SundayMorningCoffee

Sunday Morning Coffee 6 June 2021

And, Good Morning! Grab a cup of Sunday Morning Coffee some of the political and social news you might have seen, or missed, all laced with my, usual, acerbic commentary. It's what I get to do once a week.  Let's go:

No Apology

It was a stunning piece of news. Between 1890 and 1969 some 150,000 indigenous children of Canada were forced to attend state-funded Christian schools, the majority of them run by Catholic missionaries. The idea was to subject these kids to indoctrination so they could be assimilated into Canadian society.

Recently ground penetrating radar was used to confirm the remains of 215 children at the Kamloops Residential School in British Columbia...operated by the Catholic church. For its part the Canadian government has admitted that physical and sexual abuse was rampant in the schools with children beaten for speaking their native languages and has made apologies.

Meanwhile Pope Frances, today, said it was "a sad affair" and "This sad discovery increases the awareness of the sorrows and sufferings of the past."  But, no apology for the actions of the church. 

So, the U.S. isn't the only nation guilty of such things...  Remember though "Manifest Destany"...so it must be OK.

15%

It's a big deal. Last week the G-7 met and agreed to a minimum of a 15% tax on sales and profits by corporations that are selling or located in what has been called "low tax sanctuaries". Those would include many nations in the Caribbean. In Europe the corporate tax rate is all over the board from Hungary at 9% to France at 31%. The goal here is to tax companies such as Facebook and other internet corporations who have managed to set up shop in one location or another to avoid paying up. The proposal now goes to roughly 21 other nations for approval.  The Biden Administration has wanted a higher tax rate but asked that 15% be the minimum.  

Back On Stage

Well that went...well. Former President 45 was back on stage yesterday kicking off a national tour to promote lies. (It's what he does best.) Of course, he continued to spread the "Big Lie" and give himself credit for a whole bunch of stuff that either never happened or was a major failure. Think COVID-19 reaction and "Infrastructure Week".

The amazing thing is that people still fawn over him. Look, this is not only scary but dangerous for our nation. We have seen this playbook before in 1930's Germany where the people who felt they had been given a raw deal fawned over a hateful man with crazy ideas. I suspect the former president has Mein Kampf bookmarked. No, wait...that would assume the man can read. (Image: BBC)

Those Crazy Democrats

Meanwhile it's pretty nutty in the U.S. Senate as today CBS Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV) was asked about his stand on bipartisanship. Here is what he said, "I think Senate Republicans want bipartisanship." Host John Dickerson: "Well, they haven’t shown that yet, McConnell says he’s 100% focused on blocking Biden agenda & the GOP restructuring of voting laws state-by-state is..."  Manchin: "Yeah, but I think deep-down they want it."

Denial is a river in Egypt. 

Making the Rounds...

The first announced Democrat to run against Sen. Charles Grassley (R-IA), Dave Muhlbauer is making the rounds of Polk County Neighborhood Groups. Muhlbauer, a farmer from Southwest Iowa announced his candidacy last week knows he's got to be out there early and often. An interesting side-note. Grassley who is 87 has served in the U.S. Senate since 1981 which is longer than Dave Muhlbauer has been alive.

So, there is that.

Thank You Todd Pritchard

Last week Iowa House Minority Leader Rep. Todd Pritchard (D-Charles City) announced that he was leaving that leadership position following three sessions in the minority. It was rough duty having to go up against the anti-democratic group in the majority. Imagine every day having to face people who are simply not lined up with reality. From health care to taxes to guns to education the Republicans continue to tear down this once great state.  Democrats will choose a new leader on June 14 and I have a suspicion of who that might be but keeping my thoughts quiet until she lets me know she is in the running.  Hint, hint...nudge...nudge. 

Just Being There...Works

Last week I had the opportunity to hang out with the Clive Democrats and the amazing Lila Starr who chairs that group. She and Hope Johnson, who is running for the Clive City Council, were working the booth during Food Truck Friday sponsored by the Clive Chamber of Commerce. 

This is just one of dozens of registration events going on in Polk County each week.  Are we signing folks up?  Sure. But, what is so powerful about this is simply being seen.  Letting folks know in places that had been "ruby red" for a very long time that Democrats are alive and active and working on the issues the vast majority of Iowans believe it and desire.  Change can happen we've just got to stay at it.

Partly Personal

My Bride left me on Thursday. Well, it's not really that dramatic. She and some other "ladies" went to Arkansas to go...camping. Arkansas! Camping! I have no idea where she went but it took her nearly 10 hours to get there. Due home sometime later today.  Safe travels.  BTW...for their last day of "camping" one of her new friends had a contact so they spent the final day and night at a resort...with a hot tub and all the finer things of life. No...charge.  Pretty sweet. THAT'S the kind of "camping" I could go for.

While the cat is away the (very cool) Cats will play. My brother, Yoni, came over last evening and cooked supper. I didn't have to do anything but mix the drinks. He is a wonder in the kitchen. The meal was amazing: Roasted and stuffed Portobello mushrooms, seasoned baked potatoes, stuffed and roasted onions and flank steak that had been pounded very thin, rubbed and marinated for 24 hours.

I gotta tell you...it was delightful.

We then watched a couple of episodes of The Kominsky Method featuring Alan Arkin and Michael Douglas. If you get a chance...watch. It is part comedy and part drama but it is all good. I was turned onto the series by a member of my congregation in Mason City who raved about it and said, "Oy, it is such a reminder of so many of my friends. You have got to see it!" Thanks Peter. One thing to know. If you have some reference to older Jewish men and can appreciate the humor...it is  priceless. 

Finally our son, Aaron, was over on Friday afternoon when it was 90 degrees to install a "motion detection security light" on the side of the house. Georgie wanted one and on Monday she and I attempted to put it up but...fail.  I asked Aaron to do it (he is way more handy than I and 30 years younger) and BAM!  Took him about 20 minutes. But, yes, it was hot and yes...it does work.  Thank you! 

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday!

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 14 February 2021

Welcome to the Valentine's Day Edition of Sunday Morning Coffee. Glad you are here on this very cold Sunday Morning...and, yes, there are loads of things to ponder over your hot cup of coffee. Let's get started.

Profiles in Courage

There was a book, perhaps you have read it, authored by President John F. Kennedy that detailed the courageous acts of several leaders in times of crisis. Yesterday in the United States Senate there were few reminders of courage as only seven members of the GOP crossed over to vote to convict the former president of insurrection. You and I know what he did. We watched it unfold for months before the election as he stoked his radical base. And, then lied about the outcome, taking it to court sixty times and losing. And, just like a mob boss, threatened election officials if they didn't "stop the steal". It was obvious what he did and what the Senate should have done.

There are stories that the Republican Party is fractured. That is not true. It is, and has been, the political party of the former president. It is a party that plays on fear and anger and hate. There is no courage in cowards.  None.

Switch Hitting

There are some talented baseball players that can hit a ball batting right-handed or left. It's called "switch hitting". That was on full display last month as then the former U.S. Senate leader would not allow an impeachment trial to take place and then, after President Biden was sworn in said the former president could not be impeached because he was no longer in office. A brilliant display of "switch hitting". And  the arrogant Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-TN) then sent out the word to the loyal GOP that they should parrot his talking points and that is exactly what happened in my home state where Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA) released a statement that read like it came from the desk of Mitch. Meanwhile Sen. Joni Ernst (R-IA) tells the New York Times that the impeachment trial was a "shit show".  Such class senator....

Chuck Grassley

I've known the senior senator from Iowa for decades. I met him, and sat with him for several hours, at a long table in the Elks Club in Webster City, Iowa when he was in congress and taking his first steps to run the the U.S. Senate. We talked, mostly, about family, farming and waste in government. He went on to win that election and when I was the presiding over the state's largest continuing care retirement community I invited him to come and speak...often.

Back then he was known as a champion, fighting against waste and fraud. Recently he has become that fraud. History will long remember how he shrank from his duty on the 13th Day of February 2021 and forget about what good he may have accomplished decades ago. Meanwhile I understand that State Senator Jim Carlin (R-Sioux City) has filed paperwork to run for the U.S. Senate when Grassley retires. Carlin is a full on bigot who is behind several bills pending in the Iowa Legislature that outright discriminates against various individuals be they be transgender or poor. Just the sort of person we really need now.

D.C. Statehood

What is the one thing that can unite the GOP even more than the disgraced ex-president. How about the reality that congress will vote to move much of the District of Columbia into the 51st U.S. State? It really does cause shivers among the racist Republicans. You see there are lots of those Black People that live and work in the District and, well, you know how that plays out.  When folks of color are permitted to vote they often vote for Democrats.  By gosh, we can't have that can we?  That is also why in states that are controlled by Republicans they are rushing to pass bills that would restrict voting.

Meanwhile my good friend Tamyra Harrison is having a Birthday Party and you are invited. Tamyra is the executive director of Iowan's for D.C. Statehood and has done a remarkable job in spearheading the movement. The online event is scheduled for 3 March at 6PM Central. Consider attending.  You'll hear from Sen. Paul Strauss (D.C.), Bo Shuff the Executive Director of D.C. Vote and Betty Andrews from the Iowa-Nebraska NAACP.  Here is the link to the event. Hope you will join me.

Partly Personal

We celebrated another birthday in the family. Taylor turned 12 and we watched her, via Facetime, unroll her present. Georgie gets several rolls of cling wrap and then stuffs in dozens of little things from money to hot chocolate mix into a huge ball.  It's a great time.  Wish we could have been there in person.

And, Happy Valentine's Day to my Bride! This is one of my favorite photos of her. We were doing dinner at one of our favorite restaurants on Anna Maria Island in Florida a couple of years ago. She loves it there...and yes, I love her.  Thank you for putting up with me.

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 24 January 2021

Just ahead of what they say will be a blizzard in Iowa, welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee.  Here you'll find some of the political news stories you seen or, perhaps, missed all laced with my (usually acerbic) commentary.  It's what I get to do before the sun comes up each Sunday. Let's go!

Yes I Cried

It was an emotional moment to see Joe Biden become the 46th President of the United States and Kamala Harris become the Vice President of the United States. It has been such a long road for Joe and the optics of seeing Kamala become "the first" was overwhelming. For those countless workers and volunteers from every corner of our nation who spent so much time during the primary and after...every minute mattered...and in the end counted. Thank you. The inauguration event showed us what we could become and the days festivities took us all on an emotional rollercoaster. Be honest...how many of you held your breath as President Biden walked down the street to the White House? We knew D.C. was locked down but, maybe, I've seen too many movies. BTW the evening special with Tom Hanks was so much better than watching folks at the many balls. It was so well done. And, if you're looking for fireworks for the 4th of July...well, hope there are some left. Stunning! (Photo: The Guardian Leader)

Gone But Not Forgotten

When the petulant child who would be president left the White House and dishonored tradition by not attending the inauguration we knew the stain of his four years in office would remain. In his wake he has left a cadre of disciples who are hell bent to continue his slash and burn style of political revenge and disruption. His faithful say, "He did what he promised!" Oh really? The 2017 Jobs and Tax Act did little to nothing for 90% of Americans. "Oh, but he brought peace to the Middle East." Well, not exactly as much of that was well underway long before he glided down the golden escalator and into the bowels of the swamp.  No, there was not and is not a GOP answer to Health Care. No there is no massive infrastructure program in place. No there is no admiration of the United States by our allies. And those like Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) and Sen. Josh Hawley (R-MO) and Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY) will carry on because they fear the "Great Orange Man". Make now mistake the Republican Party is his party and people like Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Sen. Joni Ernst (R-IA) will continue to carry his water and obstruct our forward progress. Watch as they all conspire to be the obstructionist party they have become since 2008.  

Unity is a Nice Word...

In some wedding traditions there is the custom of lighting a "Unity Candle" symbolizing the coming together of two people to form one union. (We Jews smash a glass...) Of course five or ten years later when that union starts to dissolve that beautifully decorated candle ends up in the trash bin. But, perhaps there is still unity as the now divorcing couple seek mediation. It is, after all a compromise. My point is that it takes two to unite. Right now, as this is being written the GOP is working at a fever pitch to block or overturn or obstruct any forward progress. The Rescue America $1.9 trillion proposal that will move mountains to get us out of the economic and health disaster that is destroying our nation is already under attack. If legislators can not agree to salvage what is left of the United States through a massive effort like this we are doomed. It is up to you to write, call and move this bill forward. Joe and Kamala still need each one of us.

The Patriot Party

Have you heard? "45" has sent out messages that he is wanting to create a new political party called The Patriot Party. I can't believe I'm saying this but I hope that happens. It would be a gift to the Democrats and it would be the end of the GOP. THAT, my friends, is why so many legislators, governors and party people are shaking in their boots. Let 'em stew...

Meanwhile...

Did you notice the sea change? It is happening all around us. Look at the people who have been nominated to serve on President Biden's Cabinet. It is as diverse a group that has ever been constructed. It is...America,. Also the election of the new Chair of the Democratic Party, Jamie Harrison is sending a clear message. And, here in Iowa, where the Black population is less than 4% my friend Rep. Ross Wilburn (D-Ames) will chair the Iowa Democratic Party. Celebrate if you will...but we are not done. Now, the hard work must continue. (Photo: Daily Iowan)

Let me take you back to 2008. I was in a grocery check-out line and a woman, who I did not know, was just ahead of me. Barack Obama had just been elected as the 44th President of the United States. Overcome with a desire to celebrate I tapped this woman on the shoulder and when she turned around with tears in my eyes I said, "Isn't it wonderful about the new president? We have finally...overcome." The white man and the black woman hugged and we hoped. But it was not to be. Obstruction and racism intensified and the Obama Administration made the fateful decision that they could actually negotiate with the Republican Party.  The GOP fought every bill and many of these people, still in office today, publicly stated they would obstruct, delay and deny.

My point is that while we have moved the deck chairs in a striking fashion we can not and must not let up. We have not yet overcome and while there are powerful people in place with skin color different than mine...millions of black, and brown citizens in this country continue to struggle against an oppressive system.  We...have work to do.

Does This Make Sense?

I live in Iowa, a deep Red State where common sense and science are disregarded. If you doubt it consider the many bills the GOP House and State Senate are proposing. Where just last week the Iowa AFL/CIO filed an OSHA complaint against the Republican leaders of the two chambers in their failure to protect the health and welfare of Capitol workers and visitors by disregarding masks and social distancing.

Meanwhile the state wrestling tournament is going on but at 25% capacity. University and college sports play with few if any fans in the stands. So, it would seem some are taking the pandemic seriously. With over 4,487 deaths in Iowa and another 1,368 new COVID19 cases (as of yesterday) we should pay attention. 

Oh but...on February 2, 3 & 4 the Iowa Ag Expo will take place at the Iowa Events Center. For those of you not familiar with the event let me share with you that it brings thousands of people to Polk County.  I have been there many times as a displayer, as a facilitator and as a reporter. There are hundreds of displayers and thousands of farmers and their families who are drawn to the event. In fact it bills itself as the "third largest indoor ag show in the nation". On Friday I called the Iowa Events Center and asked about COVID19 protocols. I was told it was up to the promoter and in this case the Iowa-Nebraska Equipment Dealers Association. I know these folks and like them but I'll be darned if I can find one mention of COVID19 and the show on their website. Maybe I'm missing it...but on the Iowa Ag Expo site it's like, "Never mind...it's all OK."

Then there is the upcoming Iowa Deer Classic scheduled for March 5, 6 & 7.  Been there too but at least that group has PDF COVID19 Protocol list center on their website. However, having been there I'm not sure putting up to 30,000 folks in the building is such a good idea. I realize that this is the business of business but several friends of mine who are marketing to deer hunters in Iowa are concerned about sending staff.  I would be too.

Partly Personal

I got a gift yesterday!  Yes!!!! It is a belated Christmas gift from my Bride. And it is, as pictured a bar of soap that is called the Big Ass Lump of Coal. It's from the Duke Cannon Supply Company and not only is it high quality soap it is just one of many fun items on the site. Go ahead and have a look. You need a laugh at this point and what a fitting gift, "Smells Like Mischief & Shenanigans" on the box. Very cool and I'm here to help you.

Up top I indicated that I would share a story about Joe Biden. One that I have never shared in public. Yes, a few friends have heard the story and, I believe, it is not an uncommon story. My friend Dr. Bob Leonard a broadcaster and writer from Rural Iowa posted a letter he received from Joe following the death of his dear father.  And, I've seen the president console others at a time of grief.  If you want, you can listen because it would take way too long to write it out. Just click the player below.

Biden Memory January 2021

Thanks for reading and for listening.  Have a great Sunday! 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 20 December 2020

It's the week of Christmas and may those of you celebrating have a meaningful event. Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee my weekly look at the political (and sometimes religious) news stories out there and offer my own, usually acerbic, commentary. Hey, it's what I get to do long before the sun comes up.  Let's go!

Bye Mike

Last week, in the first official word from the U.S. Government Secretary of State Mike Pompeo put the blame of the massive security breach squarely on Russian hackers and orchestrated by that government. Then along comes "45" and says, nope..."China!". In a classic move the president, who prefers Twitter to actually having a policy wrote:  “The Cyber Hack is far greater in the Fake News Media than in actuality. I have been fully briefed and everything is well under control,”. He also claimed the media are “petrified” of “discussing the possibility that it may be China (it may!).” Expect Mike to be packing his bags and joining the massively incompetent Attorney General William Barr as the revolving door continues to spin. (Image - Financial Times) 

Money, Money, Money, Money...

If we can believe what we are hearing from the U.S Senate it looks like we're on track for an agreement on yet another stimulus roll out. As of this morning the final stamp is being put on a $900 billion package that will include an additional $300 in weekly unemployment benefits, funding for schools, small businesses, health care workers and another round of stimulus checks. Out of the deal is money for state and local governments and liability protections for businesses and other entities operating during the pandemic. In celebration I bring you the 1973 hit by the O'Jays. You are welcome and TURN IT UP! (And, I promise it will be an ear-worm for you all day.)

What may have moved the ball is that last week the U.S. added yet another 885,000 new requests for unemployment benefits. That is up by 23,000 over the prior week and a clear sign that the economy is in rough shape.  Money in the hands of people who will actually spend it, rather than buy stock, moves the economy forward. It ain't that hard to figure out.

Careful What You Name It

It looks like "Operation Warp Speed" hit a speed bump. Seems that states are getting a fraction of the number of Pfizer vaccine vials they were first promised. There was lots of finger pointing going on including Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D-MI) who has a Pfizer production plant in her backyard but was shorted about 40% of what was promised. After several days of "Whack-a-Mole" we learned, on Saturday, that, well, we goofed.  General Gustave Perna, chief operating officer of Operation Warp Speed, apologized for a "planning error" that caused dozens of states to expect more vaccine doses than they'll actually get. He took full blame and said he is fixing it. Meanwhile the Moderna vaccine has been approved by the FDA and it, unlike the Pfizer model, can be shipped and stored at temperatures much less than the -75 degrees celsius...which should be much better news for rural areas of the country.

Careful What You Name It II

Just so you feel better Vice President Mike Pence last week rolled out the answer to a question that nobody has been asking. We now know that the couple of dozen people who are the United States Space Force will be called "Guardians". Isn't that nice and don't you feel so much more, well, protected?  For the record, you might wonder what the duty of the Guardians might be so, here you go: "Provide freedom of operation for the United States in, from, and to space. Provide prompt and sustained space operations." Sort of like NASA and the Air Force but hey...we needed more drama in 2020.

More Help for Georgia

In case you had not heard "45" is headed back to Georgia to help the two crooks running for re-election there. Birds of a feather I suspect. If it's like the last time he will give the candidates a couple of minutes to state their case and then rail against the election, the media other members of the GOP...you know the drill.

Iowa Will Remain Red...Forever

Not to scare the hell out of you but in talking with several folks this past week, who are connected Democrats, I'm being told that Iowa will remain firmly in the GOP fold for decades to come. The conversation centered on the miserable job Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) is doing here. Favorite under the desk deals for cronies, the mishandling of the COVID19 response, her continued attack on collective bargaining all get a "I don't care" response from Independents, Republicans and even a few Democrats. "People like her because, just like many of them, she reflects their inability to understand the role of government and voters have been told for decades, in Iowa, that government is bad and we just need to do the right thing as individuals."

While two or three counties in Iowa will remain Democratic strongholds that ain't playin' in the rest of the state. And, when you figure that, even in Polk County, we lost two Democrat seats in the House.  Ouch. "I really don't see any person being able to take on Reynolds and win much less Grassley. Stick a fork in it...or maybe move."  Looks like we might need the Guardians.

What Will Win?

The Democrats are, right now, working on plans and policies aimed at Rural Voters. No, not kidding. We've really got to have a better policy brief other than, "You folks are dumb shits." That never plays well. Here's something that you might not realize. There are, right now 24 counties in Iowa where the majority of folks are living below the federal poverty line of $26,200 for a family of four. Let that sink in. And, if you are counting we don't have that many urban counties so...it's not that we city folk are all causing so much economic pain. Nope the win-win is in a number of economic efforts that we can and should be talking about. Want a quick list:

• High-Speed Internet - Look, I've been on this for well over a decade. This can be a game changer for everything from entrepreneurs who live in rural Iowa but do business on a global scale to hospitals and schools that are, often, the backbone of our small communities. In addition we're seeing remote work as a big win for people and corporations. You don't have to shell out $4,000 a month for a studio apartment in San Francisco to work in Silicon Valley. Ask the folks in Jefferson, Iowa. 
• Food Security Measures - We've all heard that, "Iowa feeds the world..." But, it seems that we can't feed ourselves correctly. Fast, cheap food from the local convenience store only increases obesity and health problems associated with a lousy diet. We can do better;
• Life Skills Education - Oh yeah....we're hot on STEM but can you balance a check-book or understand the economics of money? How about learning how to actually cook something rather than heat it up in the microwave? (See point two above.) I think we can educate folks on both life skills and stuff like science, technology, engineering and math.  Ya think?
• Reimagine Crumbling Infrastructure - We should have a "Marshall Plan" to rescue our small towns that are crumbling along with the roads and bridges that connect them. This is going to take money and more then lip service. Think of how we can be helpful rather than hurtful. Having lived in Rural Iowa I can tell you there is a solid quality of life there...but you've got to have access and infrastructure for it to be successful.
• Embrace Small Faming - I've lived on what once called a "diversified farm". There was a time the only reason we would go to the grocery store was to buy a box of Fruit Loops. Not kidding. I'm not suggesting that we get back to "Green Acres" but our current agricultural policy is "big is better". Think of that for a moment. The farmer needs to get bigger and bigger so that he/she can beg massive agricultural corporations to offer pennies on the dollar when it comes to commodities. Who is getting wealthy here? It ain't the farmer. And what is being produced from the commodities is, once again, high calorie/low nutritional value products. There is a market for good food but these farmers need a lane in which to sell it.  The road-side stand doesn't cut it...we need transportation answers and market stability measures for small diversified farmers".

Hey, just me...spitballing. You are welcome to join the conversation.

Partly Personal

This would have been the weekend when our home would be buzzing with activity. Family and friends would pour in from several states and we would celebrate the holidays with massive food events, tell stories, share some wine (and booze) and catch up on our lives. Not this year. We, like so many other families, have made the decision to avoid the crowded space. The safety of others is, frankly, more important than having a two day party. Will it work? I hope so. You see, now that we're seeing vaccines roll out...our job is to buy time. We do that by staying out of harms way refusing to "roll the dice" and by doing that slow the spread and get the time we need to create a solid holiday gathering in 2022.

Here is wishing you your family health and happiness.  Thanks for reading. 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 13 December 2020

Hope this edition of Sunday Morning Coffee finds you and yours well. Who would have thought THAT would be top of mind for each of us
but it is and...that is what we've been dealt. Let's get into our conversation, and you are always welcome to comment, on politics with a dash of religion.

Sedition

We've heard that word often over the past several weeks. It means it means, "conduct or speech inciting people to rebel against the authority of the state".  Exactly what the elected attorneys general of seventeen states did when they signed onto the case against the election of Joe Biden by the attorney general of Texas Ken Paxton. Obviously, they are Republican politicians who would like to see "45" remain in the White House. But, consider for a moment these are people of legal stature. They deal with complex legal issues every day and they tossed out ethics and reason to jump on the train that crashed and burned. We should remember.

But, it gets worse. There were 125 Republican members of Congress who also signed on to the doomed Supreme Court case designed to toss out the votes of Americans in four states won by Joe Biden. They may feel safe because of their districts but we should all remember who they were and work like hell to vote these tradiors out of office in 2022.  Sedition, my friends has a price to pay. (Image - Dallas Morning News)

Reality

Her name is "Kilda" and she lives and writes from Aberdeen, South Dakota. I don't know her but when I saw this Tweet it stuck. "Aberdeen - where you get to see 4 well-known republicans sitting at a 4 top at a cafe area, no masks, all well above senior discount status and then 2 weeks later an obit (due to covid) about what a proud Republican he was." That was somebody's father, grandfather, uncle, brother...dead because of bad decisions and following the failure of people elected to lead and keep us safe. Nice job Kristi Lynn Noem (R-SD).

Opportunity Missed

As I write this millions of doses of a vaccine are being rolled out across the nation. You would think that the White House and the current president would take this opportunity to lead and to engage America in lifting up this accomplishment. But, nope. All day yesterday "45" railed against Attorney General William Barr because he sat on information about a probe into the tax affairs of Hunter Biden...like that would have made a difference.  It is yet another example of the callous nature of this man and it was/is a missed opportunity. But, we should have expected that.  

Tomorrow

On Monday the electors will meet to formally name Joseph Robinette Biden Jr. the 46th President of the United States. It has been a struggle to get here. However, if you look beyond the foolishness of "45" and his minions and focus on what Biden has been doing you can see the promise of a brighter tomorrow. He and his team have ignored the tantrums coming from the White House and have been busy building a bench of capable leaders and advisors who already have been working to care for Americans...all Americans. Steady, focused and compassionate. Get ready...because even with all the ugliness that is out there, fresh air is about to take the stink out of the swamp.

Work To Be Done

On Friday, at noon, I was on a call with other Democrats who lead various groups in Polk County, Iowa. (Earlier in the week it was a session with volunteers from Iowa's Third Congressional District.) These are all volunteers who give their time and talent to progressive causes and to see that we elect Democrats who will serve in the best interests of the citizens here and across the state. What were we discussing?  Our plan of action going into 2021. I can tell you it is broad and ambitious and it dives into the mission of expanding our base into areas where the GOP "believe" they are "safe". Make no mistake this, the largest Democratic stronghold in Iowa, is out to turn more of Iowa blue. We lost several elections in November but also gained a state senator. I can share with you that 2022 is on the horizon but so too are city and school board elections in 2021...we've got work to do...and while some wish to wallow in the filth that has become the Republican Party...we're moving forward.  Always forward.

I'm Calling Bullshit

Last week, on my very active Facebook Page, I was taken to task by enablers and appeasers who support the failed leadership of Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA). Some chastised me for "spewing hate during the holy season" (what "holy season" they reference is lost on me) while others said, "She did the best she could in the face of her party and the president." Bullshit. She has failed the people of Iowa by downplaying the seriousness of COVID19. By not demanding from those members of the GOP in the U.S. House and Senate that they take action to help struggling Iowans, and the cities and towns they live in with stimulus money, that could assuage the pain of further shut-downs that may be necessary as our case and death tolls mount. She could have demanded that the state move forward in spending the over $700 million in our "rainy day fund" to assist schools and cities in dealing with increased costs due to the pandemic. She could have invited respected scientists and physicians to attend her "briefings" rather than cast them aside and then cast blame on the media. She could have refrained from back-room deals with cronies and no-bid contracts. But...no. She has failed, period, hard stop. (Image - Kevin Duffy)

Look, if my business, or for that matter your business, failed who would be responsible? Whoever is the leader...that is the right answer. So, don't give me this BS about how the governor "tried to do the right thing against the odds"...it doesn't work. 2022 is coming and we'll remember.

Partly Personal

Some have suggested that in victory we should be magnanimous to those who are vanquished. This while they call for secession and continue to impede our democratic ideals. Nope. While you might "turn the other cheek" that ain't happening here and let me share why:

Lost to many of my non-Jewish friends (and some Jews) is the real meaning of Chanukah.  Many look at this holiday (non-Biblical by the way) thinking it's all about something warm and fuzzy. "Oh it's the Festival of Lights..." Please, don't let Hallmark fool you. Chanukah is the marking of a military victory over an oppressive regime that denied religious freedom to the Jews. 

It all starts out when the evil Syrian-Greek king Antiochus Epiphanes, hatches a plan to destroy Judaism. After his army sacked Jerusalem, murdered thousands of Jews, took over the Temple and made it a barn he forbid the practice of some very interesting things: No longer could the Jews study Torah the bedrock of life. His second command was the outlawing of three mitzvot: No celebrating Shabbat, no sanctifying of the New Month and the prohibition of circumcision.

Over impossible odds a small group of Jews revolted and beat, what was then, the largest army on the planet.  In celebration of their victory they cleaned and "rededicated" (Chanukah) the Temple. That's the short version and it ain't warm and fuzzy.

But, there is something unique about Chanukah that is different from any other Jewish celebration: Chanukah is very...public. Our many other holidays and festivals are done quietly and often out of sight. But during Chanukah we place a menorah outside or in the front window of our homes to proclaim we are Jews, we are here and even though, through the centuries, you have tried to obliterate us...we ain't going nowhere. Other Jews see those candles and know they have a home and that oppression will not be tolerated.

So...thanks for reading and Happy Chanukah!  

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 22 November 2020

Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee my weekly review of the news stories you may have seen, or missed, all laced with my commentary. It's what I get to do and, what the hell, it makes my Republican friends...angry.  Truth hurts. Let's go...

Fifty-Seven Years

Take another look at the date. It was 57 years ago today that President John F. Kennedy was murdered in Dallas. If you are old enough to remember that date you, no doubt, know exactly where you were when you heard the news.  I was in a 7th Grade English class when the teacher walked out of the room. She had been called out by the principal who was, I learned later, going to each classroom the share the dreadful news. When she came back in the room tears were rolling down her face and she told us, between sobs, that the president had been killed. School was dismissed and the nation mourned those four days until the burial on the 25th. Such was November 22, 1963.

What Is The Matter With You?

It is Thanksgiving week and millions of Americans are traveling for the holiday. Never mind that we're experiencing 200,000 COVID19 cases a day and that death is taking out roughly 2,000 a day. Yet...you are traveling for the holiday like nothing is going on? The denial is stunning but even more is the selfishness. "I wanna to see my kids." "I wanna have a nice dinner with friends and family." Well, know what? I would like to see you alive and not burdened with thousands of dollars in medical bills.  I would like you to actually think about others that you may come into contact with following your family-spreader adventure of turkey and ham or whatever you are planning.  Weary. (Image - Chicago Tribune)

Michigan

I've written before about how my home state of Michigan is a looney bin of right-wing nut jobs. Last week several GOP state legislators were summoned to the White House to talk...turkey.  It's the latest ploy of a desperate president attempting to stage a coup. After their meeting the Michigan legislators were photographed downing Dom Perignon at the Trump Hotel in D.C. The champaign goes for $750 a bottle. Two things stand out: 1) How much tax money went to the maskless party and who paid? 2) Do you see the hypocrisy of this crowd as thousands line up in a "bread line" in Dallas?  Here's the deal.  If you support this mob if you vote for these people you are enabling the worst of us.  Seriously?  How can you call yourself a "Republican"...you are part of the problem. (Image - KXAN)

The Election

I was going to write about the foolishness but decided against it. We've all been watching the clown show for days. The G-20 did have a meeting to talk about COVID19 and the world response. The president took a pass and went golfing.  And 70,000,000 voted for this guy. Says volumes.

North Dakota

You might have heard about this place. It is a country just south of Canada that is the leading the nation when it comes to COVID19 infections. In fact North Dakota last week reported more coronavirus deaths than any other state or nation. More than one in 1,000 people there have died. Nobody much cares because not many people live there...and there is soon to be even fewer.  Sad, but true. Right now there are 75 striking Teamster Local 120 workers on a picket line outside of Cash-Wa a food distribution center that supplies products for 10,000 restaurants, hotels,hospitals and schools in several states. The company is privately owned by the Henning family and Tom Henning is the CEO.  The workers there have been without a contract since March. They are working in unsafe conditions with no temperature checks, no hand sanitizer stations no social distancing. 

North Dakota, like Iowa, is a "Right to Steal" state where union activity is frowned upon and strikes are rare. The media is concerned about food shortages...now. Meanwhile we're learning that here in Iowa Tyson supervisors were making bets on how many people would test positive in their stinking meat processing facilities. Not caring one bit about the people working there. Let that sink in. 

Teamsters Local 120 represents 11,500 workers in the Midwest. There should be a way to contribute to their strike fund.  If I find a link I'll pass it along. 

Georgia

As long as we're talking about what is possible here, once again, are the websites so you can send a donation to Rev. Raphael Warnock and his election bid for 5 January and for Jon Ossoff. BOTH are solid Democrats and with their win we can move forward in the U.S. Senate and help Joe Biden and Kamala Harris carry out the work that needs to be done in this nation.  So...please take a moment and chip in for victory.

Partly Personal

I worry. Maybe it's a Jewish thing? I dunno but I worry about you. I worry about my co-workers, friends, family and the thousands of people I've come into contact with over the years. I just want you to be safe and healthy. And I worry that you are not paying attention. I worry that following Thanksgiving we'll see yet another surge of infections and then, because of the Christmas Holiday we'll see even more. Oh, yeah...then we've got New Year's....  Please wear a mask, refrain from gatherings, wash your hands. If you want to do something positive write and call your U.S. Senator and demand they take this seriously and pass a stimulus bill that can help America stay whole. We need...the time.

Thanks for reading.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 28 June 2020

Hi and welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee my look at the news stories you've seen, or missed, all laced with my commentary. Here is where we mix politics with a little religion and create angst among members of the GOP. Isn't it...fun?

America Number One!

When "45" rolled out his "America First" agenda we had no idea it would be so successful. It took COVID19 to push our nation to the very top as the United States leads the world in the number of coronavirus cases. According to data from Johns Hopkins University the United States accounts for more than 25% of the more than 9.8 million cases world-wide.  And, on Friday alone, the U.S. reported a staggering 45,000 more cases the highest number since the pandemic began. So, it looks like we just getting started.

Makes ya feel...special...huh?

Not Welcome...

This week the European Union will make a move to open up air travel from other nations. The word is that if you are from Canada or Japan and maybe even China you'll be able travel to the EU. Americans? Well, not so much. But, as "45" has indicated through words and actions we don't need no stinkin' Europe. Besides we're about to impose a new set of tariffs of 100% on stuff coming out of those nations "over there". And now that we're removing over 9,500 troops out of Germany (Without notifying German Chancellor Angela Merkel prior to the decision...manners right?) that should show them foreign speakin' folk we don't need them at all. Just another jewel in the crown of our supreme leader.

"Maybe He's Going to Quit"

It was an interesting point made last week my MSNBC morning host Joe Scarborough. He was talking about how "45" with all the disaster looming and the likelihood that he, and his party, will get swamped in November that the president is teeing off a position where he'll just...quit. Scarborough was sifting through some of the latest data and wacky decisions "45" has made in the past several weeks including using troops against U.S. citizens, the EU mess and demanding that the Supreme Court overturn the Affordable Care Act in the midst of a pandemic. "One thing is clear, the president doesn't like to lose and he just might decide that quitting is better than getting beat." While that's an delicious thought...it ain't gonna happen. 

The Lincoln Project

The silence of the vast majority of elected Republicans is overwhelming. They have fallen in line with their leader and nothing he says or does seems to make them pause in their continued fawning. But, then there is the folks behind The Lincoln Project. Perhaps you've seen the ads they have been rolling out. The group is made up of Republicans who oppose the re-election of "45" and they've been trolling the president for months. Here is their latest video:

Impressive and I know several Democrats who have now donated funds to the Lincoln Project. A recent comment from a former Union worker: "I think hell just froze over. I actually gave money to a bunch of Republicans." You are not alone me thinks. The group says they will continue to hammer the message that to save our nation we must elect Joe Biden. They are right. Go ahead...watch it again. 

Open Season

I was rolling through my news alerts the other day when this headline grabbed my attention: "On the Day George Floyd Died, Police Across the U.S. Shot and Killed At Least Five Other Men". The lead went like this: "Police in the US have not gone more than two days without fatally shooting someone since 2015." If you want to read the article from Buzz Feed News here you go. 

As the Black Lives Matter movement continues we are hearing more and more stories like this. For example if you are Black and live in the U.S. you are 2.5 times more likely to be shot and killed by the police. In addition, and this is stunning, if you are Black in America you are 2.5 times more likely to die from COVID19.

The original sin that sits at the feet of this nation continues and looking away will not change our course. Every person must call out the racial injustice whenever we see it. We must stop looking at color and start looking at humanity. 

Regarding the police...what we should be doing is remove the elements that have created this para-military force and focus on both "Protect" and "Serve". My brother, who was a police officer in another life, has said over and over again that the worst calls were those that had something to do with a "domestic disturbance" or a "mental health" issue. We should be sending trained social workers and not folks with guns. What part of that fails to make sense?

This Will Scare The Hell Out of Them

Have you seen the new census estimates for Iowa? Oh my...this will scare the hell out of folks. According to data released last week Iowa's minority population is increasing. While the state is still overwhelmingly white other folks are gaining. The data says the state population grew by 3.6% since 2010 and we are not home to some 3,155,000 people. Of those 90.62% are white, compared with 93.21% ten years ago.

Oh Oh...

Black Iowans make up a little more than 4% of the population. Asians 2.5%; people identifying as being of two or more races is 1.9% and the biggest cohort of non-whites is, again, Hispanic coming in at nearly 6.3% of the population.

Essential Workers - Expendable Wages

While the Iowa Legislature went into overdrive in the final hours of the session cooking up more voter suppression rules, jerking health care decisions away from women they were also busy protecting businesses from legal matters. Like if your Mom or Dad are in a nursing home and they die from COVID19 you can't sue the facility. And even better...if you get sick or die from COVID19 and you're working in a meat packing plant...same deal. The company is now protected. Notice a pattern? While the government proclaims nursing home workers and meat packing workers as "essential" those folks get paid "expendable wages". Rather than pay a livable wage so these businesses can recruit and retain excellent people and make sure they are safe...let's pass laws to deny their rights and put more people in jeopardy. If you are a Republican this all makes perfect sense.

Partly Personal

I'm hooked. Recently we were surfing Netflix and found the series "Somebody Feed Phil". What a delight. Phil Rosenthal, one of the creators of Everybody Loves Raymond, travels the world sampling the local food and culture. But, this is way different because Rosenthal injects some comedy and heart touching moments in each episode. He pulls it off by being genuine and warm even bringing in his wife, actress Monica Horan, and father into the show. His mother was also a regular however she died late last year from ALS. And, if you happen to be Jewish, you'll plotz at the references he makes. Go...enjoy already...you need a break.

Thanks for reading and have a superior Sunday!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

Sunday Morning Coffee 25 August 2019

Just half-a-cup of Sunday Morning Coffee today. I'm working on policy statements...several...and that has taken my focus off of the National Embarrassment that is the current President of the United States. He's in Europe...maybe he should stay.  Let's dive into just a couple of things that you may have heard...or perhaps missed.

Czar of Business

Last week "45' told U.S. corporations that he demands they leave China and bring their manufacturing to the United States. He actually "ordered" them to do that. Never mind that he really can't do that and the 1977 law he has pointed to would need congressional approval to declare a national emergency that would then, perhaps, force private corporations to pack up and move. But, let's say they did move back the the U.S.  Two questions:

• Who is going to do the work? Currently we have 7.5 million open jobs in the U.S. and only 6 million people seeking employment;
• You willing to pay double for your ________? No, didn't think so.

If anybody is moving anywhere it will be to Southeast Asia or India. Maybe then THEY will become the "Enemy of America"?

He also asked you to figure out which is the biggest "enemy" of the United States, President Xi Jinping or Fed Chair Jerome Powell. The president is miffed that the Fed didn't announce another interest rate cut, something that he has lobbied for, after last week's meeting in Wyoming.

I don't want to bore you with the details...however...should there be an economic downturn (recession) and the Fed has cut interest rates to the bone there is little it can do to "right the ship". We will have used all our tools.

Other than another tax cut. With the deficit already touching $1 trillion dollars (something that the GOP screamed about during the Obama Administration when he enacted measures to stave off a depression early in the Great Recession) that doesn't seem to be a smart move. The guy has no clue...zero.

Weary.

Tariffs and You

Now that "45" has determined that the trade war with China should escalate further the tariffs imposed and about to be imposed are going to hit your pocketbook. Until this time consumers have been spared which retail companies have, mostly, figured out ways to absorb the new taxes. But, no longer. A study out last week from JP Morgan says that the new tariffs will cost the average U.S. consumer about $1,000 to $1,500 a year. That, my friends, takes away any benefit you may (or may not) have seen with the 2017 tax cut. 

It's just...money.

All You Need To Know

Now that Sen. Charles Grassley (R-IA) and Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) have been named as "honorary co-chairs" for the re-election of "45" is all you need to  know about these people who have turned their backs on the citizens of Iowa. Meanwhile where is Sen Joni Ernst (R-IA)?  Oh, that's right...she has a tough election facing her in 2020 but you would think her slavish devotion to "45" would have gotten her a spot...too?

Public Policy Issues

While others may run on general themes regarding overall policy. I'm thinking a more direct method would be to foster a discussion on truly ground-breaking public policy ideas that will truly make a difference. Ideas that will boost the quality of life for everyday working Iowa families. 

But, here is the deal. The policies can't be "wonky". But must be clear and concise answers to the things that plague our citizens.  So, sorry for the short cup of coffee.  That's what I've been working on last night and early this morning. It takes some time.

Looking forward to Labor Day...you?

Polk County Steak Fry

It's is going to be...an event! From what I understand the Polk County Democrats Steak Fry has already generated thousands of folks who will come and celebrate the work of our local county party. I hear that we've sold tickets to nearly every state in the nation AND we'll have lots of guests from other countries. If you have not yet purchased your ticket...HERE IS THAT LINK. See you on September 21st!

Partly Personal

This was my weekend attending to the spiritual needs of my congregation in Mason City, Iowa. Each month I get to travel there for services, a community bible study program, visit the hospitals, nursing homes and private homes of the folks who are affiliated and with Adas Israel one of only ten active Jewish congregations in Iowa.

It's always incredible and moving time to spend quality time in the work of caring for the spiritual needs and questions of people there. I'm grateful for the 30+ years I've been doing this. And even more grateful for the lessons I learn along the way. 

This week I'll sit down with Congresswoman Cindy Axne (D-IA) for a far ranging conversation about her work in Washington D.C. So looking forward to that.  And, yes, we'll share. 

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday! 

SMC 23 June 2019 - The Trust Issue

Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee my weekly piece about politics, religion, gossip...you know, all the stuff you should NOT talk about. You're going to get a "short cup" today. This weekend was spent with my congregation Adas Israel in Mason City, Iowa. Then last night a rain-shortened Iowa Cubs game courtesy of some friends and this morning get ready for softball with my grand-daughter. Yikes!! Let's get into just a couple of things to think about.

The Trust Issue

There were two things that happened recently that tells me, even more clearly, that you can never, not once, trust "45". First it was that hand-wringing Pontius Pilate act about calling off a strike on Iran because it would be "disproportionate" and cause the death of "150 Iraqis". This is the same guy who is overseeing the death of migrants in concentration camps in the United States. People who are held in the most extreme conditions and he wants you to believe he suddenly has a soul?

It's an attempt to make him appear like a human.  Don't fall for it.

The Trust Issue Two

In his second attempt to appear human "45" says he has called off the ICE raids that were set to happen this weekend. I believe the real reason is because they don't have the manpower to conduct thousands of raids without the help of local law enforcement and many cities stepped up late last week and told "45" to go to hell. They were not going to allow their local officials to work with ICE.

That and I think the optics were going to be really, really bad. Knocking on doors removing part of a family and going on hunts for the rest and then sending folks off to different concentration camps. Ugly....

The Trust Issue Three

Last week I attended a private affair and visited with several of my friends who are or were elected officials and associate with the Republican Party.  We were talking about that and I asked one of my friends if he considered switching parties because, "Your public pronouncements tell me your heart is not with the GOP and your values align much more closely with the Democrats. Why stay?" He gave me the weakest answer ever, "I'm not switching." Which tells me more about his real values than you can imagine.

The Trust Issue Four

I'm getting close to making an announcement for public office. A couple of things have to line up before I dive in. I mentioned that to a former elected member of the GOP and when he asked what office, and I told him, he said to me, "Oh, him. I really like him." The follow up question from me to him was... "Why? You are in favor of underemployment, gutting working families of the right to bargain, voter suppression, massive corporate tax cuts that create reduced services for Iowa families, a disaster that has crippled the health care of thousands of people on Medicaid, the continued assault on public education? Which of those do you proudly stand for my friend?"

He just shook his head.

The Trust Issue Five

Last week Sen. Charles Grassley (R-IA) said in a committee hearing: "To be clear, American importers and consumers are paying for these tariffs," $22 billion out of the pockets of hardworking Americans is not in our national best interest.” Meanwhile his counterpart Sen. Joni Ernst (R-IA) says nothing. She is scared to death and I don't trust a single thing she says...not one. Even while ag exports from the U.S. will be down by over $2 billion according to the USDA....it's silence. Bad for Iowa.

The Trust Issue Six

I see that Ambassador Terry Branstad took a fast plane to Iowa last week so he could say he has no problems with gay people. "Those LGB people, you know." He was in a court room facing questions as to why, as Iowa governor, he cut the salary of  openly gay Workers Compensation Commissioner Chris Godfrey. Of course he is lying and he was just pissed that Mr. Godfrey challenged Branstad when Branstad demanded his resignation because he wanted to "put my team in charge". Even though the office is to be immune from politics. 

One other thing about Ambassador Branstad. Notice how quiet he has been as American's struggle with the Trump Tariffs? Not a peep about his "good friend" the President of the United States or his other "good friend" the President of China.  

Partly Personal

Sorry for the short cup this morning...duty calls. But, I will leave you with this tidbit.

For over 30 years I have served as the spiritual leader of Adas Israel the Jewish Congregation of Northern Iowa based in Mason City. Services are on Friday evenings, once a month, and the next day on Shabbat (Saturday) I hold a two hour Torah study that is open to anyone in the community. And, we have quite a mix of folks from many faiths and denominations. 

One of my newer students came up to me after class and said that I should look into teaching a section on Judaism for the North Iowa Area Community College because, "...there are so many people who have so many questions about the faith."  I was flattered and then she  said, "Besides it would be great for you to do in retirement..."

Three letters: LOL!  Not retired and got no plans for that kids.  You're stuck with me.  But...it is an intriguing offer to head back to a classroom.

Have a wonderful Sunday, off to the softball game and thanks for reading!  

Sunday Morning Coffee - 2 June 2019

Back from our time away in Florida where they drive like maniacs. No really! It seems turn signals have not yet hit the peninsula and the "speed limit" is simply a "suggestion". Yikes!  Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee my weekly take on some of the news you've seen or, perhaps, missed. Let's get started.

Tariffs

Isn't it fun? And, man, are we ever winning! To this point many Americans have just yawned when they heard about the trade war. Pretty soon you're about to wake up to a bad dream. Target, Walmart and Costco have all signaled higher prices and that was BEFORE the threat of tariffs on Mexican items.  If and when that happens look for inflationary prices hitting your grocery store. Even some in the GOP are now struggling to support "45" and his tariff tirade. Last week Sen. Charles Grassley (R-IA) finally grew some and said it was bad policy.

And, somebody please explain the economic reality to those who voted for "45". China is NOT paying those tariffs we, the consumers are. That's how it works.  But hey...we're "winning"!

Impeachment

This morning a new CNN poll came out and now 41% of Americans favor impeachment. That's up from 37% last month. It's going to take some time for citizens to come to the reality that "45" obstructed justice and must go. Me? I'm all in for impeachment proceedings. If congress fails to start the process then, I believe, our system of laws is over and we go down the road toward an imperialistic, authoritarian state. But, that is what "45" loves. Democracy be damned and let's have a military parade with goosestepping warriors. 

Meanwhile Democratic members of congress who are meeting with constituents are getting the message. There is growing discontent with the inaction of congress and voters are demanding action. It is a sudden shift on the part of the electorate and it has been building since Robert Mueller spoke last week and, basically, said the ball is in the court of congress. 

Medicare for All

I wasn't at the meeting...I was dodging traffic in Florida... but I understand that the Medicare for All Task Force created by the Polk County Iowa Democrats is kaput. What's interesting about this decision by the body is that this group has been meeting and reporting to the elected delegates for two years without a hint of rejection. Now it's gone. What might have changed? My guess is...Joe Biden. Suddenly there was a call to dissolve the task force because, "it's a policy of a particular candidate and the body can not endorse one candidate's policy over others". Never mind that it is a good policy. Never mind that many in the field of candidates support Medicare for All. No, we can not hold the policy of a particular candidate aloft. That candidate? Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT). The "establishment" has spoken once again. Isn't winning fun?

To be clear, I was not at the meeting. I'm getting this from my brother who was recently selected to chair the Medicare for All Task Force which had been moving at a glacier pace but suddenly had caught fire. Just my conjecture.

The Name Game

My real business is advertising/marketing. We create the message that creates a desire on the part of consumers for our clients products or service. Been doing this for a very, very long time. That preface is due because I've never been a fan of calling universal health care for America by the moniker of "Medicare for All". It rings flat for those under the age of 60. "Who the hell cares about Medicare? I'm 35 and in great health..." Until you are not. Medicare for All was cooked up because folks thought it easy to explain. I'd rather have us call it what it really is "Universal Health Care". Again, just my opinion...based on what I do for a living. Let's move on.

Virginia Beach

Our society is quite sick and we are not safe from each other. It would seem that mutual respect, a willingness to have conversation over confrontation is gone. Evil is with us and it seems to be everywhere. There are no words.

The Business of Guns

Long before the most recent mass murder I sat down with Tom Hudson from Crossroads Shooting Sports for an interview about the business of guns. As many of you know I produce and host a daily newscast about business; something I've done for nearly seven years. So, I was interested in this topic. You might also have an interest. To listen, click this link. I'll tell you, in advance, that some of the statistics mentioned later in the interview seem a bit sketchy based on common knowledge. Anyway, I found the conversation to be enlightening especially the reasons given for the slow down of firearm purchases. Here, again, is that link.

CBD and Iowa

Last week Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) vetoed legislation that would have expanded the amount of THC (the effective compound in CBD-based treatments) from three grams to up to 25 grams in a 90-day period. In her statement Reynolds said, "it would drastically expand Iowa’s medical CBD program far beyond its original scope of CBD-based treatments and that could open the door to significant unintended consequences to the health and safety of Iowans."

Look, I don't know but it would seem to me that Iowa should be doing all we can to assist those folks who have chronic pain issues. Some members of the Iowa Legislature are itching to go back to work and override the veto. We'll see. But, in a state where you can roll up to nearly any convenience store along the interstate and buy liquor this seems to be an issue that is more misunderstood than anything. Thoughts?

Partly Personal

Getting back in the swing of things following nearly ten days out is a challenge. There is so much to be done before a vacation and much more to be done when getting back. The weird thing is that I was still responsible for producing Insight on Business the News Hour when I was gone. On vacation but still up before dawn to write and produce. But, I learned a valuable lesson. For years I would stop my "real job" to write the news and then create the newscast and get it out by 5pm Central. But, when gone this time I switched things up and put the  podcast out before noon each day. The result was a surge in listeners. And, when you think about it, that makes sense. More time to digest the business news before the business day ends. And, for the timely stuff like the markets...that went out via social media twice each hour in real time. Interesting how habits can keep one from innovation.

Thanks for reading and sorry about the commercial.  Have a great Sunday!