SundayMorningCoffee

Sunday Morning Coffee 25 February 2024

Good Sunday Morning to you and welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee my weekly bit of news you love or love to hate. Before I share some remarkable news about President Biden and his accomplishments during his first term I've got a question, "Why does Iowa hate folks with disabilities?".

Early this morning I read a shocking story in the Des Moines Register authored by Rep. Josh Turek (D-Council Bluffs) about the abysmal record the Governor and the Iowa Legislature have when it comes to caring for the 15% of Iowans who are disabled. (If you want to do that math that means roughly 465,000 Iowans are disabled.) Josh should know a thing or two about being disabled as he is wheelchair bound and has been for years. He is also the only permanently disabled person in the Iowa Legislature. Some highlights:

• The Home and Community Based Services Medicaid waitlist grows by 1,000 people each year and is one of the longest in the country;
• Folks with intellectual disabilities are on a six-year waitlist plus an additional 14 months to qualify. These are people who need services such as personal care, food preparation and home modification. Who, while they wait, must go without or pay out of pocket;
• Median earnings for Iowa's disabled workers rank 47th out of 50 states largely due to the state's harsh Medicaid restrictions;
• Medicaid is severely limited in earnings to poverty and limited to $12,000 in total assets or $13,000 if married;
• "Iowa keeps our disabled in poverty and unemployed.";
• Defunding the AEA will keep services from children with disabilities and special education needs;
• "Last year Republicans  passed a bill to make it more difficult to receive SNAP food benefits. 46.7% of those on SNAP in Iowa have a disabled member in the household";
• The denial rate for wheelchairs and medical services has increased by 850% since the privatization of health care in Iowa.

He ends with, "Clearly the condition of the state for the disabled in Iowa is terrible. And until the focus in Iowa becomes on helping people instead of politics or profits, it will not improve!"

Chew on that with your toast and eggs this morning....

President Joe Biden

Meanwhile, President Biden has been working in support of the American People with policies and programs that actually make the lives of our people...better.  Consider:

He stopped a 30-year streak of federal inaction on gun violence by signing the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act that created enhanced background checks, closed the “boyfriend” loophole, and provided funds for youth mental health.

Joe made a $369 billion investment in climate change, the largest in American history, through the inflation Reduction Act of 2022.

And, yes, President Biden ended the longest war in American history by pulling the troops out of Afghanistan.

So, the next time somebody says, "Gosh, I'm not sure what this president has done for America.." Remind them that he truly is the best  president in our recent memory when it comes to getting stuff...done!

Enjoy your Sunday and keep the pressure on...

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 20 March 2022

I know you've got stuff to do and appreciate that you take a few minutes to check out Sunday Morning Coffee my weekly commentary on politics, business and the occasional bit about religion...just to spice things up.  The past week has been a whirlwind of activity with continued geo-political stress taking center stage.  Let's go:

Ukraine 

I really thought that after the 2020 election I wouldn't be reaching for my phone every morning before getting out of bed. For the four years the mad-man was in office it was like a never ending bad dream. Each morning I'd have to check what the lies the guy was spewing or tweeting. But then COVID-19 and now Ukraine. Not a break. 

Things in Ukraine, as of this morning, are dire as the city of Mariupol is not only surrounded but there is fighting going on in the streets. The invading army of Russia continues to target civilians while denying their murders. Are we doing enough? I don't know but the world seems to have come to its senses regarding our dealings with the killer, Putin.  Let us never forget.

Still In Russia

There are a number of businesses still doing business in Russia. While many have left and closed their facilities, further isolating the Russian economy these companies remain using the excuse that closing down would hurt innocent Russians. What...BS. Look what the Russian military is doing to the innocent Ukrainians.

The LA Times is reporting that among the consumer companies identified as staying in Russia are the fast-food chain Subway; Reebok; Bacardi (maker of rum, Dewar's Scotch and Grey Goose vodka, among other brands); the electronics companies LG and Asus; and Natura, owner of Avon cosmetics.  McDonald’s is still there so too is Burger King.

Koch Industries, which is known for its support of far-right politicians in the U.S. says it’s subsidiary, Guardian Industries that employees 600 workers at two glass factories in Russia…is staying put.

Just so you know.

St. Patrick's Day and Purim

I'd never been to a Des Moines St. Patrick's Day Parade and really had not planned on attending this past Thursday. It was, after all, Purim. But got a message that the Polk County Democrats needed a truck to haul the trailer with Daisy on top. So at 11PM on Wednesday night I got the approval of my bride to take her truck and what a day.

And, because it was Purim I sort of felt like it worked out...and was able to wear my green kippah. The neat thing about the parade was that so many in the crowd were cheering us on.  Not one heckler did I hear.  Anyway...it was great to "represent" and thanks for the opportunity.

The Race for Governor

Early this morning I was scrolling through my Facebook Feed and noticed several posts bemoaning the fact that one or two (un-named) Democrats had turned down the opportunity to run. One person wrote, "What are we going to do? Somebody needs to run!"

Uh...we DO have a candidate in this race and she is running a fantastic campaign. Diedre DeJear is...everywhere and she is speaking truth to power and she is articulating a solid message that resonates with working families, rural folks, urban people and even business. Yesterday I heard Sen. Claire Celsi (D-WDM) speak on her behalf. It was a passionate call to get out and support our candidate. I would ask you to do the same. Join me in chipping in what you can to Diedre.  You can do that here.

Meanwhile Momentum is Moving

If you asked me two months ago who would be the Democrat to take on Sen. Charles Grassley (R-IA) in November I would have suggested it would be a tossup. However I can sense victory is in the air for Admiral Mike Franken. He too is everywhere. His campaign staff has re-organized and there is measurable excitement among supporters, staff and even those who are, for the first time, meeting him.

Look, in these troubled geo-political times we need experienced leadership that has been on the front lines of critical decisions. Mike is not a career politician but a tested and wise leader. If you've not yet chipped in to his campaign you can do that here. 

Admiral Franken is the real deal,. He resonates with folks all across the state. Taking out Chuck Grassley is job one...and with your help it's game on!  The photo is from my friend Julie Gammack who was with Admiral Franken in Pocahontas at the Aspen Leaf Café.

Supervisor Matt McCoy

Last week I sat down for over an hour to visit with Polk County Supervisor Matt McCoy.  It was enlightening. Much has been written about the toxic environment swirling around Polk County Leadership and I asked the tough questions. Not the hearsay stuff folks like to talk about the the facts to a case that may someday go to trial. I came away from that meeting believing that "change" is not something many county supervisors want to talk about.  Because of that Matt has been...sidelined. 

He recently picked up Windsor Heights in his district and he will be speaking to the Windsor Heights Democrats yet this month. I'm looking forward to having so many more people hear the story. 

Did You Know?

OK, I'm about to share something with you I found appalling. Until yesterday I had no idea that folks who are sent to jail in Polk County pay for their time behind bars. Now while that may sound like just the "law and order" system we need let's take a deeper dive. Let's say you are picked up for some infraction. Maybe it's pot possession or perhaps a drunk and disorderly charge and the decision is to hold you in jail and because you work paycheck to paycheck you can't make bail or perhaps they just don't want to issue bail.

The first day you are in jail it costs you $75. Each day after that it's $60. So, if you're in the pokey for a week pre-trial you owe $435. But, now you've lost your job because your employer fired you for not showing up.  Worse than that you are now "in the system" a system that sends more and more poor people to jail or to prison. 

I think we need to really look at what we're doing and how it impacts so many people. There has got to be a better way.  And, that is why I'm supporting Kimberly Graham for Polk County Attorney. With over 20 years as a defense attorney she has seen the criminal justice system from both sides. Imagine what that might do to help fix what seems to be a broken system. Want more? Head to her website and learn.  With echoes of what is going on with a defense attorney headed to the Supreme Court this makes sense. Thanks...in advance.

Partly Personal

In reality this has been mostly personal. However today, the first day of Spring marks the anniversary of the death of my Mother z"l. Six years ago today she died in our home at 93 and seven months.  As her primary care-giver during the final eight months of her life I've often thought back to those days and wondered how I did it. Juggling work/life and care is something not foreign to many of you who are experiencing the same things.  Please know there are people out here that understand what you are doing and why.  

I remember that after the funeral I spent nearly two weeks in my office unable to do much of anything. It wasn't sadness but more like emptiness. For so very long I had "job one" and now that was gone.  It was tough to get back.  Not telling you this for any other reason than I know many of you are going through the same things.  Have...faith and may you find the strength to carry on.

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 27 February 2022

After nearly fifteen years of Sunday Morning Coffee I had been considering putting it to bed. The reasons are many but the bottom line is that I have so much going on that it's nice to spend Sunday Morning away from the keyboard. However stuff needs to be said and the stories are many. So, let's get on with it.

Ukraine 

Clearly the number one topic is the invasion of Ukraine by the despot and criminal Vladimir Putin. The United States and our allies have, for too long, been playing footsie with this evil man. And, when you consider the actions of the prior administration, who slavishly lavished praise on the dictator, you can see why he thought invading Ukraine would bring no condemnation. 

But he was wrong as now the world is seeing what a small and evil person Putin is and has been.

However, we should have done more sooner. Not just about Ukraine but because of the evils this man has wrought among the Russian people. Poisoning people who don't agree with him. Casting aside freedoms of assembly. Making a mockery out of elections. Tearing down a free and independent press. Prisoning his adversaries.  This is what despots do and he should have been called out and sanctioned years ago. (Image CNN)

Weak

Last week a friend of mine, who makes no bones about the fact that he is a solid member of the Republican Party, shot me a note saying, "Your president is weak." He went on to quote several "sources" who are solid Fox News operatives. If he would change the channel he would know that his call to isolate Russia via removing them from SWIFT, an international payment system that facilitates cross-border transactions, takes agreements between many allied nations. In other words, it takes time to get everybody on board. And, just yesterday, two days after President Biden said invoking a ban from SWIFT was not yet on the table he had convinced our allies to make it happen. What my friend seems to forget is that the U.S. has interests that go well beyond the laser focused right-wing propaganda spewed by Fox News. 

Recruitment

Perhaps he might wish to take up arms against the Russians? Just yesterday Ukrainian president Zelensky announced the creation of a new International Legion of the Ukrainian army. That means that existing legislation in Ukraine allows foreign citizens to join the Ukrainian military. President Zelensky has urged those who wish to fight the Russian aggression to contact military attaches of Ukraine's embassies and volunteer. He added, "It's not just a Russian invasion of Ukraine, it's the beginning of a war against Europe. Against the unity of Europe. Against the basic human rights in Europe."

Final Thoughts

The leadership that is coming out of Ukraine is pretty amazing as is the awful rhetoric from the Russian criminal Putin.  The Russian dictator told the world that he is out to "de-nazify" Ukraine. That's pretty wild considering that the president of Ukraine is Jewish as is the prime minister and that Ukraine is home to hundreds of thousands of Jews who are being assisted by Israel and other nations.

Germany, long concerned of engaging in any armed support, has sent tons of lethal equipment to Ukraine. The same with Poland. The U.S. has committed hundreds of troops to Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania.  President Biden has authorized millions of dollars in military aid for Ukraine and has asked congress to approve millions more.

Finally this all could end very badly for Putin. Already thousands of Russians have taken to the streets protesting the invasion. They understand what is at stake. And soon they will feel the economic pressure that will force them back into the streets and, perhaps, take down the criminal. And, just this morning, two powerful and wealthy Russians urged Putin to end the war.  Watch this space...

Closer to Home

The madness in the Iowa Legislature continues and now the GOP has picked Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) to give the rebuttal to President Biden's State of the Union message on Tuesday. She better bone up on her international affairs rather than being the beacon of hate for anybody that does not conform to her idea of Christian superiority.  But, if anything she is a perfect match for Vice President on a ticket with "45" who continues to hold sway over the Republican Party. She would then become the "Sarah Palin of Iowa". Good riddance.

Everywhere you look Iowa businesses are consumed with the fact that they can not hire workers. Especially workers who are well educated. Why would they want to come to a place that ranks in the middle of all the states when it comes to public education? Why would they wish to come to a state that degrades people of color, immigrants, LGBTQ folk and others?

Iowa Taxes

Ah, but the salve that will heal our rural population decline and lack of employees will come from another failed idea that "trickle-down economics" will work.  As Kansas proved...it doesn't. Last week the nonpartisan Legislative Services Agency (LSA) estimates the bill, which creates a flat tax of 3.9%, would result in a reduction of $1.9 billion per year in tax revenues going to the state’s general fund. It would mean a $1.7 billion income tax cut for Iowans and a $230 million reduction in the corporate tax rate when changes are fully implemented in fiscal year 2028.

Reynolds and the Iowa GOP are fixated on cutting taxes which will result in further cuts in government funding. But, my friends, that is the goal. Government is bad and big business is good.  And the Iowa Legislature rushed the bill through so that Reynolds could crow about it during her rebuttal to President Biden.

But, we all know that.  So let us turn to the math. Something that they really don't have to teach in private schools but can get paid for...anyway. While there are many "average wage numbers" for Iowa workers let's pick one that is in the middle say, $68,000 a year. The new flat tax will save this person $563 a year. Meanwhile those who make one-million dollars a year would see a tax savings of $1,286 each week.  Democrats in the legislature attempted to pass an amendment to lower the income threshold to $250,000 before higher taxes kicked in but the Republicans who control the legislature defeated the measure. Trickle down kids...trickle down.

Iowa Democrats

I keep hearing the talking heads saying that the Iowa Democrats are tired and not up for a fight. I do not get that sense. As a person deeply involved in the politics of the Democratic Party I see it just the opposite. We that work in the trenches are witness to a population that is growing weary of legislation that marginalizes others. Weary of failed policies that are hollowing out our rural counties. Weary of picking big business over main street. Weary of passing laws that make our state less safe and less attractive. Weary of a government that calls those who teach our children "sinister".  I ain't buying it that Democrats are demoralized. And, what had been suburban safe havens for Republicans are growing increasingly blue.  We keep fighting.

Deidre DeJear

My friend and fellow broadcaster Bob Leonard penned something that hit home. He was talking about how Iowa Democrats were scrambling to find a "great white hope" to lead the Iowa ticket in November. Suggesting that Diedre DeJear was too weak to take on the war chest that belongs to Governor Kim. Reynolds. 

What should be national news has been set aside. Here in Iowa a state that is 93% white has a serious black woman running for governor is amazing in itself. But when you combine the reality that DeJear is and always has been unwavering in her support of solid Democratic ideals and is able to, without notes, tick off exactly what she will do to make the lives of every Iowan better...you must support her.

What the hell are you waiting for?  You can join me and chip in right here.

Partly Personal

Sorry this has gotten so long.  I should make it into a podcast each week so you could listen...right? However, let me say "Thank You!" to so many of you who have written and hit me up in social media asking about Sunday Morning Coffee. That you missed my weekly rant was touching.  

We have work to do...and this nation is counting on you.

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday.

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 16 January 2022

Welcome to 2022...which seems a bunch like 2021 so far. It's Sunday Morning Coffee back in the saddle after a couple of weeks off. To tell the truth, the political news is so weird that I had to "duck and cover" for several Sundays. NOT that it's gotten any better...right. So, let's get into some opinion, politics and a dash of religion just to keep things interesting.

We're Defending What Exactly?

In December President Biden signed the $770 billion defense bill which was $20 billion more than the pentagon requested. It struck me that while we can't get our crap together to support a host of domestic issues say like...voting...what exactly are we defending? Without the right to vote and hold politicians accountable and move this nation to a "more perfect union" what the hell are we doing?  Nearly two dozen states have passed voter suppression legislation (I live in one) and people like Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Sen. Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ) have just said "No!" to carving out a filibuster change to get voting rights passed. So there is that...

Got It Yet?

If one didn't know better one would think that we're living in some crack-pot third world country when it comes to COVID-19. We live in a nation that has a patchwork health care system, that leaves the states to figure out what to do because we have failed to have a clear national response to this plague. To make matters worse it seems that the people in charge alter their recommendations on a regular basis. For example now the CDC says a cloth mask isn't enough and that people should wear a "surgical mask" and also a cloth mask over that.

Meanwhile one in five Americans have yet to get their first shot of a vaccine. All of this is tragic and it extends the life of this awful 21st Century Plague.

Empty Shelves

Last week I saw a political pundit post a photo of some empty grocery store shelves and take it with, #EmptyShelvesBiden. Weary. Want to know why some shelves are empty? Let's start with COVID-19 taking hundreds of thousands of "essential workers" out of the workforce. National economists say that although a precise count of the number of employees who are out sick or quarantining is hard to come by, about 5 million Americans could be isolating due to COVID-19.

Meanwhile we are more than 80,000 truck drivers short of full employment. That means only two of every sixteen loads are being claimed. And there is the Supreme Court decision that vaccine mandates  are not legal and that OSHA overstepped in that call to have employers of 100 people or more get their staff vaccinated. Then there is Matt Whitaker (who we in Iowa know only too well) the former Acting U.S. Attorney General and rabid supporter of "45", in a tweet, said the decision was a "big win for federalism". Oh...please. (Photo: CNN)

And you wanna know why I needed a couple of weeks off?

The Flat Tax

Well now Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) in yet another gift to the wealthy (who, by the way really make the rules) has just proposed a graduated Flat Tax System for this state. The proposal would get to a flat tax of 4% in several years. This has long been a goal of the rich and powerful as it would shift a larger tax burden to lower income individuals and Lord knows we don't need them to bog down progress.

In addition to gifting to the wealthy this would also, according to economists, lower state revenues which then allows the state to further restrict public education support. "Hey, look at our revenues. We can not continue to support public education in any meaningful way..." I can hear it now.

Work Force

And in another lofty proposal Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) has also called for reducing unemployment benefits to force people back to work. Like they are lazy folks sucking down bon-bons while watching day-time soap operas. I'm not sure where this woman dreams up this stuff. This sort of hard-hearted response to a plague is typical of her and her minions. It's just...awful.

But Wait, There's More

Meanwhile on the opening day of the Iowa Legislature the State Senate President Jake Chapman (R-Adel) used his time to call out teachers and journalists for having a "sinister agenda" that is threating the safety of children. You know, the kind of rhetoric that resulted in a guy shooting up a pizza joint because he was convinced there was "child trafficking" going on there.

Well, Jake, I got news. Enjoy the limelight because your time in the Iowa Legislature will soon be coming to an end.

Exhibit A: Here is a recent photo of legislators taken at a West Side Chamber of Commerce Legislative Breakfast this past week. It was not that long ago that every legislator representing the suburbs of Des Moines where Republicans. Voters have finally come to the conclusion that those representing them were doing a lousy job and kicked the GOP to the curb. Legislating from a point of fear only goes so long. There is not a boogie man behind every tree and bush. While that playbook has worked in the past...the rational is getting mighty thin.  So, Jake get ready for a more quiet retirement as Sen. Sarah Trone-Garriott takes you on in your home turf. Know that thousands of us are working to that goal.  In the photo: Sen. Claire Celsi (D-WDM),  Sen. Sarah Trone-Garriott (D-Windsor Heights), Sen. Jake Chapman (R-Adel), Rep. Kenan Judge (D-Waukee) and Rep. Jennifer Konfrst (D-Windsor Heights). (Photo - Windsor Heights Chamber) 

Israel

It was a reminder of what once was. This past week I attended a luncheon put on by Iowans Supporting Israel a true bipartisan organization that seeks to strengthen ties between the two entities. It was a bit surreal as I sat next to the chair of the Grassley reelection committee and Attorney General Tom Miller (D-IA) and a host of people from both sides of the aisle who hold drastically different political beliefs all coming together in support of the State of Israel. The topic was the BDS Movement which seeks to Boycott, Disinvest and Sanction Israel saying that the nation's treatment of the Arab population is akin to apartheid in South Africa. The speaker was Jacob Millner from the Minneapolis office of the American Jewish Committee who shared the reality of the situation in Israel vs. what life was like in South Africa and other places that oppress minorities.  Thirty-three states, and Iowa is one of them, have passed anti BDS legislation that restricts investment in companies that support BDS. If you really want the full story...feel free to make contact with me. 

Partly Personal

We had to cancel services at my congregation Adas Israel of Mason City. Snow. But, if you want a peek at what we talk about each week in our Torah Study you can visit our Adas Israel Blog Post which looks a bunch like this blog posts...for obvious reasons. Yes, each week I get to do that...too.

It's will be my first City Council Meeting as a councilor. The Windsor Heights City Council meets on the first and third Monday. However because of the New Year Holiday we did not meet on January 3rd and we'll not meet tomorrow the 17th because of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day. So...we're meeting on Tuesday. This morning I spent several hours going through the meeting packet...all 162 pages.

I'll be taking Insight on Business the News Hour on the road this week. Headed to Kansas City on business. Be looking for a long-form conversation over lunch with U.S. Senate Candidate Admiral Mike Franken. It was the return to my "Out to Lunch" segment that's been on hold during the pandemic. My thanks to managing partner Karl Wertzberger and his staff at Gilroy's Kitchen + Pub + Patio for hosting us.

Finally.....YES Mitch Henry I will be sending in my dues for the Iowa Unity Coalition...honest! 

Yikes this got long!  Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday...

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 26 December 2021

No, this isn't the "Christmas Edition" that was yesterday. Hey, thanks for clicking through for a bit of politics and opinion laced with a smattering of religion just to keep it all interesting. Sunday Morning Coffee is now served and when are you gonna take down those lights? But, seriously...I hope you had a truly meaningful Christmas.  Oh, one other thing: If you remember last week you just got half-a-cup. This week you're going to get a full pot.  Let's go! 

Human President

This was the first Christmas with President Biden and what a refreshing holiday it was now that we have a human as president. The lead up to the holiday wasn't all about him but about us. The White House Christmas airing was masterfully done but more than anything it was about compassion. Yep, it's pretty neat to have a human as president and First Lady again.

Then there was this bit that was so very cool: During a White House NORAD Santa-tracking call, a MAGA father says “Let’s go Brandon” to the president, code for “F*ck Joe Biden.” Without missing a beat, Biden jokes “Let’s go Brandon, I agree.” Refreshing that we have a president that is so secure rather than thin-skinned like "45". Ya gotta love it. (Photo: Yahoo News)

Meanwhile

Over at the Supreme Court the former president is taking his cover-up case to his hand-picked court to block congress from getting to his communication about the insurrection. So far the lower courts have sided with our human president and said there is no "presidential privilege". So, you've got to know this crook has something to hide but it won't stay hidden forever. Also, Rep. Jim Jordan (R-OH) it's time to come clean. I realize that will be difficult for you. "Clean" is not a word you are accustomed to utter. 

Desmond Tutu

Back to humans. The cleric that stood in opposition to apartheid in South Africa has died. He was 90.  He was the Bishop of Johannesburg from 1985 to 1986 and then the Archbishop of Cape Town from 1986 to 1996, in both cases being the first black African to hold the position. Looking up to real hero's is something we can all do. (Photo: The Guardian)

Build Back Better

My friends in the GOP got what they wanted for Christmas. No passage of the proposal that would massively and positively impact the working stiffs of this nation. It's really something when people campaign against kids, education, health care, jobs, rural development, urban development and a host of programs that would create real wealth for the Middle Class. Even the mine workers in West Virginia came out to implore their senator to get on board. But to no avail. Massive tax cuts for the wealthy get a pass but taking care of people? Nah, it's just not what moves Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV). That a senator who represents just 1.7 million people holds up what millions of people in the rest of the nation are crying out for just does not make sense. And...just so you know the population of West Virginia has dwindled by over 5,000 people in the past year. 

Iowa

Well now...let's consider Iowa. You know, the state that has been run by Republicans for years.  Economist Dave Swenson from Iowa State University posted this bit of news last week: "IA had a mere 233 more births than deaths last year. 89% of population growth was driven by migration, the bulk of which was international migration." And then posted the details in this photo from U.S. Census documents. Go ahead and click on it...to enlarge.

If you dig a bit deeper you'll find that 80 percent of the growth is happening in the state's four largest counties — while 68 counties posted population losses. That means your GOP leaders are squeezing you to death. Now you have to drive further for medical care as rural hospitals shut down services. Schools must do even more consolidation to stay in business. Longer bus rides, less time with family. It's awful and it's about to get worse.

Des Moines Register

I realize that many of you do not get the Des Moines Register and if you do you might have been more tempted by the Christmas ads than what was written recently by Sen. Joe Bolkcom (D- Iowa City). So, giving him and the Register credit read...this complete with links. (Photo: The Daily Iowan)

Are rural Iowa communities better off today then they were 5 years ago?

Iowa Republicans' tax and economic policies have hollowed out Iowa’s small communities and rural landscape. Their big-business approach to every problem has resulted in everything getting bigger: worker shortages, farms, packing plants, chemical and fertilizer companies, tractors, consolidated schools, convenience store chains, food and child care deserts, water quality problems, floods, wind storms, COVID-19 deaths, and agricultural subsidy payments.   

The global corporations that have bankrolled their campaigns have sucked the money and jobs out of small towns and turned Iowa farmland into an expensive out-of-state investment. The “run government like a business,” “tax cut” party has made it much harder for rural Iowans and farmers to live and prosper.

The new 2020 census data highlights the problem. Sixty-eight rural counties continued to lose population over the past decade.

Since Republicans control state government and represent virtually all rural Iowans, they have had a front-row seat to rural decline. They have failed to adequately support their local schools and health care workers and services, the backbone of life in every community.

Gov. Kim Reynolds and legislative Republicans created teacher shortages in rural communities by habitually underfunding local schools and gutting collective bargaining and stable good jobs for educators, state, city and county public servants in every school district, city and town in all 99 counties. Plans to send public money to private schools will only make the teacher shortage worse and consolidate more rural public schools. 

Reynolds and legislators hurt rural health care jobs and hospitals when they turned the management of Iowa’s $6.2 billion Medicaid program over to large out-of-state insurance companies. Medicaid privatization, another corporate-get-rich scheme, has not saved money or made people healthier. That sucking sound is the tens of millions dollars annually (that used to provide good jobs for people taking care of Iowans with mental health and medical problems) funneled to fat-cat CEOs and shareholders. 

Climate change is a major threat to all of us and has really hurt Iowa rural communities and farmers. Virtually every county in Iowa has had multiple floods or droughts or extreme weather disasters resulting in more than 1,000 presidential disaster declarations in the past 30 years. Iowans have suffered billions in damages to homes, businesses and farms. Reynolds and legislative Republicans have made things worse by denying and delaying action. 

Just recently, U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst and U.S. Reps. Randy Feenstra, Ashley Hinson and Mariannette Miller-Meeks all voted against rural Iowa communities and farmers when they voted "no" on generational funding for rural internet, roads, bridges and water systems. Democrats passed the infrastructure bill that will bring blue-state money to fix our dilapidated red-state infrastructure. What are they thinking?

Reynolds and legislative Republicans have controlled all of Iowa government for the past five years. Every decision. Are rural communities better off today than they were five years ago? More consolidated schools? Longer bus rides? More closed businesses? More low wage jobs? Poor internet services? Population decline? More COVID deaths? More anger. Massive tax cuts for Des Moines millionaires and big corporations time and time again have only made things worse for the average rural Iowan.  

If their policies were working, why are they not telling rural Iowans how great they have it? Instead, they peddle rage, grievance and victimhood to Iowans with racial fear, anti-immigrant, anti-government slogans and constant name-calling.  

In 2022, Kim Reynolds and legislative Republicans are proposing more tax cuts and more rural austerity. Tax cuts have failed to grow jobs or quality of life in rural Iowa. Tax cuts will not educate our kids or keep them from leaving, create higher wage jobs, solve the teacher or workforce shortage, create more health care services for rural Iowans, improve internet services or clean up our filthy rivers and lakes.

How much longer will Iowans tolerate Republicans' rhetoric and record of failure? 

We must rescue this state and it starts by defeating these people...we've got work to do friends.

Partly Personal

Last week I went to church. It's not something I'm fond of doing especially when "church" is one of these new types that is heavy on entertainment and light on critical thinking. But, I'll admit it was quite the show complete with a rockin' band, video, a light show...it was a great production.

Yes, there was preaching. Oh...my. The engaging young preacher was able to mix religion, politics and health care in his twenty minute speech. There was the oblique denial of COVID and vaccinations and face coverings. (Of the 175 people there I saw five or six people with masks.) But what really struck me was his constant demand that we've got to have "more Jesus" in our lives. "When you have more Jesus all the darkness of the world will be conquered by His light" was the over-arching theme. He, and his congregation, really, really want "more Jesus" in the public schools. Jesus...not teachers I guess.

But, which Jesus?

The Jesus that cared for widows and orphans and the downtrodden? The Jesus that knew nothing of the faith we, today, say is Christian? The Jesus that pointed to the Torah for truth? The Jesus that demanded religion and state be separate?

Or is it the Jesus that sees science as evil? The Jesus that believes paying low wages is essential for corporate profit? The Jesus that preaches prosperity over equality? The Jesus that sees sin in who you love? The Jesus that demands more births but then abandons the children once born?

I listened to every word that this gifted preacher said and I came away from that experience with a better understanding of how out of touch with reality so many people are.  And, it's pretty scary.

We have work to do....

Have a great Sunday and thanks for reading! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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 14 November 2021

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

John Deere

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

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

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

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

You Can Help

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

The Iowa Poll

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We Need You

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

Partly Personal

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

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

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

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

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday! 

 

 

 

 

  

Sunday Morning Coffee - 7 November 2021

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

Aaron Rogers

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

Infrastructure

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

GOP Backlash

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

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

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

John Deere Strike

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

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

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

Partly Personal

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

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

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

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 24 October 2021

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

Portugal 

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

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

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

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

Fiddling

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

But, But...

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

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

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

Partly Personal

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

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

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 5 September 2021 - Labor Day

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

FreeDumb

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

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

Speaking of Texas

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

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

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

They Cheered

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

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

Unemployment & Jobs

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

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

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

Nursing Home Training

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

Except now you don't. 

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

House District 37

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

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

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

Partly Personal

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

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

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