Some highlights and lowlights of 2007

For political junkies, 2007 was a big fix, with fascinating action both in Utah and nationally. Here are some of the year's political highlights and lowlights.

Pignanelli: Most heartwarming political event of the holiday season: For years, community and political leaders remain concerned over the religious divide in Salt Lake City. But the last 30 days witnessed a true miracle in Sugar House: Mormons and non-Mormons holding hands in a noble cause ... preventing the relocation of a store that sells plastic genitalia. The residents did not object to the store itself (which sells products of a sexual nature), just did not want it in their neighborhood. Although the law could not stop Blue Boutique, everyone was a winner. The objecting neighbors now enjoy an enhanced sense of community and the Blue Boutique can advertise another example of "bringing people together."

Most encouraging success: "It is amazing what you can accomplish if you do not care who gets the credit" is a famous maxim of President Ronald Reagan (although President Harry Truman was the original author). This rarely practiced rule of politics was showcased this year. Everyone agreed the noise and vibration from trains traveling through Salt Lake City's west-side neighborhoods were a horrible nuisance. A number of individuals worked together and garnered the necessary resources to realign the railroad. Minority Leader Ralph Becker and Speaker Greg Curtis deserve greater recognition for their efforts, as does the Salt Lake City Council. The generosity of Union Pacific Railroad was a critical element. Yet, few insiders know the true architect of this endeavor. Unfortunately, there will be no awards or honors for the railroad's lobbyist, Doug Foxley, who engineered this achievement behind the scenes. Doug knew it was the right thing to do and proved the Truman/Reagan corollary. I am proud to call Doug both a business partner and a good friend.

Most discouraging (and disgusting) event: Former Arkansas governor and presidential aspirant Mike Huckabee is a dangerous man. He is a charismatic, intelligent, witty, religious tyrant. The Christmas commercial he aired in selected markets is an insidious attack on the U.S. Constitution. (Remember: Our Founding Fathers/mothers rejected a religious test for office.) During his holiday greeting (where he mentions Jesus Christ), the bookshelf in the background is lighted in such a manner to emphasize a cross. This is no accident, and anyone who claims otherwise is either a fool or disingenuous. Further, the ultimate targets of this bigoted advertisement are Mormons — especially Mitt Romney. Millions are praying Iowans reject this affront to our national conscience.