I was not a fan of the State of Utah when I went to college in Logan, nor with most of the very conservative stances taken by the predominant religion and political leaders.  It is now time for me to admit, Utah has changed a lot. Well maybe, I can only accurately say Salt Lake City has moved left of far right.  Mitt Romney is one of the few voices of reason in the U S Senate in the Republican Party.  The State has done a wonderful job of attracting and growing Technology companies, Silicon Slopes, near Provo is the home to a gaggle of tech start ups. The State, private investors, and the life style have made the rapid growth possible. 

The Economic Development Corporation of Utah, a not for profit organization, has been successful at meeting its goal of a “prosperous and resilient ecosystem for generations of aspiring Utahns.” The corporation values reflect a commitment to a safe and respectful workplace where diversity, inclusion, and equality are highly valued… The Utah economy is doing very well and I can have a cocktail without joining a private club when I visit.

The sign highlights Utah Pride Week, the reminders of the celebration were plentiful—good for Utah.

Nothing to watch on TV, I landed on the Homeward Bound Tribute to Paul Simon. It was great listening to one of the most prolific and memorable singer-song writer-poets of my life time. Oprah handles the introductions and is joined by an all star cast of performers singing the diverse Simon songs. I have attached a video of Call me Al, a Paul Simon hit from a few years back. It is silly and up-lifting. Simon tells the story of he and his then wife attending a fancy evening event where the Host introduced Paul and Peggy as Al and Betty. As you enjoy the song, and the complex lyrics, you will have some insight into the humor. Chevy Chase is a musician and has perfect pitch. I believe the video has him lip synching and not really playing the trumpet.  Check out the concert when you have an hour to invest.

Hallelujah, the Debt Limit has been set aside through January of 2025. It is shocking how many of our elected officials choose to play political with such an important issue. Senator Crapo and Senator Risch voted no on the bill to assure our nation does not default on its obligations—unconscionable in my view. Congressman Simpson and Fulcher voted no in the House. I would  like to hear the explanation/blame for why Idahoan’s  do not get their Social Security Checks, those serving in the military do not get paid, the owners of our Treasury bills and notes cannot liquidate their investments for retirement—the potential  collateral damage list is so long I will stop there. Why? I imagine they would blame it on Biden. I anxiously await their plan to balance the budget.


We have politicians running against Woke. Woke is the past of wake, but that is not the definition, woke is an adjective derived from African-American English meaning “alert to racial prejudice and discrimination.”  Changing the facts of the past to make us feel better is nonsensical. I am proud to say i think I am Woke.

If you feel our country “Slip Sliding Away” consider joining the Idaho Leaders United fight against extremism.  Enjoy the week end. Mike