SundayMorningCoffee

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 12 September 2021

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

The Debt Ceiling

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

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

New Poll

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

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

The Religious Exemption

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

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

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

Dave Muhlbauer 

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

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

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

49+ Candidates

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

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

Andrea Phillips

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

Partly Personal

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

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

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 5 September 2021 - Labor Day

It's the Labor Day Weekend...the time that was created for mattress sales. It is supposed to be about celebrating the efforts of labor
unions who have made the lives better for millions of Americans but, for some reason you have allowed corporations to dictate and in many places ceded our right to organize. Congratulations. Jeff Bezos wins and you...don't. Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee...warning, I'm in a mood today.

FreeDumb

And it continues as millions of people deny the rights of the majority and demand their FreeDumb from vaccination efforts. It's September and soon we'll head back inside there will be Halloween Parties, Thanksgiving Dinners, Christmas Gatherings and funerals. It makes no sense...none. Meanwhile businesses are starting to get the hint that vaccinated people contribute more to the economy than dead people so they are doubling down on vaccine mandates. Some are even hiking insurance premiums for those who are unvaccinated. Good for them. You want your FreeDumb from vaccination?  Pay up.

Ya gotta wonder how long it will be before Gov. Greg Abbott (R-TX) or Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) ban that practice...right?

Speaking of Texas

This is interesting. The Texas anti-abortion bill is causing all sorts of issues…one of the latest involves Uber and Lyft.

Lyft executives plan to create a legal-defense fund for drivers in response to a Texas law that severely restricts abortions, and rival Uber Technologies is doing the same. Lyft CEO Logan Green made the announcement on Twitter adding that the ride-hailing company would also donate $1 million to Planned Parenthood.

Less than two hours later Uber released a statement that they too were starting a legal fund for drivers.

They Cheered

Recently Rep. Jim Jordan (R-OH) was in Iowa stumping for the 45th president. He's the guy who talks to "45" often but can't remember if he spoke to him or how many time he spoke to him on the 6th of January. Anyway, he was in the Hawkeye State for a GOP event and when he said that he believed "45" will mount another campaign for president the people cheered. So, nope, like COVID it ain't over. Weary...

Oh yeah...guess who introduced Jordan?  Dan Gable...I wish I had better news.... (Image: KCCI TV8)

Unemployment & Jobs

Very soon lots (millions) of people will lose their enhanced unemployment benefits. It's the way we force people to get off their lazy butts and get a job. Except it doesn't seem to be working that way. In the states that have already stopped benefits the job numbers are about the same as the states that did not. In other words that stick ain't workin'.

On Friday the Labor Department released the August Jobs Report and the U.S. added only 235,000 jobs last month…well off the mark set by Wall Street economists…they had predicted the creation of 720,000 jobs.  Getting the blame in all of this is the rising cases of the Delta Variant of COVID19 as employees and employers continue to register concern about getting back to normal.

Meanwhile record numbers of Americans are voluntary quitting their jobs. Why? Because they have had it with low wages, lousy working conditions, crappy benefits...what they should be doing is organizing. (Image: Yahoo News) 

Nursing Home Training

Back in the day I was taken to task by the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals because they saw me delivering food trays to people in the long term care facility where I held the license. Actually, it was more than that.  They witnessed me actually feeding a resident who could not help herself. They took me aside and said, "You can not do that you are not a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)." No, but it's my name on the administrators license... No matter, rules are rules.  "You have to be trained to do direct patient care."  You see, the State of Iowa requires 75 hours of training time, including 30 hours of clinical work. CNAs must then take and successfully pass the CNA competency exams.

Except now you don't. 

The nursing home industry has successfully, for years, been guilty of underpaying staff and running their facilities with fewer and fewer CNA's. Now, rather than actually pay the people more they have convinced the state that folks don't need that mandated education to do direct patient care...so it's been scrapped. So if you're tired of cutting up meat at the packing plant head on over to the nursing home. You're still an "essential worker" who will be  paid...squat.

House District 37

Hello Ankeny...we're talking about YOU!  Friday night saw folks flocking to the stadium as Ankeny took on Ankeny Centennial in a football game. Centennial won 14 - 7. Lots of folks turned out for this the first head to head local match up.  They were, shall we say, motivated.

In my time knocking doors for Andrea Phillips, who is running for an open seat in the Iowa Legislature there, I was (not) surprised at how many people had no idea there is a special election on September 14. But there is...and we've got a great chance of flipping that seat. Andrea has name recognition, she's a seasoned campaigner and she has veteran organizer Mary McAdams running the show there.  The issue is not lack of "want" the issue is a lack of motivation...or maybe people just do not...care.

I do...and so should you. We've seen what happens when the state puts their future in the hands of the back-sliding Republican group who is in the majority in both the House and Senate. Iowa moves in a very bad direction from health care to voting, to education. You can make a difference Ankeny.  You. Here is the website for Andrea Phillips...go...volunteer. 

Partly Personal

Later today it's Flash Dine Des Moines. My Bride and her friend Carla Pope have been up to their necks in planning the event. It's not a huge crowd and everyone is expected to be in their "pod". Last year the event was cancelled...this year it's on.  Perhaps we'll see you? Rules are pretty simple: 1) Everybody wears white; 2) You bring your own table, chairs, decorations; 3) You bring your own food and drink and we're out of there by 8PM.  Where is it going to be held?  You need to head to FlashDineDSM on Facebook.

Heading to Mason City tomorrow for Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. And, nope there will not be hats and horns. It is the start of the ten days that leads up to Yom Kippur the Day of Atonement and the most holy day on the Jewish Calendar. We did not meet last year and this year social distancing and vaccinations are required.  Sorry governor. 

Have a great Sunday and let's try to remember what Labor Day really means.  Thanks for reading.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 9 May 2021 - Mother's Day

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

"Bo" Obama

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

Iowa - "The Fearful State"

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

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

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

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

Transgender Sports

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

IOB 8 May 2021 Keenan Crow

Partly Personal

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

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

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

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

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 2 May 2021

Welcome to May. Back in the day "May Day" was a big deal. Nope, not for "May Baskets" but for organized labor. It started on May 1, 1886 when 300,000 workers across the U.S. walked off the job in a show of worker solidarity. It was an organized shutdown. Since then business leaders and politicians have done everything they can to throttle unions.  And, it has worked. That's why the middle class has not seen wages increase since the early 1970's. But the wealthy?  Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee...opinion coming to you each Sunday for...years. 

Keeping You Poor & Stupid

That, my friends, is the goal of the GOP. Do everything you can to keep people in the dark. Cut funding for education or, better yet, tell local school districts what they can and can not teach. Then pass law after law that makes it more difficult to organize a union. Unions that will work on behalf of middle class families for wages and benefits. What you get is throngs of people who are feeling left out but don't have the wisdom to figure out what has happened to them so they just pray for "crumbs from the table" of their masters. It's a really sick society.

I've Got Mine...Screw You

When you live in a society that is "me centric" that is what you get. Oh sure, folks will go to their local house of worship, get some entertainment and maybe even a slice of religion. But then they go back about their business without heading the words of their faith to care for the poor the down trodden. the widow the orphan. "Nah, I got mine, screw you! Lift yourself up by your own bootstraps!" Trouble is many simply don't have...boots. 

It's Time to Pass the PRO Act

Millions of Americans would join a union if they could. Research says some 60 million workers are out there waiting. But over the years policymakers, lobbyists and CEOs have stopped at nothing to keep worker power at bay. They weakened the National Labor Relations Act. They attacked collective bargaining rights. It's a disgrace for the American worker.

But, at long last, we have within our sight the ability to turn things around with the passage of the PRO Act. Protecting the Right to Organize would hold employers accountable and institute civil penalties for violations of the law, including back pay and damages. 

As my friend Charlie Wishman from the AFL/CIO wrote, "The PRO Act would put the decision of whether or not to form a union back where it belongs—in the hands of workers, free from employer interference." I'm in...you?

Building Back Better

The speech on Wednesday evening by President Biden was a master stroke. It was transformational. I have friends on the "Left" who cringed at the thought of listening to Joe as he, in their words, "...would try to sooth us with more of the same middle of the road Pablum". What they got surprised and amazed. The president tied every single issue from climate change to removing lead pipes to...JOBS. In his words, "Good paying union jobs...".

Joe Biden, speaking to the people and not the politicians, scored major points. It wasn't about hand-outs but it was about offering hope and, yes, jobs.  Good paying jobs that would usher in a new era of American prosperity for the working families of this nation. Best of all even the rank and file among Republicans approve. So the best the GOP could do was call it "over-reach" and "socialism". And then trot out Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC) who couldn't tell the truth and started out his rebuttal with the words, "Joe Biden seems like a good man..." Seems like? Tim, you couldn't even give this most compassionate of presidents that? He went on to say that Republicans are working hard to make sure Americans can vote even as they gut voting rights in nearly every state.  It was all...lies. Even the "Christian talk" fell flat. Weary...

Take It Back...

Last week Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA), who is working day and night to become more Alabama than Alabama, said Iowa didn't need the $95 million that was to be used for testing and contact tracing among schools because, "Our students are just fine and we're back in school full time." What an idiot. What is difficult to believe is that the press fails to pin her to the wall. As new variants show up and appear to be more contagious to young people this governor simply looks the other way and lies. One has to wonder if she's not back on the bottle. Awful...simply awful.

Meanwhile Those "Trans-People"

Also last week Reynolds said she expects a "Transgender Bill" on her desk before the session ends. What she is saying is that, just like Arkansas, she would make it a state crime for a trans-person to participate in sports according to his/her self gender identification. Expect the lemmings under the Golden Dome to act with haste even though their daily cash payments ended last week. Gotta do whatever we can to protect the Iowa way of life.  And, all of this goes on while the Iowa Business Council, the Iowa Association of Business and Industry begs for more people to come to Iowa because they need workers.  Good luck. (Image - Brian Duffy)

Partly Personal

It's been a tough week. Our little Tinker has been going downhill for a couple of weeks. Over the past two months we've tried everything from traditional vet care to acupuncture to water therapy, to physical therapy to adding more calories to her diet, more vitamins...but nothing worked. So we made the decision to end her suffering. Thursday was awful and, to be truthful, I wasn't able to do much in the way of "work".  Friday was better but the sadness remains.  Those of you who have gone through that know exactly what I'm saying. We go into becoming a "pet parent" with the full knowledge it is not a "forever" deal.  And, that sucks. So very grateful to the staff at Avondale Pet Hospital for all they did and their kindness this past week. When you see your vet shed a tear...

It was a remarkable day. Last week I put on a pair of "real" pants complete with a belt and "real" shoes. It was such a momentous event that Georgie did a double take and asked if she could take a photo. The photo also shows something that I swore I would never do and that is to wear brown/tan shoes with blue pants. While I still think it is unholy in the true sense of the 1975 book, "Dress for Success" by John T. Malloy I caved. 

I shouldn't have because it was a dark omen. I went to Von Maur, dressed like a real person, and learned that they no longer carry Agua di Geo men's cologne. It seems Lancôme pulled their products from many department stores. (Pandemic, no doubt)  Then it was on to Principal Park to pick up my Iowa Cubs "Season Opener" shirt. But the merch place was closed.  So, dressed in blue and tan, I went 0 for 2.  It's a sign...

Thanks for reading...have a great Sunday! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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 29 November 2020

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

OK, This is Serious

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

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

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

He's Running!

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

Obama

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

Shit Hole Country

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

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

America Did Fail Our Kids

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

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

Partly Personal

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

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

Thanks for reading... 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 12 July 2020

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

Mob Boss

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

A Promise is a Promise

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

More Winning!

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

Speaking of Failures

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

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

Promises, Promises

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

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

Go To School!!

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

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

It's Personal

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

Voting Matters

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

Dave Miglin for Broadlawns

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

Partly Personal

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

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

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

Thanks for reading and have a safe and healthy Sunday. 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 5 April 2020

The sun has returned to Iowa! Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee my weekly look at the news stories you have seen or, perhaps, missed and all with my usual bit of editorial. Hey, it's what I get to do.  Today, for my Christian friends it is Palm Sunday.  Peace.  Let's get started.

Your Fired!

The Commander in Chief seems to think that he and his cronies are on some ill fated reality show.  Well, in a way they are. Each day The Virus Show comes to us with little drama but lots of lies.  But, I digress. Captain Brett Crozer wrote a letter saying that his ship the USS Theodore Roosevelt was in trouble as a number of sailors had contracted COVID-19. The letter that he wrote was for his superiors but it was leaked to the media and the captain was...fired. He was standing up for the men and women under his command. 

This morning Defence Secretary Mike Esper (a former defense lobbyist) said that he believes the action was correct and that, “I think it's just another example of how we hold leaders accountable for their actions."  Ironic...no?

The Saddest Week in America

This morning Surgeon General Jerome Adams warned that the week ahead would be the “hardest and the saddest” of “most Americans’ lives.” What he should have said was that "The time the President of the United States scoffed at COVID-19 were the saddest six weeks of our lives which allowed this plague to run out of control." But, he didn't.

Relax, Jared Is On It!

I was really starting to worry about the future of millions of Americas but then we learned that Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of the president, has taken a lead role in advising what to do in the face of the pandemic. You might remember Jared he was the point person who was able to finally bring peace to the Middle East. Oh, wait...

Meanwhile in Iowa

We're in good shape here. Nothing to worry about. Dr. Kim Reynolds (who also happens to be the governor) says she knows best with regard to handling the COVID-19 outbreak in the state that now has close to 1,000 cases and 14 deaths. While that pales in comparison to Washington State or New York it's not clear, really, how many are infected. We simply don't have the data....because we don't have the tests...because nobody knows. But Dr. Reynolds pronounced last week that she and her crack team know better than some, oh...doctors...about the reality of what is going on and what we should do. So, there is that. And would somebody please get her a lab coat....

And Now A Word From Our Sponsor

Well, not really but have you heard of the video conferencing program called Lifesize?  I used it last week to conduct an interview with a business in Germany.  Pretty cool.  Now, back to our show. (Oh, and I'm not being paid to promote...just thought you should have an option.)

Iowa State Senate District Meeting

It caused quite a stir yesterday...or so I am told. A Republican who is running against another Republican for the open seat in District 22 (Clive, West Des Moines, Waukee and Windsor Heights) posted, on her facebook page that she was gathering with other "GOP Women" at their annual meeting.  It was complete with a photo of a bunch of smiling ladies that looks like it was taken at the Machine Shed Restaurant on Hickman in Urbandale (Owner Mike Whalen is a big time donor to the GOP.) It didn't take long for folks that follow that sort of thing to call her out for the posting. She later clarified that it was a "virtual meeting".  So who posts dumb stuff like that?  Oh, never mind...bet she got the "all clear" from Dr. Reynolds.

Partly Personal

Sorry, just a half a cup of Sunday Morning Coffee today.  So much to get done.  But there are a couple of personal thoughts. So you know my friends at the Windsor Heights HyVee have stocked up on Passover Food.  Gotta make a quick run later today.  Passover begins on the evening of Wednesday the 8th of April. It's a big deal. Sadly our congregation, Adas Israel, in Mason City had to cancel our annual Community Seder and this year our own Seder will lack the number of friends and family that usually attend. Perhaps it will give us time to reflect on this, the latest plague, and our response. The photo...SLICES.  Those of you who know...know. 

This morning I learned of the death of Reb Aaron Rubashkin OBM the founder of Agriprocessors which revolutionized kosher meat production and was based in Postville, Iowa.  Aaron died in New York from COVID-19 at the age of 92. To be sure, I had never met Aaron Rubashkin but I know, and like, his son Shalom Rubashkin.  Before he was convicted and sent to prison on a host of immigration violations we met many times and he was, when in Des Moines, a regular at the Orthodox Shul, Beth El Jacob. He served some time and in 2017 had his sentence commuted by the president.  I've always thought it odd that of the many meat processors that dot Iowa and those who have been raided and found to be in violation of immigration laws...to my knowledge...only one person had been convicted and sent to prison.  Aaron Rubashkin, from what I am told, was a humble and generous person. May his memory be a blessing. (Image- USA Today)

I also learned of the death of a gentle soul and friend Ron Scott. Ron had been battling cancer for several years. I understand that he died, at home, peacefully this weekend. Ron was one of the many who worked for NASA during the wonder days of that organization. We had many talks about how these men and women in different parts of the country worked together to do amazing things in the space program. Ron went on to become a member of the clergy and retired to a real estate firm in Florida. His devoted bride, Nancy, is...crushed and so too are those of us who came into contact with this wonderful man.  May his memory be a blessing.

Finally an issue that I have been passionate about for decades is, now, showing itself to be a crisis. The State of Iowa has known about this for years and years and...we have failed. You may not be aware but if somebody were to ask how many direct caregivers we have in the state nobody could tell you. There is no complete data base of people who work in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, home health care agencies, rehab facilities... But, it's not only a lack of information about who these folks are and how we might be able to mobilize them...the disregard for the valuable work they do, everyday, and at low pay they receive is disgraceful. You may not have thought about this...before. But, bet you do now.  Once we get beyond this plague I promise you that I will work on behalf of direct caregivers and do everything I can to elevate their role in our healthcare system and support them in their quest for better pay and more respect. It's the right thing to do.

To that end...if you would like to help me take that support to the Iowa Legislature here is a link to my Iowa State Senate Campaign website. I could use your assistance and...thank you, in advance.

They call this "Holy Week" for many reasons.  May you find peace.

Thanks for reading!

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning (Brunch) Coffee 26 January 2020

I know...late! Yesterday (Saturday) was a campaign and family day and because I had the Business News Hour - Week in Review to produce for airing today on News/Talk 1540 KXEL at 1PM.  I'm way behind. But, then again, you already know what I'm going to share with you...right?  Grab a seat and some Sunday Morning Coffee:

On the Chopping Block

Well now...as you know the GOP has long looked at Social Security and Medicare as places where they can slash the budget and claw back some income that was given away by the 2017 Tax and Jobs Act. You know the little "deal" that gave corporations in the United States a windfall of $150 billion that, mostly, went to stock buy-backs that enriched CEO's and major shareholders. That "deal" has helped balloon the deficit to over $1 trillion and the Republicans are starting to feel the bite. After all it was that group that crowed at every budget from the Obama Administration that it was "adding to the deficit".

Last week in Davos for the World Economic Forum "45" was asked this question as it pertained to the budget: “Are entitlements on your radar?”

Now, to be clear Social Security and Medicare are NOT entitlements. You and I have been paying into these systems for decades. But, true to form this is what the president said:

"At some point they will be. We have tremendous growth. We’re going to have tremendous growth. This next year I — it’ll be toward the end of the year. The growth is going to be incredible. And at the right time, we will take a look at that. You know, that’s actually the easiest of all things, if you look, cause it’s such a — “

The president then wandered off into a string of false claims about the economy repeating things like... “We’ve never had growth like this.” Even though economic growth during Mr. Trump’s term is nowhere near a record pace. (Photo: LA Times)

Brace yourself...

Impeachment

It's been quite a week and coming up even more fun as the U.S. Senate continues the trial of the president. Last week the House Managers gave compelling reasons for the Senate to bring in more information and witnesses. Given the fact that over 60% of Americans feel the same way it should have mattered. However the GOP Senate is moving in lock-step with Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY) in ignoring the evidence and playing with fidget spinners. Weary... (Photo: National Post)

Meanwhile the crew defending the president continues to say, "Nothing wrong. He didn't do what he did. Never mind. Move along there is nothing to see here."  And the official network of the president is only too happy to continue that defense. And about 45% of you agree. Yikes!

Canada?

Last week at the World Economic Forum in Davos there was a report out about the best place in which to live if you really want to experience the "American Dream". Turns out the study says you need to move to...Canada. The World Economic Form’s index of global social mobility finds that people born with less wealth have a better chance of home ownership, quality education and a better life than their parents if they are born in Canada rather than the United States. See what you learn here? 

Economics & The Des Moines Metro

Which brings me to this and it's on a much more local scale. I just finished reading the "2020 Economic Outlook" published by the Business Record a publication that highlights business in the metro of Des Moines, Iowa and guess what...everything is just fine. The economy is booming and people are happy and we are on a growth curve that will continue to have a positive impact on the entire state.

Business leaders from across the Metro chimed in with much the same message: "Oh sure other places are having a tough time and we could use some more workers and, well, there is no need to worry...we've got this handled."

Some of those quoted used the ink to highlight their own business and how, if you use their services, they can create magic and you too will join the ranks of the winners.  

I did read it...twice.

Look, I get it. It is the "job" of the Business Record to boost business and it is the job of those who were quoted to boost the line that everything is just fine and could not be better. I get it.

However if that is the case why are over 90% of the kids in school on free and reduced meals?  How come thousands of folks are working two and three jobs and are paying over 50% of their income on housing and transportation? Why is it that thousands of working families must resort to child care that is not certified safe and leads to tragic circumstances? Why is it that rural health care delivery in Iowa continues to degrade? And, why is it, that if business is so great, why would the governor of this state float a sales tax increase which will have a negative impact on working families rather than actually collect the taxes that so many businesses are...avoiding?

Yeah...that.

The Des Moines Register

Today the DMR endorsed Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass) for president. You could see that coming from a mile away.  Senator Warren has a massive set of plans to tackle just about every ill that currently faces America. She is smart, energetic and would be a fantastic candidate for the progressive wing of the Democratic Party. Totally understand.

Meanwhile she and Mayor Pete Buttigieg (D-South Bend, IN) are "surging" in New Hampshire. Which is interesting because on some major policies they differ greatly. 

Where will voters land? The Iowa Caucuses will be held on February 3rd and we are all expecting a massive turnout. So large it is starting to scare some folks and perhaps keep them from attending. I will tell you that the Iowa Democratic Party and your local county have been working on this for months and months. Will Iowa nominate the eventual winner of the nomination? Odds are, we will not. However it's been a great ride for those of us who follow and engage in the political system.

One more thing: Back in 2012 the Des Moines Register endorsed Mitt Romney now Sen. Mitt Romney (R-UT). Never did understand that but it was a powerful endorsement.

Should she be the nominee or, frankly, anyone currently running, I'll work there.

Partly Personal

It's been quite the week. Just getting back from a four day business trip that required 17 hour days...yikes...and then back in the saddle here. Meanwhile, our Big Oscar has been having some leg issues. So bad that I've been sleeping on the couch in the same room as he because he's so used to sleeping in our bedroom. Not complaining. Tomorrow it's back to the vet. Fingers crossed.

Friday night I joined my fellow Democrat Lila Starr from Clive at the Iowa Wild Hockey Game. We were there to help staff a booth on behalf of the Polk County Democrats our job was to talk up the Iowa Caucuses, voting and more.  It was a good evening but, must confess we had...one interaction. One. It would seem that voting and hockey just didn't match up that night. But, it was great to spend the evening with Lila and hear about the efforts going on in Clive with the Clive Democrats.  YAY! 

It could be due to the fact that folks are overwhelmed with "Stuff to Do" or it could be a precursor that consumer discretionary spending is getting a second look...by you the consumer. This weekend I attended two free public events. One was the Annual Bicycle Trade Show held at the Iowa Events Center and the other was the Annual I'll Make Me a World in Iowa an event highlighting opportunity and progress among the African American Community.

Both events were down in the number of people displaying and the attendees. On the bicycle side of things it could be that the rift between RAGBRAI and the new Iowa Ride has had an impact. Both groups were in attendance but I can't help but think this, along with the economy, had an impact. 

One of the highlights of the event was the unveiling of the Karras/Kaul bronze statues that will grace a new monument in the Des Moines Water Works Park. John Karras and Donald Kaul (both reporters for the Des Moines Register) are credited for starting the annual Register's Annual Great Bike Ride Across Iowa (RAGBRAI) years ago. It was special to have John there to do the reveal. Along side of Carl Voss who, along with others helped make this possible. Carl now is a newly elected Des Moines City Councilman. Later in the day the RAGBRAI route was announced. It starts in La Mars (think ice creme) and takes a northern route ending in Clinton. If you want to see the route here is that link. That would be Jovie between the two bronzes.

Meanwhile, going on at the same time, the I'll Make Me a World in Iowa (IMMAWIIA) a festival that celebrates the history, culture and food of the African American Community through art, education and performance was another stop. It's a major event, not just for Black folks but for everybody, that...once again...did not have the number of vendors as in past years. However I did get to connect, again with some of my great friends, learn about the African American Museum in Cedar Rapids, hang out with Dr. Eddie Moore Jr. (if you are EVER where he is speaking go!) and see an amazing display that focuses on the voting rights of African Americans in the United States. It's a struggle and continues to be decades after the Voting Rights Act which has now been diluted by the U.S. Supreme Court.

Next is was on to a basketball game in Waukee. Our grand-daughter Taylor and her team split a double
header. Great times and so happy to be there. 

And now...it is Sunday Afternoon! Whew!

Thanks for reading and a reminder....if you would please donate to my campaign for the Iowa State Senate we, along with others, can make a difference for working families from across this great state. You know me as a long-time progressive voice who will work on behalf of working families not only in the DSM Metro but across the state. We've got to do this my friends...the future depends on it.  However, I can not do it alone...need your help. 

Thank you!! 

Have a fantastic Sunday!