SundayMorningCoffee

Sunday Morning Coffee 12 September 2021

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

The Debt Ceiling

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

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

New Poll

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

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

The Religious Exemption

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

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

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

Dave Muhlbauer 

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

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

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

49+ Candidates

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

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

Andrea Phillips

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

Partly Personal

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

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

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee - Memorial Day Edition 30 May 2021

Welcome to the Memorial Day Edition of Sunday Morning Coffee. To be honest with you I was going to skip it this week. Why? Let's say the wacky Republicans are starting to wear me down. I'm starting to wonder if those whom we honor this weekend and this day may have died in vain. Once upon a time we believed in this experiment in democracy. That seems not to be the case today.  Need proof?  Read on.

54 vs 35

If you ask any elementary school kid which number is larger: 54 or 35 many (depending on where the school is) would say the larger of the two numbers is 54.  If you asked somebody who won with a basketball score of 54 to 35 you would be looked at like a dummy. "What do you mean who won? The team with the highest score, you idiot!"  All true...except in the U.S. Senate. You see the losers there...won.

We all saw it unfold. The former president was whipping an angry crowd into a frenzy and telling them he would join them as they marched to the U.S. Capitol.  We watched as an armed group of angry white men and women stormed the Capitol seeking to over-turn the election, commit murder and destroy property...your property. 

So, what happened?  Democrats in congress asked the Republicans to join them to do an investigation into the how, what and why these thugs attacked.  Sat down with them to create a system where nobody had the upper hand. Negotiated so that the GOP could be an equal partner in seeking the truth.

But Minority Leader Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY) would have none of that and said so. Only six Republican senators joined all the Democrats and the effort went down as the losers won the day by filibustering the bill.

The losers won...35 to 54.

Why?

Let me suggest that if that mob had been "colored folks" we would have rushed to the aid of those under attack. If they had been a black, brown, Asian or Muslim group even a quarter of the size of the "White Christian Patriots" that stormed the Capitol our reaction that day would have been swift and deadly.

And then the nation would demand an investigation into the riot and we would all be clutching our pearls as the House and Senate joined together to seek the truth.

But...they were not and so there will not be that honest look at our history.  The losers...won.

The Original Sin 

You see, my friends, we have not come to grips with the original sin of this nation. That is what drives our collective thought. White Christians founded this country and then drove out and killed or enslaved anybody who was not just like them.

And you're just fine with that.

You're fine with creating a narrative that is taught in every classroom. We have a "manifest destiny"...a calling directly from God to create a nation of White Christians. 

And you are just fine with that.  Want proof?

Greg Ganske

You might remember him. He is a plastic surgeon who won a seat in congress back in 1994 defeating Rep. Neal Smith (D-IA) by six points. He stayed in congress until 2003 when the wise voters of Iowa's 4th District elected a guy we all know and love, Rep. Steve King (R-IA).

When not doing "nips and tucks" Greg is writing opinion pieces for the Des Moines Register.  He recently wrote about "Critical Race Theory" and opines that we've beat back racism in America...after all we elected Barack Obama as president. Typical GOP reasoning.

Oh But Wait...

Meanwhile we, in Iowa, and several other states ban the teaching of critical race theory and things like the 1619 Project developed by an Iowan, Nikole Hannah-Jones. Who, by the way, was just denied tenure at North Carolina University because Republicans rushed in to demand that she was a problem. Now, Hannah-Jones has let North Carolina University know that she is planning to file a discrimination lawsuit over its decision to deny her tenure.  The letter, sent this past Thursday, is from the NAACP Legal Defense Fund. (Image: New York Times)

But, yeah, Greg...we have beat back racism in America.

Fear - A Great Motivator

It is you know. White Christians in the United States are feeling more threatened as they lose their power grip. The tide has been turning for some time and so it has been met with new immigration rules, voter suppression laws and laws that give the police more power to deter First Amendment Rights. And all of it is happening right in front of you.  But, you're just fine with that.  After all the losers...won.

Bipartisan Bullshit

So you know...it really is. Democrats believe that if we are "nice" that Republicans will play fair and join them in fixing what is wrong with America. Bullshit. If Republicans don't support looking into the genesis of the January 6th Insurrection do you really think they will vote to clean up our land and water? Do you really think they will support the working family? Do you really think they will work on behalf of good paying jobs? Do you really think they will support an infrastructure bill that will do all of that and more?  Do you really think they will vote to allow more people easy access to the polls?

Really?

It is time for Democrats to quit hoping for a miracle. It ain't coming. It's time for Joe Biden and the House and Senate Democrats to start acting like winners.  The losers are.

Memorial Day 2021

And so we come back to Memorial Day. Did all of those we honor die in vain? Is this the end of our democracy?  You see, for it to work you need political parties that live in a state of reality.  We do not have that today.  Look around. From Arizona to Michigan to Pennsylvania to Georgia to Texas the GOP is not here to uphold democracy...but it is here to uphold fascism. Something that those we honor fought and died to prevent.

Partly Personal

Watched some baseball this weekend. That was good.

Finally, I usually write Sunday Morning Coffee early and cover several stories. Not this week...maybe next week I'll feel more...positive.

Thanks for reading! 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 9 May 2021 - Mother's Day

Welcome back to Sunday Morning Coffee and to Mother's Day 2021. At least this year Mother's Day seems a bit brighter...but my sense of relief is tempered by the realization of how many mothers are not with us. A sad reflection of our past year. If you are among those who lost your Mom...I am truly sorry and may her memory be a blessing.

"Bo" Obama

It was a sad day yesterday as well as we learned that the Obama family dog, Bo had died. The former president and First Lady offered their own tributes along with photos on Instagram and Twitter. It was a reminder of the humanity that occupied the White House before terror struck in 2016.

Iowa - "The Fearful State"

I'm going to submit that as the new state slogan.  Forget about all this happy talk about "Fields of Opportunities" that's old news from Governor Tom Vilsack (D-IA). We now are awash with fear.

Fear is a powerful motivator. We all know that to be true but in Iowa we have fear on steroids. You don't believe me?  Allow me to offer you this list of what some folks in Iowa fear:

• Public Education - It seems that an educated public can be a danger so the Iowa answer to that is to throttle education, punish teachers and make it more difficult to get a solid education. An educated public is a danger;
• History - Iowa fears telling historical truths. We know that because the Iowa Legislature was quick to take up bills that disallow the teaching of slavery or racial bias. In fact Republicans actually targeted the 1619 Project a creation of an Iowan from Waterloo;
• Black and Brown People - We all know that if black and brown people get educated and get a chance to join society in the mainstream that they will become "uppity" and lord only knows what would happen then. So making sure the police, and not the people, have the power we pass bills to keep "those people" down and off the streets;
• Voting - It's really a simple concept. If more people vote stuff might happen that benefits all people and not just the privileged so clearly we fear that. So the answer is to make it harder to vote and make sure the state tosses thousands of voters off the rolls. Right Secretary of State Paul Pate (R-IA);
• Women - Look, it's Mother's Day but in reality we, in Iowa, fear those who are female. We fear they may be able to make health care decisions they deem is in their best interest so, no problem, we'll simply make that a crime. And, while we're at it Iowa makes sure that businesses get a wink and a nod for unequal pay;
• Transgender Youth - Well we all "know about those people" and we fear transgender youth will invade school sports and these "trans-people" will have an unfair advantage in rowing or something.  Just because we have no proof of the situation doesn't mean that we shouldn't have a law that bans them from sporting activities;
• Poor Sick People - Iowa has it figured out that if you keep poor folks sick and simply don't deliver medical care there is money to be made while having the ability to "cull the herd". So Iowa cooked up a plan to put private corporations in charge of paying for services to poor sick people.  Fear and the ability to make money...powerful;
• Other Iowans - You never know what might spark a gunfight at the local grocery store so that fear motivated Iowa to allow you to open carry just to make sure other people will fear you and let you cut into line;
• Asians - True there are not that many Asians in Iowa but we've made sure that we elect only white people for the Iowa Senate and have only one Asian in the Iowa House.  You never know what "those people' are thinking;
• Home Rule - This is something that we really fear so the Iowa Legislature has passed bill after bill to throttle local governments from making decisions that impact their citizens. We can not have cities and school boards running amok;
• Labor Unions - Iowa fears the power that working families might enjoy if they were to join and pay union dues. Fair treatment, fair wages and the power to negotiate their working lives. That is far to dangerous for our "Iowa Values" so we pass laws to keep working families begging from the master's table.  

I'm sure we have additional fears and Iowa will be able to come up with legislative solutions to deal with them.

Transgender Sports

Last week Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) surprised even her own party when she announced, on Fox News, that she wanted a Transgender Sports Bill on her desk by the end of the session.  This while every business group in the state is clamoring for more "highly educated and motivated workers".  I was on a press conference conducted by the Interfaith Alliance of Iowa where Keenan Crow from One Iowa spoke about this issue. I invited Keenan for an interview that will air today in the Noon Hour on News/Talk 1540 KXEL.  Here is that conversation and yes, there is a business connection. Click the player to listen. 

IOB 8 May 2021 Keenan Crow

Partly Personal

My brother has been doing some sleuthing into the family tree.  Last week he found an old fountain pen in a box of things long forgotten
that had inscribed on it our grandfather's name. Our grandfather, it is well known, was an avid union member. In the 1920's he was a member of the Industrial Workers of the World, a pretty radical group of folks with major socialist ties.  He then went on to the Congress of Industrial Organizations as an organizer. That is where the story stopped. Until last week. After digging around he learned, for the first time that our grandfather joined and was elected in 1941 as the president of the United Auto Workers Local 184 based in Racine, Wisconsin. HUH? But there it is in print...and we suspect the fountain pen was a gift from the union because there is more. He is listed in the UAW paper as an "staff" to Richard Frankensteen who then headed up the aviation division of the UAW that had successfully organized the Douglas Aircraft Assembly plant in Chicago.  Here is part of the article from December of 1943. Go ahead and click to read.

Like many other things our family never discussed this. Never. In the 1940 Census my grandfather lists his occupation as "Mechanic". What is really odd is that my bet is Frank never turned a wrench in his life. Besides, I'm sure there wasn't room to write "Socialist Union Organizer".  Amazing and I am sure there is more to come as Yoni continues digging. And this clearly gives depth into our own liberal views of the world.

As a final shot, and because it's Mother's Day, an image of our Mother z"l as she visits with the casher at a local Walgreens while digging through her purse for a couple of pennies. Yep, she was "THAT Woman".  You can tell how amused the people standing in line were while she completed her transaction.  Too fun!

Thanks for reading and have a wonderful Sunday and Happy Mother's Day!  

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 6 December 2020

I promise to keep Sunday Morning Coffee brief today.  Why? I got up late!  I know, no excuse, right? Rather than catching a few extra Z's I should have been thinking about you...not me.  Maybe a little of "45" is rubbing off.  So, enough with that let's see what we've got for today and thanks for coming by!

"Will you shut up man!"

Remember when President-Elect Joe Biden, during the debate, shook his head and said to "45", "Will you shut up man". It was one of the greatest lines ever but so deserved. Yesterday "45" flew into Valdosta, Georgia (been there many times) to stump for the two back-room, stock-dealing crooks currently in the U.S. Senate. And, he did mention their names, but went on a long rant with the same baseless lies about the election that he's been spouting since the 4th of November. Never have we seen this before. He cares for no one but himself. And it is being reported that he's calling governors demanding that they overturn the votes of the people by calling a special session of the state legislature. Despot.  Just...shut...up...man.  And, go away.  If you would like to buy this mug, well why not right?  Here is a link to the maker on Etsy.

Georgia

You know why this matters. Without winning those two seats we're screwed because Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY) will continue to block the Biden/Harris Agenda. You know that.  So, today, please...send some cash to Jon Ossoff and Rev. Raphael Warnock. Do it today, please. The future of your kids and grandkids depend on it. I know it's tough this time of the year...with everything else but, this is really, really serious.  Also if you can phone-bank that too is being done by folks all over the country.  Thank you!

"Did you see that? Did you?"

Last week I was meeting with a very successful business person who asked me if I saw what was going on in Georgia with the election counts. "Did you see that? Did you? Did you see how they were pulling suitcases of votes out from under the tables? You know what you call that?" I usually try to avoid political conversations in business but, I had seen the video and I had looked at the facts so I said, "No, tell me what do they call that?" The answer, "Well, I'm a conservative and I call that stealing the election." To which I replied, "And I call that delusional."  We didn't go any further. Here is the back-story from Snopes. 

Death Panels

Remember back when President Obama was working on the Affordable Care Act and the Republicans said the measure included "death panels"? Remember that? Remember who was out in front telling America that the Democrats wanted to, "Kill gramma with their death panel". It was the senior senator from the State of Iowa, Charles Grassley (R-IA). Now that we have COVID19 the real "death panel" where nearly as many people die DAILY that died on 9/11 what do you hear? Crickets. You Sen. Grassley and Sen. Joni Ernst (R-IA) are spineless and shameful. But, then that is understandable, you come from a state that voted for not only "45" but installed a bone-headed, over-her-head, person as governor. You get, I guess, what you vote for. (Image - Des Moines Register)

176,000

Last week the Governor Kim Reynolds (R-IA) gleefully told the public that Iowa was to receive 176,000 vaccines to fight COVID19 by the end of December. I understand they are going to be given to, "front-line healthcare workers". Which, by the way, we should have been caring for nine months ago. But, I digress.  Two things about that: 1) That means we only need another three million doses and 2) The message came from Governor Reynolds so I don't believe a word of it. Not, one, word.

Not For Profit

Last week I saw a post that called for, "All non-profits to be abolished!" It was from an Iowan who was pissed that the salary of the non-profit CEO who he worked for was hundreds of times higher than those who were delivering the mission of the non-profit. I think he is wrong about his statement but right about the issue. And, I know a bit about running a large non-profit health care facility. Back in the day when I was the President/CEO of the largest long-term health care facility in Iowa my annual pay was about $125,000. I saw "about" because, frankly, I can't remember. But I do remember that my salary was one of the lowest for the industry and often lower than like facilities who had fewer patients/residents/staff. I didn't bitch...because I loved what I did and it was truly a mission. However, maybe it's time that the Board of Directors or the Board of Trustees at these non-profits take a solid look at leadership wages and benefits. That Broadlawns Medical Center pays its CEO a very hefty salary might be a place to start. By the was looks like a lawsuit was filed against the Board there. Here's a link to the Business Record. 

Partly Personal

Last night spent some time sending "welcome cards" to new Democrats in Windsor Heights. We were able to pick up quite a few in Polk County and thanks to the efforts of so many at least we "Stayed Blue".  However there is still work to be done.

Told you this would be short.  This week, on Thursday after sundown, is the start of Chanukah the eight night celebration of freedom and the liberation of the Temple. No, it is not the "Jewish Christmas" although some small gifts are usually exchanged. And the decorations usually consist of the Chanukah Menorah with nine places for candles rather than the traditional seven. Chanukah lasts for eight days and we light a candle on each evening. The ninth candle is a "servant" candle that lights the others.  There is no mention of Chanukah in the Torah which means the religious significance does not measure up to say, Passover or Rosh Hashanah or Succott. But because it is celebrated close to the Christian holiday of Christmas...it's become, for some, a pretty big deal.  Here we'll light the candles, tell well known Chanukah stories, play dreidel and eat latkes. One thing we'll truly miss this year will be the annual Vodka Latke Party that has been the "go to" event of the season with Lil & Jared Bernstein.  But, given the pandemic...

The story behind that image can be found here from Newsweek. It's quite remarkable.   

For those of you celebrating may you have a joyful and meaningful Chanukah 2020. Let's stay safe so we can do this right in 2021.

Thanks for reading. 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 29 November 2020

It's the final Sunday of November 2020...like you needed to be told...let's get into some Sunday Morning Coffee and enjoy a bit of time
together. Here is hoping you had a meaningful Thanksgiving and that you and yours are well. Tough times friends.  So, we'll start out with a slight twist this morning and look to sports rather than politics. Let's go!

OK, This is Serious

COVID19 has, once again, hit the National Football League. Early on Saturday it was reported that the Denver Broncos will lack a quarterback for their game against the New Orleans Saints. You see, all the Broncos QBs are ineligible due to coming into contact with each other. It seems Drew Lock, Brett Rypien and Blake Bortles were, at some time last week, with QB Jeff Driskel who tested positive for COVID19 on Thursday. The team will play today but it's up in the air who will handle the snaps.  See, told you this is getting serious.

Meanwhile the Thursday night game was moved to Sunday and now the unbeaten Pittsburgh Steelers will face the Baltimore Ravens on Tuesday evening. Why not...it is 2020.

But the big Midwestern Game is this evening between the Chicago Bears and the Green Bay Packers. Oh yeah.... Sorry for the divergence let's claw our way back to politics.

He's Running!

The "Clown Car" that has been running around shouting about voter fraud is running out of gas. Crazy Uncle Rudy continues to show up and make a us wince at the antics. Meanwhile its looking more and more like "45" will run again in 2024 and some are suggesting that he will announce his candidacy on Inauguration Day, January 20, 2021. All of which makes sense. But you've gotta be thinking that that move will frost others, in what once was the Grand Old Party, as they were frothing at the mouth to run. Mike Pence always the bridesmaid never the bride.

Obama

Speaking of Mike Pence what a sorry bastard he is. This weekend MSNBC has been running a four-part special "Obama" and it was enlightening. Lots of great stories that I'd missed and some familiar bits that still resonate. One of those misses was just how badly then Congressman Mike Pence (R-IN) wanted to defeat the Affordable Care Act. The special showed speech after speech of how the six term congressman bellowed about the "socialist takeover" of health care.  He was...and no doubt is...a true believer in denying health care to Americans. You can hide a bunch behind that label of "Caring Christian".

Shit Hole Country

Remember when "45" blasted third world nations as "shit hole countries"? I know, it's hard to keep up but now I wonder if, because he is so very good at projecting, if he were really foreshadowing the United States? Millions are ill with COVID19, the economy (it is not Wall Street) is in shambles and about to get worse, unemployment continues to rise, those on extended unemployment will lose benefits the day after Christmas, putting political pals in charge of the Pentagon, AstraZeneca last week admitted they gave only a half-dose of their vaccine to some study volunteers...and the Broncos don't have a quarterback.

Yikes!  What have we become under this mad-man? Looks a hell-of-alot like some shit hole county and this guy wants to run for president...again. Heaven help us. (Image - East Bay Times)

America Did Fail Our Kids

Looking back at the election it's easy to see we've got a bunch of work to do as we head into 2022. That the Democrats failed to hold a number of seats in the House and failed to take out Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and capture the Senate is an abject failure. Sure, we were able to elect Joe and Kamala but really kids...what the hell? I live in Iowa and here the state not only went for "45" but we also were not able to hold but one of the Democratic House Seats with Congresswoman Cindy Axne cruising to victory because of Polk County. If the party doesn't change direction look for disaster in the Mid-Terms.  That change needs to come in the form of local organizing now. Enough of this waiting for the DNC to tell us what to do it's clear they haven't got a clue.  As the great Congressman Thomas "Tip" O'Neill (D-Mass) said, "All politics is local." and that means that we can rise only on drilling down to what our folks want at the local level.

Let me give you but one example: If I hear one more Democrat utter the words "defund the police" I'm gonna lose it. Those three words were used as a billy-club against us. Come on, there must be some smart people out there...someplace. Weary.

Partly Personal

A couple of weeks ago I was on a call with members of the Iowa Democratic Black Caucus. I joined this group months ago because I believe in the idea of being an ally to the cause of equality...real equality. There is no way I can feel what it is like to be Black in America but I can do what I can to help fix what is an awful history...past and, frankly, present.  There was a discussion about story telling, letting the people know who and what the Iowa Democratic Black Caucus is about and what folks on the local level can do to move forward in the fight for equality. I had an idea and privately shared that with some in leadership positions. Crickets. OK, maybe it wasn't such a good idea. I dunno...maybe.

It was a weird Thanksgiving. I suspect, judging from my social media feeds, it was much the same for you. Usually our table is lined with family and friends this year it was just me and my Bride...and the dogs. It was beautiful and meaningful and loving.  Meanwhile millions of people ignored the advice of the experts and traveled. I can only hope and pray that those decisions don't come back to bite us in the weeks ahead. I know you are weary of this and I know that it could have been different if only we had taken COVID19 seriously at the beginning. But, now is not the time to give up. Take care of yourself and those you love...by refusing to gather. We need more time.

Thanks for reading... 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 23 August 2020

 

Gather around my friends and grab a hot cup of Sunday Morning Coffee...mixing politics with a bit of religion for over a decade. I get to write about the stories you've seen or, perhaps, missed all laced with my commentary. It's what I get to do while you're snoozing. Enough...let's go!

It Was A Grand Convention

The 2020 Democratic National Convention held my interest each night. Gone were the crowds and the noise. Every speaker, it seemed, was speaking directly to me. Oh, I get it...those of you who have actually been to the convention long for the friends, the noise and the
excitement...oh, and the parties. But this was a fitting way in which we got a healthy dose of policy and purpose. Loved the panel discussion with Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) with the others who were locked into the very long primary season. It was refreshing and, frankly, fun.

The no-holes barred speech by Michelle Obama and the measured address by President Obama were both a call to action and sanity. Then on Thursday night Vice President Joe Biden spoke. As my brother said in a phone call after the speech, "Where in the hell has that been? Had he unleashed THAT during the primary season it would have been lights out long before the election." He's right. It was both emotional and on point. Now the question is, "Are you ready to go to work?" We've got 73 days...73...to right this grand ship.

BTW, if you had not yet seen this...you should:

 

Meanwhile...

The S*it Show ramps up tomorrow evening. Four nights of lies and bluster designed not to bring a nation together but to further divide us. Take your meds and pop some corn... Looking at the line up of speakers I noticed that Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) one of the most ardent fans of "45" isn't scheduled. I understand that she's too busy trying to figure out her latest attempt at "COVID Math".  Weary.

Four Times

By Thursday evening "45" couldn't take it anymore. So he called into the Sean Hannity Show. Sean is always willing to allow the president time to spew garbage and he didn't disappoint. At least four times during the broadcast "45" talked about how the upcoming November election is going to be a "fraud". "You know, Sean, they are sending ballots out to who knows who. Even dead people are getting them. They mailed out 50 million ballots to nobody knows. I'm telling you this is going to be the most dishonest election in history!" Clearly "45" is setting it up so that when he loses he can claim that the voting was rigged and we'll have yet another battle on our hands.  It's sad that the president doesn't seem to know the difference between a ballot and a ballot request. But, make no mistake...he knows and he's just feeding his base. Speaking of which...

Civil War

I will admit to you that among my several thousand Facebook "Friends" there is a small group of "Christian Patriots" and "MAGA Forever" folks. And...oh my. It's entertaining, and a bit scary, to read their screeds. One of the increasing themes is that if "45" loses in November there will be armed resistance against the incoming Biden Administration. "If we are denied at the polls in this fake election we're ready to go to war..."  No joke. Meanwhile the conspiracy theories that are shared are also..."out there". The "Deep State" rant is pretty regular so too is the not so veiled accusation that Democrats engage in the traffic of children for sex. All of the hallmarks of way too much time crawling the Web looking for conspiracy theories that match their political bent. 

Here is another interesting thought. Shakespeare, in Hamlet, offers this well known line: "The lady doth protest too much, methinks". It's a common way in which people indicate doubt concerning someone's sincerity.  Ever notice how many folks that rail against LGBTQ issues, pedophilia, and minorities seem to have a secret life?  Just throwing that out there...

Go Back To School!

It's official, the Des Moines Public Schools have joined the Iowa City Public Schools and the Iowa State Education Association in taking Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) and her administration to court regarding her demand that schools open up for in person learning. A hearing is scheduled for 3 September. The interesting thing is, and I'm not an attorney, that, from my understanding, the law is pretty clear on who  makes local education decisions. 

I was reading a news account, on line, about the decision of the DMPS to join in this effort and was struck by a comment made by a very angry citizen: "I don't understand these teachers and why they are so fearful of teaching in person. I'm an essential worker and so too are my kids, we work in a grocery store, and we come into contact with all kinds of people and you don't see us not showing up to work!" Well, there is a slight difference. Those essential workers, whom we are all grateful for, in your grocery store have contact with people, most of whom now wear masks, for only a few minutes. Meanwhile in the petri dish we call a classroom teachers are in a room with dozens of kids every day, for extended periods. Have any of you been to anything lately where kids are gathered? There isn't any social distancing or masks or even adults being adult and demanding the kids be safe. It ain't happening. Here is the prediction...especially here in Polk County...I'll give those districts maybe two weeks before they are forced to shut stuff down due to community spread. I know teachers want to teach and kids are eager to get back to school but...had we taken all of this more seriously months ago...we might....might....be prepared to open up. But the governor failed. (Image 6ABC)

Cedar Rapids

Speaking of failure. The Governor of Iowa had her "Katrina Moment"...or should I say "Katrina Days". It took Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) days before activating the National Guard to help in storm clean up. It took even longer for her to request federal aid. And it took her several days to even visit the states second largest city that by all accounts is in tatters. I was listening to City Administrator, and one-time Des Moines resident, Jeff Pomerantz talk about how during the last flood about 7 square miles of the city was impacted. However the storm impacted 75 square miles of Cedar Rapids.  Even today they are still struggling. What a failure...and so many are giving her such good marks on her handling of the state. Weary... (Image: Wall Street Journal from 22 August 2020)

Meanwhile the devastation to the corn crop is going to be another hit for farmers. Already reeling from low prices and exports Iowa farmers are taking stock of millions of acres of ruined crops and livestock.

Partly Personal

It's going to be sunrise in a few minutes...need to get this posted. My Bride got back from her extended trip hiking and back-packing the Porcupine Mountains of Northern Michigan. By all accounts it was a great trip and, from the photos I saw, the area is beautiful. No injuries but one tired lady. She "zonked" for about 11 hours Saturday night and then spent hours yesterday unpacking and repacking her equipment.  Last year the Grand Canyon this year the Porkies.  Got to hand it to her.

 

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 12 July 2020

Yes, it's already been a week! Sunday Morning Coffee is served and this is my weekly look at some of the news stories you've seen or, perhaps missed, all laced with my commentary.  It's how we spend our Sunday Morning together.  Let's go:

Mob Boss

There is no doubt that the presidency has now become that lawless mob boss. The guy associates and has had in his employ felons and this past week did what many expected and comminuted the sentence of one of his associates. I would look for others in the coming months as he gins  up false stories about, well, everything. You know there doesn't even have to be a poll taken for The Worst President of All Time. We, ladies and gentlemen, have a winner. I present you with "45".

A Promise is a Promise

Back during the 2016 campaign "45" told us he could not release his tax returns, as done by every candidate prior, because he was in an audit. Well, of course he lied. After the election we were told we would never see them. But, a promise is a promise and just like his supporters love to say, "I like him because he does what he said he would do." (Remember that?) Well now a New York Grand Jury will get a peek into his finances. He doesn't like it much but, Mr. President you did say you would release them.

More Winning!

Last week the U.S. hit 3,000,000 COVID-19 cases and over 133,000 deaths. Once again it's America First. Congratulations "45" you are making the United States the pariah of the nations. The botched national response has been a dismal failure and it all lands on the president. But, the White House has a new plan they've been rolling out. It's really brilliant. Ready?  The new administration plan is to ignore the pandemic. "Move on people we've got other things to do like blame Obama for, well, everything."  Voting matters.

Speaking of Failures

The governor of the State of Iowa is a absolute failure and, taking a page from "45's" playbook works with words to downplay the seriousness of the coronavirus. She loves to say, "Eighty percent of Iowans will not get the disease." Of course she has zero proof that is accurate and fails to mention that twenty of one-hundred will get sick enough to end up in a hospital and, perhaps, die. Last week she prevented the Mayor of Muscatine, Diana Broderson, from ordering facemasks in her community. Do you remember when Republicans were the leaders of local control? That ended when Branstad continued his dubious reign and started enforcing state policies over local control. Remember the minimum wage debate Johnston and Polk counties? 

I really should run for governor. But first I need to get a couple of DUI's and then find Jesus.  I'll let you know how that rolls.

Promises, Promises

Here is the latest in the failure of Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) and this one goes deep. Remember when she promised to issue an executive order restoring voting rights to felons who had served their time?  Remember? Well, not so fast my Sunday Morning Coffee friends. She has said she will do so but is "waiting for the right time". Here is my latest conspiracy theory. Several county auditors (who happen to be Democrats) have said they will be sending out voter requests to all registered voters in their county so they might be able to vote by mail. (Something that the GOP is so very scared of happening.) So, the governor sits on her promise because making two general mailings (one for registered voters and another for felons who have their voting rights restored) costs way more money.  So...why not continue to delay the executive order so we can cut down on the time needed to send out the requests, get them back, process them and send a ballot. 

You've got to hand it to the GOP they are experts on voter suppression.

Go To School!!

The fix is in. The president says we must have kids go back to school and in person. The American Academy of Pediatrics says in a recent report that keeping kids out of schools has damaged their academic abilities and may have even cause increased health issues such as obesity. I'm not making that up.  Meanwhile the CDC gets hammered by "45" who wants new "simpler" guidelines for school re-opening. And, of course, the governor of Iowa agrees. Meanwhile parents and grandparents are, mostly, out of the loop. Never mind that schools don't have the resources to hire additional teachers and expand their physical locations so there can be "social distancing" and...let's get real...have you seen the way kids "social distance"?  It ain't happening. Meanwhile these kids leave the "germ factory" and go home to their parents or grandparents who are providing care because day-care in Iowa is so damn expensive and BAM.  "What? You got the ronna?" 

One other wacky idea. Some school districts are giving a choice on remote or in-person education and others say they will have in-person schooling just two or three days a week. No doubt they know something that we don't...like COVID-19 takes off on Tuesday and Thursday.  And, these people are supposed to be the bright folks.

It's Personal

Last night I had an extended text visit with a good friend who has been part of our regular business news broadcast for years. She told me she is 99.9% she has the coronavirus. And, get this: She told me that on Wednesday of last week she was fine and by Thursday she had a temp of 103.5 and was so weak she could not climb the stairs.  She and her husband and young son get tested today but not through Test Iowa which delays test results for...awhile. I know her to be careful. She said she is sure she contracted the virus through her teenage son who attended a party with friends. No masks. Last night she said her son now can not smell or taste things; one of the signatures of COVID-19. I wish her well and this, my friends is serious shit.  Get it together.

Voting Matters

If you live in Polk County, Iowa good news!  The Polk County Democrats have a site where you can go and in three easy steps fill out a vote by mail application. You need your drivers license number or the Voter ID number (that nobody knows they have) to fill out your request.  You send it in to the Polk County Auditor, Jamie Fitzgerald and they take it from there.  I heard that his office has seen, already a tremendous response. Here is your LINK to VotePolk.com!  Go right now and get this done...  OK?

Dave Miglin for Broadlawns

One other Polk County, Iowa story you need to know.  My friend Dave Miglin is running for a seat on the Broadlawns Medical Center Board of Trustees. I was under the impression that because Broadlawns is in Des Moines those of us who live outside of the city could not vote. Oh, but NO!  Citizens of Polk County do vote in this election. Here is Dave's website.  Write down his name and when you get your ballot make sure you vote.  He is a progressive business person who will do well for this hospital.

Partly Personal

Yesterday, as is my custom, I took the day off. No social media or shopping or other regular stuff. It was, after all, Shabbat. Except I did go to our granddaughters softball game.  I've been several times since these twelve-year-olds have been back on the field and I can report that whoever decided the social distancing rules for girls softball missed the mark.  The players...nah...they are screaming, chanting and huddling. No worries...kids don't get this virus you know.  The fans are not allowed to sit on bleachers but they are crowded into groups along the first and third baselines. No masks...it's business as usual.  Me?  I had my chair in an empty spot near the outfield.

Be careful out there and use your head...and wear a mask.

A shout out to my friend and computer expert Patrick Palmer of Hampton, Iowa.  Last night I was working on the radio broadcast for today, Insight on Business the News Hour, Week in Review that airs on News/Talk 1540 KXEL today at Noon when we got a "surge" that hit all of my computers. The one that I was working on went down and when I rebooted there were zero files.  I have Carbonite as a backup and started that.  Then I called Patrick.  Should have called him first. The backup restore took over three hours. Patrick had the computer fixed, remotely, in ten minutes.  Here is his website and yes, he is good at what he does and does his work remotely. Got an issue...give Patrick a call.

Thanks for reading and have a safe and healthy Sunday. 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 29 March 2020

Hey...It's the final Sunday of what many are calling a "lost month". Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee my weekly look at the stories you may have seen, or missed, all laced with my commentary. Why? Because it's what I've been doing for well over a decade and besides, sleep is overrated. So, let's move....

Massive Rallies

Just because "45" can't engage thousands of believers in stadiums where he rants and lies doesn't mean he's not holding them...he's just moved the venue to television where the, often, two hour "Coronavirus Updates" does the same thing. Actually, if you believe the polls its a smart move. The president is enjoying the largest bump in his approval rating...ever. Two weeks ago his approval rating among several polls was as 44% today it is 47%. On his handling of the pandemic, Gallup found 60% of American adults approve. A Fox News poll out Thursday found it lower, at 51%. Reuters/Ipsos and Economist/YouGov polls had it at 49%. Trouble is 'non-voters" are the ones who are giving the president the bump.  You can see the NPR story here.

Meanwhile this president continues to flounder, lie and remain ineffective when it comes to leadership. You may have forgotten the big story back on March 13 when he announced that Walmart, Target and CVS would start "massive community testing" in their parking lots. Of the 16,580 combined physical stores in the U.S. only four...four...are doing community testing.  And they are not testing "everybody".

That, my friends is just one example of the "Lost Month". Had this president been a leader and not joked and put off and dismissed COVID-19 we would all be in a better place today. This is on him. 

The Blame Game

We're now hearing calls for "unity" as the U.S. struggles and becomes the nation with the most confirmed cases of the virus on the planet.  I believe this nation is united in the reality that we are..."scared and confused" because of the mixed messaging coming from leadership. The president should, as others have suggested, take a cue from Gov. Andrew Cuomo (D-NY) and Gov. Gavin Newsom (D-CA) who offer up facts and science rather than empty promises and threats. (Image: Getty Images)

As late as yesterday the president was still blaming science, congress and even President Obama for what he, himself, did to our national readiness to address this pandemic as he cut funding all in the name of "saving money".

There have been calls for the president to "step aside" and let the doctors and science deliver the updates. That will not happen because, see above, they have become political events.  Weary.

Easter

If you want a perfect example of how tone-deaf "45" is to this nation it was his proclamation that he would like to see "business as usual" by Easter. "It would be a beautiful thing to see churches full on Easter. It's much better there. I know, I had to go to church last week by watching it on television." WTF?  Anybody wanna bet?  Unless it was him giving the sermon it's difficult for me to see this guy at any religious function...well, OK, he's been to a funeral or two and remember how uncomfortable he was? 

But, I digress. It would seem to me, a non-Christian, that this has now become another wedge. So, what about the Mosques, Temples and Synagogues? Anyway, I'm sorry but this guy is playing you...big time. BTW... Happy Easter.

Can't Fix Stupid

New Jersey authorities report that police charged a Wade E. Jackson with allegedly obstructing the administration of law or other governmental function, and violating the “Emergency and Temporary Acts,”. Sounds serious.  So what did Wade do?  He threw a "Coronavirus Party" in his apartment this past Friday night. Meanwhile, two Lakewood, N.J. residents were charged earlier this week after police broke up a gathering of 25 people at a school.  New Jersey what's going on there? Other than the fact that the state reported 2,289 new coronavirus cases Saturday, with a total of 11,124 in the state. At least 140 have died in New Jersey from the virus.

It's Not Really Shelter In Place

Last week, here in Iowa, Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) continued to shutter more places of business. On the list, along with salons and restaurants are furniture stores, non-essential surgeries and a host of other items. Meanwhile the governor said it is not time to issue a "shelter in place" declaration. Meanwhile there are, according to several sources, those who are saying any closing of any business or park or golf course is an illegal crackdown on their civil liberties. I wish I were kidding.

Food Production

Later today on our business news broadcast on News/Talk 1540 KXEL I've got a story about workers in food processing plants that are testing positive for COVID-19. Workers at poultry giant Sanderson Farms based in Mississippi and Smithfield Foods in South Dakota tested positive. This morning in the Des Moines Register there is a report that at JBS, a processing plant in Ottumwa, a worker has tested positive and is in isolation. The facility employees 2,200 people. In all cases the companies say production will continue and that they have added more workers to clean and sanitize the plants. (Image: Boston Globe)

To be sure the food from a plant where infection pops up doesn’t pose health concerns because by all accounts Covid-19 isn’t a food-borne illness. Supplies from a farm or a production plant with a confirmed case can still be sent out for distribution.

Yet, it is the workers who often are in close proximity to each other that is a worry.  While there has not been a disruption in food to this point it does give us some pause.

Instacart

In a related story workers at Instacart, a grocery delivery service, have said they will strike starting tomorrow if the company does not come through with better pay and protective equipment. According to a statement with the Gig Workers Collective...The workers are asking Instacart for an additional $5 per order and a default tip of at least 10% per order.

The group is also asking Instacart for safety provisions like hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, and soap, as well as expanded paid leave for people with preexisting conditions or those who are required to self-quarantine. 

News Outlets Struggling

And in case you've run out of stuff to worry about...consider this. Local news outlets are struggling even in the face of increased news consumption. It's been well documented that local newspapers, already under the gun due to declining readership and revenue, have cut staff. In some places up to 25% of the newsroom has been laid off and we could see more. Why? Declining revenue. As more and more restaurants, bars, events, furniture stores and other businesses are ordered closed who is left to pay for advertising? 

What is ironic is that as newspapers take down their pay-walls in response to getting the news out and available they are seeing a surge in band usage. For example the New Orleans Advocate and Times-Picayune announced that despite web traffic running “three to four times above normal” and digital subscriptions doubling, it would have to furlough a tenth of its staff and require the rest to work four-day weeks.

Even digital only newsrooms, like BuzzFeed have announced salary cuts in the face of lost advertising revenue.

This past week, here in Des Moines, Big Green Umbrella Media, the publishers of Cityview and the stable of Iowa Living Magazines, shut down due to revenue lost. 

Radio and Television stations are also feeling the crunch and changing formats and cutting staff.

My friend Rick Green, who was once stationed in Des Moines at the Des Moines Register and is now the editor for the Louisville Courier Journal, put out a four minute video explaining the situation and how his paper is attempting to overcome the revenue loss and, how critical it is that the news gets out to an ever expanding public hungry for information. (Image from 2013 at DSM Register.)

All of this...matters.

Partly Personal

OK...enough...right?  Sorry for the stark look at our world today but it's all real. However, on the positive side we have witnessed some interesting and hopeful moments. People out walking with their families, stopping to chat (at a safe distance) and engaging each other online.  Some have even suggested that when we get on the other side of this crisis we very well may come out better; more engaged and less isolated.

My friend Chef Michael Leo, who is currently quarantined in Austria at a resort no less, said much the same thing to me yesterday in a video chat. "I think, when this is over, we will start to understand how important it is to become more like our parents and grandparents. We may start to believe in "buy local" as more than a slogan and really start to support each other professionally and personally." (Image from Strudl Haus - 2016)

I hope he is right.

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 27 October 2019

Long before the sun comes up on Sunday Morning I get to reflect on the political news that you may have seen, or missed, all laced with my commentary. Why sleep when you can enjoy a steaming hot cup of Sunday Morning Coffee. Let's go!

I Did It

I'm writing this long, long before "45" gathers you together around your video box and tells you he was responsible for taking out the head of ISIS. He did it. Of course back in 2012 all "45" could do was author anti Obama tweets saying that the then president should not take credit for the killing of Bin Laden. For example on October 22, 2012 he wrote: Stop congratulating Obama for killing Bin Laden. The Navy Seals killed Bin Laden. In total over that day there were no less than 8 tweets...saying about the same thing.

But that...was then. 

Nancy Pelosi

Yesterday about 700 people crowded into Sheslow Auditorium at Drake University for "A Conversation with Nancy Pelosi". It was an event put together by the Polk County Democratic Party. And, frankly, it was a major event. Consider that the Speaker of the House came to Des Moines to answer questions posed by attendees rather than stand and give a speech was remarkable. Following introductions by county chair Sean Bagniewski Congresswomen Cindy Axne spoke about the efforts she and her fellow members have been working on including over 400 bills passed but yet to be taken up by the Senate.

She answered questions for about ninety minutes. Including what led up to that photo of her standing up to "45" which the White House released following that abrupt meeting. She spoke to the efforts of the House to improve the lives of working American families. Such as the move to lower the cost of prescription drugs, end dark money in politics, combat voter suppression, and get health care costs in line. 

One of the lines, that I thought was exceptional, was when she quoted Thomas Paine by saying, "The time has found us...". She then spoke to how the unity of so many people from so many different backgrounds, races, religions and lifestyles have formed an organization committed to unity and to the mission of improving the lives of working
families.

Yep, it was pretty good.

But NOTHING like this "just happens". Here are the volunteers and staff from the Polk County Democrats that made this happen. (You can click to enlarge.) Thank you all!

Meanwhile in Wisconsin

You don't have to travel too far to see how folks tend to forget the past. A photo taken this past spring in Baraboo, Wisconsin appears to show dozens of high school students giving the Nazi salute. On the, now deleted, social media post one student remarked, "We even got the black kid to throw it up." At least one student is seen making the OK gesture, which some associate with white supremacists.

Your parents must be so very proud...and I'm sure the colleges and universities that you've applied to will all take this in stride.  Not to mention future employers. Here is the full story from CBS News.

Long Term Care in Iowa

Residents in long term care facilities in Iowa are under threat...once again. It appears that the six professionals who work as investigators with the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Cindy Pederson are going to be replaced with volunteers. If you remember, a couple of years ago the vehicles used by the professional investigators were taken away and long-term care complaints and concerns were done over the phone. Yeah...that. In speaking to one of the professionals I was told that in a year this one investigator would receive up to 700 complaints.

For those of you not aware of how the system works. When a complaint or concern is generated by a nursing home resident or family to the Ombudsman an investigator is assigned the case. The case then is handled outside of the punitive area of the Department of Inspections and Appeals. The resolution of the issue doesn't hit the negative reports of the facility. It's a system that has worked well for years but now it appears the State wishes to diminish the effort with, what can best be described, a cost saving measure.

When it comes to the most vulnerable of our citizens...the young and the old Iowa pays lots of lip-service but little in the way of actually care.

Did You Know?

In doing some research on the topic of something called "Right to Repair" I was shocked to learn how Iowa fails it's citizens and small businesses all across the state. Here is the short story: Manufacturers of everything from agricultural equipment to refrigerators and cell phones hold the secret to repairing those devices. That means that small businesses, unless they are "authorized dealers" do not have the right to repair stuff.  In one example a person purchased a refrigerator that two years later failed to work. He went online and ordered a part. Once installed he was instructed to "enter the code" to allow it to work. He had no "code" so called the manufacturer who told him he had no right to that code...even though he purchased the product and the part. 

Some time ago three members of the Iowa House introduced a bill to allow small businesses and owners to repair their purchased products but every lobbyist from car dealers to manufacturers opposed the legislation and it died in committee.  The reason?  Manufacturers make millions on repairs. They and their shareholders would hate to see that income erode. Or...so it seems.

Horror in West Des Moines!

This week Iowa House member Representative Kristin Sunde (D-WDM) had a really great idea for a fund raiser. She put together a Halloween themed event where adults and kids dressed up in costumes. It was not only inventive but also big fun.

You know, sometimes you've got to hand it to these creative types who not only seek to actually represent their constituents but raise election dollars in an inventive way.

Well done Kristan and thanks for the invite!

Interesting Times in Windsor Heights

Never a dull moment here when it comes to city politics. Last week former Windsor Heights City Administrator Elizabeth Hanson filed a lawsuit following her termination in April. She is suing the city and Windsor Heights City Council members Threase Harms, Zac Bales-Henry, Mike Jones, Joseph Jones and Michael Loffredo. 

From the reporting of KCCI: "The lawsuit indicates Harms spent substantial personal capital making city employees' lives more difficult by attempting to undermine them and berating and bullying them at council meetings. It also says Harms created a work environment sufficiently hostile that two separate complaints had been filed by employees.

Hanson said she believes her contract was not renewed in retaliation for supporting the complaints."

There are also allegations about improper meetings taking place outside of the open meetings law. 

It's sort of a mess with the city elections coming up. Harms is seeking a second term while Bales-Henry decided not to run.

All of this has resulted in former City Councilman Tony Timm to mount a write-in campaign. Timm ran for mayor in 2017 but was defeated by anti-sidewalk champion Dave Burgess. It seems, by the phone calls and messages that I've gotten, that there is great interest in the still developing campaign.  Mr. Timm, who is a Democrat, will be speaking to the Windsor Heights Democrats meeting later this week.  Stay tuned.

Partly Personal

Later today I'll be joining other activists who are committed to reducing gun violence in Iowa. There is an active working group formed by the Interfaith Alliance of Iowa. As always it's vital that we turn faith into action.

In addition, and in case you are interested, I'm working every day to gather the support of Democrats across the Metro and in Senate District 22 as I run for that office.  If your interested in helping this life-long Democrat...you can sign up here!

Thanks for reading and have a fantastic Sunday! 

Sunday Morning Coffee 25 August 2019

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

Czar of Business

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

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

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

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

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

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

Weary.

Tariffs and You

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

It's just...money.

All You Need To Know

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

Public Policy Issues

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

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

Looking forward to Labor Day...you?

Polk County Steak Fry

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

Partly Personal

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

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

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

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday!