Where's the best vegan food in Salt Lake?

Polygraph Tests

A bill is moving forward in the Legislature that would prohibit the use of polygraph tests on survivors of sexual assault by prosecutors and law enforcement officials. Advocacy groups have pointed at the unreliable nature of polygraph tests, aka lie detector tests, noting that traumatic responses can often be misinterpreted. [Utah New Dispatch]

Film Studio in St. George

Actor Kevin Costner is set to build a $40 million film studio in St. George. It will span over 150,000 square feet and will include sound studios, production warehouses, and office space. They aim to help boost the local film industry and provide opportunities to Utah film students. [Salt Lake Tribune]

Potty Training Bill

Utah lawmakers are considering a bill that would mandate kindergarten students be potty trained before starting school. Teachers have expressed concern over a growing number of students who aren’t potty trained. Exemptions would be made for children with disabilities, special needs, or doctor-approved accommodations. But critics of the bill worry about kids who can’t get accommodations and how they could fall behind in their education. [KUER]

Salt Lake City Marathon

If you’re interested in running the Salt Lake City Marathon (or let’s be real, the 5K), you might be wondering where to run. City Cast Salt Lake podcast host Ali Vallarta is talking with two seasoned runners about the best routes and tips for getting started. [City Cast Salt Lake 🎧]

Today, Hey Salt Lake readers share some tips on the best restaurants to take visitors, entertaining your kids for the holiday break, and some free resources.

🆓 On Free Resources

“If you are a University of Utah student you also get free therapy! All from licensed therapists. Also Wasatch Adaptive Sports isn’t ‘free’ but it’s like 90% scholarship based. So if you or someone you know has a disability and a desire to get outside, you can apply and pretty much always get a free lesson with them.” — Madeline H.

🌱 On Kid Activities For Holiday Breaks

“Can’t help but put in a good word for Red Butte Garden as a great destination for families with kids on school holidays! President’s Day is the perfect opportunity for nature-loving families to enjoy the unique beauty of the winter garden, get some fun family photos against a gorgeous backdrop, build a snowman on our Four Seasons Garden lawn, or take advantage of the best season for bird watching. Families can even make it a double feature by popping into the Natural History Museum next door for lunch and their latest exhibit.” — Mindy W.

🍦 On Where To Take Out-of-Towners

“Here are some of the places I love bringing out-of-state visitors:

Caffé Molise is a great place to take your parents and/or extended family. It’s a nice restaurant with a big-but-not-overwhelming menu (and a gorgeous patio) where everyone can find something to eat, be comfortable, and enjoy themselves.

If you’re hungry at weird hours, I believe Red Iguana is worth the hype. Would I wait an hour for it? No, but I wouldn’t wait an hour for anything, so just save Red Iguana for when you and your guests are hungry at 3 p.m. after a long hike. The molé sampler will never taste better.

I also don’t think a visit to Salt Lake City is complete without stopping at Normal Ice Cream. Everyone I’ve ever taken there has been impressed!” — Hannah T.

How To Start Running in Salt Lake

So, you’re thinking about signing up for the Salt Lake City Marathon. Or maybe just the half marathon. OK, maybe the 5K is all you’ve got in you. No problem! Seasoned runners Shireen Ghorbani and Bryant Heath join host and newbie runner Ali Vallarta to share great local routes, plus some tips and tricks for hitting the pavement.