SundayMorningCoffee

Sunday Morning Coffee - The Father's Day Edition

Something special today...the Urbandale Public Library is closed. Equal time for Father's Day!!!  Yay and a Happy Father's Day to you and yours. Being a Dad is a wonderment and I am grateful...forever. OK, coffee is on and the world is crazy these days. Let's get into it...politics and gossip because it is Sunday Morning Coffee!

Just Impeach 

"Norway, if you are listening...". I am so done with this guy. To think, that at one time, the office of the President of the United States meant something. Today the majority of Americans and nations look at our "great leader" and laugh. This past week brought everything to a new low. While countless experts inside and outside of the government warn of potential cyber issues rolling into 2020 the GOP sits on the sidelines because they know and hope this most unpopular president will get the help he needs for re-election. 

Meanwhile in the U.S. Senate Mitch McConnell (R-TN) has vowed that the recently House bill on election security will "not get a vote" in the Senate. Of course not...the goal is to protect at all costs...even the very democracy we say we love and wish to defend. 

Lies and Liars

So White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders is leaving her job as chief liar and presidential apologist. I've often wondered how she sleeps at night knowing that she consistently misleads the American people. But, then again, the apple does not fall far from the tree. One glance at her father gives it away and of course Arkansas fell for that one...too.  Happy Father's Day and cue Scaramucci?

Oil Tankers

We all remember "weapons of mass destruction" and what turned out to be a dud. It wasn't the first time a president lied. But when the Commander-in-Chief lies...daily...how can we believe that Iran is responsible for an attack on an oil tanker? The simple answer is that we can not. And, that's the problem. In business there is one word we hate and that word is "uncertainty". Given the track record of "45' who the hell knows what happened and that is the real danger he has brought to our nation.

Tired of Losing?

I was talking to a friend the other day about politics...and losing. I've been involved in political efforts for decades. As a staffer a candidate and a volunteer. I've won some...and lost others. There is a greater lesson, I believe, in losing than in winning. 

Over the past several months I've been having serious conversations with people about public office and the one thing that always comes up is that we, as Democrats, tend to be too timid in our policy decisions. It's not that we don't believe in the policies but that we tend to melt away from the hard-nosed fight. To be sure, there are exceptions. But, far too often we're playing defense when the times demand offense. People follow because they believe that the person who is speaking really, really is going to the mat for the issues that resonate.

It is always about the electorate...always.

It's something to chew on as we ramp up to 2020 and beyond.

Iowa U.S. Senate Race

It's getting more interesting by the day. With three Democrats already announcing their campaigns political folk are hinting there may be more waiting in the wings. Currently Theresa Greenfield, Kimberly Graham and Eddie Mauro are all in to take on Sen. Joni Ernst (R-IA) next year. Linn County Supervisor Stacey Walker said that he is "considering" a run and J.D. Scholten who ran a great race against Rep. Steve King (R-IA) last cycle says stuff that sounds like a candidate. 

Granted the "talk" is just talk and one has to wonder if the strong announcement from Greenfield was enough to freeze the lineup. The one thing that is a bit troubling is the three announced candidates are all from Polk County and one has to wonder how that will play statewide.

No answers here...just questions.

Help Wanted

This past week we had a news story that the Labor Department reported there are 1.5 million more open jobs in the United States than there are unemployed people. To put that in perspective if there are 6 million unemployed people in America there are 7.5 million open jobs. That is the biggest spread...ever.

In that same report we learned that there were 3.4 million "voluntary quits" in April. That means folks who are working at a job they hate...left to find employment elsewhere.

All of this is having a big impact on political campaigns. With so many 2020 presidential candidates in the field good talent is being sucked up...quickly. Several campaigns have told me that finding people has been tough.

Bottom line...if you are "so done" with your dead-end job. NOW is the time to move on.

Reminder - Polk County Steak Fry

You're going to get this on a weekly basis you know...the Harkin Steak Fry held in Indianola each year on behalf of former Sen. Tom Harkin (D-IA) was always a great event. Three years ago the Polk County Democrats, with Tom's blessing, resurrected the steak fry idea and branded it for the party. This year it's going to be massive and there is no better time than NOW to get your tickets. Come on...it will be fantastic!

Partly Personal

I was visiting with a young lady the other day who said, "My gosh, you are always so busy and you've got so much going on in your professional life. How do you keep up?" I'm hoping that was a complement. 

Oh...and former Vice President Joe Biden was in Iowa last week. Just sayin'.

Today it's off to more softball games. Jovie (grand-daughter) is on a team that has won the first three games of their state tournament. She's the catcher and a damn good one. Later this morning we're going to have to measure her "wing-span". At 11 years old sometimes pitchers can get a bit wild with their pitches but Jovie snags balls low...and really high. It's fun to watch on Father's Day.

Have a great day...and thanks for reading! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Yes Virginia There Is Hope - Sunday Morning Coffee 12 November 2017

Where did THAT week go? Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee where I look at some political stories you might have seen, or missed, and offer my commentary. Sometimes fun, often serious, it's what I do...and thank you for coming by for a shot but careful...the coffee is hot! Let's dig in! We've got it all today: Politics, Sex, Religion...what more could you ever want?

Yes Virginia!

While the nation endures what is an increasingly crippled administration there is hope for America. Last week in the Commonwealth of Virginia the Democrats took back the governors office and evened out the assembly by offering clear and principled answers to public policy. There and in states all across the nation candidates started to claw back control of everything from city councils to state legislatures. (As our contributing cartoonist Tim Lloyd suggests we are riding a wave!) And they did it by running for something and not against "45". There is a deep lesson here for 2018 and I think we've got the message. 

Helena Montana

Need more than Virginia? Take a look at Helena, Montana where 45 crushed Clinton by over 21 percentage points...twenty-one. Last week a "progressive ticket" swept the City Commission race and elected a slate of progressive candidates to represent them in city hall. What was the message in Helena? You could sum it up as "people first" agenda from homelessness, to small scale economic development to clean water. Here too the message was not on a failed national administration but on moving forward with solid progressive ideas. Well done and it would seem like  For the 'back-story" here is the article from the Helena Independent Record. But, come back...OK?

The Iowa Political Hack

I first met Sen. Charles Grassley (R-IA) when he was still a congressman. We shared a table in Webster City one evening and I found him refreshing and loaded with common sense. It was sort of a "Mr. Smith Goes to Washington" sort of style. Over the years I have hosted the senator at a number of meetings and events where the topic was aging. However Sen. Grassley has become, over the past several years, a political hack who cares little for Iowa and the rule of law. Last week it was Grassley who dismissively waved off questions about Roy Moore of Alabama. It was Grassley who voted to approve a life-time judgeship to a failed three year lawyer. It was Grassley who last year denied the Constitution and refused to grant a hearing for a Supreme Court nominee. Each week that goes by his connection to "Mr. Smith" fades and withers. It is time for a replacement. Let's get it going Iowa.

Notice Something Missing?

Here is something to ponder... Michael Flynn has been absent. Despite mountains of evidence that the former national security officer was engaged in illegal practices there have been no indictments offered up by the Robert Mueller probe. That has led many to wonder if Flynn has already been "spilling the beans" on the Russia/45 incident. Flynn, who stepped down in disgrace after just 24 days on the job has been AOL for months. And, we need to remember that Flynn had much more direct access to the campaign than did George Papadopoulos who has already been telling all. Interesting, no?

Jesus, Mary, Joseph and Roy Moore

In what has to be the most outlandish attempt at supporting Roy Moore of Alabama GOP Auditor Jim Zigler said there was nothing immoral or illegal going on with the accusation Moore had a relationship with a 14 year old girl...when Moore was 32. Zigler was even able to bring the Bible to the table when he said, "Take Joseph and Mary. Mary was a teenager and Joseph was an adult carpenter. They became the parents of Jesus." These people are amazing and you've got to wonder what planet they come from. Gotta love their "family values". It's a hot mess.... Meanwhile a former Moore colleague said yesterday that, "It was common knowledge that Moore dated high school girls when he worked for the Etowah County District Attorney's Office in the 1980's. In a statement to CNN Teresa Jones who served with Moore said, "It was common knowledge that Roy Moore dated high school girls, everyone we knew thought it was weird," Jones told CNN. "We wondered why someone his age would hang out at high school football games and the mall ... but you really wouldn't say anything to someone like that." Oh really?

They Do Not Care

Last week men, women and children were slaughtered while they were in a church in Texas and weak-spine politicians are offering "thoughts and prayers" to their families. Thoughts and prayers...they were in a damn church praying you idiots. Of course it's "too soon" to talk about sensible gun controls. Of course it is too soon to talk about the failure of the United States Military who "forgot" to mention to the federal government that the shooter was a nut job and was drummed out of the air force because he beat his wife and child. One more time...there is no reason, none, that Americans should be able to possess military style firearms. These weapons are made to kill as many people as possible in a short amount of time. That is their function and the fact that the United States thinks that is "just fine" is a condemnation of the highest order. If we wanted to we could get serious about this but...frankly...the people in power simply do not care. Bringing us even closer to the next "worst mass murder event in the nation's history". So very weary...

You Don't Either...

As long as I'm at it... I would assume there are more of you who are depressed and saddened by the two football loses yesterday by Iowa State and the University of Iowa than are moved to speak out in favor of gun control in our state. In fact, I have proof. You voted in a whole bunch of "gun nuts" as legislators. Nice going...and I just proved my point. You do not care. If you did you would be demanding a different set of laws and you would be serious about it. Go, ahead...own it...it will do you good.

Israel and Iowa

On Wednesday morning I attended an event hosted by Iowans Supporting Israel and I believe I was the only media person in the room who covered the story and asked a question. It was a panel discussion on the impressions four Iowans had about a recent trade mission  to Israel. At the table was Debi Durham, Director of the Iowa Economic Development Authority, Sara Kurovski, Mayor of Pleasant Hill, Don Schoen, CEO of BettrLife and Jamie Letzring, Deputy City Manager for West Des Moines. It was, mostly, a reflection on their trip, a few mentions of religion and conversation about culture. The most important piece of information was something shared by Debi Durham who told the 125+ people in the room that Iowa was going to forge ahead with a bi-lateral trade commission between Iowa and Israel and focus on several key industries including precision agriculture and bio-medicine. Yeah...it was that good!

Partly Personal

I learned a valuable lesson last week in my failed attempt at a Windsor Heights City Council run. And, what is worse, I should have known it all along. I learned that to be successful, even in small town politics, you must not commit to solid ideas. It is far better to offer platitudes and play on emotion than it is to offer up details of public policy. The reason I should have known that is because my business is all about playing on emotion. I'm in the advertising business and our goal, in all our media efforts, is to "sell the sizzle and not the steak". In other words leave the details for those who are really, really interested in details. For the general public say nice things or scare the hell out of them with inaccurate and false statements.  Both work.

I will tell you it was an amazing experience and something that was a great value. Thank you to the many people who took the time to get involved. And, I would encourage you to put your name on a ballot. It's quite the experience. I met some wonderful people along the way and found their insight remarkable. I also met people who were angry and feared change. I get it...change is hard. So is football...

Thanks for reading and have a remarkable Sunday and a fantastic week!.

Sunday Morning Coffee - 1 October 2017

Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee my look at some of the political stories you may have seen or missed all laced with my commentary. It's what I get to do early on a Sunday Morning. So, grab a cup but, a word of warning, it can sometimes be very hot! Thanks for coming by! And, sorry this is late...I was LATE getting back from Mason City last night...that holiday ya know. 

Obsessed

The talking heads are describing "45" as either the best at manipulating the media and public opinion or the very worst. I dunno but the man is obsessed with himself and it is simply "unhinged". To spend critical time on Tweets that malign others and call into question our basic rights is simply amazing. And YOU voted for him. Last week I visited with a young man who voted for "45" and I asked him, "So, how is that working out for you?" He told me he didn't see much of a choice because "both candidates were bad". It's the standard line I get from so many of you who actually voted for this guy. The "lesser of two evils". Really? Was it Hillary's hair? Makeup? Marriage? That she was a SHE? Maybe because she had real experience? That you believed Russia? Or was it that you liked the fact that the other candidate has never served anyone other than himself? Delights in name calling? Grabs women by the crotch? Yeah...that stuff huh?  So, how is it going for you?

Hey Boy, Git Back to Work

Seeing that "45" is so worked up about NFL players kneeling during the National Anthem got me to think about where this all started. It was Colin Kaepernick who began to kneel during the National Anthem because he wished to protest the disparate treatment and murder of African Americans at the hands of the police. It was not, at that time, a story about free speech but it has morphed into that debate. We can not forget the original intent and while it is "nice" to see players, now in nearly every sport, show their support of the First Amendment we should not forget what is happening on our streets, in our jails or prisons. This nation has a racial problem of enormous magnitude. This is a nation that has never come to grips to the fact we thought nothing of making other humans slaves. Slaves people! Slaves...let that sink in for a moment. This is NOT about "states rights" or a flag or a song this is about coming face to face with the bigotry and the hate one group has toward another. It is a demonstration that brings forward the fact that we see color and we react to it with a deep distrust and often hate. It is, in a not so subtle way, a method for those who HAVE VOICE to share the reality of racial injustice with others and, perhaps, take a knee in prayer that we, at some time soon, will come together as one nation. If you think that is wrong... (Cartoon - Tim Lloyd)

Lazy Just Lazy

Why did it take nine days to get The  USS Comfort, a U.S. Navy hospital ship, out of port and head to Puerto Rico? Why was it that Israel was on the ground in Puerto Rico before the United States military? Why is it that we get rosy messages from "45" how well we are doing when those on the ground say it is like death? How can it be that the "leader of the free world" derides those in need rather than get serious about saving United States Citizens? This is what you people want in leadership? Is it that you also think the people or Puerto Rico just want "everything done for them"? Did you know that among supporters of "45" polling went up for support of Puerto Rico by ten-points once they were told that the people there were citizens of our nation? It is shameful...simply shameful.

Iowa National Guard

Meanwhile we're sending 300 Iowa National Guard troops to....nope, not Puerto Rico but to the far-flung reaches of Afghanistan. I wonder what 300 or 3,000 Iowa National Guard troops could do in helping save lives on that island.  You know, an island, "surrounded by water". Ocean water....  

Steak Fry

The Polk County Democrats held their first annual Polk County Democratic Steak Fry (they really don't "fry" the steaks...it's more like grilling them) yesterday. By all accounts it was a very successful event! I hear there were 1,500 tickets purchased for the event with 600 purchased by the Fred Hubbell and Nate Boulton campaigns. So, there were then 900 tickets sold to others? Maybe my math is off? It ended up being a huge success as Third District candidate hopeful Heather Ryan did not call anybody an "asshole". See, we got us some class in Polk County after all! More tickets might have been sold had the party consulted the calendar and seen that it was Yom Kippur the holiest day of the year for Jews...and a fast day. I hope to go next year.

Winning Back the Middle Class

It's a bit comical that the Democrats are perplexed by the fact that they are having trouble winning the support of the working middle class. Here's the issue. We don't actually see the working people of this nation. Let me give you an example: Last month after attending a Democratic event I was visiting with one of the young women who waited tables. Here is what she said to me, "As I'm serving water and drinks and food I hear the speeches and the people talking about saving Medicaid and Medicare. I hear them talk about improving health care and mental health care in particular. I hear them talk about food stamps and food insecurity and education and a living wage. And, then when I finish my shift and count the tips, I find that from a party of 20 people I made $8 I start to wonder if they realize I am the face of everything they are talking about..."  That, my friends, was a stunning reminder of our own failure to see the people that we are supposed to be helping. Let that one sink in for a moment.

Partly Personal

It's the first of October and, as many of you know, I am standing for election to the Windsor Heights City Council with the election being held on November 7th. That is not a long time to knock over 2,500 doors and talk about the real issues facing my community but last week I was able to top 400 of those doors over the past three weeks. I hear a bunch from the people. Depending on where I'm at in this community of 4,900 people the number one issue is trust. Trust of those in power. Oh sure I hear about sidewalks and speed cameras and streets but the underlying issue seems to be trust. "Can I trust the City of Windsor Heights to work on my, personal, best issue?" It's a good question and one that I answer at each door. While I can't promise that every decision will be the RIGHT decision on each person's list...I can promise a thoughtful and mature consideration of those issues and then attempt to build a consensus as to the benefits with understanding and empathy. See you...gotta go knock some doors!

One other thing...and I've not done this before. If you wish to support this effort I'd love to hear from you. If you feel motivated to help you can send the campaign a check...in any amount. Libbie for City Council, 2815 100th Street, #382, Urbandale, Iowa 50322 (office box address) or I'll see you on the street.

Thanks for reading and have a wonderful Sunday!   

Sunday Morning Coffee - 24 September 2017

There are days when I've got so much to share it seems like we're gong to write "War & Peace" but not to fear, we'll keep this edition of Sunday Morning Coffee short because you've got much to do. My name is Michael Libbie and each Sunday I get up...early...and jot down some of the news stories you've seen and, perhaps some that you've missed. All laced with my take. Sometimes serious sometimes fun...it's all about politics. Grab a cup and let's go!

Health Care Debate

For those of you who are thinking the latest attempt to sink the Affordable Care Act is dead...not so fast. For days the White House, McConnell and "45" have been pulling out all the stops to make this happen. Graham-Cassidy is not dead and to give up the fight to protect some 21 million people from losing their health care would be a mistake. In Iowa we know where Sen. Chuck "Death-Panel" Grassley (R-IA) stands, "Hey, it's a campaign promise that that is what is important..." and Sen. Joni Ernst (R-IA) can be expected to fall into line caring more about insurance companies and drug companies than the millions facing an even worse system. Now is the time to reach out and call your senators. Need a list?  Here you go! 

Twenty-One Million

Last week we had this story from the Brookings Institute that 21 million Americans would lose their health care coverage. That number is even HIGHER than the last attempt at sinking Obamacare and it is the first look because we don't have a CBO score yet. The GOP can't wait around for something like the facts...they are busy sticking it to you. A note about that 21 million. Brookings says that may be an "underestimate" because of the difficulty many states will have in putting together their own health care plan. This, my friends, is a disaster. Please call your senator...even if the call falls on deaf ears.

That Good Old Swamp

Once again congratulations to those of you who voted for "45" and honestly thought that he was going to change things and "drain the swamp". So silly. Over the past couple of days we've learned about the tens of thousands of dollars of tax-payers money Health & Human Services Secretary Tom Price in chartering private jets to ferry him about the country. Before that we learned that Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin wanted a government jet for his honeymoon and EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt (who hates the EPA) flies home to Oklahoma on chartered aircraft. All of these guys are worth millions and yet they are using your tax dollars to "jet about". What a lying bunch of thieves. Once again, congratulations "Swamp People" you get what you voted for.  How is all that working out for you?

Take A Knee

The "Take a Knee" campaign is, once again, heating up. This weekend Bruce Maxwell a rookie catcher for the Oakland A's took a knee during the playing of the national anthem. Maxwell is a product of a military family and said he felt that only having the NFL players take all the heat was not broad enough. Meanwhile white American's fail to understand what this is about. It is not about disrespect but it is about the lack of equality and racism that is endemic in our nation. Not sure what part of that you can not understand. Help me out? Meanwhile "45" lashes out. Clearly HE doesn't get it...do you?

Meanwhile in Iowa

While you were sleeping the Iowa Economic Development Authority offered up Tyson Foods a cool $2.4 million in incentives to expand their Waterloo processing plant. On Monday the Waterloo City Council is expected to add to that with their own gift of tax abatement, etc. And, yes, they too will roll over. Let's put this into perspective for a moment. Tyson Foods is the number one meat processor in the nation.Sales last quarter were $9.48 billion. In 2015 the company had a NET INCOME of $1.2 billion. Remember Accounting 101? Net income is AFTER expenses. But, the nice thing is that Tyson has promised to to create 245 new jobs that will pay a minimum of $17.29 an hour. Now, will Tyson hire union workers for construction? Watch this space.

Iowa Budget In the Red - Iowa GOP Celebrates

Last week we learned that Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) will remove nearly $15 million from the state's emergency fund to balance the budget and the GOP is celebrating. Why? Tax receipts came in after the books were closed for fiscal 2017 so the shortfall in income was not as drastic as what was forecast back in July. That number was $50 million short which would have, no doubt, been reason for the Governor to call a special session of the legislature. Now they don't have to do that and it is a WIN for the GOP. Of course let us not forget that this Branstad/Reynolds crowd has so mismanaged our finances and continues to offer up corporate welfare in the multi-millions that they can not afford to fund education, health care, mental health care, roads and bridges. Nice going...and this is the party of "fiscal responsibility"? Yet another lie.

Partly Personal

Today I get to hang out at the Latino Festival in the Gateway Park with friends from the Polk County Democrats. Our goal is to register voters and talk about economics, social justice, jobs and equality. Should be a great time and yes...I'll post some photos. Should be a great day to get out. Some sun, some friends and some cerveza. Shaping up to be a great Sunday!

Speaking of the Polk County Democrats last week, during a very long meeting, the body voted to allow Third District Congressional hopeful Heather Ryan to speak at the Polk County Steak Fry on Sunday the 30th. It was a contentious battle with some wanting to punish her for yelling "Asshole" at an event while others said it was not in our best interests to censor her. Polk County Chair Sean Bagniewski threatened, after the vote, that the subject was not finished and said, "Those of you who think this vote is OK better be at the Special Events Committee Meeting on Thursday because they may vote to keep all the Third District Congressional Candidates from speaking." Really? There is deep trouble in the county my friends and the Republicans are loving every minute. They are also loving it that the Dems scheduled the event on Yom Kippur...a fast day for Jews. My friend Will Rogers (former Polk County GOP Chair) would never have let that happen.

Walking, Knocking, Listening - That's what I've been doing for a couple of weeks since announcing my candidacy for the Windsor Heights City Council. I've knocked on close to 300 doors and I've been getting an ear-full. Let me offer you this, "When some distrust we all lose." It's a quote I heard the other day on NPR and it fits in this campaign. If you would like to follow along, and maybe even offer up a check to the campaign, here is my Michael Libbie for City Council BLOG. Enjoy.  But, as a taste...here's a quick video.

 

hanks for reading, watching and have a great Sunday! 

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

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

President Obama & The Left

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

Memorial Day Weekend Sales Events

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

My Friend The Sceptic

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

The Strange State of Virginia 

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

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

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

Bruce Braley & Iowa

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

Plenty Of Back-Slapping in Des Moines

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

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

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

Combined Reporting

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

Speaking of Leaving Town...

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

Jim Zabel

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

Partly Personal

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

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

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

Have a great Sunday and thanks for reading.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Politics, Religion, Gossip - SMC 03/31/13

Sunday Morning Coffee is my look at the world of politics, religion, gossip and pop culture all laced with my opinion.  My name is Michael P. Libbie and if you wish to comment here, feel free.  Or let's get together on my personal Twitter Stream @MichaelLibbie and/or my personal Facebook Page is right here.  Ready?  Let's go:

Marriage Equality & The Supreme Court

You've gotta love the House Republicans sticking to the same old song sung by many of Southern Democrats during the 1950's when the Bible and morality were used to protest against African-Americans having the opportunity to attend non-segregated schools or marry across the racial divide.  Horrors!  "The moral fabric of our nation would be torn asunder should Negros be allowed to marry Whites." That same logic is being presented to the Supreme Court as House Republicans attempt to uphold DOMA and deny equality to people who simply wish to marry and share in the same responsibilities and benefits enjoyed by the heterosexual community.  One of the cool things about being OLD is that I remember the idiocy of past generations and it is being replayed yet again.  Weary...

 

The Christian Persecution Continues

It's Easter Sunday when much of America gets to go to a church near them and celebrate their faith.  Within a mile of my home there are no fewer than 15 Christian churches. (That is IF they are all "Christian"...you see some "Christians" deny other "Christians" are "Christian"....don't ask.)  So we've got all of these "C&E (Christmas & Easter) Christians headed to church in the most free religious nation on the planet and yet (drum roll) some Christian clergy, lawmakers and activists felt obligated to hold a press conference last week and tell the world that they are being persecuted for their beliefs.  Uhm...no Tamera Scott that's ain't exactly the deal.  You are being called out for being bigots and favoring discrimination and that has zero to do with what deity you swear alliance to.  It has everything to do with the fact you detest freedom and in true Taliban fashion seek to subjugate those who do not believe in your particular "Christian" set of values.  Double weary...

But, Let's Play Golf

Recently President Obama played golf with Tiger Woods and several other folks at a "hootie-tootie" golf club.  A British Tabloid (and you know how careful they are with facts and figures) picked up the story and started the rumor that the golf outing cost US Taxpayers $1 million.  Right Wing bloggers turned the lie into fact covered by Fox News and our own News Radio 1040 WGOP.  They repeat it over and over and over.  That activity dupes poor folks like Jim Crowley of Des Moines, Iowa who takes the president to task in a Letter to the Editor of the Des Moines Register.  Friends (and Jim) change the channel it will help your future writings become a bit more creditable.

Shoot 'em Up

I'm really trying to figure out this Republican fixation about guns.  What sort of paranoid world do you people live in where you oppose mandatory background checks in order to purchase a weapon designed to kill (or shoot poor little clay pigeons)?  What sort of paranoid world do you live in where you oppose limiting magazines to 10 lethal bullets rather than 20, 25 or 30?  I know...because it is your "right".  That is pure BS and indefensible.  Here is what I think is the real reason (gleaned from various comments on my personal Facebook Page).  You fear your government.  You fear people who look different that you, worship differently than you, speak a different language or live in a different part of the city.  You are afraid and you are holding the rest of us hostage with you fantasy.  Nobody is calling for laws to take away your weapons of destruction.  We are asking for sanity dealing with an issue that plagues this nation...a nation that loves violence.  But I'm a man of great respect for the Constitution and I'll offer this compromise: That the United States Government purchase and deliver to each child born a US Citizen a flintlock longrifle, ten lead balls and a gun powder enough to fill your powder horn.  Case closed and stop being silly.  BTW here is a cool video of how a longrifle works.  You KNOW you want one...join me.

Hey, Iowa...What's Going On?

Not much.  Governor Terry Branstad (R-IA) still wishes to deny needy Iowans medical care by opposing the expansion of Medicaid and replacing it with a more costly program which covers fewer people and leaves mental illness out.  State Sen. Kent Sorenson (R-Milo) is still bat-crap-crazy.  Iowa Secretary of State Matt Schultz (R-IA) is still chasing "Zombie Voters".  And some guy by the name of Hoiberg decided he'll continue to do some basketball stuff at a cost of $20 million over ten years.  That pretty much sums up last week's news.  Oh...wait a minute.  There is one other tiny story about...business.  Mike Owen wrote an Op-Ed piece for the Des Moines Register about how Iowa LOVES to provide major corporations, who pay little to no Iowa tax, millions of dollars in "research activity credits".  More than $45 million each of the past three years.  Most of those tax dollars went to start-up companies like, Rockwell Collins, Deere & Co., DuPont, John Deere Construction and Monsanto.  Small business?  Fa-get-about-it.  It's an interesting read but, don't expect any adjustments from the legislature "business as usual" is the mantra in Des Moines.

The Vilsack Family

I love it when I'm right.  Last week three interesting things happend with my friends Tom and Christie Vilsack: 1) Christie accepted a job in Washington DC as the Senior Advisor on International Education for the United States Agency for International Development.  2) The Vilsacks are buying a home in Dallas County (next to Polk County) and 3) Tom Vilsack, when asked if he is running for governor in 2014, said, "I already have a job."  The media went nuts first by saying that because Christie took a job in DC that any idea of she or Tom running for governor was out of the question. What the media failed to grasp (sometimes it is tough) is that her job (and many others) can be accomplished remotely.  Especially when it has something to do with "international education".  The key word there kids..."international".  That's not a single room school-house in Webster County that reaches all the way to Hamilton County. (face palm)  Long ago I predicted that former Gov. Vilsack would come back to Iowa and help our state regain some sanity.  Write it down...again.  Oh, and Gov. Branstad?  If Tom Vilsack runs Terry Branstad will run.  He has to...he's the only shot the GOP would have against a well respected former governor who, by the way, loved that job too.  Giddy...

So, Have You Heard of Breastaurants'?

I know of Hooters, Twin Peaks and the Tilted Kilt but "breastaurants"?  That is the name given to these eateries which provide grub and gawks from the mostly male patrons eager, it seems, to throw down plently of cash.  Billions of dollars even during the recession.  Must be the...food.  If you would like to see the story from ABC's Nightline all you need do is...follow this link.  Mounds of fun and don't you LOVE pop-culture?

Partly Personal - Passover

Matzah here, there and everywhere.  We've been celebrating Passover since the First Seder on Monday night.  Seven matzah filled days of denying ourselves stuff made with corn, wheat, rye, soy (I know the Iowa Farm Bureau HATES us!) and something called "spelt".  I have NO idea what the hell spelt is.  Anyway, Passover is often misunderstood by folks that are not Jewish.  Like when the local Hy-Vee store put Passover items on the shelves the day before Passover.  Uhm...we start buying and preparing for Pesach weeks in advance...but I did enjoy the "slices"!  Or the folks who wish me "happy holy week".  Do they really know that it is a FULL week? I dunno... Or when the Interfaith Alliance holds a anti-violience march on Passover Eve (Sorry I wish I could have stayed longer but there was matzah-ball soup to be made.).  At the Second Seder, (on the second night of the holiday) one of our non-Jewish guests asked the honest question, "Do you folks do this every year tied back to the beginning?"  He as astounded when the answer was, "yes".  Passover is an exciting time that mixes politics and religion with great tastes, friends and family.  Oh...and "matzah everything". 

Happy Passover and for those of you celebrating Easter...all the best.  Thanks for coming by!

Politics, Sex, Opinion, News - SMC 10/30/2011

Sunday Morning Coffee is our weekly look at the world of politics, sex, news with a jolt of sarcasm and opinion.  It's a great way to start out the week.  And, if you want to connect, you may leave a comment here, head to Twitter @MichaelLibbie or my personal Facebook Page.  Easy no?  Grab a cup and...let's go!

Tattoo Barbie

Early this month the latest Barbie hit the market.  Tokidoki Barbie, named for the tattoo artist, sports exotic tattoos along with stiletto heels, pink hair and a cactus-covered pet named, 'Bastardino'.  While she is not the first "Tattoo Barbie" (Mattel in 2009 released 'Totally Stylin' Barbie' but pulled it when parents complained...loudly.) she may be the coolest.  And, priced at more than $50 and in limited quantity (7,200) the company says it's not intended for...kids.  Sure.  Another marketing hit...and just in time for Christmas!  Interesting side note:  The American Academy of Dermatology reports that 1 in 4 Americans ages 18 to 50 sport at least one tattoo.

Herman Cain - What Was He Thinking?

Everybody seems to have seen the odd political ad featuring Cain's Chief of Staff Mark Block talking up the candidate and huffing a smoke.  It's so bad...we love it!  It's the first political ad, this season, to go viral.  Folks say it matches the overall Tea Party idea of "odd".  I think so too...but the real odd thing about the video is "the smile" that comes at the end.  One word:  Creepy

 

Meanwhile, according to the latest Des Moines Register Iowa Poll Herman Cain and Mitt Romney are neck and neck here in Iowa.  This, I think, is a snapshot of how odd the Iowa Republican Party is... We've got the crazy folks and those who remember presidents that were "normal".  Let's see...we have to go back to Reagan for that one...right?  I grieve for Michele "My Gal" Bachmann, guess she wasn't as crazy as she needed to be.

Favorite Quote of the Week

"I think paying taxes is the patriotic thing to do, what we need to work on is our stewardship of the money government collects." - Desmund Adams, Iowa State Senate Candidate representing Waukee, Clive & Windsor Heights.  I like...

Night Farming - Harvest 2011

Last week we were working on some farms in Wisconsin and Illinois.  Here's a quick video of some night farming on the Steve Ruh farm near DeKalb, Illinois.

 

What a great time...thanks Steve!

Michael Libbie - What Was He Thinking?

Last week I made a daring journey.  I took Mom and our two-year old granddaughter Taylor...shopping...at the same time!  Seriously.  By the time I got to the beer & wine aisle I was asking for a "sample"...like the entire bottle with a straw.  While I would not recommend this for everybody it was a hoot and both girls were good.  What a great memory trip.

Speaking of Mom...

It's like we are living in a 'third-world country'.  For a month we have been trying to get telephone service in Urbandale.  Phone service.  Our first attempt was with Mediacom and they failed miserably.  The line would just go dead in the middle of a conversation and be out for two or three days at a time.  We had three techs come out but finally, last week, we pulled the plug on them.  Next up:  CenturyLink...you know the quys that took over from Qwest.  Now she can make calls out...but nobody can call in.  What is worse I spent 30 minutes on my cell phone trying to talk to SOMEBODY about the issue before they simply ended the call.  Never did get to a human.  I sent an e-mail only to get a return response from CenturyLink that "nobody is home" during the weekend.  Nobody is home is...right.  Sad, really sad.  No wonder that when a business offers up some mediocre service we hail it as...fantastic.

Me Like Hockey!

Last night my Bride and I went to the Des Moines Buccaneers hockey game.  The arena is close by so we walked.  What a hoot!  Didn't get a minute into the game before there was a fight.  Now we're talkin'!  And, because it was the game before Halloween the Bucs had a costume contest.  Lot's of neat ideas...  A little kid who dressed up as a skunk won.  However, I really thought "The Lamp" or at least "Charlie Sheen" and his "date" should have placed.  In the meantime...the Bucs won a 3 - 1 decision over the Tri-City Storm.  It put an end to a losing skid...they really needed that to happen.  Nice time....

Halloween 2011

That's it...gotta get ready for "Begger's Night".  What that means is getting the lawn raked.  We've got this huge, beautiful oak tree in the front yard...which means we have lots and lots of leaves.  Kids coming by this evening and need to have things cleaned up a bit.  Have a fantastic week!  Thanks for coming by... Michael