Farewell, Good Senator

I woke up today, knowing it was going to be a little bit rough. It is never easy to say goodbye to a friend or loved one, but it is especially difficult to bid farewell to one whose life is cut short by illness or tragedy -- and even harder to say goodbye to someone who had so much life left to live and so much service left to give. As I was getting ready to go to Senator Eddie Mayne's funeral, all I could think about was how he would leave a terrible void, not only in the Utah Senate, but also in Utah.

But now that the funeral services have come and gone, I am at peace.

I didn't know Senator Mayne as well a some. I didn't have the pleasure of working with him in the Utah Senate, or working with the things that were important to him. But I did watch him from afar, and I admired him for his hard work and dedication to the things he believed in. Whether or not you agree with his politics, it cannot be denied that what Ed cared about the most was to see the average person do better. He wanted to elevate all of Utah's citizens, and he worked hard to try to make the American dream become a reality for all of Utah's families. That is why I admired Ed the most. I remember on more than one ocassion hear him say that he would support a bill because it would "help Utah families." I think that had to be the litmus test that he used when judging legislation... if it lifted Utah families somehow, then it would be worth supporting.

Ed was a big guy - both in stature and in personality. I must admit that the first time I met him when I was running for the Utah Senate last year, I was a little bit intimidated by him. And so, when I heard last spring that he was diagnosed with lung cancer, I was certain he would inimidate the nasty thing right into remission. Eddie Mayne was larger than life. In the last year I got to know him a little bit better, and was impressed that he always knew my name, always encouraged me to *please* run for public office again, and even invited me to sit with the Senators on the senate floor during session, telling me that I belonged there. As I came to know him better, intimidation was replaced with admiration and a whole lot of respect.

Me and Senator Eddie Mayne, June 2007

During today' services, we had the pleasure to hear from many of Ed's friends, and from his family. The beginning remarks were delivered by Governor Jon Huntsman, who talked about Ed's dedication to equality for all Utah families, Ed's commitment to public education, and Ed's love for all of Utah's citizens. He reminded us that Ed wanted to see every family in the state be more successful, and that "He will be remembered for bringing hope and healing to every corner of this state."

We heard from Salt Lake County Councilman Randy Horiuchi, from Ed's dear friend Blaze Wharton, from Ed's Bishop and Karen's Pastor. But the most touching remarks came from Ed's children, who saw a more private side of their father, and they shared wonderful stories about their dad and his quirks and his strengths and his love for them.

The music was superb. There was not a dry eye in the room during Kevin Flynn's touching sax rendition of "Somewhere Over The Rainbow." The auditorium at the Cultural Celebration Center was filled to capacity, with standing room only. And those in attendance, including honored guests such as Governor Huntsman, Senate President John Valentine, Senator Orrin Hatch, First lady Norma Matheson and her sons, Congressman Jim and Scott and wife Robin... over 1000 of us were there to celebrate the life of a man who gave so much to all who came in contact with him.

At the close of his remarks about his father, Paul Mayne told us that every prayer delivered by Eddie included the words "Bless the unemployed that they find work. Bless the homeless that they find shelter. And bless the children."

I think those words sum up Ed Mayne better than anything I could ever say about him. And as his daughter, Jamie, so eloquently reminded us today, it is not enough to just talk about Ed's fabulous legacy of service. The best way we can honor our dear friend is to continue fighting for the things he believed in... helping the unemployed find work.. helping the homeless to find shelter.... Fair wages, better pay for public servants, an excellent education for all of Utah' children.

Ed, I wish I could have had the opportunity to know you better. I especially wish I could have served in the senate with you. To make up for that, I'm going to work a little harder, be a little bit less selfish, and continue to fight for the things that were important to you. I owe it to you. We all do.

Farewell, good Senator. Rest in peace.

Eddie Paul Mayne

Eddie Paul Mayne A Life Well Lived 1945 ~ 2007 Our devoted husband, father, son, brother, grandfather and friend,Eddie Paul Mayne, 62, passed away peacefully at home on Nov. 25, 2007, surrounded by his loving family. Ed was born on September 16, 1945, in Bingham Canyon, Utah, son of Rolland (Red) and Ruth Oliver Mayne. He married Karen Marie Hibler on September 21, and are the parents of two children. They shared their loving companionship for 39 years. Ed attended Granger High School, Snow College and the Univerisity of Utah. He received an honorary doctorate degree from Salt Lake Community College. Ed was noted in a recent interview as one of the most influential Democrats in the State of Utah. He served as a State Senator since 1994, where he remained dedicated to the people in his district and guaranteed that their concerns and needs were heard and acted upon. He also proudly served as Utah State AFL-CIO President since 1977 and fulfilled his commitment to his fellow brothers and sisters with loyalty and honor. During Ed's career, he was a consumer advocate to the Federal Reserve Bank Of San Francisco representing Utah and nine other western states. Other committees include the United Way Executive Committee, Workers Compensation Legislative Advisory Board, Blue Cross Blue Shield Executive Board, University of Utah Rocky Mountain Center for Occupational and Environmental Health, and numerous other influential committees. Ed was asked by then-SLC Olympic Organizer Mitt Romney, to carry the Winter Olympic Torch through Kearns. Ed was one of just three known public elected officials in the nation to have carried the Olympic Torch in 2002. In 1993, "Ed Mayne Street" was dedicated as a tribute for his community service to Salt Lake County and his help in developing Oquirrh Hill Park across from Kearns High School. In recognition for his support to the schools within his district, Granite School Board is dedicating the Hunter High Football stadium in his name. Ed is survived by his devoted wife, Karen; children, Paul (Jana) Mayne, Jamie (Trever) Jennings; parents, Red and Ruth Mayne; sisters, Connie (Craig) Webb, Shauna (Mike) Petersen, Terry Glover, and brother-in-law Phil (Barbara) Hibler. He is also survived by three grand-children, Jackson, Maddy, Eli, and several nieces and nephews. Ed will be missed by all those that knew and loved him. Funeral services will be held Fri. November 30, 2007 at 11 a.m. at the West Valley City Cultural Celebration Center (3100 South 1355 West). Viewings will be held Wednesday, November 28, 2007, from 6-8 p.m. at the Utah Labor Center (2261 South Redwood Road), and Thursday, November 29, 2007, in the Senate Chamber at the State Capitol from 6-8 p.m. Funeral directors, Valley View Funeral Home. The family would like to thank the many dedicated doctors and nurses who cared for Ed over the past several months, and a special thank you to Tony and Sandy Montano. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests making a donation to the United Way of Salt Lake City, the Caring Foundation for Children, the Utah Cancer Specialists, the Golden Retriever Rescue Center, or a charity of your choice in Ed's name. A Tribute to Ed's life will be celebrated on Tuesday Dec. 4. For more information, please visit the following website: www.edmayne.com

KVNU's For The People: State Senator Ed Mayne Remembered

Tom Grover and Utah's Democratic Party Officers, Wayne Holland and Rob Miller, discuss the recent passing of State Senator Ed Mayne, Mitt's Muslim Misstep, and Taser Torture on KVNU's For The People.

Senator Ed Mayne with Emily Bingham Hollingshead

Coming this weekend: "Where did you eat your Thanksgiving Tom Turkey, BoB!

Who's most like Ronald Reagan?

Politics is always entertaining political theatre. One drama we can always count on in Republican circles when a race tightens is a passionate argument over who is more like Ronald Reagan. As Mike Huckabee gains on Mitt Romney in Iowa, it was inevitable that an “I’m like Reagan, you’re not!” shouting match would ensue.

The problem with these arguments is they always cite the Reagan myth rather than the Reagan record. In the latest exchange, Governor Romney (unsurprisingly) came up with biggest whoppers that were long on rhetoric but short on fact.

For example……

Romney quote: "And I'll tell you, Ronald Reagan would have never raised taxes like Mike Huckabee did.”

Fact: President Reagan raised taxes eleven times during his presidency, for a total of $137 billion in tax increases. President Reagan, to his credit, was not nearly the ideologue his disciples are. He had the wisdom and the humility to change course when the facts indicated it was required – as he did when it became clear that his 1981 tax cuts were going to bankrupt the country.

Romney quote: "Ronald Reagan would have never said let's give tuition breaks to illegals like Mike Huckabee did.”

Fact: Ronald Reagan was the author of the mid-eighties illegal immigrant amnesty that added that word (amnesty) to the short lexicon that Republicans draw from to avoid honest discussion of the issues and use to demonize their opponents. (Other examples include “liberal”, “tax-and-spend” and “elitist”). Given this, it seems clear President Reagan would have supported giving in-state college tuition to children of undocumented immigrants who have lived their whole lives in the local community.

Maybe Mike Huckabee really is like Reagan.

Nah. Let me settle the argument. None of these guys are like Ronald Reagan – a conclusion borne out by numerous polls of Republican voters who express extreme dissatisfaction when they are asked about their choice of presidential candidates.

Utah’s working families lose a friend and advocate

SALT LAKE CITY - Ed Mayne, Utah state senator and president of the AFL-CIO passed away Sunday, Nov, 25, 2007, at home surrounded by his family. His joyous, battling spirit that so distinguished his life and his politics will be missed.

For more than 30 years, Ed Mayne raised his voice on behalf of Utah’s working families. What some considered idealism, he called common sense. Ed Mayne knew it was just common sense that families should do better economically, that workers should be safe at their jobs, that everyone should have quality health care, and that our schools should perform well. He believed that the American Dream is not just for the lucky among us but should be a possibility available to all of us.

An honest man who led with his heart, Ed Mayne always put people front and center in his work and in his personal life.

We all want our lives to mean something, to change something. The life Ed lived did both. Everyone who ever knew Ed knows what he would want us to do: Don’t mourn - go out and speak up for those who have no voice, empower those who think of themselves as powerless, and never give up.

Funeral Service information for Senator Ed Mayne

Funeral service information for Senator Mayne:

Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Viewing / Visitation
6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Utah Labor Center
2261 South Redwood Road

Thursday, November 29, 2007
Viewing / Visitation
Utah State Senate Chambers
6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
West Building
Utah State Capitol Campus
Salt Lake City

Visitors to the Capitol may park in available employee parking stalls during the viewing.

Friday, November 30, 2007
Funeral Services
11:00 a.m.
Utah Cultural Center
1355 West 3100 South

Please call the Utah State Senate for more information: 801-538-1035.
posted by The Senate Site at 3:14 PM

Senator Ed Mayne dies at 62

Paul Mayne: I Love You Dad

JM Bell: Senator Eddie Mayne - 1945 - 2007 You Will Be Eternally Missed

Blue in Red Zion: Ed Mayne 1945-2007

Sen. Mike Dmitrich: End of an Era--The Passing of Senator Ed Mayne

Sen. John Valentine: Farewell Senator Mayne

Rep. Steve Urquart: Sen. Ed Mayne

Davis Didjeridu:What People Should Think About When They Say the Phrase "Liberal Unions"

KSL: Senator Mayne Passes Away

KUTV: Utah State Senator Dies From Lung Cancer

D News: Longtime Utah Legislator and Labor Activist Ed Mayne Dies

D News: Sen Ed Mayne dies of cancer

SL Trib:Ed Mayne mourned as both 'strong ally' and 'able adversary'

SL Trib: State Sen. Mayne 'a true statesman,' succumbs to cancer

Fox 13: Senator Dies After Battle With Cancer

Utah Amicus: Tribute to Chance Mayne, Golden Retriever and Loyal Companion

We need a leader, Mr. President

Much has been said in the liberal blogs about President Bush’s recent epiphany that, yes, a president has the power to veto spending bills that contain pork. The hypocrisy of his recent hard line stance in criticizing Democrats for excessive spending has been pointed out, considering government spending ballooned under Republican control the last six years at a rate unprecedented in American peacetime history, while the President’s veto pen gathered dust. Equally hypocritical is the fact that he is demonizing the Democratic leadership over said pork, when there are just as many Republican as Democratic earmarks in the disputed bills.

The continued practice of earmarks still disturbs most Americans, including yours truly (although new rules, such as PAYGO and better disclosure, have had some beneficial effect). However, an important fact bears repeating: As troubling as stories are about bridges to nowhere in Alaska, and as much as we need more members of Congress like Rep. Jim Cooper (D-Tennessee) and Jeff Flake (R-Arizona) that carry on the fight against earmarks year after year, pork-barrel spending is a drop in the bucket to the real financial “elephants in the room”. Those elephants are Social Security, the cost of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, and the cost of health care (Medicare, Medicaid, the VA etc.)

We need leadership that can quickly negotiate the measly $5-10 billion differences between the president’s budget and bills from Congress, and get to work on the real problems before they bankrupt the country. We also need to focus on regaining our standing in the world, so the nations of the earth can come together under our leadership and stamp out the scourge of terrorism.

Who is responsible for the lack of leadership? Harry Truman taught us where the buck stops. Although I’ve used the following example before, it bears repeating. After President Reagan was shot (and nearly died), the first non-family member to visit him in the hospital was Tip O’Neal. These two fierce political foes wept together and prayed together in that hospital room for the President’s recovery. President Reagan’s political opponents liked and respected the man, for the most part. Whether or not you agreed with his policies, Reagan was a leader, and as such, was able to make things happen, even though he was forced to work with a Democratic Congress.

Current events give me the sinking feeling that the nation is drifting along without a rudder. On almost every issue, from the war in Iraq to budgetary issues, the president is choosing to play the role of stubborn partisan antagonist rather than leader. Claims that congressional Democrats are doing the same thing are immaterial. It’s the President’s job to lead, to heal the nation and get us pulling together in the same direction. For the good of the nation, he must do so now.

Kermit sings the Blues

NIGHTSIDE

with

Ethan Millard - Alex Kirry


Better than ever!

KSL 102.7 FM

Thanksgiving 2007: "To grandmother's house we go!"

My mother, Judy Harper (The Queen Bee), back in 1943 with her mother Norma Kendall and her oldest brother Jim.

In Memory of President John F. Kennedy

May 29, 1917 - November 22, 1963

Let the word go forth
From this time and place
To friend and foe alike
That the torch has been passed
To a new generation of Americans.

Let every nation know
Whether it wishes us well or ill
That we shall pay any price - bear any burden
Meet any hardship - support any friend
Oppose any foe to assure the survival
And the success of liberty

Now the trumpet summons us again
Not as a call to bear arms
- though embattled we are
But a call to bear the burden of a long twilight struggle
A struggle against the common enemies of man Tyranny - Poverty - Disease - and War itself

In the long history of the world
Only a few generations have been granted
The role of defending freedom
In the hour of maximum danger
I do not shrink from this responsibility
I welcome it

The Energy - the Faith - the Devotion
Which we bring to this endeavor
Will light our country
And all who serve it
And the glow from that fire
Can truly light the world

And so my fellow Americans
Ask not what your country can do for you
Ask what you can do for your country
My fellow citizens of the world - ask not
What America can do for you - but what together
We can do for the freedom of man

With a good conscience our only sure reward
With history the final judge of our deeds
Let us go forth to lead the land we love - asking His blessing
And his help - but knowing that here on earth
God's work must truly be our own.

Inaugural Address - January 20, 1961

Meet Jake on UA2

Think About it, Think, Think About It

A little while back at my school, one of our football players won some National Guard All-American honor; or something like that. Anyway, like twenty people from the National Guard came to speak and one talked of why it is essential that kids like us join the army right now with our conflict in the Middle-East. But here's the ticker: a group of kids made a huge flag, out of burlap or something, that had a "peace" sign on it, and brought it to the assembly. They didn't really yell, or do anything, but they held the flag up. They were soon kicked out by our, once gym coach, now Vice Principal. A lot of people got mad, and there was some debate for a while whether it was disrespectful or not. I could argue its innocence, but some others see the other way. Nothing happened, things moved on.

More...

Well, Damn.. Yankees

The last four months I, as well as about sixty other cast members, fifty orchestra performers, and twenty technical crew kids have been working up to this previous weekend. We put on the famous musical, "Damn Yankees." Traditionally, before the nightly performances, we do two matinees for elementary kids. However, last year we did a musical called, "Thoroughly Modern Millie," and, even though it was an entirely G-rated performance, there is reference to Chinese slave trade. So a teacher in the audience had her entire class walk out of the performance, then went to yell at our, more than respectable director for a while.

More...

utahamicus2.net
utahamicus2.org
utahamicus2.com

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to speak at Park City event on behalf of Utah environmental group

PARK CITY - Great Salt Lakekeeper and the Park City Arts Foundation will sponsor a public speech on Dec. 9 by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a prominent environmental activist, attorney and best-selling author.

Kennedy was named one of Time magazine’s “Heroes for the Planet” in recognition of his defense of the environment. He is chairman of the board of Waterkeeper Alliance, a coalition of over 150 Waterkeeper organizations worldwide. Each chapter is dedicated to protecting local waterways.

Kennedy will talk about the important role natural surroundings play in our work, health, and identity as Americans.

The lecture will be held at the Eccles Center for the Performing Arts, located at 1750 Kearns Blvd. in Park City on the campus of Park City High School. It begins at 5:30 p.m.

Tickets are $18 and $30. Advance tickets may be purchased by contacting the Eccles Center box office at (435) 655-3114 or by e-mailing boxoffice@ecclescenter.org. The Eccles Center box office is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The speech benefits Great Salt Lakekeeper, a locally based environmental conservation organization and licensed member of Waterkeeper Alliance.

This event is co-sponsored by Community Radio KCPW and KPCW and the Salt Lake City Film Center.

Create your own town

The press has carried the story recently how out of state developer Dean Sellers wants to turn Daniels Canyon near Heber City into Utah's newest city: Aspen, Utah.

It's funny the mainstream press hasn't carried the rest of the story. Mr. Seller's dream town was made possible by HB 466, passed in the last session of the Utah Legislature. Among other things, the bill allows developers to bypass county government, forces residents who don't want to be part of the new town to "join up", and allows the developer to appoint who's going to be the mayor (and other officials) for the first two years.

Wow. And they called Alexander Hamilton a monarchist.

Tantrum Part II: Lohra's naive budget demands not backed by facts

Salt Lake County

Chris Buttars Evolves

I found this quote in today's trib.

"It evolved. It rose to the surface real fast that we needed to have an indepenent commission."

I never thought I'd hear Chris Buttars admit that something could evolve.

How quickly we forget.

Blessed Are the Warmongers

"Utah is Republican, so we're for war. So it's kind of weird we don't take a day off to respect that."

- Kristy Klemm, Riverton High School Student as found on the Internets.
Even warmongers need a day off.

Congratulations JM Bell, Utah's Most Influential Political Blog !

Utah's Most Influential Political blogs

1. JM Bell
   
2. The Utah Amicus
   
3. Mark Towner's Political Spyglass
   
4. The Sidetrack
   
5. KVNU's For The People
   
6. UTAH CONSERVATIVE
7. SLCSpin
8. Wasatch Watcher
9. Reach Upward
10. The Senate Site
11. Voice of Utah
12. Pursuit of Liberty
13. The Third Avenue
14. Simple Utah Mormon Politics
15. The World, According To Me
16. Utahania
17. Green Jello
18. GenRolly Speaking
19. Weber County Forum
20. Out of Context

Coming Soon: Kelly Ann Booth, A Progressive Utahn

ABC 4: Barack Obama sets up political shop in Utah

To view click here!

Harry Reid's BYU speech

I know I'm over a month behind the times, but I've been pretty busy with family stuff. I finally got a chance to read Senator Reid's speech at BYU last month. (Click on the link above.) My favorite line:

"It is not uncommon for members of the Church to ask how I can be a Mormon and a Democrat. Some say my party affiliation puts me in the minority of our Church members. But my answer is that if you look at the Church membership over the years, Democrats have not always been the minority, and I believe we won’t be for long. I also say that my faith and political beliefs are deeply intertwined. I am a Democrat because I am a Mormon, not in spite of it."

I've passed this along to some of my conservative Mormon friends who think Harry Reid is the most evil person since Lilburn W. Boggs. Based on the feedback, I think I've changed some minds.

Comparing Ralph and Rocky

A very Republican co-worker approached me with a sour look on her face this week. When I asked what was the matter, she said, “Well, it looks like Ralph Becker is no better than Rocky.” Probing a little deeper, I discovered she was upset about Mayor-elect Becker’s pledge to make domestic partner benefits one of the first priorities of his administration.

Here’s what I said to my friend: Make no mistake, Ralph Becker is a progressive Democrat. That’s what his constituents want, and it’s one of the reasons he was elected by such a wide margin. But let me ask a question: During Ralph’s many years as a leader in the State House, can you recall one instance where he was featured on the evening news passionately criticizing someone else?

Mayor Anderson and Mayor-elect Becker have similar political values. But there are differences in style and methods. And with all due respect to Mayor Anderson, who has accomplished a lot for the city of Salt Lake, I’m looking forward to having Ralph as the mayor of Utah’s capitol city.

There are two reasons for this. First, Garrison Keillor said once, “I am a liberal, and liberalism is the politics of kindness”. Some progressives feel they need to use Coulter-esque techniques to attack the views of Ann Coulter and Sean Hannity. I disagree. In a weird way, rudeness and mean-spirited attack methods work for Coulter; it fits in with her view of the world. I just don’t think it works for liberalism. Ralph is a passionate guy, but I think his low-key public persona better fits the Garrison Keillor mold.

Secondly, if Democrats are ever going to get Utah to shed its image as “the reddest state in the nation”, they have missionary work to do. There simply aren’t enough Democrats in the state. They need to convert more independents and moderate Republicans to their side. Rocky is very popular with the base in Salt Lake County, and he has no equal in energizing the faithful. But with all due respect to Mayor Anderson, I think Ralph will be the better missionary.

I had the opportunity to get to know Ralph during the last two years. I have a great deal of respect and admiration for the man. I think he’ll be a great mayor and a good representative for Utah Democrats.

Here’s the bottom line. Call me an optimist, but I think when Ralph advocates domestic partner rights, he will actually have a pretty good chance of persuading people outside of his core constituency that it’s the right thing to do. Isn’t that what politics is about?

Utah Democratic Party Officers appear in Major Motion Picture

NIGHT OF THE LIVING REPUBLICANS
Starring

Wayne and Katie Holland
With a Cameo Appearance by
Rob Miller as Rod Decker
Produced and Edited by Katie Holland

DOUBLE FEATURE INCLUDES:
NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEMOCRATS

Geez, Thanks Speaker Curtis!

"In fact, the anti-voucher Utah Education Association ought to thank me. We've brought some finality to this issue."

Utah Speaker Greg Curtis
Source, Salt Lake Tribune

SL Trib: Voucher war burns GOP

Referendum defeat may cost Utah Republicans in '08 polls
By Robert Gehrke

Rarely does the Utah Legislature get its comeuppance as it did when voters overwhelmingly defeated state-funded private school vouchers last week.

But the real reckoning may come a year from now, when those who fought for a plan scorned by nearly two-thirds of the state seek re-election.

The public sentiment expressed in the referendum could hardly be more clear, nor could the disconnect between the voters and their elected representatives.

Not only did the voucher plan fail in every one of Utah's 29 counties, but an analysis by The Salt Lake Tribune shows it failed in nearly every district represented by the most ardent supporters of the voucher movement, in some cases by resounding margins.

Before the first vote was counted, Democrats sought to capitalize on voter resentment, reminding voters in five districts, including House Speaker Greg Curtis', that their legislator backed vouchers and ''doesn't share our values on education."

Republican Rep. Kory Holdaway, a Taylorsville High School teacher, pleaded with his legislative colleagues in February to listen to their constituents and vote down the voucher bill. He wishes some would have gotten the message.

"Quite honestly, I think the Legislature has gone too far to the right and I think the general electorate is not pleased with where we are as a body," he said. "I think there could be some political fallout related to this."

More...

Here they go again!

A politicized school board?
Superintendency, form of elections being considered
By Jennifer Toomer-Cook Deseret Morning News

Who's your Presidential candidate?

This was interesting. Click on the link above, answer a few questions, click the "find your candidate" button, and the program will tell you which Presidential candidate has positions most like your own. Several people I know who took this were surprised!

Home values predicted to fall 22% in Salt Lake

Many Utahns, especially in real estate, are saying that the sub-prime mortgage fueled real estate mess is going to bypass Utah. The thinking goes that the economy is doing well here and home prices will continue to rise.

Not so fast. Fortune Magazine did a study of major metropolitan areas where they compared the long-term ratio between rents and median home prices (Click here to read the story.)A change in this ratio is a good predictor that home prices are being driven by speculation, and historically, this ratio always returns to normal through depression of home prices. Given this analysis, Fortune predicts that Salt Lake metro will be one of the top 25 areas in the country for loss of real estate value, estimating 22.5% decrease in home values over the next five years.

The so-called booming economy the last seven years has been built on a mountain of public and private debt. More and more economists are recognizing this fact and are predicting a recession to correct the speculative excesses caused by all this debt. This latest study is a warning that Utah will not be spared the pain of this correction.

New Utah State House Democratic Caucus Leadership for 2008

Rep. Brad King
House Minority Leader

Rep. David Litvack
Minority Whip

Rep. Carol Spackman Moss
Minority Assistant Whip

Rep. Phil Riesen
Minority Caucus Manager

The Politics of Self Aggrandizement: If you don't get what you want, throw a tantrum--uh, I mean, press conference

Republican District Attorney Lohra Miller
Former Republican Mayor Nancy Workman in her Mugshot when she was booked for two felonies

After already receiving a 10% increase in her budget, Salt Lake County DA Lohra Miller, stomped her feet at Mayor Corroon today in a press conference as if she had not received enough allowance or a new car for her 16th birthday. She claims that she desperately needs a 26% increase in her budget instead of her already allocated 10%. Unlike most experienced managers, Miller's antics shows her naivete about the county budget. A 26% increase is unheard of in county politics, you cannot even efficiently hire the people in a sound manner to support 26%. Miller received authorization for several new employees in June and did not get them hired until October. Meanwhile 15 of the office's most experienced Prosecutors left the office because of her abusive managerial style. For 16 years DA David Yocom operated the office without ever getting an increase in his budget. Miller's demands reveal her inability to manage within the budget historically offered to the office. Her motivation is pure self-aggrandizement and political in nature.

Perhaps, her political theater is the brainchild of John Rosenthal, the former high ranking deputy to Nancy Workman, who is now Miller's top advisor. Workman, who never found a piece of county property that didn't deserve to have her name and face plastered all over it, was accused of rampant cronyism and managerial incompetence.

Maybe Miller is trying to distract the public by attacking Mayor Corroon because she is embroiled in her own political scandals:

D.A. departures cause a stir

County attorney at odds with neighbors

Miller investigated for violation of Election Laws

Dear Homer and Don (Not Uncle Don),

The Utah Amicus wants you to join our blog!

If you are interested, or if you have questions send us an e-mail at utahamicus@aol.com.

Thanks for your consideration.

With every best wish,

The Utah Amicus

Honoring our veterans

Yesterday, a very good friend who is a retired Air Force colonel and Vietnam War veteran reminded the rest of us what day it was by wearing his dress blue uniform to church. He graciously came up to thank my wife and me for the service of our son in the Navy. As is the case with many in the military, some of his children and their spouses are also serving in the armed forces. During our chat, my friend told me a son in law was coming home from Iraq after being wounded in battle. This young patriot, in a short phone conversation with his father in law, made the statement, “I can’t wait to talk to you about this, Dad. You’re the only one who will understand.”

I don’t think most of us take the time to ponder what it would be like to put your life (or more dramatically, the life of your son or daughter) in harm’s way for your country. One of my earliest recollections as a child is of the funeral of my cousin, Randy, who was killed in Vietnam. I remember vividly the honor guard placing the folded flag in the arms of my aunt, a grieving mother who lost her oldest son just a few weeks before he was scheduled to return home. And it’s not just the ones who don’t come home. We are learning more every year about the long term costs to these veterans in long term mental and physical health issues.

Clearly, the most patriotic thing one can do for America is to lay the ultimate sacrifice on the altar of freedom by volunteering to serve in our nation’s armed forces.

Although this may be controversial to some, I believe maybe the second most patriotic thing one can do is to keep the heat on our political leaders, to make sure those who offer that ultimate sacrifice are only put into harm’s way for a cause that is truly worthy of that devotion. The best way to support our troops is to exercise the rights secured by them to participate in our democracy, including protest when appropriate.

Where's Sim Gill when we need him?

Salt Lake County District Attorney Lohra Miller has been in the news a lot recently. We've heard about a mass exodus of experienced attorneys, allegations of misconduct, and complaints by neighbors of wild parties into the wee hours of the morning.

I have one thing to say to Salt Lake County residents (with a specific nod to Beau Babka). Picture me with my arm figuratively around the shoulders of my good and capable friend Sim Gill as I say four short words:

We told you so.

Three reasons why Davis County taxes keep going up

By Richard Watson

Now that the 2007 elections are over, we will soon be focusing on the 2008 elections. Unfortunately, most Utahns will be looking at the Presidential candidates more than the local candidates. Sure it important to be current on national affairs, but we should never overlook our state, county and city problems.

Even though conservatives will want to focus on immigration and so called “moral” issues, they will only mention taxes as a general, rhetorical, campaign soundbite (smaller government, etc). But, are conservatives really serious about taxes? Judging the elections for the past 20 years, taxes are not that important to conservatives because they elect Republicans who persist on raising taxes, both locally and nationally.

But, there are three big reasons as to why taxes keep rising.

First: Elected-Republicans in Utah can raise taxes without worrying about their re-election.

Second: Elected-Republicans, locally and federally, cut taxes for a small percentage of prosperous families, but fail to cut taxes for middle-income families. Thus, the majority of Americans are picking up the “tab”.

To see an example of how the middle-class is stuck paying more taxes, click on the Warren Buffett interview: Video of Warren Buffett interview, NBC Nightly News, November 6, 2007

Third: The biggest myth ever concocted in politics is that Democrats raise taxes and Republicans cut taxes.

Yet, for many, especially in Davis County, that election type language only means that it is a myth. In almost three decades, locally elected-Democrats have not raised taxes and the majority of elected-Republicans have raised taxes.

So, what’s the point? The point is that we should be weary of any Republican talking about tax cuts because they can not back up their past promises. And since we have no elected-Democrats in Davis County, no one can claim that Democrats will raise taxes. The proof is not there, but there is an overabundance of evidence that Republicans do and will raise taxes.

Of course, there will be those who say, “why should we just vote for a Democrat?” Then my response would be, “why should we continue to vote for Republicans?” Then there are those who will say, “stop your whining” or “a Democrat is still capable of raising taxes”. For those who want to live the fantasy that one-party government is perfect, then stop your whining about paying higher taxes.

Corroon

Ebay: Mitt Romney Flip Flop Kit (Special Edition)

The Democratic National Committee is auctioning off a special edition Mitt Romney Flip-Flop Kit.

Having apparently run out of policy positions to auction off this campaign season, Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney is now calling on his supporters to join him in selling off parts of their pasts too. Sure, smooth talking Mitt Romney is reportedly planning to spend as much as $60 million of his own money to win the GOP nomination. But his campaign is still looking to reverse its declining fundraising numbers by convincing supporters to auction off old belongings and give the proceeds to the campaign.

Since Romney has tried to smooth talk his way to the GOP nomination by shedding his previous positions on just about every issue in this campaign, his friends at the Democratic National Committee decided to join the fun by auctioning off Romney’s past. This one of a kind, special edition Mitt Romney Flip Flop Kit includes:

Mitt Romney's Flip Flops on issues ranging from abortion, immigration, tax cuts, the Reagan administration, gay rights, campaign finance reform, climate change, conservatism, gambling, gun control, etc.;

• A limited edition DVD of some of Romney’s more infamous flip-flops;
• Flip-Flop flash cards in the shape of flip-flops so you can study on all of Mitt Romney's various positions, courtesy of the Massachusetts Democratic Party.
• A new pair of flip-flops;
• A collectors edition foam flip-flop distributed at campaign events by a rival candidate;
• A replica of the snowman that Mitt Romney is afraid to take questions from at the YouTube debate; and
• A collection of Democratic signs, posters, pins and collectibles.

In order to avoid profiting from Romney’s flip-flopping, the DNC will donate an amount equal to the winning bid to a local pet shelter in honor of embattled Romney family dog Seamus.

Special note—our lawyers are making us say this—the winning bid is a contribution to the Democratic National Committee and is subject to the restrictions and limitations of federal campaign finance laws. The DNC will make a contribution equal to the amount of the winning bid to a local animal shelter. Contributions are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes.

Paid for and authorized by the Democratic National Committee. This communication is not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee.

The current bid is $102.50. Click here to place your bid. You have six days to bid.

Count the cost

We frequently hear about the dead and wounded among our brave soldiers in the war, but a new study highlights the tremendous lifetime costs that are paid by those who offer up the ultimate sacrifice on the altar of freedom.

The Homeless Research Institute found that over a quarter of the US homeless population are veterans of war, despite the fact that they constitute only 11 percent of the civilian adult population. This is more surprising since veterans have a higher than average level of education and skills. (Click here to read the entire news story.)

I listened to the stories of many veterans during my congressional race last year, and it is tragic to learn how much lives are impacted when we take good people and place them under the indescribable pressure cooker of battle. The human soul was not designed to suffer that kind of damage. Our leaders need to do a better job factoring in the toll of human suffering by our returning heroes before they commit them to the hellhole called war, and we need to do better at caring for those souls once they have returned.

The Ron Paul Revolution

What’s up with Ron Paul? The grandfatherly OB/GYN doctor and libertarian Republican has always generated controversy and has been a genuine thorn-in-the-side of congressional Republican leaders for years. But his quixotic Presidential bid seems to be gaining some traction, at least on the financial front. Paul is raising serious money on the Internet, and is raising it almost exclusively in small donations. His followers are unique in their devotion. A recent CNN/Political Ticker story about his raising $4.2 million on Guy Fawkes Day was followed by dozens of comments from his supporters, praising him in almost Messianic language. There are frequent and passionate letters endorsing him on Utah’s editorial pages.

What’s behind the passion? As one who disagrees with many of his positions on the issues, I have to admit that I really admire the guy. It seems clear that he is one of the few truly anti-establishment Presidential candidates (Dennis Kucinich is another) who are speaking out with Truman-esque clarity about where current government policies of special-interest patronage, borrow-and-spend promises, over-extension of our military and erosion of our liberties are taking us. His conservatism is a different brand than what I call Tom DeLay Conservatism, where the term “limited government” really means “I want the government to limit you but give all the power to me”. Tom De Lay Conservatism has resulted in a bloated and intrusive government, ever increasing government spending, massive national and private debt, and an inexorable transfer of the nation’s wealth from middle class Americans to the super rich.

As I’ve written before on these pages, I’m not personally a big fan of governing by ideology. In my view, pragmatism dictates that some functions in a democratic free market society can be more efficiently provided by public servants, with close oversight by the electorate. In essence, that’s what the voucher debate was about. And my study of the Constitution, the history surrounding its creation, and the Federalist Papers makes clear that the founders meant for the government to have sufficient power to solve problems that would help “promote the general Welfare” (power that is circumscribed by many checks and balances, of course).

Ron Paul and his followers, on the other hand, are definitely ideologues. Having said that, I believe that if we’re choosing between Tom DeLay or Ron Paul conservative ideology, the nation and average middle class Americans would be a lot better off under the Ron Paul version. He’s the real deal: his track record shows he is a tireless defender of limited government and a fighter against wealthy special interests. The man and his followers have an important message.

Like I said, I admire Dr. Paul. I hope the ghosts of Jack and Bobby Kennedy don’t haunt me for saying this, but if he showed up on the ballot in 2008 as an independent (there’s no way the Tom DeLay Conservatives will ever allow him on the Republican ticket), I just might be tempted to vote for him.

Lack of government oversight: Toys linked to a date-rape drug recalled

WASHINGTON - Millions of Chinese-made toys have been pulled from shelves in North America and Australia after scientists found they contain a chemical that converts into a powerful “date rape” drug when ingested. Two children in the U.S. and three in Australia were hospitalized after swallowing the beads. More...

My pick for post of the week

Intolerance in Zion

When I confirmed that I indeed would not take action, he demanded my name so that he could report me. “This is outrageous! I’m leaving and never coming back here again. This is why the taxpayers, whose taxes pay your salary, get upset; the library is becoming a refuge for crazies and the homeless.”

To Steve Olsen: You've Hit The Nail On the Head

Once again, the fabulous Steve Olsen has encapsulated my thoughts perfectly (see his excellent post, here.)

I only have a few things to add, and then I'm putting my fight against vouchers to rest for awhile...

I have been following a post over at Coolest Family Ever, where Jesse is talking about why the pro-voucher camp (to which he belongs) may benefit by looking at why they lost. It's a thoughtful and honest post, and I have to say that I agree with his assessements.

See here: http://www.coolestfamilyever.com/2007/11/06/to-fellow-voucher-supporters/

One comment that has been with me throughout the day comes from "That One Guy" who says that "while the public education system may be broken, voting for the first shabbily-conceived solution isn’t the answer."

Several days back I had a conversation with a home school parent who was pro-voucher and pro referendum 1 because 1. he believed he would be getting some tax dollars back if it passed and 2. when i explained to him that he had to have his kids enrolled in some private school with 41 or more students in order to qualify for a voucher, he was surprised that he had been mislead. But he also said "well, its just that this bill finally gives parents a choice." He sincerely believes that public schools are not the answer for his children. He is a good friend of mine and I have always respected his choice to educate his children at home. I also believe that he sincerely feels that he has no other "choice" than to do so.

Over the next several months I am going to work very hard at understanding what this means -- to give parents a choice in how their kids are educated. To me, the choice has always existed, and I don't understand what a new law does that suddenly empowers parents to make choices for their children. I asked my friend if the voucher law somehow justified his position to educate his children at home, or if there were public school officials at his door every day with a gun to his head, forcing his kids back to school and therefore eliminating his choice. Of course he laughed out loud with me at the very picture of such a thing.

This light hearted conversation with my friend has reaffirmed my commitment to bridge the political divide that exists in our state. One blessing of the whole voucher fight was that I saw people from all walks of life and political persuasions joining together to fight the thing because they just felt it was not the right answer. Some voucher fighters believe in the free market, but believe that a free market shouldn't be subsidized with tax dollars. Other voucher fighters, like me, want to make public schools in utah the best in the nation, if not the world. And still others are the true conservatives who don't want government meddling in private enterprise (the thought of private schools having to be accountable to the government made them turn green).

As citizens of Utah and more importantly as human beings, we know that education of our children is the most important thing we can do for our country. I believe more than ever that crusaders on both sides of this debate have one common goal: to provide the best possible education for our children. I hope the voucher debate has brought us together, instead of pull us apart.

I would like to echo a comment by Rob on "Coolest Family Ever" where he says "there is too much work to do." He's absolutely right. If we want stellar education- whether it be public or private - well, then it's time to get down to business and make it happen. No more us vs. them. No more political discussion. Let's just get to work and find real answers to make our education dreams for our children come true. I am not going to give up on that.

Emily

Where do we go from here to improve Utah schools?

Now that the election is over and Utah voters have rejected Referendum 1 by almost a 2-1 margin, I have to admit, I agree with Doug Wright: It's been a great discussion, but thank goodness it's over!

I was impressed last night listening to Richard Eyre's comments on the evening news. He was gracious and upbeat. I think most pro-voucher proponents are sincerely concerned about Utah's children. Hopefully, now that Utah's citizens have spoken, these concerned parents can join the rest of us in channeling the energy that has been generated in a concerted effort to improve public education for all Utah's children. The vote was a affirmation from Utahns that they support their public schools, which have worked miracles the last few decades with minimal resources. I couldn't disagree more with Patrick Byrne, whose petulant reaction to the loss of his pet project was to predict Utah's future would resemble Albania's because of our supposed failed education system. The end product of Utah's public schools - well educated young adults who are the key ingredient in attracting the influx of business that has fueled Utah's impressive economic growth - is conclusive proof Byrne's pessimism is simply wrong.

I agree with those who say we need more than just more money, although we must make a concerted effort to get out of that embarrassing 51st position on per pupil spending. Debate needs to start on innovative solutions to recruiting and maintaining quality teachers; solutions like recruiting engineers and scientists to spend the last ten years of their careers as math and science teachers.

One word on the question of choice. I want to again emphasise that public schools give us huge opportunities for choice. Parents can choose to join and become active in local PTA chapters. They can choose to attend school board meetings or even run for school boards. They can choose to attend parent-teacher conferences and become actively involved in their local public schools. Most importantly, they can choose to turn off the TV and play a few less rounds of golf, to sit down with their children and actively involve themselves in what their children are learning. I've always felt the most effective education model is a combination of public schools and home schooling; where we help our children succeed in their public school classes and then work with them to do more, to choose what is interesting to them and pursue additional study with the active involvement of their parents.

It's parents, not schools, who are responsible for the education of their children, and it is parents who determine how successful their children will be in their education. Now that the debate is over, it's time to reinforce that fact.

Referendum 1 has been defeated!

The people have spoken and we have defeated Referendum1!

Congratulations!

Make no mistake that this was one of the most pivotal election decisions ever decided in the state of Utah.

Let's hope that we can heal our wounds and come together to build a public education system that is second to none in the nation and create the educational opportunities that will serve all of Utah's children.

I'm grateful.

I'm tired.

And I think I'm going away for a while.

Once again I send to you my admiration and congratulations!

With every best wish,

The Utah Amicus

Bill Clinton in Utah: "I liked that man who holded me"

On November 4, 2007 former President Bill Clinton came to Utah to serve as a surrogate for his wife Hillary at several fundraisers. Thanks to the benevolence of former Utah Democratic Chairman Donald Dunn, I was able to attend that event with my three year old son Samuel.

When Sami and I arrived at the event there was already a long line of excited Democrats waiting to meet a man who I believe is one of the greatest United States Presidents to serve our nation during my lifetime. I can already imagine some of the comments that my last statement will provoke, but honesty is the best policy, and I have no reservations in revealing that this Utah Democrat loves and admires former president Bill Clinton.

Several local press agencies have already reported on President Clinton's uncanny ability to connect with his audience, and how his message of hope was nothing less than inspirational to the 1500 plus Utah Democrats who were in attendance that day.

But this isn't the story of the majority who were in attendance that day. This is the story of my three year old son, Samuel Amicus Miller, and the words he used to describe our former president, William Jefferson Clinton.

If you visit this blog on a consistent basis you may have already viewed the photo of former governor Calvin L. Rampton pulling a young Rob Miller in a wagon. I didn't realize it at the time, but that photo has become a personal treasure.

Cal was a great inspiration to me and I never imagined, especially now that he is gone, how much that image would mean later in my adult life.

When President Clinton allowed the above photo to be taken one might imagine how thrilled I was, but it was what Sami said after the event that helped me better understand what a special person Bill Clinton really is.

After the event as we walked to the car I said, I'm sorry Sami that we were there so long, did you have fun?"

His immediate reply was, "I liked that man who holded me."

"How come?", I asked.

"Because he was nice."

I then asked, "How did it feel?"

"Like he was Santa!" was Sami's reply.

Later that night Sami told his mother a secret about his experience with President Clinton which wasn't unlike an experience I had when I was a child with Governor Rampton. I was going to share what Sami said to his mother, but in retrospect, I think I'll keep that private.

I want to thank Donald Dunn for allowing Sami and me the opportunity to meet President Clinton. I also need to thank President Clinton for taking a few moments from his busy schedule to help create a memory that Sami can reflect on and treasure throughout his life.

Photo by DNC Committee Woman Helen Langan

Presidential Nominees by Feb. 5th, 2008?

Is it really possible that with the numerous state Presidential Primaries front loaded on to the first two months of 2008 that we may know who the Democratic and Republican nominees are by February 5th? Historically the Presidential election cycle is rearing a new face and a new phase of strategy beyond the seedy Rovian tactics, back to smart folks playing the ultimate chess game. Watching this election play out will be more exciting than the Detroit Redwings hockey team defeating the Colorado Avalanche in the Stanley Cup Finals. So if you are a political junkie now is the time to case your bets, visit with your bookie located on speed dial for one of the most interesting elections to watch that will be talked about for generations to come.

Check out Stateline.org for more extensive month to month analysis recording the dates of the state Presidential Primaries. As well see the attached map in this article that I color coded for your ease of understanding the significant affect these Primaries will have in gaining traction and high viability on Western political issues (source: Stateline.org).

Aaron Thompson
Utah State Director
Richardson for President
801-381-4077

KVNU's For The People makes a pretty grandiose claim

Check it out!

I just received a personal phone call from "PCE's Poster Boy" himself!

It's true!

Governor Waffle Waffle Jr. just called to speak with me.

But when I asked if he was still OK with with my decision to vote against Referendum 1, he simply wouldn't answer.

His message did sound familiar, but kind of different too.

And he was in such a hurry.

Oh well, maybe we can talk later, after the Waffle Police go away.

But until then...

AN ELECTION EVE MESSAGE FROM UTAH DEMOCRATIC CHAIR WAYNE HOLLAND

"Public schools, more than any institution in our society … have brought together different groups - groups which in our societies would always be at war with each other - and taught them to respect and work with each other. It's no exaggeration to say that the public schools helped bring about a political, social and cultural miracle."

- Albert Shanker, educator

VOTE! It's too important to stay at home

The GOP Legislature threw down the gauntlet nine months ago and enacted the most comprehensive voucher law in the country, overcoming (by one vote) a bloc of every Democratic legislator united in a courageous effort stop it and ignoring the wishes of the majority of Utahns.

Republicans made good on their long-time commitment to wealthy out-of-state allies and educational profiteers, a nationwide coalition of far-right ideologues - "Friedmanites" as The Salt Lake Tribune editorial board called them - whose stated goal is the privatization of American education.

It was an in-your-face display of self-righteous arrogance by Republicans sitting pretty in districts they gerrymandered to protect themselves. They put their anti-democracy streak on display. It's easy to sum up their attitude: "There's no need to vote. Just stay at home. We know what's best."

Utahns have core COMMON VALUES, among them a commitment to quality schools for everyone, strong families for today and the future, decent jobs, government accountability, fair play, environmental stewardship, and common-sense legislation that will improve our Utah way of life.

The voucher crowd mounted a mean-spirited campaign that relied on distortions, dirty tricks, and personal smears. Their campaign of nastiness did not reflect Utahns' COMMON VALUES, our sense of common decency. It did not reflect the values of Democrats.

It reflected the self-righteousness of the leadership of the Utah Republican Party.

On Nov. 6, send a message to your GOP Legislature. Democrats and the majority of Utahns share concerns and common-sense solutions. Send a message about our COMMON VALUES.

The 2008 election represents a historical opportunity for Democrats in Utah. GOP arrogance and culture of corruption and incompetence on the national level provide us an opportunity to bring Utah voters home, where their COMMON VALUES will be honorably represented in public service.

A columnist for the The Deseret Morning News recently said vouchers have "the potential to significantly change not only our public education operations, but Utah society itself."

As concerned citizens, you, me and every Utah Democrat most vote.

Let's make tomorrow the beginning of the end of GOP arrogance in Utah.

A big win will propel us into the important 2008 election year.