City Weekly December 11, 2025

WOMEN’S WORK

BY KATHARINE BIELE

By Katharine Biele

S AP

BOX

Black Friday Economy

Americans, the Associated Press reports, spent a record $11.8 billion online on “Black Friday” (the day after Thanksgiving) this year ... and another record $6.4 billion on Thanksgiving itself.

Physical, in-store traffic for Black Friday also ticked up versus the previous week, although shopping for deals has strongly moved online in recent years.

What caught my eye about the story, though, was the headline, which suggests the record sales occurred “despite wider economic uncertainty.”

“Despite?” More likely, in my opinion, “because.”

With inflation still running at about 3% annually, prices subject to Donald Trump’s seemingly random tariff policies, the job situation looking more uncertain and unpredictable than it has since the COVID-19 panic, etc., what have American consumers been up to?

I can tell you what they’ve been up to, because I’ve been up to it myself.

What we’ve all been up to is “waiting for the best deal if the purchase isn’t an emergency.”

I started waiting in early October, right after Amazon’s “Big Prime Deal Days” sale. Not on groceries and stuff like that, obviously. But on electronics, household goods and other non-perishables, I kept a running list in my head of things I needed or wanted and held off on buying until I started seeing “early Black Friday deals.”

Unless you’re wealthy, you probably did the same thing.

The big sales bumps for Black Friday, Cyber Monday, etc., aren’t a sign that the economy’s great. They’re a sign that we’re

watching our money even more than usual, waiting for the sale price instead of paying MSRP.

Fortunately, our own uncertainty is mirrored by the uncertainty of retailers. As you may have noticed, we see a lot more “big sales” these last few years.

Retailers love to sell lots of stuff yearround, but when no one can know what prices—and incomes—will look like next week, it feels like the best time to get those items out the door and the money in the bank is “ASAP.”

That probably explains the ever-expanding nature of “Black Friday.”

Even a few years ago, that event fell on … um … Friday. Then we started seeing “Cyber Monday,” then “early Black Friday deals” and, I noticed this year, “Black Friday Week.” A few years from now, the big pre-holiday sales event may be called, simply, “November.”

We’re keeping an eye out for especially good deals for two reasons. First, we don’t know what tomorrow will look like. Second, we strongly suspect it won’t look as good as today.

We have lived in more optimistic, less uncertain times. But this isn’t one of those times.

It’s not just a Trump thing. His second presidency may—and hopefully does— represent the pinnacle of massive government debt coupled with cockamamie tax and trade policy, but he didn’t invent those problems.

Trump just inherited them and put them on steroids.

Here’s hoping you found what you were looking for on, or around, Black Friday. And that you won’t feel like you have to watch your bank balance quite so closely next year. Happy holidays.

THOMAS L. KNAPP

The William Lloyd Garrison Center for Libertarian Advocacy Journalism

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

THE WATER COOLER

What is the last thing you searched on Google?

Kayla Dreher

“Dylan Efron Dancing with the Stars Lift.”

Eric Granato

“Meteor 75mm FPV Drone parts.”

Wes Long

Some minor factual details in proofreading this week’s issue, of course!

Christa Zaro

“Ralph Lauren puffer coat.”

Bryan Bale

I just now Googled how to see my search history. I was reminded that I switched off my Web & App Activity history, so I can’t see any of my previous queries.

Chelsea Neider

“Utah time.”

Paula Saltas

“Is Mountain America mobile app down.” And if you are reading this, it is

John Saltas’ birthday today, so wish him a Happy Birthday!

Benjamin Wood

This will be strange out of context but:

“Soyboy vs yes Chad meme generator.”

After that it’s a bunch of “phrases with XXXX” queries since I’m constantly trying to think of clever headlines.

OPINION

BY CHRISTOPHER SMART

Freedom of Speech

In the wake of the killing of white nationalist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University, the right has been howling for freedom of speech at colleges and universities— except when they don’t. Darcie Little Badger cancelled her guest speech at Weber State University after she was told not to use certain words and concepts, as per Utah law.

The Salt Lake Tribune reports that Weber State officials instructed that such things as equity, diversity and inclusion, anti-racism, bias, oppression and intersectionality were off-limits. As a Native American, much of Little Badger’s narrative takes into account many of those things.

But hold on, the law, HB261, does not forbid using those words. It does ban universities and colleges from providing services that cater to any specific identity group and prohibits schools from having offices or positions that include the words “diversity, equity and inclusion.” But Weber State officials determined that censorship was the better part of valor: “[T]he speaker (Little Badger) was provided information to help them understand and comply with programming guidelines established by HB 261.”

And so, the university is not a place where all ideas are welcome, particularly where officials don’t have the intestinal fortitude to stand up for the First Amendment.

Santa Claus Stole Christmas From the Druids Hey Wilson, did you ever wonder where Santa came from. No, not the North Pole. How did he appear one day, centuries after Jesus Christ? It gets confusing, particularly these days when we celebrate Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Giving Tuesday ... .

Believe it or not, it all started with pagan Druids who believed in a bunch of different gods. They celebrated the shortest day of the year on December 22nd—the winter solstice—hoping to coax the return of the sun. Then, the Christians came along and liked the idea of celebrating during the cold, dark winter. Before you could say, pass the eggnog, they deemed December 25th as Christ’s birthday—in effect hijacking the pagan holiday.

No Wilson, there still was no sign of Santa Claus until folklore picked up on the 4th Century Christian bishop Saint Nicholas—the patron saint of children—who is said to be into secret gift-giving.

Somewhere along the line, St. Nick merged with the English character Father Christmas into somebody called Sinterklass, who morphed into Santa Claus.

Pretty soon, Santa was going around the world on his sleigh with eight reindeer. Then Santa was at the mall. Then David Sedaris came out with his “Santaland Diaries” and Jesus had become something of an afterthought. Oh well, there’s always Easter and chocolate bunnies and egg hunts.

War Crime But No War … Wait a Minute

Here’s the situation: We don’t know the situation. You just can’t believe your lyin’ eyes.

The U.S. has to date blown up 23 small vessels, killing at least 80 people, off the coast of Venezuela that Trump et al. insist are drug runners—or in their parlance, “narco-terrorists.”

On Sept. 2, a U.S. military aircraft fired a heat-seeking missile at an alleged drug trafficking boat, killing nine of the 11 on board. Two survivors were seen clinging to the wreckage, and three more missiles were fired, killing them; those shots were clearly illegal.

Some call it a war crime, but Congress has declared no war. Not to worry, Trump has—even though the Constitution does not authorize him to do so.

Let’s back up: Why would a drug runner be carrying all

those people? It makes no sense. Why was that boat targeted in the first place? We have no evidence drugs were on board or that any cargo was bound for the U.S. Trump and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth are happy to take credit for the first Sept. 2 strike, but not the additional ones. The first shot was against the international rules of engagement, as well as American law. It makes no sense, but it does fit the hallmark for Trump and his administration: confusion, chaos and uncertainty.

Postscript—That’ll do it for another festive week here at Smart Bomb, where we keep track of Trump’s naps so you don’t have to.

That’s right, Wilson, the president stays up to all hours posting nasty missives on the internet and then dozes off during cabinet meetings and other official gatherings. We’re talking sound asleep.

At his recent cabinet meeting, he fell asleep while the secretaries of worship heaped praise on him. Just call him “Sleepy Don.” He makes “Sleepy Joe” look like the Energizer Bunny.

There was some good news last week, despite the 34-7 shellacking the BYU football Cougars took from Texas Tech. The Cougs will meet Georgia Tech in the Pop-Tarts Bowl. No Wilson, we aren’t making this up, there actually is a Pop-Tarts Bowl. Who knew?

There are 43 bowl games: the Cotton Bowl; the Orange Bowl; the Rose Bowl; the Sugar Bowl; the Peach Bowl; the Gasparilla Bowl; the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl; the Gator Bowl; the Alamo Bowl ... well, you get the picture. By the way, the Utah football Utes will meet Nebraska in the Las Vegas Bowl.

Each of the “Power Conferences” that send teams to the Orange, Rose and Sugar Bowls receive $79 million. The other five conferences split $103 million. And that’s why they call it money ball. CW

Private Eye is off this week. Christopher Smart writes the weekly “Smart Bomb” column, available at cityweekly.net.

Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, recovering from an injury or surgery, or just looking for a safe, effective treatment to improve your quality of life, SoftWave Therapy can help.

TODAY!

HITS & MISSES

BY KATHARINE BIELE

HIT: Speak No Evil

With all the nonsensical laws to codify ideology over good sense, the pushback is heartening. Take the war on diversity, equity and inclusion, which has morphed into an attack on communist thinking. Earlier this year, the Utah Board of Education rejected a resolution to “comply” with President Donald Trump’s executive order to do away with DEI. Of course, the state still has a law that bans DEI, possibly because of fear of losing federal funding. The eye-popping resolution attempted to tie DEI to Marxist ideology and “Soviet policy goals.” Then in a recent slap to the law, indigenous author Darcie Little Badger cancelled a speaking engagement at Weber State University after receiving a list of banned words. “How are we supposed to talk about the reality of being Native without talking about these words?” she told The Salt Lake Tribune. Simply, you can’t.

MISS: Red Lights

It has been a long time since Salt Lake City residents began raising the issue of synchronized traffic lights. The city saw its first interconnected traffic signal system in 1917. And the UDOT Traffic Operations Center integrates 1,500 signals statewide, with 500 cameras and 100 electronic signs. Despite lots of traffic, it’s pretty good at it. After all, Salt Lake City was home to the nation’s first electronic traffic signal in 1912. So, why do vehicles still pile up, spew pollution and continue to present a danger to bicyclists and pedestrians? The Legislature seemed to think it had an answer—that the city was doing it all wrong. A state-mandated study came down on some traffic-calming methods that impacted emergency vehicles and businesses, prompting the mayor to promise more public input. But the advocacy group Sweet Streets concluded that “the main takeaway … was that the street design changes had minimal impact on travel time, and that traffic signal timing was a more important factor.”

MISS: Health Careless

The rubber’s about to meet the road on health care. For 15 years, Republicans in Congress have been railing against the Affordable Care Act—because of communism or socialism or something. Since it passed in 2010, they have claimed to have a plan in action ... coming soon. Just repeal ObamaCare, they say. In fact, that may be coming up on deadline after a vow to vote on health care ended the government shutdown. Most people don’t think repeal is likely. The New York Times and Salt Lake Tribune both threw shade on the idea. Meanwhile, the Trib received many comments about unaffordable insurance, and an op-ed writer recounted her frustration with Utah’s congressional delegation as premiums skyrocket: “This is not sustainable, and it feels like there is no one coming to help.” CW

On Pointe

Abeloved holiday tradition is a family trip to see Ballet West’s The Nutcracker. The annual production was even designated last year as a Living Historic Landmark in Utah, the first designation of its kind for a ballet. What many may not know is that Ballet West was an evolution of the Utah Civic Ballet Program, created by Willam Christensen, who had previously co-founded the San Francisco Ballet. Christensen also created America’s first Nutcracker production in 1944 during World War II, and Ballet West has been performing it in Utah since 1954, making it one of the longestrunning productions in the country.

“They wanted something that would bring joy to the people at the time during the war. And I think that’s what it is,” said Dana Rimington, communications director for Ballet West. “It just brings people joy in a world where sometimes it’s not so joyous.”

The story of The Nutcracker begins at the Stahlbaum home on Christmas Eve. Mr. and Mrs. Stahlbaum and their children, Clara and Fritz, are busy preparing for the evening festivities. The clock strikes 8:00 p.m. and Clara’s godfather, Dr. Drosselmeyer, arrives.

He gives Clara a nutcracker designed in the form of a small soldier and she falls in love with it at once. From there, audiences are taken through adventures including an evil Mouse King and his soldiers and an enchanted winter wonderland, while listening to a live orchestra perform Tchaikovsky’s timeless score.

Ballet West maintains its own inhouse costume and production departments, which builds and manages all the sets and costumes, a rarity for most ballet companies. While the Grandfather Clock—built in the early ‘60s—is the one prop that has stood in every Ballet West production, the eponymous nutcracker doll used onstage has undergone several evolutions.

The sheer scale of the production is part of the ballet’s enduring appeal and special place in the community. From eight rotating casts—including more than 300 children—to 63 production staff members, 7,000 pounds of dry ice to create smoke, 350 lighting instruments, 158 total costumes, 34 pairs of pointe shoes worn each performance and the $8,000 value of the Sugar Plum Fairy costume that takes 40 hours of labor … needless to say, there is extensive behind-the-scenes work.

“Many of the dancers started dancing because of The Nutcracker,” Rimington said, noting one example, Adrian Fry, who was inspired by the show as a child. “After seeing it for the first time, and now they’re dancing it, and they hope to share that magic with other people.”

While creators no longer need to use rationed material for costumes—as they did during wartime—The Nutcracker is a source of joy and magic for the community, fulfilling its original purpose from its creation.

The production is scheduled at the Capitol Theatre from Dec. 12 to Dec. 27, with tickets and information available at boxoffice.balletwest.org.

| @kathybiele BY: ARICA ROBERTS

A&E

Have Yourself an Artsy Little Christmas

Gifts to give to support the local arts community.

BY SCOTT RENSHAW scottr@cityweekly.net @scottrenshaw

If you’re scrambling to figure out what to get for those hard-to-buy-for folks on your holiday list, and you’re also trying hard not to support businesses with … let’s just say questionable positions on the issues that matter to you, you need not despair. One of the best ways to support local businesses while looking like a thoughtful gift-giver is to offer an opportunity for experiences—specifically, experiences with books, theater, museums and more in the Utah arts and culture community. Here’s just a sampling of some of the ways you can accomplish that.

ArtTix gift certificates/theater tickets: For good reason, gift certificates have become a popular way to offer gift recipients options—and it’s hard to beat the options under the ArtTix umbrella (saltlakecountyarts.org). It serves as the ticket stop for major Salt Lake County venues like the Eccles Theater, Rose Wagner Center, Capitol Theatre and Abravanel Hall, which means your gift certificate could allow people to experience touring Broadway shows, headliner music and comedy acts, Utah Symphony & Opera, Ballet West and a multitude of theater and dance companies producing

shows throughout the year. Gift certificates can be for any amount and are good for five years, so there’s little chance of the recipient not being able to find something t hat will be the right live-performance fit for them. Meanwhile, don’t forget other local theater organizations like Pioneer Theatre Company (pioneertheatre.org) and Salt Lake Acting Company (saltlakeactingcompany.org) for individual show tickets.

Museum/venue memberships: Some gifts can last the whole year long and provide hours of entertainment for individuals and families. If you’re buying for animallovers, check out annual memberships for Utah’s Hogle Zoo ($129 duo / $219 family, hoglezoo.org), Loveland Living Planet Aquarium ($69.95 adult / $54.95 child, livingplanetaquarium.org) or Tracy Aviary ($45 individual / $75 duo / $120 family, tracyaviary.org). These memberships include not just regular access to the facilities and exhibits, but perks like gift shop discounts, early access to special events and summer camps, discounts for add-on animal experiences and more. Other educational and aesthetic experiences await at venues like Red Butte Garden ($50 individual / $95 family, redbuttegarden. org), with benefits including advance sales and discounts on the amphitheater summer concert series; Thanksgiving Point ($144 individual / $324 family, thanksgivingpoint.org), including access to the Museum of Ancient Life, Ashton Gardens, Museum of Natural Curiosity, plus earlyaccess and discounts on special events and classes; Natural History Museum of Utah ($75 individual / $199 family, nhmu.utah. edu), with fascinating exhibits and access to special events; and Discovery Gateway ($175 trio / $250 family, discoverygateway. org), including free parking and discounts

The Aquarium Lantern Festival at Loveland Living Planet is among the perks for

on museum summer camps. Don’t forget options like the Salt Lake Film Society (starting at $60 a year, slfs.org), with a range of membership levels that can include discounted movie tickets, free tickets, concessions discounts and specialevent access.

Buy the book: If you know a book-lover, you know there’s always something to read that they’ll love. And you know you’re not going to obtain it from a massive online monolith. Take a leisurely browse through any one (or all) of the area’s wonderful independent booksellers, including The King’s English Bookshop (kingsenglish.com), Lovebound Library (loveboundlibraryslc.com), Under the Umbrella (undertheumbrellabookstore.com), Weller Book Works (wellerbookworks.com), Ken Sanders Rare Books (kensandersrarebooks.com) and The Legendarium (legendariumbooks.com). If you really want to step up your “shop local” game, ask an employee at any of these locations to point you towards Utah authors whose work you can support, ranging from young-adult to romance, genre fiction to historical nonfiction, poetry and more.

Support local visual artists: The thriving community of Utah-based painters, sculptors, mixed-media creators, printmakers and more could be even more thriving with your assistance. A great way to discover them is through the local galleries at which their work is represented, and Gallery Stroll (gallerystroll.org) includes a terrific directory to get you started. Many of these galleries are featuring group shows for the holidays, so you can get a look at a wide range of work to see what might be the right choice for that special someone. Share opportunities to create: Even if not everyone is meant to be a professional artist, there are creative gifts locked up inside of everyone. Think about how you might help folks tap into that side of themselves, from fine arts classes at venues like Workshop SLC (workshopslc.com) and Art Haus (arthaus-slc.com), to workshops for aspiring writers at the Community Writing Center (slcc.edu/cwc). The holidays should be a time for celebrating all the most joyous things in life, so whether it’s helping people create art, or supporting others who do, think creatively about your giftgiving this year. CW

theESSENTIALS ENTERTAINMENT PICKS,

God Is a Scottish Drag Queen Christmas Special

After nearly 15 years and several different incarnations, Canadian actor/comedian Mike Delamont’s God Is a Scottish Drag Queen has certainly become a brand. But it’s one with a name he never expected to stick around that long. As he shared with the Times Chronicle of British Columbia in 2020, “The character is God, has a Scottish accent and wears a ladies’ power suit. God Is A Scottish Drag Queen seemed to cover all of it. I thought one day I would come up with a better title, but I never did. … If people are upset about the show, it is because they have read the title and think that it is a comedy that belittles faith. The people who take the risk and buy a ticket realize that in this show, God is the comedian, not the punchline.”

Delamont’s jesting Almighty has headlined several different shows over the years, but the Christmas Special—which originated in 2018—has become the most popular, as the character takes on holiday traditions ranging from fruitcake to A Christmas Carol, but the material gets updated every year. So even if you’ve already had the pleasure of being in the divine presence, it will be just as heavenly this time around.

God Is a Scottish Drag Queen Christmas Special visits the Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center (138 S. 300 East) for two performances, Dec. 11 and Dec. 12 at 7 p.m.

Tickets are $36.50 - $53; visit saltlakecountyarts.org to purchase tickets and for additional event information. (Scott Renshaw)

2025 BEST OF UTAH WINNER 16 WINS SINCE 2015

THANKS FOR VOTING FOR US IN BEST OF UTAH!

UTAH’S BEST

GAY•GOTH•RAVER•VINTAGE•FESTIVAL CONSIGNMENT/THRIFT SHOP & BOUTIQUE!

WE SELL YOUR PRE-ROCKED STUFF, YOU KEEP 50% CASH!

Learn more about selling at iconoCLAD at iconoCLAD.com Find us at , , & wherever @iconoCLAD

855 S STATE STREET, SLC

MON-SAT: 10AM - 8PM

SUNDAY: 11AM - 6PM 801-833-2272

414 EAST 300 SOUTH, SLC

MON-SAT: 11AM - 8PM SUNDAY: 11AM - 6PM 385-432-3600

Opera Contempo: The Velveteen Rabbit

Upon discovering that Margery Williams’ beloved children’s book The Velveteen Rabbit had entered the public domain, Opera Contempo cofounder Mandi Barrus (pictured) immediately knew it was the kind of story she wanted for a potential recurring holiday production—but not necessarily the role she would have in creating it.

“For a year, I planned it out in my mind, but I never thought I would be the one to write the libretto,” Barrus said. “But a year ago, over Christmas break, it just sort of flowed through me. I felt like I just wanted to give it a go, and if it’s terrible, I won’t tell anyone. But it wasn’t!”

A year later, following a reading at Marmalade Library in February, The Velveteen Rabbit is getting its premiere holiday staging with music by Portland-based composer Lisa Neher in a piano-accompanied concert production. The one-act performance is designed to be appropriate for all ages, and Barrus—who has years of experience as an educator presenting in schools about opera—believes kids are more ready to experience the artform that one might assume. “I’ve seen their eyes open in wonder at an operatic voice,” she said. “They just need a tiny bit of education to know when to clap and be an audience member that knows how to listen and be receptive.”

Opera Contempo’s concert production of The Velveteen Rabbit takes place at the Salt Lake City Main Library Auditorium (210 E. 400 South) for one performance only on Saturday, Sept. 13 at 3 p.m. Admission is free, but RSVP is required to guarantee seats; visit operacontempo.com. (SR)

Star of Wonder

In 2019, Star of Wonder creator James Conlee first presented the story of Jack, a World War I veteran returning to his hometown in 1919 and reflecting on his regrets over not participating in the famous “Christmas truce” of 1914, during which German and British troops crossed No Man’s Land to celebrate the holiday together. Jack’s story provided the foundation for a “jukebox musical” including many beloved Christmas carols, but over time, Conlee sought to develop it into more than that. “The heart of the show was always intended to be our soldier, but we started to weave him into it more and more,” Conlee shared with City Weekly in 2022. “The feeling I had was, ‘That soldier’s story was great; I wish we had more of it.’”

Now in its seventh year, Star of Wonder has continued to evolve, appearing in different forms—including a “concert version” in 2024 rather than a full production—as new elements are added and Conlee keeps looking for ways to make the story better and more resonant. “The luxury and the downfall of having a Christmas show is you can only do it at that time of year. If you don’t fail—and we didn’t—it gives you a year to do some refinements.”

Star of Wonder comes to the West Valley Performing Arts Center (3333 S. Decker Lake Dr.) Dec. 15 – 20, with performances at 7:30 p.m. nightly and a 3 p.m. matinee on Saturday, Dec. 20. Tickets are $20 - $35; visit wvcarts.org/star-of-wonder to purchase tickets. (SR)

LIBAS BOUTIQUE NOW OPEN INSIDE!

Best Fried Chicken in Utah - 2022

Top three Best Shawarma 2024 & 2025!

2025

Fighting the Power

Ella McCay and The Secret Agent deal with shady political systems in very different ways.

BY SCOTT RENSHAW scottr@cityweekly.net @scottrenshaw

James L. Brooks has nothing to prove to anyone. At the age of 85, his legacy includes co-creating The Mary Tyler Moore Show, Taxi and The Simpsons; winning multiple Academy Awards for Terms of Endearment; and generally being the heartbeat of heartfelt comedy for (at least) two generations. So if he was going to come out of semi-retirement to make Ella McCay his first feature in 15 years, you’d think it would be because he had something in particular to say about our moment. But if so, I’ll be damned if I could tell you what it is.

For one thing, Brooks pointedly sets this movie not in our moment, but in 2008. That’s when 34-year-old Ella McCay (Emma Mackey), an ambitious progressive lawyer-turned-lieutenant governor of an unnamed state, gets a chance at taking on the big job after the governor (Albert Brooks) gets nominated for a Cabinet post. But her chance to push for her pet programs might be D.O.A. as she faces a potential sex scandal involving her husband (Jack Lowden), as well as the sudden reappearance of her estranged father (Woody Harrelson).

Brooks spins out an extensive origin story for Ella, involving her father’s multiple infidelities, the death of her mother (Rebecca Hall) and her relationship with her surrogate-mom aunt (Jamie Lee Curtis), none of which seem to have a particular impact on a personality that

seems fairly formed when she’s already a teenager. Ella is the same kind of female protagonist Brooks has favored for 50 years—determined, capable but also more than slightly neurotic—and Mackey plays an appealing spin on that type.

But there’s an almost aggressive lack of focus in this narrative, nowhere more obviously than in the significant time devoted to Ella’s agoraphobic brother Casey (Spike Fearn) and his eventual attempt to reconcile with a young woman he likes (Ayo Edebiri). Not only does that subplot distract from the person whose name is on the title, and prove weirdly awkward to watch, but it seemingly undercuts what could have been a unique thematic idea about the value of not forgiving those who have wronged you.

The result is jagged and frustrating comedy that, because Brooks hasn’t completely lost it, definitely has its highlights, like a box of cell phones that have been left outside of a meeting all going off at once when a big story breaks. It’s a movie of half-finished ideas, the way Brooks’ wouldbe musical I Love Trouble felt half-finished

when all of its songs were axed in postproduction. If Brooks is nostalgic for 2008, a little of it might be for a certain kind of politics where idealism was possible, but it also might be for a time when he could grasp an idea for a movie that was fully formed.

ELLA MCCAY BB

Emma Mackey

Jamie Lee Curtis Spike Fearn Rated PG-13 Available Dec. 12 in theaters

The Secret Agent BBB1/2

Sharks become a recurring motif in Kleber Mendonça Filho’s latest broadside against corrupt Brazilian society harming everyday people, and it’s a fitting way to explore people ending up in the path of amoral, remorseless machines of consumption. It opens with a man named Marcelo (Wagner Moura) journeying to the city of Recife circa 1977, where it soon becomes

clear that he’s gone into hiding for unknown reasons. The specifics of Marcelo’s story take quite a while to spin out over the course of more than two-and-a-half hours, as the plot gets fairly dense with background characters, side quests for Marcelo, odd symbolism—a two-facedcat makes an appearance—and eventually a framing story set in the present day, with a young woman (Laura Lufési) listening to audio recordings related to Marcelo’s fate. It is all perhaps unnecessarily dense, but there’s still some terrific material involving corrupt local police and the machinations of a greedy corporate boss (Luciano Chirolli), suggesting that one of the only hopes for surviving such entities is hoping they end up fighting against one another. Mendonça also builds to an impressively tense life-and-death chase, and gives us a great farewell to Udo Kier. It’s in the modern-day coda, though, that we get a real sense of the legacy of people who try to fight back, and whether it’s even possible to survive against the shark. (NR) Available Dec. 12 at Broadway Centre Cinemas. CW

Jamie Lee Curtis and Emma Mackey in Ella McCay

WOMEN’S WORK

UTAH FEMINISTS SEE BOTH PROGRESS AND SETBACKS IN THE FIGHT FOR GENDER EQUALITY.

BY KATHARINE BIELE COMMENTS@CITYWEEKLY.NET

Gone are the halcyon days of the women’s movement: Votes for Women; the ERA; bodily autonomy; and a collective will to change the culture.

“Look at statistics—they’re not good,” said Karen Shepherd, who helped launch Network Magazine in 1978 for working women. “You don’t have a lot of women in high places and if you talk about the economy, there aren’t women running things.”

Shepherd should know. She not only won a state Senate seat in Utah, but also a seat in Congress. She is one of only five Utah women to have served in Congress since statehood in 1896.

Today, despite women accounting for more than half of the U.S. population, only 28% of congressional lawmakers are women. In Utah’s Legislature, it’s not much better, with women holding only 29.8% of the seats.

Here’s a stunning headline from Forbes magazine: “Most Women Work For Free In December Due To Unequal Pay.” The Pew Research Center also showed that women were paid 15% less than men in 2024. It’s an uncomfortable reality and as such, Forbes wrote, people tend to brush it away. Pay and politics underscore that Utah women have an advocacy problem. Women are simply not turning out to vote, with Utah ranking 29th among the 50 states and District of Columbia, according to the Utah Women and Leadership Project at Utah State University.

And yet, Utah women like to recall a fun fact that they were the first to vote in the nation. Seraph Young cast a ballot in a Salt Lake City municipal election on February 14, 1870.

That didn’t last long. When Utah sought statehood, the practice of polygamy was cited as justification for disenfranchising women. Congressional lobbyists feared that all those plural wives would sustain polygamy and vote the way their husbands did. Part of the Edmunds-Tucker Act of 1887 stripped voting rights from all Utah women.

Sure, the 19th Amendment in 1920 gave some women the vote. But it was not until the 1965 Voting Rights Act that Black women were assured this fundamental right. You may have noticed the current U.S. Supreme Court justices slicing and dicing that act, and Congress trying to pass the SAVE Act, which would require women to register under their birth names.

“Frankly, our women get punished,” Shepherd said. “I was there and I got punished. Women are on the bottom of the pile.”

Year of the Woman

If you think voting rights were an easy win, you should have seen the production of Suffs at the Eccles Theater in November. The musical reenacted President Woodrow Wilson throwing suffragists in a workhouse, torturing them and force-feeding them during a hunger strike.

What happened to the women’s movement? The death knell may have started with the United Nations International Year of the Woman in 1977. It was a focus for the women’s community in Utah, and Shepherd was participating.

Here is a passage from Shepherd’s yet-to-be published memoir:

“During the last month of planning, we asked the Relief Society, the largest women’s organization in the world, to invite their members to participate. Ezra Taft Benson, then [Quorum] President and later the Prophet of the Mormon Church, wrote a letter (which I have saved in my papers) to Barbara Smith, President of the Relief Society, asking her to request every ward in the state send 10 women plus their friends to attend the conference and defend the Church’s principles of the faith and family. … We had rented the Salt Palace and prepared for 3,000. Thirteen thousand people came.”

The U.N. conference was replete with overtones of the Equal Rights Amendment, which Congress passed in 1972 but still had to be ratified. Simple enough, the amendments states: “Equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any state on account of sex.”

Each group of 10 came with a male escort. Shepherd remembered them as an angry mob, tearing down displays and voting against every resolution, “including those promoting expanded childcare and healthcare services, nutritional help for those in need, legal services for those unable to pay and policies advancing wage equity.”

Shepherd was dumbfounded, furious and began writing—first in Utah Holiday Magazine, then in Network after co-founding the publication, and finally in her governmental service.

Shepherd is perhaps a feminist of the Gloria Steinem ilk. She has seen feminism rise and fall and coast along in dramatic ways.

“My granddaughters give me hope,” she said.

“But they don’t know feminism.

“Roe v Wade? We fought that battle in the ‘70s. ... I want my daughters to feel that they have control over their lives.”—Cindy Kindred

Karen Shepherd, who served in the U.S. House from 1993 to 1995, is one of only five Utah women elected to Congress since statehood.

‘I Can Do Anything’

Perhaps the most iconic—if ironic—Utah feminist is Gayle Ruzicka, the enduring figurehead of the Eagle Forum. Asked about her role as a prominent political leader, she demurred.

“Feminism—there are so many definitions for feminism,” she said.

For instance, there’s Big Ocean Women, a conservative group of women who define feminism as a “commitment to faith, family, and our maternal identities,” which Ruzicka said is different from the early ERA.

“I went to a BYU meeting of Mormon Feminists years ago. There were men there, college age,” Ruzicka recalled. “Each intro said ‘I’m a Mormon feminist’ and they support equal rights and equality for women.”

Ruzicka was interested in talking to some of the women there, one of whom said she was offended that Ruzicka was even in the room. But talking to people is Ruzicka’s super power.

She mentioned the influence of Phyllis Schlafly, who had six children and still worked in politics. Ruzicka had 12 herself. Four of them have died, including two daughters who passed within days of each other. Legislators got used to seeing Ruzicka walking the halls with her children, all of whom she homeschooled.

“I would never have left them,” Ruzicka said. “They went up there with me for six weeks, doing their schoolwork. They were learning a lot. The legislators knew them and my boys testified on a gun bill.”

Ruzicka’s husband, Don, died in 2024. And still, she was seen at the Capitol that year doing what she does, with a broken arm.

“What is there that I can’t do?” she said. “I can do anything. I get treated better than men.”

To no one’s surprise, the Eagle Forum opposes the ERA. Abortion access is a big reason. And Ruzicka worries that the ERA would throw everything into the federal government’s hands.

And no, women do not make as much money. But Ruzicka believes that disparity could be remedied by legislation.

“Yes, I do believe there is equality for women,” she said.

Strange Bedfellows

Schlafly’s national Eagle Forum organization wears a Mormon garb in Utah. But the LDS church has a long and complicated relationship with feminism.

Female LDS authors and activists have been excommunicated, and groups like Ordain Women, founded in 2013, have hoped that advocacy could change the patriarchal structure of the institution. It was even front-page news—and lines around the block—when the church recently allowed a sleeveless variant of its sacred garments for women.

There are women who buck the system, like Heather Sundahl, a writer and media specialist at the Utah Women and Leadership Project. She is also a blogger for Exponent II, which features posts about Mormon feminism.

“Lots of Mormon feminists have left the church, and people ask me ‘why on earth do you stay?’,”

Sundahl said. “My religion is very lived.”

Sundahl said that organized religion provides opportunities to teach both skills and values to her children, while adding her family’s experiences to the diversity of the faith community.

“We have become too siloed,” Sundahl said, “but we’re all contradictions.”

Indeed. Mormon Women for Ethical Government, founded in 2017, has dived into activism over fair maps and redistricting, alongside the League of Women Voters of Utah (for which this author currently serves as president).

And while the MWEG describes itself as a “faithbased community of women dedicated to civic empowerment and engagement,” the organization does not identify as feminist. Still, some of their individual members do, said co-director Emma Petty Adams.

Mormonism and feminism are strange bedfellows, but Adams said she believes there is room within the faith for an expanded feminism that is “garment optional” and even pro-choice.

“It’s not ‘murder’ if you compare the LDS [stance on abortion] to other religions,” Adams said. “We’re crazy progressive.”

Are they, really? Despite some hesitancy from women, a majority of Utah voters supported Donald Trump by 21 points in the 2024 election. The president, by all measures, has been both derogatory and sexist in his approach to women, calling the female politicians and journalists who scrutinize him “ugly,” “dogs,” “nasty” and “piggy,” among other offensive characterizations.

Cindy Kindred moved to Utah in 1972, and what she saw was “built-in sexism.” Utah had a shaky childcare system and a dominant religion that at the time encouraged women to stay home with their families rather than enter the workforce.

“My big concern now is I see a national agenda talking about women having more babies and staying at home,” Kindred said. “It only reinforces a conservative bias.”

In 2017, Kindred helped lead busloads of Utah women to Washington, D.C., for the Women’s March following Trump’s first inauguration. Estimates had as many as 5.3 million people attending events around the country.

At that time, it was the largest single-day demonstration in the nation’s history and was only recently surpassed by the June 14 No Kings protests.

“When we went back to the Women’s March, we thought we’d won this battle,” Kindred said. “Roe v Wade? We fought that battle in the ‘70s. I have two daughters and I want my daughters to feel that they have control over their lives.”

To that end, she started the Utah Women & Politics PAC, which has raised $650,000 and supported 77 candidates who are committed to grassroots change from the bottom up.

“There’s always hope,” Kindred emphasized. “Women have to recognize they have power and they’re not dumb.” CW

COURTESY PHOTO

Heather Sundahl, a writer and practicing Latter-day Saint, believes there is room within Mormonism for pro-choice perspectives.

The Utah Eagle Forum’s Gayle Ruzicka is a longtime fixture on Capitol Hill, and often worked to pass or halt legislation alongside her children.

Continued from page 18

Publish or Perish

Local SLC authors’ book studies the life and work of renowned Utah Capitol architect Richard Kletting.

BY WES LONG COMMENTS@CITYWEEKLY.NET

“In seed time learn, in harvest teach, in winter enjoy,” wrote the poet William Blake. A little of each took place at Memory Grove’s Memorial House on November 19 in celebration of a new book by historians Allen Roberts and Nan Weber about famed architect Richard Kletting (1858-1943).

For Roberts and Weber, the event was a long-awaited harvest. For others, the arrival of Richard K. A. Kletting: Utah Architect and Renaissance Man might be the start of an instructive seed time to enjoy over the holiday season.

Combining their talents, the duo devoted a total of 10 years to put their book together, although their interest and study goes back even further. Roberts, a retired architect, said the book draws from research he worked on 50 years ago.

“Each one of us were working on [studies of Kletting] for several years before we got together,” Weber related to City Weekly.

The project fills a long-neglected area of study. While Kletting is renowned for his designs of landmark structures like the Utah State Capitol and the original Saltair pavilion, comparatively little has been written on Kletting’s life or on the breadth of his output, which encompasses public buildings, churches, schools, private residences and even landscaping.

At over 800 pages—with 1400 photos and illustrations—Roberts’ and Weber’s book goes a long way to get arms around the hundreds of Kletting originals that have graced—and in many cases, still grace—the Intermountain West.

“I haven’t seen something like this since the phone book!” laughed attendee Greg Forbush.

Amid the live music, visitors enjoyed refreshments and the warmth of a burning fire as they congratulated the authors, bought copies and mingled. Some, like Eric Rogers, intend to use the book as a means of appreciating the beauty and history of Salt Lake City’s built environment.

“I’m going to plan out my walks in the neighborhood to see some of these houses,” he said.

For others, like Robert Rampton, the event was another opportunity to support the study of state history, which he lamented is often avoided if it is not presented in an “entertaining and interesting” manner.

“I’ve got teenage grandchildren,” Rampton remarked. “I’d have to drag them to events like this.”

Even so, he remains optimistic about the power that stories, lives and artifacts from history can have upon any generation, provided that such can be brought to public attention.

And only then can Utahns take action.

For such priceless historical architecture as those by Richard Kletting, there are structures like the chateauesque Dinwoodey House (411 E. 100 South) which cry out for preservation before they are lost to neglect.

Others, like the Gibbs-Thomas House (137 N. West Temple), stand remarkably intact but nevertheless could use additional protections, in Roberts’ estimation. Such buildings, he stressed, among so many others, are “one of a kind.” He hopes their new book may plant some seeds so that Utah architecture will be enjoyed for many seasons ahead. CW

Editor Adrienne White (center) and coauthors Allen Roberts and Nan Weber. WES LONG

TRIP TO

HOSTED BY CITY WEEKLY FOUNDER, JOHN SALTAS

Since 2016 over 200 of our BEST FRIENDS have joined us on our annual trips to Greece. Great fun. Great Price. Great People.

THREE OPTIONS IN 2026 • RESERVE NOW!

THREE GREAT EUROPEAN CITIES

MAY 26 - JUNE 7

ROME • ATHENS • CHANIA, CRETE

BEAUTIFUL BLUE & WHITE CYCLADIC ISLANDS

SEPT 12 - SEPT 24

ATHENS • TINOS • ANDROS

ALEXANDER THE GREAT MEETS MAMMA MIA

SEPT 25 - OCT 7

ATHENS • KAVALA • SKIATHOS

Feasting With the Beast

Beast From the East is the real deal for sandwich fans.

BY ALEX SPRINGER comments@cityweekly.net @captainspringer

It’s become an annual tradition for me to review City Weekly’s Best of Utah issue and then kick myself for not visiting more winners earlier on in their career. I like to rectify this situation as soon as I can, and this year, I’m starting things off with Beast From the East Sandwichery. This buzzy East Coast-inspired sandwich shop just opened up a new South Salt Lake spot outside of its home at Cruzrs Saloon, and seeing how its cheesesteak game ranked just south of Moochie’s impressed me.

Beast from the East started out as a smaller outfit within Cruzrs last year, but this new spot is now the restaurant’s permanent home; the Cruzrs location is, unfortunately, no more. Owner Kris Davis is a New Jersey native and his love for the East Coast sandwiches he grew up with has been at the core of the Beast’s menu. Today, he runs things with the help of his wife, Megan, and the opening of this new location is a big move for their restaurant.

The Beast’s new digs are right on the corner of 1700 South and Main Street, in the space that previously belonged to Loco Burger. Gone is the yellow-andred paint job, making Beast From The East look a bit more complementary to next-door neighbor Manny’s, where you can now get one of the Beast’s signature sandwiches at the bar. Diners who grew

to enjoy the biker-bar vibes that the Beast cultivated at Cruzrs will be pleased with the new spot’s aesthetic and attitude.

It remains a great spot to enjoy a cheesesteak sandwich—it’s called the JD Philly Cheesesteak ($10.25 for half, $16.50 for full), and it’s a win for cheesesteak fans. It’s got everything you’d want in a classic Philly: shaved beef chopped and seared on a flattop, tossed with plenty of grilled onions and drenched in your choice of cheese. The half sandwich has enough bulk to be classified as a meal, and chipping in the extra $3 for an order of Sports Fries will make sure you leave fully satisfied. I thought these paprikaforward crinkle-cut fries made excellent munchies, and they come with an awesome white cheese dipping sauce. I may have drizzled my sandwich with this and I regret nothing.

Once you take a moment—a very brief moment—to appreciate the sandwich’s structural integrity, the next logical move is to figure out how to fit enough of it in your craw to take a bite. It’s a fun challenge to have and I think all good sandwiches require this of their diners. There’s no scenario where you can bite into this monster without making a mess, so feel free to just lean into the experience; each table has plenty of napkins. Each bite has the right mix of beef, onion and cheese, and the only thing keeping you from completely inhaling this sandwich is the searing heat of its innards.

As far as East Coast sandwiches go, it’s tough for anything to outshine the Philly. But Davis’ Jersey roots go deep, which is why the lesser-known Camden Chopped Cheese ($9.50 for half, $15.75 for full) is also on the menu. A chopped cheese is made with seared ground beef that is chopped up on the flattop and tossed with caramelized onions and American cheese

before hitting a bun dressed with lettuce, tomato, pickles and mayo.

The bones of this sandwich are similar to that of the Philly, but the seared ground beef makes for a much different experience. There’s more of a seared flavor to the chopped beef, and all that American cheese just slaps; you get the best parts of a cheeseburger combined with the best parts of a cheesesteak. My one gripe about this is the lettuce/tomato combo. I get that fresh sandwich veggies are usually part of a traditional chopped cheese, but the greenery wilts pretty quickly with all that hot beef on board. That said, the mayo and pickle can totally stick around, and both the additional creaminess and slight acidity were really nice.

It’s safe to say the hot sandwiches at Beast From the East are excellent—big, meaty, cheesy and satisfying to the last bite—and the cold sandwiches follow suit. The don of this particular portion of the menu has to be The Godfather ($10.25 for half, $16.50 for full), which packs the classic Italian deli combo of Genoa salami, ham, capicola and pepperoni, and adds provolone, lettuce, tomato, onion and a splash of olive oil and vinegar. Like its hot cousins, The Godfather is stuffed to bursting with sandwich goodness, and it’s perfect for anyone looking for an oldworld deli experience.

It’s yet another example of how Beast From the East feels like it’s brought a little piece of out-of-town along with it. Its interior feels like an East Coast sandwich shop and its menu definitely tastes the part. CW

The JD Philly by Beast From the East

2 Row Brewing

73 West 7200 South, Midvale 2RowBrewing.com

On Tap: “Juicequake” Juicy Style IPA

Avenues Proper

376 8th Ave, SLC avenuesproper.com

On Tap: Apricaldera (Jalapeño Apricot Wheat Ale)

Bewilder Brewing

445 S. 400 West, SLC BewilderBrewing.com

On Tap: Pink Boots - Pink Pony Pilz

Bohemian Brewery

94 E. Fort Union Blvd, Midvale BohemianBrewery.com

NEW Releases: Kölsch, Dusseldorfer “Alt” Bier

Bonneville Brewery

1641 N. Main, Tooele BonnevilleBrewery.com

On Tap: Peaches and Cream Ale

Chappell Brewing

2285 S Main Street

Salt Lake City, UT 84115 chappell.beer

On Tap: Pie Hole - Strawberry Rhubarb Tart Ale

Corner Brew Pub Sugar House

2110 S. Highland Drive, SLC cornerbrewpub.com

On Tap:  Top of Main Yuzu Bruzu Wheat Beer

Craft by Proper

1053 E. 2100 So., SLC properbrewingco.com

On Tap: I Am The Vvitch - golden ale with pumpkin and spices

Desert Edge Brewery

273 Trolley Square, SLC DesertEdgeBrewery.com

On Tap:  Centennial Steamer, California Common Lager

Epic Brewing Co.

825 S. State, SLC EpicBrewing.com

On Tap: Six New Big Bad Baptist Imperial Stout Variants

Etta Place Cidery

700 W Main St, Torrey EttaPlaceCider.com

On Tap: Legendary Cider, Mango-Habanero Session Mead

Fisher Brewing Co.

320 W. 800 South, SLC FisherBeer.com

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

Grid City Beer Works

333 W. 2100 South, SLC GridCityBeerWorks.com

On Tap: Barrel-aged Imperial Brown Ale

Heber Valley Brewing

501 N. Main Street, Heber City, UT hebervalleybrewing.com

Freshly Canned: ‘435’ American Pale Ale 6% ABV

Helper Beer

159 N Main Street, Helper, UT  helperbeer.com

Hopkins Brewing Co. 1048 E. 2100 South, SLC HopkinsBrewingCompany.com

On Tap: Pine Mountain Pale

Kiitos Brewing

608 W. 700 South, SLC KiitosBrewing.com

On Tap: Winter Ale, Kernza Lager

Kiitos Brewing Sugar House Bar 1533 S. 1100 East, SLC KiitosBrewing.com NOW OPEN!

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

On Tap: Hefe Goldbloom Hefeweizen

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

On Tap: Vienna Lager

Moab Brewing 686 S. Main, Moab TheMoabBrewery.com

On Tap:  “Big Drop” West Coast Pilsner

On Tap: Quince Cider

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

On Tap: DOPO IPA

Ogden Beer Company

358 Park Blvd, Ogden OgdenBeerCompany.com

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

Park City Brewing 1764 Uinta Way C1 ParkCityBrewing.com

On Tap: Billy’s Brown Ale

Prodigy Brewing 25 W Center St. Logan Prodigy-brewing.com On Tap: 302 Czech Pilsner

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

On Tap: Gungan Sith Lord (Czech Dark Lager)

Proper Brewing Moab 1393 US-191, Moab properbrewingco.com  On Tap: Gungan Sith Lord (Czech Dark Lager)

Red Rock Brewing 254 So. 200 West RedRockBrewing.com

On Tap: Gypsy Scratch

Red Rock Fashion Place 6227 So. State Redrockbrewing.com

On Tap: Grand Bavaria

Red Rock Kimball Junction 1640 Redstone Center Redrockbrewing.com

On Tap: Bamberg Rauch Bier

RoHa Brewing Project 30 Kensington Ave, SLC RoHaBrewing.com

On Tap: Holiday Ale

On Tap: Goggle Fogger - Hazy IPA Thieves Guild Cidery 117 W. 900 South, SLC thievesguildcidery.com

NEW: Thunderclap - Juicy tropical-hopped cider | 6.5%

Top of Main Brewery

250 Main, Park City,

BEER NERD

Smooth Operators

lineage creates an inviting aroma where rich roasted malt mingles perfectly with the scent of maple.

Consider nitrogen instead of carbon dioxide beers.

BY MIKE RIEDEL comments@cityweekly.net @utahbeer

Our theme this week is nitro-conditioned ale. Beers served on this lighter gas appear more on the sweet side than their more bitter CO2 cousins. Will nitro beers work for you? Let’s read on and find out.

Bewilder - Cleveland Nitro Brown Ale: Sometimes, the most satisfying beers aren’t the ones chasing the wildest trends, but the ones that execute a classic style with perfection. Bewilder’s Cleveland Nitro Brown Ale offers a drinking experience that is pure comfort.

The backbone of this beer is its truly great malt profile. From the moment it hits the palate, it delivers a rich wave of flavors, full of sticky toffee and the homey taste of toasty bread crust. It is a maltlover’s dream, evoking the best parts of a bakery in liquid form. The Bewilder team manages the sweetness well. A perfectly placed hint of bittering hops cuts through the richness, ensuring the toffee notes never become cloying or too sweet.

Verdict: The “x-factor” here is the dispense method. The nitro conditioning elevates the beer, smoothing out the body and creating a creamy mouthfeel that pairs beautifully with the toasted grain flavors. This ale makes me happy. It is a beer that brings a genuine smile to my face, offering a delicious, velvety escape from the ordinary.

Grid City - IHOB Nitro Maple Porter: When your brewery is next to an International House of Pancakes (IHOP), why wouldn’t you refer to your brewery’s maple syrup porter as being from the “IHOB.” The IHOB Nitro Maple Porter is a brew that offers a twist on the standard barrel-aged porter. The story of this beer is written in the wood: It was aged in maple syrup barrels that had previously housed bourbon. This unique

On the palate, the experience is best described in layers rather than a sugar rush. It starts with a solid foundation of roasted malt, featuring distinct notes of char and bitter cocoa. Just as the roast establishes itself, the maple influence kicks in, providing a distinct sweetness. Because of the barrel’s history, there are also subtle whiskey elements floating around, accompanied by smooth vanilla notes derived from the wood.

Verdict: Despite the maple syrup connection, this is not a sweet porter by any means. It’s not a “pastry stout,” prioritizing the interplay of grain and oak. The nitro pour conditioning contributes to a smooth delivery, but the beer ultimately finishes dry. It is a tasty, complex brew that remains drinkable and refined.

Templin Family Brewing (TF Brewing) - Lil’ Bruv Nitro Stout: TF is widely revered for their slow-pour lagers, but their Lil’ Bruv Nitro Stout proves that their technical skill translates to the dark and roasty side of their menu as well. This beer isn’t about high-ABV intensity or adjunct overload; it is a clinic in the subtle interplay of roast and texture.

From the first sip, the malt bill shines through with a great cocoa and coffeelike roast. It evokes the cozy familiarity of a morning espresso or a bite of dark chocolate, delivering a robust flavor profile that feels grounded and authentic. Unlike many modern stouts that rely on residual sugars, Lil’ Bruv respects the bitterness of the grain, offering a depth that is rich without being sweet. The drinking experience is elevated by the nitro conditioning, as the nitrogen creates a mesmerizing cascade in the glass resulting in a velvety smooth mouthfeel.

Verdict: This dryness is crucial—it keeps the beer light on its feet, preventing it from becoming heavy or cloying. Lil’ Bruv has great balance: rich in flavor, light in weight and incredibly smooth.

The Cleveland Nitro Brown ale dials in at 4.7 percent alcohol. Lil’ Bruv and IHOB Maple Porter are at 5.0 percent. I recommend scheduling a nitro session soon.

As always, cheers! CW

MIKE RIEDEL

the BACK BURNER

BY ALEX SPRINGER | @captainspringer

Yuletide Holiday Market at The Other Side Village

The Other Side Village (theothersidevillage.com) will be hosting a Yultetide Market from Dec. 11 – Dec. 13. The market is a free event that will feature plenty of local vendors, festive holiday decorations and lots of hot cocoa. For those unfamiliar with The Other Side Village, it’s a locally-supported community that is designed to help people overcome chronic homelessness and create a full-fledged community for its residents. The Yuletide Market is a great way to support this remarkable local program and it promises to be a good time for those looking for a bit of holiday cheer. Come check it out at 1882 W. Indiana Ave.

Halalapeños Opens

I love to see more halal fusion restaurants open up, and Halalapeños (@halalapenos on Instagram) has got me quite interested—and it’s not just because of the clever name. Based on the restaurant’s menu, it’s serving up parathi smash burgers, chicken tikka tacos and burritos, fiesta fries and samosas supremas, which sound excellent. Of course, it wouldn’t be a new taco place if it didn’t have birria on the menu, and this slow-braised beef is available in all of the restaurant’s entrees. With such a creative menu that is totally halal, I’ll be interested in seeing what this place gets up to.

Fogo De Chão Opens

A churrasco restaurant that originated in Brazil and has since opened several international locations, Fogo De Chão (fogodechao.com) recently opened its first Utah location. In keeping with the churrasco tradition, Fogo De Chão is a full-service grill that features tableside meat slicing and a full salad bar. The restaurant brand has been in operation since 1979 and debuted in Texas in 1997. Since then, the brand’s churrasco menu and professional gauchos have helped the restaurant spread throughout the world. The Utah location is open at 6223 S. State Street, Ste. 2, right next to Fashion Place Mall. Fans of the churrasco experience will want to check this out right away.

Quote of the Week: “Vegetables are interesting, but lack a sense of purpose when accompanied by a good cut of meat.” – Fran Lebowitz

Under the Covers

The Proper Way, Mel Soul and the Heartbeat, and Living in Fiction offer their unique takes on established tunes.

BY EMILEE ATKINSON eatkinson@cityweekly.net @emileelovesvinyl

Covering other artists is a great way for new bands to cut their teeth and figure out their style. Later on, it’s an excellent way for established artists to branch out and try styles they don’t play often, or better yet, take a track and completely change up the genre. There are tons of great covers out there, but here are some of the best from local bands/singers.

The Proper Way, “In the Air Tonight”: Phil Collins’ “In the Air Tonight” has firmly cemented itself in pop culture history—showing up in countless movies and mystifying listeners with its iconic drum track for the last 45 years. Ogden trio The Proper Way don’t like to put a definite label on what genre they play, because they play a wide range of tunes; it just kind of depends on their mood. They do, however, feature a lot of acoustic/folk sounds in their music library. Their take on Collins’ 1981 hit follows suit, toning things down into a slow yet passionate cover with beautiful vocals and acoustic instruments. The song builds and eventually blooms with sound, incorporating drums and keys to create an incredible soundscape. Each

member of The Proper Way is a fantastic musician in their own right, but when they come together, it’s like puzzle pieces snapping into place. They understand each other incredibly well and that closeness shines through in their music, especially with this cover.

Mel Soul And The Heartbeat, “…Baby One More Time”: There was a time when pop legend Britney Spears was seen as a mere teenybopper and not the talented artist she is. She’s had a huge impact on pop music and culture, which of course leads to others admiring her work and covering her songs. SLC’s Mel Soul is a marvelous vocalist who has played solo for quite a while, but released her debut with a full band earlier this year. As a group, they released a cover of Spears’ “...Baby One More Time,” arguably one of the best pop songs of all time. This cover features funky bass, a fiddle playing the melody and Soul’s rich vocals, making this reimagining an exciting one. You probably wouldn’t have thought that Britney Spears and a fiddle would go hand-in-hand, but Mel Soul And The Heartbeat prove otherwise. Hearing this song as a bluesy/folk tune changes the vibe, but it’s still an incredible listen. With Soul and other bandmates doing background vocals, the final product is lush and well-produced. If you’re a fan of Britney Spears but also love a good folk tune once in a while, you have to check this one out. Or if you don’t care much for early-’90s pop but are a fan of Mel Soul, you should still definitely check this one out.

Living in Fiction, “Heat Waves”: Rock and pop are supposed to be diametrically opposed—especially when you think of definitive eras in music history like the 1980s and 1990s, when music was very much in

MUSIC

one category or the other. As each year passes, the lines between genres blur and artists put their spins on current music, creating brand new and interesting experiences. Glass Animals’ “Heat Waves” came out in 2020 and has continued to be one of the band’s most popular songs. Local rock band Living in Fiction bring an amazing alt/ hard rock sound that’s punchy and delivers on everything you’d want from a rock band. They have their own excellent style, but they also have a great library of covers, including their cover of “Heat Waves.” It starts with a mellow vibe, vocalist Stetson Whitworth softly singing the opening lyrics, “Road shimmer / Wiggling the vision / Heat heat waves / I’m swimming in a mirror,” before the song comes to life with loud, distorted and crunchy electric guitar. Both versions

have high energy, but the rock version feels like it has deeper emotionality. That may be biased on my part, though, since rock has always been one of my most deeply-loved genres. Living in Fiction’s amazing library includes a balance of original music and covers. You don’t have to find yourself asking, “I wonder if they’d sound good covering a pop artist,” because they’ve already answered the question. Check out “Heat Waves” and many other great covers from Living in Fiction.

This is only a small taste of amazing covers by local musicians; trust and believe that there are plenty more. Are there certain bands you’d love to see do a specific cover? Stay tuned for more awesome covers from our uber talented locals. CW

The Proper Way

TUESDAYS

WEDNESDAYS

BEST BAR IN UTAH!

GREAT FOOD

MUSIC PICK S

Seaslak, The Painted Roses, Sweet Tangerine @ Kilby Court 12/12

The Sleestak are invading Salt Lake! Actually, that was a misread—the Sleestak from Land of the Lost are not coming by; the super rad folk/Americana band Seaslak are playing at Kilby Court. They hit the scene in 2023 with their two-track EP I-15, a nice callback to our good old state. It’s a perfect debut, showcasing the band’s personality and love for the folk/Americana genres. Their most recent single, “The Funeral,” is another lovely track that showcases acoustic guitar but mixes in electric guitar very well as the song progresses. Frontman Mick Rudolph has an incredibly dynamic and emotional voice, one that will pull you in with curiosity and will keep you there with its rich tone and quality. Another band with folk vibes, The Painted Roses, is also on the bill for the evening. The Painted Roses mix their brand of folk with psych and rock vibes, taking you on a very earpleasing journey. Their 2021 debut album Stone Cold Killer is chock full of great tracks, as is their most recent release, Two Lines. Sweet Tangerine is also coming out, bringing their sweet and sincere indie/rock sensibility, offering showgoers an awesome array of different sounds/genres. Come hang out on Friday, Dec. 12 at 6 p.m. Tickets for this allages show at Kilby Court are $12.75 in advance or $15.25 at the door. Go to 24tix.com. (Emilee Atkinson)

Electronichristmas

NSPS Holiday Extravaganza

Val/In/Time

WEEKLY LINEUP

Date My Mate: Powerpoints to Pitch a Friend Gizzmas

Fuct & Merce Lemon

MUSIC PICK S

12 Bands of Christmas @ Urban Lounge 12/12

Graywhale and S&S present 12 Bands of Christmas: You read that right, and if you’re like me, you probably hummed the melody of the holiday carol as you perused the title of this blurb. At this gig, you’re bound to discover adventure, radicalism, originality and maybe even danger. You know, lots of types for lots of types of people—jazz, hip hop, pop rock, punk, indie DIY garage, Latin R&B, etc. The Utah scene really is a mixed bag. “I think it’s really cool there’s so many bands and the music is evolving,” Scott Knutson of Drusky told The Utah Statesman. “When I first entered, it was more like indie synth, Mumford and Sons-type vibe, but it’s evolving to be a lot more like indie bands, rock, garage rock, so I think there’s a lot of music and it’s getting better and better.” Enjoy music for everyone with an impressive, eclectic lineup including Blue Rain Boots, Bad Luck Brigade, Swerved By Blondes, Get Born, Drusky, Queenadilla, Roo Nostalgia, Anna Beck, Detzany, Body Double, Kid Kawali and The Masse Marine. Life should be about face-to-face contact with other people, with and despite all our complications, difficulties, contradictions and eccentricities. We definitely should not all be locked into our digital elective affinities in our bedrooms for endless screen-tapping hours. For 12 local bands, one night only, catch these musicians on Friday, Dec. 12. Doors open at 6 p.m., show at 7 p.m. Tickets for the 21+ show are free with RSVP or $12.34 at the door. RSVP can be found at 24tix.com.

(Mark Dago)

MUSIC PICK S

Markus Schulz @ Soundwell 12/12

The legendary DJ and producer, Markus Schulz is bringing his “unicorn slayer” style to Salt Lake City this weekend. What does this mean? Schulz is known for harder, progressive trance music, as opposed to the slow, melodic style for which trance is known. He moved to the United States from Germany as a child and made it into the electronic music scene in Arizona during the 1990s. He’s been a driving force for decades, and has won the title for “America’s Best DJ” by DJ Times magazine three separate times. Not only does he have a few of the best-known club anthems, like “Hypnotized” and “Destiny,” but he also continues to stay relevant with music decades later. His most recent album, Escape, was created during COVID-19 pandemic times when going on tour was not an option. Instead, Schulz played live and recorded sets of the new music in our own backyard—Moab—setting the perfect backdrop for an escapist vibe. It includes songs like “Tidal Wave,” “In Search of Sunrise” and “Second Day,” with a rush of darker sounds that match his signature style. Check out his long-time weekly radio show, Global DJ Broadcast, to get a sense of his music and immerse yourself in the minimalistic, yet profound world of trance that has made Schulz both nationally and internationally renowned. LNE Presents brings Markus Schulz to Soundwell on Friday, Dec. 12 at 9:15 p.m. General admission costs $27.81 at tixr.com.

(Arica Roberts)

Carpenters Platinum Christmas Show @ Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center 12/13

Whether one loved them or hated them, it’s clear that the Carpenters made their mark on the music of the 1970s and 1980s. The hits they had—“Close To You,” “We’ve Only Just Begun,” “Make It Easy On Yourself” and “A Song For You” among them—brought their writers well-deserved recognition, just as siblings Richard and Karen Carpenter helped establish a model for male-female duos with a similar approach, including The White Stripes. Unfortunately, they didn’t get all the respect they deserved at the time and the tragedies that befell them, culminating in Karen’s untimely death, temporarily tainted their legacy. Happily, then, Carpenters

Platinum makes it their mission to remind us how much memorable music Karen and Richard were responsible for. They not only reproduce the Carpenters’ greatest hits, but add holiday favorites to the mix as well. Credit lead singer LynnDee Mueller with bringing Karen’s heartfelt vocals back to the fore and ensuring that some 40-plus years later, the Carpenters had more to offer than the average pop pastiche. After all, with sales of more than 100 million records, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, three Grammys, two Grammy Hall of Fame Awards and the first People’s Choice Award, they deserve the reverence Carpenters Platinum continues to provide. One hopes that their efforts have only just begun. The Carpenters Platinum Christmas Show takes place at 8 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 13 at the Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center. Tickets cost $25-$39 at saltlakecountyarts.org. (Lee Zimmerman)

The Brobecks @ The Complex 12/13

Formed in 2002 by former members of Salt Lake City rock band 1000 West, the Brobecks were led by singer and bassist Dallon Weekes and debuted on record with 2003’s indie pop release Understanding the Brobecks . The band’s lineup at that point included Weekes plus lead guitarist and singer Michael Gross, drummer Matt Glass and keyboardist Bryan Szymanski. In the next few years to follow, the group would release two more albums: 2005’s Happiest Nuclear Winter and 2006’s Goodnight, and Have a Pleasant Tomorrow. Glass and Szymanski departed, ushering in a period of lineup flux for the Brobecks. After 2007’s Violent Things, the group wound down its activities, formally disbanding in 2013. But in 2024, renewed interest in the Brobecks via social media and streaming led to a remastered reissue of Happiest Nuclear Winter. A documentary chronicling the band’s history, Not Dead Yet, is set to premiere this month, and in mid-2025, the Brobecks announced a reunion featuring the classic lineup that created the band’s first two albums. The Brobecks play a hometown show at The Complex on Saturday, Dec. 13 at 8 p.m. Tickets for this all-ages show are $103.80 and available from thecomplexslc.com. (Bill Kopp)

free will ASTROLOGY

BY ROB BREZSNY

ARIES (March 21-April 19)

Home is a building you live in. It’s also a metaphor for the inner world you carry within you. Is it expansive and luminous, filled with windows that look out onto vast vistas? Or is it cramped, dark and in disrepair, a space where it’s hard to feel comfortable? Does it have a floor plan you love and made yourself? Or was it designed according to other people’s expectations? It may be neither of those extremes, of course. My hope is that this horoscope will prod you to renovate aspects of your soul’s architecture. The coming months will be an excellent time for this sacred work.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20)

During the construction of the Brooklyn Bridge in 1872, workers made an uncanny discovery: They could detect approaching storms by observing vibrations in the bridge’s cables. The massive metal structure was an inadvertent meteorological instrument. I’m predicting that your intuition will operate with comparable sensitivity in the coming months, Taurus. You will have a striking capacity to notice subtle signals in your environment. What others regard as background noise will reveal rich clues to you. Hot tip: Be extra alert for nuanced professional opportunities and social realignments. Like the bridge workers, you will be attuned to early signs of changing conditions.

GEMINI

(May 21-June 20)

Sloths are so energy-efficient they can survive on 160 calories per day: the equivalent of an apple. They’ve mastered the art of thriving on minimal intake by moving deliberately and digesting thoroughly. Life is inviting you to learn from sloths, Gemini. The coming weeks will be a good time to take an inventory of your energy strategies. Are you burning fuel frantically, or are you extracting maximum nourishment from what you already possess? However you answer that question, I urge you to experiment with being more efficient—but without depriving yourself. Try measuring your productivity not by speed and flash but by the diligence of your extraction. Dig deep and be thorough. Your nervous system and bank account will thank you.

CANCER (June 21-July 22)

The Danish concept of arbejdsglæde refers to the happiness and satisfaction derived from work. It’s the joy found in labor itself, not just in its financial rewards and prestige. It’s about exulting in the self-transformations you generate as you do your job. Now is an excellent time to claim this joy more than ever, Cancerian. Meditate with relish on all the character-building and soul-growth opportunities your work offers you and will continue to provide.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22)

In the deep Pacific Ocean, fields of giant tube worms thrive in darkness around hydrothermal vents, converting toxic chemicals into life-sustaining energy. These resilient creatures challenge our assumptions about which environments can support growth. I suspect your innovative approach to gathering resources in the coming months will display their adaptability. Situations that others find inhospitable or unmanageable will be intriguing opportunities for you. For best results, ruminate on how limitations could actually protect and nurture development. You may discover that conventional sustenance isn’t your only option.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

For a long time, scientists didn’t understand why humans have an organ called the appendix. Most thought it was useless. But it turns out that the appendix is more active than anyone knew. Among other functions, it’s a safe haven for beneficial gut bacteria. If a health crisis disrupts our microbiome, this unsung hero repopulates our intestines with the helpful microbes we need. What was once considered irrelevant is actually a backup drive. With that in mind as a metaphor, here’s my question, Virgo: How many other parts of your world may be playing long games and performing unnoticed services that you haven’t understood yet? Investigate that possibility!

LIBRA

(Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

In the coming months, you’ll be asked to wield your Libran specialties more than ever. Your allies and inner circle will need you to provide wise counsel and lucid analysis. For everyone’s sake, I hope you balance compassion with clarity and generosity with discernment. Certain collaborations will need corrective measures but shouldn’t be abandoned. Your gift will lie in finding equilibrium that honors everyone’s dignity. When in doubt, ask: “What would restore harmony rather than merely appear polite?” True diplomacy is soulful, not superficial. Bonus: The equilibrium you achieve could resonate far beyond your immediate circle.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

The Hubble Space Telescope is a school bus-sized space observatory orbiting 320 miles above the Earth. There, it observes the universe free from atmospheric distortion. Its instruments and detectors need to be recalibrated continuously. Daily monitors, weekly checks and yearly updates keep the telescope’s tech sharp as it ages. I believe it’s a good time for you Scorpios to do your own recalibrations. Subtle misalignments between your intentions and actions can now be corrected. Your basic vision and plans are sound; the adjustments required are minor. For best results, have maximum fun as you fine-tune your fundamentals.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

Leonardo da Vinci painted his iconic Mona Lisa on a thin panel of poplar wood, which naturally expands and contracts with changes in humidity. Over the centuries, this movement has caused a crack and measurable warping. One side of the classic opus is bending a bit more than the other. Let’s use this as a metaphor for you, Sagittarius. I suspect that a fine quality you are known for and proud of is changing shape. This should be liberating, not worrisome. If even the Mona Lisa can’t remain static, why should you? I say: Let your masterwork age. Just manage the process with grace and generosity. The central beauty may be changing, but it’s still beautiful.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

“Apoptosis” is a word that refers to programmed cell death. It is a process by which your aging, damaged or obsolete cells deliberately destroy themselves for the benefit of your organism as a whole. This “cellular suicide” is carefully regulated and crucial for development, maintenance and protection against diseases. About 50-70 billion cells die within you every day, sacrificing themselves so you can live better. Let’s use this healthy process as a psychospiritual metaphor. What aspects of your behavior and belief system need to die off right now so as to promote your total well-being?

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

Which parts of your foundations are built to strengthen with age? Which are showing cracks? The coming months will be an excellent time to reinforce basic structures so they will serve you well into the future. Don’t just patch problems. Rebuild and renovate using the very best ingredients. Your enduring legacy will depend on this work, so choose materials that strengthen as they mature rather than crumble. Nothing’s permanent in life, but some things are sturdier and more lasting than others.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20)

Along the Danube River in Europe, migrating storks return each spring to rebuild massive nests atop church steeples, roofs and trees. New generations often reuse previous bases, adding additional twigs, grass, roots and even human-made stuff like cloth and plastics. Some of these structures have lasted for centuries and weigh half a ton. Let’s make this a prime metaphor for you in the coming months, Pisces. I see your role as an innovator who improves and enhances good traditions. You will bring your personal genius to established beauty and value. You will blend your futuristic vision with ancestral steadiness, bridging tomorrow with yesterday.

of Utah Health and the Moran Eye Center will be destroying medical records created prior to 01/01/2004 for all patients. UUH and Moran will also be destroying medical records created prior to 01/01/2016 for deceased patients who passed away prior to 01/01/2016 and who were over the age of 18 at the time of death. If you would like to request a copy of your records prior to destruction, or if you have a legal right to access a deceased relatives medical information and would like a copy of their records, you must contact the facility at 801-5812704 before 01/01/2026. After that date, records will no longer be available.

are seeking for a driver for my old family member on a part-time basis (Mondays & Fridays only) weekly pay $400 must Have a valid state-issued driver’s license Must be professional, safe and patient email us: michaeljohn121m@gmail.com

urban LIVING

Urban Utah Homes & Estates, urbanutah.com

Donation Time!

It’s that time of the year, when many of us are feeling the charity of the holiday season, and there are many ways to help people in our communities across the state during December.

We all have our favorite charities to support but if you’re looking for ideas, here are a few thoughts.

One is Habitat for Humanity (habitat. org), which builds and repairs homes and is always needing donations of land, furniture, appliances and money.

Another is the INN Between (tibhospice.org), a hospice for the unsheltered where they have private rooms and need a myriad of things. Plus, you can assign your Smiths grocery points to give them a donation year-round.

An easy way to donate is through the “Giving Machines” that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints came up with nine years ago. These are red vending machines that they install during the holidays in 126 locations in 21 countries. All of the proceeds go to local charities around the world.

You buy donations for people in need (not for yourself) and can choose essentials like meals, clean water, hygiene kits, clothing, shelter, school supplies, medical care (vaccines, glasses, dentures), job training and even livestock (chickens, goats, beehives). The Light the World campaign is extremely successful and you can find a Giving Machine at City Creek Mall or go online at lighttheworld.org.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

ACROSS

1. Mag with quizzes

6. Honey structure

10. Obsolete tape players

14. Cymbals with a foot pedal

15. Largest oceanic dolphin

16. “Hi” on the high seas

17. Certain Scottish girl’s lessons with designer Bill?

20. Worm work?

21. Feeling awful

22. Hits the mall

23. Long shocker

24. Gilbert & Sullivan’s “Princess ___”

25. Equalize

26. Removes moisture from a Great Lake’s fast-food side?

31. “Hamilton” creator ___-Manuel Miranda

32. Mooch in the “Mutts” comic, e.g.

33. Org. that looks over Heat and Thunder

34. Cereal holders

37. Ruin

38. Eleanor in a Beatles song

40. Actress de Armas

41. Gained

42. Granola bit

43. Reached the temperature of some Greek vowels?

50. The most recent Bond

51. “___ be a pleasure!”

52. Former “All Things Considered” co-host Shapiro

53. Catches, as fly balls

54. Raw material

55. Bowie rock genre

56. Nebulous area between a “Simpsons” bully and the late MMA fighter Slice?

59. Stressed type (abbr.)

60. Jacob’s twin brother, in the Bible

61. Boston NHLer

Of course, you can always give to the Utah Food Bank and Community Action Services Food Bank in Utah County, or you can hold a holiday food drive in your office. Make it a competition— even by vying for creativity points by arranging canned food in artistic ways to encourage donations.

Userve.utah.gov offers donation lists by county and KSL Radio runs a “Quarters for Christmas” campaign every year to solicit warm clothes for kids.

Another way to involve your office is to provide a meal to the families living at the Ronald McDonald House. Their website has a sign-up form with details and they have a commercial kitchen to aid in prep. There are also several gift drives via United Way throughout Utah for donated toys and clothes for children and teens (uw.org). There’s also nativeamericanfathers.org, which collects toys for kids on Utah reservations during the holidays.

Know that toy drives are for new toys, but gently-used clothing is always needed—for kids and adults—through many local charities. It’s a perfect time of year to conduct your own version of “Swedish Death Cleaning,” where you purge stuff you don’t need anymore. This is a great decluttering practice similar to that of Japan’s Marie Kondo, an organizing consultant famous for the term, “Does this item bring you joy?” (If it doesn’t, donate it!)

It is a traditional time to be charitable, but also a great time to purge items you no longer need. Call theothersidethriftboutique.com and they will come pick up your gently-used items and sell them in their thrift stores. ■

8. Hosts

9. Rock band member

10. “Love! ___! Compassion!” (Terrence McNally play-turned-film)

11. Lip issue

12. “Friends” friend

13. Part of PBS, for short

18. 46th U.S. President

19. One who gets to cooking

24. Egyptian goddess of fertility

25. Shred

27. Letter-shaped pipe

28. Words of resignation

29. Recede

30. For example

34. Do some grocery work

35. Sean ___ Lennon

36. Sentinel

62. It may be dominant

63. “Atlas Shrugged” author

64. Carbonated beverages

DOWN

1. Went after

2. More obsequious

3. “Okay to proceed?”

4. Zorro accessory

5. Post-fourth qtr. periods

6. Neck piece

7. Type of exam

37. “Switched-On Bach” synthesizer

38. Night visit to the fridge

39. Lance of the O.J. Trial

41. Feline feeler

42. ___ Bi-Flex (immune support supplement brand)

44. Fine for farming

45. Tapioca alternative

46. 1997 basketball film that brought on sequels

Last week’s answers

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

47. Collection of Jewish laws

48. “Lawrence of ___” (1962 epic)

49. Carly and Paul, for two 53. Locale

54. Qatar neighbor

55. Copter ancestor

56. Dublin dance

57. “This ___ test” 58. Scale amts.

NEWS of the WEIRD

Goals

Gavin Rivers Weisenburg, 21, of Allen, Texas, and Tanner Christopher Thomas, 20, of Argyle, Texas, were indicted on Nov. 20 in U.S. District Court for a bizarre plot to carry out a coup on Gonave Island, near Haiti. The New York Times reported that the men hatched their plan in 2024; both were learning Haitian Creole, and Weisenburg joined the North Texas Fire Academy to learn “command-and-control protocols.” He flunked out in February 2025. Thomas joined the U.S. Air Force and was stationed in Maryland, and both men planned to recruit homeless people from around Washington, D.C., to assist in the coup. After sailing to and gaining control of the island, Weisenburg and Thomas planned to kill all the men and make the women and children sex slaves. The would-be conquerors could face up to life in federal prison.

Perspective (or Lack Thereof)

On Nov. 7 at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, Corey Johnson, 35, of Alexandria, Louisiana, tried to exit the parking lot, but he wasn’t able to pay the fee. People magazine reported that Johnson at first refused to move his Jeep out of the exit lane but later agreed to pull aside while he worked out payment. Around 10 p.m., while Johnson was still stuck in the parking lot, the airport’s Aviation Communications center received a threatening phone call, suggesting a bomb would be detonated if the operator did not “page Hassan.”

The center received another call around 10:35, saying he wanted “Hassan” “to bring the bomb to level three.” Deputies pinged the phone making the calls and traced it back to Johnson; by 11 p.m., he was under arrest. On Nov. 20, Johnson was indicted for willfully conveying a bomb threat. He could face up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine—way more than the parking fee.

Raccoons Gone Wild

■ An ABC liquor store in Ashland, Virginia, had a breakin early on Nov. 29, but it wasn’t a robber. The New York Times reported that a raccoon fell through the ceiling of the store, then set about trying a wide variety of alcohol: rum, moonshine, peanut butter whiskey, vodka and, of course, eggnog. “It broke several bottles and consumed the spirits,” said Carol Mawyer, PR manager for Virginia ABC. When police and animal control responded, the blotto beast was passed out face-down on the floor of the bathroom. The raccoon woke up after about 1 1/2 hours and showed no signs of injury. It was released back into the wild.

■ No good raccoon deed goes unpunished, as a man in Cherokee County, Georgia, learned during Thanksgiving week. CBS News reported that the unnamed man saw the injured animal in the road and stopped to help it, wrapping it in his coat and holding it against his chest as he drove to the Chattahoochee Nature Center more than an hour away. At some point, the raccoon became loose and bit the man on his face and hands. At the center, employees urged him to go to the hospital; meanwhile, the raccoon was euthanized and tested for rabies. Result: Positive. “Please take a minute and assess the situation before attempting to capture wildlife without direction,” the center posted.

Suspicions Confirmed

Police in Auckland, New Zealand, are holding a man in custody, presumably awaiting a certain biological development, after he was accused of swallowing a $19,000 Faberge egg pendant on Nov. 28, the BBC reported. Officers went to Partridge Jewellers and arrested the 32-year-old man, who has undergone a medical assessment. Talk about crap duty: “An officer is assigned to constantly monitor the man,” Inspector Grae Anderson said. “At this stage, the pendant has not been recovered.” The egg is set with white diamonds and blue sapphires and has an 18-karat-gold miniature octopus inside.

Government in Action

Rankin, Pennsylvania, got its first snowfall this week, but the city was less than prepared for the storm, KDKA-TV reported. Alas, Rankin has only one public works employee—and that one employee isn’t licensed to operate a snowplow. Still, borough resident Marcus Clay cut the local government some slack: “They didn’t do too bad. It was better than it was last year.” Borough council member Walter Sewell hopefully noted, “We’re working through it.” The city subcontracted with some local businesses, and in the spirit of the season, even residents chipped in, shoveling and salting their own blocks. It takes a village.

Workers’ Comp?

■ The perils of working ... outside. On Dec. 2, as Jessica Tyson, 32, filmed a segment for a current affairs show in Auckland, New Zealand, a low-flying bird struck her in the face, United Press International reported. Tyson shared the clip to social media, commenting, “POV Just trying to do your job when nature has other plans. Everything is fine, just got a little scar above my eye.” She’s looking forward to indoor assignments from now on.

■ Utility lineman Werner J. Neubauer responded to a prickly situation in Cochise County, Arizona, United Press International reported on Dec. 1. A bear was stuck at the top of a utility pole and was in danger of being electrocuted, Neubauer said. He shut off electricity to the pole and used a bucket truck to get to the bear’s level, where he poked at it with a fiberglass stick until it slid back down the pole.

Bright Idea

Magician and molecular biologist Zi Teng Wang of St. Louis, Missouri, came up with a fun idea a few years ago: He implanted an RFID chip in his hand and used it to perform magic tricks, Yahoo! News reported on Nov. 28. But the tricks faded and other uses fizzled out, and Wang went on with his life. “When I went to rewrite the chip, I was horrified to realize I forgot the password that I had locked it with,” he said. “I’m still locked out of my own body’s tech, and that’s inconvenient but hilarious.” Ah, techie humor.

Nope

Fox News reported that a sky-dining—that’s right, DINING, not DIVING—attraction in Kerala, India, froze at its full height with two adults, two children and a staff member on deck on Nov 28. The dining experience involves a crane lifting a platform 120 feet in the air, allowing diners to enjoy a panoramic view. However, the hydraulic system powering the lift failed, leaving the riders with no way to get down. Instead, firefighters used ropes to climb to the platform, then put each person in a harness and lowered them to the ground. The whole operation took about four hours. No injuries were reported.

Wait, What?

Quick, get all of your Christmas orders in before Dec. 11 for Mug Root Beer’s limited-edition cologne, “Daddy’s Home.” Fox 5 Atlanta reported on Dec. 3 that the soda company is, for the first time, detouring into personal care with the unique fragrance, which reportedly includes aromas of cedar, sandalwood, vanilla and caramel. “It’s the kind of scent that whispers ‘come to papa’ to dogs and dawgs alike,” the company said. The package includes a 1.7-ounce cologne and a 10-pack of MUG Root Beer mini cans for the low, low price of $15.

“Daddy’s Home by Mug Root Beer is for our die-hard MUG fans who believe root beer rules every sense, not just taste,” a statement read.

iOS Eng (SLC, UT):

Dvlp iOS apps w/ GPU for auto & energy mngmt AI tools. Use 3D graphics, math, & geometry for AR. Train neural ntwrks using ML. Create Metal GPU pipelines.

Dvlp multithreaded GCD apps.

Req: BSCS or BSME & 2 yrs exp, w/Swift, GCD, ARKit, Mach Learn, Vision, Metal API, Shader, SwiftUI, UIKit, CoreBluetooth, Objective-C/ C++, Git & Xcode. Resumes to hannah@passivelogic.com