I will, however, weigh-in briefly on Mitt Romney's decision to concede Iowa to President Obama. Yes, if there is a political move dumber than coming out against the wind energy tax credit and calling Iowa's booming wind energy industry a "stimulus boondoggle," I can't think of what it would be.
Even Steve King disagrees with Romney.
Tom Latham cautiously chastised Romney, saying the latter's position "shows a lack of full understanding of how important the wind energy tax credit is for Iowa and our nation." (DM Register, 07/30/12).
And rumor has it that Senator Grassley, the self-described "father of the wind energy tax credit," is livid . . . although there weren't any tweets to corroborate such speculation.
Possibly the most telling comment in terms of the political damage this causes Romney came from Senator Harkin, who simply said, "Good luck in Iowa!"
Unfortunately, Romney's fatal stumble means the presidential candidates will spend less money in Iowa, at a time when our economy could use a boost. On the up side, we won't have to view so many inane television commercials. Bottom line? Put Iowa in the win column for Obama . . . unless that crazy boycott idea catches fire.
Monday, in addition to Terri Lee and me sparring over the proposal to boycott the presidential election, Jeffrey Weiss with Catholic Piece Ministry and I discuss yesterday's deadly US drone attack in Yemen on the eve of the commemoration of the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki (see Events calendar on my website).
Tuesday, Arnie Arnesen joins me. Arnie is, to some extent, my twin cousin from New Hampshire. Having served in the State Legislature and run for Governor and Congress, Arnie now hosts a daily talk show. With Arnie, one can never predict where the conversation will go, but let's start with the highlights posted in her e-mail message this morning: "Eliz Warren addresses the Dem. Convention good for the base? bad for the Pres?; Electing Ayn Rand for President?; Revolving Doors."
Wednesday, Sean Bremhorst with Students Beyond War is my guest. We'll discuss how some young veterans feel lied to by Army recruiters when the promise of $50,000 for college turns out to be a lot less. Also with me in the studio on Wednesday is Jim Gray, the Libertarian Party vice presidential candidate.
Thursday, we meet Kelli VanDyke-Wulfekuhle with Harbor of Hope Mission, which provides transitional housing for men released from jail or prison. Kelli is helping raise funds to refurbish the facility. Also Thursday, State Representative Dan Kelly joins us.
Friday, Ira Kurzban is my guest. Ira is an American civil rights and immigration lawyer and author. He received widespread media coverage during the 1980s for his representation of Haitian immigrants in Miami. Also Friday, we meet an innovative young entrepreneur: Emily Svec, whose business - Body by Svec - is turning plenty of heads.
So, join the conversation live, Monday-Friday, online from 12:00-1:00 pm on the Fallon Forum website. Call in at 244-0077 or toll free (855) 244-0077. And tune-in to Bradshaw, Monday-Friday from 1:30-2:30, also on the Fallon Forum website. Video and audio podcasts are available, too.
Thanks! - Ed
EVENTS
August 6 - Hiroshima to Fukushima: The Nuclear Fallout (DM)
At the Japanese Bell on the State Capitol grounds (next to the Supreme Court Building) at 7:30 pm. This annual lament of the Hiroshima/Nagaski nuclear bombings will feature speakers and music. Contact Jeff Weiss with Catholic Peace Ministry at jjwcpm@yahoo.com or (515) 255-8114.
August 8 - Modernizing Iowa's HIV Statute (Ames)
Community Forum at the Ames Public Library and viewing of the film "HIV is Not A Crime," in response to efforts to change a state law criminalizing HIV transmission. It begins at 6:30 pm and is open to the public at no charge. Contact Mark Kassis at marktkassis@gmail.com or (515) 441-9944.
August 9 - Drinking Liberally (Des Moines)
You don't have to be a card-carrying liberal to enjoy political conversation and excellent libations at AJ's, 419 E Court starting at 8:00 pm every Thursday. If the revolution is going to start anyplace, it's over a frosty libation. Contact desmoines@drinkingliberally.
August 24-26 - White Eagle Multicultural Pow Wow (Waukee)
At Hawkeye Antique Acres, 3322 Ute Ave. Twelfth annual event, fostering better understanding of all cultures through drumming, music, dance and story-telling from Native American and other cultures. Contact dcmoonwolf@hotmail.com or (515) 266-3187.
August 30 - Green Drinks (Des Moines)
Join casual conversation with people interested in environmental issues and sustainable energy over something to eat and/or drink. It's from 5:30-7:30 pm at Gateway Market and Cafe, 2002 Woodland Ave. Contact Shari Hrdina at DesMoinesGreenDrinks@gmail.com
October 20 - Contra Dance at Odd Fellows Hall (Des Moines)
Contra-Indications is hosting a contra dance at Odd Fellows Hall, 2904 Kingman Blvd, 8:00-11:00 pm, with lesson at 7:30 pm. Live music by Barn Owl Band; Jill Allen as caller. $10 adults; free under 12; $25 family maximum. Visit info@contra-indications.org.
