SundayMorningCoffee

Sunday Morning Coffee 12 December 2021

Looks like Spring is on the way this week. Less snow to shovel. It's Sunday Morning Coffee some politics, opinion, religion...all the stuff that makes folks happy and gay. Let's go.

Bye, Bye Constitution

Well, that didn't take long. Just hours after the Supreme Court let stand a restrictive abortion law in Texas that allows private citizens to sue providers, people assisting with travel and the patient themselves for thousands of dollars Gov. Gavin Newsom (D-CA) has directed his attorney general to create a similar law that would, effectively, ban the sale, ownership and manufacturing of specific firearms. How,? By allowing private citizens to sue dealers, manufacturers and owners thereby working around the pesky Second Amendment.

I can see it now. Let's say the good people of Wisconsin really don't like having mosques in their state. So they pass a law allowing citizens to sue individuals who attend, run or lead those institutions. Or the fine people of Arkansas have had it with folks who are not white moving into a neighborhood. The city or state could pass a law that allows its citizens to sue realtors or homeowners who engage in that sales activity. The list is pretty long. Go ahead and dream up your own.

Careful what you wish for...

Gotta Brag More

The media is having fun pointing out the fact that President Biden's poll numbers are in the tank. Pundits have all kinds of reasons this is happening. Most suggest it is a disconnect from what the president has accomplished vs. what they are being told his administration has accomplished. What to do?  It's really simple, the president needs to take a page from the former president's playbook and brag more. Hell, even make stuff up. Then repeat the lie at every opportunity.  Within weeks his poll numbers will surge. Jen, you can thank me later.

I Hear You

Each day I do a business newscast highlighting the top business stories of the region and nation. Last week we got the report that inflation kicked up 6.8% over November of 2020. Fuel is more expensive, groceries are more expensive, dining out is more expensive. What is stunning is to look at what was the projected inflation rate for 2021 which was 2.8%. Of course that projection was  pre-COVID and, in truth the reason our inflation rate is so high is...COVID.  

Follow the logic: The Federal Reserve put their foot on the gas and kept interest rates at zero for months. That fuels the overall economy. Add to that the billions of dollars in stimulus checks that went out over the past year. That added to the buying power of Americans that, if they were able to keep and maintain a good job supercharged their disposable income.  Yet, because of the pandemic travel for business and pleasure tanked, people couldn't go to restaurants, the opera, Broadway...  So, they started buying stuff...lots of stuff. Then came the supply chain disruption, again, caused by COVID, early retirements and lousy transportation pay. 

What do you expect? 

Here is another issue: There has been a massive consolidation in the meat industry. Four major companies now control 82% of that industry. Twenty years ago it was 15%. Competition drives down costs and in this industry there is little.

Finally the tariffs that are in place need to go. I've been reporting for years that those tariffs only hurt consumers. How? Because suppliers simply pass those costs on to the end user/buyer...that would be you.

I see inflation ebbing in 2022 mostly because we'll be taking action on a number of those pain points. But...hey, I could be wrong.

Where Are The Workers?

Last week I attended a breakfast hosted by the Greater Des Moines Partnership where they ticked off their seven legislative priorities for 2022. Here they are:

• Fund the Des Moines International Airport Project - This has been on the burner for years. Maybe now with massive federal help we'll get this done;
• Talent - It's nice to see the Partnership concerned about attracting talent to the state. They might have some luck if we repeal "Right to Work", fight against discrimination in all forms, properly fund public education, actually pay people well, provide effective and responsive health care...maybe then folks might think Iowa could be a "place to grow";
• Pro-Growth Tax Policies - This is always a favorite of the business community. If they could pay zero in taxes they would be all in. That is why Winnebago Industries moved their corporate offices to Minnesota. Oh, wait...Minnesota has a higher tax rate.  Let me get back to you on that.  It's really about "trickle-down economics" that has been a proven failure but we've gotta stick this in to make big business like us more;
• Community Placemaking - "We don't have mountains or beaches..." is the line we often hear. This priority is something that will attract talent because it's all about "quality of life" that can and will attract and retain...talent. 
• Child Care - This is yet another "talent" related issue. Women have left the workforce at an alarming rate because they have figured out it's better to forgo that salary than pay for child care that rivals a house payment. Meanwhile we put children at risk as parents without means send their kids to unlicensed unregulated child care centers.  We can and should do better.
• Housing - The one word that escapes the rational is...affordable. When people in Iowa are paying up to 50% off their monthly income for housing...it ain't affordable.
• Broadband - Yes and yes. I've said for over a decade that support of broadband internet access is critical to the economics of any community. We'll see how the Feds handle this in the coming months.

That leaves the question that was asked during the Q&A session when a business person rose and said this to the legislative panel: "There are help wanted signs everywhere. Businesses are struggling to find workers. Where have all the workers gone?"  If you have a couple of minutes click on the audio from a recent newscast...and I'll share that answer.

Worker Shortage IOB SMC 12 December 2021

Partly Personal

It was a busy week but really interesting. From working on some new video projects to a long sit-down with my city administrator to a full weekend at my congregation in Mason City. Never a dull moment. 

Last night, after getting home from Mason City I had the pleasure of attending a kick-off event for my friend Suresh Reddy who has launched his campaign for the Iowa House. Suresh is currently on the city council for Johnston, Iowa and has been such a positive force there especially when it comes to issues of financial stability and diversity. He'll take those same talents to the Iowa Legislature. He is running in Iowa House District 43 against a guy that has his nose so far up into radical GOP politics that he is indistinguishable from the former president, whom he loves. Suresh Reddy is ready to lead and be a voice for all Iowans and you can help support him by heading to his website.

Also at the event was my friend Kimberly Graham who is running to become the next Polk County Attorney. I have long supported Kimberly because I see her as a real change artist for so many issues that revolve around inequality and injustice. And, last night, I learned my friend is engaged!  Yikes...I missed that memo.  Congratulations!  You can help support Kimberly by going to her website.

That's a wrap...gotta go. Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday! 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee - The Chanukah Edition 28 November 2021

Maybe it's the holiday. I'm not feeling snarky this morning. Sunday Morning Coffee is all about being a bit snarky...right?  But, to stay with tradition let's dive into a couple of the top of mind items.

COVID

We ain't done yet and the news out of Europe is troubling. Austria goes into a lock-down, a new variant out of South Africa. Flying restrictions and nobody knows...nothin'. This way of life has been with us for nearly two years and I fear so many people are letting their guard down. That some still refuse to get the vaccine is awful and something I can not understand. Now that the weather is colder and folks are congregating inside...well, you get the drift. Get vaccinated, wear a mask when out and keep the hell away from other folks. You never know.

Whining 

Meanwhile Americans are back to whining. President Biden's approval rating is lower than it's ever been. Another thing I don't get. We've just gotten a major piece of legislation passed that will have a huge impact on our ability to use roads and bridges and get parts of our nation connected and people are...whining. The president wants you to get vaccinated and you are whining. You can't go out and buy the latest gizmo and you are whining. We just passed Thanksgiving and rather than being thankful...you are whining. Weary.

Elon & Lauren

It seems Mr. Musk and Rep. Boebert (R-CO) have something in common at least when it comes to rich people and taxes.

Musk and Boebert tweeted out their disapproval of the Biden administration's proposal to expand the Internal Revenue Service's number of employees under the Build Back Better agenda. Under the proposal, the IRS would hire nearly 87,000 new workers over the next decade in an effort to close the "tax gap" by collecting unpaid taxes owed by large corporations, partnerships, and wealthy individuals.

Musk paid no federal income tax in 2018, the same year he was the world's second-richest person.

According to a May report from the Department of Treasury, the tax gap — the difference between taxes owed to the government and what is actually paid — will rise to more than $7 trillion over the next decade, or roughly 15% of taxes owed. (Photo - New York Post)

The report went on to say, "These unpaid taxes come at a cost to American households and compliant taxpayers as policymakers choose rising deficits, lower spending on necessary priorities, or further tax increases to compensate for the lost revenue. The tax gap disproportionately benefits high earners who accrue more of their income from non-labor sources where misreporting is common."

And, I think his EV truck is silly looking...so there.

Partly Personal

Told you I just wasn't in the mood today.  Maybe it's Chanukah or the combination of Thanksgiving and Chanukah? So let me leave you with this:

Tonight we will light the first of eight candles on the Chanukah Menorah. It's a holiday that is not in the bible but it is a holiday that marks an important historical event. So let me leave you with this, which I wrote for my congregation in Mason City:

"No, it is not the Jewish Christmas..." That is what I tell students who have no relationship with the festival, which, by the way, is not something that is ordained in the Torah. Sure, Chanukah happens around the same time as the Christian celebration and yes, there are lights being lit and yes some gifts are given but that ends the similarity. The rest is...history.

In 167 BCE, the Syrian-Greek emperor, Antiochus, set out to destroy Judaism and incorporate the Land of Israel and its inhabitants into his empire. His soldiers attacked Jerusalem, massacring thousands of people and desecrating the city’s holy Second Temple by erecting an altar to Zeus and sacrificing pigs within its sacred walls.

However Antiochus knew that was not the way to destroy the Jewish faith. He had to work on destroying the entire structure of the Jew so he made studying and teaching the Torah illegal. Next, he issued a ban prohibiting the practice of three mitzvot: 1) Sabbath observance 2) sanctifying of the new month (establishing the first day of the month by testimony of witnesses who saw the new moon) 3) brit mila (entering the Covenant of Abraham through Torah-ordained circumcision).

He knew that by forcing the people to assimilate and be out of touch with their faith he could destroy the Jews once and for all.

Enter the Maccabees

A family of Jewish priests – Matityahu and his 5 sons, known as the Maccabees – would not have it. They started a revolt and three years later succeeded in evicting the oppressors. The victory was a true miracle – on the scale of present day Israel being able to defeat the combined forces of all of today’s super-powers. This also explains why the emblem of the State of Israel is a menorah.

Once the Jewish people regained control of the Temple in Jerusalem, they wanted to rededicate it immediately.

In order to do so, they needed ritually pure olive oil to re-light the menorah in the Temple, which was a part of the Temple’s nightly service. However, only a single cruse of oil was found, just enough to burn for one day though they needed oil for eight days – the time it would take for new ritually pure olive oil to be produced. A miracle occurred and the oil burned for eight days. Thus, the Temple was rededicated; in fact, Hanukah means “to dedicate” in Hebrew.

And so, starting on Sunday evening we will light the first candle in the nine-branch menorah. Why nine? One of the candles is a "servant" candle. It is used to light the other candles, adding one each night of the festival until all eight candles are burning...along with the servant candle.  Also each night we tell a story about Chanukah, play a game called dreidel and eat latkes...potato pancakes that are fried in oil. Yes, there is that oil connection again.

Even the dreidel game has a meaning. It's played with a "top" that has four sides. On each side is a Hebrew letter a nun, gimmel, hey, and shin. The first letters represent the phrase “nes gadol haya sham – a great miracle happened there.”

So, even in playing a game...we remember the miracle of Chanukah.

Happy Chanukah and thanks for reading!

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 21 November 2021

Chilly day in Central Iowa so it's time for some hot Sunday Morning Coffee! Politics and opinion with a dash of religion to make it all interesting. Thanks for coming by!  Let's go!

Open Carry

It was interesting how the defense attorney for Karl Rittenhouse played the jury. Oh, no, wait. That was the judge the "other" defense attorney for Rittenhouse. What the decision says is that open carry at a protest wrought with unrest is lawful and if you want to exercise your Second Amendment rights go for it. And, if somebody objects just shoot to kill. It's no wonder other nations look at the U.S. and shake their heads.  However that rule is only for white folk vigilantes who wish to engage demonstrators with deadly force. You people of color...don't be pickin' up them arms you is likely to be killed first and questions be asked later. Questions like, "What the hell did that boy think bringin' a gun to our insurrection? Well, we ain't gonna know 'cause the somofbitch is dead." Welcome to America....

Meanwhile in Georgia

The trial against the three white men who ran down Ahmaud Aubrey and killed him with a shotgun blast while he was jogging in his neighborhood mirrors what happened in Kenosha, Wisconsin. It's yet another case of white folks going hunting. That is bad enough but when, in jury selection, perspective jurors were asked if they supported Black Lives Matter or thought the Confederate Flag was a racist symbol. Well, you get a panel of eleven white folks and one African-American. "See we're fair down here in Georgia!" Oh, and please we need "more bubbas" and "less black pastors in the courtroom" says the defense attorney.  Welcome to America...Part Two.

Roads, Bridges and Economics

It's comforting to know that the three Republicans representing Iowa in congress voted against fixing our dealbated bridges. After all, we need that money for tax breaks for the rich. Same goes for roads, "Roads? No this is a giant government take over of our fair system of states rights." Where have we heard that before?  And, as for delivering broadband to rural parts of Iowa the Republicans, Randy Feenstra (R-IA) and Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA) and Ashley Hinton (R-IA) think it's better to keep Iowa out of the economic opportunities broadband represents. They, it would seem, long for a time when the roads were dirt and the bridges were covered and that pesky internet stuff didn't exist. Back when America was...great.

The Insurrection 

What insurrection? To give you a glimpse at how far Iowa has slid into the abyss allow me to bring you some of the results from the latest Iowa Poll that was published in the Des Moines Register this morning. I'm doing this for you because I know you don't read the Des Moines Register...hardly anybody does. But, I digress.

The headlines reads, "Half of Iowan's say Jan. 6 riot at U.S. Capitol was 'an insurrection and a threat to democracy". That would indicate that about half of Iowans either don't care or they think it's just fine to storm the capital and kill folks. Sobering?  It gets worse.

Twenty-two percent said it was, "...an unfortunate event, but it is in the past and we should move on". Eighteen percent of Iowan's believe it was a "political protest protected by the First Amendment". Another nine percent of Iowan's don't know what to think. So, let's do the math kids.  (Remember when Iowa had math?) That would be 49% of the people surveyed are pretty much OK with what happened when a bunch of folks where whipped into a frenzy by Republicans to subvert the free and open election of the President of the United States.

But...it gets better...or worse...if you will.

From the Des Moines Register: Kevin Butters, a 57-year-old poll respondent from Ankeny, is among the Republicans who say the events of Jan. 6 were protected political protest. He concedes that people probably should not have entered the Capitol that day, but he questions who exactly the intruders were. “I want to know who those people are, that were breaking in,” he said. “It could be BLM. It could be antifa. I don’t know who it is. … I don’t think they were (Trump supporters), but I don’t know that.”

Right...those hysteric people carrying flags with the name of the 45th president were from BLM.

Not to worry kids...our educational system is in great hands.  Let's move on.

Ban the Books!

As long as we're talking about education, or what is left of it in Iowa, let us turn our attention to the rantings of one state senator by the name of Jake Chapman (R-Adel).  Adel, by the way, is best known for its sweet corn feed than its ability to elect competent government officials. Jake was at a Johnston School Board Meeting. Remember, Chapman is from Adel about 27 miles away but Johnston is now fertile ground for "silly talk" given the recent school board elections there. (Photo: Des Moines Register)

Anyway Chapman says he thinks books that raise serious questions about racial division in the United States are obscene and that there should be penalties for teachers who distribute this information. Meanwhile other folks are wringing their hands over books that contain stories about LGBTQ children and parents. They too must be banned from the school library.  Chapman says his next stop with his "Ban the Book Bus" will be Waukee.  

While Iowa is banning books and throwing teachers in jail we might want to break out the "brown-shirts" and have us a good old book burning.

Partly Personal

It's Thanksgiving Week and Polk County, Iowa is trending at an 8% positivity rate for COVID-19. Should make for a nice family gathering with folks that are unvaccinated.

Meanwhile, I was in Mason City this past Sabbath for my work with the Adas Israel the Jewish Congregation of Northern Iowa. Two interesting things from that adventure: 

We had a really nice group of people visit the synagogue from a nearby church. Kids and adults sat through the Friday evening service and got a quick overview of what Jews do and believe. I honestly love having folks come to learn and I recently taught a five week class for the North Iowa Area Community College on "Judaism - Faith & Culture" I've been doing things like this for over 35 years or more. Anyway one of the adults asked me this, "Do Jews celebrate Thanksgiving?" I was a bit taken back. My simple answer was, "Well, yes I believe that most Jews in America do celebrate Thanksgiving because it is an American holiday. They unlikely celebrate Thanksgiving in France or Israel."  Another person wanted to know why there were no crosses in the sanctuary but there was a Star of David. That too was pretty easy.

The second thing that happened is scary. On the Sabbath (Shabbat or Saturday) we hold a two hour study of the Torah Portion of the week. We've been doing this for years and the people who come consist of Jews and non-Jews. It's a non-threating environment designed to allow people to learn and share their experiences and to point to how the bible impacts our lives today. We were about twenty minutes into the class when a woman joined us who is an outspoken anti-vaxxer in the community. The Board of Adas Israel has said that only those who are vaccinated may come to the study.  I asked the woman if she was vaccinated and she said, "No I am not." I shared with her the Board's rule and she stood up and said, "I believe in the Lord Jesus Christ will protect me from everything and I do not need a vaccine in my body."

OK...

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday...and may you have a safe and meaningful Thanksgiving. 

Sunday Morning Coffee 14 November 2021

There's a cold wind blowing...a perfect morning to read a bit of commentary and opinion sure to make you a bit "hot under the collar". Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee! Let's go!

John Deere

They are still on the picket line and the company has sent its "third and final" offer to the UAW workers who have been out on strike since 14 October. The most recent contact was turned down by 55% of the union members on November 2nd. That's pretty close and I hope they stay out on strike. Want to know why? Because the company is offering squat and the latest offer is worse than you might imagine. 

From the Des Moines Register this is the "tweak" offered to the workers: "Under the plan, known internally as CIPP, Deere assigns workers at its factories to teams. The company gives those teams performance targets. If teams hit 115% of their goal, those workers receive a 15% pay increase for the week." 

It's called pay for performance I guess. However why not share the wealth Deere?  Make John Deere a place where people really want to work and love it there.  I suspect the folks that run Deere love it there.  Why?  Well, when you lump the compensation of the four top executives at John Deere they make in excess of $31 million dollars. FOUR PEOPLE make in EXCESS of $31 MILLION DOLLARS. (Image: CNN)

And Deere wants its workers to produce 115% of some goal...like 100% isn't good enough.  Ugh....

You Can Help

The working families could use your support be it non-perishable food or a donation so folks can pay their rent. Here is a LINK for contributions. They will go to the Polk County Democrats and the money will then be given to the folks in the UAW strike. We've nearly hit $5,000 just from Polk County alone.  Thank you!

The Iowa Poll

OK, I know many of you don't get or read the Des Moines Register but the article today should make you sit up a bit. In a match up against the guy who screwed up everything...that would be "45"...President Biden would lose that vote in Iowa by 11 points.  Good Old Ruby Red Iowa.  

The Iowa Poll suggests that the win for "45" would come from "Independents". The very people Democrats often fail to engage. 

But when you run on a lie and your life is a lie and you tell that lie often enough...people believe it.  Take this bit of wisdom from the Des Moines Register article:

"Justin Lindsey, a 36-year-old poll respondent from Sioux City, said he’d vote for Trump in a hypothetical rematch with Biden. He said Trump put in place policies that worked.

“The reason is: He is more of a businessman than a politician,” said Lindsey, a registered Republican who works as a skilled carpenter. “When he got into office, he actually ran the country like a business, and he’s had great success with businesses.”

See what I mean? All of what that guy said is...false. But "45" and his minions repeat the lie so often...folks like poor Justin believe it's gospel. 

Welcome to Iowa...where we once had an educational system that was the envy of the nation.

We Need You

Look, it's no time to "take a break". I know how exhausted many of you are. While we had some great victories in some areas of Polk County and Waterloo we also suffered defeats in places like Johnston and Ankeny. Where the state GOP pushed their candidates hard. We're up against a real fight in the new First Congressional District and we've got our work cut out for us in the Third and Second as well. Later today I'll be in a meeting with other leaders in the Third Congressional District where the goal should be to energize our base as well as do some active outreach to those "Independent" voters.  Lots to do!

Partly Personal

I was digging through a box in my office and came across several treasures. One of which is this
photo from April of 1983. It was taken during a March of Dimes fund raising event and the radio station I was at was the media sponsor. In the photo (L-R) are some of the folks on the air at 94.5 KKEZ: Cal Bierman, Charlie Chase, Dave Haldin and me. Cal is quite the fashion plate. Those were some heady years as the station dominated in over 20 counties.  Fun times...

I also found a tiny booklet from my congregation Adas Israel up in Mason City. It is the Adas Israel Sisterhood and Hadassah listing and projects from 1969-1970. Reading through those names brought back so many memories. Many are now on our Memorial Boards inside of the shul.

I met a man last week from El Salvador. His name is Miguel...same as mine it would seem. We were chatting about his day and I told him I was grateful he was here in the U.S.  I asked him why he made the move and he told me that a gang in El Salvador had murdered his 16 year-old son because he was dating a girl...and the gang didn't like that.  Imagine that...  Miguel told me they never found his son's body. It was a shocking conversation. 

I had the opportunity to sit down for an extended interview with Rep. Ras Smith (D-Waterloo) last week and also met his bride, Amelia.  She is a special education teacher in Waterloo.  Now that is one tough job and thank you!  What a great conversation. I'll be posting that up on the Business News Hour next week.  In case you don't know Ras is running to be the next governor of our state. We covered lots of ground in the 24 minute recording. You might want to listen when it comes out...I'll give you a heads up.

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday! 

 

 

 

 

  

Sunday Morning Coffee - 7 November 2021

"Hey, what time is it...really?" Welcome to the "Time Change" Edition of Sunday Morning Coffee; politics and opinion with, sometimes, a
dash of religion to keep it real. Confession: I have a thing for clocks and watches so you know what I've been doing this morning. Let's go:

Aaron Rogers

Here we have a multi-million dollar football legend telling us that not only did he lie but he is also spreading lies about vaccines and testing. The Packers should fire the guy...today. Pay him whatever they owe him and send his butt packing. But they won't. It's all about money and Aaron Rogers is the ticket for more. I was once a fan...no longer. He and the "My Pillow Guy" rank about the same now.  Weary...  Speaking about the "My Pillow Guy" he is hosting a 90+ hour telethon on Black Friday and filing a brief with the Supreme Court to overturn the 2020 election and reinstate "45". Wacko.... (Photo - LA Times) 

Infrastructure

It passed and now to move forward with the bigger plan. The president says he is "confident" he has the votes. I hope so but the Democrats will find some way to screw this up. It's astounding that one party marches in "lock-step" while the other is such a mess. I guess that's what you get when you have a "big tent" but to turn aside President Biden's agenda is stupid and wrong. This next piece of legislation will be a major game changer for the middle class...if only we get our people in line.  But...what chance is there when we can't even pass a voting rights bill.  By the way...those of you who do NOT support the voting rights bill...wanna tell me why?  I'm interested.

GOP Backlash

The 13 Republicans who voted, late Friday, for the $1.2 trillion infrastructure bill are facing backlash from members of their caucus. The tweets were amazing. Here's one from Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA): "..they handed over their voting cards to pass Biden's Communist takeover of America via so-called infrastructure."  Nice huh?  BTW last week she also admitted she was not vaccinated and "...ripped the vaccine Nazis".  Georgia you must be so very proud. (Photo - NBC News) 

Meanwhile Rep. Adam Kinzinger (R-IL) who voted for the bill shot back, "Infrastructure - communism is a new one. Eisenhower's interstate system should be torn up or else the commies will be able to conveniently drive! Red Dawn in real life." Good for you and it's nice to see some of the GOP squabbling among themselves for a change. 

It should be noted that this infrastructure package makes funds available to modernize highways, rebuild water lines and billions for electric vehicle charging stations...it is the largest transportation spending package in U.S. history.

John Deere Strike

The UAW workers turned aside the latest offer from the company. Some might wonder why when the offer increased pay by 10% and
boosted their retirement and left health care alone.  Why would they vote no? It's simple friends...they did it for you and your family. Look the profits being extracted from American consumers are huge and those profits fall to the top of the economic order and do little for the struggling middle-class. 

John Deere is expected to earn $5.7 to $5.9 billion in 2021. That is net income. In other words...profit. Meanwhile the Deere CEO, John May pulls in $14.7 million in compensation. Rajesh Kalathur the president of John Deere Financial and Chief Information Officer makes a cool $5.8 million. Ryan Campbell, Sr. Vice President and Chief Financial Officer rakes in $5.3 million and Mary K.W. Jones the Sr. Vice President and General Counsel hauls in $5.7 million. Four people make in excess of $31,500,000. 

Meanwhile the folks on the picket line earn $275 a week from the UAW strike fund. If they find outside work that $275 goes away. Hoping the UAW will allow workers to pick up extra income and still get strike pay.  Here in POLK COUNTY, IOWA you can help donate to the workers. Here is that link. Also, the Polk County Democrats have been taking food and other items to the UAW 450 Union Hall. Syrus Miller is the UAW 450's community service chairperson and has told me they are accepting drive up donations 24/7. You can help... Thank you! 

Partly Personal

Thank you. Back on October 5th I announced a write-in candidacy for the Windsor Heights City Council. Two of my friends, Lauren Campbell and Joseph Jones had entered the race leaving the third seat still open. Three open seats but only two people filed. After talking with my bride, Georgie, and others in the county we launched this long-shot campaign.

In the end there were 453 write-in votes and, with the help of so many of you, we came out on top with 273 of them. It was astounding and I am so very grateful. Since the win I've heard from many folks who live in Windsor Heights and those who don't...all offering their congratulations. Humbling. I can share with you that I've already been meeting with constituents and others that were elected last week. My goal is to be a positive yet progressive voice for all the people of our community.

Meanwhile it was a clean sweep for the registered Democrats running in the school board and city election. In the contested election for the West Des Moines School Board all three Democrats won their seats. Fannette Elliott, a first time candidate joined Ana Morgan also a first timer and Lila Starr the current chair of the Clive Democrats turned back some others that are not as progressive. They held an Election Night Event last Tuesday and invited several of us. Joining in the celebration was the President of the West Des Moines School Board, Lonnette "Lonnie" Dafney and  ISEA President Mike Beranek  in this photo on the far right. 

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 24 October 2021

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

Portugal 

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

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

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

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

Fiddling

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

But, But...

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

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

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

Partly Personal

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

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

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 17 October 2021

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

We Are Confused

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

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

I'm not confused...you?

The Cost

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

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

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

Taxes

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

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

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

I'm done...

Partly Personal

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

Gotta go..have a great Sunday! 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 3 October 2021

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

Biden Poll Numbers

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

Build Back Better

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

The New Book

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

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

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

We've Got So Much Money...

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

Iowa U.S. Senate Race

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

Early Voting in Iowa

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

Partly Personal

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 26 September 2021

It's the final Sunday of September...yikes, where did that month go? Welcome to politics and opinion or u Sunday Morning Coffee. Some of the stories you might have seen or, perhaps, missed but all laced with my commentary.  Why not...what else is there to do before the sun comes up.

Full Grassley

The expected news came in my Twitter Feed at 4AM last week that Sen. Charles Grassley (R-IA) was running for a sixth term in the U.S. Senate saying that there is so much more to do for Iowa. Well, Senator, you might also work on stuff like voting rights or how about condemning the attempted coup on January 6th or how about calling out the "Big Lie" that fuels you and your GOP base. How about supporting the House Bill that would allow Medicare to negotiate drug prices? Then you can get busy and support the infrastructure bill. That is if you are really serious about doing more for Iowa. The jobs that would create the help that would give to thousands and thousands of Iowans would be...helpful. But, I'm not holding my breath Senator because you and the people you support aren't really inclined to do much of anything for Iowa unless they are the "fat cats" that you once railed against. My memory is long and you are not up to the job. (Photo - Des Moines Register)

President Biden

I see that the pundits are all over the falling approval ratings of President Biden. That's what happens when you actually do something rather than sitting on your hands. The one poll question that caused me to, really, laugh out loud was the one that took the president on because he doesn't "show empathy". That is just too kooky to even comment on. Please.  If anything the president has tried and tried to get Republicans to join him in some noble efforts and that has failed. It's what happens when you believe in the fairytale that anybody in the GOP gives a damn about the vast majority of people in this nation. Better, sir, to go it alone.  You're going to have to...anyway.

Arizona

We waited for what...over six months for the results of the sham Cyber Ninja election audit? In the end it showed that President Biden won even more votes than previous counts. But we knew that would be the result. However, even in light of that, states like Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and Michigan are thinking about doing their own "independent audit" of the 2020 election results. No, the goal here has been met. That goal is to sow seeds of distrust in the election process and pass laws that discriminate against voting.  Which, again, reminds me...Senator Grassley if you really want to do something about this mess. Pass the voting rights bill in the Senate. I know...you're not really interested in that. Shame...

Meanwhile in Iowa

Get ready for a major face palm. Not only does Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) have an approval rating of over 50% she is joined by Sen. Joni Ernst (R-IA) who also has an approval rating north of 50%. What is it with you people? Is it because they look good in jeans? I don't get it. Both of these women have failed to support voters in Iowa. Both of these women have bought into the "Big Lie". Both of these women are unfit for office...it's that simple.  Maybe it's because they were living at the Iowa State Fair for days? I dunno...you?

Meanwhile in Iowa Part Two

Is that all there is? The two major Democratic Candidates for governor have been busy crisscrossing the state drumming up support. Rep. Ras Smith (D-Waterloo) and Deidre DeJear are both running a great PR campaign. They are everywhere. But, the other shoe has not yet fallen.  State Auditor Rob Sand (D-IA) has been, for months, running his own campaign but is it for re-election or for governor? Last week I was with some folks who seem to think Rob is going to take a pass and attempt to keep his current job. That he'll wait until Governor Reynolds becomes a U.S. Senator (I kid you not) and then he'll run for the, sort of, open seat.  Then there is the other "camp" who believes that Sand will run but he is wisely waiting and will swoop in to save the Democrats of a spectacular defeat in 2022. I don't know but I do know the GOP fears Rob Sand.  Ask them.

Meanwhile in Polk County

This is getting hyper-local huh? I understand there are now, roughly, 52 candidates for city council or school board who are active Democrats in this county. Fifty-two! That is an amazing job of recruiting on behalf of the party. None of this happens by accident. The Democrats have finally figured out what the GOP has known for decades. You run party faithful in non-partisan races to build your bench going forward. Want to know why the 4th Congressional District is so ruby red? They have been playing that game for years. Here in Polk County the party is actively working on behalf of each candidate. It's good to see and it's good for Iowa in the long run.

Partly Personal

Sort of a half-cup of Sunday Morning Coffee today. Still much to do and I've got to get at it.  My Bride and granddaughter are in Lanesboro, MN for "Tour de Fall" an annual bike and camping trip sponsored by Bike World of Iowa. She tells me it's pretty chilly there so not a bunch of riding but lots and lots of...shopping. Safe travels home.

The Okoboji Writers Retreat was...spectacular. Julie Gammack and her husband Richard pulled off a major event with writers and would be writers coming together to hone their craft. And it wasn't just Iowans who made up the 150+ people who attended. Folks came from all over the country and those that couldn't make the trip "Zoomed" in for their part. For nearly three days it was my pleasure to be part of this group. I learned much. Des Moines Register columnist Rekha Basu wrote a really great piece about the event and if you can get through the pay-wall here it is.  From the welcome party to the sessions on writing to the time with literary agents to the screening of "Storm Lake" to the Q&A with the Cullen Brothers from the Storm Lake Times (with Kyle Munson) to the boat ride and final dinner it was masterful. Best news is that the Okoboji Writers Retreat 2.0 is already planned for 2022.

Finally...I believe in the democratic process of voting. It's important that the people elect their representatives rather than somebody or some folks appointing a person. It matters. I live in Windsor Heights, Iowa where there are three open seats on the City Council but only two people running and I support them both. Joseph Jones and Lauren Campbell are both friends and capable, concerned folks. But nobody filed for the third open seat. So, with a great deal of thought and conversation, first with my Bride, I've decided to mount a write-in campaign for that third seat. It's a very long-shot but I think it's important for the citizens of this community to have the opportunity to vote and fill the City Council. I've got a couple of weeks to pull this off and would love it if you could support this effort.  Thank you in advance.

Off to register voters at the Latino Festival...have a great Sunday and thanks for reading! 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 19 September 2021

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

Money, Money, Money

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

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

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

Nothing, Just Nothing

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

But, It Works

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

Great At Lies

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

Polk County

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

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

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

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

Partly Personal

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

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

Chew on that....

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

Have a great Sunday and thanks for reading!