Loser: A Georgia company has redefined bad taste by taking parts of the fallen World Trade Center and making them into commemorate medallions. These items are selling on the Internet and at collectible stores for $25 apiece, according to the Associated Press.
"Ghoulish," was how a relative of one of the victims of Sept. 11 described it. We would add "crass" and "disgusting" to that list.
The company that makes these medallions says it has been hurting because of lost business since the attacks. Its president asks whether it would be better if the steel went overseas and ended up in a soup can or the fender of a car. The answer is yes, simply because it wouldn't be directly identifiable, and it wouldn't be a blatant attempt to make a profit off the tragedy.
Winner: According to a poll commissioned for Salt Lake County, residents still favor the zoo, arts and park tax, otherwise known as the ZAP tax. About 82 percent said they support it. That's good news. Voters supported establishing the tax, which dedicates 1 percent of the sales tax to help fund recreation and arts programs, as well as the Hogle Zoo. They must vote again in 2006 on whether to continue the tax, which is due to lapse at that time.
Meanwhile, residents also said they would support fees to start a curbside recycling program and for disposal of yard waste. This shows that people are concerned about the environment and about their own quality of life. Interestingly, however, a majority of those surveyed would not support giving any more money toward the jail. Maybe inmates could instead be kept busy picking up trash.
Loser: The economic downturn has affected many parts of society. Now, it appears Utah's allocation of highway funds from the federal government may suffer. Gasoline tax revenues are down, simply because people are driving less. That could cost Utah about $50 million per year. The state normally receives about $200 million annually in federal highway funds.
Meanwhile, some signs this week indicated the economy may be rebounding. Perhaps this dip in revenue will begin paving the way again soon. That would be good news, especially for the folks in Davis County who are waiting for the new, lawsuit-weary Legacy Parkway.
Winner: It looks as if the Stanley Cup will be coming to West Valley City, after all. A few months ago, a deal to use the Hale Center Theater as an NHL reception center during the Olympics appeared to have been cross-checked to oblivion. Now the deal is back on.
The city isn't sure whether it can make much money off the displays, which will include parts of the Hockey Hall of Fame. But anyone who visits will benefit greatly. Admission will be free, and famous hockey players are expected to show up from time to time.