SundayMorningCoffee

Sunday Morning Coffee 11 April 2021

Welcome back! If you missed SMC over the past two Sundays it was because both were during Passover. The first two days and the last two days of the holiday week are considered highly important and so...no SMC.  By the way we're now counting the Omer, the 49 days between the final day of Passover and the giving of the Torah at Mt. Sinai.  See what you learn here?

The Lie Continues

Last night at a gathering of Republicans at Mar-a-Lago the former president was in top form as he continued to lie about the election, throw shots at Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and even said some nasty things about McConnell's wife Elaine Chow, who served as the Secretary of Transportation during 45's one-term administration.

Of course he continued to say he actually won in Georgia and in Pennsylvania and blamed everybody, other than himself, for the loss. And, from news accounts, those in attendance (high ranking senators from the GOP) ate it up.  The National Republican Party paid $100,000 for the use of the resort. That after the former, twice impeached, president sent the party a cease and desist letter banning the RNC from using his name or image on any fund raising. Masochists I guess?

Speaking of Raising Funds

It was nice that the former president paid back millions of dollars to supporters who were tricked into taking their one-time donation and turning it into a recurring donation and even increasing the amount each month.  He did it by using a "Mob Boss" tactic of intimidation which so fits his style. What an awful man.

Meanwhile

Yesterday there were 4.6 million COVID19 vaccinations given. A new record. But, and this is a big BUT, infections continue to rise.  In seven days the U.S. totaled 68,000 new cases and it is particularly alarming in Michigan and Minnesota where scores of young people are now being admitted to hospitals.  You might ask "Why?".  People say they are tired of wearing masks. They whine that social distancing is too hard. They want to be with their friends. They want to be normal.

Yeah, and Darwin will handle the rest.  Idiots.

"Guns Will Make You Safe!"

We hear that all the time. And as Americans long for some sense of "normal" we're back to killing each other at a rapid pace...which, when you think of it, is normal for the U.S. Meanwhile states like Iowa will soon allow you to carry without a license and gun sales between friends and relatives no longer need a background check. Meanwhile President Biden is trying to do something about it by issuing several executive orders. However, and you know this is true, those orders will be challenged and ignored as Americans hold on to their precious Second Amendment while trampling on the rights of others.

I'm reminded of other words written above the entrance of Auschwitz, "Work will make you free."  Another lie.

Christian Compassion

Last week Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) said at her press conference that Iowa has no room for any of the migrant children who are being detained at our southern border.  She then added it was not Iowa's problem it was, "The president's problem." How very thoughtful and Christian like.  Pastor Mike Householder is the guy behind the mega Lutheran Church of Hope where, it is reported, the Governor attends. Nice work Mike...doing a hell of a job there.  Weary....

Voting Rights

Last week television sports guy Keith Murphy wrote on his Facebook Page this factual message. "Major League Baseball will move the All Star Game and the 2021 Draft out of Georgia because of the voter bill signed into law." He simply wrote the facts as an solid reporter should do.  Oh but the comments from others....  It would seem to me that the vast majority of people who were commenting had no idea of what is going on in Georgia...and for that matter here in Iowa. "What's the big deal?" "Ya gotta have ID to drive a car." "Shortening voting by a couple of days....get real!" They have no idea...none. The real issue is that Republicans do not want you to vote and they will do anything in their power to make it more difficult. And they are using "The Big Lie" that their "Dear Leader" lost in 2020 because the vote was rigged.  No proof mind you it's just easier to deny you the right to vote. Words, "Work will make you free." just another lie.

Black Lives Matter

Well, not so much it would seem.  When demonstrators come to the Iowa State Capitol and interact with the State Police, asking for names and badge numbers, they are thrown to the ground, handcuffed and sent to jail. That is the reality here. Meanwhile the racist media and their enablers refer to the demonstration as an attack at the Iowa Capitol..."an insurrection" where police were "mobbed by protestors". While at the same time saying the folks who showed up at the U.S. Capitol on the 6th of January were peaceful, law abiding people.  

The difference is that people died as a result of that angry, out of control mob in D.C.  But, at least they were...white. So they get a pass. Face it, black people are just too scary. That's why police profile them. That is why cops follow them when the cop decides this black man shouldn't be driving in a white neighborhood. It happens all the time and it happens to my friends.  None of us are truly free until we are all free.  Anything else is simply bullshit.

Partly Personal

For two weeks I didn't write Sunday Morning Coffee and I got calls and messages asking if I was OK.  Thank you for that...and I did feel a bit guilty.  But, that is the Jew in me....or the Catholic in me (well, that's not accurate but we do share that guilt thing).

Today my Bride gave me the most beautiful birthday card. No, really...and I cried. It was that powerful

Oh, and I get my second shot this week.  So there is that.

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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 - 21 July 2019

Just when you thought it couldn't get any worse we have thousands of Americans standing up and shouting, "Send her back!" and people being arrested for saying they would put a bullet in the head of a sitting congresswoman. Brace yourself...it's gonna get worse.  It's Sunday Morning Coffee my weekly look at stories you've seen or missed...all laced with my commentary. It's what I get to do...

Depravity There Isn't Another Word

What is going on in terms of spreading fear and hate coming out of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue is simply depravity. When my friends who are members of the Republican Party can not bring themselves to condemn the sitting president there is only one reason. They agree with him and his message of hate and bigotry. 

It's a marketing message from "45" and it's getting through. Meanwhile the "duck & cover" coming from loyalists is amazing. They use "moral equivalency" saying, "Everybody says racist things." or "One part is just as bad as the other!" or completely lie and say that the GOP never said anything bad about President Obama. Forgetting all the times they stayed quiet or endorsed everything from "birtherism" to saying Obama should go back to Kenya "or wherever". 

Depravity and it's catching on.

Love It or Leave It

The "it" of course if America. This saying was first popularized during the awful days of the 1950's when then Sen. Joseph McCartney (R-WI) and his misguided effort to "...root out the communists who are hiding in plan sight". It was a time of the "Red Scare" and later when people demonstrated against the Vietnam War we were told "Love it or leave it!". (Ironic that the saying is on the "Friendship" church sign in Virginia this past week.)

I take a different view. If you love your nation you have every right to voice your opposition to those who seek to squash the progressive values of our nation. This should be a rally cry for those of us who think health care is a right. Or sho think wage inequity is morally wrong. Or that people, no matter the color of their skin or how they worship (or don't) should be treated with respect. 

Leaving America to the people who spread fear and loathing won't happen because we'll continue to speak up and use our voices to call for justice and our feet to march for equality and our hands to vote in 2020. Keep the fight going.

She Has Not Changed...

A friend of mine pointed me to a story from 2014 when then candidate Joni Ernst railed to a group of conservatives that she would work to repeal the Affordable Care Act, cut the food stamp program and tell "the church" it's their duty to care for people. If you want to read that piece from Church & State here you go. 

She is not Sen. Joni Ernst (R-IA) and her spots have not changed. She is still one of the loudest and more shrill of those calling for the government to shrink from it's responsibility whenever it comes to caring for people.

More money for the war machine and damn the people on food stamps. Never mind that the vast majority of them are elderly and children.

We have a fundamental disagreement. I believe that it is the role of government to care for those people who can not care for themselves. Government should not be handing out buckets of cash to wealthy corporations who have the ability to raise their own funds...thank you very much. 

But it has become who we are. And we see it even in local issues. For example, Facebook just secured another 20 years of property tax exemption in little Altoona, Iowa. And it was done by that city council with zero input from the citizens of that town.  Supporters hail the decision...I think the third of such agreements. Meanwhile the folks who are paying the taxes have no input. Government working for Corporate America...it is the new welfare system. 

Partly Personal

Today is the beginning of something most people know nothing about. It's called The Three Weeks. Observant Jews around the world mark this day as the start of a period of mourning for the loss, not once but twice, of the Temple in Jerusalem. During this time many Jews refrain from entering into contracts, getting married or other joyful events.  It is a time of introspection and consideration of what it is that we can do to uphold the values laid out in the Torah.

I share that with you only to underline the fact that one can be both faithful and progressive. We who are deeply involved in progressive politics often shun talking about our faith. I'm not sure that's a good strategy. It's when we turn away from the values of caring for others, be they "widows, orphans" or "the stranger in our midst" is when we see destruction...and sadness.

Sorry for the lesson...but it's on my mind this morning.

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday. 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee - 8 April 2018

That week flew by! Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee my weekly look at some of the political news you may have heard and some you might have missed all laced with my commentary. Why? Because this is what I do early on Sunday Morning...I know, right? So much to visit about so let's get right into it. Grab your cup and let's go!

It's A Mess - But Some Are Speaking Out

For those of us who enjoy politics what is happening with this administration is not only shocking but it is also putting our nation at risk. When policy is dictated by tweets, trade wars threatened and there is no coherent policy on anything. You would think that even Republicans in congress would say they have had enough. For some reason so many have forgot the basics of civics. There are THREE equal but separate branches of government. When is the legislative branch going to start governing?  Well, hold on, that may be happening even if it's only with those who have seen the writing on the wall and opted out of running in 2018. Retiring GOP lawmakers are taking "45" on and speaking out. Meanwhile way too many more are proving themselves cowards by kowtowing to a madman. We're talking about you Rep. David Young (R-IA) and Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Sen. Joni Ernst (R-IA). Your silence in the face of dysfunction and your inability to understand your culpability is astounding. Read what some retiring GOP lawmakers are saying in this piece from The Hill.

Troops to the Border!

Quick! We must push back the army of brown women and children who are invading our beloved "White Nation" before, gulp...we white folk find ourselves in the...yikes...minority! There is more truth in that statement than you think. White people are scared to death. Why else would so many states start passing laws that demand local law enforcement "play nice" with the "jack-booted thugs" that make up the Immigration and Customs Enforcement or ICE? It is fear and it is effective and it will come back to haunt those in power today. Mix it all together and there is not another reasonable answer: "We must, at all costs, preserve and protect our White/Christian Nation because it was ordained that way!" They really do think that you know.

Trade War

Speaking of troops and war I suspect you realize you are the "cannon fodder" for the looming trade war about to unfold. All of this is nonsense and in the end it will not hurt the people making the rules it will hurt you the American Consumer and the further down on the economic ladder you are...the worse it will get.  Wait until our farming community, those who supported "45" in great numbers, get smacked with tons of rotting soybeans that were to be shipped to China. When hog farmers can't pay the bills because U.S. pork is on the decline in Asia. And then...those of you who shop for stuff at discount stores that are dependent on goods made in China start to see everything from toys to electronics go up in price...it's going to be a bleak Christmas. If you can afford stuff made in Korea or Europe you can afford a trade war. But those of you on limited income who have counted on inexpensive products made in China. Well...thank your "great leader". It's all crazy. (Cartoon - Tim Lloyd)

Drain the Swamp!

You've got to hand it to "45" he knows how to take a slogan and turn it into gold. During the 2016 campaign we heard that our "great leader" would "Drain the swamp!". He was going to put people into cabinet positions that were just like you. People who understood the trials and difficulty of balancing work/life in a nation that has seen no substantial increase in pay since the 1970's. How did that work out for you?  Here is just one example. EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt has spent nearly $3 million on his 24/7 security detail. According to the Washington Post there are 18 people assigned to protect Pruitt from...you...like at basketball games or picnics. That's just the tip of the ooze coming from the current swamp. From dining tables (Carson) to sound proof phone booths (Pruitt) it's a mess.  How you like it...now?  Oh, and congress?  Crickets.

115 Deaths a Day

That's right, this year nearly 42,000 Americans will die due to addiction and misuse of opioids.  That is five times higher than in 1999. And what is astounding is that Significant increases in drug overdose death rates from 2015 to 2016 were seen in the Northeast, Midwest and South Census Regions. States with statistically significant increases in drug overdose death rates included Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. There is evidence that Marijuana may be one way to cut down on the epidemic. But, our state and federal government would rather have people die from drug overdose than deal with a way to help patients manage and control their pain. Iowa...I'm talking about you.

Papers, Show Me Your Papers!

You do know that our upcoming census will be a mess...right? The nutty people in charge of this country have decided to ask if you are a U.S. Citizen when the next census comes around. It's crazy but it is so brilliant. How do you better marginalize states that have large numbers of undocumented people? Don't count them. That then means less in federal aid, less in economic growth, less in infrastructure spending.  There is more than one way to take down America...just don't count the people. Brilliant...truly.

Polk County Iowa - Activist Training

It's about time. The largest number of registered Democrats in Iowa are in Polk County yet we have seen our numbers continue to erode. Sure there are more and more neighborhood groups and the number of friendly organizations like Progress Iowa, Citizens for Community Improvement and Indivisible are sprouting up all over. However working together makes us all stronger. That's why it's exciting to see the program Activist to Organizer being adopted by the Polk County Democrats. For those of you familiar with Camp Wellstone it is a national training organization that teaches people the art of organizing. Progressives have long held up this education as being responsible for getting more and more people elected to public office. But, it's expensive.

 

This week the Polk County Democrats launched a one-day program based on the ideas of Wellstone but with an Iowa flavor. Yesterday John Hedgecoth met with leadership here and announced the opening of the project.

Partly Personal

There is a bunch of stuff going on but let me give you the "CliffsNotes" version about some exciting changes:

Today at 2PM the Iowa Asian/Latino Coalition will hold an event which will feature several speakers including Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA), Rob Sand, Democratic Candidate for State Auditor and Josh Mandelbaum, Des Moines City Council. Here is the Facebook Notice should you want more information.  See you there.

Many of you know that for the past five years I've hosted Insight on Business - The News Hour where we have broadcast from various radio stations associated with the Des Moines Radio Group. That adventure has allowed me to build an amazing following of our daily podcast which you can find on iTunes, Stitcher, TuneIn Radio or Podbean. In fact, the audience numbers from our podcasts and our Radio Blog far outnumber the listeners associated with the our most recent station KPSZ - AM940 during our broadcast hour. Add to that fact that AM-940 is a religious station and since being placed there (And paying for the hour each day. That's right, I never worked for them...I paid them for the opportunity to broadcast the business news.) I've had serious doubts about the over all "fit" of a business news broadcast on religious radio. Not to say folks that are Christian are not interested in the business news but...it limited our reach. So we ended our relationship last week and our final broadcast there was on Friday.  I am grateful for all the friends and "family" that we've made during those five years with the Des Moines Radio Group...they have been super to work with.

This week we'll launch our daily business news podcast version of The Business News Hour. While we have, for years, put up our interview segments we never podcast the news and our news opinion. Tomorrow all of that changes.  We'll still offer up the daily business news, commentary, long form interviews and a look at the markets but it's all digital.  Exciting!

Also, starting today at 2PM, for those of you in Eastern Iowa we launch The Business News Hour - Week in Review on the 50,000 watt "blowtorch" News/Talk 1540 KXEL. It's an opportunity to stay with broadcast radio but on a station that is a much better match for our content. The program will feature important business news stories of the past week, our business interviews and a look at what happened on Wall Street, why and a peek at the economic news coming up next week. And, unlike our former radio facility News/Talk 1540 KXEL streams their content so, no matter where in the world you live...you can listen in. A big thank you to Jeff Stein the news director and program director for the station. Over the years we've developed a great friendship. 

Uhm...this got a little longer than CliffsNotes huh?

So..thanks for reading, for being part of the former News Hour and it's on to more exciting opportunities. 

Have a great Sunday!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

    

Sunday Morning Coffee the Fools Edition - 1 April 2018

Good morning and welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee - The Fools Edition. Sure I could have called it The Bunny Edition or the Passover Edition or the Easter Edition...but me thinks "fools" says is best. Here are some stories that you might have seen, or missed, all laced with my commentary.  It's what I do on Sunday Morning...let's go already!

April Fools & Easter

I've come to the conclusion that April Fools Day just isn't as much fun when it is tied to Easter Sunday. The radio disc-jockeys have the day off...so nothing there. There is that church thing that gets in the way of pranks. (Guess you could put real wine in the communion glasses at the Methodist Church...that would cause a riot.) Or during Passover you could leave out a bread wrapper and freak us out.  But...the fun is dissipated just a bit.  Next year...right?

Shot In The Back...

There is a passage in the Passover Haggadah (book we read during the Seder) that quotes Pharaoh as saying of the Jews, "Behold, the people, the Children of Israel, are more numerous and stronger than we. Come, let us outsmart it lest it become numerous and it may be that if a war will occur, it too may join our enemies and wage war against us..." I thought about this on Friday evening and again last night during the Seder and reflected on the fear so many white people have when it comes to people of color especially those of African decent. Our nation has a sickness that can be traced back to the "Original Sin of America". The sin that said it's OK to trade in human life and enslave people to do the bidding of the majority race. And, ironically, they pointed to the Bible for support of the practice. Today, just like Pharaoh many fear.

We fear and so we build border walls. We fear and we remove voting rights. We fear and we deny housing. We fear and we deny equal pay. We fear and we...kill. 

I was not in Sacramento. I was not in the back yard of Stephon Clark's grandmothers home where officers shot and killed a man holding a cell phone. However when we fear we kill. It happened in Ferguson, in Atlanta, in New York, in Detroit, in Chicago...

America is coming face to face with the reality that soon, very soon, the white people in this nation will become a minority. That scares the shit out of many. So America "doubles down" on "dealing harshly" with those people. Deport them, marginalize them, refuse entry into the country and...kill them.

Yeah...that. (Cartoon - Tim Lloyd)

The White Man's Pain

What is it that causes the vast majority of mass killings in this nation to be committed by white men? It's a serious question. Perhaps a glimpse of the rational comes from a Facebook post that I read the other day...from a white man. It said, in part, "I am a white man and I am being marginalized and kicked to the side of the curb. My culture and my heritage are constantly under attack. Is it any wonder why we retaliate?" Let that sink in for a bit.

Meanwhile last night in Sacramento a sheriffs car sped up and hit a protester. The cruiser not stop after the 61 year old woman was hit. The "official report" says the police vehicles were being kicked at "leaving dents and possible broken glass" and so...in fear a woman was hit. The video that has been posted shows none of the kicking or destruction of the police vehicles at the scene. Here is the video from the Washington Post.

We Are All Fools

I am starting to wonder when America is going to get it that we are all being played for suckers. We are being played by Democrats as well as Republicans. You see...it is no longer a political party line it is the powerful vs. the powerless. And both parties seem to be hoping they can dupe you into remaining a fool. The Republicans just don't give a damn. Here is Iowa the GOP House and Senate and the Governor pass and sign into laws that have the express purpose of keeping the people under foot. They deny better pay and roll back hourly rates to the slave wage of $7.25 and hour. They suppress the vote by fostering the myth that voter fraud is real. They take away the workers rights to do collective bargaining for livable wages and working conditions.  And, the Democrats are spineless in their opposition. Sure, they will tell you that because of the makeup of the Iowa Legislature they are unable to move their agenda. So they talk and they raise money and they tell us, "We must take back the legislature and the governors office and then everything will be fine." Rubbish.

You want to really make a difference? Strike. Be done with this. The teachers union may be the place to start. We whine about poor pay, lousing working conditions, disparate treatment of students...and do nothing. What would happen if the ISEA had guts and said, "We're done playing nice we're walking out." I mentioned that to Tammy Wawro several months ago and she said, "We can't do that it is against the law..." Precisely. Let me suggest to you there are not enough jail cells in Iowa to hold the strikers. If West "By God" Virginia...a DEEP RED state can go on strike. If Oklahoma teachers can strike, in another deep red state, what the hell is the matter with Iowa?  This movement is spreading to Kentucky, Arizona and Wisconsin. 

And, we don't stop with teachers. Maybe a general strike is the answer to the horror if inaction by the major political parties... April Fools any one?

Bold Progressive Action

We are going to lose the Third Congressional District and Rep. David Young (R-IA) will be re-elected to another two years. Write that down someplace. Unless...unless we stop playing "the game" and offer up bold progressive answers to voters. I'm not talking about the namby pamby policies of the past but some real progressive responses by the candidates left in contention. Here is what I want: I want you to stir the passions of those who are being hurt by this congress. Stop playing nice and go after David Young with a full throat response to the policies that are rejecting basic human rights and dignity. Demand universal health care for our citizens. Demand a living wage. Demand the end of voter suppression. Demand an end to "business as usual" give us a reason to support you. My candidate is out. Theresa Greenfield, in my mind, had the best chance of beating back the GOP in November but she is out. Now I, and thousands of others, have to make a choice in June. From Adams County to Polk County from Dallas County to Pottawatomie County you better ramp it up kids...we're waiting.

The American Iftar Dinner

Once upon a time there was a dinner at the White House that celebrated the Iftar. During Ramadan (this year from the evening of May 15 ending on the evening of June 14) followers of Islam fast during the day and then eat at sundown. It is called the Iftar. This goes on for the entire month. President Clinton, in 1996, began holding an Iftar and that was also the policy of President George W. Bush and President Barack Obama. However "45" has decided that holding an Iftar would not set well with his base and abandoned the practice. Fear is a great motivator.  So, leave it up to two Des Moines area high school students to create The American Ifrar Dinner. They launched the idea a week ago and already they have ten universities across the nation who are following their effort. Here in Des Moines the event will take place in the Hall of Laureates at the World Food Prize headquarters. I recently had J.J. Kapur a Sikh and Fez Kafar a Muslim join me in studio for this brief radio interview. (Go ahead, click on the link to hear the conversation). The short of it is...people from all backgrounds, all faiths coming together for a meal the celebrate and to learn. Yeah...the future is in the hands of the youth and it's looking brighter.  

Partly Personal

It's April...and it is Passover. Our family celebrated both Shabbat and Passover on Friday night. Our daughter did an amazing job for dinner. Everything was perfect and the company was grand and the table was festive. Passover is my favorite of the Jewish Holidays. It holds the promise of spring and new life.

Saturday night we traveled to Mason City to Adas Israel the little congregation that I've served for thirty years. It is one of only ten still active in Iowa. A couple of dozen Jews and non-Jews joined us for a four hour trip through the Exodus. I got to bed about 2am and that is why Sunday Morning Coffee is late. One of the questions that came up at our home and in Mason City was, "I understand all of the symbols on the Seder Plate but what does the roasted egg mean?"

It's a good question. The simple answer is that the beitzah (egg) reminds us of the temple sacrifice but a deeper meaning is about the egg and the Jew. The egg is created in the chicken and is then laid. When tended to correctly and cared for the egg creates a baby chicken that, in time, emerges from the egg and begins its life cycle. The same can be said for the Jew. When we were released from bondage in Egypt we were not yet whole. We had to wait seven complete weeks to come to the foot of Mt.Sinai where we were given the 613 Commandments that gave our faith...life. There you go...

Have a wonderful Easter and Passover and thank you for reading!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee - 10 December 2017

This week starts with a look at "Roypublicans" (a term coined by our contributor Tim Lloyd) who now are in control of the GOP. If that gives you pause...it should. Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee my weekly piece on some of the political things you've seen and some you may have missed. All laced with my commentary..sometimes fun sometimes...not so much. Sit a spell, grab a cup and let's go!

"Roypublicans" 

What will happen later this week is that Roy Moore will be elected to the United States Senate and it seems that the Molester in Chief "45" is super excited to have another groper join him in Washington. What I can not understand is how my conservative Christian friends have decided to line up with these people. Or maybe it's not so hard to figure out. Back in September at a Florence, Alabama rally Moore outlined all the wrongs that he sees in Washington. What he called "spiritual wickedness in high places." He warned of "the awful calamity of abortion and sodomy and perverse behavior and murders and shootings and road rage" as "a punishment inflicted upon us for our presumptuous sins."

In response to a question from one of the only African Americans in the audience — who asked when Moore thought America was last "great" -- Moore acknowledged the nation's history of racial divisions, but said: "I think it was great at the time when families were united — even though we had slavery — they cared for one another.... Our families were strong, our country had a direction."

 

At the same event he referred to Native Americans and Asian Americans as "reds and yellows" and earlier this year suggested that the September 11 terrorist attacks were "divine punishment".

 

This is what we are dealing with. And on Tuesday he will be elected to the United States Senate proving, once again, that "Roypublicans" can say and do anything. Congratulations America. (Cartoon - Tim Lloyd)

 

Taxes, Politics and Churches

 

Back in 1954 the United States adopted the Johnson Amendment to the tax code. It was named such for the author Lyndon Johnson who would go on to become President Johnson. The Johnson Amendment prohibits nonprofit groups who maintain tax exempt status, including churches and charities, from participating in politics. Guess what...language now being debated in the Roypublican Tax Bill in congress removes that language allowing your church, synagogue or mosque the ability to not only preach politics but also donate to candidates who think just like them...and get to deduct the expense. See what you learn here?

 

Al Franken

 

Last week, following the resignation speech by Sen. Al Franken (D-MN), I was approached by three people who said they were switching from the Democratic Party to become registered Independents. WHAT? Here is what they said, "While democrats go after the moral high ground we deny people the right to due process and we look like wimps." To say I was shocked would be an understatement however the three people who said this to me were all women. Let that sink in for a moment. Meanwhile an executive told me that he fears there will be a backlash against women in general which could have a chilling impact on some careers. "I fear that some employers will pass over some very talented young women because they do not want to take a risk that their company could be subject to an accusation; true or not."

 

I don't support either comment however it is stunning that people are coming forward and voicing these thoughts. And, my circle is not that large.

 

I need to focus on shorter stories...sorry!

 

Trump = King = Reynolds = "Doing Just Fine"

 

As long as we're in the weeds we might as well look at the links between some familiar names in Iowa. While the Iowa Democrats are calling on Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) to remove Congressman Steve King (R-IA) from her campaign committee because he is such a hateful individual the Republicans seem to rally around such folks. Today the Des Moines Register released a new Iowa Poll that measured some 800 Iowa voters. Fifty-one percent of them approve of the job Gov. Reynolds is doing. I'm not making this up. Reynolds who sits on the right hand of "45" who turns to King for political decisions gets a majority of voters thinking she is doing "just fine".

 

The Iowa Poll

 

Meanwhile more people tend to have a positive view of candidate Fred Hubbell (27%) than others in the field but Iowans don't know much about any of them. The vast majority of voters (57% to 70%) say they don't know enough about the candidates to form an opinion. The favorable numbers among the leading Democrats are: Fred Hubbell (27%). Dr. Andy McGuire (26%), Sen. Nate Boulton (21%), John Norris (18%) and Cathy Glasson (18%). What is interesting is that the negative number for Fred Hubbell stands at 16% several points higher than the others.  Here is a screen snap from the poll. If you click on it it will enlarge.  If you can get through the pay-wall here is a link to the story by The Des Moines Register. If you want a "hoot" check out the comments from some of the people polled. OMG!

 

 

Taxes and Business

 

Some of you know that I do the only daily (M-F) hour-long radio broadcast about business in the Midwest.  (Here is a link to our Radio Blog Interviews) I try, very hard, to steer clear of politics as there is enough "toxic talk radio" going on out there. However the lines between politics and business are getting more fuzzy by the day. Case in point. Business groups in Iowa are lining up to make sure the corporate tax rate is reduced. Last week the Greater Des Moines Partnership and the Iowa Chamber Alliance both released their "wish lists" for the 2018 Iowa Legislature which will convene on 8 January. Each has listed "Tax Reform" as their number one goal. What that really means is a cut in corporate taxes. They site the fact that Iowa has the highest corporate tax rate in the nation at 12% yet Iowa does allow for deductability of federal taxes paid. The pro-business groups say that this is like putting a big sign on Iowa that says, "Don't come here because we'll tax the hell out of you!"  Which...is really not true. Not only are federal taxes deducted for corporations so too is the fact that corporations only pay taxes on goods sold in Iowa. Couple that with the fact that by the time you factor in other deductions the 12% shrinks greatly. Oh and one other thing the business groups won't tell you. Between 2009 and 2016 Iowa awarded over $375 million in research and development tax credits and many of the companies that received those credits pay zero in Iowa taxes.

 

One other thing the business groups want...they want to continue awarding already successful companies more tax forgiveness in the effort to stimulate economic growth.

 

Bottom line: While Iowa wishes to lead the nation in corporate welfare and our state budget is in a mess you poor chumps will pay more and more services will be cut. Watch and see my friends.  They did that to you in 2012 with the famous Terry Branstad Tax Shift on commercial property and it's coming to you again in 2018.

 

Partly Personal

 

Sorry this is late getting out to you...I was up way too late last night. If you are celebrating Chanukah starts on Tuesday evening with the lighting of the first of eight candles. My brother Yoni has asked me to be with him at Simpson College that evening to meet with and visit with some of the Jewish students to chat a bit about Chanukah. I'm looking forward to that adventure.  While Steve King (R-IA) feels that assimilation is the best thing for America I can share with you it is the worst thing for Jews.  That is exactly what the holiday of Chanukah is all about...resisting assimilation. Maybe the good congressman should be reminded about that...or maybe it won't make any sense to him.

 

Thanks for reading have a wonderful Chanukah, Hanukah, Hanuka...or however you wish to spell it!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Republicans 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee - 25 December 2016

No I didn't take the day off. Happy Chanukah, Merry Christmas and "Habari gani?" to those of you who will mark Kwanzaa tomorrow. The wrapping paper is picked up and we're just getting started with Sunday Morning Coffee...could not let you down!

Blue Christmas

For those of us who were hoping for a Blue Christmas this year...our hopes were dashed at the polling places in November. Here is Iowa we stuck to the same old tired program of nominating the "safe experienced candidate" and got swamped. Not even close. What's more Democrats lost the Iowa Senate. We do find comfort in the fact that Hillary received three million more votes then Donald Trump but that does not soothe the sting of a very Red Christmas. Now the rebuilding gets underway.

Israel

President Obama this past week dealt a blow to peace in Israel as the United States allowed a resolution to be passed in the United Nations Security Council. The president has never really understood Israel nor has he liked its leader Benjamin "Bibi" Netanyahu. Last week the UN Security Council passed a resolution that outlawed all Israeli housing built on the West Bank, including East Jerusalem. Since the Six Day War in 1967, this territory was considered to be a subject for negotiation in eventual Israeli-Palestinian peace talks. Now the UN Security Council has weighed in saying in effect that all the West Bank belongs to the Palestinians for their future state. The result will be that Israel will dig in even harder, ignore the resolution and any chance of peace talks are, for some time...gone. It was an epic failure of leadership from not only Mr. Netanyahu but also Mr. Obama.  Meanwhile "Bibi" says he is anxious to start working with President Elect Trump.

Organize and Resist

Last week the Polk County Democrats sent out a survey asking a bunch of questions regarding involvement in party efforts. It's the first such survey I remember and reports from Executive Director Tamyra Harrison indicate lots of people have already responded. This could be a very good starting point should the party be able to draw in new people who will help organize and resist what is sure to come now that the GOP controls both the legislature and the governors office. This "call to arms" seems to be happening in other counties as well. We'll see how it shakes out.

BTW - If you are in a county outside of Polk let me know how things are going with your efforts to organize and resist. If nothing else this should be interesting!

The War on Christmas

Merry Christmas...there I said it. Starting tomorrow we'll not have to hear these silly stories about this imagined war. That being said our cartoonist Tim Lloyd not only sent us this week's cartoon but also a great letter from "The Front". If you would like to hear what he wrote...yes, I had to give "voice" to his work...you can click to listen.

Tim Lloyd Letters from the Front War on Christmas

Partly Personal

Told you this was going to be short today. The vodka (Russian) was way too good last night.

Had to chuckle last night as we went to our First Night of Chanukah celebration. Take a look at the front doors. Wonder where the Jew lives? See, we can all get along.

Have a wonderful Holiday and we'll check back in next week.  

 

 

 

Politics, Gossip, Religion & More - SMC 08/19/12

Welcome back to Sunday Morning Coffee my "coffee break" from the world of business into the steamy world of politics, religion, sex and gossip.  You know, all the stuff that really motivates you.  Each story is laced with my opinion and because there is no hiding here my name is Michael P. Libbie.  You can connect here with a comment or head over to my personal Twitter Stream @MichaelLibbie or my personal Facebook Page.  Ready?  Let's grab a cup!

The Iowa GOP United Campaign

Governor Terry Branstad was at the top of his game this week at the Iowa State Fair as he laid out the "Iowa Republican Party Unified Campaign for 2012".  Which, in reality, was a simple re-hash of the fear and loathing platform from the Iowa GOP. (Fear anything that does not resemble old, worn out ideas and loath any and all government)  You know the one that promises to stand in the way of anything that might move our state forward but embraces anything that might move us, with great swiftness, to the good old days of 1952.  In the end it was a big build up to an even that left us with little details. Gosh, sounds like the national campaign.

Told You...

Last week after Governor Mitt Romney announced Rep. Paul Ryan (R-WI) had been chosen as his running mate I said, "It is a gift. Yummy".  And it is turning out to be just that.  Several times Rep. Ryan has fed his "Bat-Crap-Crazy" base the line that he refused to accept any federal stimulus money.  Oops...  That's ain't quite the truth.  Seems that he lobbied for millions of economic stimulus dollars...millions for...ready?   Jobs.  When confronted with the letters he sent to both the Labor and Energy departments he said, "They should have been handled differently..."  Don't you LOVE politics?

What Does This Mean?

I visited with my old friend Attorney General Tom Miller (D-IA) last week and asked him about his office representing Iowa Secretary of State Matt Schultz (R-IA) who is seeking to purge voter rolls of more than 3,582 people he believes are not elegible to vote.  The ACLU filed suit last week to halt Mr. Schultz and the AG's office will represent their buddy from the Lucas State Office Building. "He is doing the right thing." AG Miller said to me. "We need to insure proper voting. However these actions may not prevent all of these people from voting in November.  The timeline is just too short."  Ineligible voters could be challenged when voting in person.  That is why, in November, I will show up at the ballot dressed as "Juan the Pool Boy".  Just for...fun.  We'll see how Windsor Heights deals with that. wink. (OK, I can see the rage coming now...)

Speaking of the Iowa ACLU...

They, and director Ben Stone, have been taking quite a beating from my Christian Friends for asking questions regarding the offer by the Lutheran Church of Hope to house public school in their education wing until some construction work at the Hillside Elementary School is finished.  Many were all lathered up by the fact that the ACLU would be concerned with regard to having kids face religious intrusion.  I wonder if these same people would be prompted to speak out against a school using a local Jewish or Muslim congregational building?  Wanna take...bets?

Fighting Over...Food

Last week I was invited to take part in an Agricultural Town Hall Meeting featuring my friends Max Armstrong and US Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack (D-IA). The event was held in the Media Center located in the Cattle Barn at the Iowa State Fair. I arrived about ninety minutes early (I love the fair!), checked in and ambled over to Stockman's for a beer and conversation.  When asked, by my friends many who depend on farming/food & agri-business for their daily bread (pun intended), what brought me out (again) I said I was waiting to listen to Sec. Vilsack talk about the Farm Bill and the drought I got: "What's that lying Democrat going to say?"  "Damn USDA only going to throw more of my tax dollars away."  "Vilsack doesn't know crap about farming!" You get the idea... BTW the hour-long progam carried live on RFD-TV was informative and full of facts.  Something many of my friends outside might want to pay attention to but they are married to Bat-Crap-Crazy Media. Weary kids...weary. (Wish I could find the video/replay of the entire event. It would be worth it to see.)

This Is Disturbing

This morning the Des Moines Register has a front page story about Supreme Court Justice David Wiggins and his "low-key response" regarding the upcoming retention vote.  What is disturbing is that Justice Wiggins does not seem to be able to battle against the Bat-Crap-Crazy Iowa Republican Party or it's equally nutty Family Leader with Bob Vander Plaats leading the pack to oust him from the bench.  Last week the Adams for Senate Campaign reached out to Justice Wiggins with the intent on inviting him to speak (not donate) at a scheduled event this fall.  We were told he has to decline because Iowa Judicial Rules keep him from attending political events.  Something here is not kosher.  When you have the Iowa GOP and private groups pouring money into a campaign to oust Justice Wiggins and his friends can't help?  We'll let you know as we find out more. 

Speaking of Desmund Adams

Last week he attended a fund raiser for Susan Judkins who is running for the Iowa House against Rep. Chris Hagenow (R-Windsor Heights).  The guest at the downtown event was none other than US Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack. Pretty high power deal huh?  I understand that Desmund Adams was given the opportunity to speak about his campaign as well.  I'm telling you this Adams/Judkins Team is powerful and smart.  If you live in Cive, Waukee, West Des Moines or Windsor Heights I'd ask that you click through to their websites to learn more and perhaps even contribute time, money or space for a yard sign.  Thanks!

Why Iowa Needs Repair?

Friday night at the Iowa State Fair country singer and hate baiting know-nothing Hank Williams Jr. said (during his grandstand concert) "We've got a Muslim president who hates farming, hates the military, hates the U.S. and we hate him!"  The crowd of 8,500 cheered.  Welcome to Iowa where we seem to lead the nation in stupid.  But then again a poll of the Iowa GOP Caucus Voters last year told us that 47% believed President Obama was born outside of the United States. Yep...we have a problem.

Partly Personal

Today marks the final day of the Iowa State Fair (who said in a statement, "The views and opinions of Hank Williams Jr. or any artist performing at the Fair, do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Iowa State Fair." key word: "necessarily") and I'm going back.  (My bride will stay home with "the kids"...)  I will avoid walking anywhere near the grandstand because stupid might be catching. Anyway this evening Here Come the Mummies close out the Anderson-Erickson (free) Stage and it will be a great time. What?  You don't know HCTM?  Here is a quick video from last year...what a crowd. That being said I thought I'd share this with you.  It's a look at some of my state fair favorites and yes...beer and country music is in the mix.  Love throwing you a curve!

 

One other thing:  The brand new 95,000 sq. ft. Urbandale Hy-Vee opened last week to the delight of our family.  (The drought has ended!)  It took Mom about three minutes to share her marketing advice with anybody who would listen.  And...if you know Mom...you must listen.  Here she is visiting with one of the produce managers about the correct way to display her favorite veggies. (Go ahead and click on the photo to enlarge.) Told ya...

Have a great Sunday!

Politics, Sex, Religion, Gossip, SMC 08/12/12

Each Sunday I take a break and look at the world of politics, religion, news, gossip and add a little commentary.  And, because there is no hiding here, my name is Michael P. Libbie.  If you want to comment here, feel free. And/Or you can come by my personal Twitter Account @MichaelLibbie or my personal Facebook Page is right here.  See how simple that is?  OK kids...grab a cup of Sunday Morning Coffee but...caution:  It's HOT!

Department of Criminal Investigation and Iowa Voter Fraud

I see where Iowa Secretary of State Matt Schultz has requested (and received) the services of a full time detective from the Iowa Department of Criminal Investigation (DCI) to "investigate serious issues of voter fraud" and the 2,000 names (out of 2.1 million registered voters) Matt has turned up that seem "suspicious".  This crusade has been at the center point of his struggling first term and something the 99 county elected voter officials (both Republican and Democrat) remain puzzled over. You see, they say there is no such beast but that doesn't deter Matt from proving, at a cost of over $140,000 to try to prove there...is. My mother is 92.  She does not have a valid drivers license (Thank G-d!) from Iowa...nor any state. She is to spend how much time in some government office trying to prove who she is?  This is, at its core, voter suppression and a silly waste of state funds. If you would like more about Herr Schultz and his efforts to suppress the vote and what the ACLU and others are doing here's a taste from my friends at The Bleeding Heartland.

Gov. Branstad Cutting Us to Prosperity

Last week I was in a room listening to House Member and Assistant Majority Leader Linda Upmeyer (R-Garner) extol the virtues of the Iowa GOP, their Dear Leader Governor Terry Branstad and his quest to "cut the fat from the state budget".  She, proudly, exclaimed (nearly breathless by the way) that Gov. Branstad had already cut $150,000 from the state budget.  That, many in the room thought, was very impressive.  I was in the back of the room and was not sure I heard the number correctly so I asked her to repeat it.  She said, "Well, it's $50,000 up to $150,000 those figures are what I've seen most recently." My response, "That is an impressive number given the 6.3 billion dollar state budget."  Weary kids...weary.

Do Not Ask News Questions!

My friend, and lobbyist, Will Rogers, took me to task on Facebook for a "trip up question" for asking Rep. Upmeyer a news question. (I do understand why Will had to do that...it's just politics.)  You see in the Thursday morning edition of the Des Moines Register there was this top-of-fold story which read, "Iowa Ranks Last in Women's Firms".  Last, dead last.  I asked Rep. Upmeyer about her reaction to the story and what her caucus intends to do to correct the shameful issue. She said, "Well, we need to talk about this more and encourage more women to enter business."  That pretty much is the "party line" and about the same thing that the new head of the Iowa Department of Economic Development, Debi Durham stated in the article.  So it was not surprising that Rep. Upmeyer doesn't realize there is a solid answer that is really quite simple. Oh...wanna know?

 

Mind you, I'd have never asked the question if it was not top news of the day and if I didn't know there was a simple answer to the question.  One other tid-bit, the man in the video is Desmund Adams who is running for the Iowa State Senate District 22 (Clive, Waukee, West Des Moines and Windsor Heights) and has been talking about this issue and offering a solution since November of 2011.  But, hey...let's not let the facts get in the way of solid leadership.  Why...change?  One more small detail. You want to read how uninformed many Iowa Voters are and how far some will go to poo-poo the research?  Read the comments following the story and you will see that denial is not only a river in Egypt. Oh...my! Weary....very.

Paul Ryan - A GREAT Choice

Yesterday Gov. Mitt Romney selected Rep. Paul Ryan (R-WI) as his running mate.  This is the most fantastic thing that could have happened.  The Paul Ryan Budget will be great fodder and maybe now we'll now have a serious discussion of the middle-class plight and how the GOP intends to further shred your paycheck while giving huge tax breaks to the rich.  Yummy and thank you Governor!  Shall we start...here:  "Five Things You Need to Know About Paul Ryan".  You are welcome.

Speaking of The Middle Class

It's eroding and those of you who make less than $250,000 a year and intend on voting for Gov. Romney and his billionare brothers amaze me.  Are you hoping that you'll gather some crumbs from the platter?  What's the deal?  You have seen your income shrink, your costs for everything from food to education continue to rise? Crumbs? Or is it that you really do dislike President Obama because is isn't "one of us"?  Like Gov. Romney...is?  But, hey let's take a test.  OK?  Follow this link to a tax calculator and do your own math.  Go on...have at it.  I know you won't and you would much rather watch TV so...here you go:

 

The truth is a terrible thing to...waste. 

Speaking of President Obama

On Friday Morning I was sitting with Rep. Debbie Wassermann-Schultz (D-FL and Chair of the DNC) in a private meeting here in Des Moines.  Part of the discussion centered on the false information my GOP friends continue to share with Jews hoping to crack and splinter votes away from President Obama.  I guess I'm out of the loop because even though my friends know of my faith and strong support of Israel they don't seem to bother me with their "many facts" that President Obama is the enemy of Israel.  But, hey...maybe it's because I'm...informed and wouldn't take their charges...seriously?  I dunno...you?   But, go ahead...give it a shot.  Tell me why Jews should vote for Gov. Romney and not President Obama.  Go ahead...lemme have it.  I'm waiting.

Thanks to Sue Dvorsky (Iowa Chair of the Democrat Party) and Debbie for giving the Adams for Senate team a..."Thumbs Up".  You just never know where that wristband will show up and on...whom.

"Unequal Protection" - The 2012 Iowa Republican Motto

Here we go again.  Last week it was A.J Spiker the chairman of the Iowa Republican Party telling us that he and his party would do all they could to force Iowa Supreme Court Justice David Wiggins from the bench.  Why? Uhm...because the Justice (and six others) upheld the Iowa Constitution. You see friends, the Constitution is only THE Constitution only when these "bat crap crazies" say it is.  Equal protection doesn't really mean...equal protection.  Equal protection is only for individuals who marry in a church and promise to have children.  If you marry outside of the church and can't have children...sorry.  You're screwed. Now comes Bob Vander Plaats and his "Gang of Three", Republican National Committeewoman-elect Tamara Scott, also a co-chair. The senior adviser is former Rep. Steve King (R-IA5) chief of staff Chuck Laudner; the executive director will be Greg Baker, former Iowa College Republican chairman.  Do not let this...happen.

I-235 Speed Cameras & The Village of Windsor Heights

This past week the Iowa DOT said The Village could not move forward with the installing speed cameras on the one-mile stretch of I-235 that runs through our little town.  No doubt the honor of putting in speed cameras on the west-bound lanes will now go to the City of Des Moines.  But, no matter I have a superior solution. We shall simply alter the speed limit from 60 to 25 MPH the same as it is in the rest of the Village.  That way we'll get busy from both the east-bound and west-bound lanes. It will give our officers something extra to do and give visitors more time to look around.

Partly Personal

It's State Fair Time here in Iowa!  Yippie!!!  This past Friday afternoon we made the rounds with four of our six grandchildren.  We did all sorts of Commie Things like go the the Beef Quarters, visit the Cattle Barn, do The Avenue of Breeds, check out the Horse Barn, walk the Midway (Kids love it....) and greet loads and loads of friends among them the Mayor of the Village of Windsor Heights, Jerry Sullivan and the owner of Stockman's, Lyle Kruse, Melonie Edge from The Western Edge and many more. Oh...we also climbed some farm machinery.  Here Jovie and Jake take in a new Case Combine...  Damn socialist kids...

Have a wonderful Sunday and see you at The Great Iowa State Fair!

Sex, Politics, Opinion & More - SMC - 01/15/2012

Grab a cup of Sunday Morning Coffee and we'll share stories that center on politics, sex, gossip and more.  My name is Michael P. Libbie, the thoughts and opinions are my own and you're free to connect with me here, on Twitter @MichaelLibbie or my personal Facebook Page.  It has been a very, very busy week.  Ready?  Let's go:

President-Elect Mitt Romney

Last summer I said that former Massachusetts Governor Mitt "John Kerry" Romney would be the Republican Nominee for POTUS in 2012.  My prediction for election night, ten months away, is that Governor Romney will lose in a very close election to President Obama and (and this is important) there will be an "Anybody But Mitt" challenge.  If not from the rabid folks who follow Ron Paul it will come from the Evangelical Christians who cringe at the thought of voting for a member of a religious cult.  Late last week this powerful block of voters backed former Senator Rick "I Got Jesus You Should Too" Santorum.  I think too little, too late.  But the fervor that will be expressed from the pulpit over the next four months will give hope to a challenger if not a third-party entry.  Write it down.

Governor Branstad's Party

I was at the State of the State address last week and what an amazing speech from Governor "For Life" Terry Branstad!  Gone were references to "faith and values".  The speech centered on jobs, education and jobs.  He'll also be raising taxes...as he has always done.  But, we'll call it something else.  He spent the rest of the week going about pushing his education agenda, including the goofy idea that students who fail to hold a "B average" in high school need not apply to college in order to become a teacher.  Talk about out of touch with reality.  And, how will he pay for this?  Perhaps by limiting local schools access to millions of dollars of infrastructure funds collected by local option sales tax?  Nah...  Anyway, here is the Governor leaving the party last week:

 

They are chanting "Put People First"...in case you didn't catch it.  Oh, and a little taste of...education and Charter Schools:

 

Danny Homan & Buttons

It was an interesting morning.  Here we have Danny Homan from AFSCME Iowa 61 talking about the union's "No Branstad" buttons and the Iowa Department of Corrections. 

 

Lawsuits and Safety...   Following the Governor's speech the door to his office was locked.  Unlike in former years when protesters were allowed into the governor's office to read their letter of grievances "security forces" indicated the mood of the protesters was a "security issue" for the governor.  Told you it was an interesting "after party".

Chris Hagenow - Week #49

Yep, still no Chris "Ain't Got No Newsletter for You!" Hagenow Newsletter.  However, I did try to see him last week at the State House.  We'll connect...someday and then I'll learn more about how hard he is fighting for those of us who live in the Village of Windsor Heights.

I Am Not a Good Jew...

This is partly personal.  Each month I spend Shabbos (Sabbath) in Mason City, Iowa.  I've had the pleasure of working with a congregation there for over 25 years.  They are a group of kind, dedicated individuals who, if the lights are on, they are in the shul.  It's heartwarming...  This month we switched weeks and wouldn't you know it my business was required to attend a meeting in Sioux City, Iowa on Saturday morning.  So, I broke tradition and traveled from Mason City to Sioux City on Friday night.  It's along four hour trip, in snow.  Also, know what's open between Fort Dodge and Sioux City between 11PM and 2AM?  NOTHING!  Had to scoop snow for fluids.  Yikes!  No wonder Steve King is the Congressman from that part of the world.  Like the Congressman, it's sort of like 1952...all over again. (I am sorry, could not resist.)

Better Than...SEX?

I was going to share a sexy story with you.  You know, something you can really get excited about.  Some risque adventure that will get you engaged in sharing...  BUT I think economic development is better than...sex.  Just want to share with you where, if you live in Iowa, your tax dollars are going when it comes to supporting business and industry.  For all the talk about supporting small business, Main Street, "Mom & Pop", women and minority businesses...it ain't happening.  Here is a great story from our friends at the Des Moines Register as to where your dollars are really going.  Who your tax dollars are supporting and (what is really SEXY) who isn't paying taxes back to the state.  Now, don't you wish you had that Viagra handy right now?

Gotta Go - Brunch Date

Sunday is "Family Brunch Day"here.  Mom and our Des Moines Kids come over for a meal and some chatter about the week.  I also get to have my son help me lift stuff.  Actually, my Bride directs traffic and she has us lift stuff... 

Thanks for coming by for a read.  Enjoy YOUR Sunday! - Michael