I suppose every state has its problems. Michigan lives and dies by the auto industry, which is now at a crossroads. Production is being hampered by shortages of computer chips while prices are putting new vehicles out of the hands of many would-be buyers. 

New York’s governor jumped before he could be pushed out of office and crime in New York and other big cities like Chicago remains out of control. Covid’s comeback is hitting the deep south hard.

Maybe it’s because we live here and are too close to it’s problems, but California seems to be the unhappiest state in the Union. It’s been a record fire season, which sadly has become an annual event. Criminals are being released early and reoffending, in some cases committing vicious assaults and murder, crimes worse than the felonies that put them behind bars in the first place.

 It was a fair vote, but California now retains Governor Newsom, a politician who has done pretty much what he wants, regardless of public sentiment, while failing to adequately address the state's biggest problems. From Amador to Anaheim, drought and future water supplies are a concern and while California is among the states with the highest percentage of vaccinations, Co Vid is making a serious comeback, with even those inoculated subject to infection. 

Inflation, though it seems to be moderating across the country, has hit California especially hard. The highest gas prices in the country are getting ridiculous, $5 dollars a gallon in the big cities, close to it in other parts of the state. Inflation is noticeable during every trip to a grocery store or restaurant. The employment situation is truly bizarre. The statewide unemployment rate is close to 8 percent, among the highest in the country, yet it seems every sector of our economy is looking for workers. Generous jobless benefits and co vid induced rent moratoriums effectively invite would-be workers to stay home, with an entitlement mentality setting in. 

SMUD reports many customers, while enjoying free rent, are failing to pay their electric and gas bills. Intense summer heat and daily smog and smoke from seasonal fires are keeping many from enjoying California’s natural beauty and vast recreation opportunities. Living here has ceased to be fun, and the daily cost of living and fears about the future make things worse. The Golden State in many respects has been tarnished. The idea that California can bounce back any time soon ….File that one under Fools Gold.