SundayMorningCoffee

Sunday Morning Coffee 16 January 2022

Welcome to 2022...which seems a bunch like 2021 so far. It's Sunday Morning Coffee back in the saddle after a couple of weeks off. To tell the truth, the political news is so weird that I had to "duck and cover" for several Sundays. NOT that it's gotten any better...right. So, let's get into some opinion, politics and a dash of religion just to keep things interesting.

We're Defending What Exactly?

In December President Biden signed the $770 billion defense bill which was $20 billion more than the pentagon requested. It struck me that while we can't get our crap together to support a host of domestic issues say like...voting...what exactly are we defending? Without the right to vote and hold politicians accountable and move this nation to a "more perfect union" what the hell are we doing?  Nearly two dozen states have passed voter suppression legislation (I live in one) and people like Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Sen. Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ) have just said "No!" to carving out a filibuster change to get voting rights passed. So there is that...

Got It Yet?

If one didn't know better one would think that we're living in some crack-pot third world country when it comes to COVID-19. We live in a nation that has a patchwork health care system, that leaves the states to figure out what to do because we have failed to have a clear national response to this plague. To make matters worse it seems that the people in charge alter their recommendations on a regular basis. For example now the CDC says a cloth mask isn't enough and that people should wear a "surgical mask" and also a cloth mask over that.

Meanwhile one in five Americans have yet to get their first shot of a vaccine. All of this is tragic and it extends the life of this awful 21st Century Plague.

Empty Shelves

Last week I saw a political pundit post a photo of some empty grocery store shelves and take it with, #EmptyShelvesBiden. Weary. Want to know why some shelves are empty? Let's start with COVID-19 taking hundreds of thousands of "essential workers" out of the workforce. National economists say that although a precise count of the number of employees who are out sick or quarantining is hard to come by, about 5 million Americans could be isolating due to COVID-19.

Meanwhile we are more than 80,000 truck drivers short of full employment. That means only two of every sixteen loads are being claimed. And there is the Supreme Court decision that vaccine mandates  are not legal and that OSHA overstepped in that call to have employers of 100 people or more get their staff vaccinated. Then there is Matt Whitaker (who we in Iowa know only too well) the former Acting U.S. Attorney General and rabid supporter of "45", in a tweet, said the decision was a "big win for federalism". Oh...please. (Photo: CNN)

And you wanna know why I needed a couple of weeks off?

The Flat Tax

Well now Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) in yet another gift to the wealthy (who, by the way really make the rules) has just proposed a graduated Flat Tax System for this state. The proposal would get to a flat tax of 4% in several years. This has long been a goal of the rich and powerful as it would shift a larger tax burden to lower income individuals and Lord knows we don't need them to bog down progress.

In addition to gifting to the wealthy this would also, according to economists, lower state revenues which then allows the state to further restrict public education support. "Hey, look at our revenues. We can not continue to support public education in any meaningful way..." I can hear it now.

Work Force

And in another lofty proposal Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) has also called for reducing unemployment benefits to force people back to work. Like they are lazy folks sucking down bon-bons while watching day-time soap operas. I'm not sure where this woman dreams up this stuff. This sort of hard-hearted response to a plague is typical of her and her minions. It's just...awful.

But Wait, There's More

Meanwhile on the opening day of the Iowa Legislature the State Senate President Jake Chapman (R-Adel) used his time to call out teachers and journalists for having a "sinister agenda" that is threating the safety of children. You know, the kind of rhetoric that resulted in a guy shooting up a pizza joint because he was convinced there was "child trafficking" going on there.

Well, Jake, I got news. Enjoy the limelight because your time in the Iowa Legislature will soon be coming to an end.

Exhibit A: Here is a recent photo of legislators taken at a West Side Chamber of Commerce Legislative Breakfast this past week. It was not that long ago that every legislator representing the suburbs of Des Moines where Republicans. Voters have finally come to the conclusion that those representing them were doing a lousy job and kicked the GOP to the curb. Legislating from a point of fear only goes so long. There is not a boogie man behind every tree and bush. While that playbook has worked in the past...the rational is getting mighty thin.  So, Jake get ready for a more quiet retirement as Sen. Sarah Trone-Garriott takes you on in your home turf. Know that thousands of us are working to that goal.  In the photo: Sen. Claire Celsi (D-WDM),  Sen. Sarah Trone-Garriott (D-Windsor Heights), Sen. Jake Chapman (R-Adel), Rep. Kenan Judge (D-Waukee) and Rep. Jennifer Konfrst (D-Windsor Heights). (Photo - Windsor Heights Chamber) 

Israel

It was a reminder of what once was. This past week I attended a luncheon put on by Iowans Supporting Israel a true bipartisan organization that seeks to strengthen ties between the two entities. It was a bit surreal as I sat next to the chair of the Grassley reelection committee and Attorney General Tom Miller (D-IA) and a host of people from both sides of the aisle who hold drastically different political beliefs all coming together in support of the State of Israel. The topic was the BDS Movement which seeks to Boycott, Disinvest and Sanction Israel saying that the nation's treatment of the Arab population is akin to apartheid in South Africa. The speaker was Jacob Millner from the Minneapolis office of the American Jewish Committee who shared the reality of the situation in Israel vs. what life was like in South Africa and other places that oppress minorities.  Thirty-three states, and Iowa is one of them, have passed anti BDS legislation that restricts investment in companies that support BDS. If you really want the full story...feel free to make contact with me. 

Partly Personal

We had to cancel services at my congregation Adas Israel of Mason City. Snow. But, if you want a peek at what we talk about each week in our Torah Study you can visit our Adas Israel Blog Post which looks a bunch like this blog posts...for obvious reasons. Yes, each week I get to do that...too.

It's will be my first City Council Meeting as a councilor. The Windsor Heights City Council meets on the first and third Monday. However because of the New Year Holiday we did not meet on January 3rd and we'll not meet tomorrow the 17th because of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day. So...we're meeting on Tuesday. This morning I spent several hours going through the meeting packet...all 162 pages.

I'll be taking Insight on Business the News Hour on the road this week. Headed to Kansas City on business. Be looking for a long-form conversation over lunch with U.S. Senate Candidate Admiral Mike Franken. It was the return to my "Out to Lunch" segment that's been on hold during the pandemic. My thanks to managing partner Karl Wertzberger and his staff at Gilroy's Kitchen + Pub + Patio for hosting us.

Finally.....YES Mitch Henry I will be sending in my dues for the Iowa Unity Coalition...honest! 

Yikes this got long!  Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday...

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 6 September 2020

We should be getting ready for the Annual Labor Day Parade here in Des Moines, Iowa. But, like many things...well, you know. Welcome
 to Sunday Morning Coffee the stories you've seen, or perhaps missed, all laced with my commentary. It's what I get to do starting before the sun comes up.  Let's go:

The Atlantic

Just a couple of days after the shocking story about hateful comments by the president toward dead and wounded military personal and it's nearly disappeared from the news.  The scathing article penned by Jeffrey Goldberg, the managing editor of The Atlantic, would have been enough to take down any candidate for any office...except for "45". We are so accustomed to the lies and the outrage that it makes us numb. Maybe that's been the plan all along.

However, now, days later more and more people are coming forward saying what was written is true. Even Fox News reporter Jennifer Griffin who was attacked by "45" (who demanded that she be fired) has doubled down on her confirmation of the story saying on the air, “I can tell you that my sources are unimpeachable. I feel very confident with what we have reported at Fox."

So Did He Say Those Things

History would indicate he did.  Here is a clip from CNN anchor and military spouse Brianna Keilar:

I believe Goldberg.

The Biden Response

I watched a presser about this with Vice President Biden and the contrast was acute. He made mention that he was angry, "I'm the most angry now than at any point in any campaign...". And he ticked off several reasons as to why. When a reporter said his followers wanted him to show more anger and outrage and asked why Biden didn't show more anger the answer was this: "You must be, presidential. It's what America wants..."  Yep.

Yet Another Conspiracy Theory

And our own Sen. Joni Ernst (R-IA) is named in this report from The Hill: Top Republicans are seeking to downplay the heavy toll of the coronavirus, in part by pointing to a conspiracy theory that the number of deaths is much lower.

"...Sen. Joni Ernst (R-IA) and Rep. Roger Marshall (R-KS), who are both in competitive Senate races, have all pointed in recent days to the widely debunked theory that COVID-19 deaths in the United States total just 10,000 instead of the more than 180,000 recorded by health officials." You are reading that as a direct quote from the story.

Taking a page from the playbook of "45" the idea is just lie and folks will believe it. Here is a link to the story. 

Unfit

Look, I am an unabashed Democrat and I have lived through the administrations of both parties. While I have had many disagreements with policies of both parties I don't think I've ever been so dismayed by the actions of the President of the United States than I am today. This man has no honor, no decency, no compassion. He is a liar, a fraud and dangerous for our democracy. He is unfit and we've got 57 days before the election.  He must be defeated, overwhelmingly, at the polls on November 3rd. We must do this...

Trolls

When you're outspoken on issues that supporters of "45" or, really, any Republican, hold they get hot. The first thing they do is call folks names. While I delight in baiting them their lack of civility is...well factual. They adore a man who supports racist ideas, conspiracy theories, lies daily, grabs women by the pu**y and brags about it. The list is long and you all have seen it. Stunning That the governor of my state is in that camp says all you need to know.  That election comes in 2022.

Vote Polk 2020

I am holding in my hand a roadmap put out by the Polk County Democrats that aims to flip the Iowa House to the Democrats, get closer in the Iowa Senate, re-elect Rep. Cindy Axne (D-IA) and elect Theresa Greenfield to the U.S. Senate. Oh yeah...and send "45" the the dust-pan of history.  This ain't my first rodeo but it is the first time I've seen such a detailed plan that is not only working...but will work moving forward. Try this on: As of yesterday 40% of the Democrats in Polk County, Iowa have requested a mail in ballot. That is a huge number and I can tell you we're not done. Every day there are people out there calling friends and neighbors block by block. Setting up voter registration tables in parking lots and in driveways. Now, it's one thing to get folks to register and ask for a ballot but getting those in and counted comes next and YES, that too is in this plan. Bottom line...we will crush the GOP at least in this county. While none of this would be possible without the hundreds (yes, hundreds) of volunteers it takes leadership to move the ball and we've got that in spades!

Polk County Steak Fry Tickets

Get 'em while they are HOT! Even if you're not a resident of this county you can still join us in person or virtually. The work that has gone into this event has been amazing. People have devoted days, weeks and months to the planning. Come on, chip in 35 bucks and join us next weekend.  Here is a link to get your tickets.

The Cindy Axne Event

Hot on the heels of the Polk County Steak Fry is a special event for Rep. Cindy Axne (D-IA) that will feature former South Bend, Indiana mayor Pete Buttigieg on the 15th of September. Here is a link for you so you might join us! From the campaign: "Join Cindy Axne & Mayor Pete Buttigieg for a virtual rally kicking off 50 Days until Election Day! The most important election of our lifetime is fast approaching and it's going to take each and every one of us getting involved in these final days to bring Cindy across the finish line. We can't wait to see you all there!" 

You really should join us!  Here is a LINK to that EVENT! 

Betty Devine for Polk County Supervisor

Last week I sat down for a virtual interview with Betty Devine who is seeking to flip Polk County District One from red to BLUE.  Who is she, what she believes is important, her 40 years (yes...40!) working for Polk County.  If you've not yet met Betty and of know much about this race here is a LINK to that conversation. 

Partly Personal

I'll miss being in the Labor Day Parade. For years I've participated with my friends from the various unions. I remember, back in 2016, how many people were on the route with signs supporting The Donald. We didn't see that in 2017 or 2018 or 2019.  And, given the current state of the economy I would doubt we would have seen much of that this year. However, there is no parade because Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) has botched her handling of COVID19 in this state while she clings to the demented rational of the president. We'll remember governor.

Today I get to finish up my route getting Democrats to request a ballot. Many communities, including mine, are doing a massive Get Out The Vote effort in a neighbor to neighbor program that was launched by our friends in Urbandale. The goal is to connect with every Democrat who has not yet requested a ballot.  Leading this effort has been the workhorse, Allison Engle who has done a masterful job in recruiting people to do the work.  Thank you so much!!

And, it's been months since I've been able to hug my grandchildren.

Thanks for reading, have a wonderful Labor Day and remember to thank the Unions!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 7 July 2019

Trying to figure out what to blame this very late edition of Sunday Morning Coffee on...  I've got it.!  Independence Day! Yeah...a holiday in the middle of the week tossed up everything. Actually my Bride and I were up late enjoying a perfect Iowa night.  So gotta blame this on...the weather.  Not to worry, it can handle it!

The Military and "45"

So many things to say about the efforts by "45" to embrace the military on the 4th of July. But let's just leave it at this. There are two reasons why the president spent your tax dollars to do his Salute to America honoring the very military that he dodged out of because of "bone spurs". 1) His base LOVES the military and the might. Just like they love the concentration camps that now are in every state in the union. It's all about power and might makes right. That is not to say others do not appreciate how the military protects and defends but with "45'" there is a deep desire to bow to his base...besides who might take him on for this.  It was a win/win for him. 2) He controls the military. That is the bottom line about this president...he loves controlling others. Be it the military, people he sues, his business deals or people seeking asylum from the horrors of their own nation. Control kids...control.

Jews Arrested in Rhode Island

Last week while we, in Iowa, were watching or walking in parades hundreds of Jews descended on an immigrant concentration camp in Central Falls, Rhode Island and staged a peaceful protest. "Outside the Donald W. Wyatt detention center inmates can be heard from the street...banging on the windows and walls. The mass of people  protesting called out, 'We hear you!"

That was the scene as the Jewish group, Never Again is Now staged, along with others all over the country, peaceful protests against the abusive conditions for migrants and asylum seekers. Saying they could not stand by as the necessary ingredients for an American Holocaust emerge.

Liza Burkin a 30-year-old urban planner from Providence said, "I am Jewish, and I refuse to be a good German." She and 17 others were taken into police custody for refusing to move away from an entry zone for the detention center. As she was led away she said, "We are focused way too much on the end of the Holocaust and not as much on the beginning and this is directly comparable."

It has come to this...

The Marshall Plan

What we are doing with regard to migrants and asylum seekers is evil and it is costing the United States millions and millions of dollars. Much of that money going to private contractors who are in bed with "45" and his cronies. It is a scam of monumental proportions and we are fighting the wrong war. What this rich nation should be doing is invoking a Marshall Plan for Central America.

A little history: The Marshall Plan was an American initiative passed in 1948 to aid Western Europe in rebuilding their economies after World War II. The U.S. gave over $12 billion (roughly $100 billion in 2019 dollars) to help create the thriving economy that is now Europe.

Imagine, for a moment, if we took that road with Central America. If the United States really wants to shut down the flow of migrants and asylum seekers we need to look at the root cause for them coming here. It's economics kids. If only we had the guts to admit it.

Meet Andrea Love

Last week the West Des Moines Democrats held a massive picnic and fund-raiser. On hand were presidential candidates Sen. Kamala Harris (D-CA), Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and her husband John as well as former congressman and Navy Admiral Joe Sestak.  It was a big deal...as other candidates came to speak which included home-town Congresswoman Cindy Axne (D-IA) who is seeking re-election in Iowa's Third Congressional District. 

Months before the WDM Dems contracted with Hy-Vee, a chain of grocery stores based in West Des Moines, to handle the food. When it was exposed that Hy-Vee gave $25,000 to the Republican Party of Iowa Victor Dutchuk of the WDM Dems met with others and the decision was to move away from that agreement and find another source to handle the food prep and service. That is where Andrea Love and her business Dinner Delights came in. Spend just a minute with Andrea here: (Just click the audio link)

Andrea Love Dinner Delights July 2019

There are more than a couple of ways to resist and do good at the same time.

Partly Personal

It was a heck of a week. Along with the West Des Moines Democrats picnic I helped out a fellow Democrat get to meet other Democrats in Central Iowa. Former Navy Admiral and Pennsylvania congressman Joe Sestak announced his candidacy for president just two weeks ago after learning that his daughter had, once again, beaten brain cancer. With no staff, or much knowledge of Iowa, he dove in and asked if I'd offer some help.  So, and while I'm not working for Joe, I felt it was important for people to get to know him. So we did the WDM Picnic and then he went on to march in the parade there. On the 4th I walked with him in the, very long and HOT, Urbandale Parade and then peeled off to do Windsor Heights Parade on behalf of the Windsor Heights Democrats. Did I do one selfe of any of that?  Nope! Oh my! But do want to thank my friend Dylan Funk for taking loads of shots on Wednesday during the WDM event.  Thank you my friend.

Then it was on to a great evening of music by Abby Normal at Nights in the Heights.  Yep, slept very well on Thursday night.

I was honored to have been asked to sit for a photo with a candidate for the Urbandale City Council Larry McBurney. Things are changing in Urbandale as Democrats compete in partisan and non-partisan elections. For many, many years Urbandale was considered a safe haven for the GOP. Not any longer and the same is happening in other communities as neighborhood groups associated with the Polk County Democrats continue to grow and become major activists. It's always about organizing. If you need proof...be in Ankeny this coming weekend. 

Finally...it happened again. "Daisy" is a mascot of the Polk County Democrats and she has been making the rounds at various functions. My friend, Wendell Eck created a float for "Daisy" and she's been in several parades. A couple of weeks ago she fell from her perch and broke her leg. I picked her up the day before the Windsor Heights Parade...took her to the event. After the parade and on the way back to the staging area one of the straps that held her down came loose and...yes, "Daisy" fell once again.  So, it's back in the repair shop and finding a better way to anchor her.

And, yes, I feel lousy that it happened on my watch.

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday! 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee the Vacation Edition II 26 May 2019

Once again it is Sunday Morning Coffee the Vacation Edition. Just a couple of comments about the news stories you've seen.  I'll be back, G-d willing, next week with a bit longer diatribe. For now...let's get going there is a beach waiting.

The Weather Report

We're with friends on Anna Maria Island on the Gulf Coast of Florida but following the weather back in the Midwest and it has been shocking. At last count there has been 189 of them in the U.S. since the first of the month. The storms are aid to have caused ten deaths. It is all so very tragic.

Gub'ment Welfare

Last week "45" announced another round of $16 billion for farmers impacted by his trade war. That amount is on top of the $12 billion paid to agriculture back in October. You should know that, once again, Sen. Charles Grassley (R-IA) will apply for government assistance for the 750 acre farm he owns with his brother. But, here is the kick... Sen. Grassley supports the trade war imposed by the president. Guess when you can get paid for hurting consumers who the hell cares. 

Meanwhile we all know realize that the tariffs are being paid by us as an increased tax on the items you consume. Meanwhile the party that hates taxes are not saying a peep about this tax. But when you represent the wealthy who the hell cares.  Oh, wait...just said that. 

Partly Personal

I get it, a really meager cup of Sunday Morning and for that I apologize. With any luck we're back in full swing next week. Meanwhile enjoy your Memorial Day Weekend remembering why we celebrate this day. May we never forget...

Have a wonderful rest of the weekend. Thanks for reading!

  

Thankful for Politics & Religion? SMC 29 November 2015

Hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving, if you lived in the US...if not...well it's this "made-up" holiday that has it's roots in a fable but offers Americans the opportunity to eat several thousand more calories than necessary. It's one of many holidays that give rise to the fact that 66.3% of our population is obese or overweight. See what you can learn here? Grab a cup of Sunday Morning Coffee and enjoy more politics, religion, satire and gossip. And, nope...no sugar or creamer.  Take it...black. Makes the weekend so worth it!

One Thousand Twenty Nine

Three years ago in December a gunman walked into Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut and killed twenty children, six adults and himself. Remember that? Since that day there have been 1,029 mass shootings in the United States. The killers have done away with 1,300 lives and injured 3,699 more. But you really don't care because you would rather continue to believe that we are more safe and that your "pea-shooter" will somehow deter a government that you don't like and don't trust. Such cowards. There is no reasonable argument against complete background checks, closing gun-show loopholes, increasing mental health care and getting tougher on assault weapons. But, I know...you are scared.

Colorado Springs

One of those 1,029 mass shootings happened over the Thanksgiving Holiday as a murderer, who CNN now says, muttered "baby parts" and "anti-government" speech according to investigators close to the case. Nothing at all happens when the hate-mongers, dressed up as "Pro-Life Saints" in the Republican Party call for action against Planned Parenthood based on a doctored video.  What could go wrong other than, in this case, three people left home and never returned do to a...wait for it...mass shooting.

Maybe He Should Have Been Roughed Up

The republican candidate who will win Iowa, Donald Trump, last week said a protester who was punched and kicked at a Trump rally "should have been roughed up". Aren't you proud of your guy? Then, a couple of days later makes a mockery of a reporter who has a handicap. But you proud and noble Iowans will march to the caucus and there, in the dark of night, will, by secret ballot, give Mr. Trump a resounding victory.  

Nebraska is starting to look better each week.  At least there they don't have a scholastic test named after them...they know better.

What's really funny is the GOP Establishment is in a panic that this guy is going to win in Iowa. Then what do you do?  Brokered convention?

You're Not Really Free

“People are not truly free when they are unable to feed their family. People are not truly free when they are unable to retire with dignity. People are not truly free when they are unemployed or underpaid or when they are exhausted by working long hours. People are not truly free when they have no health care.” - Bernie Sanders

Know where he gets that "crazy talk"?  How about the State of the Union message by President Roosevelt way back in 1944: “We have come to a clear realization of the fact that true individual freedom cannot exist without economic security and independence. Necessitous men are not free men.”  You know, that president who brought us a whole slew of "socialist programs" that have become the fabric of our nation. 

According to the 2014 Census, 47 million Americans live in poverty today, including 20% of American children and 36% of black children. But, hell, if you ain't one of those "statistics" screw off.  We don't care! "Go get a third job that pays $725 an hour maybe you'll be able to get you a turkey for Christmas."  Such "family values"...weary.

Statewide Day of Mourning

Want to join me for a "Day of Mourning"? It happens on 14 December as Gov. Terry Branstad (R-IA) becomes the longest serving Governor in the history of the United States. Nice work Iowa (see above). If you want, you can protest during the big party being planned for Gov. Branstad on Sunday the 13th of December. The Branstad/Corning/Reynolds Reunion Committee will be honoring him at the State Historical Society starting at 4PM. They will gather together and share "The Branstad Story". How nice of them to highlight the failure and his over-reach of power.  Oh, it's a cash bar.

The Democrats Will Lose...Again.

I'm not going to make any friends here but allow me to share with you why the Democrats will, once again, lose the Third District Congressional Seat currently occupied by Rep. David Young (R-IA). Ready?  Democrats will stay home...at least the Democrats who are young and of color. Home they will stay. Why? Have you seen the current crop of candidates?  My friend Jim Mowrer is a nice guy who raised millions and lost big to Rep. Steve King (R-IA) but he does not have the passion nor will he energize the youth vote or the black and brown voters. Ain't gonna happen. Former Gov. Chet Culver...really? And there is another guy, Michael Sherzan, who has money but also will not energize the votes needed in Polk and Pottawatomie County. No way.  That leaves 41 year old Desmund Adams. Black, young, powerful speaker, great family, connects with the youth and has a great personal success story. The problem: The "establishment" is scared of Adams.  Click the image below as Desmund lays out the issue at a recent media interview:Rather than stand up and recognize the vote numbers and who can best take it to Rep. Young they will stay home and the Iowa Democratic Party will come to regret it in 2016. Write it down someplace... Yes, I'll stay on that because you know it's right. 

Partly Personal

It's been a good week. Time off from the broadcast for a few days to connect with family. This weekend we traveled to our oldest daughter's home for a Thanksgiving Meal. Her husband, an Air Force Major, just got back from seven months in Afghanistan where he was teaching folks how to fly, take orders and understand systems.  There to help but all the time he was on the Afghan base he was fully armed with 300 rounds, body armor and automatic weapons. Along with a "security detail" that was also fully armed. And...he was supposed to be with "the good guys".

It was a good Thanksgiving.

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Politics, Religion and Fear 22 November 2015

Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee and my thoughts about politics, religion and the the sad state of affairs in our nation...from a LIBERAL point of view. My name is Michael Libbie and yep...I'm a progressive which means I'm in favor of moving our country forward not back to 1954. If you are easily offended (and isn't everybody about everything) you have been warned that the Coffee is HOT!

The Politics of Fear

It would seem, by all the posturing, that the United States is a nation of cowards. Over half of the governors in this once great nation have turned their backs of people fleeing oppression. Even the sole Democratic Congressman from Iowa, Dave Loebsack, joined arm and arm with Rep. Steve King to oppose bringing Syrian Refugees...who are already vetted and it takes 18 months to get her...voted last week to slow the process even more. I have truly refrained from "name calling" because that is wrong. However the cowardly acts of our elected officials is deeply troubling and it has roots in bigotry. In 1938 American's were asked by Gallup if the United States should increase the number of Austrian, German and Eastern Europe Jews allowed to come to our shore. Two out of three said..."No!".  And history tells us what happened to them and so many more. Shame on you...shame.

If you want some context to that story take a moment and read about the St. Louis...a tragic piece of reality about this nation. (Cartoon: Tim Lloyd)

 

The Jewish Governor

I've written before how, if Governor Terry Branstad (R-IA) were living in Nazi Germany he would, no doubt, have found himself at the gates of Auschwitz.  No matter how desperate he would have denied being Jewish now a pious Catholic or Lutheran he would have been targeted because of his Jewish relatives. Pretty simple. I had always thought there was hope for Gov. Branstad and that he would turn away from his hateful ways (education, the poor, refugees, organized labor) but he digs himself deeper. He has made it clear that the words in the Torah are not his words and this week by slamming the door on Syrian Refugees he has shown his true colors. Goodbye Governor, or as they say, "you are dead to me". I would not walk across the room to say hello....but I will pray for your neshama.

Flavor of the Month

Prayers and Hate were on display in Sioux City this past Friday as Bob Vander Plaats convened the Family Leader Forum and the reports coming out of that event suggest that Dr. Ben Carson is done and Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) is the new "flavor of the month".  Why?  Well it seems that Christians are seeking a "Christian Warrior" to do battle against ISIS, LGBT folks, voting, taxes and they have found it in Sen. Cruz.  It seems that, following the attack in Paris Dr. Carson, to them, is a bit too much like Jesus (kind/meek/thoughtful) and not enough like Pope Urban II (look it up).  This should play well. Next...

ID Badges/Cards for Muslims

This sounds familiar. Where have I heard of a nation requiring people of a minority, that also happens to be brutalized, be required to carry/wear identification?  Now, will the United States join that crowd. It seems that is the suggestion by Donald Trump. Mr. Trump was taken to task last week about the ID card controversy by former Marine Sargent Tayyab Rashid who tweeted, "Hey @realDonaldTrump, I'm an American Muslim and I already carry a special ID badge. Where's yours? #SemperFi #USMC." Mr. Trump never served in the military and did everything he could to avoid service now says he never said such a thing...trouble is he...did. Meanwhile, in an interview Sgt. Rashid said, "It doesn't matter who you are, Christian, Muslim, Jew, Sikh...we are all working together to carry this nation forward. We are all an important fabric of this nation."  Sounds good to me.

Thinking of going to get a badge made that says "Islam" and start wearing it...just to see. But it would have to be in Arabic. 

Governor Chet Culver

Speaking of Jesus there is talk of a resurrection in Polk County. People close to former Gov. Chet Culver say he is getting closer to announcing his candidacy for congress. It would seem logical. The current "establishment" candidate Jim Mowrer, best known for raising millions and getting trounced by Congressman Steve King and then moving to Des Moines to run for congress is...in a word...weak. If nominated by the party, no matter who is at the top of the ticket, will lose. He's not much different than Congressman David Young...bland.  Desmund Adams, who was first to announce, has had difficulty raising money but is a favorite on the stump and would be a sharp contrast to Young...if he can get there. Yet to announce Mike Sherzan has got money but not much else that I know of. So that leaves us Chet Culver. Hmmmm...it would seem logical and I sense Democratic voters in the district are still looking.

Relax, We Could Be Alabama

Things are bad in Iowa but...it could be worse because if the Iowa GOP were to get their way we could become...gulp...Alabama!  Last week a woman in the "enlightened State of Alabama" took her fight to see her children to the United States Supreme Court. The woman, who had with her same-sex partner, three children through a sperm donor which she was allowed by Georgia to legally adopt ain't a good mix in Alabama. You see in Alabama they don't "cotton" to them gay people so their high court struck down the woman's visitation rights and ruled the adoption invalid, saying the Georgia court was wrong under that state's adoption laws to grant it. The Alabama justices said "Georgia law makes no provision for a non-spouse to adopt a child without first terminating the parental rights of the current parents."  Weary....and why in the hell would anybody actually MOVE to Alabama in the first place?

Windsor Heights & Aldi

Last week the Windsor Heights Board of Adjustment made good on the suggestion that Windsor Heights in the "Snobbiest City in Iowa" by saying no to an Aldi Grocery Store to be built on land owned by Colby Interests. The Board was presented a petition with 90 signatures asking that the Board deny the effort.  I found this interesting and troubling. I had been told that, "An Aldi Store would bring a class of people we may not want in Windsor Heights." and I did push back on that. So the conversation came back to "We don't need another grocery store."  Call it what it is and perhaps another grocery store isn't a good idea but...when I suggested that that grocery store be a Trader Joe's the people who were against Aldi suddenly thought that was a good idea. Yes, troubling.

Partly Personal

I was doing some cleaning last week and came across something my Mother z"l had kept since my Father z"l died in 1987...his wallet. I think, more than anything, a wallet, with all it's places to keep things of great importance, is a direct reflection of some of the values that person holds dear. Inside I found family photos, his drivers license, his VFW card, Social Security Card...the sort of stuff a person thinks is important.  

There was also an interesting connection to his career and a sense of belonging. Tucked toward the back of the wallet was this Employee Recognition Card from The Ford Motor Company. It was issued in 1957...thirty years before my Father's death. He was recognized by his employer for contributing "an idea"...something of value to his company. Something, long ago lost to my memory, of a contribution and then a "thank you".  He kept it for decades.  I'm not sure why but like many of us who go to work each day we just hope that what we do is somehow appreciated. That says...volumes.  

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Politics, Religion, Gossip - 8 November 2015

Just about the time when you think it can't get any crazier along come my friends in the GOP and prove me wrong. Welcome to my regular exercise in mental health.  Not yours, by mine. I write Sunday Morning Coffee so that, at some time in the future, folks won't say, "What you saw this stuff going on and didn't say anything." Well, that sounds noble anyway.  Grab a cup!

Anybody Got a Lie Detector?

Sometimes one can start to believe their own story. That's what is happening to poor Dr. Ben Carson as he took the wheel of the Republican Clown Car. Now it seems that folks, tracked down by the media in Detroit who knew Ben as a child, don't have any memory of a "troubled youth" who was "out of control".  Maybe Ben just "thought" he was...or it makes for a good story. Then there is that West Point piece. Ben says he was offered a full ride scholarship to West Point but... Hey, it made for a good story. That Ben said he didn't have involvement with a shady nutritional company, when the video is there to prove it, is a bit more troubling but... Then there is the whole pyramid story.In a 1998 commencement address he floated his own personal theory that the pyramids in Egypt were built by Joseph -- the biblical patriarch known for his coat of many colors -- to store grain.  In the scheme of things, considering how the GOP contenders love fiction (Fact check the CNBC debate.) all of this amounts to nothing and we're simply piling on. Besides Ben has Jesus so it's OK.

We Want To Debate...(sort of)

In yet another example of entertainment from our friends in the GOP...last week a "show of unity" collapsed when the contenders could not, would not, agree to how to better "debate". Following the CNBC debate where they just "made s*it up" there was a unity call to have the campaigns decide the who, what and where of the debate.  After all, they were able to bamboozle (I'll use that word later too!) the media and the public with "made up s*it" why not go all the way and create rules where...there are no rules?  It was brilliant but, in the end, abandoned. But, don't give up the public is eager to see what ideas you can foster next. (Cartoon - Tim Lloyd)

 

Damn Muslims!

You might have missed the big event in Boise, Idaho last week when several dozen folks dressed up in flack-jackets, waving American flags and spewing fear took to the steps of the Capital and warned that the Syrian refugees who were being resettled there were actually "sleeper terrorists who pray to Allah and demand Sharia law".  So, who are these people?  The III% movement was co-founded by pro-gun, anti-government activist Mike Vanderboegh, who promotes the idea that the Second Amendment allows unsatisfactory election results to be overturned by armed revolt.  Yeah.. But, hey...it's free speech.

So, what happens if you love America but hate Muslims and there isn't some wacky group to belong to? Maybe your out for dinner with your friends/family at say Applebees in Coon Rapids, Minnesota and damn if some Muslim doesn't sit down behind you. Worse yet that Muslim is a Negro who is dressed funny and not speaking English. What to do...what to do?  Well, you could do what Jodie Marie Burchard-Risch is accused of doing. You could stand up, call out the woman speaking Swahli and then when she ignores you...smash her face with a beer mug. I wonder who Jodie likes in the GOP field... 

Asma Mohammed Jama also known as Mishy Ojama who is originally from Somalia but spent most of her time in Kenya before immigrating to the US. Family and friends are raising money for Asma's medical expenses. If you want to help here is the link to Go Fund Me.

 

Rat Bastard!

I have a friend who is running against Iowa House Member Peter Cownie (R-West Des Moines) who is not afraid.  A couple of months ago when Governor Terry Branstad (R-IA) vetoed over $50 million for school funding, that had been passed with bi-partisan support, Claire Celsi called the governor a "Rat Bastard" in a Facebook Post. She was right...but more than that Cownie has no idea what is coming. You see, Claire ain't afraid to "mix it up".  Pete, who is not well known for being involved with his constituents, has no idea what is coming. Hang on WDM...this will be fun!

Trouble in River City

Iowa tax-payers have, once again, been bamboozled by Gov. Branstand and his buddy Debbie Durham and her money tossing friends at the Iowa Economic Development Authority. The Kraft Heinz Company, formed in July by a merger of the two companies, had announced they were going to start some cost-cutting operations (that means firing workers) so they might post better profits for their shareholders. (Hang with me on this economic stuff..K?) The company announced they would close seven plants in the US and Canada as they shed 2,600 workers. (Gotta take care of the investors ya know) Last quarter earnings at Kraft Heinz were just $1.5 billion. So, you can understand why they came "hat in hand" begging Iowa and the City of Davenport for money.  So, the company that is closing the Davenport plant and cutting their workers from 1,400 to 470 came to the State of Iowa and the City of Davenport pleading for cash...your cash. And, in a hasty meeting on Thursday the Iowa Economic Development Authority gave them $5.1 million and called it a victory for Iowa.  But, that's not all...the City of Davenport is going to give Heinz Kraft another $10 million in another economic development package.

Now you understand that "economic development" is something that is reserved for only the already successful, rich, wealthy corporations.  And that "economic development" is really just a "tax shift" which shifts the burden of running government back to YOU and away from corporations.

"Let them eat...cake."  Ya know maybe that Mike Vanderboegh fella is on to something.

Veterans Day

Coming up on Wednesday is another bank holiday...also known as Veterans Day. (There will be sales!) The day, time now for your history lesson, was placed on the calendar by President Wilson in 1919 as a day to remember the "11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month" as
the nation celebrated the end of the "war to end all wars"...the First World War. For a while it was called "Armistice Day" but not many folks could spell Armistice (just kidding) so in 1938 the name was changed to "Veterans Day". In 1954 President Eisenhower (one of few Republican presidents I actually liked) issued the first Veterans Day Proclamation.  

All good and all honor to those men and women who have served in the armed forces of these United States of America against threats "foreign and domestic".  In fact, this week we welcomed home our son-in-law, a pilot and Major, who has been in Afghanistan for an extended deployment training those folks how to...fly.

One sobering reality, as you take the day off from banking and go to the mattress sale, the United State of America has not won a war since the end of hostilities in 1945.  Seventy years ago.  That's not to say we haven't been in plenty...we've simply not...won...one.  Just thinking out-loud.

Partly Personal

I get to live in Windsor Heights (let the "Speed Trap" jokes begin) and love it here. It's small, if you want to go to the City Council Meeting you sit among friends. I can call the police chief on the phone, the fire department is tops in response times.  I really do care about the direction of my little community and I want to see it become more progressive rather than caught up in the issues of the past. For that reason I've supported Zac Bales-Henry for the City Council and in the election on the 8th of December. We're holding a little gathering at our home next Sunday as a meet and greet. Hey, it's another opportunity for...wine.

Have a great Sunday and thanks for Reading! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Politics, Religion, Gossip, SMC 12/15/13

My name is Michael Libbie I write Sunday Morning Coffee...myself. Politics, religion and gossip. If you have a comment feel free to share it here.  Or connect on Twitter @MichaelLibbie and, should you wish, here is my personal Facebook Page. I'm NOT in a good mood this morning...so there. Merry Christmas.

War on Christmas

As you may know former Gov. Sarah Palin is making a boat-load of money by channeling into the fear of like minded individuals with her new book, "Good Tidings and Great Joy: Protecting the Heart of Christmas".  I admire her.  Really.  She has found a way to make more money than she ever thought possible and be fawned over by thousands.  Well done!  And, about the "War on Christmas"...it looks to me like Christmas is winning.  The National Retail Federation says sales have been strong and may climb above their growth estimate of 3.9%. See... (Actually, there would be no "War on Christmas" if we didn't have to endure 90 days of it along with the same 34 songs played over, and over and over....) Merry Christmas.

Cowards Among Us

Right now they actually might be in your town.  Those spineless weasels whom we have elected to Congress who can not find the courage to stand against the gun lobby and do what 90% of Americans find reasonable. For the record since the horrific school murders at Sandy Hook there have been 24 additional school shootings (the most recent last week).  In total those 25 school shootings have led to at least 25 injuries and 18 deaths.  And your congress does...nothing.  Shameful. Oh, and Merry Christmas.

Your Tax Dollars at Work

Some of you may know that I do a daily business radio broadcast.  I started this adventure sixteen weeks ago because nobody seems interested in lifting up the positive business news for small and mid-size companies.  Nobody.  I am a Democrat that is pro-economic development.  However, I am also shocked at the amount of tax dollars and tax incentives states continue to hand out to bribe already successful companies to their borders.  Meanwhile, those same states cut services to the people who depend on the various social safety nets.  This Thursday we're going to dig a little deeper into this issue and have a conversation about government gifts to business and the number of jobs actually created.  Our guest will be author Steven Rosenfeld who recently raised the issue regarding the current "bidding war" (See, there is a real war!) regarding Boeing.  We hope a representative from the Iowa Economic Development Authority will also join us.  We want to be fair.  Merry Christmas.

Sexual Assault & The Military

I did not serve in the military.  I am grateful for those of you who have.  Last week I took my friends advice.  Bob Krause suggested I should do an interview with Miyoko Hikiji the author of "All I Could Be: My Story as a Woman Warrior in Iraq".  I was stunned by her tale of sexual assault among the men and women who serve.  By her accounts there are 26,000 incidents each year and many are simply swept away.  Look, I don't do politics on The News Hour...I save that for here.  But this is well worth a listen if you have the time.  I've pulled that section of the broadcast out for you.  Here you go it runs about 15 minutes. Oh, Merry Christmas.

Person of the Year

And the award goes to...Pope Frances?  Huh?  When Time made available to the media the possible choices and Pope Frances was included I honestly doubted he would make it.  After all he speaks and hangs out with lazy ass poor people, champions social safety nets, calls for an end of "trickle down" economics and asks people and business and government to be more generous in giving to those who have little.  "No way", I thought, "Especially after Rush called him a Marxist."  Well, lah-de-dah...  Hope my friends are paying attention.  Merry Christmas.

Partly Personal

Last week I took Mom to the grocery store.  She has not been since May.  He has been in and out of hospitals, nursing facilities, urgent care clinics, doctors offices...  So we spent two hours at the Urbandale HyVee where she reconnected with folk who had not seen her for six months.  One thing was a bit different.  Rather than let her drive the cart...I had my hand on the throttle.  Didn't want her running over some four-year old.  She had a nice time!

Thanks for reading and have a superior Sunday...Merry Christmas.  

Politics, Religion & Gossip - SMC 06/18/13

Sunday Morning Coffee is my personal rant about things that have to do with politics and religion.  I throw in a little gossip to really spice things up.  If you want to leave a comment here, feel free. (Due to spam I've got to approve...sorry.) And/Or if you want to connect on my personal Twitter Stream @MichaelLibbie or my personal Facebook Page...let's do it.  Enough of the commercial...here's the good stuff:

Hello, Mr. President...

I often start out my cell phone calls with that greeting.  And, in light of what we now "think" we know I always give a shout out on Twitter to the NSA.  Some of you are "shocked" and "outraged" that you are being spied on.  Really?  It's been going on for a very long time however now it's being done on President Obama's watch and those of us who believed and voted for transparency and accountability are disappointed.  Last week Sen. Tom Harkin (D-IA) called on the president to, "Get a handle on these issues and speak directly to the people."  Somebody in the White House needs to move before we get closer to 2014 or...they are going to hand the GOP a big, wet, juicy...kiss.

Speaking of Kissing

Some of the "A List" of Iowa Republicians are kicking themselves in the behind for kissing off the US Senate seat being vacated by Sen. Tom Harkin (D-IA).  Now, given the falling popularity of the president, they are sensing that the US Senate seat might be in play? Will President Obama drag down the chances of Rep. Bruce Braley (D-IA)?  That's the talk right now. The GOP heavy-weights that took a pass (King, Schultz, Reynolds) might have said "Nyet!" too soon. Now it's up to the "B Team" to work the talk show circut of right wing bat-crap crazies and energize their base.

It's Called Chutzpah

Gov. Terry Branstad (R-IA) last week was crowing about Rep. Bruce Braley being out of touch with Iowans because he's been in Congress for a couple of terms.  Mr. Branstad, the career polititian, knows the meaning of 'chutzpah' because of his Jewish roots and sir it is a bit of the pot calling the kettle black.  Please go sign a bill that makes you...the "Decider in Chief".

Oh...He Already Did

One word...Stunning.  The Democrats in the Iowa Legislature were so busy trying to get the hell out of town that they lined up and passed a flawed "compromise" health care bill which (hold on because this is too good) allows Gov. Terry Branstad to decide who gets an abortion and who does not.  Seriously.  Tucked inside the Department of Human Services Funding Bill is a provision that says if a woman is on Medicaid and desires an abortion...for any reason...the governor of the State of Iowa (through the DHS) must grant that request.  Not the woman, not the doctor, not the hospital...but one of the biggest foes of reproductive rights...Gov. Terry Branstad and "His" Department of Human Services.  I am not sure how I missed this but Sen. Jack Hatch (D-Des Moines) and Sen. Mike Gronstal (D-Council Bluffs) what the hell were you people thinking? 

Sex And the Uniform

In another mind-numbing issue it seems the US Senate would rather have the "chain of command" decide how to handle rape and other sexual misconduct rather than the law.  After all, it's worked so well.  A recent Pentagon study finds that 26,000 troops were assaulted...last year and 50% of them said nothing happened following a report of the incident.  What is amazing about this turn of events is the cadre of male senators who back the military brass.  Guys like Sen. Carl Levin (D-MI) who worries about "preserving military discipline" vs. female Senators such as Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) who said to the all male generals who showed up for a hearing, "You have lost the trust of the men and women who rely on you."  Bam!  Here's the story from the New York Daily News.

Meanwhile in Australia

Meet Lt. General David Morrison the Chief of Army in Australia. 

 

I would not want to screw with this guy.  Well done sir!  Any chance you could come over here and teach our generals? 

Dying to Come to Iowa?

According to a recent story in the Des Moines Register dying in Iowa is pretty cheap and Dubuque is the cheapest city in the state to...pass on.  I'll bet my friends at the Dubuque Convention and Visitors Bureau are crowing about this new piece of news.  No? (BTW, nice video about Dubuque on their site.)

He's Baaaack!

Last week, at a special session, Iowa Democrats selected Scott Brennan an attorney and partner with the Davis Brown Law Firm as the Interm Chair of the Iowa Democratic Party.  Mr. Brennan has served in this capacity before having been elected back in 2006 and serving for two years.  The 50 year old lawyer lives in West Des Moines (Shocking...that they allow Democrats to live there!) knows the ropes and fund raising, I suspect, will be a major goal.  The Democrats have another meeting scheduled in August.  Brennen takes over from Rep. Tyler Olson (D-Cedar Rapids) who is expected to run for Governor.  We'll see...

Facebook Update

So, just how many requests for information from Facebook has the federal government along with state, county and city police departments made during the final six months of 2012?  The answer, according to Facebook in this CBS News story is...wait for it...10,000.  Ten thousand requests in six months from a universe of 1.1 billion monthly users.  Dang, I was hoping they were following me.  I would follow back.  Turns out we have better odds winning the Iowa Lottery Power Ball than showing up in a government Facebook search.

A Great Business Model

Recently a police department here in Iowa made the news when purchasing eight bomb suits at a cost of $25,000 each.  It's not that they didn't already have bomb suits however the bomb suits they had were out of warranty.  The police chief told the media, "I just could not justify putting an officer into a bomb suit that is out of warranty."  Think about it for a minute.  Manufacture a piece of equipment, put a safety warranty on it and wait for the orders to roll in every five years.  Brilliant!  (Both my son and I saw the story but I can not find it anywhere for a link.  Anybody know?)

Save The Garlic!

My friend Larry Cleverley has been all over the news.  Recently Larry became aware of a plan to "improve" a highway intersection which would destroy two or three of the family homes and take the vast majority of his 200 acre farm along with Cleverley Farms, his organic vegetable plot, which serves many of the Des Moines area restaurants and customers at the Downtown Farmers Market.  I wrote about the issue here and when I contacted Larry about the story he said, "The DOT is only telling part of the story.  Since the 2011 improvements the intersection has become much more safe."  I have asked DOT District Engineer Tony Gustafson for a comment.  He wrote me back and said, "I will have that information for you early next week."   Don't worry, I'll share.

Those Loving Christians...

Seems that Gov. Chris Christie (R-NJ) is in hot water and about to be burned at the stake by our friends in the bat-crap-crazy world of Christian Conservatives. They are mad as heck that Gov. Christie didn't stop into their "anti-everybody-but-folks-just-like-us" conference also known by it's inclusive title the, "Faith and Freedom Coalition".  Christie did appear  at the Clinton Global Initiative America's meeting this past Friday and everybody knows THAT group is convened by "The Spawn of Satan", former president Bill Clinton.  Mr. Christie also angered "The Loving Christians" because he appeared on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon this past Wednesday.

Meanwhile in Texas

If you think for one minute that Iowa is wacky...head south to Texas where last week Gov. Rick Perry (R-TX) signed into law a bill that made it legal to say..."Merry Christmas".  Yes, the state that refuses to expand Medicaid to provide health care coverage to hundreds of thousands of poor folks took the time to provide respite to...Christmas.  Glory, Hallelujah!

Partly Personal

Today is Father's Day...  Not as big a deal as Mother's Day but...I'll take it.  My Father, Damon Libbie z"l, died in 1987 and a day does not go by that I don't think about him.  I have a photo of him taken when he was in his late 20's that is just outside of my office.  The photo here was taken in the 1960's in his office at the Lincoln/Thunderbird Assembly plant near Detroit.  Bow tie and all...  On the day he died we had three telephone conversations about "guy stuff".  I needed some instructions about a sump-pump that had been working overtime due to the heavy rains that day.  The next time I saw him I was delivering mouth-to-mouth and chest compressions in his bedroom.  Mom and I talk about him from time to time and it is hard to believe it has been that many years since I told him I loved him.

Happy Father's Day!  Have a blessed Sunday and never miss an opportunity to express your love. - Michael

Politics, Religion, Gossip - Sunday Morning Coffee - 05/26/13

Sunday Morning Coffee is religion, politics and gossip all shaded with my personal opinion.  My name is Michael P. Libbie and I believe, contrary to what your parents said, we should talk about religion and politics...because those two items are what really matter.  Feel free to leave a comment here or we can connect on my personal Twitter Stream @MichaelLibbie and/or my personal Facebook Page is right here.  Lot's going on...let's go!

President Obama & The Left

One of my friends from the Republican Party asked me the other day, "Michael, if your president is such a great guy how come the Left is beating him up over all these scandals?" The simple answer is, "We, unlike your friends at Fox, tend to castigate our own because we expect, always, to move forward and to seek justice and transparency."  When you seek the truth it's harder to manufacture crazy.  Yes, some on the Left are disappointed and many of those same people are ideologues who, just like the Right believe everything should be run "their way".  I'm still convinced that, at the end of the day, President Obama (love putting those two words together) will more than weather this storm and will continue to provide solid leadership for the nation.  I know...that is upsetting to many of you on the Far Left...and anybody who is a member of the GOP.

Memorial Day Weekend Sales Events

Weary.  That's what I am when I see and hear about these "Fantastic Memorial Day Sales".  Call me a purist but I think Memorial Day is one of those holidays that shouldn't be turned into an excuse to hold a slimy retail "event"..  Do that on goofy holidays like President's Day or Halloween but let's leave Memorial Day to something...special.  As for me...I ain't buyin'.

My Friend The Sceptic

I had coffee with a friend of mine who was beating the "doom and gloom" drum regarding President Obama. "The economy is bad." "Not enough people are working." The IRS scandal is going to tank him." "I fear the press will turn on him with a vengeance."  He even used words like "Watergate" and "President Nixon". He also shared something interesting, "I didn't vote for him.  Something about him just does not feel right."  Maybe he is looking for a real reason?  I dunno...

The Strange State of Virginia 

Not sure if you saw this.  Last week the Virginia Republician Party put forward their slate of candidates for various offices and (cue the Tin Foil Hat Parade) it could not have been more...wacky.  The Tea Party won the day largely because there was no primary but a nominating convention where fringe groups rule.  Some of the results:

• Ken Cuccinelli for Governor -The Virginia Attorney General instructed the state’s public colleges to end policies that banned discrimination against homosexuals is an ardent fan of the NRA and is a follower of the "Birther Movement";
• E.W Jackson for Lt. Governor - Mr. Jackson has compaired Planned Parenthood to the KKK, called out Africian-Americans for their "slavish devotion" to the Democratic Party and says he is motivated by his deep Christian faith to speak the truth about "perverted" and "very sick people" who are LGBT.

And you thought there was no religious litmus test for public office?

Bruce Braley & Iowa

Last week, in a Quinnipiac University Poll of 1,411 registered Iowa voters, 57% of them didn't know enough about Rep. Bruce Braley (D-IA) to form an opinion of him which is the reason Mr. Braley is doing non-stop meet and greets across Iowa.  Just this past Friday he was in Hampton, Clarion, Humboldt, Webster City and Iowa Falls.  Meanwhile the second or third tier GOP candidates are scrambling for position in what will become a bloody primary fight among "red meat conservatives".  It will be fun to watch.  My friends from Bleeding Heartland have a complete review of the poll right here.  Promise to come back? (Photo: Bruce Braley with supporters in Humboldt, Iowa.)

Plenty Of Back-Slapping in Des Moines

When there should have been some ass-kicking.  The Iowa Legislature packed up and left town last week leaving behind some awful legislation.

• Property Taxes - The legislature gave a huge gift to corporations by reducing their property tax burden.  Same goes for landlords. Of course it's all designed to offer "job creators" the ability to invest in...BS.  I visited with an spokesperson for the apartment industry and asked if landlords will use this new tax plan as a way to reduce rents. "Why, no. They will use the money to update their facilities."  And...charge more rent no doubt.  Meanwhile the city and the county where you live will be forced to cut services or find another way to raise revenue to cover the $741 million shortfall.  Stupid...stupid...stupid compromise.
• Health Care for Iowa's Poor - I dunno...yet. Sen. Jack Hatch (D-Des Moines) says it's a good deal.  Gov. Terry Branstad (R-IA) says it's a good deal.  Much remains to be seen regarding the 75,000 folks who are up to 138% over the poverty line. Details kids...details.
• Education Reform - More money for schools is good (4% in 2013/2014 & another 4% the following school year) but there are some troubling details in the "teacher accountability" portion.  I dunno...details.

And that's the biggest problem.  The legislature in their rush to "get out of Dodge" allowed little media review and public input regarding these items.  I'm betting "The Devil is in the Detail" comes back to haunt us.

Combined Reporting

I know, "Huh?".  Nobody wants to talk about this wonderful way in which Iowa can fix any ongoing budget woes.  The simple explanation is that out-of-state corporations, who now avoid paying much in the way of state taxes, would be required to submit tax returns as an entity without shifting income and expenses to a more "tax friendly" state.  Many "pro-business" people don't want to talk about combined reporting because, and you guessed it, it might just hurt the "job creators".  Weary..

Speaking of Leaving Town...

I see where my friend Jason Glass the former director of the Iowa Department of Education is headed back home to Colorado as the Superintendent of the Eagle County School District.  I will miss his candor on Twitter.  He was always responsive and I enjoyed his friendship.  And...he's moving on up.  Salary here in Iowa was $147,000 while the advertised salary in Colorado is $175,000.  Nice going...and they have mountains.

Jim Zabel

When I came to Iowa in 1979 Jim Zabel had already been broadcasting here for 30 years.  I met him only once.  He was fun, loud and full of energy.  "Z" died last week at the age of 91 at his home in Arizona about 45 minutes after leaving a message with former Iowa quarterback Chuck Long asking him if he would consider being on his Sunday evening show "Two Guys Named Jim".  You could say Mr. Zabel died doing what he loved...working.

Partly Personal

Here in Iowa it's cold and rainy for the 2013 Memorial Day Weekend.  While those folks holding outdoor graduation parties might not like it...I think it's perfect.  Memorial Day, while to some, is the beginning of summer but for many of us it is a hallowed day spent in memory of those who gave and continue to give their lives in defense of our nation.  No loud fireworks or gaudy floats will you find in the cemeteries of America.  On this day flags fly and people, rightly, remember.

For those of you who have come to enjoy Mom & Me...thanks.  I continue to post quick stories about my soon to be 93 year-old mother and the stuff she says and does. Here's the link.

Finally...today Garlicpalooza is going on in Mingo, Iowa at Cleverley Farms. Always a nice event and congrats to my friend Khalil Adams (center) who graduated from Roosevelt High School of Des Moines. Sharp kid...who holds so much promise.

Have a great Sunday and thanks for reading.