Mike Morley

These beautiful valleys we now call home, this thriving economy, this pleasant place to live has been carved out of the desert with hard work, sweat, and tears, a legacy left to us by those hardy pioneers who entered these valleys 158 years ago. In our lives today, it is easy to become complacent, to convince ourselves there is really nothing substantial one person can do to change for the better our environment. We need pioneers for our present day.

Recently the Utah legislature returned to their historic chambers after the refurbishment of the State Capitol Building. The history of the Utah Constitution may not be that well-known, so indulge me to share the unique journey to statehood of this great state, Utah, with you.

What is the real meaning of liberty in our lives today? Liberty is choosing our form and place of worship, or none at all. Liberty means education and safety for our children. Liberty is the essence of America, it is as much a part of us as the water we drink and the air we breathe. But, we need to thank our heroes for this liberty. Who are they?

Kahlil Gibran wrote: "When you give of yourself, you truly give." Should we then pay higher taxes, as called on, to enable government to help the poor and needy? Is that Charity?