SundayMorningCoffee

Sunday Morning Coffee 12 December 2021

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

Bye, Bye Constitution

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

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

Careful what you wish for...

Gotta Brag More

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

I Hear You

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

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

What do you expect? 

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

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

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

Where Are The Workers?

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

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

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

Worker Shortage IOB SMC 12 December 2021

Partly Personal

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

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

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 25 July 2021

On a hot and humid morning like this maybe your Sunday Morning Coffee should be...iced?  Hey, thanks for coming back to this weekly bit of news and opinion post. Always grateful that you take a few minutes to indulge in this effort. Grab a cup and let's go...

Disturbing

I caught a Tweet early this morning regarding the many, many incidents where former president "45" has been accused of sexual impropriety with women and even young girls. I'll admit I've not paid much attention to all of this because once the Access Hollywood tape came out and there was zero impact on his candidacy I figured nobody cared. And, that's true. But now the links between he and Epstein and others is back in...well...the "internet news". It's disturbing that all of this buzz is happening. I think it points out how the rich and famous just seem to be able to slip past law enforcement. The "long arm of the law" gets pretty short...it would seem. (Photo - The Guardian) 

Freedumb

There are demonstrations going on in Australia, France, Germany and of course here in the United States where people are demanding freedom from mask wearing, from lockdowns and from getting the COVID19 vaccine. Meanwhile there are daily reports about physicians in various parts of the world who report they are heartbroken when, just ahead of intubating a sick patient, the patient begs for the vaccine but the doctor says, "It's too late..."

I've often thought that if COVID19 had first been infecting children rather than older folks that our national response might have been vastly different. But, then again, one can not reason with some people. That and our overwhelming desire to have everything "right now" doesn't mix with the an issue that requires a "long term" fix.  Frustrating...and scary.

Bipartisanship - Dead

I'm sure that President Biden longs for the "good old days" when Democrats and Republicans could actually sit down and hammer out solutions to problems plaguing our nation. Somebody needs to take a simple message to Joe, "Mr. President, bipartisanship is dead and no matter what you try their is no hope for resuscitation." The GOP does not want certain folks to vote. The GOP cares not one bit about good paying jobs, health care, child care, education or the fiscal welfare of our nation. Last week Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY) said so when he started saying that if the Democrats want to raise the "debt ceiling" they are going to have to stop trying to pass legislation to help America prosper.  Voting for the GOP is a fast track to destruction.

Meanwhile - Charles Booker

As long as we're visiting about Kentucky you should know about Charles Booker who has just launched his U.S. Senate campaign to kick Sen. Ron Paul (R-KY) to the curb. Booker, a former state legislator, lost a primary to an "establishment Democrat" who then was trounced by McConnell. That has been the reality of Kentucky politics for decades. Democrats, wishing to play it safe, get swept aside because they play "Republican Light". Booker is different. He is coming out of the chute with a full on progressive agenda embracing a social and economic justice message, saying: “We can make freedom mean that every community across Kentucky is thriving with good-paying union jobs. That we’re not just working to struggle less, but that we’re owning, we’re creating, we’re building pathways to wealth all over Kentucky.” I like it! (Photo: WDRB)

Meanwhile - Abby Finkenauer

Also launching a serious campaign, this one against Sen. Charles Grassley (R-IA), (Maybe...he has not indicated he is running again.) is former Congresswoman Abby Finkenauer the one-term Democrat that lost to Ashley Hinson as Republicans swept Iowa. Former president "45" won the state by 8%, and Republicans secured three of four House seats. Hinson has since hitched her wagon to "The Big Lie" among other crazy stuff.  But, remember Iowa is now a "deep red" state.  So, how is Abby going to run?  Will she take a page out of the progressive wing of the party or stick to "GOP Light"?  Finkenauer is the second Democrat to enter the race. Former Crawford County Supervisor Dave Muhlbauer announced in May. On the other side, Iowa Sen. Jim Carlin, (R-Sioux City), announced in February that he would seek the GOP nomination for the seat...that ain't going to be successful but he says he's in. (Photo - Video Announcement Still from Bleeding Heartland)

Partly Personal

Last week I got to travel to Mason City for my work with Congregation Adas Israel. What was remarkable about this trip was that new people have found us...and they are...hold on...Jewish!  One of the interesting things about Adas Israel is the number of "seekers" who come to services and our Midrash (Study Session). Folks who just want to know more about being Jewish or, perhaps, have some story in their life that might indicate a long dead relative was Jewish or people who have a desire to simply learn. That new people have found us is really a big deal. Now the work to keep them active and engaged continues.  I'm just thrilled and it shows that a bit of social media work...works.  Here is a link to the Adas Israel Blog.

As I was writing this I learned of the death of Carla Offenberger the wife of my dear friend Chuck Offenberger. While it was expected, Carla has been battling cancer for several years, it is still painful. For those who were fortunate enough to know her and for those of who were touched by her writing...she will be missed.  May her memory be a blessing. 

Thanks for reading....

Michael

Sunday Morning Coffee 6 June 2021

And, Good Morning! Grab a cup of Sunday Morning Coffee some of the political and social news you might have seen, or missed, all laced with my, usual, acerbic commentary. It's what I get to do once a week.  Let's go:

No Apology

It was a stunning piece of news. Between 1890 and 1969 some 150,000 indigenous children of Canada were forced to attend state-funded Christian schools, the majority of them run by Catholic missionaries. The idea was to subject these kids to indoctrination so they could be assimilated into Canadian society.

Recently ground penetrating radar was used to confirm the remains of 215 children at the Kamloops Residential School in British Columbia...operated by the Catholic church. For its part the Canadian government has admitted that physical and sexual abuse was rampant in the schools with children beaten for speaking their native languages and has made apologies.

Meanwhile Pope Frances, today, said it was "a sad affair" and "This sad discovery increases the awareness of the sorrows and sufferings of the past."  But, no apology for the actions of the church. 

So, the U.S. isn't the only nation guilty of such things...  Remember though "Manifest Destany"...so it must be OK.

15%

It's a big deal. Last week the G-7 met and agreed to a minimum of a 15% tax on sales and profits by corporations that are selling or located in what has been called "low tax sanctuaries". Those would include many nations in the Caribbean. In Europe the corporate tax rate is all over the board from Hungary at 9% to France at 31%. The goal here is to tax companies such as Facebook and other internet corporations who have managed to set up shop in one location or another to avoid paying up. The proposal now goes to roughly 21 other nations for approval.  The Biden Administration has wanted a higher tax rate but asked that 15% be the minimum.  

Back On Stage

Well that went...well. Former President 45 was back on stage yesterday kicking off a national tour to promote lies. (It's what he does best.) Of course, he continued to spread the "Big Lie" and give himself credit for a whole bunch of stuff that either never happened or was a major failure. Think COVID-19 reaction and "Infrastructure Week".

The amazing thing is that people still fawn over him. Look, this is not only scary but dangerous for our nation. We have seen this playbook before in 1930's Germany where the people who felt they had been given a raw deal fawned over a hateful man with crazy ideas. I suspect the former president has Mein Kampf bookmarked. No, wait...that would assume the man can read. (Image: BBC)

Those Crazy Democrats

Meanwhile it's pretty nutty in the U.S. Senate as today CBS Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV) was asked about his stand on bipartisanship. Here is what he said, "I think Senate Republicans want bipartisanship." Host John Dickerson: "Well, they haven’t shown that yet, McConnell says he’s 100% focused on blocking Biden agenda & the GOP restructuring of voting laws state-by-state is..."  Manchin: "Yeah, but I think deep-down they want it."

Denial is a river in Egypt. 

Making the Rounds...

The first announced Democrat to run against Sen. Charles Grassley (R-IA), Dave Muhlbauer is making the rounds of Polk County Neighborhood Groups. Muhlbauer, a farmer from Southwest Iowa announced his candidacy last week knows he's got to be out there early and often. An interesting side-note. Grassley who is 87 has served in the U.S. Senate since 1981 which is longer than Dave Muhlbauer has been alive.

So, there is that.

Thank You Todd Pritchard

Last week Iowa House Minority Leader Rep. Todd Pritchard (D-Charles City) announced that he was leaving that leadership position following three sessions in the minority. It was rough duty having to go up against the anti-democratic group in the majority. Imagine every day having to face people who are simply not lined up with reality. From health care to taxes to guns to education the Republicans continue to tear down this once great state.  Democrats will choose a new leader on June 14 and I have a suspicion of who that might be but keeping my thoughts quiet until she lets me know she is in the running.  Hint, hint...nudge...nudge. 

Just Being There...Works

Last week I had the opportunity to hang out with the Clive Democrats and the amazing Lila Starr who chairs that group. She and Hope Johnson, who is running for the Clive City Council, were working the booth during Food Truck Friday sponsored by the Clive Chamber of Commerce. 

This is just one of dozens of registration events going on in Polk County each week.  Are we signing folks up?  Sure. But, what is so powerful about this is simply being seen.  Letting folks know in places that had been "ruby red" for a very long time that Democrats are alive and active and working on the issues the vast majority of Iowans believe it and desire.  Change can happen we've just got to stay at it.

Partly Personal

My Bride left me on Thursday. Well, it's not really that dramatic. She and some other "ladies" went to Arkansas to go...camping. Arkansas! Camping! I have no idea where she went but it took her nearly 10 hours to get there. Due home sometime later today.  Safe travels.  BTW...for their last day of "camping" one of her new friends had a contact so they spent the final day and night at a resort...with a hot tub and all the finer things of life. No...charge.  Pretty sweet. THAT'S the kind of "camping" I could go for.

While the cat is away the (very cool) Cats will play. My brother, Yoni, came over last evening and cooked supper. I didn't have to do anything but mix the drinks. He is a wonder in the kitchen. The meal was amazing: Roasted and stuffed Portobello mushrooms, seasoned baked potatoes, stuffed and roasted onions and flank steak that had been pounded very thin, rubbed and marinated for 24 hours.

I gotta tell you...it was delightful.

We then watched a couple of episodes of The Kominsky Method featuring Alan Arkin and Michael Douglas. If you get a chance...watch. It is part comedy and part drama but it is all good. I was turned onto the series by a member of my congregation in Mason City who raved about it and said, "Oy, it is such a reminder of so many of my friends. You have got to see it!" Thanks Peter. One thing to know. If you have some reference to older Jewish men and can appreciate the humor...it is  priceless. 

Finally our son, Aaron, was over on Friday afternoon when it was 90 degrees to install a "motion detection security light" on the side of the house. Georgie wanted one and on Monday she and I attempted to put it up but...fail.  I asked Aaron to do it (he is way more handy than I and 30 years younger) and BAM!  Took him about 20 minutes. But, yes, it was hot and yes...it does work.  Thank you! 

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday!

 

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 21 February 2021

This morning it's 47 degrees warmer than last Monday...so there is...that. Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee my weekly look at the politics you may have seen, or missed, all laced with my commentary. It's what I get to start writing long before the sun comes up...and at 27 degrees...who's complaining?  Let's go!

They Really Don't Care...

It was both funny and sad. When Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) decided to abandon his duty and jet off to Mexico for a vacation, lied about why he went and then returned all "sorry and stuff" it was yet another reality check on what/who the Republican Party....is. They really don't care for you or the issues you are facing. They flat-out do not care. They don't give a damn about health care or the pandemic or struggling families. Nah, can't be bothered. It's sad that so many people still think the GOP is a party that has some sense of duty. Of course they don't keep up and are stuck thinking that somebody like Regan is in charge.  Nope...that boat has sailed...directly to Cancun.

Texas Should Secede

Not long ago the proud citizens of Texas had enough of a Black President and there were rumblings of secession going around. After all, they thought, the state had a large enough economy and "going it alone" is sort of baked into their DNA.  If you want proof of that all you need do is look the the latest man-made calamity that engulfed the Lone Star State. In 2008 power disruptions that left thousands in the dark. 2011 another cold snap that sent millions seeking shelter as the power grid, once again, failed. The federal government, thinking that they might find some responsible Texans in the GOP controlled...everything...issued some "recommendations" about winterizing their power structure.

True  to form Texas told the feds to buzz off. They knew better because, hey...they are Texans. So they doubled down and retained their proud heritage of ignoring science.  And they proudly held up the fact that Texas is the only state in the nation to not share a power grid with other states. "Take that you snowflakes!"

And then, last week the snowflakes...fell and Texas froze. Governor Greg Abbott (R-TX) was quick to point fingers at the very commission that he appoints and said the problem really lies with Rep. Alexandra Ocasio-Cortex (D-NY). You see, you don't have to be very smart to be governor of Texas...you just need somebody to blame.  Weary....

Got Popcorn?

The legal issues for the former president are starting to pile up. Investigations from New York to Georgia are happening. There is a lawsuit citing "45" with inciting an insurrection that has been filed by the NAACP and Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-MS). Which is really fun because the base of the lawsuit is what is called the Ku Klux Klan Act.  Anyway...should be a great show.

Come On Joe - Get It Together

It looks like Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV) is going to oppose President Biden's choice, Neera Tanden, to become the next head of the Office of Management and Budget. This is the same guy who said he opposed the $1.9 trillion Save America proposal because it was too costly. This really isn't about anything else but the survival of the political future of Joe Manchin.  Biden was able to beat some sense into Joe and he backed off his opposition to the Save America proposal but, because of some tweets, he is opposing the Tanden nomination. My bet is that it's political and the White House said, "Look Joe, get behind the Stimulus/COVID19 proposal and we'll let you dump on Neera." Anybody with me on that?

Just Like Mississippi Only Colder

As Iowa continues it's march to out Mississippi itself when it comes to educational attainment, family support, gun laws, abortion, LGBTQ issues, tax law and school vouchers. I could go on...but I need to get to my point. The state legislature and its governor are directly opposing the organized business community.

Let me make my point.

Let's start with the Iowa Association of Business and Industry. Their top legislative priority is: "ABI supports legislative efforts to recruit, retrain and retain talent in the state." Now, that sounds like a cool idea but what the hell is the Iowa Legislature doing to foster that climate? Oh...let's see: 

• Restrict Voting - Republicans hate it when you vote so let's screw down the process and say it is because of "voter fraud";
• School Vouchers - Let's take fund away from public schools and allow parents to pull their kids and spend state tax dollars on Catholic, Lutheran and Islamic religious schools. Oh, wait...strike that Islamic reference;
• Punish Public Schools - If the school district ignores science and opens up for all in-person education you get cash...if you don't you get punished;
• Underfund Education - This has been an ongoing problem for years and years and it's why we're losing teachers at an astonishing rate;
• Sideline Gender Identification - Nothing says "Welcome" better than bashing young people who have a gender ID different than their birth certificate. It makes our schools...safer. That should open up workforce opportunities for sure;
• Deny Choice - Look, we all understand that men know better when it comes to reproductive choice...ask them;
• Glock Love - Nothing says strength and safety more than making sure all employees are fully armed;
• Right to Be Poor - Well, this is one thing business groups really do love. The Right to Work laws that keep "The Man" in control and the worker begging for crumbs;
• Protect Intimidation - When it comes to the police make sure that they are allowed to beat and arrest as many folks of color as possible and then send them to prison so they can make furniture for the state at slave wages;
• Ignore Science - "Masks? We don't need no stinkin' masks!" Come on to the Legislature and breath on us and while you're at it please disregard that Iowa ranks last in the nation in vaccine distribution. That will impress future talent.

I know, I'm missing a few...feel free to fill in the blanks.  One of the reasons I'm even in Iowa is because of the, once, outstanding educational system the state enjoyed back in the day.  Today, my brother (the retired doctor) who has been teaching in several colleges in the Des Moines Metro, tells me that a vast majority of his students find it difficult to read, do simple math and actually string a  set of sentences into a coherent paragraph. 

Y'all is doin' a great job. Git 'er done boyz!

An Issue That Wins Back Rural Iowa

Meanwhile I was on a call last week with the Democratic Leadership of the Third Congressional District and I was struck at what brave people are doing to salvage any hope of a better life for Rural Iowans. Let's face it, the GOP has a strangle hold on rural counties. They maintain that hold using fear. Spreading lies about "illegal's" taking jobs. That only lazy people get government help. (Meanwhile 33% of the record farm income in 2020 was due to government support.) And so on...  So, what issue can win back these folks?

How about the School Voucher program?  Just like rural hospitals (which are also in trouble) public schools in these rural counties are large employers and serve as a real connection point for the population . From sports to academics rural schools are a critical bridge between parents and grandparents. But, now the Iowa Legislature wishes to siphon dollars away and give public funds to private schools. And, at last check, their ain't many private religious schools in Adar County...to name just one.

Partly Personal

Last night, after the Sabbath, my brother and I were on the phone talking about memories and synagogues. I guess it's what old Jewish men do. We were discussing the many, many synagogues that we'd visited over the years. Whenever he, or I, traveled for business (or pleasure) we both would seek out the local synagogue and attend either Friday night services or Shabbat services on Saturday morning. What a travelogue of experiences. I'm not going to list them all but such fond memories I have of the shul in Regina and Toronto. The orthodox shul in Nashville, Sherith Israel, (image) where I was so lucky to hear (and share several L'Chaim's after services) with the great Rabbi Zalman Posner z"l. The congregation in Little Rock where they were so welcoming. The shuls in St. Louis and in Kansas City and in Phoenix and of course those in Israel. I'm leaving out many.

Meanwhile my brother spoke about his shul in Odessa, Texas where he ran into Elliott Gould. His parents were patients of his. He spoke about the great teachers he has met in the U.S. and in Israel.

It was a fascinating conversation that stretched nearly two hours. The bottom line is how fortunate we are to have, and continue to have, this rich experience of learning and connection to a faith that is so diverse, enlightened and so full of life. Oh, and the people we've met along the way.  Yeah...that was cool.

Oh, one other thing. My bride bought a...truck.  Don't ask....but it is really cool as well.

Thanks for reading and have a wonderful Sunday! 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 19 April 2020

Grab a cup of Sunday Morning Coffee a mix of politics and, sometimes, a dash of religion. What could go wrong...right? Here are the news stories you have seen or, perhaps, missed all laced with my commentary. Why? I dunno it's just what I've been doing early each Sunday Morning for...years.  Let's Go!

Liberate America

I'm in. We should, at all costs, liberate America from the wackjobs. I knew this was coming weeks ago as some of my friends on the far right started in about how their "freedoms are being trampled by the police state". Oh yeah...it's real and totally predictable. Here is the next shoe to drop. It's not going to take long for several "good ol' boy" bars to start opening and that will create a powder keg of trouble. If you're not tuned into what these people talk about...it's scary. Right now, today there are Tweets being put out that call for armed resistance. For example take a gander at this screen shot. 

The author, Matt Couch, says in his profile: "Christian, Father of 2, Investigator, FounderThe DC Patriot & America First Media"  And, there are many, many more just like him.

Christian

Which brings up this: Over the years I've noticed that the vast majority of individuals who self identify in their social media profiles as "Christian" seem to be anything but. Maybe I'm missing something in the doctrine but being mean, spiteful and bigoted are not words that one might equate to "Christian".  But, what do I know....

Best Caption

Meanwhile the best caption I saw for this image was, "A group of men protest being told what to do with their bodies".

Fits...right?

The Photo

You may have seen this photo being shared on social media. The photo is real but the caption is misleading. Many have reported this image to be from the GOP endorsed demonstration in Michigan last week. It's not. The image is actually from Bosie, Idaho and was taken as supporters of the president staged a counter demonstration against Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) who was there for a rally. Just trying to stay real. If you want to read the story here is a link to Snopes.

But, it would seem birds of a feather...yes? 

USS Theodore Roosevelt 

We've all heard about how the captain was dismissed and the dust-up that followed but something that you may have missed. While there are well over 600 crew members who have tested positive for COVID-19 the majority of them are asymptomatic. Underscoring the issue that people with the virus, who feel just fine, can spread it. Which is why, my "Liberate" friends, we are being told to hunker down.

Meanwhile there are reports that Capt. Brett Crozier may be returning to duty aboard the USS Theodore Roosevelt. That according to the New York Times.

Drawing Lines

There are difficulties in "drawing lines in the sand". The main problem is that sand can be rather "fluid". Ya draw a line in the sand and the wind blows or the water reaches it and "poof" it's gone.

Governor Kim Reynolds (R-IA) is learning this lesson one line at a time.  Each time she draws a line in the sand when it comes to the COVID-19 outbreak in Iowa the line gets moved or erased. That's not leadership...it's just drawing lines. OK, I know, many of you think she is doing a wonderful job at her line drawing but, rather than misleading the public maybe she should just tell the truth. Flirting with re-opening our society and failing to call for more stringent regulations is pure politics. Maybe she's angling for a White House run?  After all the GOP did give us Sarah Palin.

Partly Personal

Sorry, but you're only getting half-a-cup of Sunday Morning Coffee this week. I've got a list as long as my bride's arm of stuff to do today. While she may still be sleeping I'm making lists.  But first a couple of observations.

Recently I went out to a couple of grocery stores. I was struck by how different Aldi is treating customers how HyVee is treating the pandemic. At Aldi they have two people, outside, cleaning grocery carts and then counting the people going into the store. Once inside there is a person greeting shoppers and reminding them to stay travel in only one direction, stay at least eight feet away from the other shoppers and if you miss a product you wanted to purchase don't "backtrack" but ask an employee to go and get the item you want.

Meanwhile HyVee is also cleaning carts but and directing traffic but its much more haphazard. People are not really paying attention to the "One Way" signs on the floor...or so it seemed.  I get it that the typical HyVee store is so much larger than Aldi and this isn't a dig...just an observation.

It's coming up on "Yard Sign" time. Getting some Libbie for Iowa signs out and thank you to the folks who have volunteered their space. I really appreciate it.  And, if you want more about the campaign for the Iowa State Senate head over to my website LibbieForIowa.com and have a look. And, if you can...I would welcome any donation to the cause.

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 18 August 2019

It's the final day of the Iowa State Fair where, according to the count of corn kernels placed in mason jars outside the local NBC affiliate the current occupant of the White House has an approval of 49.2%. Within striking distance of a lock on a second term. Just in case you've run out of stuff to worry about. Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee! You know what we do here so...let's go!

"It's Like a Fire Hose!"

Those are the words to describe the political news cycle. "45" and his gang of swamp-dwellers feed us so much crap that it's hard to keep up and make no mistake this is a thought out strategy. If you drown people in wacky stuff 24/7 enough people will believe some of the lies (just enough) and others will tune it out.

Already I've seen this among some pretty well informed people who have told me, "I'm out. The news is way to depressing. The lies and the hate and the trampling of the Office of President is more than I can take. I just don't watch, read or listen much anymore and my life is much happier."

Have you ever read "Mein Kampf"? Perhaps you should...it is a blue-print for much of what we see today.

(Photo Credit - Scot Duke Marketing)

The Ultimate Hypocrisy

Last week "45" traveled to Pennsylvania for, what was supposed to be, a major policy address on jobs. It was really just another campaign rally that more resembled the 1940 Rheinmetall-Borsig Works Speech where the then leader of Germany attacked everybody from the media to his political opponents and laid blame of the Second World War on the British. Oh...the lies.

Seems that workers at the Royal Dutch Shell petrochemical plant were told to show up and if they didn't attend they had to use paid time off or go without pay. A memo obtained by CNN from a worker laid out the issue. Of course Shell is denying that. The White House has no  comment but this is what was said by the Union: "This is just what Shell wanted to do, and we went along with it," Ken Broadbent, business manager for Steamfitters Local 449. (Photo Credit - Daily Sound)

So the guy who leads the party that has made every effort to strangle organized labor gets labor to say, "...we went along with it". Where is the guts?

BTW this plant does employ lots of people....and when they are finished with the construction the giant factory will turn out tons and tons of...wait for it...PLASTIC. Just exactly what we need.

Remember: Money Talks - Principal Takes a Back-Seat.

Wind and Cancer

Last week Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA), a day after she was at the Iowa State Fair touting wind energy, told the media that she needed time to gather together, "...stakeholders to take that information and then try to confirm or deny or whatever we need to do with it going forward.” 

She was talking about the Madison County (Iowa) Board of Supervisors who swallowed, in total, the fraud sputed by "45" that windmills cause cancer. Earlier this year Reynolds declined to say that "45" was wrong. Meanwhile Sen. Charles Grassley (R-IA) said the president's statement was "idiotic".  Well, there is that.

Speaking of Energy

As you know farmers LOVE "45". They voted in massive numbers to elect the man who has been called the "most dishonest person ever to occupy the office" given his passion for lying about nearly everything. Now what is so interesting to watch is how this president has "played" our friends in agriculture. Just this week the administration more wavers to oil companies to avoid blending billions of gallons of ethanol into their products. (Photo Credit - Washington Examiner)

The wavers were to have been directed to small oil refineries however "45" and his cronies in the EPA have been granting massive numbers of exemptions to large companies which will contribute, even more, to the hollowing out of Rural Iowa. Farmers are already under pressure from the tit-for-tat trade war with China and by China finding other sources for communities. This is just another knife in the back. You can not trust...ONE WORD.

Hates Puppies

I think it is important for you to know that Chuck Schneider (R-WDM) the current president of the Iowa State Senate refused to allow a bill that would protect companion animals to come up for a vote in the Iowa Senate. Why does Chuck hate puppies? I dunno...maybe because his "minders" have some sort of twisted logic that dogs and cats are somehow tied to pigs and cattle? This is a photo of our rescue dog, Yofi, who had boiling water poured on her when she was just 8 weeks old. That's why no hair on one side of her body and a lack of an ear...yeah...that. 

The GOP loves to use the "slippery slope" argument. You know, "If we allow the government to mandate seat-belts it's a slippery slope to other regulations that will cause  automakers to go out of business." Yeah...that logic. And I was there...from Detroit...remember?

It's this sort of "logic" that is so out of touch with the values of Iowans. Just like Jake Chapman (R-Adel) representing Senate District 10 out of Adel, Iowa who never met a gun he didn't love even though the vast amount of people in our state want to see some restrictions.

From hating puppies, education and working families to loving guns this crowd has got to go. They do not represent us.

Voting...matters.

Partly Personal

I was at a couple of political events this past week. There was a fund-raiser with the Southeast Polk County Democrats in Waukee, the selection process of which 2020 hopeful to support going forward for the Asian Latino Coalition...Congratulations Sen. Kamala Harris (D-CA), the West Des Moines Democrats monthly meeting, the fund raiser for Congresswoman Cindy Axne (D-IA) the Clive Democrats monthly meeting, the Urbandale Democrats Fearless Fighter Women's Award Event and another presidential town hall last evening for 2020 hopeful Admiral Joe Sestak which was held at Fox Brewery in West Des Moines.

It's what one does I guess....I don't play golf.

My friend Jerry Uhlman who travels to nearly every Democratic Event in Polk County took this photo of our eleven year-old granddaughter Jovie as she was listening to Admiral Sestak. She is not only a beautiful young lady her heart is also full of love. Thank you Jerry!

When people ask me why I would run for the Iowa State Senate and put myself out there...this is the reason. It is all about making sure families...all families...have a shot at a better life. If we, as a state, don't start to put families first we'll continue to see a decline in our our values. That has got to stop.

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday and final day of the Iowa State Fair!   

Sunday Morning Coffee 21 April 2019

For those of you celebrating your religious holiday today may you have a Happy Passover and a Happy Easter. The fact that the two holidays are happening on the same weekend is rare but not without president. What it may do is call more attention to the fact of the linkage of the two holidays. But, you didn't come here for that...let's go.

Your Dues is Due

Speaking of faith, the United Methodist Church is going through a dues issue. According to the Associated Press dues collection by the UMC is down this year by about 20%. Reason?  The recent flap regarding LGBTQ individuals being banned from serving the church has some of the more liberal congregations withholding their support. In the same report the AP discloses that when the vote was taken the ban won by a vote of the delegates 438-384. However the U.S. delegates overwhelmingly voted against the ban but when votes came in from Africa and the Philippines it was enough to enact. It would seem that, perhaps, the church is headed toward a split much like what happened with the Lutherans several years ago...over the same issue. (Photo UMC Church Fort Collins, CO - The Coloradoan)

The Mueller Report

Not much more can be written about this that has not already been done by hundreds of pundits. Smoking gun? Nope. Wack job in the White House. Yep...but we already knew that. What is troubling is how far Attorney General William Barr has gone to be, not the attorney for the American people but the attorney for "45". We now know that the four page "summary" was an attempt to provide cover to the president and was inaccurate and misleading on many fronts. Of course now that Rep. Jerry Nadler (D-NY) has issued a congressional subpoena for the unredacted report we'll see how this plays out. But, I wouldn't expect Barr to cooperate. More likely we'll see more stalling.

What Is Next

If I were running a campaign I wouldn't bring up the president unless asked and then only respond in an oblique way. Why? I'm convinced that the vast majority of Americans are weary of focusing on this man and that by doing so we miss the opportunity to hammer home on those "kitchen table" issues that impact their lives. So, what are they? Let's go:

Health Care

There is not a hotter topic among businesses and families than the current broken and obscene health care system in this country. Small businesses, and even some larger ones, are getting hammered by 15 to 24 percent increases in health care insurance rates every year. It is not sustainable...period. I don't care if you work in a cubicle or on the farm you realize you are one medical bill away from poverty. That is not how it should be in this country.

Let me share with you just how obscene our current system is. Last week David Wichman the CEO of UnitedHealth Care, which insures some 49 million Americans, said that Medicare for All would "disrupt the health care system and provide major increases in costs without providing more care to American families". No, really, the guy that last year had a compensation package of $17.3 million actually said that. And, know what? Health care STOCKS lost about $29 billion in value over the next two days because investors are getting the hint that our current system is unsustainable and are bailing.

I want you to think about that for a moment. Publicly traded companies exist for the sole purpose of returning a profit to investors. That your health care insurance company cares more about its investors than your health is obscene. $29 billion would go a very long way toward fixing what is broken..

Education

Democrats need to take this seriously and hammer it home day after day after day. The GOP has gutted educational spending in every state they control and now the focus is on diverting tax dollars to private religious or for-profit schools. I have no problem if you want to send your kid to the religious school be it Catholic, Protestant, Islamic or Jewish but you should pay for it...not the American people. Democrats must return to solutions that end the pain of school loans that burden people for decades without being able to negotiate rates while also holding up the Trade Unions and their excellent programs that provide training in jobs that actually pay better than many that require a Bachelor's Degree.

Living Wage & Collective Bargaining

Enough killing off working families with law that allow states to be "Right to Work". It is corporate slavery and it is wrong. For three weeks I have asked you to defend your view that people should not be paid a living wage or be allowed to join unions and collectively bargain for wages and benefits and try to square that with the teachings of your church. Not one of my conservative friends care to debate this issue because they know they are wrong. When more people make more money they will spend it and that will lift the economy of everyone. It ain't that hard.

Equal Pay - Equal Work

This, too, isn't hard and most Americans believe that if you put in a day of work you should be paid equally be you a woman, man, black white or green. Enough of subjecting non-white males to lower pay just because you can. Americans know what is fair and what is not and the system that pays others a fraction of white men is just plain wrong.

Voting Rights

This one really pisses me off. One of the political parties in the United States tries everything they can to suppress the vote and it is happening right in front of your eyes. Americans don't approve. It doesn't matter if you live in Elkader, Iowa or Los Angeles, California the people smell the rottenness of voter suppression and they need to be assured their vote matters.

Reproductive Rights

I get it and so do you. When a bunch of men make rules about what a woman can or can not do when it comes to health care is like slave owners telling their property what they can and can not do. Most people believe these are issues that are best left to the people who are impacted at the moment. Do I support choice. Yes. Would I counsel my daughter to, at all costs, avoid an abortion. Yes. But in the end that decision is not mine.

What Doesn't Play Well

This is going to upset some folks but there is an issue that doesn't play well. That is the question of guns. The Democrats are never, never going to swing that argument in rural parts of the country especially if the focus of the issue is banning. However most Americans, rural to urban, think that sensible gun laws like background checks, insurance policies and keeping firearms out of the hands of unstable individuals makes sense. I'd leave it at that. Oh, one more thing. Know why some uphold the whole gun debate and cling to the Second Amendment? The firearms industry is a $52 billion business. Now you know.

Partly Personal

It's been "lotsa matzah" over the past couple of days. Friday night our family Seder lasted well into the late night. Last night I was honored to lead a Community Seder for the Jewish Congregation of Adas Israel in Mason City where about fifty people came to experience the Passover. As always, there were many who had never been to a Seder and I hope they came away from the three hour service with a better understanding of their faith as well as mine. There is great responsibility when it comes to teaching and when you add religion to the mix it becomes even more important to be as clear as possible.  It was a good night.

Political gossip is that Rep. Linda Upmeyer (R-Clear Lake) may be leaving the Iowa Legislature. The story is that she has accepted a big-time job with a right-wing organization and will spend her time lobbying at the Statehouse. Stay tuned. 

Thanks for reading and have a fantastic Sunday.   

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 24 March 2019

And, a GOOD Sunday Morning to YOU.  Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee my weekly political news blog that also gets my commentary thrown in. It's what I do...

"He's Not Worth It"

Four words that, no doubt, will drive "45" over the top. Last week House Speaker Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) said those words when asked about the House bringing Articles of Impeachment against the current occupant of the White House. She said that it was way too deviseve for the nation and besides, "He's just not worth it". To a person who thinks and acts the way our narcissistic president thinks and acts what a major "clap-back". Ya gotta love it.  He's not worth it....

The Report Is In

The nation held its collective breath on Friday as Robert Mueller delivered his report to the Justice Department. For nearly two years the special prosecutor has been turning over stones regarding the involvement of Russia in the 2016 election. Now Attorney General Robert Barr will have a look and decide what you and I can see. Meanwhile, without knowing what is in the report Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA) is calling for the report to be released in its entirety because without doing so the nation will be left to wonder and the conspiracy theories will roll like the high-tide in Nebraska.

The Silence Was Deafening

This morning "45" ended his self-imposed 40 hour Twitter silence and tweeted out his campaign slogan and wished his followers a "great day". It was the first tweet since the Mueller report was delivered Friday. But, we can understand he was attending to important business at his resort in Florida. Golfing with Kid Rock is mighty heavy stuff.

New York, New York

Now the focus will shift to, what could be more damage to "45", as New York rolls through it's case against the president, his family, his business. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York (SDNY) is reportedly already carrying out a series of probes related to the president, including efforts focused on Trump's inaugural committee.

It is also overseeing an investigation into potential campaign finance violations tied to the president.

Trump and his allies are well aware of the investigations and the dangers of the New York prosecutors. Why, they are ruthless when it comes to sniffing out crime from mob bosses to celebrities. Then, of course, we've also got Virginia and D.C. cases to attend to.

You elect a crook...this is what you get.

Meanwhile in New Zealand

It's becoming more and more clear that New Zealand is topping the United States when it comes to being civilized. Today over 10,000 people attended a rally to mourn the 50 victims who were gunned down last week. Many women came with headscarves to show solidarity with Muslim women after the hashtag #HeadScarfForHarmony hit social media last week.

In the span of one week the leader of New Zealand didn't offer empty "thoughts and prayers" she went to work getting a ban on assault weapons, large capacity magazines and a host of other gun control measures. Of course those of you who are in love with your guns will note that in New Zealand, unlike in the United States, having a firearm is already regulated. To get a firearm there you must apply, have witnesses stand up for you and be willing to forfeit your weapon should you run counter to the law.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern also said a national remembrance service for the victims is scheduled for March 29. Meanwhile over 20,000 signatures have been gathered in support of her receiving the Nobel Peace Prize for her actions in the wake of the tragedy.

AIPAC

Today the annual policy conference of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) kicks off in Washington, D.C. and many Democrats are twisting themselves into pretzels trying to support but condemn the Jewish state. Some of the 2020 presidential contenders are skipping the event in the hope we'll forget all about them turning their back on the only democracy in the Middle East. Some are suggesting that if we show any allegiance to Israel it is somehow a crime. 

What horseshit.

I get it... and I'm about to lose my Liberal Card but here's the deal. If Iowa were surrounded by states that hate us (well, maybe that's not such a stretch) and were committed to the destruction of all three million of us what position might you take? Play "Iowa nice" as terrorists from Minnesota cross the border into Lansing and blow up the Methodist Church. (I know they have their own issues these days, right?)

No, you hate Israel because Bibi has a bromance with "45" and moved the embassy to Jerusalem and ended the Iran deal and...oh my goodness...moved to recognize Israels right to annex the Golan Heights. And you do that from the comfort of your Iowa Nice living room without a care. Please...

What is worse is that some of my liberal Jewish friends seem to swallow this anti AIPAC crap forgetting their brothers and sisters living in Israel have a target on their back. You want to debate this issue?  I can do it all day long. Rather than attack Israel why not demand that your Arab friends, who teach hate and destruction say, "We recognize that the State of Israel has a right to exist in peace."

If that were to happen, rather than rockets being fired into Ashkelon or people being run over on the streets or knifed in the back as they walk to synagogue we would have peace. But, hey, Jews are a much easier target...always have been.

Well, there goes the "Liberal Card"...

Privilege?

I'm going to share a story that I was told by the family of a young woman at the center of this tale:

A woman was driving the fifteen miles home from work with her six-month old child in the car seat. Not paying attention, she was stopped by a police officer for doing 86 mph in a 65 mph zone. The officer asked for her license (she didn't have it) her vehicle registration (she didn't have it) and her proof of insurance (nope, didn't have it).

Know what happened?

She got a ticket for going 5 mph over the speed limit. No citation for anything else, no arrest for child endangerment...nada.

I failed to mention the young mother is white. Imagine, for just a moment, if a person of color were driving that vehicle.

I rest my case.

Partly Personal

Last week the Festival of Purim was held (The Book of Esther) on the same day as the Hindu Festival of Holi. Both events are rooted in the notion of good and G-d triumphing over the darkness of evil.

I was discussing the similarities with my Hindu friend, Dinesh and asked him a personal question about prayer. "Dinesh, when you pray do you place a bindi (red dot) on your forehead?" I think he may have been surprised that I would ask the question but even more surprised that I knew about the adornment. (Thank you Parkash for the lesson!) He said, "Sometimes, but I take if off when in public because, well, because, I live in Iowa and people think it's odd. Besides, my dark skin and my accent is already different so I try to blend in as much as possible."

I get it. Fitting in is important. I remember when I wore a Kippah (yarmulke) and Tzitzit (fringes) in public...in Iowa...how some folks reacted. In New York, Miami or Israel...no big deal. But here it's a little odd. But what it does do is allow people to ask the question and that can be a teachable moment. It's how we can learn about each other. 

Have a fantastic Sunday and thanks for reading. 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee - St. Patrick's Day Edition

I was sitting with a friend yesterday, who happens to be Irish, and asked him what he was doing at this business meeting rather than attending the St. Patrick's Day Parade in Des Moines. He said, as he tipped back a Guinness,"Those are for people who want to be Irish." I'll take it and welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee. Inside are some of the political/social issues you may have seen or, perhaps missed, but all laced with my commentary. Because? It's what I get to do before the sun comes up on Sunday. Let's go!

Our Culture of Hate

Descending into barbarism is easy. One barbaric act is followed, a few years later, by another and then another. Society is horrified for a moment and then we go back to our lives without taking any action. The places of terror become history and "thoughts and prayers" become forgotten because they are meaningless words.

Apologists will tell you that we have always been this way and dismiss the culture of hate with, "Now, because we have so much media attention, we're all just more aware."

We take that lipid response at its face value and we do...nothing.

We live with hate-mongers and "dog whistles" that call those barbarians to action. 

And, we do nothing.

Perhaps we are doomed or perhaps it is time to, as Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.) said yesterday, "It is not enough for one to proclaim he or she is not a racist. It is time that we become anti-racists." 

Maybe that is a start.

New Zealand

In the wake of the murder of 50 people at two mosques the Prime Minister of New Zealand took action demanding that the gun laws in her nation change and is moving forward with a plan to outlaw, buyback semi-automatic weapons. There, unlike in the United States, government officials are, at least, talking about what would be unthinkable here. 

The shooter in Christchurch could not purchase his weapons of mass destruction in his home country of Australia. That nation banned many firearms following a mass killing in 1996. Australia further tightened gun restrictions several years later and the result has been impressive. For that report, feel free to click here.  No, the terrorist purchased his firearms in New Zealand. He had a gun license acquired in November 2017 and carried out the killings with two semi-automatic weapons, two shotguns and a lever-action firearm.

Now New Zealand has decided it will take action. Meanwhile, here in the United States, we will offer "thoughts and prayers".

The Constitution

I have friends, mostly on the Right, who once carried around with them miniature booklets of the United States Constitution. It became quite fashionable back in the day along with Gadsden flags and oversize lapel pins.

Today my friends have, clearly, misplaced their treasured booklets or choose to ignore those hallowed words.  How do we know?

Both Sen. Charles Grassley (R-IA) and Sen. Joni Ernst (R-IA) voted to allow "45" to trash the separation of powers and vote against a resolution to deny siphoning off billions of dollars from congressional appropriated funds to build a wall at our southern border.

Astounding isn't it? These self proclaimed "Champions of Constitutional Law" decided it was too tough to stand up to "45" so they caved. What proud and bold leadership we have in the United States Senate.

Closed Door Meetings

Meanwhile there was a big meeting last week in Des Moines as Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos and Governor Kim Reynolds (R-IA) huddled with folks that hold great disdain for public education and wish to take your tax dollars and shovel them to folks who want to enrol their kids in religious or for-profit schools. Ms. DeVos flew in to salvage the plan that had seemed to have been sidelined in recent weeks. For a list of attendees feel free to click over to Progress Iowa.

Nobody Cares

Iowa is in trouble and nobody cares. For those of you living in "The Burbs" with a Whole Foods or Trader Joe's around the corner I know you don't think much about this. "This" is Rural Iowa. Following six years of debilitating commodity prices and now a self imposed trade war that has China buying soybeans from Brazil our rural brothers and sisters are...starving. The other day a supporter of the trade war was on Iowa Public Radio saying, "We're going to get a better deal so we need to stand with the president. Take a little pain now for something much better in the future." 

No, he really said that.

I've been writing about the "Crumbs from the Table" phononomim for years. This is when starving serfs would fight each other for the crumbs that would fall from their masters table. They continued to support their master while they fought among themselves for...the crumbs.

Consider the reality: 

• Bankruptcies in the Midwest are up 98% in the past two years;
• Loan officers are demanding more collateral for farm loans;
• Last year Wisconsin lost over 7% of their family owned dairies;
• The suicide rate in Iowa is up 38% year over year.

Yet in a recent Iowa Poll much of the rural community say they continue to support the efforts of the GOP. Meanwhile the true answer to reversing those horrible numbers come in the wake of progressive public policy espoused by the Democrats.

But, it seems, crumbs digest...better.

The Media & Questions

I was at the Iowa Asian Latino Coalition reception for Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.) yesterday morning where spoke to a packed room at the Iowa Capital. The senator is on a multi-day swing through Iowa to bolster his presidential campaign. I have now seen him, in person, three times in five months. Not as a supporter but as a media person reporting on the business aspect of each of the candidates or those seeking to run. So far I've racked up interviews with Sen. Kamala Harris (D-CA), Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), former Congressman John Delaney (D-MD), businessman Andrew Yang and New York Mayor Bill de Blasio (D-NY).  As well as some who have decided not to move forward with a campaign like L.A. Mayor Eric Garcetti, "Move to Impeach" Tom Steyer and former Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack.

Here is something that I've noticed. Everybody shows up for the event. ABC, CBS, NBC, CNN, Radio Iowa....the various newspapers. the list gets pretty long. The candidate, like yesterday with Booker, gets to the event, speaks and once the event is done most, if not all, of the reporters leave. Mind you, they all heard the same words. They all have the same video but few stick around to ask follow up questions.

I get it. No, really. Usually the candidate is busy having photos taken, doing selfies, answering voter questions and that all takes time.  It's agony to wait around until the crowd thins out and then, if there is not a "media gagle" where we all have access to the candidate, reporters just...leave. Missing out on the opportunity to have the candidate explain things he or she said.

Me? I stick around. Yesterday that paid off and I was able to ask Senator Booker a couple of questions even if we had to "walk and talk". I don't have the time this morning to edit that piece but it will be up later this week on the Business News Hour and has to do with agriculture and the constitutional issue of providing for the safety of Americans.  Sorry for the tease but I gotta get this out. (Photo - Brian Powers - Des Moines Register) 

Partly Personal 

This afternoon at 3pm there will be a gathering at the First Christian Church, 2500 University, Ave in Des Moines. In the press release from the Iowa Interfaith Alliance it is being called, We Stand Together with the Muslim Community and Against Hate. Expect speeches from many area religious leaders including, "..calls to action in how we must address hate, bigotry, and violence together."

If you are so moved...see you there.

It is a bit ironic that we're doing this just days ahead of the Jewish Festival of Purim. Which you can read about in the Book of Esther. It was yet another attempt where a majority culture made plans to annihilate the minority culture. Worth a read.

Yesterday was the first statewide meeting of a group known as Podcast Iowa. It is part of a network of podcasters from across the country. There are now 10 states that boast of such a group and it's rapidly expanding. More to some on that in the newscast this week but it's a media reality that is sweeping not only the United States but the world. And, media companies are taking notice.

We went shopping the other say at a second hand clothing store. My grand-daughter, Jovie loves, loves, loves The Dollar Store and second hand clothing stores. Mostly because she can buy stuff on her own. Jovie and her Mom have lived with us for the past three plus years and have recently moved to a place of their own. 

Anyway I look at these times as filling a void for a male role model in her life and it's more than fun.

Thought you might get a kick out of this photo of our 10 year-old "model" trying on a jacket.  Ya gotta love it...

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday.