & Amarillo hop terpenes

Level Crossing Brewing Co.

2496 S. West Temple, South Salt Lake LevelCrossingBrewing.com

On Tap: Sun Slope Sour Live Music every Sunday, 5 to 8pm

Level Crossing Brewing Co.,

POST

550 South 300 West, Suite 100, SLC

LevelCrossingBrewing.com

On Tap: Philly Sour Fruit Bat

Live Music every Saturday, 3 to 6pm

Moab Brewing

686 S. Main, Moab TheMoabBrewery.com

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

Mountain West Cider

425 N. 400 West, SLC MountainWestCider.com

On Tap: Carmel Apple- Sweet Green Apple

Offset Bier Co

1755 Bonanza Dr Unit C, Park City offsetbier.com/

On Tap: DOPO IPA

Ogden Beer Company

358 Park Blvd, Ogden OgdenBeerCompany.com

On Tap: Mastero of None Italian Pilsner

Park City Brewery 1764 Uinta Way C1 ParkCityBrewing.com

On Tap: Cold IPA dry hopped w/ Mosaic, Amarillo, and Chinook

Policy Kings Brewery

223 N. 100 West, Cedar City PolicyKingsBrewery.com

Prodigy Brewing 25 W Center St. Logan Prodigy-brewing.com

On Tap: Golden Hour Belgian Sour

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

Proper Brewing: Limited Pride release, “Gei Effect”: a mango and pineapple Gose, 5%

Proper Burger: “Whispers from Santa Maria” Helles lager with peach and jalapeno

Proper Brewing Moab 1393 US-191, Moab

properbrewingco.com

On Tap: “Bermuda Blonde” key-lime blonde ale 5%

Red Rock Brewing 254 So. 200 West RedRockBrewing.com

On Tap: Gypsy Scratch

Red Rock Fashion Place 6227 So. State Redrockbrewing.com

On Tap: Munich Dunkel

Red Rock Kimball Junction 1640 Redstone Center Redrockbrewing.com

On Tap: Bamberg Rauch Bier

RoHa Brewing Project 30 Kensington Ave, SLC RoHaBrewing.com

On Tap: False Prophet Hazy IPA

Roosters Brewing Multiple Locations RoostersBrewingCo.com

On Tap: Pineapple Sour Seltzer

SaltFire Brewing 2199 S. West Temple, South Salt Lake SaltFireBrewing.com On Tap: Eddy Out Imperial Pilsner

Salt Flats Brewing 2020 Industrial Circle, SLC SaltFlatsBeer.com On Tap: Luau Rider - Coconut Chocolate Milk Stout

Scion Cider Bar 916 Jefferson St W, SLC Scionciderbar.com

On Tap: Original Sin Pineapple Haze 6% ABV

Second Summit Cider 4010 So. Main, Millcreek secondsummitcider.com On Tap: Blueberry Amchur

Shades Brewing 154 W. Utopia Ave, South Salt Lake ShadesBrewing.beer

On Tap: Spring Fever Grapefruit Radler

Shades On State

366 S. State Street SLC Shadesonstate.com

On Tap: Salud Mexican Lager, Six Wheat Under Hefe

Silver Reef

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

Squatters Pub Brewery / Salt Lake Brewing Co.

147 W. Broadway, SLC saltlakebrewingco.com/ squatters

On Tap: Salt Lake Brewing Co. Vienna Lager

Squatters and Wasatch Brewery

1763 So 300 West SLC UT 84115 Utahbeers.com

On Tap: Holy Haze IPA 5% Love Local new release April 26

Strap Tank Brewery, Lehi 3661 Outlet Pkwy, Lehi, UT StrapTankBrewery.com

On Tap: ”Let’s Gose” [Gose with smoked salt, pineapple and lime]; “Yojimbo (The Wandering Ronan)” [Japanese Toasted Rice Lager with White Tea].

Strap Tank Brewery, Springville

596 S 1750 W, Springville, UT StrapTankBrewery.com

On Tap: My Beer My Choice (Dry Hopped American Sour w/pink boots blend), Cream Ale

TF Brewing

936 S. 300 West, SLC TFBrewing.com

On Tap: Watermelon Gose

Talisman Brewing Co. 1258 Gibson Ave, Ogden TalismanBrewingCo.com

On Tap: The Griffen- Citrus Wheat Ale in collaboration with the 419th at Hill AFB

Top of Main Brewery

250 Main, Park City, Utah topofmainbrewpub.com

On Tap: Top of Main Brewery Utah beer

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:  Top of Main Brewery Coalition Hellfire Chili Pepper Ale

Zion Brewery 95 Zion Park Blvd, Springdale ZionBrewery.com Zolupez

205 W. 29th Street #2, Ogden Zolupez.com

BEER NERD

Summer Squeezers

Two beers dripping with fun seasonal flavors

BY MIKE RIEDEL comments@cityweekly.net @utahbeer

Kiitos - Rimando Citrus: This new experimental version of Kiitos’ Rimando IPA features citrus terpenes, a highly aromatic compound that can add incredibly potent aromas and flavors to beer. One of the remarkable aspects of terpenes is their ability to mimic and intensify flavors found in various fruits, herbs and spices that they come from. In this particular beer, citrus terpenes were used—with excellent results. It poured a nice light-orange color that takes on more of a lighter pineapple hue when held to the light; nearly two fingers worth of off-white head died down to a thin ring that eventually faded away. The aroma starts off with a slightly high amount of medium sweetness, with the citrus being the first to show up, as it imparts welcome blends of fruity aromas that give it a pith-like feel. Up next comes a little bit of doughy yeast, followed by a light hop aroma. The taste seems to be similar to the aroma, but it’s a lot more citrus-forward. Up next comes some more sweetness, with the hops following to impart a generic hoppy flavor—a little bit of citrus and green. On the finish, there’s a moderate amount of bitterness with a little more sweetness, along with a bright orange-peel aftertaste. It’s smooth, refreshing, crisp and medium-bodied, with a moderate amount of carbonation.

Verdict: The terpenes here really take this beer to the next level, as the overall citrus profile absolutely comes off as natural. I could drink a couple of these

without getting bored with it. What I like least about this beer, however, is the balance; I wish more malts and hops came through to balance out the fruits, and make it feel not so shandy-like. I would buy this beer again when looking for a fruity beer, and I would recommend it to anyone else looking for the same.

Offset - The New Feels: The New Feels is a New World pilsner, drawing inspiration from the West Coast pils style that emerged from SoCal a few years back. It starts its life as a traditional pilsner with the enhancements of Callista, Anchovy and Superdelic hops.

There’s a nice pour to this as the liquid was a bright goldenrod; it’s a bit muted, but definitely not a cloudy beer. Tons of soft, spongy head topped this off quite lively and long-lasting. Melon is most dominant scent in the nose, with diesel and berries rounding it out. It’s quite aromatic.

More melon pops out in the palate at first swig, with grass coming up next and berries close behind. Soft and bright pilsner malt dominates the mid-palate, with a burst of citrus breaking out with a bit of extra life as you proceed towards the beer’s end. Not overly grassy, light, or diesel-like, this felt like a lively active West Coast pilsner. Session beer? You have a winner with this one, as a bit of fruit cocktail and apricot juice emerged once this fully warmed up.

Verdict: I was really impressed with this brew and how fun it was, as this was not a typical pilsner by any stretch. Those looking for a summer beer with more hops, less body and a taste off the beaten path would be wise to seek this out. Surprises like this are always worth the effort.

I found The New Feels at The Bayou in SLC, but you may also find it at Slackwater and, of course, at Offset’s Brewery in Park City. Rimando’s Citrus is a small batch that is only available on draft at Kiitos Brewing in SLC.

As always, cheers! CW

the BACK BURNER

BY ALEX SPRINGER | @captainspringer

Wine Spectator Recognizes Utah Restaurants

Wine Spectator recently released its 2024 Restaurant Awards, and there are quite a few Utah spots on the list. Every year, Wine Spectator conducts a survey of American restaurants that exhibit some degree of excellence in their wine lists, service and/or program. Among the local spots that nabbed a spot on Wine Spectator ’s list are Heber’s Courchevel Bistro, Park City’s Tupelo, Salt Lake’s VENETO Ristorante Italiano and St. George’s Painted Pony. Getting a spot on this list is a great honor for these restaurants, and it’s also a great way to see which local restaurant really knows their stuff when it comes to their wine menu.

Independence Day BBQ At Sundance Resort

Those itching to get their grill on, but not sure about doing all the prep work themselves, will want to check out the 4th of July Barbecue happening at Sundance Mountain Resort (sundanceresort.org). The menu includes main courses of smokehouse barbecue ribs, grilled beef bratwurst with mustard bacon jam and char-grilled burgers on brioche buns. Side dishes include mac and cheese, corn on the cob and brown sugar baked beans. Admission also nets diners a 50 percent discount on a lift ride, which is a great way to let all that tasty food digest. The event takes place on July 4 from 11:30 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Utah’s Favorite Fried Chicken Sandwich

There has been no shortage of fried-chicken-centric restaurants that have called Utah home, so it’s a bit surprising when you see that our favorite fried chicken sandwich still comes from Chick-fil-A. According to a recent survey from couponbirds.com, Chick-fil-A chicken sandwiches still reign supreme among Utah fast food diners. Utah joins most of the country in this preference as over half of the 2,000 Americans who participated voted Chick-fil-A as their favorite. Popeye’s came in second, with Wendy’s trailing at third place. With all the hubbub over fried chicken restaurants flooding our strip malls, it’s surprising that our local Chick-fil-A has managed to reign supreme when it comes to the fried chicken sando.

Quote of the Week: “Compromises are for relationships, not wine.” – Sir Robert Scott Caywood

THE BEEHIVE

Hotter Than July

Despicable Me 4 hits theaters, and this month’s special screenings

BY SCOTT RENSHAW scottr@cityweekly.net @scottrenshaw

Despicable Me 4 BB

I understand intuitively that what for me is a big problem with Despicable Me 4 might actually be the franchise distilled to its purest essence: It’s the stuff of a bunch of 5-minute short films packed together with only the vaguest sense that they belong in the same movie. Most superficially, it’s about Gru (Steve Carell) finding himself the target of a recently-escaped supervillain (Will Ferrell), necessitating him and the family—wife Lucy (Kristen Wiig), the three girls and their new baby—being given new identities in an upscale suburb. An animated version of My Blue Heaven certainly could work, and there’s a little material involving Gru’s discomfort in his new environs. But there are so many subplots thrown in here—little Agnes having a moral crisis over “lying” about having a new name; middle-schooler Margo (Miranda Cosgrove) dealing with a meangirl classmate; aforementioned mean girl (Joey King) blackmailing Gru into a heist; a bunch of Minions being given superpowers—that there’s no time to develop any of them beyond a scene or two. And that makes it fairly ridiculous that we’re expected to find any kind of emotional connection to whether Gru and Baby Gru Junior can bond. The Minion shenanigans are always good for a few giggles, and it’s clear that they’ve taken over top billing in the same way Scrat did for the Ice Age movies. It would just be nice if they didn’t have to wait to pile up 20 concepts for shorts and pretend that’s the same as an actual

CINEMA

JULY SPECIAL SCREENINGS

Sundance Film Festival Local Lens: While the long-term home of the Sundance Film Festival may now be something of a question mark, the Sundance Institute still treats Utah like home for the time being, including featuring festival films for free summer screenings. From July 17 – 21, multiple locations in Utah will host indoor and outdoor screenings of some of the most popular films from the 2024 Sundance Film Festival. The schedule includes Skywalkers: A Love Story (Red Butte Garden, July 17, 9 p.m.), Daughters (The Ray Theater, Park City, July 18, 7 p.m.), My Old Ass (Red Butte Garden, July 18, 9 p.m.), Your Monster (The Ray Theater, Park City, July 19, 7 p.m.), Sugarcane (Megaplex Valley Fair, July 20, 5:30 p.m.), Dìdi (Megaplex Valley Fair, July 20, 8:30 p.m.), Eno (City Park, Park City, July 20, 9 p.m.) and Layla (Broadway Centre Cinemas, July 20, 11 p.m.). Special audience choice offering 20 Feet from Stardom—the 2014 Academy Award Winner for Best Documentary—will be

showing at the Gallivan Center July 21 at 9:15 p.m. All screenings are free, but RSVP is required via a Sundance account. Visit festival.sundance.org to sign up and for additional information.

Utah Film Center Summer Outdoor Film Series: The Utah Film Center hosts free outdoor screenings at the east side of Liberty Park (600 E. 900 South) for five Fridays beginning July 12. The lineup includes 2013 Academy Award-winning documentary Searching for Sugar Man (July 12), the dramatic fantasy Nine Days (July 19), the Oscar-nominated animated feature Robot Dreams (July 26), local filmmaker short film showcase (Aug. 2), and the musical-theater adaptation Everyone’s Talking About Jamie (Aug. 9). Features begin at 8 p.m.; visit utahfilmcenter.org for RSVP and additional event information.

Dancing Joy @ Brewvies: The feature documentary Dancing Joy showcases an intriguing concept: What does it look like around the world when cultures choreograph their own unique dance

traditions to the same piece of music, Beethoven’s celebrated 9th Symphony “Ode to Joy.” The resulting film includes 21 cultures—in India, Fiji, Botswana, Greece, Scotland and many more—captured in 19 cities, requiring 56,000 miles of air travel. Among the participating companies is Salt Lake City’s own Tablado Dance flamenco dance group, and company representatives will join in a special screening of the film at Brewvies Cinema Pub (677 S. 200 West) on Monday, July 22 at 7p.m., along with the film’s producers. Visit brewvies.com for additional information.

$5 Reel Deals at Megaplex Theatres: Classic films on the big screen at a great price continue into July at Megaplex Theatres locations. Two Oscar-winners are currently on the schedule for July— Gladiator on Friday, July 5 and Saving Private Ryan on July 12—with all tickets just $5. Showtimes and theaters were not yet available at press time; visit megaplextheatres.com for additional information. CW

Music Mailbag

July 2024

Songs for your summer playlists

BY EMILEE ATKINSON eatkinson@cityweekly.net @emileelovesvinyl

F

olks either seem to really love the hot weather, or really hate it; there doesn’t seem to be much in between. I wholeheartedly fall into the latter category, which is why I’m always looking for things to do inside on an insanely hot summer day—like listening to a fresh playlist, or keeping up with the latest local releases. Here are some of the latest from your favorite locals. What you do while you’re listening to them is up to your discretion.

Stella Standingbear, “Paradise”: Stella Standingbear has been consistently dropping hit after hit since her debut single “Home Runs” in November 2022. She’s gotten nationwide recognition for her versatile sound, which mixes well with her emotion and experience to create a unique vibe. Her latest release, “Paradise,” is a perfect summer bop whether you’re hanging out inside with the AC or outside partying with friends. The song is catchy, upbeat and perfect for dancing or turning up to 11 to feel the bass. It’s streaming wherever you get your music.

Graveljaw Keaton, “that night, a forest grew”: Sometimes, the mood calls for some smooth instrumentals as the backing track for your activities. When you want tunes that won’t overpower your get-together, something in Graveljaw Keaton’s library might be just the ticket. His lo-fi Western-influenced

instrumentals provide a beautiful experience whether you’re listening passively or decide to throw on some headphones and listen more carefully. Either way, you’re getting a top-notch experience. Keaton’s latest release, “that night, a forest grew,” is an intriguing entry in the songwriter’s catalog. The best way to describe the track is “cozy;” its lo-fi feel is superb, but it also has those signature Graveljaw Keaton guitar melodies that pull you in and keep you coming back for more. Each time you listen to the track, you pick up on more licks that you didn’t hear the first time, and it keeps the track feeling fresh. This one is great for when you’re sipping drinks with your best friends—and it’s streaming everywhere.

Cutie, “Stick Around”: If you’re needing some bedroom pop for your summer jam playlist, look no further than Cutie’s latest single, “Stick Around.” The track’s name is pretty self-explanatory, but has a message many of us can relate to. “I want something to last / Stop moving way too fast / I want someone that just sticks around / Is that too much to ask?,” frontman Dylan Squire sings. If your summer has some heartbreak in it (which I hope it doesn’t), this may end up being your anthem. If you don’t, you can still enjoy the bedroom pop vibes “Stick Around” has to offer. Stream this new track and all of the other great songs Cutie has put out so far this year wherever you listen.

Thrash All Nations, “Vengeance”: If you’re the type who needs something heavy, you’ll want to stop by Thrash All Nations’ page and listen to their latest single, “Vengeance.” I won’t pretend to know the intricacies that define all of the different types of metal subgenres, but I will enjoy a loud, heavy and thrashing metal song when it comes across my screen—especially if it’s from some talented locals. “Vengeance” will have you out of your seat immediately with its opening

MUSIC

riff—you can hear that something good is coming. Then, of course, when everything comes in, you won’t be able to control your head and neck; you simply must start headbanging. If you need something that’s heavy and brings the energy, add “Vengeance” to your playlists wherever you stream.

Mindy Gledhill, “Pleased To Meet Me”: Provo singer/songwriter Mindy Gledhill released a new video for her single “Pleased To Meet Me,” which will make an appearance on her upcoming album The Phone Booth Sessions Vol. 1 later this fall. The album largely focuses on Gledhill’s decision to leave the Mormon faith.

“I’ve spent the last decade deconstructing the psychological effects of the high control religion I was raised in. This new chapter is one of “reconstruction” from the ground up—starting with my inner child,” she said. “One day, after a therapy session where my therapist introduced the concept of ‘Inner child work’ to me, I happened to stop in at an

antique store on my way home. I walked past an old phone booth. Like electricity, the idea came to me: ‘What if I converted that phone booth into a vocal booth, to call up my younger self and record songs for her that embodied the messages she always needed to hear?’ So I did just that, and the concept for ‘The Phone Booth Sessions’ was born.”

The “Pleased To Meet Me” video may look familiar to Utahns, as it was shot at The Casino Star in Gunnison and the Caine Lyric Theatre in Logan. It sees Gledhill looking at old movie footage of her childhood, and asking the question: If you could go back in time and send a message to your childhood self, what would your grown-up self say to heal your earliest inner wounds? The song and accompanying video comprise her orchestrally bespoke, heart-melting response to this tender, transformative question. Watch the video here, and be sure to watch for Gledhill’s new album in September.

No matter how you’re spending your summer, it’s important to have good music to do it. Be sure to add these locals to all your summer playlists. CW

Mindy Gledhill

THURSDAYS

FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS THE BEST HIP HOP IN SLC

SHARK SUNDAYS

POOL TOURNEY HOSTED BY TANNER

MONDAYS

REGGAE MONDAY WITH DJ NAPO

TUESDAYS

WEDNESDAYS KARAOKE

MUSIC PICK S

Troyboi @ Fear Factory 7/5

Troy Henry, AKA Troyboi, has that uncanny ability to seamlessly blend together multiple cultures. From his song “Mantra” to the more popular “Do You,” the unique combination of trap and bass is a homage to his Indian roots, while the Grime of “Say Yeah” is unique to his upbringing as a half-Nigerian South Londoner. The British DJ and producer has been on the scene since 2014, and is known for great energy during his sets, so expect the mix of trap, house, bass, dubstep and even vogue from songs like “PAPI CHULO,” “ili,” “Soundclash,” “My Boy,” “Bellz,” “WARLORDZ” and his newer songs like “Híbrido” and “Dhunga” from his newest EP, 4 ON DA FLOOR. And of course, there will be cheeky teasers of his best-known song—“Afterhours” featuring the legendary producer Diplo and singer Nina Sky—throughout the set. Troyboi has previously played in Utah at Das Energi, Electric Pow Wow and Get Freaky, but it will be a unique experience at Fear Factory with its industrial haunted-house vibe. If there’s one song that sums up Troyboi, it’s “B.I.A.”—an acronym for “bitch, I’m awesome”—and by the end of the set, I’m sure you will agree. Come dance along to Troyboi at Fear Factory presented by Mutiny Music Collective on Friday, July 5. There are still Tier 3 tickets available at $49.99; visit seetickets.us (Arica Roberts)

Troyboi

WEDNESDAY,

THURSDAY, JULY 4

Drive-By Truckers @ The Complex 7/5

Who says Southern rock can’t be musically and lyrically ambitious? Certainly not Patterson Hood, the driving force behind critical favorite Drive-By Truckers. The band has always paired incisive, thoughtful lyrics with their supercharged country-rock sound. From their 1998 debut, Gangstabilly to their latest album, 2022’s loosely autobiographical Welcome 2 Club XIII, the Athens, Georgia-based group has resolutely charted its own path. Son of Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section bassist David Hood, Patterson Hood is an acclaimed songwriter who takes on big themes while never forgetting to make hook-filled music that rocks. Highlights among the group’s body of work (14 studio albums and a fistful of captured-live releases) are many, but a widely-revered high point is 2001’s Southern Rock Opera. That 94-minute album initially fared modestly in the marketplace; it was released the day after 9/11, when the world had other things on its collective mind. But critics were—and remain—all but unanimous in their appreciation for the group’s fresh take on the concept album format as Southern Rock Opera wove a mythical story into an accessible and heartfelt narrative. The Drive-By Truckers’ current run of tour dates celebrates their early masterwork by reviving the album, performing it start to finish for the first time in decades (and likely the last time ever). Come see The Drive-By Truckers on Friday, July 5 at 7 p.m. Tickets to the Southern Rock Opera Revisited 2024 are $35 at tickets.thecomplexslc.com (Bill Kopp)

MUSIC PICK S

Video Game Rave @ Metro Music Hall 7/5

I love the feel of summer in video games, especially video game music. Video Game Rave should be a memorable night of nostalgia, beats and pixels, an event that feels tailor-made for those who keep the piano and orchestral albums of Final Fantasy VI on their phone at all times. Or those who have the Chrono Cross and Legend of Mana soundtracks in their car’s CD player. Or those who blast Chun-Li’s theme from Street Fighter III: Third Strike, “China Vox” as loud as they can. That latter one is drum-and-bass awesomeness; it really gets the blood pumping. I’m looking forward to the bleeps and bloops, the focused energy of mash-ups and electric medleys of iconic video game sure-shots. Sure, listening to the theme from Mario Kart 64’s “Koopa Troopa Beach” makes me want to sit on the sand, sip a Mai Tai and watch people throw turtle shells at each other. It’s very relaxing. However, when the roof needs to be raised, then go ahead and dress up in your favorite video-game cosplay and let the virtual and real worlds synergize at the Video Game Rave. It’s not just a party; it’s a quest for the final boss … errr, the highest of high scores of excitement. Also, the correct answer for any video game set list is always any selection from Donkey Kong Country 2. Catch this event at Metro Music Hall on Friday, July 5. Doors at 8 p.m. Tickets for the 21+ show are $20 at 24tix.com (Mark Dago)

Lyle Lovett and His Large Band @ Red Butte Garden 7/10

Lyle Lovett boasts a sweeping Texas heritage, one shared with the likes of Guy Clark, Willie Nelson and Townes Van Zandt. Never confined to one particular niche—be it country, jazz, swing or balladry—Lovett has effectively avoided becoming a one-trick pony, despite his obvious affection for horses and all things equestrian. His ability to shift his stance, while still maintaining audience engagement, factors into an ability to write and sing songs that convey the full gamut of emotion. And his talent isn’t confined to making music—he’s also made his mark as an actor of fine repute. Nevertheless, his parched vocals impart an unwavering emotion that belies the casual caress and unfettered humor that’s part and parcel of his performances. His tattered yet touching delivery allows his songs to sink in below the skin and leave an indelible impression. On the other hand, he’s naturally upbeat and seemingly spontaneous in concert, particularly in the company of his aptly-named Large Band—which is, in fact, an all-star ensemble. That sentiment is an integral element of Lovett’s taste and charm, and yet, true to his Everyman image, there’s nothing high-minded about him. His only goal seems to be providing his audience with pure entertainment, leaving them laughing, charmed and looking forward to seeing this famously big-haired cowboy stride across the stage yet again.

Lyle Lovett and His Large Band play at Red Butte Garden at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 10. Tickets cost $64 (General Admission) and $59 (Red Butte Garden member) at etix.com. (Lee Zimmerman)

Hop Presents: Bitter Blue with Dr. Teeth, Nowhere Lane @ Kilby Court 7/10

It’s important to encourage young folks who enjoy interacting with media. They’re the future, and we want to be sure their curious minds are able to flourish, no matter their background. That’s exactly why SLC’s Spy Hop does what it does. The local digitalmedia arts center nonprofit offers in-school, after-school, summer camp, youth-in-care and satellite programming for students ages 9-19 of all skill levels and aspirations in film, music, audio and design. Their mission is to mentor young people in the media arts to help them to find their voice, tell their stories and effect positive change in their lives, communities and the world. Bitter Blue is a new band who have written music under the mentorship of folks at Spy Hop. They’ve recorded an album as well, which isn’t out quite yet, but seeing the band play their new stuff live will be a treat. There are a few bands on the bill who will be supporting Bitter Blue, including SLC trio Dr. Teeth and newbies Nowhere Lane. Come support some talented young folks who are getting off to a great start in their music careers on Wednesday, July 10 at 7 p.m. Tickets for the all-ages show are $10 and can be found at 24tix.com. (Emilee Atkinson)

Spy

free will ASTROLOGY

BY ROB BREZSNY

ARIES (March 21-April 19)

The “nirvana fallacy” is the belief that because something is less than utterly perfect, it is gravely defective or even irredeemably broken. Wikipedia says, “The nirvana fallacy compares actual things with unrealistic, idealized alternatives.” Most of us are susceptible to this flawed approach to dealing with the messiness of human existence. But it’s especially important that you avoid such thinking in the coming weeks. To inspire you to find excellence and value in the midst of untidy jumbles and rumpled complexities, I recommend you have fun with the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi. It prizes and praises the soulful beauty found in things that are irregular, incomplete and imperfect.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20)

You are coming to a fork in the road where two paths diverge. What should you do? Author Marie Forleo says, “When it comes to forks in the road, your heart always knows the answer, not your mind.” Here’s my corollary: Choose the path that will nourish your soul’s desires. Here’s your homework: Contact your Future Self in a dream or meditation and ask that beautiful genius to provide you with a message and a sign. Plus, invite them to give you a wink with either the left eye or right eye.

GEMINI

(May 21-June 20)

Last year, you sent a clear message to life requesting help and support. It didn’t get the response you wished for. But now I have good news. One or both of the following may soon occur: 1. Your original message will finally lead to a response that buoys your soul; 2. You will send out a new message similar to the one in 2023, and this time you will get a response that makes you feel helped and supported. Maybe you didn’t want to have to be so patient, Gemini, but I’m glad you refused to give up hope.

CANCER (June 21-July 22)

The Fates have authorized me to authorize you to be bold and spunky. You have permission to initiate gutsy experiments and to dare challenging feats. Luck and grace will be on your side as you consider adventures you’ve long wished you had the nerve to entertain. Don’t do anything risky or foolish, of course. Avoid acting like you’re entitled to grab rewards you have not yet earned. But don’t be self-consciously cautious or timid, either. Proceed as if help and resources will arrive through the magic of your audacity. Assume you will be able to summon more confidence than usual.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22)

All of us, including me, have aspects of our lives that are stale or unkempt, even decaying. What would you say is the most worn-out thing about you? Are there parts of your psyche or environment that would benefit from a surge of clean-up and revival? The coming weeks will be an excellent time to attend to these matters. You are likely to attract extra help and inspiration as you make your world brighter and livelier. The first rule of the purgation and rejuvenation process: Have fun!

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

On those rare occasions when I buy furniture online, I try hard to find sources that will send me the stuff already assembled. I hate spending the time to put together jumbles of wood and metal. More importantly, I am inept at doing so. In alignment with astrological omens, I recommend you take my approach in regard to every situation in your life during the coming weeks. Your operative metaphor should be this: Whatever you want or need, get it already fully assembled.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

When Adragon De Mello was born under the sign of Libra in 1976, his father had big plans for him. Dad wanted him to get a PhD in physics by age 12, garner a Nobel Prize by 16, get elected President of the United States by

26, and then become head of a world government by 30. I’d love for you to fantasize about big, unruly dreams like that in the coming weeks—although with less egotism and more amusement and adventurousness. Give yourself a license to play with amazing scenarios that inspire you to enlarge your understanding of your own destiny. Provide your future with a dose of healing wildness.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

“Your horoscopes are too complicated,” a reader wrote to me recently. “You give us too many ideas. Your language is too fancy. I just want simple advice in plain words.” I wrote back to tell her that if I did what she asked, I wouldn’t be myself. “Plenty of other astrologers out there can meet your needs,” I concluded. As for you, dear Scorpio, I think you will especially benefit from influences like me in the coming weeks—people who appreciate nuance and subtlety, who love the poetry of life, who eschew clichés and conventional wisdom, who can nurture your rich, spicy, complicated soul.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

The coming weeks will be prime time for you to reimagine the history of your destiny. How might you do that? In your imagination, revisit important events from the past and reinterpret them using the new wisdom you’ve gained since they happened. If possible, perform any atonement, adjustment or intervention that will transform the meaning of what happened once upon a time. Give the story of your life a fresh title. Rename the chapters. Look at old photos and videos and describe to yourself what you know now about those people and situations that you didn’t know back then. Are there key events from the old days that you have repressed or ignored? Raise them up into the light of consciousness.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

In 1972, before the internet, Capricorn actor Anthony Hopkins spent a day visiting London bookstores in search of a tome: The Girl from Petrovka . Unable to locate a copy, he decided to head home. On the way, he sat on a random bench, where he found the original manuscript of The Girl of Petrovka . It had been stolen from the book’s author George Feifer and abandoned there by the thief. I predict an almost equally unlikely or roundabout discovery or revelation for you in the coming days. Prediction: You may not unearth what you’re looking for in an obvious place, but you will ultimately unearth it.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

Aquarius-born Desmond Doss (1919–2006) joined the American army at the beginning of World War II. But because of his religious beliefs, he refused to use weapons. He became a medic who accompanied troops to Guam and the Philippines. During the next few years, he won three medals of honor, which are usually given solely to armed combatants. His bravest act came in 1944, when he saved the lives of 70 wounded soldiers during a battle. I propose we make him your inspirational role model for the coming weeks, Aquarius. In his spirit, I invite you to blend valor and peace-making. Synergize compassion and fierce courage. Mix a knack for poise and healing with a quest for adventure.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20)

What types of people are you most attracted to, Pisces? Not just those you find most romantically and sexually appealing, but also those with whom a vibrant alliance is most gracefully created. And those you’re inclined to seek out for collaborative work and play. This knowledge is valuable information to have; it helps you gravitate toward relationships that are healthy for you. Now and then, though, it’s wise to experiment with connections and influences that aren’t obviously natural—to move outside your usual set of expectations and engage with characters you can’t immediately categorize. I suspect the coming weeks will be one of those times.

urban LIVING

Drive-In Days

When’s the last time you went to a drive-in movie? It’s quickly becoming a form of entertainment that exists only in our memories, especially in the Salt Lake Valley as the infamous Redwood Drive-In and Swap Meet may soon face the wrecking ball.

According to the New York Film Academy, there were drive-ins in this country as early as the 1910s; however, the first “patented” drive-in was opened in 1933 in New Jersey by a man who created a mini drive-in for his mother and who sought a solution for people unable to comfortably fit into smaller movie theater seats.

His approach was an instant success and soon, more drive-ins appeared in every state of the country and around the world. Boomers like me grew up with parents packing up the car with blankets, pillows and lawn chairs and motoring over to the drive-in, sometimes for a double feature.

My mother loved the movies and would take us often. But when a movie was slightly racy, she would have us get down on the floor of the station wagon until that scene passed.

In 1949, just after WWII, the Redwood Drive-In Theaters opened on the west side of Redwood Road, just south of 3300 South. It cost $140,000 to create the 40-by-60 foot screen, driveup speaker poles, the concession stand and amenities like a playground, BBQ pits, wading pools, a train and pony rides. The designers created space for up to 600 cars and designed a big light fixture called the “magic moonglow,” which gave you the idea that there was a full moon every night and it could help you walk in the dark to the restrooms or to get popcorn.

The first movie shown there was The Big Cat. In 1990, the drive-in expanded to a six-screen theater and in 1994, a nighttime fire destroyed the main screen. But patrons continued to come, as they do today, and have enjoyed selling and shopping at the Saturday and Sunday swap meets there since 1960, with hundreds of booths each weekend to peruse.

The land (25 acres) is now owned by a Californian firm and the building company EDGEhomes plans to tear down the screens and build condos, townhomes and single-family houses there instead.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

ACROSS

1. Roast battle hosts, for short

4. Bumble profile maintainers?

8. Flight seat option

13. “___ y Plata” (Montana motto)

14. Actress Mitra of “The Practice”

16. National prefix

17. Lead character of “24”

19. Feeling regret

20. Early Peruvian

21. Nursery rhyme pie fillers (“four and twenty”, they say)

23. Connect with

25. Barely achieve

26. Rowboat implement

27. George Burns title role

29. Impersonated

30. Spot for a soak

33. Big name in circuses

36. Loads

37. Ratio that’s often 24 for film cameras

42. Like some salad dressings

43. Stracciatella, e.g.

44. 7’7” former NBAer Manute

45. “___ the Walrus” (1967 Beatles tune)

48. Uno plus uno

49. Talk trash about

52. Removes names from pictures, on some social media platforms

54. To the letter

56. Units where 24 = 100%

60. Poodle plaguer

61. Remain patient

62. The NBA sets it at 24

64. Penny-pincher

65. Vietnamese capital

66. Burns downvote?

67. Planetarium display

68. ___ baby (one who’s famous via family connections)

69. Pre-album drops

DOWN

1. Mint-garnished cocktail

2. They surround brains

3. Goal-oriented item?

4. Royal sphere

5. Obsessive whale hunter of fiction

6. Biffed it

7. Creep around

8. “He’s right. Ain’t no rule that says a dog can’t play basketball” movie

9. Arctic First Nations resident

10. Make Kool-Aid

11. Give for a bit

12. Rowing machine units

15. Took a curved path

18. “WandaVision” actress Dennings

22. Pond fish

24. Fairy tale meanie

28. Come-___ (enticements)

30. Was the odd one out

31. “___ de Replay” (Rihanna’s first single)

32. Joining word

34. Actress Adams

35. Sister of Chris and Stewie

36. Division for “Hamlet” or “Hamilton”

37. Keyless car key

38. Duran Duran hit of 1982

39. Former Viacom chairman Sumner

40. ___-pitch softball

41. Reduce

45. Comic book artists

46. ___ standstill

47. Swampland

50. Polar covering

51. They may never have been higher

52. Part that the ointment Bag Balm was designed for

53. Depeche Mode lead singer David

55. Short-lived gridiron org. revived in 2020

57. “In memoriam” piece

58. Simpson who got into crosswords around 2008

59. Word before “Hammer time!”

63. A.F.L. merger partner

Last week’s answers

The West Valley Planning Commission last week passed the request for zoning changes despite thousands of signatures gathered by swap meet vendors and locals to preserve the property as-is. It will now be up to the City Council to approve the zoning change from a purely commercial property to one that allows housing.

I’d suggest moving the swap meet to the underutilized State Fairgrounds to preserve the culture and commerce that’s been a part of the Salt Lake Valley for decades. I encourage you to go to the drive-in and the swap meet before gentrification erases this piece of our culture. There are less than 300 driveins left in this country with more being torn down every day. n

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.

56. Legs, in film noir monologues

NEWS of the WEIRD

Mistaken Identity

Alexander Morris, 53, filed a lawsuit against Ascension Macomb-Oakland Hospital in Warren, Michigan, on June 10 over an incident that took place last year, NBC News reported. Morris, the lead singer of the Motown group the Four Tops, went to the hospital with “clear symptoms of cardiac distress” in April 2023. While there, Morris told the nurses and security staff that he was concerned about stalkers and fans—but they didn’t believe that he was with the Four Tops and ordered a psychological examination, which delayed his treatment. Morris was physically restrained, he said, for at least 1 and 1/2 hours—”a terrifying experience to be in the middle of a medical emergency,” Morris said. The suit, which seeks $75,000 in damages, alleges negligence, racial discrimination, battery and intentional infliction of emotional distress. Morris’ ordeal finally ended when he showed a nurse a video of him performing at the Grammys. He was offered a $25 gift card to a Meijer grocery store as an apology, which he refused. “I never imagined I would become a victim of ‘being sick while Black,’” Morris said. The hospital had no comment on the suit.

What Could Go Wrong?

Calling Agent 99! Samsung is channeling the 1960s TV series Get Smart with its newest tech release: the Shortcut Sneaker, with which one can make phone calls. Gizmodo reported that the phone is operated with discrete foot movements, recognized by motion sensors in the soles. Sadly, you’re not likely to get your dogs into them anytime soon: The company is making just six pairs, available only to Samsung members in the Netherlands who enter to win by July 9.

Weird in the Wild

Scientists studying African elephants at Kenya’s Samburu National Reserve and Amboseli National Park have discovered that the pachyderms call to each other and respond to one another using individual names, the Associated Press reported on June 10. The names are expressed in low rumbles that can be heard over long distances—by elephants. Many of the noises are low enough not to be heard by humans. When scientists played recordings to individual elephants, they responded energetically to those that contained their names. “Elephants are incredibly social, always talking and touching each other,” said research co-author George Wittemyer. “We just cracked open the door a bit to the elephant mind.”

The Passing Parade

As part of the annual Italian Market Festival in Philadelphia, one contest involves competitors climbing a greased pole to claim bags of meat and cheese

tied at the top, United Press International reported. This year, however, the dangling delectables were left hanging, and nearly a month later, they’re still there. Festival organizers are trying to arrange for a crane to gather the leftovers, which visitors claim aren’t stinky—yet. With the oncoming heat dome across the United States, that might change.

Just

Couldn’t Help Herself

Tara Bjork, a server at Charlotte, North Carolina’s Restoration Hardware Rooftop Restaurant, knew she was overstepping the rules on May 27 when she posted a video to TikTok while at work. “I need you guys to see what just came in the door,” she said to the camera before panning to a table where a man was sitting across from a blow-up doll. Canoe.com reported that Bjork observed him “feeding” grapes to the doll, but later it was revealed that the man had finished last in his fantasy football league and the restaurant visit was his punishment. Bjork was fired from the restaurant for making the post but said it “wasn’t too much of a shock, thank goodness.”

But Why?

State Rep. Jim Carroll of Bennington, Vermont, released two videos to local news outlets in June depicting his colleague, Rep. Mary Morrissey, pouring water into Carroll’s tote bag as it hung on a hook in his office, NBC5-TV reported. The incidents took place in April. “I want to say how very, very sorry I am for my actions of pouring water in Jim Carroll’s tote bag,” Morrissey said. “Quite honestly, I don’t know why I did it. I was not meaning to hurt him.” Carroll decided to release the video, which he took, because he believed not doing so would draw even more attention to the events. Speaker of the House Jill Krowinski told Morrissey, who’s been a member of the House since 1997, that she would not be eligible to serve on conference committees.

What’s in a Name?

Here’s a term you might not know: A “cryptic pregnancy” occurs when a woman is pregnant but doesn’t realize it until labor begins. So it went with Tayvia Woodfork, 26, of Mississippi, who experienced stomach pains while dining at a Golden Corral restaurant in North Little Rock, Arkansas, on May 6. Fox News reported that Woodfork went to the restroom, where she delivered 6-pound Tamaar Kylon Corral Woodfork, a boy. Yes, that third name is a tribute to the restaurant. Golden Corral shared news of the birth on their Facebook page and even gifted the new mom a $200 gift card, among other items.

Send your weird news items to WeirdNewsTips@amuniversal.com

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Linda Ronstadt