SundayMorningCoffee

Sunday Morning Coffee 24 October 2021

Hello...and yes, a bit late today. So much going on these days. Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee on a rainy October day. Glad you're here for a bit of news and opinion all wrapped up in this weekly visit.  As always, should you have comments let them fly. Let's go!

Portugal 

While COVID19 infections continue to ravage parts of the U.S. and the U.K. the county of Portugal is giving us a glimpse of what the future might look like if only...we had the guts and willingness to do so.  According to a Wall Street Journal article out today Portugal is giving us some lessons. There close to 100% of the people over the age of 50 have received at least one vaccine dose. For those between the ages of 25 and 49 it is 95% and from age 12 to 17 the vaccination rate is 88%.  There are 10 million people in Portugal and 98% have had at least one dose.  If you want to read that article I've linked it on my Twitter account or you can click here. (Image: Yahoo News)

Meanwhile here in the U.S. only 65% have had one dose and in the U.K 73%. 

On October 1 Portugal ditched most of it's Covid containment rules...but masks are still required on public transportation, folks must show proof of vaccination at large events in this soccer crazed nation, handpumps for disinfectant gel are everywhere. Meanwhile the U.K. has abandoned COVID19 rules and cases and deaths continue to mount. Here in the U.S. doctors are saying that 100% of those who present at emergency rooms are not vaccinated and they are taking up beds that could be used for other serious illnesses and/or accidents.

How absurd and how selfish are we?  Please for others, for the economy for the health of our nation...get your vaccine.

Fiddling

In some ways our economy in the U.S. is starting to get back to pre-pandemic times. Yet some states lag. Meanwhile the most important piece of legislation that would have a positive impact on the lives of Americans languishes in the U.S. Senate because the of the awful idea of the filibuster where a minority can rule the majority. And, when it comes to voting...forget about it. It's clear the GOP does not trust you to vote and will do everything in it's power to make it more difficult or impossible...at least for "some people". That the two senators from Iowa disregard the economic future of this state and stand in the way of allowing people full access to the right of voting is unconscionable but...predictable.  Chuck and Joni...fiddle while our state and nation cry out.

But, But...

While the Iowa Legislature and the Iowa Governor have done their best to restrict voting many of us are fighting back but there are many hurdles.

Here is one: I was knocking doors and came across two women who vote regularly but had not gotten a absentee ballot request (ABR). I had some with me and it was just two days before the October 18 deadline to request a ballot. (a GOP suppression move.) One of the women had her state issued ID card. She is 88 and long ago gave up driving. We were able to fill out her ABR but the other woman, who is 94, did not have ID nor could we find her Voter ID card with her number.  I was able to take the complete VBR to the County Auditor and she did get an absentee ballot but my other friend...nope. So, yes, we will make it so she can get out and go vote and I will stand with her and testify that she is who she is... But really people at 94 you have to go through this crap just to...vote?  Shameful.

And you KNOW this story is being repeated over and over again all across this state and others that are in GOP control.

Partly Personal

So much to do today so cutting this a bit short.  As you may know the UAW is on strike against John Deere. Workers rejected a contract
that was not in their best interests. For example workers would not see a raise after five years on the job. Really? Meanwhile John Deere is
posting record profits.  Going out on strike isn't easy. Working families don't get a paycheck but life goes on.  That's why many of us have made donations to the cause. The Polk County Democrats have sent over $1,000 in non-perishable food, diapers and other items to the UAW Local 450 Union Hall in Des Moines. They asked for others to chip in and so I delivered about $200 worth of items to the hall and visited with the striking family members.  You can help as well. If it's not food and supplies how about a cash donation...folks still have to pay for heat and lights and rent. If you can...please do.  Here is a LINK for an ACT BLUE account where you can make that donation.  

One thing is for sure. The striking workers are doing this for you as well. The reduction in union workers has impacted the middle class in significant ways such as no real increase in wages since the 1970's when adjusted for inflation. That is a direct result of "Right to Work" laws...  But, people are starting to realize that record profits do not translate into higher wages and union participation is seeing a resurgence. Once again, if you can help...please do.  Any help is a BIG HELP.  

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 17 October 2021

Welcome back to Sunday Morning Coffee my regular attempt to comment on some of the news you've seen or, perhaps, missed. Let's get into it and, as always, you've got a comment...feel free to post.  Thanks!

We Are Confused

It seems the pundits are convinced that the electorate (you and me) are "confused" when it comes to President Biden's "Build Back Better" program. They are telling us that we are focused on the price tag of $3.5 trillion dollars and that means there will be a massive tax increase. I ain't buying it. From the beginning the president has been clear that the package has a host of programs that poll very positive among us. Stuff like:

• Child Care - Funding for safe and secure child care so folks can get back to work...boosts the economy;
• Broadband - Funding for internet access so people and businesses can connect...boosts the economy;
• Clean Water - Funding to remove lead pipes and clean up ground water...boosts health efforts/economy;
• College - Funding for community colleges to create better opportunities and jobs...boosts the economy;
• Climate Change - Funding to reduce our dependence on fossil fuel & go sustainable...boosts life;
• Infrastructure -  A massive jobs program that will put millions into good paying jobs...boosts the economy.

I'm not confused...you?

The Cost

What are we willing to do to create jobs, put people back to work, build our economy? In 1936 President Roosevelt oversaw the creation of the Rural Electrification Act. The goal was to bring electricity to rural parts of the nation. At first it was labeled as being "socialist" but the benefits of having electricity in rural parts of the country was popular. Billions of dollars were spent running power to remote parts of our nation. Today, we take all of that for granted.  The Build Back Better Proposal is part of this history.

The Interstate Highway System - The 41,000 mile system was first funded by $26 billion in today's money that is $2.5 trillion.  How is/was it paid for? Gasoline taxes.  When it was proposed by President Eisenhower it was called "socialist" but the idea was sold as a defense program so, of course, that made it just fine.  The Build Back Better Proposal is also a part of this history.

The Space Program - Billions and billions of dollars were and have been spent on this over the years. The Apollo Program alone (1960 - 1973) cost $482 billion in todays dollars.  Anybody complain about that?  The Build Back Better Proposal is part of this history.

Taxes

No, if your family makes under $400,000 a year you will not see one dime more in income taxes. Done, plain and simple. BUT if you are wealthy the proposal is to increase your federal tax rate to...actually way less than it was in the 1950's and 1960's. Here are the facts for cryin' out loud:

• President Joe Biden has proposed a 39.6% top marginal income tax rate, up from the current 37%, to help fund the American Families Plan.
• That rate would affect single individuals with taxable income of more than $452,700 and married couples filing jointly with income over $509,300, according to a budget proposal.
• The top rate is slated to increase to 39.6% after 2025 even if Congress doesn’t pass Biden’s proposal.

So...stop it.  Just stop...this proposal will do more for the average working family than anything we've seen in our lifetime.

I'm done...

Partly Personal

Spent a great weekend in Mason City working with the congregation there.  Today it's knocking doors, planting signs and meeting voters in Windsor Heights.  Learn more about that at www.MichaelLibbie.com 

Gotta go..have a great Sunday! 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 10 October 2021

Now THAT was some football game! The Iowa Hawkeyes over Penn State by a score of 23 - 20. Two things: The Iowa defense was amazing, again, and their QB getting knocked out of the game with an injury...well.  The Hawks now go to 6 - 0 and the folks that know something about this stuff say they should go on to finish undefeated. But, one game at a time...right?  Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee (sorry got sidetracked) politics commentary.  Let's go!

The Big Lie - Back in Town

They were there fawning for "The King" as one person called the 45th president. Some guy from Ankeny said, "He loves America and he loves Jesus..." Really?  Married three times, multiple affairs, lawsuits for rape...  Then there is Dan Gable the former Iowa wrestling coach. Don't get me started. Meanwhile Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) was on hand to chum it up with her buddy. And then Sen. Charles Grassley (R-IA) was all in.  Here's the deal:

The elected have seen the poll numbers and they realize that 97% of the GOP love this guy and 53% of Iowans have a favorable opinion of the man who incited a riot at the Capital, soiled our international reputation, scoffed at a pandemic that has killed over 600,000 Americans, gave a massive tax cut to the wealthy and turned his back on working class families. Really?  Politics is amazing...

Big Lie Number Two

I was involved in a large virtual gathering last week. It was not political. Prior to starting I was listening to some cross-talk as somebody had their mic open and I think was speaking to somebody on the phone.  Here is what she said, "They don't want to work anymore. There are places who are hiring but those people are getting fat and lazy through all the money the government is throwing at them. It is awful, just awful..." She too has bought into the Second Big Lie. Here is the reality:

• Moved On - People who were employed at low wage jobs have decided they no longer can live that way and they have moved on to other fields;
• They're Out - Women have not returned to the workforce because...states like Iowa have made it impossible for their kids to go back to school...safely. When local or state government passes laws that keep schools unsafe Mom is not sending their kiddo back;
• Free Money - The expanded unemployment benefits have gone away. Remember how that was going to "drive people back to work"? Nope. People are tired of poor pay, lousy benefits, impossible schedules, angry guests...  See reason number one.

But, when all you do is listen to insurrectionist media...you get both Big Lies. However, if you are interested in the economics of what is really going on...here is ISU economist Dave Swenson with his take.

Partly Personal

I'm sorry...these are going to be really short for the next several Sunday's.  I'm running a write-in campaign for the Windsor Heights City Council and there is so much to do.  If you don't know the story here is that video:

If you know some folks in Windsor Heights, Iowa...remind them and perhaps a good word?

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday!

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 12 September 2021

I was able to, last night, catch up with some of the moving tributes to the 9/11 victims. Presidents Bush, Clinton, Obama and Biden and their remarks. So many emotions. And, remember their families live with this reality every day.  Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee politics, opinion with a dash of religion.  Why not....

The Debt Ceiling

Well, here we go. In days gone by raising the debt ceiling was (mostly) a bipartisan given. Sure the GOP would grumble but in the end. This time it may be different. Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY) is saying that his caucus will not vote to raise the debt. So what happens if we default because of politics?  If the debt ceiling is not lifted, then the federal government will technically default on some of its obligations. It would be forced to prioritize payments, deciding who will get paid and who won't.

Ultimately, someone will lose out, whether it's federal employees, veterans, Social Security recipients or defense contractors. Bless his heart.

New Poll

There is a new poll out that indicates Republicans want "45" to run for president in 2024.  The Hill is reporting that Fifty-six percent of registered Republican voters said they'd consider casting their ballots for the former (and failed) president in the next GOP primary.

Twenty-eight percent said they would consider former Vice President Mike Pence, while Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and Sen. Ted Cruz tied for third place. Weary...what a cast of clowns.

The Religious Exemption

Last week President Biden took off the gloves in an effort to save more American lives. New orders are that people must be vaccinated or face some tough choices. The same with employers. Good.  For those of you who decide to not become vaccinated you are doing a number of things: 1) Putting others in danger; 2) If you get sick you rob a hospital bed for others who have had a stroke, a heart attack or serious injury; 3) The death of another person in on you...yes...you.  

Meanwhile, and this is interesting, Keiser Health News is reporting that this idea of a "religious exemption" to the vaccine is pure...bunk. "No major denomination opposes vaccination. Even the Christian Science Church, whose adherents rely largely on prayer rather than medicine, does not impose an official policy. It counsels “respect for public health authorities and conscientious obedience to the laws of the land, including those requiring vaccination.”

In other words...crackpots and charlatans, once again, using "religion" as an excuse. Shameful...

Dave Muhlbauer 

I have learned, from a good source, that Dave Muhlbauer has suspended his campaign for the U.S. Senate due to a recent death in the family. It seems that taking care of the farm is going to take more time than campaigning. This doesn't mean that he is out but, as they say, watch this space.

This, if it is accurate, may open the door for former Admiral Mike Franken who came in second during the 2020 Democratic Primary losing to Theresa Greenfield. The Polk County (Iowa) Steak Fry is just a week away. If Franken is going to announce it will, or should, happen before that major event.  Stay tuned.

BTW, if you have not yet gotten your 2021 Steak Fry Tickets here is that link.

49+ Candidates

Speaking of Polk County it looks like there are 49 or, perhaps, 50 Democrats running for city council or school board seats. Following years of letting Republicans have free rein across the county when it comes to city council, boards and commissions the Democrats are fighting back in a big way. For those of you who complain and whine that "these are non-partisan races" that is complete nonsense. 

Among the GOP candidates there are  plenty of anti-maskers, conspiracy theorists and anti-vaxers seeking your vote and that...is just scary.

Andrea Phillips

Here's the deal: We have a major shot at gaining a seat in the Iowa House. Andrea Phillips of Ankeny has been working like crazy as has her entire team. The special election is 14 September...like TUESDAY.  Please if you can knock doors, call, text...let's do this.  You can reach Mary McAdams and the campaign right here.  Go...now...do.  It is all about getting out the vote. We have this...go!

Partly Personal

It is the Sunday before Yom Kippur which begins on Wednesday evening at sundown. I'll be out and with my congregation in Mason City. Here is wishing you a positive and meaningful holiday. 

I'll be out of pocket today as well. Headed to Indianola to "call" a game for my granddaughter's team. Not sure how long this will go but will be back to work for Andrea later. I know...right? There is an app called "Game Changer" and last year I was tapped to do the play-by-play. It was fun...even though I've never called sports.  Anyway our daughter, Hunter, created this stats book with all the players information and a host of "color" commentary.  It's really cool.  So, yeah...see you soon Indianola.

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 5 September 2021 - Labor Day

It's the Labor Day Weekend...the time that was created for mattress sales. It is supposed to be about celebrating the efforts of labor
unions who have made the lives better for millions of Americans but, for some reason you have allowed corporations to dictate and in many places ceded our right to organize. Congratulations. Jeff Bezos wins and you...don't. Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee...warning, I'm in a mood today.

FreeDumb

And it continues as millions of people deny the rights of the majority and demand their FreeDumb from vaccination efforts. It's September and soon we'll head back inside there will be Halloween Parties, Thanksgiving Dinners, Christmas Gatherings and funerals. It makes no sense...none. Meanwhile businesses are starting to get the hint that vaccinated people contribute more to the economy than dead people so they are doubling down on vaccine mandates. Some are even hiking insurance premiums for those who are unvaccinated. Good for them. You want your FreeDumb from vaccination?  Pay up.

Ya gotta wonder how long it will be before Gov. Greg Abbott (R-TX) or Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) ban that practice...right?

Speaking of Texas

This is interesting. The Texas anti-abortion bill is causing all sorts of issues…one of the latest involves Uber and Lyft.

Lyft executives plan to create a legal-defense fund for drivers in response to a Texas law that severely restricts abortions, and rival Uber Technologies is doing the same. Lyft CEO Logan Green made the announcement on Twitter adding that the ride-hailing company would also donate $1 million to Planned Parenthood.

Less than two hours later Uber released a statement that they too were starting a legal fund for drivers.

They Cheered

Recently Rep. Jim Jordan (R-OH) was in Iowa stumping for the 45th president. He's the guy who talks to "45" often but can't remember if he spoke to him or how many time he spoke to him on the 6th of January. Anyway, he was in the Hawkeye State for a GOP event and when he said that he believed "45" will mount another campaign for president the people cheered. So, nope, like COVID it ain't over. Weary...

Oh yeah...guess who introduced Jordan?  Dan Gable...I wish I had better news.... (Image: KCCI TV8)

Unemployment & Jobs

Very soon lots (millions) of people will lose their enhanced unemployment benefits. It's the way we force people to get off their lazy butts and get a job. Except it doesn't seem to be working that way. In the states that have already stopped benefits the job numbers are about the same as the states that did not. In other words that stick ain't workin'.

On Friday the Labor Department released the August Jobs Report and the U.S. added only 235,000 jobs last month…well off the mark set by Wall Street economists…they had predicted the creation of 720,000 jobs.  Getting the blame in all of this is the rising cases of the Delta Variant of COVID19 as employees and employers continue to register concern about getting back to normal.

Meanwhile record numbers of Americans are voluntary quitting their jobs. Why? Because they have had it with low wages, lousy working conditions, crappy benefits...what they should be doing is organizing. (Image: Yahoo News) 

Nursing Home Training

Back in the day I was taken to task by the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals because they saw me delivering food trays to people in the long term care facility where I held the license. Actually, it was more than that.  They witnessed me actually feeding a resident who could not help herself. They took me aside and said, "You can not do that you are not a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)." No, but it's my name on the administrators license... No matter, rules are rules.  "You have to be trained to do direct patient care."  You see, the State of Iowa requires 75 hours of training time, including 30 hours of clinical work. CNAs must then take and successfully pass the CNA competency exams.

Except now you don't. 

The nursing home industry has successfully, for years, been guilty of underpaying staff and running their facilities with fewer and fewer CNA's. Now, rather than actually pay the people more they have convinced the state that folks don't need that mandated education to do direct patient care...so it's been scrapped. So if you're tired of cutting up meat at the packing plant head on over to the nursing home. You're still an "essential worker" who will be  paid...squat.

House District 37

Hello Ankeny...we're talking about YOU!  Friday night saw folks flocking to the stadium as Ankeny took on Ankeny Centennial in a football game. Centennial won 14 - 7. Lots of folks turned out for this the first head to head local match up.  They were, shall we say, motivated.

In my time knocking doors for Andrea Phillips, who is running for an open seat in the Iowa Legislature there, I was (not) surprised at how many people had no idea there is a special election on September 14. But there is...and we've got a great chance of flipping that seat. Andrea has name recognition, she's a seasoned campaigner and she has veteran organizer Mary McAdams running the show there.  The issue is not lack of "want" the issue is a lack of motivation...or maybe people just do not...care.

I do...and so should you. We've seen what happens when the state puts their future in the hands of the back-sliding Republican group who is in the majority in both the House and Senate. Iowa moves in a very bad direction from health care to voting, to education. You can make a difference Ankeny.  You. Here is the website for Andrea Phillips...go...volunteer. 

Partly Personal

Later today it's Flash Dine Des Moines. My Bride and her friend Carla Pope have been up to their necks in planning the event. It's not a huge crowd and everyone is expected to be in their "pod". Last year the event was cancelled...this year it's on.  Perhaps we'll see you? Rules are pretty simple: 1) Everybody wears white; 2) You bring your own table, chairs, decorations; 3) You bring your own food and drink and we're out of there by 8PM.  Where is it going to be held?  You need to head to FlashDineDSM on Facebook.

Heading to Mason City tomorrow for Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. And, nope there will not be hats and horns. It is the start of the ten days that leads up to Yom Kippur the Day of Atonement and the most holy day on the Jewish Calendar. We did not meet last year and this year social distancing and vaccinations are required.  Sorry governor. 

Have a great Sunday and let's try to remember what Labor Day really means.  Thanks for reading.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 29 August 2021

Politics and Opinion...it's what I get to do each Sunday Morning.  Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee with some of the news you've seen or, perhaps, missed all laced with my commentary. Why?  Why not...right?  Let's go!

Super Spreaders All

Well the Iowa State Fair is over...nearly one-million folks decided to chance it as hospitals in the area are filling. Meanwhile we're seeing that South Dakota held the Sturgis event that brought several hundred thousand people to the community. Masks? Nah! Testing? Nah! Vaccines? "Nah, I'd rather get a tattoo!" Meanwhile it's college football season where thousands of fans will flock to games in states with lousy vaccine numbers. It's going to be an interesting September.

Waste Water

Here is something special. The City of Des Moines, Iowa has been conducting tests of the waste water to detect levels of the coronavirus. And...gosh...guess what?  The sample taken two weeks ago had double the amount of virus than in the sample four weeks ago and nine times that of a sample taken in early July. Congratulations to "My Body - My Choice" folks! The most selfish people on the planet. Not only are you contributing to the spread you are also contributing to hospitals becoming full and not being able to care for people who have other serious medical conditions. "I just worry about the long term effects of the vaccine..." Have you seen the long term effects of COVID? Please....

California Recall Election

What a goofy idea. Gov. Gavin Newsome (D-CA) may lose a recall election. The law says that people can vote "Yes" or "No" if the governor should be recalled. If they vote "No" they are done. If they vote "Yes" they get to choose from over three dozen candidates on the ballot. The one that gets the most votes becomes governor.  So, follow this:  52% of the voters say that Newsome should be recalled. Then the candidate that gets the most votes...wins the election. Even if only 15% of the people vote for him/her.  How is that democracy?  The leading candidate projected to win....if Newsome loses the recall...is a far right radio talk-show host who is Black and who is also a "White Supremacist".  Wrap your head around that...  

Afghanistan

I know you Monday Morning Quarterbacks are at it. Polls show that President Biden is floundering and below the red-line of 50% approval. Some, even from his own party, are calling for him to resign. Are you all crazy?  Well, yes...I know you are. It's really easy to throw rocks when you're not the one making decisions.  So, I suspect you are all in for expending more American lives fighting an unending and unwinnable war?  Twenty years people and if there is a failure it is our own failure for believing we could transform that messy nation into a democracy. Hell, we're trying our best to destroy this democracy.  Weary....

Partly Personal

I know...really short today. It's been a busy weekend already. I was in Mason City tending to the congregation there and what a great experience that was. We held an in person service and then yesterday a two hour session on the Torah Reading of the week. Always enlightening and interesting. Only those vaccinated were welcome and we did social distance.

Running for public office is tough. Been there...done that. Today I'm off to Ankeny to knock doors for Andrea Phillips who is running for the Iowa House. The special election is September 14 and it could very well be a pick-up for the Democrats in Polk County. People from all over the state have come to Ankeny to help out.  If you are able here is her website.  If you can help in any way...please do.  It matters.

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday.  

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 8 August 2021

I think today is the final day for the 2020 Olympics. "I think" because I've not seen a minute of the games this year. Not to say I don't enjoy sport and I do get the news highlights.  Looks like I'm not alone. Last Sunday’s NBC audience of 13 million was down 51% from the 26.7 million who watched the corresponding night in Rio.  It's been that way from the start. Let's move on....

Infrastructure Week

Looks like this is it. 18 members of the GOP Senate voted with Democrats to end debate and more on to a vote. Trouble is there are still some outliers. Sen. Bill Hagerty (R-TN) he is against speeding up the vote because of the dollars this adds to the deficit. He was the U.S. Ambassador to Japan when the 2017 Tax and Jobs Act was passed that cut taxes and added trillions to the deficit. Didn't make a peep.  Can't trust them...not one bit.

Should this roll through, and I think it will, we've got a real chance at building back our country from rural to urban. This will mean great jobs for so many people and just what we need. It's a big deal folks.  Next up: Much needed help for working families. (Image: Engineering News Report)

Black Unemployment

The U.S. added nearly one million jobs back in July said the Labor Department on Friday. Champaign corks were popping all over. But, there is a but.  Black unemployment numbers are still terrible. Stay with me on this because it matters.

Nearly 250,000 African Americans left the workforce and the total number employed fell by 12,000 - a measure that rose solidly for whites, Hispanics and Asians.

The numbers indicate the drop in the Black unemployment rate was driven not by more people finding jobs, but by a rise in the number of people setting their job searches aside. The share of Black people either working or looking for work, known as the labor force participation rate, also fell 0.8 point last month to 60.8%. 

Equal opportunity remains...unequal. (Image: Brookings Institute) 

No Shot, No Service

We’ve all seen the signs…No Shoes, No Shirt…No Service.  Well, you can now add something else to that well known sign:  No Shot…No Service.

It’s becoming more popular all across the United States but the question is…how do you “prove” you are vaccinated?

You can carry around one of those flimsy CDC pieces of paper but, what if you lose it or leave it at home?  Here is a quick tip. Take a photo of it with your smart phone and then keep it in your favorite file. That was, if you lose it, you can go back to the clinic or department and request a new one. And, in these early days of providing proof many businesses are accepting the image. But...some may not. There are apps out there one is VaxYes.com and here is the link. Please know that I get nothing for that suggestion...just passing it along. (Image - Atlanta Journal-Constitution) 

Richard Trumka

Last week we lost a giant in the battle for working families and a fair shake at work. Richard Trumka the AFL/CIO President died suddenly of a heart attack while camping with his family. He was 72. Trumka rose through the ranks of the labor movement the "old school" way. He worked and worked to defend organized labor no matter what group. I remember watching him beam in to several Iowa AFL/CIO meetings where he could not attend in person. What happens next? Stay tuned.

Schools in Iowa

School starts soon. Good luck with that as Iowa continues to see higher infection rates of the Delta variant. But, don't expect Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) to adjust her wishes that despite science we should allow school districts to use their best judgement. It ain't gonna happen unless Gov. Greg Abbott (R-TX) tells her to do it. Who, by the way, has a mess on his hands regarding immigration. But it does make one wonder what really goes on at those governor conferences....

The Great Iowa State Fair

On the show Friday we were talking about the Iowa State Fair, something that I truly love, and I was asked if I was going this year. The answer is a clear...nope. Not gonna do it. As much as I would love to hang around the cattle barn and have a beer or three at Stockman's just can't bring myself to mix and mingle that much. Besides the fair is installing metal detectors at the entrances. What about my pocket knife and.... Have a great time sorry to miss out again this year. 

Flipping Ankeny!

We've got a real shot come September 14. Recently John Landon (R-Ankeny) died in office from what I'm told has been a long battle with cancer. The governor has set September 14 as a special election day for the Ankeny, Iowa seat. And, we've got a great candidate ready to roll. Andrea Phillips who raised all kinds of cash in her 2020 bid is back and she needs all of our help. Doesn't matter where you live you can make calls, knock doors, chip in. We can flip this seat and Andrea is the person to do that. Don't put this off, we've only got a month.  Go now to AndreaForIowa.com and sign up. It's critical my friends. 

Partly Personal

I have a hand-held Sony voice recorder that has been with me for years. I had a bit of time last week and plugged it in to my computer and up popped dozens of interviews I'd done going as far back as 2014. Among them was then Vice President Joe Biden as he rode into Des Moines with the Nuns on the Bus. Remember?  What a hoot as he explained why he said yes for making the trip. The clip below is just three minutes long. Enjoy.

Joe Biden September 2014 DSM Nuns on the Bus

Gotta go. I hear my Bride has a long list of projects.

Have a great Sunday and remember...Andrea for Iowa!

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 25 July 2021

On a hot and humid morning like this maybe your Sunday Morning Coffee should be...iced?  Hey, thanks for coming back to this weekly bit of news and opinion post. Always grateful that you take a few minutes to indulge in this effort. Grab a cup and let's go...

Disturbing

I caught a Tweet early this morning regarding the many, many incidents where former president "45" has been accused of sexual impropriety with women and even young girls. I'll admit I've not paid much attention to all of this because once the Access Hollywood tape came out and there was zero impact on his candidacy I figured nobody cared. And, that's true. But now the links between he and Epstein and others is back in...well...the "internet news". It's disturbing that all of this buzz is happening. I think it points out how the rich and famous just seem to be able to slip past law enforcement. The "long arm of the law" gets pretty short...it would seem. (Photo - The Guardian) 

Freedumb

There are demonstrations going on in Australia, France, Germany and of course here in the United States where people are demanding freedom from mask wearing, from lockdowns and from getting the COVID19 vaccine. Meanwhile there are daily reports about physicians in various parts of the world who report they are heartbroken when, just ahead of intubating a sick patient, the patient begs for the vaccine but the doctor says, "It's too late..."

I've often thought that if COVID19 had first been infecting children rather than older folks that our national response might have been vastly different. But, then again, one can not reason with some people. That and our overwhelming desire to have everything "right now" doesn't mix with the an issue that requires a "long term" fix.  Frustrating...and scary.

Bipartisanship - Dead

I'm sure that President Biden longs for the "good old days" when Democrats and Republicans could actually sit down and hammer out solutions to problems plaguing our nation. Somebody needs to take a simple message to Joe, "Mr. President, bipartisanship is dead and no matter what you try their is no hope for resuscitation." The GOP does not want certain folks to vote. The GOP cares not one bit about good paying jobs, health care, child care, education or the fiscal welfare of our nation. Last week Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY) said so when he started saying that if the Democrats want to raise the "debt ceiling" they are going to have to stop trying to pass legislation to help America prosper.  Voting for the GOP is a fast track to destruction.

Meanwhile - Charles Booker

As long as we're visiting about Kentucky you should know about Charles Booker who has just launched his U.S. Senate campaign to kick Sen. Ron Paul (R-KY) to the curb. Booker, a former state legislator, lost a primary to an "establishment Democrat" who then was trounced by McConnell. That has been the reality of Kentucky politics for decades. Democrats, wishing to play it safe, get swept aside because they play "Republican Light". Booker is different. He is coming out of the chute with a full on progressive agenda embracing a social and economic justice message, saying: “We can make freedom mean that every community across Kentucky is thriving with good-paying union jobs. That we’re not just working to struggle less, but that we’re owning, we’re creating, we’re building pathways to wealth all over Kentucky.” I like it! (Photo: WDRB)

Meanwhile - Abby Finkenauer

Also launching a serious campaign, this one against Sen. Charles Grassley (R-IA), (Maybe...he has not indicated he is running again.) is former Congresswoman Abby Finkenauer the one-term Democrat that lost to Ashley Hinson as Republicans swept Iowa. Former president "45" won the state by 8%, and Republicans secured three of four House seats. Hinson has since hitched her wagon to "The Big Lie" among other crazy stuff.  But, remember Iowa is now a "deep red" state.  So, how is Abby going to run?  Will she take a page out of the progressive wing of the party or stick to "GOP Light"?  Finkenauer is the second Democrat to enter the race. Former Crawford County Supervisor Dave Muhlbauer announced in May. On the other side, Iowa Sen. Jim Carlin, (R-Sioux City), announced in February that he would seek the GOP nomination for the seat...that ain't going to be successful but he says he's in. (Photo - Video Announcement Still from Bleeding Heartland)

Partly Personal

Last week I got to travel to Mason City for my work with Congregation Adas Israel. What was remarkable about this trip was that new people have found us...and they are...hold on...Jewish!  One of the interesting things about Adas Israel is the number of "seekers" who come to services and our Midrash (Study Session). Folks who just want to know more about being Jewish or, perhaps, have some story in their life that might indicate a long dead relative was Jewish or people who have a desire to simply learn. That new people have found us is really a big deal. Now the work to keep them active and engaged continues.  I'm just thrilled and it shows that a bit of social media work...works.  Here is a link to the Adas Israel Blog.

As I was writing this I learned of the death of Carla Offenberger the wife of my dear friend Chuck Offenberger. While it was expected, Carla has been battling cancer for several years, it is still painful. For those who were fortunate enough to know her and for those of who were touched by her writing...she will be missed.  May her memory be a blessing. 

Thanks for reading....

Michael

Sunday Morning Coffee 18 July 2021

And, a good Sunday Morning to you! Welcome back to Sunday Morning Coffee a brief look at some of the political news stories you may have seen, or missed, all laced with my commentary. Why?  Why not...right? Let's go!

Really People?

A new Monmouth Poll showed that 64% of people who falsely think that Biden won because of voter fraud also have not received a vaccine dose. Think of that for a moment. How is this possible? Look to the media types that, without proof, are fanning the flames and not only killing people with their "news" but also continuing to divide this nation.  To break it down, according to this poll the folks that believe Biden stole the presidency AND have not gotten a vaccine amount to 32% of the country.  That...is staggering...and dangerous.

Smallpox

I suspect you don't worry much about getting smallpox. Back in the day, 3 out of every 10 people who got it died. People who survived usually had scars, which were sometimes severe. So what happened to smallpox?  Due to a major vaccination program taken up by the United States the last natural outbreak of smallpox in the United States occurred in 1949. And, in 1980, the World Health Assembly declared smallpox eradicated (eliminated), and no cases of naturally occurring smallpox have happened since.

That is science and think of this: If the misinformation of today had invaded the U.S. in the 1940's smallpox would still be with us and still killing millions. The same story is true with polio. Science helped this nation recover from that terrible disease that ran rampant in the 1050's.  Today, if would seem, we are way too dumb to realize what is at stake.  Weary...

Voting Rights

Let's face it, Republicans simply fear your vote. Well, they fear the votes that are cast by people of color so they work night and day to pass voting restrictions. In states like Iowa and sixteen others they cloak their anti-democracy work by lying and saying it's about "voter integrity". That is pure BS. They know it and so do you.  The next time you come face to face with a politician aligned with the GOP just ask them why they fear democracy. I promise you the answer is complete nonsense. Right Chuck and Joni?  We need the U.S. Senate to step up and protect our nation and protect the vote. The voting rights bill must be passed or, I fear we are doomed.

Speaking of Doomed

Red meat. Back in the day, before Iowa was such an awful place, we would hear, from time to time, partisan talk from our governor. But usually it was just lies to get the Democrats to buy into their legislation. Take, for example, the lies told by former Gov. Terry Branstad (R-IA) about the commercial property tax bill of 2012. He and his party conned the Democrats into voting for it by lying and saying, "If you pass this bill landlords will reduce the rent they charge so the working class folks you represent will get a break." Of course that didn't happen but the Democrats fell for it. Silly people...

That was usually how the GOP dealt with the Democrats...just lie to them but play nice about it. The outcome was that the governor could pretend that he was a governor for all the people and go on to get elected time after time by huge majorities. Well, welcome to 2021. Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) has abandoned that strategy and now baits her base with talk about communism and socialism and the danger of the Democratic Party. All lies but it does froth up the GOP. Given the fact that, in Iowa, there are now 49,557 more active Republicans than Democrats she feels pretty safe.

But, that's not all. The real reason Reynolds feels safe about baiting Iowans with red meat is because Democrats don't vote in numbers as strong as Republicans. Pretty simple. And, because the GOP have become such experts at lying...about everything...they swing many independent voters to their side.  Hey...I'm just hear to point out reality.

Your Job

So, what do we Democrats do? How about stop being weak. How about we stop playing nice. How about we call them for what they are? How about pointing to our lagging economic numbers? How about telling the truth that Iowa is not a good place for business because when business seeks to employ smart, educated workers one look at the goofy laws in this state tells them to go elsewhere.

Your job now becomes the back-stop to the continual dismantling of our great state. Remember when we had world-class public education? Remember when voting was a prized right for us all? Remember when Iowa showed the world how to treat immigrants with love and compassion? Remember when we had a good health-care system that actually treated Iowans and paid health care providers?  Yeah...that Iowa.

We've got several folks who are openly or hinting at running for governor. But, if we go at this by playing "nice" and we don't recruit folks to run for city elections, school boards, the legislature that will take the battle, with force, to the public. We are...doomed. Let that sink in.

Partly Personal

Only half-a-cup of Sunday Morning Coffee today. I've got to get on the road. I've been in Kansas City on an assignment for the past several days and need to get my butt back so I can see my Bride and the critters.  Especially little Yofi who sits by the backdoor waiting me me to get home. Georgie posted this last week after I left. Yikes!

Thanks for reading and have a wonderful Sunday...now...get to work!

 

 

  

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee - Independence Day 2021

I know, you're wondering what happened to the morning edition of Sunday Morning Coffee. Well, I decided to declarer my independence from an early morning rise and sit outside with a cup and read the paper. I know, how dare me!  Anyway, that's the story and let's get to it!

What No Paper Towels?

The tragic events of ten days ago at the Surfside Condo has riveted the nation. We now count 24 dead and still 121 people unaccounted for after the collapse of the building. Today efforts there paused so demolition could be planed for the rest of the building. Meanwhile, in stark contrast to what we have witnessed before, President Biden went to Florida and told the people there that he was there to make sure they received everything they need to get through this.  "Whatever you need. I think I have...no, I know I have the power to make it happen. Just tell me what you need."  Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL), fierce critic of the president, looked shaken as he sat next to Biden who then touched DeSantis' arm and said, "No, really, whatever you need."

Come on Mr. President...all they really needed was...paper towels. (Photo: CNN)

So refreshing to see empathy from our leadership.

COVID-19 Surge

It's happening and we were warned. A number of states are seeing increasing numbers of hospitalizations and deaths due to the more highly contagious Delta Variant that is sweeping through states with low vaccination numbers. And, where are they? In mostly GOP states that rushed to "normalize their economy" ahead of getting the majority of people vaccinated. And, here we are at the 4th of July which, mark my word, will become a national super-spreader event. Good luck.

Deaths in Windsor Heights

Yesterday was "Parade Day' in the communities of Waukee, West Des Moines, Windsor Heights and Urbandale. Back in 2019 I was involved in several of those events on behalf of my friend former congressman Joe Sestak (D-PA) who waged what was nearly a one-man attempt to win the democratic nomination. I came to admire him and his family. 

This year I drove a truck in the Windsor Heights Parade. Next to me was a friend who lives in a senior community here. She told me that a husband and wife who lived in her community and were both fully vaccinated in March had just been hospitalized with the Delta Variant. She died four days ago and he is on a ventilator.  I should have asked about pre-existing conditions but I didn't. The message here is that we're not done with this yet. Social distancing, masks indoors and getting a vaccination matter.

Partly Personal

OK...I'm tired. My bride recently got a new puppy and I took two days on the couch while "Camper" was dealing with separation anxiety. Another reason Sunday Morning Coffee is late.  She (Camper) is doing better and we may be able to retire to the bedroom this evening.  Stay tuned.

Finally a huge shout out to my friends who make up the Polk County Democrats. After being humiliated at several other parade events because of their low numbers the Polk County GOP decided they would encourage their followers to
"show up" at the parades and beat back the Democrats. Well, so much for that. Yesterday, for example, in Windsor Heights (Where just four years ago maybe five of us would show up marching with a banner.) we had dozens of Democrats show up including Congresswoman Cindy Axne and her family. We had a great time and it was wonderful to see such a turnout. There were more of us...just off to the right. We couldn't fit them all in.  Thank you Sean Bagniewski, Polk County Democratic Chair, for your help.  And to each of the candidates and their supporters. It was quite the site in our little community!

At the end of the parade, and after depositing several people back to their vehicles at the start of the event, I was left with two teenage girls to lift Daisy off of the float and get everything back in the storage garage we've got. Uhm...could we do it without another accident which, back in 2019, resulted in Daisy having a broken leg and missing an ear?  Success! Sabrina and Jovie were major helpers and...Daisy isn't light. So a really good day all around.

Then it was off to the 4th of July Event at Colby Park where The Faculty Lounge Band had folks dancing.  My Bride is the person who organizes the bands, food trucks, etc. and it all came off without a hitch.  Nice job Georgie!

That's a wrap...I know...short.  But it is Independence Day!  Thanks for reading!