Fall activities for every type of Salt Laker

Winter Shelter Plan

The Utah Homelessness Council has officially finalized Salt Lake County’s winter overflow plans for unsheltered people. The strategy opens up 510 beds at multiple locations across the county, including a new shelter in West Valley, expanded capacity at the three existing homeless resource centers, and Salt Lake City’s planned sanctioned camping program at 300 S. and 600 W. (also known as the temporary shelter community). Winter overflow operations are scheduled to begin Oct. 16 and will last through spring. [Utah Office of Homeless Services]

• Related: Learn more about Salt Lake City’s temporary shelter community. [City Cast Salt Lake 🎧]

America’s ‘Dark Path’

The direction the U.S. is headed “scares the hell out of” Gov. Spencer Cox. That’s what he told local reporters at a recent news conference, saying he’s worried political polarization is putting democracy at risk. Cox said that’s evident in threats to elected officials, and he puts some of the blame on social media and cable news for stoking division. Research shows a spike in political violence since 2016, mostly by people with far-right beliefs. [KUER]

Alt National Parks

The snow in the Wasatch last week reminds us that fall is a short season. So, we are bringing you a three-part guide to making the most of it on your precious weekends. Today, in part one, City Cast Salt Lake host Ali Vallarta is giving lead producer Emily Means her tips for getting away to Utah’s "Mighty Five" national parks, without actually stepping foot inside them. Because we shouldn’t be battling crowds to get a look at red rocks, we’re locals! [City Cast Salt Lake 🎧]

Food Trucks & Book Exchange  📚 Monday | 5-8 p.m.

Head to Legacy Park for food trucks and a book exchange (bring some books, take some books). [Free entry, North Salt Lake]

Queer Baile  💃 Monday | 7-11 p.m.

Plumas Colectiva is hosting a dance night for QTBIPOC. They’ll be playing bachata, salsa, and cumbia. Masks required. [Free, Fairpark]

Tatala  🌺 Wednesday | 6-8 p.m.

Tatala is a support group for queer Pasifika. Bring a childhood photo of yourself for this week’s discussion. Dinner will be provided. [Free, University]

A Guide To Fall in the Shadow of Utah’s National Parks

Fall is a great time of year to head to Southern Utah and visit our "Mighty Five" national parks. But did you know you can experience the beauty and wonder of the parks without ever stepping foot inside one? Host Ali Vallarta joins lead producer Emily Means to share her recommendations for taking in this season’s glory in the shadow of the national parks, without the fees, crowds, and chaos.