Have you heard the news about the Bush Administration’s plans for how much longer they wanted out soldiers in Iraq? What was supposed to be a 5-year mission has turned into a 6 year conflict, with three more still to go; and possibly more beyond that if the Iraqi Government triggers the option for our armed forces to remain even longer.
First, I read this morning that Bush and Cheney (and Cronies) tried to negotiate our continued military presence there until 2015! Excuse me?!!!! Whatever happened to “Five Years?” Further, who will benefit from our continued presence? Obviously the first thing that comes to mind is Iraq. There still is much to be done.
Secondly, what comes to my mind is Haliburton, the main company providing services and supplies to our forces. When the US first proposed the rebuilding of Iraq {following the “end of the war”) President Bush assured the country that they would perform an open bid on contracting for the goods and services required to rebuild infrastructure, and continue the supplying of what troops remained in Iraq.
Then, before we know it, the Administration (?) gave a no-bid contract to Haliburton, the company our overbearing Vice President ran before he became VP, and in which he holds huge stock options. What the #@&%?!!!! What happened to the “Open Bid process” that we were promised? Why weren’t other companies allowed to get their proverbial foot in the door?
To me, the answer is very simple. This current Presidential Administration was looking out for its own. Dick Cheney, already a millionaire many times over, saw the opportunity to make hundreds of millions more by putting his company in charge of the contracts. President Bush granted the wish of his biggest Crony, and assured his friend Mr. Cheney guaranteed income for years to come. What a pal.
The losers here? Well, I see two…First, the Iraqi people. Haliburton has been raking in billions over the last 6 years, and little has been accomplished in the rebuilding of Iraq. Second, the American taxpayer is footing the bill to pay Haliburton (and vicariously, lining Cheney’s pockets) for their services which to me have already been inadequate.
Where is the accountability this contractor should be having to the American people? Why are they not answerable for the seeming wastage of OUR money? Why is Congress allowing Haliburton to continue their exclusive contracts?
It seems that there is a BIG fox in the henhouse, and it is being allowed to feast on everything inside…for as long as it wants. I sure am glad that our President is watching over the American people as closely as he watches over the bank accounts of his closest friends. It’s comforting to know that my tax dollars are expanding the interests of Mr. Cheney and Cronies.
Thanks Dubya! What a pal…
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Mitt Romney as VP?
I'm tired of hearing all of the continuously rehashed rhetoric about Mitt Romney as a possible Vice President. This started when he was a frontrunner in the primaries, and continues every time his name surfaces as a possible VP selection.
Every article I read generally agrees that his qualifications in the business, political, and service world are outstanding. Sure, a few disagree with his stand on certain issues, and that he has changed his mind on a few things--this after he learned more, and made an educated, informed decision regarding his positions.
But the thing that gets me most on Governor Romney is that people, as much as they feel he is best-qualified, constantly refer to his "Mormonism" as the main factor they wouldn't vote for whom they say is the best for the job.
WHAT THE #@&%?! They won't vote for Mitt Romney because of his religious affiliation?! Our Constitution strictly forbids any religious test as a determinent in a race for the Presidency. Let me say that again...
The Constitution of the United States of America FORBIDS ANY RELIGIOUS TEST as a determinent in a race for the Presidency.
It seems very evident that this prohibition has been completely ignored in Mr. Romney's case. Why is that? What makes people so afraid of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints that they would ignore the law of the land in order to get him (Romney) out of the race?
If people started attacking Barack Obama's faith, the media would be whipping up a storm of vilification for anyone even mentioning his religion in a negative way. So why the double standard when it comes to Gov. Romney? Why is it not OK to attack Obama's religion, but open hunting season has been declared on Romney's faith? This doesn't make sense.
I actually read an interview with a leader of the Southern Evangelical Association who stated that (and I'm paraphrasing here) "Mr. Romney is perhaps the most qualified candidate in the race; but I just can't get past his Mormonism." Another gentleman being interviewed stated that "Mr. Romney is too good to be true. He's too wholesome (WHAT?!!!). He's got to be hiding something. Besides, he's a Mormon. I'd never vote for him." Lastly, a young man of about 25 I personally know told me "If a Mormon becomes President, I'm moving to Canada." I asked him if Mr. Romney's qualifications mattered to him. His reply, "Not if he's Mormon."
Wow...ignorance, bias, and hate at their ugliest.
When we, as a nation (citizens, media, etc) seek to exclude the man most everyone generally agrees as being the best choice to run this country (now as a possible VP candidate) because of his religious affiliation, we are dangerously attempting to rewrite the very letter and spirit of the law which prohibits such a practice.
The media [in general] should be ashamed that they are perpetuating the anti-Mormon bias because they either personally disagree with the Governor's beliefs, or they choose to continuously dwell in ignorance; reading and rehashing yet another "journalists" article that dwells simply on how bad a leader he would be because Romney is a "Mormon," rather than doing their own research in an effort to educate themselves so they can write fair, balanced stories that will actually leave it to the minds of the readers as to whether he is qualified.
Talk about leading a horse to water...
Every article I read generally agrees that his qualifications in the business, political, and service world are outstanding. Sure, a few disagree with his stand on certain issues, and that he has changed his mind on a few things--this after he learned more, and made an educated, informed decision regarding his positions.
But the thing that gets me most on Governor Romney is that people, as much as they feel he is best-qualified, constantly refer to his "Mormonism" as the main factor they wouldn't vote for whom they say is the best for the job.
WHAT THE #@&%?! They won't vote for Mitt Romney because of his religious affiliation?! Our Constitution strictly forbids any religious test as a determinent in a race for the Presidency. Let me say that again...
The Constitution of the United States of America FORBIDS ANY RELIGIOUS TEST as a determinent in a race for the Presidency.
It seems very evident that this prohibition has been completely ignored in Mr. Romney's case. Why is that? What makes people so afraid of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints that they would ignore the law of the land in order to get him (Romney) out of the race?
If people started attacking Barack Obama's faith, the media would be whipping up a storm of vilification for anyone even mentioning his religion in a negative way. So why the double standard when it comes to Gov. Romney? Why is it not OK to attack Obama's religion, but open hunting season has been declared on Romney's faith? This doesn't make sense.
I actually read an interview with a leader of the Southern Evangelical Association who stated that (and I'm paraphrasing here) "Mr. Romney is perhaps the most qualified candidate in the race; but I just can't get past his Mormonism." Another gentleman being interviewed stated that "Mr. Romney is too good to be true. He's too wholesome (WHAT?!!!). He's got to be hiding something. Besides, he's a Mormon. I'd never vote for him." Lastly, a young man of about 25 I personally know told me "If a Mormon becomes President, I'm moving to Canada." I asked him if Mr. Romney's qualifications mattered to him. His reply, "Not if he's Mormon."
Wow...ignorance, bias, and hate at their ugliest.
When we, as a nation (citizens, media, etc) seek to exclude the man most everyone generally agrees as being the best choice to run this country (now as a possible VP candidate) because of his religious affiliation, we are dangerously attempting to rewrite the very letter and spirit of the law which prohibits such a practice.
The media [in general] should be ashamed that they are perpetuating the anti-Mormon bias because they either personally disagree with the Governor's beliefs, or they choose to continuously dwell in ignorance; reading and rehashing yet another "journalists" article that dwells simply on how bad a leader he would be because Romney is a "Mormon," rather than doing their own research in an effort to educate themselves so they can write fair, balanced stories that will actually leave it to the minds of the readers as to whether he is qualified.
Talk about leading a horse to water...
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Taxes, Taxes, and Even More Taxes
Did you ever wonder how many taxes you pay out in a typical day? I'm not talking about the huge taxes on things such as your home, property, paycheck, etc. I'm referring to the myriad of taxes we thoughtlessly pay out on a daily basis.
On your way to work you have to stop and put gas in your car. While filling your tank, you are paying an average of 35-45 cents in taxes on each gallon of gas you pump. That means for 10 gallons of gas, you are paying $3.50-4.50 in taxes. The Federal, State and City goverments all get a cut.
For lunch you decide to eat out. Enjoy the food; because along with your meal, you are paying a State and a City tax.
On your way home you decide to pick up a few things. Depending on where you live, you might be paying taxes on groceries. Non-food items are definitely taxed by both the state and city in which you live.
After dinner you decide to go see the latest blockbuster movie. When paying for your admission, you don't just pay a state tax, you are also paying a city "entertainment" tax (I love that one---taxing you for having fun!). Getting snacks at the theater? Again, food, plus State and City taxes attached.
On your way home, you have that snack attack come upon you, and only an ice cream cone will take it away. On top of whatever you pay for the icy treat, State and City taxes once again are a part of your bill.
Do you see where this is going? Aside from walking down the street, just about everything we do has some sort of tax attached to it. Don't believe me? Think about what you do on a typical day, and determine whether or not you are paying taxes all day long.
Have a pet? The county you're in probable requires a pet license (tax!). Want to go to your favorite state park? It most likely has a "Day Use Fee" (tax!) in order to enjoy the benefits of the park.
How about a trip to your favorite amusement park? You'll pay taxes on the cost of admission, taxes on any food you buy, and on any souvenirs you purchase.Oh yeah, you probably pay a parking fee (tax!) too!
When you buy a car you pay taxes on the car, and a tax for registering it with the State. Then, every year that you own that (or any other) car, you get to pay a licensing fee (tax!) to be able to continue driving around in a vehicle that you already paid taxes on. In the buisiness world, this is called double dipping--a practice in which you provide a product or service only to get a better version a year or so later and charge the same customers a larger sum (for the new product) than they paid a year ago. In the case of our car licensing fees (taxes!), this happens every year; literally for the rest of your life.
At some level, I think politicians secretly hope that no one will figure out that the taxes paid by the average American in a single year is staggering. Since they bear the tax burden of this country, I'd love to know how much the average middle-income American pays out in taxes (in whatever form) over the course of a year. I bet it would be in the area of around 50-60% of their income.
One of the catalysts for the colonies breaking away was Taxation Without Representation. In a way, our elected officials are doing the same to all of us by taxing literally everything we do. They hold quiet legislative meetings for 'public input,' then when few people actually show to speak out about the taxes, they pass the proposals on from one sub-committee to the next until it becomes law, and yet another unwanted tax is added to our daily financial burden.
I encourage all of you to write your political leaders and demand answers (as is our Constitutional right) as to the why's of the current US tax code, and ask, "When will it end?" Then, if they balk or refuse to answer, use the power of your right to vote, and elect a new person in his/her stead.
Nothing will ever be done if no voice ever rises above the madness of our tax system, and we call upon our leaders to stop burdening us with taxes that only further shackle the very financial legs that this country stands on. Remember, the future of our country is literally in the hands of its people. So what will you choose to do?
On your way to work you have to stop and put gas in your car. While filling your tank, you are paying an average of 35-45 cents in taxes on each gallon of gas you pump. That means for 10 gallons of gas, you are paying $3.50-4.50 in taxes. The Federal, State and City goverments all get a cut.
For lunch you decide to eat out. Enjoy the food; because along with your meal, you are paying a State and a City tax.
On your way home you decide to pick up a few things. Depending on where you live, you might be paying taxes on groceries. Non-food items are definitely taxed by both the state and city in which you live.
After dinner you decide to go see the latest blockbuster movie. When paying for your admission, you don't just pay a state tax, you are also paying a city "entertainment" tax (I love that one---taxing you for having fun!). Getting snacks at the theater? Again, food, plus State and City taxes attached.
On your way home, you have that snack attack come upon you, and only an ice cream cone will take it away. On top of whatever you pay for the icy treat, State and City taxes once again are a part of your bill.
Do you see where this is going? Aside from walking down the street, just about everything we do has some sort of tax attached to it. Don't believe me? Think about what you do on a typical day, and determine whether or not you are paying taxes all day long.
Have a pet? The county you're in probable requires a pet license (tax!). Want to go to your favorite state park? It most likely has a "Day Use Fee" (tax!) in order to enjoy the benefits of the park.
How about a trip to your favorite amusement park? You'll pay taxes on the cost of admission, taxes on any food you buy, and on any souvenirs you purchase.Oh yeah, you probably pay a parking fee (tax!) too!
When you buy a car you pay taxes on the car, and a tax for registering it with the State. Then, every year that you own that (or any other) car, you get to pay a licensing fee (tax!) to be able to continue driving around in a vehicle that you already paid taxes on. In the buisiness world, this is called double dipping--a practice in which you provide a product or service only to get a better version a year or so later and charge the same customers a larger sum (for the new product) than they paid a year ago. In the case of our car licensing fees (taxes!), this happens every year; literally for the rest of your life.
To me, the most mind-boggling tax of all is what happens after you die. The State and Federal governments both get a cut of whatever estate remains (the "Death Tax")--and it is a huge cut at that. Then, those who inherit the remainder of the estate usually have to pay taxes on that inheritance!
ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!!!
At some level, I think politicians secretly hope that no one will figure out that the taxes paid by the average American in a single year is staggering. Since they bear the tax burden of this country, I'd love to know how much the average middle-income American pays out in taxes (in whatever form) over the course of a year. I bet it would be in the area of around 50-60% of their income.
One of the catalysts for the colonies breaking away was Taxation Without Representation. In a way, our elected officials are doing the same to all of us by taxing literally everything we do. They hold quiet legislative meetings for 'public input,' then when few people actually show to speak out about the taxes, they pass the proposals on from one sub-committee to the next until it becomes law, and yet another unwanted tax is added to our daily financial burden.
I encourage all of you to write your political leaders and demand answers (as is our Constitutional right) as to the why's of the current US tax code, and ask, "When will it end?" Then, if they balk or refuse to answer, use the power of your right to vote, and elect a new person in his/her stead.
Nothing will ever be done if no voice ever rises above the madness of our tax system, and we call upon our leaders to stop burdening us with taxes that only further shackle the very financial legs that this country stands on. Remember, the future of our country is literally in the hands of its people. So what will you choose to do?
Saturday, August 16, 2008
Who Will Send Aid to America's Hungry?
One of the reasons I started this blog was to create discussion about vital (and not-so-vital) issues facing us today. I strongly feel that being silent only increases the likelihood that nothing will ever change. With that thought, I have a subject that has bothered me for years...who is going to send aid to America's hungry people?
Every legislative year, Congress passes multiple foreign aid packages that are intended to help varying countries feed the hungry, educate the people, create jobs, and help to stimulate economies. That's ok. I'm glad that we have the money to be able to help emerging nations get closer to self-sufficiency.
However, while we annually spend tens of billions on these foreign aid packages, Congress typically cuts back on domestic aid and services. In other words, while we feed the world, many of our own citizens go hungry day after day, or don't have adequate shelter or clothing, or quality education for their kids.
Whether the public, our States, our Congress, or even our President want to admit it, this country has what has been described as a 'rampant hunger problem.' We have the poor and lower middle class income familes who can't adequately feed themselves. They are called the working poor.
The numbers of our own citizens going hungry or who are malnourished are not known. One estimate I read puts it in the tens of millions. These folks are not just living on the street. They can be (and probably are) your neighbors, friends, work associates, church acquaintances, etc.
Our elected leaders should be ashamed that 'the world's bread basket' cannot feed its own who are struggling. Their eyes are constantly searching for ways to help other countries, but are blind to their own struggling citizenery. This very opinion is fleshed out in constant cutbacks in programs for those needing help such as vocational training, social services, food assistance, etc, etc, etc. All the while, we send more and more aid to other countries.
I guess my question is, "Why are we aiding everyone else in the world, but are ignoring the hunger problem at home?"
What makes it ok to tell hard-working Americans that they aren't important enough to ensure every person in every house has good, nourishing, and abundant food to eat? I have personally been through some rough times. I have gone hungry so my kids could eat. I know how terrible it is to hear your child ask if there is any more food. I don't ever want to be in that position again.
We are the wealthiest nation on earth. Our farms feed the world. Yet our leaders praise themselves for all the good they do; Our corporations pat themselves on the back for all the public service they provide; Our current presidential candidates spout empty promises about bettering the lives of all Americans; Political contributors pay $20,000.00 a plate for dinners with their favorite politicians, dressing up in their finest, and making nice in order to curry future political favor.
Meanwhile, food prices are out of control, energy prices are soaring to unimaginable heights, services for those in need are constantly cut back, and Washington DC turns a blind eye as they continue searching for that next big aid package that will assist yet another country.
What's wrong with this picture?
I know that there are no quick fixes, and that this issue alone is infinitely complex. But ignoring it only makes the problem exponentially worse. We must feed our friends, neighbors, etc. Our leaders must [actually] look no further than their own constituencies to know where to send that next big aid package.
If they do not, who else in the world will send food aid to America's hungry?
Every legislative year, Congress passes multiple foreign aid packages that are intended to help varying countries feed the hungry, educate the people, create jobs, and help to stimulate economies. That's ok. I'm glad that we have the money to be able to help emerging nations get closer to self-sufficiency.
However, while we annually spend tens of billions on these foreign aid packages, Congress typically cuts back on domestic aid and services. In other words, while we feed the world, many of our own citizens go hungry day after day, or don't have adequate shelter or clothing, or quality education for their kids.
Whether the public, our States, our Congress, or even our President want to admit it, this country has what has been described as a 'rampant hunger problem.' We have the poor and lower middle class income familes who can't adequately feed themselves. They are called the working poor.
The numbers of our own citizens going hungry or who are malnourished are not known. One estimate I read puts it in the tens of millions. These folks are not just living on the street. They can be (and probably are) your neighbors, friends, work associates, church acquaintances, etc.
Our elected leaders should be ashamed that 'the world's bread basket' cannot feed its own who are struggling. Their eyes are constantly searching for ways to help other countries, but are blind to their own struggling citizenery. This very opinion is fleshed out in constant cutbacks in programs for those needing help such as vocational training, social services, food assistance, etc, etc, etc. All the while, we send more and more aid to other countries.
I guess my question is, "Why are we aiding everyone else in the world, but are ignoring the hunger problem at home?"
What makes it ok to tell hard-working Americans that they aren't important enough to ensure every person in every house has good, nourishing, and abundant food to eat? I have personally been through some rough times. I have gone hungry so my kids could eat. I know how terrible it is to hear your child ask if there is any more food. I don't ever want to be in that position again.
We are the wealthiest nation on earth. Our farms feed the world. Yet our leaders praise themselves for all the good they do; Our corporations pat themselves on the back for all the public service they provide; Our current presidential candidates spout empty promises about bettering the lives of all Americans; Political contributors pay $20,000.00 a plate for dinners with their favorite politicians, dressing up in their finest, and making nice in order to curry future political favor.
Meanwhile, food prices are out of control, energy prices are soaring to unimaginable heights, services for those in need are constantly cut back, and Washington DC turns a blind eye as they continue searching for that next big aid package that will assist yet another country.
What's wrong with this picture?
I know that there are no quick fixes, and that this issue alone is infinitely complex. But ignoring it only makes the problem exponentially worse. We must feed our friends, neighbors, etc. Our leaders must [actually] look no further than their own constituencies to know where to send that next big aid package.
If they do not, who else in the world will send food aid to America's hungry?
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
In the Olympic Spirit
For this post I thought that I'd take a break from the usual, and instead focus on the incredible spectacle going on in China. The Olympics have always been about human achievement, and the sheer will to overcome all odds in rising to the pinnacle of one's abilities. The 29th Olympiad is no exception to this millenia old endeavor.
As I have watched not just our athletes, but also those from around the world, I cannot be anything but impressed with the dedication, drive, determination, and fierce strength of will to rise to the top and be called the world's best. These men and women are truly amazing in every way, and are an inspiration to billions around the world.
Whether they take home a medal or not, these athletes have overcome tremendous odds just to be on that stage. Some are their countries lone representatives, and their nations swell with pride at seeing their athlete compete at such a grand event.
Win or lose, every competitor at this, or any other Olympiad will take with them the memories, pride, friendships, and simple joy at the incredible experience they went through. They should always be our heroes, and we should always seek to emulate the examples that they have put forth in their quest to be the best in the world.
I hope that everyone in the US, and the world, stops to watch this phenomenal display of athleticism now happening in Beijing; and that they appreciate and applaud the outstanding men and women competing on this grandest of world stages.
As I have watched not just our athletes, but also those from around the world, I cannot be anything but impressed with the dedication, drive, determination, and fierce strength of will to rise to the top and be called the world's best. These men and women are truly amazing in every way, and are an inspiration to billions around the world.
Whether they take home a medal or not, these athletes have overcome tremendous odds just to be on that stage. Some are their countries lone representatives, and their nations swell with pride at seeing their athlete compete at such a grand event.
Win or lose, every competitor at this, or any other Olympiad will take with them the memories, pride, friendships, and simple joy at the incredible experience they went through. They should always be our heroes, and we should always seek to emulate the examples that they have put forth in their quest to be the best in the world.
I hope that everyone in the US, and the world, stops to watch this phenomenal display of athleticism now happening in Beijing; and that they appreciate and applaud the outstanding men and women competing on this grandest of world stages.
Saturday, August 2, 2008
Possibly THE WORST Drivers In This Country
On my last post I alluded to the fact that I would write an upcoming post on whom I believe to possibly be the worst drivers in the country; and they reside right here in Utah.
Why do I say that? Well, besides living here for the last 6 1/2 years, I was a first hand witness to my own kids going through the process of learning to drive; and let me tell you--it wasn't pretty.
Like I alluded to in my post regarding the State Legislature, the insurance rates (auto) are among the highest in the nation. This is due to the extraordinary number of at-fault accidents in this state. By at-fault, I mean accidents that could, and should, have been avoided simply through following the rules of the road in regards to yourself, and the drivers around you.
Now, I could go on and on in illustrating why the drivers here are so awful, so I'll try to constrain myself to a few real-life stories about accidents on Utah's roads.
1) Just last week, a 23 year old woman was killed in a roll-over accident which was caused by a semi driver going too fast, as well as cutting her off when he (the truck driver) made a sudden, non-signalled lane change, thereby causing the woman (who was driving a small car) to hit the trucks tires, lose control, roll across the median and onto the other side of the freeway, and was there hit by another driver.
2) A few winters ago a woman and her daughter were killed when they were driving in the commuter lane on I-15. They were legally obeying the speed limit when a man in a pick-up truck (who was alone in the vehicle) came up behind them in the commuter lane as well. Police estimate he was traveling at least 85 mph in a 65 zone). Right when he came within inches of this womans bumper (trying to intimidate her into moving out of the commuter lane), her car hit a patch of black ice. She swerved, the truck smashed into the back of her car sending it headlong into a guardrail then onto the median.
The pick-up sped right by and never stopped to assist (luckily someone got the plate #). The mother was killed instantly, the daughter survived. But as she was making her way to the side of the freeway to get help, another car hit the same black ice, and swerved right into the girl, killing her.
3) About a year ago I was driving with my daughter along I-15 when we came up to a line of cars approaching an exit. It was a holiday weekend, so there were lots of cars waiting to exit. I was in the middle of three lanes, and a solid line of cars to my right. As I approached the point of the freeway exit, a driver (in a camper and pulling a boat) was busy doing whatever because he didn't see the car in front of him stop. Well, instead of turning out to the side of the road, he turned into my lane.
I was going 65 mph.
I saw his thoughtless maneauver and instantly did all I could to avoid hitting him. I ended up swerving (on dry pavement, luckily) across two lanes, going back and forth several times before regaining control of my car (you could see my skid marks for a few weeks!). My daughter was in tears, and I was grateful to be alive.
In all three of these instances, there was a common factor that contributed to each. Can you name it?
Ok, here it is...They were ALL preventable.
It's a fact that 98% of all physical trauma (accidents, in whatever form) is the result of 1 or more bad choices by 1 or more people. That's huge! Think about it. Statistically, out of all the trauma out there, 98 times out of 100 it could have been prevented. That's a sobering thought.
So, what makes Utah drivers so bad? There are several factors. They start with the State Legislature. They refuse to raise taxes, therefore there is less money for educational programs. The fewer taxes are received in a particular area, the less state tax allocation the school receives (or something like that). Where my kids went to High School, they got very little funding from the state. One glaring point of this is Drivers Education.
Both my kids got exactly two weeks (that's right, two whole weeks) of classroom instruction, with each class taking approximately 1 hr 15 minutes. They never opened their drivers ed manual, and the instructor barely taught anything (this, according to my kids). Then, their "range time" consisted of three sessions in a car with an instructor, each of which lasted approximately 20 minutes. That's 1 hour folks.
According to State law, the kids are supposed to have 40 hours of supervised driving time with a parent. I can say with 99.9% assurety that this never happens. Even as adamant as we were, my kids only got about 30 hours in.
After that, a 16 year old can get a license. Is anyone out there frightened? You should be; because generation after generation of drivers in this state are not properly educated on the rules of the road. Forget advanced rules, I'm talking basic, common-sense things like signalling when you are going to make a turn; What signs mean; Obeying the Speed Limit; What is your responsibility in merging onto the freeway, etc, etc, etc.
This is downright scary stuff folks! And the state turns a blind to the perpetual problem it has created. Further, they do nothing to prevent more accidents by (once again) refusing to raise tax money to hire more troopers to patrol our freeways. Which brings me to another point...State Troopers who also break the laws of the road. How often in most states will you see a trooper holding up a line of cars on a freeway because no one dares to pass them? In most states you'd never dream of passing a police vehicle for fear of being the recipient of a moving violation.
In my time in Utah, I regularly see on-duty (and off-duty) officers exceeding the speed limit as a regular matter of driving. Why should anyone go the posted speed limit when even the police don't obey that one? Drivers here speed with seeming impugnity because they know that the odds of them actually being pulled over are slim to none.
Get this one--In Salt Lake County I can actually get a ticket for driving the posted speed limit! Absolutely true. That county has an ordinance that states a car holding up the flow of traffic can receive a moving violation. This very thing happened a few years ago. The traffic flow was moving at around 75 mph (in a 65 zone), and a driver, legally obeying the federally posted Speed Limit, was pulled over and cited for impeding traffic. Can you believe that?! He got a ticket for obeying the law!!!
The city police really aren't any better. In my daily 10-minute commute to work I see traffic light violations, non-signalled turns, extremely close-up tailgating, driving through stop signs as if they weren't even there, etc, etc. When driving in a large parking lot (like at a Mall), drivers regularly zoom across the whole lot in order to get around the mall roads. They don't pay attention to anyone or anything as they go 35-45 mph or faster. I honestly don't know how many times I've been close to being involved to a T-bone accident while safely and legally driving in parking lots.
When you drive on Utah's roads, you have to be prepared to have a major catastrophe at any time. The drivers here are truly that dangerous. And no one at the local or state level seems to care one iota. I have written my elected officials, and no one has responded.
I could literally go on for paragraph after paragraph about things that drivers do on the roads in this state; and it would all be 100% true. The drivers in Utah (as a whole) are absolutely horrendous, and downright dangerous. Something needs--no, something MUST be done. How many more people will needlessly die for anyone in the state or local governments to take notice and start the change?
There are clearly no easy answers to this one, folks; but when even the men and women who are supposed to protect our roads are themselves breaking the basic driving laws, then we as a population should be very afraid for our lives every time we sit behind the steering wheel. And truthfully, I am. Every day.
(For those of you who might be wondering, I have been driving for 30 years. In all that time, I have gotten exactly ZERO moving violations, and have been involved in one accident-- which wasn't my fault...I was rear ended by a drunk driver at a stop sign.)
Why do I say that? Well, besides living here for the last 6 1/2 years, I was a first hand witness to my own kids going through the process of learning to drive; and let me tell you--it wasn't pretty.
Like I alluded to in my post regarding the State Legislature, the insurance rates (auto) are among the highest in the nation. This is due to the extraordinary number of at-fault accidents in this state. By at-fault, I mean accidents that could, and should, have been avoided simply through following the rules of the road in regards to yourself, and the drivers around you.
Now, I could go on and on in illustrating why the drivers here are so awful, so I'll try to constrain myself to a few real-life stories about accidents on Utah's roads.
1) Just last week, a 23 year old woman was killed in a roll-over accident which was caused by a semi driver going too fast, as well as cutting her off when he (the truck driver) made a sudden, non-signalled lane change, thereby causing the woman (who was driving a small car) to hit the trucks tires, lose control, roll across the median and onto the other side of the freeway, and was there hit by another driver.
2) A few winters ago a woman and her daughter were killed when they were driving in the commuter lane on I-15. They were legally obeying the speed limit when a man in a pick-up truck (who was alone in the vehicle) came up behind them in the commuter lane as well. Police estimate he was traveling at least 85 mph in a 65 zone). Right when he came within inches of this womans bumper (trying to intimidate her into moving out of the commuter lane), her car hit a patch of black ice. She swerved, the truck smashed into the back of her car sending it headlong into a guardrail then onto the median.
The pick-up sped right by and never stopped to assist (luckily someone got the plate #). The mother was killed instantly, the daughter survived. But as she was making her way to the side of the freeway to get help, another car hit the same black ice, and swerved right into the girl, killing her.
3) About a year ago I was driving with my daughter along I-15 when we came up to a line of cars approaching an exit. It was a holiday weekend, so there were lots of cars waiting to exit. I was in the middle of three lanes, and a solid line of cars to my right. As I approached the point of the freeway exit, a driver (in a camper and pulling a boat) was busy doing whatever because he didn't see the car in front of him stop. Well, instead of turning out to the side of the road, he turned into my lane.
I was going 65 mph.
I saw his thoughtless maneauver and instantly did all I could to avoid hitting him. I ended up swerving (on dry pavement, luckily) across two lanes, going back and forth several times before regaining control of my car (you could see my skid marks for a few weeks!). My daughter was in tears, and I was grateful to be alive.
In all three of these instances, there was a common factor that contributed to each. Can you name it?
Ok, here it is...They were ALL preventable.
It's a fact that 98% of all physical trauma (accidents, in whatever form) is the result of 1 or more bad choices by 1 or more people. That's huge! Think about it. Statistically, out of all the trauma out there, 98 times out of 100 it could have been prevented. That's a sobering thought.
So, what makes Utah drivers so bad? There are several factors. They start with the State Legislature. They refuse to raise taxes, therefore there is less money for educational programs. The fewer taxes are received in a particular area, the less state tax allocation the school receives (or something like that). Where my kids went to High School, they got very little funding from the state. One glaring point of this is Drivers Education.
Both my kids got exactly two weeks (that's right, two whole weeks) of classroom instruction, with each class taking approximately 1 hr 15 minutes. They never opened their drivers ed manual, and the instructor barely taught anything (this, according to my kids). Then, their "range time" consisted of three sessions in a car with an instructor, each of which lasted approximately 20 minutes. That's 1 hour folks.
According to State law, the kids are supposed to have 40 hours of supervised driving time with a parent. I can say with 99.9% assurety that this never happens. Even as adamant as we were, my kids only got about 30 hours in.
After that, a 16 year old can get a license. Is anyone out there frightened? You should be; because generation after generation of drivers in this state are not properly educated on the rules of the road. Forget advanced rules, I'm talking basic, common-sense things like signalling when you are going to make a turn; What signs mean; Obeying the Speed Limit; What is your responsibility in merging onto the freeway, etc, etc, etc.
This is downright scary stuff folks! And the state turns a blind to the perpetual problem it has created. Further, they do nothing to prevent more accidents by (once again) refusing to raise tax money to hire more troopers to patrol our freeways. Which brings me to another point...State Troopers who also break the laws of the road. How often in most states will you see a trooper holding up a line of cars on a freeway because no one dares to pass them? In most states you'd never dream of passing a police vehicle for fear of being the recipient of a moving violation.
In my time in Utah, I regularly see on-duty (and off-duty) officers exceeding the speed limit as a regular matter of driving. Why should anyone go the posted speed limit when even the police don't obey that one? Drivers here speed with seeming impugnity because they know that the odds of them actually being pulled over are slim to none.
Get this one--In Salt Lake County I can actually get a ticket for driving the posted speed limit! Absolutely true. That county has an ordinance that states a car holding up the flow of traffic can receive a moving violation. This very thing happened a few years ago. The traffic flow was moving at around 75 mph (in a 65 zone), and a driver, legally obeying the federally posted Speed Limit, was pulled over and cited for impeding traffic. Can you believe that?! He got a ticket for obeying the law!!!
The city police really aren't any better. In my daily 10-minute commute to work I see traffic light violations, non-signalled turns, extremely close-up tailgating, driving through stop signs as if they weren't even there, etc, etc. When driving in a large parking lot (like at a Mall), drivers regularly zoom across the whole lot in order to get around the mall roads. They don't pay attention to anyone or anything as they go 35-45 mph or faster. I honestly don't know how many times I've been close to being involved to a T-bone accident while safely and legally driving in parking lots.
When you drive on Utah's roads, you have to be prepared to have a major catastrophe at any time. The drivers here are truly that dangerous. And no one at the local or state level seems to care one iota. I have written my elected officials, and no one has responded.
I could literally go on for paragraph after paragraph about things that drivers do on the roads in this state; and it would all be 100% true. The drivers in Utah (as a whole) are absolutely horrendous, and downright dangerous. Something needs--no, something MUST be done. How many more people will needlessly die for anyone in the state or local governments to take notice and start the change?
There are clearly no easy answers to this one, folks; but when even the men and women who are supposed to protect our roads are themselves breaking the basic driving laws, then we as a population should be very afraid for our lives every time we sit behind the steering wheel. And truthfully, I am. Every day.
(For those of you who might be wondering, I have been driving for 30 years. In all that time, I have gotten exactly ZERO moving violations, and have been involved in one accident-- which wasn't my fault...I was rear ended by a drunk driver at a stop sign.)
Effective Goverment In Action...?
Alright...I'm going to give up a little personal info here. But first, a question: What would you call a State Legislature that works approximately 15 weeks per year, is unpaid, and wastes most of its first 13 weeks endlessly debating bills, taxes, budgets, etc, then crams into two weeks what should have been done over the previous 13?
In Utah, its called Effective Government In Action--or, I should say, inaction. That's right. I've lived in Utah (unfortunately) for 6 1/2 long years. Enough time to know that the State Legislature is a joke of a "Legislative Body." The endless debates do indeed suddenly cease somewhere in the 13th week, then every Representative and Senator puts as many riders on as many bills as they can, and finally reach the end of their yearly session; each heading back to their regular jobs, knowing that they did their best.
Do you see what's wrong with this picture? If not, let me give you a little more info. Most of each years' session is filled in budgetary discussion. New laws are passed that have no real effect on everyday lives in Utah, while REAL issues are never addressed.
For instance, the Legislature (I don't think) has any real oversight on the state contracts issued to road repair work. There is a stretch on I-15 which is filled with pot holes. Repair crews (plural) head out, patch it up, then return (literally) 3-4 months later to repair the same holes. This has gone on the whole 6 1/2 years I have lived here! The state will pay the contractor multiple times for a repair job that could (and should) be done once. Why don't they? Where is the oversight?
The drivers in this state are perhaps the worst I have ever been around. (I've got a whole other blog I'll be doing on this, but let me touch on this briefly). Why? There are multiple reasons, so let me just start here. The lifelong citizens of this state are so paranoid about raising taxes ("I don't want the governmint tellin ME what to do!") that the State doesn't have enough $$ too pay for the much needed law enforcement increases. I wrote my State Representative and Senator about this issue, as well as the Governor. I got NOTHING of a response from any of them. They don't seem to care. A sad statement.
It's a fact that Utah has one of the highest per capita auto insurance rates in the country. Why? Because there are so many at-fault accidents. Now, I know that increased law enforcement wouldn't necessarily decrease the at-fault accidents significantly, but increased presence would indeed help to lower the number.
Then finally, here's the real doozie. The Legislature, in its infinite and misguided wisdom, in order to meet the budget, has decided that all State offices will have a 4-day work-work. Further, there is discussion that this will include the public schools! Instead of raising taxes to benefit education, the Legislature might essentially tell every parent that their children's future isn't important enough.
Additionally, the very concept creates other issues such as daycare for working parents who will suddenly have to either stay home (and miss out on income), or pay extra monies for another day of childcare. What non-core subjects will be lost because there is no longer enough time to teach everything (arts, music, etc)? Or how about the product vendors for all the school districts? How many workers would they have to lay-off in order to meet their budgets? How many taxes will be lost because the schools are closed one extra day?
How will one of the poorest funded educational systems in this country fare when an additional day of instruction is lost because the Legislature is afraid to raise taxes?
The Utah State Legislature is a joke. It won't do what it MUST in order to meet the basic needs of its citizens because it's too afraid that a pro-tax strategy will lose their next elections. When will they wake up an realize that the constituancy of this state deserve better than the "best" they (the Legislature) have done?
Taxes can indeed go too far; but when the basics of education and infrastructure are marginalized, then we have a prime example of government 'inaction.'
In Utah, its called Effective Government In Action--or, I should say, inaction. That's right. I've lived in Utah (unfortunately) for 6 1/2 long years. Enough time to know that the State Legislature is a joke of a "Legislative Body." The endless debates do indeed suddenly cease somewhere in the 13th week, then every Representative and Senator puts as many riders on as many bills as they can, and finally reach the end of their yearly session; each heading back to their regular jobs, knowing that they did their best.
Do you see what's wrong with this picture? If not, let me give you a little more info. Most of each years' session is filled in budgetary discussion. New laws are passed that have no real effect on everyday lives in Utah, while REAL issues are never addressed.
For instance, the Legislature (I don't think) has any real oversight on the state contracts issued to road repair work. There is a stretch on I-15 which is filled with pot holes. Repair crews (plural) head out, patch it up, then return (literally) 3-4 months later to repair the same holes. This has gone on the whole 6 1/2 years I have lived here! The state will pay the contractor multiple times for a repair job that could (and should) be done once. Why don't they? Where is the oversight?
The drivers in this state are perhaps the worst I have ever been around. (I've got a whole other blog I'll be doing on this, but let me touch on this briefly). Why? There are multiple reasons, so let me just start here. The lifelong citizens of this state are so paranoid about raising taxes ("I don't want the governmint tellin ME what to do!") that the State doesn't have enough $$ too pay for the much needed law enforcement increases. I wrote my State Representative and Senator about this issue, as well as the Governor. I got NOTHING of a response from any of them. They don't seem to care. A sad statement.
It's a fact that Utah has one of the highest per capita auto insurance rates in the country. Why? Because there are so many at-fault accidents. Now, I know that increased law enforcement wouldn't necessarily decrease the at-fault accidents significantly, but increased presence would indeed help to lower the number.
Then finally, here's the real doozie. The Legislature, in its infinite and misguided wisdom, in order to meet the budget, has decided that all State offices will have a 4-day work-work. Further, there is discussion that this will include the public schools! Instead of raising taxes to benefit education, the Legislature might essentially tell every parent that their children's future isn't important enough.
Additionally, the very concept creates other issues such as daycare for working parents who will suddenly have to either stay home (and miss out on income), or pay extra monies for another day of childcare. What non-core subjects will be lost because there is no longer enough time to teach everything (arts, music, etc)? Or how about the product vendors for all the school districts? How many workers would they have to lay-off in order to meet their budgets? How many taxes will be lost because the schools are closed one extra day?
How will one of the poorest funded educational systems in this country fare when an additional day of instruction is lost because the Legislature is afraid to raise taxes?
The Utah State Legislature is a joke. It won't do what it MUST in order to meet the basic needs of its citizens because it's too afraid that a pro-tax strategy will lose their next elections. When will they wake up an realize that the constituancy of this state deserve better than the "best" they (the Legislature) have done?
Taxes can indeed go too far; but when the basics of education and infrastructure are marginalized, then we have a prime example of government 'inaction.'
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