The Slice: Redheads had more fun, thanks to ’50s-era discount

When Frank Burger was growing up on the North Side long ago, he had red hair.

So did the manager of one downtown Spokane movie theater. And, according to Burger, that theater manager had a policy of granting free admission to redheaded kids on Saturdays.

That was about 60 years ago. But Burger still smiles about it. “It was great,” he said when we crossed paths the other day.

I agree. And it got me wondering. What affinity discounts or recognition would Slice readers or others be entitled to today?

Those not wearing ballcaps at Pig Out in the Park would be served a free lunch.

Air Force retirees could knock $500 off the price of a used car when selling to another USAF retiree.

People reading a newspaper in a restaurant would be given a free pickle or cookie.

Those wearing orthodontic braces could say “No, after you.”

People wearing Bloomsday shirts would be entitled to a kiss and/or a hug from those similarly attired.

Guys with shaved heads at Hoopfest could play ridiculously soft defense against one another during games.

Spokane area women whose first names end in “i” could have a secret handshake.

Eastern Washington University graduates running a business could offer a special “Eagle discount” to fellow alums.

And so on. Send me your idea and you might just win a coveted reporter’s notebook.

Assessing her outlook: “So, if my rain gauge is half full, does that make me an optimist?” wrote Debbie Oscarson.

Slice reader Jeff Nadeau wonders: Have the email-address naming conventions at local businesses caused embarrassment for any employees? You know, because of the double-entendre results when certain names, initials or office acronyms are mashed up.

Slice answer: Sue Hicks said the most poorly behaved local audiences can be found at tribal powwows at Riverfront Park. “They act like it’s a rock concert and they are yelling and talking, etc., and paying very little attention to what is going on. You can’t even hear the person speaking. I think it is shameful.”

Today’s Slice question: What Inland Northwest cat gets the most rest?