The bottom had fallen out of Yeltsin's popularity and political support by the time he resigned in 1999. Browning characterized Yeltsin as bold in initiating change but unable to manage it day to day.

Yeltsin's first prime minister, Yegor Gaidar, was mesmerized by a visit to Utah, said Rusty Butler, director of the Utah Russia Institute, which is hosted by Utah Valley State College. "When he saw the wonderful things here in Utah, he was very much in favor of relations with Utah."

Gov. Mike Leavitt helped orchestrate the creation of the institute, which promotes business connections and cultural ties — "friendly relations," Butler said.

Post-Olympic Games, the institute saw young Utah athletes competing in Moscow in 2003 and a similar contingent of Russian youths competing in Utah in 2004.

Exchanges continue with Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr.'s office involved in a cultural event to help Moscow celebrate its 860th anniversary this year.

"It all shows the link that Russia and Utah have started with Boris Yeltsin's tenure and with his blessing. He was kept abreast of things as they unfolded, so he knew what was happening. He knew what was unfolding between Russia and the state of Utah," Butler said.

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