"I was thrilled we got $5 million for teacher training in science and math and, hopefully, language," Huntsman said. "I will forever be grateful to the people in this state who call themselves teachers."

Utah must also find a way to bridge the health care gap to help those who are uninsured, he said.

"I see no reason, in a state like ours that is full of caring, compassionate people, why there aren't more (health care) options available," said Huntsman. "It means the health care companies are not doing what they should be doing. We need less comprehensive options."

The governor said he awakens each day to ask himself a simple question.

"What are we doing to make sure the taxpayers of this great state are getting their money's worth?" Huntsman said. "I'm talking about meaningful services. If you hear about a cut I make now and then, it's only because I'm doing what I think is right for our state and relevant for the 21st century."

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E-mail: nperkins@desnews.com