La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) Speaker Summaries 2024

LSDM Speakers

# of Speakers: 86

January 2024

Carolyn Phippen, Candidate (R) for US Senate, Utah, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) 16 January 2024, via Zoom.
Spending reforms on entitlements won't work sans success stories on cutting discretionary spending.

John "Frugal" Dougall, candidate US Congress, Utah 3, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM), 17 January 2024, via zoom.
Consider me a budget proctologist!

J. R. Bird, Candidate (R) for US Congress, Utah 3, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) 30 January 2024, via Zoom.
Energy. I'm passionate about it. I've lived energy every day of my life. Eastern Utah has seen repeated energy boom and bust cycles. When energy is down, it can have devastating effects on the community. I support DJT's goal of obtaining US energy independence by pumping more oil.

Millburn, NJ Citizens. Milburn activists, Eric Osserman, Jerry Kung, and Jean Pasternak speak to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) 31 January 2024 - via Zoom.
Americans like winners. If they think you'll win, they'll join the effort.

February 2024

Phil Lyman, candidate (R) for Governor of Utah speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) 06 February 2024. Via Zoom.
I spoke to some vets a week ago. I thanked them for their service, and I said that the best way we could pay them back is to live free. A republican form of government is not that hard. It's pretty simple. It's just that there are so many schemers, and they are always ten steps ahead of people of goodwill. So, I love being in this fight, because I've got kids. I've got grandkids, and I love this state.

Renai Bodley Miller, GM KPCW, speaks to La Societe Deux Magots (LSDM) 07 February 2024 via Zoom.
I think LSDM is a microcosm of what makes this community so great and a great venue for local radio. Information is key. We know there is more polarization than ever these days. Polarization can be mitigated when the community has a local source of daily news that people can trust. It makes a community stronger. Elected officials are held more accountable and they tend to spend taxpayers' money more wisely when there's a local news source reporting on them. Citizens are more engaged; voter participation is higher. And there is just more kindness in a community when people have this common ground of a local news source.

The Kid, 'Cake, Joey Lukrich. Joey Lukrich speaks to La Société Deux Magots, 08 February 2024, via Zoom
I appreciate you guys. 'Cake started all this for me and I'm very grateful. You guys taking the time to let me talk like this means a lot to me. Now, I'm just trying to learn and create my own path in life. Talking to so many successful people is humbling. I appreciate all your encouragement. Encouragement is so important in life.

Carson Jorgensen, candidate (R) for governor, state of Utah, speaks to La Sociéte Deux Magots (LSDM 13 February 2024, via Zoom.
Carson voiced his criticisms of the federal government's overreach into state rights, the increasing reliance of Utah on federal funding, and the negative impact of federal programs on Utah's education and public lands. He concluded by announcing his run for Governor and expressing his concerns about the deepening dependency on the federal government under the current administration.

Aldy Milliken, Executive Director of the Kimball Arts Center, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) 14 February 2024, via Zoom.
What makes a good artwork or artist? • Clarity, originality and creativity • Communications and expression • Context, impact and relevance • Exhibition history -museums, public art, curators • Critical references, art publications • Other artist references • Museum and collector collections • Gallery representation

Lyda Bigelow, Academic Director, Master of Business Creation Program (MBC), University of Utah, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) 20 February 2024 via Zoom.
We've seen successes coming out of MBC that were developed while the founders were in our program. We've also seen founders come to MBC with an idea that they have developed into a successful business venture. There are many variations of the entrepreneurial story. Our results are good.

John Johnson, Utah State Senator, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) 22 February 2024 - via Zoom
"Last Wednesday (20 February 2024), a committee of the Utah state senate voted down a bill, S.B. 226, that would have restored classic liberal education — including the history of Western civilization, the great books of Western philosophy and literature, traditional American history, civics, and literature, the great economic thinkers, masterpieces of Western art, as well as an introduction to non-Western cultures — to a place of centrality at the University of Utah." National Review.

Nathan Rafferty, CEO Ski Utah, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) 27 February 2024. Via Zoom.
Lee raised concerns about the increasing costs of skiing, despite the high income of many skiers. Nathan reassured that the skiing industry is still growing and that the value proposition for committed skiers has increased with the introduction of season passes.

Natalia Neneman, eventing equestrienne, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) 28 February 2024, via Zoom.
Natalia shared her personal experience, mentioning that she averages riding 8 or 9 horses a day and has had to refocus on her fitness regime after suffering some injuries. Jack Rubin highlighted the sport's unique appeal as one of the last bastions of pure amateurism, with no monetary incentives.

Erin Ferguson, President, Save People Save Wildlife, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM), 29 February 2024 - Via Zoom.
“Depending on the species concerned, the type of fencing, and whether safe crossing opportunities are provided, wildlife fencing may reduce the number of WVCs 80–99 percent. It is important to note, however, that these reductions were obtained where wildlife fencing was used in combination with wildlife overpasses and/or wildlife underpasses. If safe crossing opportunities are not provided for, or if they are too few, too small or too far apart, animals are more likely to break through the wildlife fence, reducing the effectiveness of the wildlife fencing.”Wildlife-Vehicle Collision Reduction Study: Report To Congress /Publication Number: FHWA-HRT-08-034Date: August 2008

March 2024

LSDM Friday Colloquium, 01 March 2024. Wasatch Bagel Suprise (and welcome) guest, Carolyn Phippen, candidate (R) for US Senate (Utah).
I can win. I'm going the convention route... no signature gathering. I can win the party's nomination with a 60% win in the convention vote. I can win the primary given the more numerous than normal number of candidates on the ballot who "buy their way in" to the primary via the signature gathering route.

Rachel Terry, candidate (R) for Utah Attorney General, speaks to La Société Deux Magots, LSDM - 05 March 2024, via Zoom.
...Rachel discussed public lands, with a particular focus on the actions of Phil Lyman, a gubernatorial candidate from San Juan County who had challenged federal overreach. Rachel explained the role of the Attorney General's office in legal battles with the federal government related to public lands, highlighting that they are currently involved in 60 ongoing cases. She emphasized that the state of Utah should have the authority to decide what industries are environmentally friendly, not the Department of Interior.

Dan Lemaitre, Chairman and CEO, BlueWind Medical, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) 12 March 2024 - via Zoom.
Revi empowers you to deliver ongoing treatment—at a convenient time and place —by wearing the lightweight Revi Wearable around your ankle to wirelessly activate the Implant.

Chandler H. Tanner, candidate (R) US Senate, Utah, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) - 14 March 2024 via Zoom.
Controlling the border should be a matter of top priority.

Zac Wilson, candidate (R) for US Congress, Utah 3, speaks to LSDM. Wasatch Bagel. 19 March 2024.
Debt/deficit number one issue over the next twenty years.

Mike Kennedy, candidate (R) for US Congress, Utah 3, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) 20 March 2024 - Via Zoom.
I'm now the front runner. I'm calling all 1100 delegates. My Utah Senate district contains 20% of the voters in Utah 3. I have a brand. I've taken six months off work to campaign for this job. I believe there will be three to five candidates for Utah 3 in the June primary. A plurality vote of 32% will win the race.

Brent Orrin Hatch, candidate (R) for US Senate, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) 21 March 2024 via Zoom.
Governments should reduce spending as one key way to help reduce inflation. The Biden Administration, Democrats, and left-leaning Republicans seem addicted to increased spending. This has to stop.

Mark Hamlin (vest), Member Board of Trustees, Hillsdale College, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) 22 March 2024, in person at Wasatch Bagel, Park City, UT.
Hillsdale is unique. Takes no dollars from any government... federal, state or municipal. Hillsdale is not beholden to government quid pro quos....

Rory Measelle, Masters Degree candidate at Courtauld Institute in London, UK, speaks to La Societe Deux Magots (LSDM) 26 March 2024 via Zoom (from London, UK).
Rory, who has a background in art business and is currently pursuing a master's degree, provided an overview of the art market's (principally oils) size of around $60 billion annually, its concentration in specific areas, and the shift in its epicenter from London to China.

Tim Sheehy, Sole candidate (R) for US Senate, Montana, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) 27 March 2024. Via Zoom.
He emphasized the need for honest discussions about fundamental issues affecting the future of the country, including the border crisis, immigration, fatherlessness, and inflation.

April 2024

Chris Herrod, Candidate (R) for US Congress (Utah 3), speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM), 03 April 2024, via Zoom.
Lastly, he expressed his concerns about multiple global threats, particularly China, and suggested that the world should support Ukraine with weapons to prevent further expansion of China's influence.

Kathryn Dahlin. Candidate for US Congress, Utah 3, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) 11 April 2024.
Kathryn emphasized the importance of addressing the growing national debt, suggesting measures such as raising the retirement age and increasing the tax cap for higher earners.

Colby Jenkins, US Army Colonel (ret), candidate for US Congress, Utah (2) speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM), 24 April 2024 via Zoom.
A contrast was drawn between Colby Jenkins' position against, and his opponent Celeste Malloy's support, for the renewal of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act.

May 2024

Steve White, Ph D, President 21 C International, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) 01 May 2024, via Zoom
Modern Biblical Training for Pastors in Developing Nations

US Air Force Brigadier General (ret) Chris "Mookie" Walker, candidate for US Congress, West Virginia 2, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) 07 May 2024, via Zoom
Chris Walker grew up middle class, his dad an electronics technician and his mom a nurse. They were first generation Americans who became citizens the proper way. Those values led him to the United States Air Force Academy, forty years in uniform and thousands of hours flying across the world. He saw combat and deployed to nearly every continent on the planet, from Khobar Towers to Mogadishu to Baghdad. Then, he led West Virginia's sons and daughters as a commander of our Air National Guard.

Heather Higgins, CEO, Independent Women's Voice, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) Topic: The GOP Challenge: Abortion as a 2024 Campaign Issue. 09 May 2024. Via Zoom
The left’s argument against the GOP is based not on what candidates say but against what the GOP might do once they have the votes/power, as if to say, “Don’t trust them.” Their theme is that what GOP candidates say now is irrelevant. Conservative rhetoric and actions (e.g., a 6-week bill where there was already a 15-week bill) are fodder to reinforce the left’s contention.

Trillitye Paullin, Cofounder/CEO, Free to Feed, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) 14 May 2024 - via Zoom.
Daggett noted that Trill's role as a new mother, her scientific research experience, her education, and the discipline that she experienced in the military positioned her perfectly to tackle the problem of childhood food allergies.

Casimir A. Yost, Senior Fellow, Georgetown University, School of Foreign Service. Speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) 16 May 2024 - Via Zoom.
Casimir expressed his belief that the US's global leadership had taken a hit due to former President Trump's denial of his electoral loss and subsequent attempts to undermine the peaceful transfer of power.

Megan McKenna, Candidate for Summit County (UT) Council, Seat C, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) 21 May 2024, via Zoom.
Megan emphasized her platform centered around sustainability, affordability, and responsible development.

Case Lawrence, Candidate for US Congress, Utah 3, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) 23 May 2024, via Zoom.
He expressed his intention to pursue a seat on the Energy and Commerce Committee in the House, emphasizing his understanding of the economy and his commitment to representing the interests of Utah.

Thomas Cooke, Candidate for Summit County Council, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) 28 May 2024, Via Zoom.
“If we don’t sustain a community our kids can afford to return to one day, then we have failed them. We will also have failed them if they return to a Summit County so over-built and stripped of its natural wonders that they don’t recognize it.”

Jim Byron, President, The Richard Nixon Foundation, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) 29 May 2024, Via Zoom.
Jim Byron discussed the history and recent renovation of the Nixon Presidential Library and Museum, highlighting its unique features and the extensive exhibits covering Nixon's life and presidency.

Cole Bunzel, Fellow, Hoover Institution, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) via zoom. 30 May 2024. Topic: Saudi Arabia: Today and Tomorrow.
Cole Bunzel highlighted the country's shift away from its conservative Islamic law towards a more modern and diversified society, with the reforms being spearheaded by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

June 2024

Stewart Peay, Candidate, Utah 3, US Congress, speaks to La Societe Deux Magots (LSDM) 04 June 2024, via Zook.
He identified the deficit, debt, immigration, and national security issues as the most pressing national concerns.

Annie Peters, President and CEO, Pet Partners, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) 05 May 2024, Via Zoom.
Founded in 1977, Pet Partners is the leader in improving human health and well-being through the human-animal bond.

Jerry Rao, Indian businessman, columnist and author, speaks to La Societe Deux Magots (LSDM), 06 June 2024. from Mumbai, via Zoom.
Jerry also discussed India's continued support for peace in Ukraine and its close relationship with the US, driven by the shared interest in countering China. He predicted that India's economic growth rate would likely return to a more sustainable level of around 7%, and that efforts to control inflation would continue.

Jeff Zeman, Staff Attorney, Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE) speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) 11 June 2024, via Zoom. Note: AI assisted notetaker is fallible. Mistakes are his. Jeff Zeman is welcome to make corrections/clarifications to these notes.
Jeff examined the historical development of qualified immunity, highlighting that it was meant to protect officials acting in good faith but has evolved into a significant burden for plaintiffs intending to sue government officials for constitutional violations.

Glenn Wright, candidate (D) for US Congress, Utah 3, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) 12 June 2024, at Wasatch Bagel.
We need to elect officials who will support greater density. We need elected officials who will stand up to the NIMBYs.

Eileen Gallagher, candidate Park City School Board, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) 13 June 2024 via Zoom.
She expressed her motivation for seeking an elected position, driven by her desire to address issues such as lack of communication, harassment and intolerance, and poor management of public funds within the school district.

Dan Glasser, Park City School Board candidate, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) 20 June 2024 - Via Zoom.
Dan emphasized his commitment to improving transparency, fiscal responsibility, accountability, and support for educators and students. He criticized the School Board's lack of communication and transparency, citing several recent issues and lawsuits. Dan stressed his belief in active participation and volunteering in the community, and his obligation to be available to the public, address decisions, and convince his constituency that he was the right choice.

Dr. Mike Kennedy, candidate for US Congress, Utah-3, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) 21 June 2024 - Wasatch Bagel, Park City, UT.
LSDM: When I was running for state senator, I attended an event where your teenage son gave a talk. I can say that you and your wife must be great parents. You can be very proud of that boy. MK: The most honorable position in life is to be a father. We have eight kids. Our family gathers to read scriptures once a day. I have a heart-to-heart talk with each of my kids once a week. We have a family night every Monday.

Richard Garlish, President of Rocky Mountain Power, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) 25 June 2024, via Zoom.
RG pointed out that while renewables and advanced nuclear have their benefits, they are not yet advanced enough to replace dispatchable energy entirely. He anticipated that dispatchable energy would continue to be necessary for the next five to ten years, or potentially longer.

Nicole Stewart and Wendy Thomas of Saucedo Futbol Club speak to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM). 26 June 2024. Wasatch Bagel, Park City, UT.
Over half of the members of the Park City High School soccer team played on SFC teams.

July 2024

Gregg Simonds, Environmental Consultant, Rancher, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) 02 July 2024, Via Zoom
He highlighted the importance of remote sensing and the use of unique methods to study land use changes, and also the value of controlled grazing in nurturing the land.

Heather Higgins, CEO, Independent Women's Voice, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) 03 July 2024, via Zoom.
The group also observed a significant shift in the betting markets for the presidential race, with Michelle Obama's odds improving rapidly.

Zac Wilson, Financial Services Professional and former candidate (R) for US Congress, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM), 09 July 2024 via Zoom
Zac voiced concern about the reluctance of many Utah residents to engage in political discussions due to a desire to maintain community harmony, warning that this approach could lead to a gradual shift in the state's political stance.

Canice Harte, Summit County, UT Councilman, speaks to La Societe Deux Magots (LSDM) 18 July 2024 - via Zoom.
Canice discussed a new sales tax proposed by the state, the emergency services tax, which the county is considering to fund its emergency services. Canice explained that the tax would offset the impacts of tourism and that the council is gathering information to help residents make informed decisions.

Pat O'Connell, Alternate Delegate to the Republican National Convention, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) via Zoom. 23 July 2024.
Pat predicted that the upcoming Republican campaign would not significantly alter the race, with strongly supporting states remaining so and the focus being on closely contested states. He also anticipated a slight increase in the polls for Kamala but believed Trump would ultimately win over Harris.

Ari Ionnedes, Candidate (R) for Summit County Council, speaks to La Sociéte Deux Magots (LSDM) 24 July 2024 - via Zoom
He also addressed concerns about inequitable property assessments, suggesting that the issue stemmed from a lack of resources and technology, rather than personnel. Ari highlighted two main problems: automatic blank assessments due to a lack of input and inadequate data from the county's provider for High Valley Transit. He emphasized the need for improved processes, access to the right data, and a compassionate approach to resolve these issues and improve service delivery.

Rebecca Ward, Park City, UT Planning Director, speaks to La Sociéte Deux Magots (LSDM) 25 July 2024, via Zoom.
Rebecca proposed solutions such as regional satellite parking, a bus rapid transit system, and improved pathway systems to reduce car traffic.

Bill Thek, Mayor, Kemmerer, WY and Brian Muir, City Manager, Kemmerer, WY, speak to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM), Kemmer, WY City Park, 30 July 2024.
Two years ago, we thought Kemmerer was dying. We are dependent on a coal fired plant for employment and the future for coal energy seemed bleak. With the June 2024 groundbreaking for a nuclear plant in Kemmerer, things are looking up.

August 2024

Scott Van Hartesvelt, Executive Director of Leadership Park City, LSDM - 06 August 2024, Via Zoom
He emphasized the importance of understanding the context and the many small decisions that lead to success, rather than focusing on single, sweeping decisions.

Bryce Rademan, Founder, Spitz Mediterranean Street Food speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) 08 August 2024, via Zoom.
Bryce shared his journey of transforming a local concept into a nationwide franchise, which now comprises 24 locations and plans for 30 more by year-end.

Caleb Chung, Editor, Harvard Salient, speaks to La Societe Deux Magots (LSDM), 13 August 2024 - Via Zoom.
Caleb shared his background, including his upbringing in Colorado Springs, his initial apolitical stance, and his growing disillusionment with the academic and social climate at Harvard.

Michael Heurta, Former FAA Administrator, on Boeing and more, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM), 20 August 2024, via Zoom.
He suggested that the underlying culture of the company had shifted towards hitting production targets and financial metrics, and that this culture needed to be rebuilt to prioritize safety.

Carol Lear, candidate Utah State School Board of Education, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) 21 August 2024 - Via Zoom.
Carol, one of the two Democrats on the board, described the board as divided between moderate and extreme rightwing members. She noted that while the board generally manages to work together, there are issues such as book banning and school safety that have become partisan.

Micheal Smith, unlicensed Punditry author, 28 August 2024
If she does, America is over. Not so much due to her policies, but because it will demonstrate the American public no longer has the capacity to govern itself. If Trump wins, we have a chance. Final words – vote like your life depends upon it, because it does.

Glenn Wright, candidate (D) for US Congress, Utah 3, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) 28 August 2024 in person at Wasatch Bagel, Park City, UT.
Electing DJT would be a complete disaster for the US.

Brian King, candidate (D) for governor of Utah and Rebekah Cummings, candidate (D) for Lt. Governor of Utah speak to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) 29 August 2024 via Zoom.
Brian emphasized his commitment to building a coalition of pragmatists and his opposition to unnecessary culture war bills, while expressing support for local control.

September 2024

Yan Ross, Editor Cyber Defense Magazine, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) 03 September 2004, via Zoom.
Yan discussed various aspects of cybersecurity, including the different types of hackers, cyber-attack types, and defense measures. He emphasized the importance of multi-factor authentication, keeping software updated, and using virtual private networks.

Phil Lyman, Write-In candidate for Governor of Utah 2024, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) 05 September 2024, via Zoom.
Phil Lyman expressed concerns about election transparency and the need for audits, citing discrepancies in voter turnout records that he had previously reported. He was frustrated by the lack of action from the Lieutenant Governor and the courts.

Jennie Earl, Member Utah State School Board, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) 10 September 2024. Via Zoom.
Jack initiated a discussion on the topic of transgendered males competing in girls' sports, with Jennie expressing her belief that young women deserve a fair playing field.

Jim Bedell, Chairman, Recycle Utah, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) 11 September 2024. Via Zoom. Also in image, Chelsea Hafer, Recycle Utah Education Coordinator.
Jack Rubin and Jim Bedell discussed the importance of recycling and its economic benefits. Jack questioned whether the appeal of recycling could be broadened to make it more mainstream, to which Jim responded that the conversation needs to be framed in terms of both environmental and economic benefits.

Tom Thomas, former Dustoff pilot, speaks to La Societe Deux Magots *LSDM) 12 September 2024, via Zoom. Note: File image of dustoff evacuation in Vietnam.
Tom discussed his experiences as a young second lieutenant in Vietnam, where he had to adapt his flying techniques due to the dangerous environment. He explained that descending at 100 feet and landing at 3 feet, the standard approach, was not feasible as it would make them vulnerable to enemy fire. Instead, he and his team would descend from 3,500 feet, identify the location of their allies through smoke signals, and then rapidly descend to treetop level before landing and picking up wounded.

Bill Ciraco, City Councilman, Park City, UT, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM) 17 September 2024. Wasatch Bagel, Park City, UT.
Meeting with the mayor. How about this? Move public works to Gordo property. Move City Hall to public works property. Sell Marsac for private development.... boutique hotel? I was pleasantly surprised at the mayor's seeming willingness to consider a significant project like this. Conceptually, I'm for it.

Angela Moschetta (in image with LSDM meeting moderator, Jack Rubin), small business owner and community advocate, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM). 19 September 2024. Park City, UT. Wasatch Bagel.
Per Angela, Vail Resorts seems to agree this is about much more than chairlifts and has put all Park City Mountain development on hold for over two years while it attempts to overturn the 2022 Park City Planning Commission decision, first in Summit County Third District court last year and now this year in Utah State Appellate Court. The Epic and Ikon pass financial models depend on selling as many passes as possible. If capacity is limited, then mega pass models would be compromised. Season passes could go back to being a product for locals, and day tickets could return to more affordable price levels.

Mark and Tammy Brown, cross USA bicycle riders, speak to La Societe Deux Magots (LSDM) 23 September 2024 via Zoom.
Mark and Tammy discussed their cycling trip, covering 2,969 miles over 57 days, with an average of 78 miles per day.

Christine Rosen, Senior Fellow, American Enterprise Institute, speaks to La Société Deux Magots (LSDM), 25 September 2024, via Zoom
Christine discussed the impact of technology on society, highlighting five key areas where she believes we have lost essential human skills.

Jeremy Rubell, City Council Member, Park City, UT, speaks to La Sociéte Deux Magots (LSDM) 26 September 2024, via Zoom
Jeremy discussed the topic of ranked choice voting (RCV) in the context of Park City municipal elections. He explained the mechanics of RCV, its potential to complicate the election process, and the State legislature's authorization of a pilot program set to expire in 2026. Jeremy also mentioned that the University of Utah's Herbert Institute would release a study on the topic.

October 2024

Jack and Carrie Kelley speak to La Sociéte Deux Magots (LSDM) on the House that Jack (and Carrie) built. 03 October 2024 - via Zoom.
Jack discussed the design process, project management, being his own contractor, and obtaining the three required permits: the building permit, land alteration permit, and electrical permit. Jack discussed the construction methods of timber frame houses, emphasizing the use of large timbers, mortise and tenon joints, and oak dowels. He detailed the process of designing his own timber frame house, which involved working with a designer and deciding on the size and layout. Jack also explained the structural elements of his house, including the use of static analysis to determine critical members and the calculation of loads and deflections. He stressed the importance of over-engineering the structure for stability and safety and mentioned the need for cement pads under the basement floor to support the timber frame. Jack concluded by stating that he had completed the design and that there was no requirement for an engineering stamp.

Paul Morris, Executive Director MIDA (Military Installation Development Authority) speaks to La Societe Deux Magots (LSDM) Tue 15 October 2024. Via Zoom.
MIDA secured land from the Air Force to create a ski facility at Mayflower in Wasatch County, set to open in November, featuring a hotel with discounted military rates.

Zach Gardner, Managing Editor, The Princeton Tory, speaks to La Societe Deux Magots (LSDM) 30 October 2024 - Via Zoom
Stephen shared that George Bush Sr. and his daughter Barbara have not endorsed Trump for president, while Zach mentioned that his paper, The Princeton Tory, has not endorsed Trump either. Zach expressed his admiration for George W. Bush and his decision to step away from politics, contrasting it with Trump's continuous presence in the political spotlight.

November 2024

Jeffery A. Miron, Senior Lecturer, Harvard University, speaks to La Societe Deux Magots (LSDM) 12 November 2024, via Zoom. Topic: US Tax Policy
Don then asked about the opportunities and obstacles in a new administration's plan for government efficiency, to which Jeffrey responded that while there could be scope for sensible cuts, it would likely have a minimal impact on the fiscal imbalance.

Professor Koleman Strumph, Wake Forest University, speaks to La Societe Deux Magots (LSDM) via Zoom. 13 November 2024.
Koleman discussed the market's predictions for the 2024 US Presidential Election, highlighting that the market favored Trump to win in various battleground states. However, he noted that polls were inconclusive, with some showing a slight lead for Trump and others indicating a close race.

Ryan Dickey, Park City, City Councilman, speaks to La Societe Deux Magots (LSDM), 14 November 2024. Via Zoom
Ryan presented the Main Street Area Plan, a comprehensive vision for the future of Park City's downtown core, focusing on land use, development, and infrastructure improvements.

Thomas L. Schwenk speaks to La Societe Deux Magots (LSDM) 20 November 2024, via Zoom.
Two physicians, Drs. Sarah Fletcher and Thomas Wilson, arrive separately in Park City, Utah in the 1890s—a rough mining town plagued by smoky air, muddy streets, and political corruption—to practice medicine. They join forces to solve a medical mystery that jeopardizes the lives of miners, incurring the wrath of a treacherous mine superintendent, but discover that helping each other overcome the residual scars of their past lives presents an even greater challenge.

Department of Education (DOE) logo. Fritz Edelstein, Former Senior Staff US Department of Education, speaks to La Societe Deux Magots (LSDM) 26 November 2024, via Zoom.
In my opinion the Administration keeps the Department as it is. The agency does not dictate curriculum and instruction as some state. It does not set standards for achievement in any subject matter, states do. Both are a myth. Trim some fat if there is any. But the most powerful thing to be done is the role of the Secretary for a bully pulpit and the Administration proposes legislation on programs it wants to create and fund. Also, when the Administration submits its budget to Congress that priorities are set and programs are not recommended to be funded. The agency serves a specific function and service.

December 2024

Caleb Fine, Acting Superintendent Park City (UT) School District, speaks to La Societe Deux Magots (LSDM) 03 December 2024, via Zoom.
"Supporting our teachers and staff is at the heart of our mission, and we will continue to invest in their growth and well-being to foster an inclusive and thriving school community. As we prepare for the future, we will focus on strengthening our resources, programs, and collaborations to ensure that Park City School District remains a leader in education."- Caleb Fine, Interim Superintendent, Park City School District

Ben Hoy, Director of Walpole, New Hampshire Recycling, speaks to La Societe Deux Magots (LSDM) 05 December 2024. via Zoom.
Ben discussed the recycling system in Walpole, New Hampshire, a town of about 4,000 people. He highlighted the town's commitment to recycling, with a focus on source separation and the use of a pay-by-bag system.

Wilfred Reilly, Professor, Kentucky State University. 11 December 2024.
Wilfred Riley, an associate professor of politics at Kentucky State University, discussed the disconnect between perception and reality in the American upper middle class. He focused on the narrative of a wave of hate crimes, which he argued was largely a hoax. Wilfred cited examples such as the Jussie Smollett case, the Covington Catholic incident, and Yasmin Seweid's alleged harassment.

Tim Sanderson, Jeremy Rubell and Bill Ciraco speak to La Societe Deux Magots (LSDM), 12 December 2024, via Zoom.
22% Increase in Ridership over the Summer The addition of the Teal during the summer impacted the Red and Yellow Net positive ridership gain Trolley ridership through the roof!!

Walt Stowe, Ret. Undercover Specialist - FBI, speaks to La Societe Deux Magots (LSDM) 17 December 2024, via Zoom.
He highlighted the unprecedented investigations into the Trump campaign and administration, which he believed were politically motivated. Walt also criticized the FBI's handling of the Steele dossier and the FISA warrants, calling it a "malfeasance" rather than a series of mistakes.