City Weekly September 28, 2023

CHOOSE

A delayed election sees Salt Lake’s mayor and three City Council members fighting to stay in office.

BY BENJAMIN WOOD

Cover

S AP

Standing Against Hate

This morning, our community experienced a despicable act of hatred in the form of a bomb threat to a family-friendly Drag Storytime at the King’s English Bookshop in the 15th & 15th district. Out of an abundance of caution and to keep staff, customers and the community safe, the bookstore closed for the day. We see this as a crime rooted in hate. Our police department is the largest and most thoroughly equipped police department in the state, and we trust they will do everything they can to bring the

criminals who targeted our city in this way to justice.

This isn’t the only act of crime or intimidation that has occurred in our community this year, endangering children, families and residents. From the destruction of Pride flags at homes in the Central Ninth District to the acts of intimidation outside Tea Zaanti’s all-ages drag show, we strongly condemn behavior that threatens the many diverse communities that make Salt Lake the welcoming and thriving city it is.

We stand firm in our community’s values of diversity, inclusion, belonging and the freedom to express one’s true self. Drag is an art form that furthers these values and creates safe spaces to celebrate our differences and proudly share who we are.

We are grateful for the businesses, artists and community members who bravely and visibly continue standing up to hate so people of all kinds can feel they belong here. Our city is for everyone, and we will continue to support art and events that boldly proclaim the same.

We invite all members of our community who have not experienced drag culture to one of the many family-friendly drag shows that happen throughout Salt Lake City so you can see for yourself that this is an art form focused on love and inclusion.

SALT LAKE CITY COUNCIL

Statement issued on Sunday, Sept. 24

Don’t Look Up

Scientists the world over want to study a few ounces of dust and pebbles taken from a 4.5 billion-years-old asteroid. That sample just parachuted down from outer space to “Utah’s desert,” known locally as Dugway.

The location of the historic “sample” landing is ironic, since many of Utah’s citizens—and certainly the majority of their ancestors—were taught that “the heavens and the Earth” were created only 7,000 or so years ago. In addition, church educators have been advised to turn their eyes away from modern, non-denominational Bible commentaries in preparation for their Sunday school lessons.

The reason? Those biblical studies encyclopedias might not always take the literalist approach to scripture that the church has long preferred, like—for example—when it has admonished that the world was created in just seven days.

Science and outer space droppings are literally raining down on Utah, where the population still may not be ready or willing to believe that what is “out there” has been around for a while.

KIMBALL SHINKOSKEY

Woods Cross

“... Ralph Becker Endorses Erin Mendenhall,” Sept. 20 online news

Well, that’s certainly not going to help her.

ERIC FERGUSON

Via Facebook

The two best mayors I worked for during my time at the city.

BRYAN YOUNG

Via Facebook

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THE WATER COOLER

What part of Salt Lake City have you never set foot in?

Benjamin Wood

I can’t quite claim every street (like former columnist Bryant Heath), but I can say I’ve been in every SLC neighborhood.

Larry Carter

After working as City Weekly circulation manager for more than 15 years, there isn’t a part of SLC I’ve never been in.

Wes Long

I’ve never actually been to concerts at Vivint or USANA, and I’ve never walked around on the roof of the LDS Conference Center.

Kelly Boyce

I’ve never been in any building at Westminster or SLCC even though I used to live directly across from Westminster.

Paula Saltas

Haven’t made it to the Tablernacle Choir at Temple Square to hear them sing.

Derek Carlisle

Gilgal Gardens has not seen the likes of me and might never get the chance. Just a bit on the LDS creep-o-meter for me.

Jerre Wroble

Haven’t visited the site of the inland port or developments like the new prison. I guess they’re counting on our lack of familiarity to make the port happen.

BY KEITH BURNS

Right-wing Reckoning U

nbeknownst to many of its members, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints enjoyed significant political diversity throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, with a relatively even distribution of members across major political parties. But with the rise of FDR’s welfare state during the Great Depression, LDS leaders began staking conservative positions in opposition to “handouts” they felt disincentivized work and increased dependency.

Several decades later, LDS conservatism would only deepen with the rise of the civil rights, counterculture and sexual-liberation movements, which leaders characterized as hedonistic, satanic and destructive. In addition, anticommunist sentiments wrapped in McCarthyist conspiracies caught hold of LDS apostles like Ezra Taft Benson, who regularly crusaded his right-wing views at the pulpit.

Throughout the 1980s and ’90s, LDS apostles—including former President Gordon B. Hinckley—grew increasingly uncomfortable with the church’s intimate relationship with right-wing politics and made subtle efforts to move the church to the center right. They did this by de-emphasizing right-wing talking points and amplifying language around political neutrality, while framing their stances on marriage, sexuality and gender as moral and spiritual positions.

Despite leaders’ earnest efforts to untether from the far right, major factions of right-wing extremism continue to plague the modern church. Today, LDS authorities are anxiously facing and delicately addressing this reality, striving to protect the church’s public image while not alienating large and powerful bases of right-wing membership.

The church’s recent condemnation of former Operation Underground Railroad (OUR) CEO Tim Ballard, a devout Latter-day Saint, is a prime example of this tension. Founded in 2013, OUR is an anti-human trafficking nonprofit that conducts sting operations aimed at rescuing victims and arrest-

ing perpetrators. While the mission is admirable, reporting by outlets like Vice News and American Crime Journal have spotlighted Ballard’s ethical and behavioral problems.

These include OUR’s gross misrepresentations of rescue statistics, claiming credit for the work of other antitrafficking organizations, providing insufficient aftercare services for rescued victims and mixing nonprofit funds with for-profit endeavors. Ballard has also been an ardent advocate of right-wing extremist movements, perpetuating anti-immigrant and anti-LGBTQ hate speech as well as fomenting election denialism and deep-state conspiracies.

Most recently, Ballard stepped down as OUR’s CEO in the wake of sexual harassment allegations from women who participated in sting operations. According to Vice, numerous women have relayed deeply disturbing accounts of Ballard coercing them into unwanted sexual acts (e.g., sleeping in the same bed, showering together), as part of going undercover as “husband and wife” on rescue operations.

Vice News recently requested comment from the LDS church, to which an official spokesperson for the church, Doug Anderson, responded: “[Quorum of the Twelve Apostles] President [M. Russell] Ballard and Tim Ballard (no relation) established a friendship a number of years ago. That friendship was built on a shared interest in looking after God’s children wherever they are and without regard to their circumstance. However, that relationship is in the past. … Once it became clear Tim Ballard had betrayed their friendship, through the unauthorized use of President Ballard’s name for Tim Ballard’s personal advantage and activity regarded as morally unacceptable, President Ballard withdrew his association.”

It is extremely rare for the LDS church to publicly criticize one of its members like this, even someone of Ballard’s prominence. Also noteworthy, the church statement went on to state that leaders had never “endorsed, supported or represented OUR, Tim Ballard or any projects associated with them.” This assertion does not align with the fact that the church’s own websites and news outlets published hundreds of pieces supporting and promoting Tim Ballard and OUR. There is also extensive evidence documenting a longstanding business relationship between President Ballard and Tim Ballard as partners in an LLC called Slave Stealers.

The church’s false or misleading statements aside, their unequivocal condemnation of Tim Ballard has confused and

upset members who have long been his loyal supporters. In fact, many are questioning the authenticity of the official church statement and/or discrediting the report from Vice News altogether. Tim Ballard himself undermined Vice News’ report by asserting that “nothing you hear is true” and that “something evil is going on.”

While LDS leaders clearly disavow Tim Ballard and his reprehensible behavior, they cannot afford to alienate scores of right-wing members who revere him. This tension is not new. For example, when LDS President Russell Nelson urged all members to get vaccinated, there was outcry from right-wing members of the church who criticized Nelson’s judgment and disobeyed his statements. Some even left the church over this issue, declaring that Nelson and the modern LDS organization were in a state of apostasy.

Dallin Oaks—first counselor in the LDS First Presidency and known for his conservative image—has similarly made statements that have upset right-wing bases of the church. In a 2020 address at Brigham Young University, Oaks said: “Of course Black lives matter! That is an eternal truth all reasonable people should support.” He also gave a General Conference address calling for the peaceful transition of power and denouncing any efforts to disrupt such a transition, which was poorly received by members who felt that former President Donald Trump’s efforts to overturn a “stolen” 2020 election were patriotic and heroic.

In past decades, the church has branded its image on forceful condemnations of the left, most notably socialjustice movements that have advocated for racial, gender and LGBTQ+ civil rights. While they have lost a fair share of progressive members because of this, it has never disrupted large coalitions of membership that would fundamentally threaten the church’s power and status.

Today, as leaders strive to distance themselves from right-wing figures like Tim Ballard (and MAGA whitesupremist politics and conspiracies more broadly), they are highly reluctant and cautious not to alienate hundreds of thousands of loyal members. Tim Ballard is just one of many more examples to come, in which the church must face head on this crucial and perplexing dilemma. CW

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HITS & MISSES

BY BENJAMIN WOOD | @bjaminwood

HIT: The Harder They Fall

Did you hear about the “parenting influencer” accused of child abuse? Or how about the anti-sex trafficking warrior accused of sexual misconduct?

It’s been a rough couple of weeks for the Utah internet famous, and in the case of Tim Ballard, the recently ousted founder of Operation Underground Railroad (OUR), various allegations of impropriety led The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to issue a rare public condemnation. There’s a tight overlap in the Venn diagram of OUR supporters and the LDS faithful, a tension Ballard attempted to use to his advantage by casting aspersions on the legitimacy of the church’s statement against him. But while it took Vice to break the Ballard story, local churchowned Deseret News was among the outlets independently corroborating that the call did, in fact, come from inside Temple Square. But don’t worry, Ballard will have ample opportunity to tell his side of things during an anticipated campaign for U.S. Senate.

MISS: Stay on Target

Lawmakers had a busy trip to St. George recently, where they conducted interim meetings and were briefed on a troubling audit of “critical vulnerabilities” facing the state’s long-term stability. Fox 13 reported on a list of challenges presented to legislative leaders, which included housing affordability, education funding, mental health and suicide and, of course, the declining Great Salt Lake and its corresponding dust storms filled with arsenic. But upon the news that Kaysville Republican and Utah House Speaker Brad Wilson is resigning to run for U.S. Senate and will most likely be succeeded on the dais by Hooper Republican Rep. Mike Schultz, Schultz was quick to relay his top priorities for the chamber to the Standard-Examiner : Further attacking transgender girls and women through sports, bathroom and health care bans. “Our kids and our grandkids, honestly, is what motivates me,” Schultz said. Uh-huh, sure.

MISS: Campus Security

Another major Utah school district has been slapped for failing to protect its students. First, Davis School District—the second largest in the state— was found to have dropped the ball on widespread and institutionalized racism that contributed to a child’s death. Now, a federal review of Alpine School District—Utah’s largest—suggests that personnel failed to properly investigate and respond to hundreds of student reports of sexual assault, and in some cases allowed accused teachers to quietly retire, The Salt Lake Tribune reports. Once upon a time, each of the big districts would have had their own beat reporter assigned from the statewide dailies to help keep an eye on things. Those days are long gone, and you can’t help but wonder where administrative negligence will next be revealed by federal investigators.

Stop UDOT

BY BENJAMIN WOOD bwood@cityweekly.net

The Utah Department of Transportation is moving ahead with its expansion plans for Interstate 15, which will widen the freeway by adding lanes between Salt Lake City and Farmington. This will cost billions of taxpayer dollars and jettison residents from their homes, while the observable phenomenon known as “Induced Demand” suggests that all we’ll have bought with our time and money is worse traffic and pollution than before.

Here’s just a few of the ways Utah could spend that money instead:

• Finish the still-unfinished FrontRunner line between Provo and Ogden.

• Extend the FrontRunner line to Payson and Brigham City.

• Start a new FrontRunner line (LakeRunner?) between Tooele and Park City.

• Build mixed-use, affordable housing and retail on the typically empty surface parking that surrounds FrontRunner stations (fun fact: you don’t need to drive to the train if you already live close to the train).

• Extend the Trax Blue Line to Point of the Mountain (UTA already owns this right of way, and it’s spectacular. Our wise state planners prefer a lesser service on a lesser route).

• Extend the Trax Red Line to Herriman/Riverton.

• Extend the S-Line Streetcar to Sugar House Park.

• Extend the S-Line Trail to Central Pointe Station.

• Complete the Trax Green Line loop to give westsiders a direct connection to the airport.

• Add a Trax stop on 1700 South.

• Add an east-west Trax line on 1300 South.

• Add a Trax line on 900 East.

• Add a Trax line on 900 West.

• Add a Trax line north into Davis County.

• Add a Trax line literally anywhere outside Salt Lake County.

• Run Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) on State Street.

• Run BRT on 700 East.

• Run BRT on Redwood Road.

• Run BRT on Foothill Drive.

• Install Lead Pedestrian Intervals (LPI) at our deadliest intersections (we know where they are).

• Give trains proper signal prioritization so they aren’t held up at red lights.

• Push Union Pacific to let Salt Lake City finish the 9-Line Trail (costs very little to make a phone call).

• Push Union Pacific to let Salt Lake City finish the Folsom Trail (100 phone calls costs the same as 1).

• Build raised crossings everywhere the Jordan River Trail interacts with a surface street.

• Bury Union Pacific’s freight lines and Frontrunner in a train box and reactivate the historic Rio Grande Depot.

• Go Free Fare Forever.

• Build a gondola up Little Cottonwood Canyon. Sure, it’s an outrageously expensive and comically shortsighted idea … but it’s still not as stupid as freeway expansion! CW

Small Lake City is home to local writers and their opinions.

A&E

Booking Arrangements

After nearly four years, Ken Sanders looks to put the finishing touches on his collection’s new home

BY SCOTT RENSHAW scottr@cityweekly.net @scottrenshaw

Approximately 2-1/2 weeks before the scheduled grand opening of Ken Sanders Underground, it feels like there’s a lot of work yet to do. A carpenter works loudly in one corner of the basement space at The Leonardo; the entry hallway outside the elevator is bare floor with a stack of carpet squares waiting to be installed. A joke about the way home improvement shows edit for maximum drama to suggest everything was finished at the last second is greeted by Ken Sanders—the veteran Salt Lake City bookseller—with a wry laugh. “I’m afraid we’re going to be like that,” he says, “only it’s not going to be staged.”

The ongoing construction is only part of the moving pains Sanders still experiences after nearly three years in his digs at The Leonardo, including arranging parking for his patrons, or even how to turn the lights on when he’s there to work outside of The Leonardo’s operating hours. “I though there would be only 100 things I’d go in not knowing how to do; it’s in the thousands,” Sanders says.

Nevertheless, it also feels a bit like the home stretch for a process that began in 2019, when Sanders first turned to The

Leonardo as a possible alternative to the retail store on 200 South that Ken Sanders Rare Books has occupied for more than 25 years. There weren’t many alternatives in terms of affordable space for a book collection so expansive that Sanders doesn’t even know how many volumes it contains.

“I have a million dollars’ insurance,” he says. “It’s probably not enough.”

The Ken Sanders Underground space allows for an extension of the 1650 square feet of retail space Sanders occupies on The Leonardo’s main floor. Sanders will christen it with a grand opening celebration on Sept. 30 that will feature the participation of Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall, musician Kate McLeod, poet Alex Caldiero and author Amy Irvine.

The underground space once was the reading room for the former location of the main Salt Lake City Library, so in that sense it feels like Sanders filling it with books again was destined to be. It has, however, been a long process full of bureaucratic red tape—like cutting down 40 of the store’s bookcases to meet the city’s seismic safety requirements. It’s the kind of thing that makes one wonder why the 71-year-old Sanders has devoted so much energy to keeping the store going rather than selling off his collection and retiring.

“It’s a fair question,” Sanders says. “You have to have money to retire, so I’m told. Do you know you’re supposed to plan your retirement decades in advance? Who knew? My riches are in books; I don’t worship money. … If I was sane, I could move into some relatively cheap office situation, and get rid of everything under $1,000 in value. That probably would have been the sane thing to do.”

Still, there is something of a sense of mission behind Sanders’ determination to keep his operation running. In part, it’s

a demonstration of commitment to those who showed a commitment to him, when he launched a GoFundMe campaign in 2020 that raised $170,000 to support the store’s ongoing operations during the transition period. “I was against doing it,” he says, “but I guess part of me thought that it would be … sort of a litmus test if I should hobble off into the sunset or not. ‘If the GFM is a big bomb, then I should follow its advice,’ I said to myself. Well, it wasn’t, and that money has kept me going the past four years. … That was and is my mandate. The people have spoken, and I feel like I owe them something other than to just take their money.”

Yet he’s also honest enough to recognize that he’s thinking about his legacy, one that spans nearly 50 years selling books in Salt Lake City, including the old Cosmic Aeroplane store before the venue that now bears his name. “I played cowboy, printer, radical environmentalist—all kinds of things that did not pay money—in my youth,” Sanders says. “I wheeled and dealed comic books in high school; I had a

mail-order business. … I’m trying to reinvent myself one last time. I’m clearly not done. I’m simply not finished yet.”

“I think this can be a safe haven,” he continues, speaking of this new location.

“I think we can be a great collaborator; a lot of The Leonardo’s and our goals overlap without competing. … But I want to turn this over. I don’t know to whom, but I want it ensconced in this place, I want it to thrive, and I want someone to take it over. Yes, I want the store to continue past me. Yes, there’s ego involved in that, of course there is, but is that all there is? I don’t think so. I think I’ve created something here that has value, far beyond me or my name.” CW

KEN SANDERS UNDERGROUND GRAND

OPENING

The Leonardo 209 E. 500 South Friday, Sept. 29 7 p.m.; free to the public kensandersrarebooks.com

SCOTT RENSHAW

Ken Sanders in the new Ken Sanders Underground space at The Leonardo

SLAC: Can I Say Yes to That Dress?

Sarah Shippobotham has worn many hats in the theater world: actor, University of Utah drama department faculty member, dialect coach. But for Can I Say Yes to That Dress?, she puts on a different a different hat— that of playwright—while also putting on a wedding dress in a one-woman show that explores unique societal pressures related to age and gender.

“Although the play focuses on a woman about to get married,” Shippobotham says via email, “it’s also about what it’s like to be a woman of a certain age growing up with certain expectations, and how those expectations are so strongly built into the fabric of being that person, that even if things have moved on, there’s still a sense that she is conditioned by her history. … Marriage really is the starting point for a conversation or opening to think about other things that impact women and non-male people.”

The play has taken a journey of more than 10 years to get to this world premiere, born originally out of an assignment for a workshop in clowning Shippobotham took in 2012. As a result, she believes it incorporates a distinctive performance dynamic. “For me, the piece is a mix of storytelling and stand up,” she says. “There is an element of me bringing my clownish sensibilities to the stage.”

Can I Say Yes to That Dress? runs Sept. 27 – Oct. 29 at Salt Lake Acting Company (168 W. 500 North). Tickets are $44 for general admission seating, with doors open a half-hour before performance times. Visit saltlakeactingcompany.org for tickets, performance dates & times and additional event information. (Scott Renshaw)

LAURA CHAPMAN

Complete listings online at cityweekly.net

Afro Utah Festival

Cultural festivals are a fun time, to be sure, but they’re also an opportunity to realize that our ideas of cultures outside of our own can need some expanding.

Afro Utah Festival was created to celebrate the diversity of a Black community in Utah that encompasses AfricanAmerican, West Indian, Afro-Latinx, recent Black immigrants and more, with plenty of music, food and other great experiences.

The week of the Afro Utah Festival kicks off on Sept. 28 with the Afro Utah Awards at Zions Technology Center in Midvale, created as a way to honor individuals who are changing the way Black people and those of Afro descent are perceived in the community while making significant contributions to the state. Friday, Sept. 29 brings the Afro Utah Fashion Show at the downtown SLC Hyatt Regency, showcasing Afrocentric fashions and designers. The centerpiece event is Saturday’s Afro Utah Festival at the Gallivan Center (239 S. Main St.), 1 p.m. – 9 p.m., featuring food vendors and other merchants, plus vibrant performances of music and dance from traditions including jazz, hip hop, calypso, afrobeat, merengue, bachata and more. It all wraps up with a special afterparty performance with Ghanan rapper/songwriter Sarkodie, 10 p.m. at the Commonwealth Room (195 W. 200 South).

Awards show tickets are $60 general admission, and Fashion Show tickets are $80 general admission, but tickets for the Afro Utah Festival are free to the public. Tickets for Sarkodie start at $55 general admission, 21+ only. Visit afroutah.org to get tickets and for other event information. (SR)

theESSENTIALS

Complete listings online at cityweekly.net

Lewis Black

Lewis Black is a professional curmudgeon. Where most people wouldn’t dare spew their venom and make their true feelings known, Black has built a successful career by doing exactly the opposite.

He defies those who take offense to his bitter barbs, and he never hesitates to share derision and disgust. He was once barred from filming an HBO special at the Kennedy Center, in fact, because someone had previously tallied the number of F-bombs he spouted on a previous special— and when confronted, he refused to temper his comments accordingly. During a benefit performance at his high school alma mater, he used the opportunity to curse a former teacher for giving him a lower grade than he felt he deserved. Then too, there was the time when he was arrested for participating in the “Naked Teen Voyeur Bus” trek around Manhattan, which just happened to follow the same route President Bill Clinton was taking that same day.

Naughtiness aside, Black has been consistently voted one of the best stand-up comedians of his generation, and his highly-rated comedy specials and ongoing credits in various media—including voicing Anger in Disney/Pixar’s hit Inside Out and releasing best-selling books—affirm his appeal. He also deserves credit for his work with the ACLU and the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, as well as his tours overseas to entertain our troops. Hey, we’re fans—and we certainly don’t want to risk his wrath.

Lewis Black brings his “Off the Rails” tour to Eccles Center’s Delta Hall (131 S. Main St.) on Friday, Sept. 29 at 8 p.m. Tickets cost $45 - $65; visit arttix.com. (Lee Zimmerman)

COURTESY

CHOOSE WISELY

A delayed election sees Salt Lake’s mayor and three City Council members fighting to stay in office.

BY BENJAMIN WOOD bwood@cityweekly.net

Salt Lake City’s municipal election will be held on Nov. 21, delayed from its typical perch by the inconveniently timed resignation of Congressman Chris Stewart, which triggered a special election calendar to replace him. Gerrymandering all-but-ensures that Stewart’s successor will be the Republican nominee—nice to meet you … Celeste Maloy?—but the local races for mayor and City Council are anything but settled.

District 2 Councilperson Alejandro Puy will skate unopposed to January, but three of his fellow incumbents are defending their seats against challengers. And Mayor Erin Mendenhall is seeking a second term after spending her first dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic, but she’ll have to go through former mayor Rocky Anderson and community advocate Michael Valentine to get there.

City Weekly reached out to each city candidate and asked them to describe themselves to voters, name a favorite Salt Lake City restaurant, summarize their top priorities if elected to office and answer their choice of a list of questions on: homelessness and housing; transportation; water and air quality; and the city’s aspirations around professional and Olympic sports. District 6 challenger Jack Bellows was the only candidate who failed to respond after multiple requests. Answers were received by email and edited for length and clarity.

SALT LAKE CITY MAYORAL RACE

Ross C. “Rocky” Anderson

Neighborhood: East Central/University

Restaurant: Cucina

Website: rocky4mayor.com

In my profession, my service on several nonprofit boards and my personal life, I’ve been guided by values of service to others and a commitment to excellence. I’m the best candidate for mayor because I know how to set ambitious, sustainable, communitybuilding goals and, working collaboratively, to get critical things done.

We will eliminate all homeless encampments by providing a sanctioned camp located away from residential areas (e.g., Wingpointe), with case management workers to transition each person to treatment and/or housing. The mayor, making token efforts, has opposed it, resulting in continued misery for residents, businesses and homeless people alike.

Police raids and destruction of unsheltered people’s property, when no alternatives are available, must end. I’d eliminate unsanctioned encampments, benefiting residents and businesses, too, by providing a remote, sanctioned place with toilets, showers and meals, where people can find stability and work with case managers toward jobs, treatment and housing.

I oppose expansion of Interstate 15 for many of the same reasons I successfully fought against the initial, illegal, environmentally damaging Legacy Highway. Expansion of highways leads to a devastating cycle of more traffic, more sprawl, more highways, more pollution and increasing isolation and health problems. Mass transit must be a priority.

Erin Mendenhall (Incumbent)

Neighborhood: East Liberty Park/9 th & 9 th

Restaurant: RocTaco and Mazza

Website: erinmendenhall.com

I’m a mom, an air-quality advocate and the mayor of Salt Lake City. I led the city through the pandemic, earthquakes, windstorm and flooding—all while taking historic steps on air quality, crime reduction and police reform and making unprecedented affordable housing investments. We’ve made these strides by building partnerships, not by demonizing our should-be allies.

The city needs more green space, trees, economic vitality and energy through 60 new acres of the Green Loop downtown. We will keep the pedal to the metal on more deeply affordable housing creation and continue growing ours and our partners’ investments in supportive services for our unhoused neighbors.

During my administration, the city has set a course for net-100% renewable energy by 2030 and offered free bus passes to all SLCSD kids and teachers—plus more bus services and with more than 200 upgraded bus stops—and required city-funded buildings to be emissionfree. We’ve expanded the Via west-side rideshare service, doubled annual tree plantings, created an ebike rebate program and dedicated 13 billion gallons of water, annually, to the Great Salt Lake.

The Bees only open Smith’s Ballpark 70 days a year—it should be a hub of activity 365 days a year. The $100 million fund supporting the Ballpark neighborhood will be incredible. Salt Lake City is a major-league city. Done right, MLB, the NHL, and the Olympics can be massive economic and community drivers.

Michael Valentine

Neighborhood: Downtown

Restaurant: Balabé Senegalese

Cuisine and Curry Fried Chicken

Website: mayorvalentine.com

I’m a community organizer, small business owner and filmmaker. I’m the most progressive candidate in the race, offering real solutions to every issue our city faces. I’m the best candidate because I am running to serve the public—not myself, not a career.

Salt Lake City must end homelessness now. I’m the best candidate on this issue by a mile as I have personally been homeless and understand it on a personal level. I would immediately declare a state of emergency, ban abatements, set up sanctioned camping for everyone on the streets and move people into longterm housing.

We need to be putting money into expanding public transportation. Expanding the interstate is unsustainable and studies have shown it doesn’t actually alleviate traffic in the long run. It also will destroy countless homes and neighborhoods. It’s a stupid idea that I will fight against at every level.

I support Sierra Utah’s lawsuit against the state over their inaction to protect the Great Salt Lake. The lake needs to be given personhood status so it can be protected. I also support the EPA stepping in and declaring the lake an environmental disaster. We need to raise water levels aggressively.

Ana Valdemoros (Incumbent)

Neighborhood: Downtown

Restaurant: Franklin Ave.

Cocktails & Kitchen

Website: ana4council.com

With an urban planning education and decades of community-building, I’m the ideal choice for Salt Lake City. Over 23 years, I’ve actively shaped our community through master plans, local businesses and community collaborations, while understanding diverse needs. I’ve tirelessly defended and represented District 4, which emerged from the COVID-19 pandemic stronger than any other downtown nationwide.

Addressing the housing crisis is paramount. My extensive education and decades of community development experience equip me to act effectively and methodically. As chairperson of the city’s Redevelopment Agency (RDA), I shifted focus to invest in affordable homeownership and family-size housing, ensuring a holistic solution that helps residents build wealth while accelerating housing progress.

Changes in how the city addresses unsanctioned camping are crucial. I recently allocated $500,000 for secure outdoor spaces, emphasizing dignity with amenities like bathrooms. Additionally, I established the Community Health Access Team, which in under a year saved over 100 police calls by providing specialized, compassionate responses, thereby enhancing all-around community well-being.

I strongly oppose highway widening and the expansion of Interstate 15. These projects displace communities, worsen our housing crisis and harm air quality. I believe in prioritizing mass transit and fostering green, efficient and transit-oriented cities. My city planning and transit experience informs this commitment to sustainable, walkable and bike-friendly urban development.

Molly Jones

Neighborhood: Sugar House

Restaurant: Bar Nohm

Website: molly.vote

I am a Utah native raised by a conservative family, but I was also the senior director of public policy in the Berkeley (California) Mayor’s Office. I’m a certified project manager, teacher and small business owner. I intend to use all of these skills to help the residents of District 7.

Sugar House needs an advocate; someone to fight for our residents, small businesses, better infrastructure, reasonable development and to

Clayton Scrivner

Neighborhood: East Central Restaurant: Tulie Bakery

Website: clayton4council.com

My name is Clayton, I’m a local dad, public servant and your neighbor.

I believe the infusion of big interest money in city council races (up 400% in just a decade or so) has changed the way the job is approached. I want to shift that focus back to “People First.”

Sadly, we are realizing the impact of largely monolithic growth in our city—an affordability crisis. When we are adding new residents exponentially, but looking to close seven schools, we are unbalanced. We can do better at incentivizing diverse housing types and demanding more community benefit—like livability and affordability—from our growth.

Interstate expansion is not a long-term solution. It would further the east/west divisions and would be harmful to the environment.

Let’s instead invest in a free, frequent and faster regional mass transit network in this state. Future generations will praise us for it.

I believe in diverse housing types in all ZIP codes as a salve to our affordability crisis. My concerns would center around prevention of dirt speculation (when people market upzoning as a get-rich quick scheme) and the tearing down of historic structures only to build unaffordable density as outcomes.

answer the phone when you call. I am fully committed to helping our district be the best it can possibly be.

We should not be displacing houses with a wider freeway. Instead, we should be investing heavily in public transportation, bicycle infrastructure and the 15-minute city mentality.

Sugar House is in a state of evolution and growth. How we plan on handling this change is what matters. With more people moving into our city, gentle-density housing allows us to create more affordable housing while simultaneously preserving our neighborhoods and not overcrowding them.

SURVEY SAYS

Here’s a not-so-secret secret about political polling: it’s all made up. Back before the internet, when everyone used landlines, it was slightly less made up, and there are still a lot of serious polling firms that put a lot of effort into making as educated a guess as possible. But that’s all it ever was, ever is and ever will be—a guess.

We thought it would be fun to see what City Weekly readers are thinking in the lead-up to November. So we sent the most un-scientific of polls out and invited folks to chime in. Here’s what 189 respondents said—which to reiterate should not be taken as indicative o f, well, anything. (But we’ll for sure be bragging if our results are anything near the final tally)

Sarah Young (Incumbent)

Neighborhood: Sugar House

Restaurant: Millie’s Burgers

Website: sarahforslc.com

Neighborhood: East Central Restaurant: La Cevicheria

Website: evaforcouncil.com

An early memory of mine was watching people with authority making decisions with real consequences for my family and neighbors. I have mastered our municipal process, red tape and civic engagement. I want to continue showing up for my community as an experienced and connected policy maker.

Day 1, I will be collaborating on creating a counterdisplacement strategy. It is top priority to preserve communities in the district that are in danger of being priced out or re-developed out. The city’s Thriving in Place studies will offer data and insight to inform specific policies.

As a renter, multi-family housing is a personal priority of mine. District 4 is home to the most diverse zoning codes in the city and even with the incredible growth we are experiencing, density can look and feel like the community it exists in.

As an athlete, I am excited to preserve the Ballpark stadium as a community asset. The ShePlays all-women’s sports facility concept is timely as we creatively build upon a legacy of sports. I want to ensure that community benefit and neighborhood-driven concepts are prioritized in the decision-making process.

With 20 years experience in local and state education, I am driven by innovation and progress. As a Sugar House resident and parent, I am committed to driving transformative change in our city. My vision and practical experience make me the ideal leader to shape our future together.

To tackle affordable housing, I’ll prioritize requiring developers to include 3-plus bedroom family units in their projects. This is essential to accommodate the needs of larger families and promote inclusivity in our community. My election will expedite this priority, ensuring more efficient progress in ad-

Do you support Salt Lake City hosting another Winter Olympic Games?

189 RESPONSES

DEFINITELY YES

PROBABLY YES

PROBABLY NO

DEFINITELY NO

dressing our housing challenges. It is essential that we make changes in our response to unsanctioned camping. Prioritizing investment in heart, housing, healthcare and legal support is crucial. Prevention efforts—including increasing the three-day eviction timeline and building affordable housing with larger units, as per our “Thriving in Place” plan—must be emphasized to address this issue effectively. Preserving the Great Salt Lake and ensuring clean air are vital for our children’s future. To achieve this, I’ll prioritize the use of non-potable water for public land irrigation, promote water-efficient appliances and incentivize xeriscaping. Educational campaigns like “Slow the Flow” and supporting water conservation gardens will raise awareness and help safeguard our precious resources.

Do you support increased housing density citywide?

189 RESPONSES

DEFINITELY YES

PROBABLY YES

PROBABLY NO

DEFINITELY NO

Eva Lopez Chavez

Editor’s note: Incumbent councilperson Alejandro Puy is unopposed in District 2. Puy was invited to comment on his record and goals, and district residents can find more information at his website.

CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 2

Alejandro Puy

Neighborhood: Fairpark

Restaurant: La Frontera and Hook & Ladder Co.

Campaign website: alejandropuy.com

City Weekly: Looking back on your first term, what accomplishments are you most proud of?

City Councilmember Alejandro Puy: Bringing City Council meetings to the west side, every year; gaining support for record funding to west-side open space; funding train information screens to assist commuters with possible blockages at rail crossings; and helping improve relationships with the county and the state to bring resources to our community.

CW: What do you intend to work on during your second term?

AP: I’m pursuing additional funding for complete streets—or streets that are safe for all users—and working toward smarter, more comprehensive growth that focuses on housing for families, gentle density and affordability in all areas of our city. We need to get more west-side residents voting and making noise about the issues we face. Register at vote.utah.gov.

CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 6

Editor’s note: Responses from District 6 candidate Jack Bellows were not received by our deadline.

James Alfandre

Neighborhood: Sugar HouseBonneville Hills

Restaurant: Nomad East

Website: jamesalfandre.com

I’m a husband and father to five active kids. I’m an avid outdoorsman, a youth sports coach, local business owner, award-winning urban designer, housing expert and economic development professional. I’m the best candidate because of my professional experience, expertise and track record of creative, impactful solutions that help neighborhoods grow gracefully and thoughtfully.

We need more gentle-density housing options in our neighborhoods. Many current residents can’t find appropriate housing, and our teachers, police officers and community service providers—along with future generations—depend on our commitment. But it has to be thoughtfully done—appropriately sized, located and designed to fit into historic neighborhoods, where applicable.

I will work to invest heavily in complete streets so walking, biking or rolling to daily needs is just as easy and efficient as driving. My kids walk, bike and ride the UTA bus to school, but their safety is still a big worry. Investing in mass transit is very important.

To save the Great Salt Lake, we must work with state leaders to address agricultural and industrial water use. We also need to incentivize xeriscaping and native plantings and invest in infrastructure that preserves water and saves money.

If the city election were held today, who would you be most likely to vote for as mayor?

189 RESPONSES

ERIN MENDENHALL

MICHAEL VALENTINE

ROSS “ROCKY” ANDERSON

Taymour Semnani

Neighborhood: Sugar HouseWasatch Hollow

Restaurant:

Caputo’s Market & Deli

Website URL: taymourforslc.com

I am the only candidate born and raised in Salt Lake City. I’m also the only candidate who put my particularized policy positions in writing, so voters can know what they are voting for, beyond just a smile and handshake. I believe that makes me the most transparent candidate in the race.

I want to expand public transit, make it safer for people to get out and walk and bike, and help people live, work and play much closer to home. Pedestrian safety is the foundation to this effort, because mass adoption only happens if people feel safe.

The city has limited levers on air and water quality, so we should make the most of the authority we have. Walkability and bikeability are low-hanging fruit, so I will focus on pedestrian safety to encourage people to walk and bike. Regarding water, we should broaden incentives brokered by Utah Water Savers.

I am always concerned with the rental housing supply, so land uses that involve housing near the Trax lines would make a lot of sense.

I am cautiously curious about the prospect of a Major League Baseball team. I would like to learn more about what success would look like.

Do you support the creation of a sanctioned campground for the unsheltered?

189 RESPONSES

DEFINITELY YES

PROBABLY YES

PROBABLY NO

DEFINITELY NO

Dan Dugan (Incumbent)

Neighborhood: East Bench

Restaurant: Mazza

Website: votefordugan.com

I’m a 20-year Navy veteran dedicated to serving my community. I have a proven record of leadership and delivering for District 6. My motivation is to take care of our people and planet and work so all residents have access to a healthy, safe, affordable and quality community.

The city is working with the state and county on actions for the homeless—sanctioned camping and deeply affordable housing. We must also focus on keeping people in their homes through rental assistance programs. My understanding of the issues and relationship with other government entities will keep things moving efficiently.

I do not support the expansion of Interstate 15. Increasing the number of lanes will only increase the number of cars on the road.

I’m in favor of our expansion of the FrontRunner system and would support increasing our Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system and incentivizing its use.

To improve air quality, I’m currently working with other government entities on increasing our public transportation network—its frequency and modifying the fare structure—and separately incentivizing the use of ebikes.

As for water, I’m prepared to restrict nonresidential outdoor water use and increase incentives for more naturalscaping of residential lawns.

Do you support the expansion of Interstate 15 through west-side neighborhoods?

189 RESPONSES

DEFINITELY YES

PROBABLY YES

PROBABLY NO

DEFINITELY NO

years

CITY WEEKLY

BY WES LONG wlong@cityweekly.net

The blues were in style, Tim Burton’s Batman was everywhere and the Private Eye inaugurated its first “Best of Utah” at the start of a new decade.

“As you can see,” John Saltas wrote in the Jan. 16, 1990, issue, “The Private Eye has been completely reformatted and rebuilt. That is largely due to the handiwork of artist Brett Elzey, who pushed us all year long to continually upgrade our look.”

Acknowledging such behind-the-scenes workers as J.R. Ruppel, J.P. Gabellini (aka John Paul Brophy), Janette Dabling and Kay Newbold, Saltas contemplated new mountains to be climbed. Energized by reader response and having relocated to an empty Midvale tavern, the Private Eye team had entered a new chapter and they knew it.

“We worked hard during 1989 and came out a little burned and a lot determined,” Saltas concluded.

And what material they had to work with! Right-wing morality militant Joy Beech (1928-1993)—“who graduated from college magna cum loudest,” according to the Private Eye’s Steve Lewis—was leading the charge against television in those days, while workplaces were heeding the call of the War on Drugs with mandatory employee testing. On top of which, Utah’s Liquor Task Force was recommending a ban on all private club advertising, which—had it been enacted—would have seriously affected the longevity of the Private Eye

Local heroes were given their due, like attorney Danny Quintana, who worked to get penitentiary officials to comply with a federal sanction for incarcerated American Indians to practice their religion with the sweat lodge ritual. YWCA social worker Debra Daniels was profiled in her empowerment of battered women, as was “legal gadfly” Brian Barnard (1945-2012) in his advocacy for civil rights. The Rev. Jerald “Jerry” Merrill (1924-2005) was honored for his work with the Lotus Project for those in need, and gay activists such as Garth Chamberlain were highlighted. Chamberlain was among a group of “education teams” distributing safety information at local parks in the wake of rising gay bashings.

Remembering Vol. 6: In the lab

“Everyone recoils from the horror of intentional or ignorant animal abuse,” observed Lynn Bradak for the Nov. 3, 1989, issue. But there was more to consider when it comes to animal rights, she added, which encapsulates other “everyday atrocities” that become easy to ignore.

“Our meat-centered meals, our vanity, our quest for immortality and tendency to discard pets the way we discard old clothes, they say, implicates us all in thousands, millions of pain-filled lives and pain-filled deaths in Utah every year.”

From product testing to military weapons experiments, Bradak showed that such work was pushed along at the public’s expense, particularly at Utah’s universities, commercial farms and outfits like James L. Sorenson’s (1921-2008) Biomedical Test Labs. “A lot of people are making a lot of money,” she wrote. “No disease has ever been cured.”

Such organizations were filling their lab cages through Animal Control agencies under an antiquated law. And Dr. Jack Taylor—a University of Utah veterinarian—asserted that “animal rights people don’t really know the impact that halting the use of animals would have on human health.” But Sheri Martinez, then-director of Wasatch Humane, seemed to have a clear understanding of what halting such activities would do, Bradak reported, which was to interrupt the profits of a multi-billion dollar biomedical research industry.

“To say that they are in business because they want us to be healthy is like saying General Motors incorporated to promote highway safety,” Martinez said.

Since Bradak’s story was published, much has remained the same. Monkeys, cats, dogs and rats are still primary subjects of experimentation. The University of Utah operates the largest lab in the state under the “Comparative Medicine” banner. But there have been some welcome changes since 1989, says Jeremy Beckham, executive director of Utah Animal Rights Coalition.

Following a 2009 PETA investigation of the U of U and the subsequent passage of

HB107 in 2010, the legal mandate to seize animals from local shelters was removed. Nevertheless, the U continued acquiring test animals from the North Utah Valley Animal Shelter in Lindon. Beckham was involved in the campaign to stop such activities.

“What finally ended the campaign were two high-profile incidents where lost or temporarily seized dogs belonging to people ended up at the U lab,” Beckham recalled. “One dog, Sheena, we were able to recover directly from the lab before they had experimented on her. The second dog, Sunny, was already dead by the time we learned she was at the U lab.”

In the ads

Appearing frequently was an ad for Aggies & Bogarts King of Clubs (formerly at 1225 Wilmington Ave). One of Utah’s first disco hotspots, it was notable for its parties as well as its dancers. Hosts George “Aggie” Anagnostakis (1925-2003) and Guy Thomas contributed to its special appeal.

Advertising in the Sept. 22 issue was a unique benefit event for the Utah chapter of the Sierra Club entitled “The New Environmental Ethic in the West.” Part of the annual Archdruid Lecture Series, it featured a slide show by Moab photographer Tom Till and a lecture by former Arizona Gov. Bruce Babbitt.

In the first Best of Utah

“Get it straight, fellow Utahns,” declared a ballot announcement in the Oct. 6 issue, “we’re looking for the lowdown on all of your favorite foods and pleasures.” With a grand prize drawing for “a trip to California or Denver,” and a deadline of Nov. 20 for reader submissions, the Private Eye staff unveiled 228 categories in food, music, goods, services and Utah living.

By Dec. 1, the editors reported that they had collected “hundreds” more ballots than they anticipated: “We quite honestly had no idea of the work we would be in for.” Nevertheless, the paper’s first Best of Utah issue dropped on Jan. 16, 1990, complete with cartoons from Signature Books and Calvin Grondahl of the Ogden Standard-Examiner.

In the food categories, the rooftop restaurant Nino’s (formerly at 136 E. South Temple) took home “Best of the Best,” receiving “more votes in more categories than any other Utah restaurant.”

Le Parisien (formerly at 417 S. 300 E.) was honored for its French cooking and Kyoto (still at 1080 E. 1300 South) for Japanese. Among others mentioned were Crompton’s Roadside Attraction (formerly 5195 E. Emigration Canyon Road), Lamb’s Restaurant (formerly at 169 S. Main) and Long Life Vegi House (formerly at 1353 E. 3300 South).

For nightlife, Green Street (formerly at 610 Trolley Square) was proclaimed Best of the Best: “Excellent food, patio dining and outdoor music in season, fashion shows, a banquet room, great service, a solid reputation and a fantastic and loyal clientele.”

Additional highlights included Squatters Brew Pub (147 W. Broadway) winning Best Cold Beer, Wild Rose (formerly at 702 Third Ave.) for Best Bike Shop, and Randy’s Records (157 E. 900 South) for Used Records.

In the family

John and Paula Saltas had joyous news to share in the Aug. 25 edition of 1989: the birth of their son Pete. “Paula entered the hospital on July 31 with a condition known as ‘placenta previa,’” John wrote, “whereby the placenta blocks the birth canal and precipitates a cesarean section birth.” The risks were high, but after a waiting period of two weeks—still four weeks earlier than Paula’s due date—“P.J.” was born.

“P.J. was rushed to the nursing unit and placed under an oxygen hood,” John reported. “A more saddening, helpless and god-fearing sight I have never witnessed.

‘Fight!’ I begged him, holding blue hands and feet, chest heaving like [cyclist] Greg LeMond’s, ‘Fight, fight, fight!’ He did.”

Saltas wondered what qualities their baby might possess, and who within their circle of family and friends he might resemble the most. The team at City Weekly are pleased to have “P.J.” as our publisher.

“P.J. had completed his first marathon, and Paula ensured he was able to do it,” Saltas concluded. “I love them both dearly.” CW

Compliments to the Chefs

Laurel Brasserie & Bar hosts a series of curated, accessible meals.

BY AIMEE L. COOK comments@cityweekly.net

Anew seasonal chef series launched this month at Laurel Brasserie & Bar, and will continue every third week throughout October. If you’re looking for a culinary adventure, check out one of the remaining chef dinner series. (Oct.7 and 28). It’s a great way to expand your palate and experience new and exciting foods, wine, and cocktails.

The chef series is designed to be a welcoming and inclusive experience for everyone who loves food. The setting is casual and relaxed; dishes are served family style, and the chefs are happy to answer questions about their dishes and the ingredients they use.

The inaugural dinner of this series brought a touch of Southern finesse to the Mountain West region, featuring The Elysian Bar, a hotspot from New Orleans. Executive Chef Kyle Focken (from The Elysian Bar) and Chef Fernando Soberani (from Laurel) collaborated to curate a four-course dinner. Guests enjoyed a flavor-infused dining experience, with each course thoughtfully paired with an elevated beverage.

The menu included the Elysian Bar House Spritz, which was tangy, smooth,

and well-balanced, served with tempura fried lemon slices (you can’t believe how good those were) and salmon toast. Heirloom tomato gnocchi was the offering for the second course, and the large, pillowy morsels were spot-on in a light and creamy sauce; this dish was paired perfectly with Pomerols Picpoul Pinet. Tritip with trumpet mushrooms & broccolini was next up, and this dish was my favorite as the meat was perfectly cooked, tender and flavorful. Coupled with the trumpet mushrooms, the depth of flavors were outstanding. Paired with Calera Central Coast Pinot Noir, this combination delivered the most savory and satisfying bites. It is worth mentioning there were a few seafood dishes included, but this girl is allergic.

Saving room for dessert was a challenge, but necessary, as the expertly prepared chocolate tart with hazelnuts, pistachio, orange & honey was rich and creamy, but light enough for a few delicious bites. The dessert was paired with the perfect Sazerac cocktail, which was new to me and provided a smooth sip with every bite.

“We are thrilled to host a series of collaborative dinners for the Salt Lake City community where true foodies can indulge in multiple-course dinners and meet the chefs behind the concepts of the dishes. It is an honor to work with various chefs from around the country to create flavor profiles that blend different cuisines and skills together,” said Chef Soberani. “The partnership with The Elysian Bar has come together beautifully, and I am excited to cook alongside Chef Kyle to bring our culinary visions to life.”

Chef Soberani, with more than 25 years of culinary expertise, will be at the helm for the next dinner in the series.

He brings a consistency of excellence to Laurel’s brasserie-style menu, featuring classic European fare with a modern American style, featuring the same high standard as you would expect of The Grand America Hotel.

One of the highlights of this dinner (Oct.7) will be the pairing with Wade Cellars. Inspired by ex-NBA star and Utah Jazz part-owner Dwyane Wade’s passion for the great wines of Napa Valley, Wade Cellars has expanded its production range since its first vintage in 2012, showcasing a diverse collection of wines that reflect California’s rich winemaking tradition with a touch of DWade’s style.

Expect a curated food menu paired— with a wine that will enhance your culinary experience—that is both delicious and educational. When creating a curated menu, the chef must consider a number of factors, including the body and acidity of the wines, the flavors of the food, and the overall theme of the meal. The Oct. 7 menu will include pumpkin arancini and a wild mushroom tart, paired with Three by Wade Rosé; pan-seared maple-glazed Scottish salmon, slow braised beef short rib and butternut squash tortelloni, paired with Three by Wade Cabernet Sauvignon; and save room for dessert, so you enjoy a pumpkin spice whoopie pie, cinnamonapple hand pie and sticky toffee pudding cake, paired with Three by Wade Sparkling. The final dinner in the chef series (Oct.28) will feature local chef Viet Pham. CW

LAUREL BRASSERIE & BAR

555 S. Main St., SLC 84111 laurelslc.com

801-258-6708

$65 per person without alcohol pairing; $95 per person with alcohol pairing

COURTESY PHOTO

COURTESY PHOTO

Fernando Soberani

Kyle Focken

TWO LOCATIONS

chappell.beer

On Tap: Playground 4 with 1019 & Madusa

Craft by Proper 1053 E. 2100 So., SLC craftbyproper.com

On Tap: Purple Rain - Marionberry

Helles

Desert Edge Brewery 273 Trolley Square, SLC DesertEdgeBrewery.com

On Tap:  La Playa-Mexican Style lager

Epic Brewing Co.

825 S. State, SLC

EpicBrewing.com

On Tap: Pumpkin Porter

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

Level Crossing Brewing Co.

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

On Tap: Bat Country Blonde

Level Crossing Brewing Co., POST 550 So. 300 West #100, SLC LevelCrossingBrewing.com

On Tap: Nitro Coffee Uncommon

Moab Brewing 686 S. Main, Moab TheMoabBrewery.com

On Tap: Golden Sproket Wit

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

On Tap: Tropical Crush–POG–Passionfruit, Orange & Guava!

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

On Tap: DOPO IPA

Ogden Beer Company 358 Park Blvd, Ogden OgdenRiverBrewing.com

On Tap: Injector Hazy IPA

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

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

On Tap: Tranquili-Tea HefeweizenEpic Collaboration

Proper Brewing 857 S. Main, SLC ProperBrewingCo.com

On Tap: Whispers from KrakatoaHelles Lager w/ Habanero and Mango

Proper Burger: Sour RangerBlackberry and Lemon Sour

Proper Brewing Moab 1393 US-191 Moab, Utah 84532

On Tap: Angus McCloud- Scottish Ale

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

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

Red Rock Kimball Junction Redrockbrewing.com

1640 Redstone Center

On Tap: Bamberg Rauch Bier

RoHa Brewing Project 30 Kensington Ave, SLC RoHaBrewing.com

On Tap:  Tactical Fanny Pack Hazy Double IPA

Roosters Brewing

Multiple Locations RoostersBrewingCo.com

On Tap: Identity Crisis Session West Coast Hazy Cold IPA – the name says it all!

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

On Tap: Deep Five Series - Fest Bier on draft

Salt Flats Brewing 2020 Industrial Circle, SLC SaltFlatsBeer.com

On Tap: Oktoberfest Vienna Lager

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

On Tap: Smokey Dokey (Teazaanti Collab) - 10.7% ABV

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

On Tap: Pear Pink Peppercorn & Tarragon Cider

Shades Brewing 154 W. Utopia Ave, South Salt Lake

ShadesBrewing.beer

On Tap: Hellion  Huckelberry

Sour Ale

Live Music:  Thursdays

Shades On State 366 S. State Street SLC

Shadesonstate.com

On Tap: Hellion  Blond Ale, an ode to Ellie, manager at Shades on State Karaoke: Wednesdays

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

Squatters Pub Brewery / Salt Lake Brewing Co. 147 W. Broadway, SLC saltlakebrewingco.com/squatters

On Tap:  Salt Lake Brewing Co.’s Dog Lake (American) Pale Ale

Squatters and Wasatch Brewery 1763 So 300 West SLC UT 84115 Utahbeers.com

On Tap: Squatters & Kiitos Collab: Ginger Rye Lime Sour, 5% Strap Tank Brewery, Lehi 3661 Outlet Pkwy, Lehi, UT StrapTankBrewery.com

On Tap: Three on the Tree’ Hoppy Lager Collaboration with Proximity Malt and Roy Farms Hops.  Strap Tank Brewery, Springville 596 S 1750 W, Springville, UT StrapTankBrewery.com

On Tap: Three on the Tree’ Hoppy Lager Collaboration with Proximity Malt and Roy Farms Hops.  Stratford Proper 1588 Stratford Ave., SLC stratfordproper.com

On Tap: Yacht Rock Juice BoxJuicy IPA

TF Brewing 936 S. 300 West, SLC

TFBrewing.com

On Tap: Oktoberfest Märzen Lager

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

On Tap: Oktoberfest- Maarzen

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 Brewery 2110 S. Highland Drive, SLC saltlakebrewingco.com/wasatch

On Tap: Wasatch Apricot Lager Zion Brewery 95 Zion Park Blvd, Springdale ZionBrewery.com

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

BEER NERD

Boogie and the Funk

Cramming a world of flavors in two beers, ya dig?

BY MIKE RIEDEL comments@cityweekly.net @utahbeer

Red Rock - Space Boogie: This new double IPA features Nectaron, Citra Incognito and Galaxy hops. It pours an opaque tinge of deep golden-orange, topped with a sizable and thick head of white foam; excellent retention results in incredibly thick rings of soapy lacing clinging to the glass, along with a thick collar of froth. Aromas of bright orange emerge, supported by hints of white grape must and raw herbal bits; there’s also a bit of stone fruit on the base with a dank, gritty, dirty quality mingling with citrus and dense tropical tones really nicely. I’m digging this.

The taste brings stone fruit, dank pineapple and over-ripe mango, peppered with a light but punchy hop spice, eventually fading to fresh peach and hints of grapefruit zest. An interesting touch of banana peel finds its way in intermittently, along with wisps of wild berry, while honeyed rye and subtle herbal tones of resin and pine pump an earthy sweetness to the finish. Mouthfeel is mediumbodied with lighter carbonation—dry and prickly across the palate, which follows the slight juiciness at the start. Fluffy, soft and slightly bitter, it proves diverse on the palate, and very enjoyable overall.

Verdict: There’s a certain ease to this one in spite of its raw, gritty notes that sees it through to a unique but naturally approachable state for the style—simultaneously aggressively hoppy, effortless and fruity. Everything comes together so well; this is Red Rock at its finest.

TF - Three Sisters: This spontaneous beer (or spon beer) was open-air fermented via cool ship (a shallow stainless-steel vessel) at the Three Sisters Garden at Blue Sky Ranch. Basically, barrels of unfermented beer were brought to

Blue Sky Ranch, and were allowed to be naturally fermented in the open air of the mountain garden. After two years of slow barrel-aged fermentation, it’s now ready.

It’s unfiltered, of course, judging by how natural it looks, with a yellow-orange color of average vibrance. No yeast can be seen within. Head retention for this style is generally low, and it fades fast here. Aptly bottle-conditioned, it’s not a unique or special-looking ale, but appealing in a general sense, sure.

Spontaneous yeast is evident in the nose, walking a nice line between funkiness and sourness; that sourness seems tame, but it’s unmistakable. Nuanced funkiness brings notes of leather. Bacterial intangibles are present, but this isn’t a lactobacillus bomb like many Americanbrewed sours. Oak rounds it out nicely, but sits in the background, somewhat reluctant to join the party. Acidity is obvious, specifically lemon, along with the beginnings of acetic character. You also get some floral notes, and a barnyard character reminiscent of dried lime with a blip of hay. Some nice green apple pops up, though without ever coming off cidery.

The taste delivers on the promises of the aroma, with white wine vinegarsoaked oak unifying the flavor profile. It’s funky more than it is sour, actually; sourness is maybe a 5/10 or 6/10 in terms of intensity. Twangy throughout, with acidic lemon, lactic and acetic acid dancing across the palate, along with green apples, bacterial intangibles, salt and those faint barnyard notes. It’s a nuanced gueuze, with plenty of subtleties sitting beneath the prominent funkiness that guides the beer. Balanced and enjoyable, this gestalt beer feels like a unified whole in spite of being a blend.

Verdict: Highly drinkable, easily refreshing, and very satisfying. Yes, the dryness of the mouthfeel does hold it back a bit, but it’s easily amongst the best examples of the style I’ve tried. It’s hard to stop drinking, and I already wish I had more. Kevin Templin is one of the great inoculators of funky beers—and may be one of the best blenders, if not the best.

Three Sisters is presented in a 750 ml green bottle and is exclusive to TF. Space Boogie, is available at all Red Rock locations in 16-ounce cans, and will make an appearance at some DABS stores. As always, cheers! CW

MIKE RIEDEL

MIKE RIEDEL

BY ALEX SPRINGER | @captainspringer

Cookbook for Kneaders Fans

Since the late 1990s, Kneaders Bakery and Café (kneaders.com) has been supplying the Wasatch Front with tasty sandwiches, pastries and all-you-can-eat French toast. Its traditional recipes have made it a Utah original, and fans of this local bakery can now take these recipes home with them. Kneaders co-owner Colleen Worthington recently published a cookbook called Kneaders: A Celebration of Our Recipes and Memories . The cookbook catalogues 25 years of recipes, along with plenty of gorgeous photographs. If you’ve ever wanted to know how to make Kneaders’ famous French toast, pick up a copy of this cookbook when it drops on Oct. 3.

The Art of Extract Making

In other home cooking news, Utah natives Paul and Jill Fulton will be hosting a workshop all about making your own extracts next week. If you’ve ever been fascinated with all those little brown bottles of McCormick extracts in the baking aisle, you’ll want to get the inside scoop on how to make these flavor shots yourself. The Fultons’ workshop will also celebrate their new cookbook The Art of Extract Making: A Kitchen Guide to Making Vanilla and Other Extracts at Home, which hit shelves on Sept. 26. The workshop will take place at Orson Gygi (3500 S. 300 West) on Oct. 6 from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., and tickets to the event can be purchased from vanillapura.com.

V Burger Opens

It’s a well-recorded fact that I am a sucker for both Venezuelan food and Latin burger fusion, which is why I’m all kinds of excited about V Burger (1669 W. 9000 South, 385-491-8989). V Burger is moonlighting as a burger joint that adds melty, stretchy mozzarella cheese to their monstrous offerings, but it also has plenty of traditional Venezuelan eats on the menu. You can get stuffed arepas, Venezuelan hot dogs, tequeños, patacones and the highly sought-after cachapas, all under one roof. Though Venezuelan food is traditionally a meat-centric cuisine, V Burger has a few vegan and vegetarian options; you’d be surprised at how versatile those fried plantains are for a plant-based diet.

Quote of the Week: “Burgers are a love letter to all things savory and delicious.”

–Andrew Zimmern

Only Human

The sprawling, overly-ambitious drama of The Creator somehow becomes part of its appeal.

BY SCOTT RENSHAW scottr@cityweekly.net @scottrenshaw

In an early scene from co-writer/director Gareth Edwards’ The Creator, ex-soldier Joshua Taylor (John David Washington) and a co-worker clean up the “ground zero” zone of a nuclear weapon detonated in Los Angeles 15 years earlier by artificial intelligence, the 9/11-esque event that launched a war between the United States and the “New Asia” still developing AI technology. The co-worker offhandedly suggests that “the AI nuked us to take our jobs”—and in the context of the (at press time) still-ongoing Hollywood creative strikes, in which the use of AI is one of the key sticking points, it’s hard for that moment not to carry a particular prescient resonance.

The Creator exists at an odd intersection between the kind of movie generative AI threatens us with—lots of big genre spectacle—and the kind of movie AI could never duplicate. This is a narrative that’s ambitious, sprawling, messy, sentimental and often leaves things unfinished. In short, it’s human—and somehow that makes it feel more effective than its shortcomings suggest it should be.

Edwards and co-screenwriter Chris Weitz have a lot of backstory ground to cover, including Joshua’s history as a deep-cover U.S. Army operative trying to find the fabled AI creator known as Nirmata, but while doing so falls in love with Nirmata’s daughter, Maya (Gemma Chan), only to watch her die during a military

raid. Years later, Joshua is recruited to lead an operation targeting a rumored superweapon that could threaten the Americans’ military space station—a weapon that turns out to be in the form of a child that Joshua comes to call Alfie (Madeleine Yuna Voyles)—with information that suggests Maya is actually still alive.

Much of the rest of the narrative is catand-mouse chase, with Joshua protecting Alfie because he believes she can lead him to Maya, while the Americans led by Col. Howell (Allison Janney) pursue them. Edwards doesn’t excel at taut action set pieces, but he does a lot of impressive world-building here, including the visual design of the AI “Simulants” that leaves a portion of their skulls open, the literal spinning of visible gears contributing to the notion that there’s actual thought going on. The screenplay also demonstrates a welcome and surprising subtlety, refusing to underline some of the revelations that make it clear the military is serving up plenty of propaganda; only late in the film does it become clear that the story Howell tells about the event that radicalized her hatred of the AI is one that almost certainly didn’t happen.

That notion of militarized xenophobia permeates The Creator, but its creators sometimes seem a bit unsure about what their allegory is actually meant to convey. On the one hand, it’s clear that there’s a District 9-like science-fiction exploration of prejudice bubbling below the surface, incorporating the kind of “Great Replacement” ideas suggested by that aforementioned co-worker’s quote.

At the same time, Edwards pointedly makes Joshua a double-amputee with cybernetic limbs, and introduces a technology that allows for the uploading of human memories into Simulant bodies. It’s an interesting ship-of-Theseus concept of identity, but it also mixes the metaphors by introducing the question of what makes us different from our personal “others,” as opposed to learning that maybe they’re not the threat that official sources are suggesting that they are.

A similarly awkward notion affects the central relationship between Joshua and Alfie, which wisely isn’t built on a trite dynamic of personal animosity-turnedgrudging respect that could have felt like Who Framed Roger Rabbit’s “a toon killed my brother.” As effective as the two leads

are at suggesting their surrogate parent/ child chemistry, they’re working within a screenplay that suggests Alfie has been programmed to love Joshua—and as a result, it messes with the notion of the AI as having the same kind of emotional lives as humans.

All of this might have sunk The Creator, except that it’s also pretty effective as … well, big genre spectacle. Virtually every visual choice Edwards makes hits the mark, mixing his nods to everything from Star Wars to Blade Runner into its own distinctive concoction.

And however jumbled his messaging might get, it’s clear that he wants to emphasize the power of love over the power of hate in times of anxiety and crisis. That’s the kind of story it’s hard to imagine AI ever matching—the kind that’s as imperfectly told as it is deeply felt. CW

John David Washington

Yuna Voyles

Janney

THE CREATOR BBB

John David Washington in The Creator 20TH CENTURY STUDIOS

FEATURE MUSIC

Local Music Spotlight September 2023

Freshen up your music library with these rad local tunes.

BY EMILEE ATKINSON eatkinson@cityweekly.net @emileelovesvinyl

It’s always good to have a steady stream of fresh tunes in your music library. You never know when you’ll get a hankering for something new, or are in the mood for something specific. The local music scene is constantly bursting with incredible original work that’s fit for any library. Here are a few more entries to add—not all brand-new, but possibly new to you.

The Band Gooch, “Unwind”: It would be pretty obvious to say that this is a great track to listen to when you need to unwind, but hey, I’m going to say it anyway. The Band Gooch’s late 2021 release is the perfect sendoff to summer. Released in August of that year, it’s still a great listen even though we’re well into fall (even though the weather won’t let us feel it). It starts out with a lively, cheerful bass track before guitar and drums are layered on top, creating this perfect music sandwich that you don’t want to stop eating. Eventually it turns into a full-on beach bop that has reggae vibes and will have you bobbing your head the whole time. Kick your feet up, grab your favorite beverage and throw this one on, you’ll be chilling in no time.

Cactus Tree, “Sunstone”: Singer/songwriter Tori Smith creates beautiful, longing tracks that feel like you’re looking into the window of your own soul. She has a way of putting tough feelings into

words that also feel comfortably relatable. Her 2022 single “Sunstone” is a song full of alluring lyrics that will pop out at you each time you listen. Perhaps in one playthrough you hear the lines, “I want to begin in Oregon / Those waves won’t demand my tears / This desert pries open my eyes and says / We need more water here.” Then the second or third time you’ll be pulled in by the lines “What it is it that you dream of my love / Who it is you’ll become / And when the storm clouds come / Tell me / What is your sunstone,” and you can’t think about anything else. This is a great song for when you’re in your “sad girl” phase or are feeling extra introspective.

Cera Gibson, “Mad Dog”: SLC pop artist Cera Gibson has been pumping out hit after hit—from her cover of the iconic Britney Spears track “Oops!.. I Did It Again,” to her huge 2022 release “Daddy,” Gibson isn’t afraid to embrace the sexy and the taboo while blowing audiences away with her larger-than-life pop sound. While “Daddy” was a beautiful, dreamy, romantic ballad, her most recent single, “Mad Dog,” is a more dramatic tune that is part surf-punk/part blues, and evokes a story of jealousness, possessiveness and

lust, according to her website. “This may cause some confusion among fans, given her public practice of polyamory, but ‘Mad Dog’ is not a new song—just new to the public,” the site adds. This is a perfect party track; it’s got deep bass, climactic vocals and a catchy-as-hell chorus that will easily be stuck in your head for days. Definitely don’t skip this one.

Resonomics, “Living in a Moment”: OTown’s resident hip-hop king is back at it with a lively new single that will make you want to carpe a little diem. “Living in a Moment” opens strong with dope electronic elements that get the song off to an energetic start. We all like to pretend that we’re too cool to need a pep talk or a few words of affirmation to get us feeling energized and excited about life, but singing/ rapping along to Resonomics here might just be the boost you need to keep it going. “Like a champion / Like a star in the sky above me / Find me at the end / Really nothing can take it from me,” the song starts. How could you possibly not feel pumped singing that over and over? Hop in the car, grab your friends, crank this one up and sing at the top of your lungs—trust me, you’ll feel so much better.

RIP Cassette, “Dog On a Leash”: RIP Cassette have been putting out some of the best indie synth-rock sounds you’ve heard in the local scene since their debut in 2021. They hit the ground running with their first single “Jumper Cable,” and have been evolving splendidly since that time. “Dog On a Leash” is their most recent electrifying single. I’m a sucker for a great chugging bassline, and there’s plenty to be had for the duration of this song. It’s expertly layered with rad synths, the aforementioned bass and crunchy guitar. RIP Cassette is most definitely a band to watch, even if you hear “synth-rock” and are unsure you’ll like it; trust me, you will. Don’t let your music collection start to feel stale; add these to the growing list of musthaves from local musicians. If you’re a Spotify user, I have an ongoing playlist (featuring the songs in the “Local Music Spotlight” series. Search me up on Spotify (Emilee Atkinson) and you’ll find the playlist with the same title. Fire it up when you’re feeling like discovering something new. CW

Cactus Tree MATISSE MCMULLIN

THURSDAYS

FRIDAYS DJ FRESH(NESS)

SATURDAYS POKER @ 2PM DJ DELMAGGIO

SHARK SUNDAYS POOL TOURNEY HOSTED BY JARED AND TANNER

MONDAYS REGGAE MONDAY WITH DJ NAPO

WEDNESDAYS KARAOKE

TUESDAYS

By Emilee Atkinson

City Ghost, Josaleigh Pollett, Baby Ghosts, Nadezhda @ Urban Lounge 9/28

Very few things in life are free. If someone tells you that it is, it’s probably too good to be true— except this time. On Thursday, Sept 28 you can catch not one, not two, not even three—but four local bands completely free at Urban Lounge. Indie rockers City Ghost are riding high with their latest single “Good News,” a beautiful, moody melodic track that’s so easy to put on repeat. It’s their first official release since their 2021 EP Gray, and it’s an epic return to form. Joining them is local music staple Josaleigh Pollett, who is celebrating the release of their latest album In the Garden, By the Weeds, a transformative and introspective look on life that focuses on growing and healing after hard times. It’s a must-listen for DIY indie-rock fans who need some peace in their lives. Baby Ghosts fit into the lineup with their loud and in-your-face indie-rock/punk jams. Their most recent release, “Hey You,” is a perfect song to turn up to 10 in your living room and dance to like nobody’s watching. Last but certainly not least are newcomers Nadezhda, who describe themselves as “hardcore’s Fleetwood Mac.” A lot to live up to, but they’re sure to deliver at this incredible show. The show is free, but make sure to head to 24tix.com to “purchase” your ticket that reserves a spot and guarantees entry. The only catch is that the show is 21+, so bring your IDs and have a great night. (Emilee Atkinson)

Josaleigh Pollett

By Emilee Atkinson

The Psychedelic Furs, Squeeze @ Eccles Theater 9/30

It’s often said that whatever is old is new again, and that has certainly applied to the 1980s. Audiences have an opportunity to size up that saying by becoming reacquainted with two of England’s most influential Gen X-era outfits and the songs that created such an enduring impression then, and still do so now. Both bands eventually teetered on the verge of extinction and dealt with changes in their respective rosters, yet they managed to regroup and revive the sounds that brought them to fame in the first place. The Psychedelic Furs’ musical trademark mostly had to do with singer Richard Butler’s raspy croon, a sound indelibly identified with songs such as “Pretty In Pink,” “Love My Way,” “Heaven” and “The Ghost In You,” all of which established their trademark template. Squeeze was blessed with the prolific songwriting talents of Chris Difford and Glenn Tilbrook, the Lennon and McCartney of their day. Indeed, their instantly infectious melodies found songs such as “Take Me I’m Yours,” “Pulling Mussels (From the Shell),” “Tempted,” and “Annie Get Your Gun” assuring them a place atop pop music’s highest pedestal. Granted, there’s more than a hint of nostalgia accompanying these two bands’ belated return, but more importantly, it reminds us that great music never slips out of style, and that memorable melodies pay greater heed to taste than time. The Psychedelic Furs and Squeeze perform at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept 30 at Delta Performance Hall at the Eccles Theater. Tickets cost $40 - $390 (VIP). Go to my.arttix.com. (Lee Zimmerman)

Babymetal & Dethklok @ The Complex 10/1

Japanese sensations Babymetal have joined forces with the mighty Dethklok, the on-screen heavy metal band and stars of Adult Swim’s Metalocalypse, for a co-headline tour appropriately dubbed Babyklok. Babymetal’s ambitious fourth LP, The Other One, released earlier this year to mixed reviews. It’s a concept album where they bring the energy and the Kawaii to maximum levels, and push the limits between what’s cute and what’s heavy. “I consider this album to be a BABYMETAL spin-off while also being like an art museum,” Su-Metal told Billboard. “There’s a phrase in the lyrics of ‘Mirror Mirror’ that means, ‘The real me / doesn’t exist.’ I think the songs on this album are like that in a way, and it’s also what art is all about.” There will be bores who will moan, no doubt. However, Babymetal live is pure entertainment, and they put on a great spectacle. I kind of admire J-pop’s willingness to embrace diverse genres as required by the everchanging fads of pop culture nostalgia. Dethklok, on the other hand, is a surprisingly good melodic death-metal band. Even though the music comes from a TV show, the songs all have big hooks and impressive musicianship, which makes them stand out in 20-second bursts and over-extended run times. Think Amon Amarth, but cartoons instead of being, you know, just cartoonish. The metal resistance is real. Jason Richardson opens. Catch these acts at The Complex on Sunday, Oct 1. Doors at 5:30 p.m., show at 6:30 p.m. Tickets for the all-ages show range from $59.50 for general admission, to $184.50 for the Dethklok Soundcheck VIP Package, and can be found here thecomplexslc.com (Mark Dago)

MUSIC PICK S

By Emilee Atkinson

Worriers, Mediocre, Sleep Cult @ DLC 10/2

For the better part of a decade, Worriers have used their own brand of punk-adjacent indie rock to tell stories of heartbreak, gender expression, identity and love. Trust Your Gut is the band’s first studio album in years, and features band members Atom Willard (Against Me!, Social Distortion), Franz Nicolay (The Hold Steady), Frank Piegaro and Cayetana’s Allegra Anka. The album was self-produced by songwriter Lauren Denitzio, and is a pivotal release demonstrating the true depth and complexity of their career with the band. Worriers became Denitzio’s main focus after the wake-up call of openheart surgery at just 25 years old. The event shook them into leaving a toxic creative partnership and starting a band that could evolve along with them. That priority takes center stage on Trust Your Gut, as Denitzio’s 2019 move from the East Coast to Los Angeles found them collaborating with Willard as a fun exercise, only to realize they had started writing the next album together. This new album is just as punk rock as the band has ever been, but you can still take a deep dive into their back catalog to find incredible hits. Their most popular song— “They/Them/Theirs” from 2015—is an incredible anthem for those who identify with those pronouns, and a great insight for those who might not know much about what it means to be gender neutral. Worriers are joined by LA natives Mediocre and SLC rockers Sleep Cult on Monday, Oct 8. Tickets for the 21+ show are $16 in advance and $18 at the door, which opens at 7 p.m. Grab tickets at 24tix.com. (EA)

Laxx, Megalodon @ SKYSLC 10/4

Energi Wednesdays at Sky SLC bring some of the heaviest DJs and producers in the EDM/dubstep scene. This week, Laxx and Megalodon will deliver their highly anticipated bass music. Both artists were part of the legendary U.K. dubstep label Never Say Die Records: Black Label, which disbanded in 2022. Though they are sharing the headlining spotlight this week, both artists have made independent names for themselves, and continue to produce and release new music. James Churchill, aka Laxx, is a U.K.based dubstep artist who is best known for his Step One EP from 2014 on Never Say Die Records (continuing to Step Four in 2019) and his more recent 2018 Fake Friends album. Cory Artsay, aka Megalodon, is an L.A.-based artist who has been in the scene for over a decade, with his latest single “Proper” out now on his own label, Bypass Audio. Both artists have gained momentum in recent years with top-notch technical mixing styles that rely on dubstep’s U.K. roots, while also bringing the more aggressive, genre-bending sound that is somewhere in between trap and dubstep. This show is guaranteed to have headbangers and moshers front of stage, while embodying respect and kindness—core tenets of rave culture. This will be an unforgettable weeknight in downtown SLC. Laxx and Megalodon perform at Sky SLC on Wednesday, Oct 4. Doors open at 9 p.m. Earlybird Presale Tickets (21+) cost $10. Go to tickets.skyslc.com. (Arica Roberts)

Worriers

DJ Megalodon PC

free will ASTROLOGY

BY ROB BREZSNY

ARIES (March 21-April 19)

Author Diane Ackerman says it’s inevitable that each of us sometimes “looks clumsy or gets dirty or asks stupid questions or reveals our ignorance or says the wrong thing.” Knowing how often I do those things, I’m extremely tolerant of everyone I meet. I’m compassionate, not judgmental, when I see people who “try too hard, are awkward, care for one another too deeply or are too open to experience.” I myself commit such acts, so I’d be foolish to criticize them in others. During the coming weeks, Aries, you will generate good fortune for yourself if you suspend all disparagement. Yes, be accepting, tolerant and forgiving—but go even further. Be downright welcoming and amiable. Love the human comedy exactly as it is.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20)

Taurus comedian Kevin James confesses, “I discovered I scream the same way whether I’m about to be devoured by a great white shark or if a piece of seaweed touches my foot.” Many of us could make a similar admission. The good news, Taurus, is that your anxieties in the coming weeks will be the “piece of seaweed” variety, not the great white shark. Go ahead and scream if you need to—hey, we all need to unleash a boisterous yelp or howl now and then—but then relax.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20)

Here are people with whom I have had personal connections: actor Marisa Tomei, rock star Courtney Love, filmmaker Miranda July, playwright David Mamet, actor William Macy, philosopher Robert Anton Wilson, rock star Paul Kantner, rock impresario Bill Graham and author Clare Cavanagh. What? Never heard of Clare Cavanagh?

She is the brilliant and renowned translator of Nobel Prize Laureate poet Wisława Szymborska and the authorized biographer of Nobel Prize Laureate author Czesław Miłosz. As much as I appreciate the celebrities I named, I am most enamored of Cavanagh’s work. As a Gemini, she expresses your sign’s highest potential: the ability to wield beautiful language to communicate soulful truths. I suggest you make her your inspirational role model for now. It’s time to dazzle, persuade, entertain and beguile with your words.

CANCER (June 21-July 22)

I cheer you on when you identify what you want. I exult when you devise smart plans to seek what you want and I celebrate when you go off to obtain and enjoy what you want. I’m gleeful when you aggressively create the life you envision for yourself, and I do everything in my power to help manifest it. But now and then, I share Cancerian author Franz Kafka’s perspective: “You do not need to leave your room. Remain sitting at your table and listen. Do not even listen, simply wait. Do not even wait, be quite still and solitary. The world will freely offer itself to you to be unmasked. It has no choice. It will roll in ecstasy at your feet.”

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22)

Let’s talk about changing your mind. In some quarters, that’s seen as weak, even embarrassing. But I regard it as a noble necessity, and I recommend you consider it in the near future. Here are four guiding thoughts: 1. “Progress is impossible without change, and those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything.”—George Bernard Shaw; 2. “Only the strongest people have the pluck to change their minds, and say so, if they see they have been wrong in their ideas.”—Enid Blyton; 3. “Sometimes, being true to yourself means changing your mind. Self changes, and you follow.”—Vera Nazarian; 4. “The willingness to change one’s mind in the light of new evidence is a sign of rationality, not weakness.”―Stuart Sutherland.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

“The soul moves in circles,” psychologist James Hillman told us. “Hence our lives are not moving straight ahead; instead, hovering, wavering, returning, renewing, repeating.” In recent months, Virgo, your soul’s destiny has been intensely characterized by swerves and swoops. And I believe the

rollicking motion will continue for many months. Is that bad or good? Mostly good—especially if you welcome its poetry and beauty. The more you learn to love the spiral dance, the more delightful the dance will be.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

If you’ve ever contemplated launching a career as a spy, the coming months will be a favorable time. Likewise if you have considered getting trained as a detective, investigative journalist, scientific researcher or private eye. Your affinity for getting to the bottom of the truth will be at a peak, and so will your discerning curiosity. You will be able to dig up secrets no one else has discovered. You will have a knack for homing in on the heart of every matter. Start now to make maximum use of your superpowers!

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

Have you been sensing a phantom itch that’s impossible to scratch? Are you feeling less like your real self lately and more like an AI version of yourself? Has your heart been experiencing a prickly tickle? If so, I advise you not to worry. These phenomena have a different meaning from the implications you may fear. I suspect they are signs you will soon undertake the equivalent of what snakes do: molting their skins to make way for a fresh layer. This is a good thing! Afterward, you will feel fresh and new.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

According to legend, fifth-century Pope Leo I convinced the conquering army of Attila the Hun to refrain from launching a full-scale invasion of Italy. There may have been other reasons in addition to Leo’s persuasiveness. For example, some evidence suggests Attila’s troops were superstitious because a previous marauder died soon after attacking Rome. But historians agree that Pope Leo was a potent leader whose words carried great authority. You, Sagittarius, won’t need to be quite as fervently compelling as the ancient Pope in the coming weeks. But you will have an enhanced ability to influence and entice people. I hope you use your powers for good!

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Singer-songwriter Joan Baez has the longevity and endurance typical of many Capricorns. Her last album in 2018 was released 59 years after her career began. An article in The New Yorker describes her style as “elegant and fierce, defiant and maternal.” It also noted that though she is mostly retired from music, she is “making poignant and unpredictable art,” creating weird, hilarious line drawings with her non-dominant hand. I propose we make Baez your role model. May she inspire you to be elegant, fierce, bold and compassionate as you deepen and refine your excellence in the work you’ve been tenaciously plying for a long time. For extra credit, add some unexpected new flair to your game.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

Aquarian author and activist Mary Frances Berry has won numerous awards for her service on behalf of racial justice. One accomplishment: She was instrumental in raising global awareness of South Africa’s apartheid system, helping to end its gross injustice. “The time when you need to do something,” she writes, “is when no one else is willing to do it, when people are saying it can’t be done.” You are now in a phase when that motto will serve you well, Aquarius.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20)

I invite you to spend quality time gazing into the darkness. I mean that literally and figuratively. Get started by turning off the lights at night and staring, with your eyes open, into the space in front of you. After a while, you may see flashes of light. While these might be your optical nerves trying to fill in the blanks, they could also be bright spirit messages arriving from out of the void. Something similar could happen on a metaphorical level, too. As you explore parts of your psyche and your life that are opaque and unknown, you will be visited by luminous revelations.

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Senior Notice to CreditorsCarma Wardle has passed away on September 7, 2023. Please contact 316-993-8357

Software Engineering, Director (Health Catalyst Inc; South Jordan, UT): Responsible for building performant, scalable & secure Web Apps. Min req’s: Bach or equiv in Comp Sci or related +8 yrs of sw dev exp. + add’l reqs. Alt: Master’s in same +6 yrs of sw dev exp. + add’l reqs. Telecommuting permitted w/in commuting distance of HQ in South Jordan, UT. Send resume: Lindsey Harris, People Ops at: lindsey.harris@healthcatalyst.com.

Pamper Yourself

Beauticians that come to you in the comfort of your own space

board

45. ____ queen

46. Barrel of laughs

47. Abraham Lincoln’s first Vice President

54. Notion

55. “I’m such a butterfingers!”

56. Nabisco name since 1967

58. Abbott and Costello, e.g. (or what the words in 17-, 22-, 38- and 47-Across each start with)

63. Longtime New York archbishop Timothy

64. Mike’s partner in candy

65. Rest spot for a camel

66. Expiration date words 67. Pompous person 68. Foot massage targets

1. Play-____

2. Actress who, with Ethan, is a parent to actress Maya Hawke

3. Male sheep

4. Bubble bath sigh 5. ____ Image Awards 6. Friedlander of “30 Rock”

7. Madison Square Garden, for one 8. Neither Dem. nor Rep. 9. Classic sandwich initials

Ivory Props

Local builders have seen a silver lining in Utah’s housing crisis. Whereas new residential construction almost ground to a halt during the pandemic due to extreme materials shortages (lumber, drywall, steel, etc.), homebuilding is back with a vengeance as builders have adjusted and are now offering incentives to woo buyers back.

Offerings of lower mortgage rates and upgrades in building materials at no cost are common now with many of our large and small developers.

10. “Us, too!”

11. Take ____ from (copy)

12. Mr., Mrs. or Mx.

13. Vermeer and Rembrandt contemporary

18. Thumbs-down vote

22. Poppycock

23. Spot for an inconspicuous tattoo, perhaps

24. Louvre Pyramid designer I.M.

25. Shop tool

26. “Kiss Me Deadly” singer Ford

27. Emerson’s “____ Beauty”

28. Worked a club, say

31. “SNL” alum Oteri

32. Actress Sonia of “Moon Over Parador”

33. Sheeran and Sullivan 34. Often-dystopian

name when spelled backward

50. They can be deceiving

51. They may be mobile

52. Gibbon, e.g.

53. Early PC platform

57. Whichever

58. Org. in many Tom Clancy books

59. Ming whose number was retired by the Rockets

60. Ethernet alternative

61. One-eighty

62. 58-Down forerunner

Last week’s answers

I have to give props to the state’s largest homebuilder—Ivory Homes. They have built more than 23,000 single-family homes and 3,000 apartment units in 70 communities in and around the Intermountain West, with 200-plus unique home designs.

CEO Clark Ivory has pledged that, beginning this year, all their new builds will be moving to Energy Star ratings, with appliances having smart thermostats as well as smart sprinkler controllers added at no cost.

What is Ivory Homes worth? Ivory Homes’ annual revenue is roughly $490 million, according to the website Zippia. A charitable foundation created by Ivory Homes and FJ Management— the company that owns the Maverik and Kum & Go chains of convenience stores, among other things—have committed to work together to build 850 rent-subsidized apartments in seven Utah cities.

Those cities include Salt Lake City, South Jordan, Draper, Magna, Lehi, Francis (in Summit County) and Park City, in a project the two groups are calling “Housing for Impact”

X

SUDOKU

1 to

Complete the grid so that each row, column, diagonal and 3x3 square contain all of the numbers

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.

Many of the new housing options will be built near community centers for seniors and other groups in need. One example is a 2.23-acre site of the Liberty Wells Center at 707 S. 400 East in SLC. That building will be bulldozed and replaced with 36 townhomes and 30 apartments and called Innovation Park, with three-fourths of the units considered moderate-income housing at market rates.

Other projects will include 200 apartments near Vista Station in Draper, more than 200 units in Lehi near the new Primary Children’s hospital, 138 apartments for seniors along the South Jordan Parkway, 300-ish small homes and townhomes in Magna, 15 homes in Park City and homes and apartments in Francis along State Route 32. They will also focus on units built with allelectric HVAC, greener appliances and waterwise landscaping.

To generate ideas for affordable housing, Ivory Homes last week sponsored its annual 24-hour Hacka-House contest for student designs. Winning applicants were awarded a prize from profit and nonprofit companies and government groups.

Yes, Utah is in crisis mode when it comes to affordable housing, and so I give a nod to these folks trying to make an impact on the issue and pay it forward for years to come. n

NEWS of the WEIRD

BY THE EDITORS AT ANDREWS MCMEEL

Mistaken Identity

As dog-walkers passed the Seascape Cafe in Chapel St. Leonards, England, on Sept. 6, they were startled to see what they thought was a “ritual mass murder” inside, United Press International reported. Police were called to the scene, but it turns out the people lying on their backs were just taking part in a yoga meditation exercise. The class’s teacher, Millie Laws, said class members had dispersed before officers arrived, and assured the community on her Facebook page that “(w) e are not part of any mad cult or crazy clubs. ... They were all participating in a beautiful deep relaxation, and it could have never run through any of our minds that it could be taken this way.” Namaste.

Life Goals

n Zach Swope, 32, of Carlisle, Pennsylvania, had a worthy goal in mind when he set out to capture a Guinness World Record: He wanted to raise awareness for mental health issues. To that end, Regal Cinemas donated $7,777.77 to the American Federation for Suicide Prevention after Swope saw 777 films in 365 days, United Press International reported. He started in July 2022 with Minions: Rise of Gru and finished with Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny Swope wisely bought a Regal Unlimited Membership for $22 per month, which allowed him to see as many films as he could. He said he generally saw up to three movies every weekday after work and a few on the weekends, but he was not allowed to take bathroom breaks or have snacks or drinks during the films. What was his favorite? Across the Spider-Verse .

n In Brezna, Montenegro, seven individuals are competing for the resort village’s coveted title of “Laziest Citizen,” Reuters reported—and all they have to do is lie down. The contest, which promises a prize of $1,070, is held every year; it started in 2012 to mock a popular stereotype of Montenegrins being lazy. In 2022, a record of 117 hours was set. But after 20+ days and nearly 500 hours, seven of the 2023 lazy competitors—down from the 21 who started—were still at it. (Don’t worry: Each person gets 10 minutes every eight hours to visit the restroom.) Last year’s champion, Dubravka Aksic, 38, said they all “feel good, excellent, there are no health problems, they are pampering us, all we have to do is remain lying down.” “Time goes by quickly,” said Filip Knezevic, 23, who is determined to take the prize.

Police Report

John McKee, 51, of Vincennes, Indiana, landed in the Knox County jail on Aug. 23 after a state trooper observed him driving a Power Wheels Jeep around 9 p.m. on a city street. According to police, the toy car didn’t have lights or reflectors, and McKee failed a field sobriety test, The Smoking Gun reported. He told the officer that he had crystal meth and marijuana in his system. He was released on bond, and his fancy ride was collected by Troy’s Towing, a trooper said.

The Golden Age of Air Travel

n A Swiss airlines flight on Sept. 9 from Zurich to Bilbao, Spain, took off without one key element in place: the passengers’ luggage. Yahoo! News reported that although passengers waited for two hours in Spain for their luggage to arrive, it never did. Company spokesperson Kavin Ampalam explained: “There was a shortage of ground staff,” and after waiting for more than an hour, they decided to take off anyway. The pilot apologized to passengers for the delay but failed to mention the lack of luggage on board. “We understand the situation is not favorable for the people involved, and of course we regret the inconvenience,” Ampalam said. Or worse: “Our vacation is ruined,” said passenger Carsten Redlich.

n Travelers aboard a Delta flight from Ghana to New York on Sept. 8 made an unexpected 12-hour detour to remote Terceira Island in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, the New York Post reported, and the airline didn’t have much sympathy for them. The plane experienced a “mechanical issue with a backup oxygen system,” a spokesperson said. Nana Asante-Smith, one of the passengers, said people on board were enclosed in a “partitioned section” because of visa regulations and “had no access to food” or water. Finally, the airport provided sandwiches, juice boxes and crackers. Flyers couldn’t get any information from Delta, and one airport staffer told the group they “shouldn’t start a revolution” and should be grateful that their plane didn’t crash into the sea. When a replacement plane arrived, the group’s luggage was not transferred to the new aircraft, and some travelers waited days for their items to be recovered.

Weird Science

Researchers with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), exploring the Gulf of Alaska in early September, stumbled upon a “golden orb” on the ocean floor that they can’t identify, Yahoo! News reported. Scientists used a remotely operated vehicle to survey deepwater habitats; the object, which was about 4 inches in diameter and had a tear near its base, was perched on a rock 2 miles deep. “While we were able to collect the ‘golden orb’ and bring it onto the ship, we still are not able to identify it beyond the fact that it is biological in origin,” NOAA said.

Repeat Offender

Reza Baluchi just can’t stop getting into trouble with the U.S. Coast Guard, NPR reported. The Iranian-born man from Florida was arrested on Aug. 29 after officers tried for three days to convince him to abandon his plan: running across the Atlantic Ocean in a “hamster wheel” fitted with buoys, with his final destination being London, England—4,000 miles from his starting point. He tried similar stunts in 2014, 2016 and 2021, “all of which resulted in USCG intervention,” said Coast Guard Special Agent Michael Perez. In a short documentary made about Baluchi by Vice, he explained his motivation: “If you drive a boat, nobody cares. Bubble, nobody did before. ... Make me crazy. They stop me every time, they save my life. I don’t no need it, save my life.” After the 2016 incident, the Coast Guard sank Baluchi’s bubble, so he redesigned and built a new one. He faces charges of obstruction of boarding and violation of a captain of the port order.

The Criminal Mind

The North Wales Police are warning residents about a new strategy being used by burglars, Sky News reported. Criminals are leaving Christmas gnomes in people’s front gardens, then watching to see if the little figurines are moved. That way, they can discern whether residents are away and the home is an easy target. “We would advise residents to be vigilant,” a spokesperson for the police said. Dodgy.

Surprise!

Goodwill employees in Goodyear, Arizona, were startled on Sept. 5 when they opened a donated box and found a human skull inside, The Arizona Republic reported. The skull still had some of the teeth attached and featured a false eye set in the left eye socket. Goodyear Police spokesperson Lisa Berry said they believed it to be “historic” and to have no “forensic significance, meaning there appears to be no associated crime.” The Goodwill store would not comment on whether the skull will be added to the store’s shelves (perfect for Halloween!) or how it would be priced.

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