SundayMorningCoffee

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 3 October 2021

Good Morning and welcome back to Sunday Morning Coffee. Here are some of the political news you've seen or, perhaps, missed all laced with my commentary. It's what I get to do early each Sunday.  Warning...just a half a cup today. Softball and my granddaughter starting at 8AM. Yikes!  And the rest of the day is a workday. 

Biden Poll Numbers

It's the big beltway news story. "President Biden's Poll Numbers Drop"  For months the obstructionist Republicans have been on every insurrectionist media outlet crowing about how bad things are. These are the same people who kept silent when "45" was destroying everything from our standing in the world to the COVID-19 pandemic. No, what is happening is people are worried. We didn't see the ending of the pandemic in June...like everybody thought. Why? Because there are some who have been told not to trust the vaccine, not to wear masks, not to keep a safe distance. Meanwhile the shortage of workers has crippled the supply chain and prices are rising.  I get it but none of that is the president. In fact...

Build Back Better

In fact the president is trying to help the American people through the massive infrastructure bill that is going nowhere because of the GOP, who loves tax cuts for the wealthy but stand in the way of tax increases for them, dawdles. And then there is Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV) and that goofy senator from Arizona Kyrsten Sinema a Democrat that had to fly home on Friday to get money from wealthy donors rather than talk about what she doesn't like in the bills the House has passed. Who the hell is going to primary that woman?  Weary...

The New Book

It's out on Tuesday and the reporting has been hot. Stephanie Grisham, onetime press secretary for President Donald Trump and chief of staff for the first lady telling of her time in the White House. Excerpts are predictably juicy, but one unifying theme seems to be the administration’s brazen embrace of dishonesty.  NBC News writes: "Grisham reports, for example, that at the 2019 G-20 Summit in Japan, right before the video cameras started rolling, she saw Trump lean toward Russian President Vladimir Putin and overheard him say: “I’m going to act a little tougher with you for a few minutes. But it’s for the cameras, and after they leave, we’ll talk.”

"Grisham is famously known as the press secretary who never held a press conference. Hence the tongue-in-cheek title of her book: “Now I Will Take Your Questions.” The salacious nature of her work of alleged nonfiction should in no way rehabilitate her professional legacy.   But boy — she does have the goods."

Of course the former president and first lady have both issued statements that none of what is in the book is true. Right....

We've Got So Much Money...

What happens when you make the decision to not spend money on things like education, health care, child care, rental assistance? You might want to ask Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) who, along with her minions in the Iowa House and Senate are taking great pride in the fact the state has in excess of a billion dollars in it's "rainy day fund".  It's raining cats and dogs and the safety net for thousands of Iowan's is out of reach. They have been running out to the media on a daily basis proud of the fact they have choked off kids, teachers, families from help just to amass a chest of gold. Meanwhile Iowan's are hoping for crumbs from the table of their master...it's sick.

Iowa U.S. Senate Race

I have it on a good authority that things in Iowa are about to heat up...big time. Sworn to not chat about it but...whoa!  Stay tuned. But it is interesting that in one poll Iowan's say Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA) should stand aside while another poll indicates people will continue to vote for him. We are a very confused state.

Early Voting in Iowa

The GOP effort to strangle to vote in Iowa will be in full view shortly. Right now you can request a ballot. Right now. I understand they will be mailed out on the 13th of October and then you've got just days to send it back in. It's all part of voter suppression. Meanwhile, Postmaster Louis DeJoy has announced first class mail will now be delivered much like it was in 1970 taking five days rather than three. Isn't that nice?  The only question is, "How in the hell is Louis DeJoy STILL the postmaster general?"  If you happen to live in POLK County and would like to help us track ballots get your early voting ballot from the Polk County Democrats here. 

Partly Personal

Told you this was just half a cup. I'm off to a softball game and then off for an interview with my friend Julie Gammick who led an amazing Iowa Writers Retreat a couple of weeks ago in Okoboji. She is going to share some reflections on her effort and announce the 2022 event. Be watching for it on Insight on Business the News Hour this week.

As you may know I'm running a write in campaign for the Windsor Heights City Council. My thanks to several of you for the help. My friend Dave Miglin is creating the website and we've had lots of folks ask for signs and postcards are coming out soon as well. If you live in, or know somebody in Windsor Heights all they have to do is write Michael Libbie or Mike Libbie on the ballot and boom.  We're golden. Thanks in advance and thanks for reading!  

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 19 September 2021

Politics, Opinion and a little Religion to spice things up.  Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee a regular feature done each Sunday for years. Advance Warning: This is going to be rather short today. Packing up to head to the Okoboji Writers Retreat later today. Lots of gear to pack up and then there is that drive. Yikes!  Let's go!

Money, Money, Money

This past week I was with my congregation for Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, and there is, in the liturgy, a host of readings from the Torah about turning to "false gods".  In 2021 we're not talking about idols carved out of wood or stone but those "false gods" that we bow down to...and there are many.  However, the most powerful god is...money. It trumps...everything.  Want proof?

Money, in this case, is much more important than say...democracy. This week in Russia there are federal elections. The leading opposition party to Valdimir Putin, which is all but banned and has had their leader Alexei Navalny imprisoned, joined with others and encouraged Russians to band together to vote Putin out of office.  They had a website (which was promptly shut down) and an app on Google and Apple where they could share information and encourage others to vote.

Well our buddy Tim Cook (Apple) and his counterpart over at Google Sundar Pichai looked this over and decided that money was worth much more than the right to vote in a "democratic" election. So they shut down the apps. It seems that taking care of your shareholders and a little pressure from Valdimir won the day.  How typical...

Nothing, Just Nothing

So, those of you who are Republicans I have a question: What policies are important to you? I can help you answer that. Obstruction is the official policy of the GOP and it has been since 2008. Now, you might think the party really does have some policy goals but when Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY) just comes out and says, "Hey, we're not going to support anything..." that pretty much sums it up.  So, the "Do Nothing Party" is once again lining up to deny Americans the right to vote (see Russia), a living wage, education, health care... Yeah...you get...nothing.  Nothing, just nothing.

But, It Works

Here in the (once) great state of Iowa pandering to the idea that nothing is a winning formula is working. Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) is, according to a recent poll, enjoying a 53% approval rating. So, the majority of Iowans really believe that doing nothing about COVID-19 is a solid win. The majority of Iowans believe that doing nothing to stop voter suppression is a positive. The majority of Iowans believe that doing nothing about the health care of thousands of people on Medicaid works. I could go on but you get the picture. Meanwhile Iowa Democrats are out there attempting to push legislation that will make a positive difference in the lives of working families but, of course, when you are in the minority...nothing...wins. (Image - Des Moines Register)

Great At Lies

There is one thing Iowa Republicans excel at...lying. The recent special election vote in Ankeny (House District 37) proved that once again. The "Reynolds Lap Dog" Mike Bousselot beat Andrea Phillips by 377 votes. Of course he lied his way to the victory claiming shady deals by Phillips and that she wanted to "defund" the police, threw in the word "China" and that she was tied to a "socialist agenda". All bullshit. The China charge is the most awesome of all lies because it was Bousselot who was Chief of Staff for former Gov. Terry Branstad (R-IA) who became the Ambassador to China.  And, of course we all know what a stellar job he did while cozying up to his best friend Xi.  Please....

Polk County

The first draft of the District Maps are out and I suspect they won't fly. Depending on who you talk to it's a boost for Democrats and Republicans. No, really. I've heard from both.  We'll see how that flies.

Meanwhile the great Polk County Steak Fry happened yesterday. It was a bit surreal as a small group of Democrats came together to eat steak, chicken and/or a veggie burger. My choice. Two years ago in the midst of the presidential primary fight thousands of people came out along with their preferred candidates and it was huge. Last year we stayed in our cars and watched a big screen. This year we sat in lawn chairs in the sun (and yes it was damn hot) to listen to one candidate or office holder after another decry the state of Iowa and the politics of the nation. Two of us, me and Nancy Bobo were sporting Mike Franken shirts.  Hey...there were TWO of us.

We had to show proof of vaccination and wear a mask when not eating. We were doing the "social distance" thingy and there were not a ton of hugs. Have to be careful you know. It was great to see so many friends again and to chat it up a bit about politics. The people cheered when we were reminded that Federal Judge Robert Pratt ordered the state of Iowa to immediately halt enforcement of a law that prevents school boards from ordering masks to be worn to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. But, perhaps not realizing that Iowa Attorney General Tom Miller (D-IA), who announced to the crowd that he was seeking another term as AG would defend Iowa and the Governor in court.  Ironic...no?

I couldn't stay for the entire event. Had a girls softball game to attend.  My granddaughter was playing.  Somethings are really important. But it was worth every effort...now the work begins...again. Daily but it is an uphill slog. 

Partly Personal

Are the unvaccinated guilty of...murder?  Stay with me on this. It's something that I brought up to my Mason City congregation on Yom
Kippur.  Let's say a person decides not to get the COVID-19 vaccine and they are asymptomatic. But they give the virus to another person be it a parent, child, friend, co-worker. And, let's say that that person gets very sick so sick they must be cared for in the Intensive Care Unit. Because there are so many COVID patients in the ICU that when a person has a heart attack, stroke or serious injury and there is no room to care for him or her...they die. They die because the unvaccinated person made a decision to not get the vaccine and that decision resulted in the death of another. Murder?

That's not too far from the issue of AIDS. If a person who has aids knowingly passes it on to another they are held criminality responsible. Sure the person who has COVID but is not showing signs may not know he/she has the virus. But...let us take this one step further. Let's say the unvaccinated person does become very sick and needs an ICU bed that same bed that could have been used by another person who has a medical emergency but...there is no room. Murder?

Chew on that....

I'm outta here. Headed to Arnold's Park on Lake Okoboji for the Okoboji Writers Retreat that was put together by Julie Gammack. I get to present and learn and it's "sort of" a vacation. I'll still be working but also taking in the wisdom of some wonderful writers. 

Have a great Sunday and thanks for reading!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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 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! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 20 June 2021

Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee! Some politics with a bit of religion sprinkled in, just for fun. In addition today is Father's Day an event that pales when it comes to Mother's Day but...hey, we'll take what we can get.  Right?  Grab a cup and let's go!  And, thanks for reading...

Juneteenth

Well, that was fast! Yesterday was Juneteenth, which is now a federal holiday. They say the wheels of congress turn slowly but not in this case. Businesses and states didn't have much time to alter their schedules following the quick vote and signing. But, we'll take it. Now the work really begins. We must use this opportunity to teach about the racial history of our nation. Otherwise it's just another day to have a mattress sale.

Liberal Baptists?

Last week, in a closely watched election for president of the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC), two prominent far-right candidates lost to a more mainstream conservative named Ed Litton, blunting the momentum of a Tea Party-style group aiming to lurch the SBC in an even more right-wing direction.

For years the SBC has been a reliable lap dog for rightwing politicians while having to grapple with sexual abuse in some churches. But to think this election is a signal that Southern Baptists have had a change of heart and now will move in a more moderate direction is, in my view, a mistake. This group is firmly opposed to any progressive agenda be it racial, ethnic, workers rights, abortion...the list gets long...and they have been at it for a very long time.

You Can Vote...If You Are White

I'm not sure why the Republicans just don't come out and say it, "We'll allow you to vote if you are a white person." There...done. But they know that's just a bridge too far so they cling to the insane notion that voter suppression is really something called "voter integrity". In every Red State those two words are shouted as a mantra to make it harder to vote especially if you are a person of color. It's quite shameful because nobody is free until we are all free to vote. Politicians should make it easier, not harder but...when you have not a hint of policy agenda (other than obstruction) the worst thing is having people vote. 

Now What Joe?

Last week Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV) laid out his objections to the voting rights bill passed by the House and offered some "amendments" that he said he could support. It didn't take a hour for Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY) to step to the microphone and proclaim that GOP senators would not support the Manchin Proposal (or really any voting rights bill). The United States goes to war in other countries so that people there can vote (Remember Iraq and blue fingers?) but here elected officials are dead set against voting. The world is watching and figuring out that we are not the nation we say we are.  Meanwhile in West (By Gosh) Virginia well over 60% of the people there support voting rights.  Now what Joe? (Image: Denver Post) 

The U.S. Threat Is Not China...But Us.

There is a great article out today by former Secretary Robert Reich that speaks to the real threat we face...and that threat is complacency. He writes that post WWII the U.S. was lulled into a false sense of security and superiority. After all we won a world war. But then came the launch of Sputnik in 1957 and the United States, fearing that the Soviets would dominate, set off a host congressional funding bills dealing with money for infrastructure, education, scientific research and development. 

Once again America led the world in those areas and then came Japan innovation in technology and vehicles. Many in the U.S. saw this as a threat to our national security as Japan rolled out electronics and cars Americans wanted and bought. Japan...a nation that was in ruins just 30 years earlier made the decision to plow government money into...you guessed it...education, infrastructure, research and development. 

Today we are there once again. As politicians rail against China folks on Wall Street line their pockets funding investment in China while decrying investments in the United States as government overreach and more importantly having to actually pay taxes to fund infrastructure, education, research and development. And, once again...we are faced with a major threat but it comes from...us.

Want to read the article in The Guardian?  Here you go.

We Love You Joni!

The Iowa Poll was released this morning and Iowans are in love with Sen. Joni Ernst (R-IA). Never mind that none of them can come up with any policy she has endorsed that would make their lives better.  The Iowa Poll says that "men and rural Iowan's" have boosted her standing since the last poll in March of this year. Isn't that nice?  Aw, shucks, us guys think you're cute and the rest of us..." This is what you get when you defund education me thinks.

Bye Chuck!

The same Iowa Poll tells us that only a third of Iowa voters would like to retain Sen. Charles Grassley (R-IA) the 87 year old senior senator from the Hawkeye State. Back in the day Chuck was sort of the GOP answer to President Harry Truman. A rural, no-nonsense politician that fought against waste and corruption while playing off his "Aw, shucks" persona. In recent years Senator Grassley has become a hanger-on when it comes to anything the former president says or does. But my guess isn't politics that is taking down the Grassley Appeal but more to do with ageism.  Just my guess.

Ras Smith

Last week Rep. Ras Smith (D-Waterloo) announced his candidacy for governor. The young representative has an uphill battle but he has struck an inclusive cord in his message by saying that he doesn't care what party you belong to but, "you deserve better" and that he will fight for everybody. But one thing is certain, Jeff Kaufmann is a jerk. Just hours after Smith announced the head of the Iowa GOP came out with a scathing condemnation about everything associated with Rep. Smith. You've got to hand it to them. Republicans are masters at saying tough, and false, things about their opponents while the Democrats always want to play nice.  We have a problem. (Image - KWWL)

Partly Personal

Last week I ventured out of my office and spoke at EntreFEST in Cedar Rapids. It was the first public outing since March of last year. As I got into the elevator to head to my room a woman entered...also without a mask. I said, "How are you doing?" She looked at me, smiled and said, "Isn't science wonderful?". I was with a friendly.  It was a good time and if you've never been and you are at all interested in the entrepreneur and startup community and economy make plans to go in 2022. There were, I am told, about 80 speakers at the event and several hundred attendees on-site and others online. I spoke about "Podcasting for Business" and had a great time.  Would do it again.

Ah, the rain! It's still raining here in Des Moines and we've needed this break. Right now I was to have been at a softball field watching our granddaughter in a 12-U championship game as well as "calling" the game on an app called Game Changer. We're not sure if the event will take place today or not but...the delay gave me the opportunity to write Sunday Morning Coffee so...all is good.  Just got word...tournament has been cancelled. Not the way we wanted to end the season. 

Thanks for reading...and Happy Father's Day!