The Culture Fix

On most days I pick up the Salt Lake Tribune in much the same way as I pick up dog poop in my yard: Holding my breath, eyes averted, and body tensed, all in a conditioned reflex to the usual gut-wrenching complications associated with such a task. Occasionally I'll spy an offending mass from across the yard and trudge over only to discover it is a leaf or a stick. My body relaxes, breath returns, and I pause for a moment to savor my good fortune.

A quick scan of the Trib this morning revealed two signs that the cultural evolution of this state occasionally moves forward.

Exhibit A - Mormons for Obama. I realize it's only one person and that for every Obama vote Huckabee, McCain, and Paul will receive 100. Eisenhower will probably get more write in votes in Utah. Still, Mormons for Obama? That's news, man.

Exhibit B - State Senator Chris Buttars, of "This baby is black, I'll tell you. It's a dark, ugly thing" fame was stripped of his Chairmanship of the Senate Judicial Conformation Panel. No official reason was given, presumably because there were too many to choose from. Unfortunately he hails from a district that would happily elect David Duke to the office if he would only accept the Restored Gospel®. Buttars' senate seat remains secure.

So I'm skipping along thinking that I might get through the paper without incident when I stumbled barefoot into a festering mound of Great Dane excreta:

Governor Offers Deal to Lawmakers Over Alcopops. I cannot find the words to adequately describe the sheer insanity of those who rule this fair state so you will have to read the article for yourself. You might want to pour 2.75 ounces of your favorite adult beverage before doing so.

As for me, I'm off to the shower.