Three things we’ll be talking about this week

1. More than 100 million Americans shop on the day after Thanksgiving, and many of them will line up Friday for predawn specials. But bargain-hunting is not just a one-day craze. The National Retail Federation’s annual survey indicates Americans plan to spend less on holiday shopping this year than in 2008, and they’re not willing to pay anywhere near full price.

2. If the wishbone breaks just right, Schweitzer Mountain Resort and Silver Mountain ski areas will get the snow they need to open this week. Skiers have already hit the moguls at Lookout Pass and 49 Degrees North. Mt. Spokane’s Web site says the snow park plans on a Dec. 5 opening.

3. Between them, the Huskies and Cougars have just four wins this football season. But one team’s record will improve Saturday, when the annual cross-state rivalry plays out in Seattle. The Apple Cup is sponsored by Boeing, so expect to hear plenty of jokes about next year’s game being held in South Carolina.