I’d like to talk a little about interest rates in this article. As you are all painfully aware, interest rates are on the rise. Interest rates are the expense associated with borrowing money. When interest rates are low, borrowing and the associated spending by consumers and businesses increase. When demand for products and services exceed supply, prices rise. The measure of these rising prices is called inflation. A little inflation is good. When prices are going up, people want to buy now rather than pay more later. This increases demand, resulting in business expansion and higher employment. Too much inflation, however, can be disastrous. The current inflation rate in the US is 8.3% and it has been above 6.0% for the past year.

Spring is such a great time of year, especially here in Utah. I think our long, cold winters help us appreciate springtime a little more than those in warmer climates. As the days get longer, and warmer, I hope you are all energized for getting back outdoors. We live in such a great part of the country with mountains, lakes, rivers, and deserts all within a day’s drive. Utah has more national parks (five) than any other state besides California and Alaska. We really do live in a pretty, great State.

Spring has sprung! Warmer days are here, interspersed with the occasional snow day. This spring feels especially renewing as we emerge from our year-long pandemic hibernation. The COVID-19 pandemic is not over, and we must still be vigilant, but the light at the end of the tunnel is getter brighter and brighter. I’m grateful for dedicated employees, volunteers, and members who have helped Wasatch Peaks continue with our mission of helping people during this difficult time.