"We want this to be focused on immigration, we don't want to mix it up with the war," Yapias said. "I believe immigration is the biggest issue, they believe the war is the biggest issue. Those who come to our rally will come because they believe immigration is an important issue."

Utah Republicans ready red carpet

Local Republicans have caught the rally fever sweeping the state in anticipation of President Bush's visit next week.

While a much publicized anti-Bush protest is scheduled the day Bush speaks to the American Legion convention at the Salt Palace, Republicans plan to gather later in the day at City Hall for speeches and a rally.

State Republican Party Chairman Joe Cannon said last year's anti-Bush rally when the president was here at another veterans convention projected "the wrong image of Utah." He said Utah is "Bush country" and the Aug. 30 rally, beginning at 5:30 p.m., will "thank (Bush) for taking the time to visit our great state."

---

E-mail: dbulkeley@desnews.com