Voting Rights text on United States Constitution I saw the piece below on Substack and felt it was wise and important. The writer, Sydney Michalski, is a nature photographer who describes her family as "deeply ordinary." I believe her conclusion about Americans' shared fundamental values will resonate with many millions of us. SydneyMichalski🌿NatureMoments 🌿This note … Continue reading A Woman in Rural Maine Provides an Essential Reframing of Americans’ Political Views–Please Read and Share
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Being Part of the “ICE Out for Good” Protests
A fellow protester whose sign I liked As the nationwide demonstrations had been organized in just two days, there wasn't one in our home town. But we had multiple options in communities not far from ours. We chose one that was about a twenty-minute car ride and was scheduled for Sunday, from 11:30 am to … Continue reading Being Part of the “ICE Out for Good” Protests
“ICE OUT FOR GOOD” WEEKEND OF ACTION–JANUARY 10th AND 11th! (With Some Important Addenda Updates)
Photo by Maksim Romashkin on Pexels.com That is the rallying cry evoked by the egregious murder of Renee Nicole Good, a poet and mother who was shot in the face by a badly trained, masked ICE agent in Minneapolis two days ago. The Trump regime in unison declared her a "terrorist" whom the agent had … Continue reading “ICE OUT FOR GOOD” WEEKEND OF ACTION–JANUARY 10th AND 11th! (With Some Important Addenda Updates)
“THIS IS IT…LIGHT UP THOSE FREAKIN’ PHONES!” –Historian Heather Cox Richardson
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wu9QSeAI22I I think most of my readers know I choose to present the hopeful side of events whenever I can. Hell, my first 2026 post emphasized love and hope and peace. But my Zen moment has been overtaken by the need for action, also mentioned in that post. I've long stated that events in our … Continue reading “THIS IS IT…LIGHT UP THOSE FREAKIN’ PHONES!” –Historian Heather Cox Richardson
How Do We Welcome 2026?
Photo by Emilio Su00e1nchez Hernu00e1ndez on Pexels.com A dear friend’s good wishes seem a most fitting place to start: With love and hope. No need to go through the litany of why 2025 was—as the late Queen Elizabeth said of another year (1992 in her case)—the Annus Horribilis. No need to describe at this point … Continue reading How Do We Welcome 2026?
It’s Time for Jon Swift Roundup 2025…
Once again, I am pleased to be a part of the yearly Jon Swift Roundup, a wonderful blogging tradition dating back to 2007 in which bloggers are asked to select a favorite post of the year. We are very fortunate that a dedicated and stalwart man named Batocchio, who blogs at Vagabond Scholar, continues this … Continue reading It’s Time for Jon Swift Roundup 2025…
The Progress in Our Fight Against Authoritarian Takeover This Year–and the Path Ahead
Leah Greenberg, Ezra Levin It's true that we continue to live in scary times in the US, and I know that with all the outrages bombarding us on a daily basis, sometimes it's difficult to hold on to that essential hope and belief that we can get beyond all this awfulness. But it's essential that … Continue reading The Progress in Our Fight Against Authoritarian Takeover This Year–and the Path Ahead
Here’s Some Solid Evidence That the Trumpian Nightmare Is Waning…
From Jay Quo's Status Quo Substack, a photo he credits to eBay In his Status Quo essay on Substack: A Hurl The Heinz Day for the White House, Jay Quo tells us "The Trump regime was humiliated across the board yesterday in a clear sign of the President’s loosening grip on power." I know, I … Continue reading Here’s Some Solid Evidence That the Trumpian Nightmare Is Waning…
The December Backyard Blast…
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels.com December's accreting chill shoots energy into the fauna.At the feeder, tiny and mid-sized sparrows and nuthatchesJockey for perch space, elbow-wing--then hovering mid-airFor the prized thistle available to the persevering. Into this somewhat irregular equilibrium swoops the Strongman:Mr. Blue Jay, his force and ferocity generating minor mayhem--Though he merely stirs … Continue reading The December Backyard Blast…
Watching “The Six Triple Eight” in Trump’s White Nationalist 2025
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Thq-SBtukg Amid the Trump regime's blatant attempts to erase Black people's achievements from our history and understanding, I found Tyler Perry's film about a group of Black American members of the Women's Army Corp (WAC) during World War II informative, infuriating, and inspiring. The film was written, directed, and co-produced by Perry, and distributed by … Continue reading Watching “The Six Triple Eight” in Trump’s White Nationalist 2025
THE “WE AIN’T BUYING IT” BOYCOTT THIS WEEKEND
THIS IS ANOTHER STEP IN THE PEOPLE'S MARCH TO RECLAIM OUR DEMOCRACY The fundamentals in a democracy rest on the pillars of support from the institutions we normally rely on. We have seen too many universities, law firms, and media companies fold under the Trump regime's threats. In contrast, we have seen the power from … Continue reading THE “WE AIN’T BUYING IT” BOYCOTT THIS WEEKEND
We Must Raise Our Voices to Support Ukraine–NOW!
Photo by Galyna Lunina on Pexels.com Not surprisingly, the Trump regime and Putin--without Ukrainian presence--has developed a 28-point "peace" agreement that gives Putin parts of Ukraine, reduces the Ukrainian fighting forces, insists Ukraine promise never to join NATO, and makes it more than likely that in a few years, Russia will again attack a weakened … Continue reading We Must Raise Our Voices to Support Ukraine–NOW!
Could This One Rape Survivor’s Story Break Through the Next-Phase Stonewalling?
After roughly thirty years of tirelessly telling the horrific stories of the stealing of their childhoods by the sex-trafficker Jeffrey Epstein and who-knows-who-else?, the amazing band of women who have met and developed a loving bond of mutual support finally received public acknowledgment of their existence and credibility this week. The House’s nearly unanimous vote … Continue reading Could This One Rape Survivor’s Story Break Through the Next-Phase Stonewalling?
Revisiting Some Word Play–Just for Fun
Dribble is a silly word. Maybe not when we’re talking about the Harlem Globetrotters—or kids in a schoolyard testing their prowess by bouncing, bouncing, bouncing that ball on unforgiving asphalt, then arcing skyward toward a topless/bottomless structure seemingly stitched by a gargantuan spider. Or a baby’s slo-mo Vesuvius after imbibing squished bananas and squashed squash from a teensy spoon dipped too generously into a tiny glass jar by a harried automaton-a-mama whose patience is now pandemic-thin. In such instances, the word bib, found conveniently nestling within the word dribble, is very useful indeed.
November 4th Was “No Kings 3!”
NO DOUBT ABOUT IT: THIS WAS AN ASTONISHING ELECTION DAY NATIONWIDE I had been struck by this NBC poll, published on the morning of Election Day. The bottom line: roughly 30% of those polled identified as MAGA, but 43% identified themselves as "No Kings." Imagine: a mass movement that began just months ago--and in October … Continue reading November 4th Was “No Kings 3!”
Make America Gatsby Again?
Source: Yahoo News I borrowed the above image, which apparently actually appeared at Mar-a-Lago, from Paul Krugman's column, The Big Smirk: The Cruelty Is the Point, Party Edition. Krugman is always worth reading. I have been wondering what brilliant insider originated the idea for the infamous Great Gatsby Halloween Party that was held at Mar-a-Lago … Continue reading Make America Gatsby Again?
The No Kings Alliance Gets to Work Fighting Trump-Enforced Hunger
The Obscene Worsening of Hunger in the World's Richest Nation The first thing to know is that the Trump regime and their Republican enablers cut roughly $186 billion from SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits in their Big Ugly Bill, making fewer people able to meet this basic human need. Those who do qualify will … Continue reading The No Kings Alliance Gets to Work Fighting Trump-Enforced Hunger
The Hip Bone’s Connected to the…
The thigh bone's connected to the hip boneThe hip bone's connected to the backboneThe backbone's connected to the neck boneDoin' the skeleton dance Why am I referring to "The Skeleton Dance," which I recalled from my "yout'"--as the actor Joe Pesce said in my all-time favorite movie: "My Cousin Vinny"? Apart from the fact that … Continue reading The Hip Bone’s Connected to the…
The Secret Sauce to the Success of No Kings…and Some Insights About the Numbers Involved…
Seen on Broadwaybabyto, Substack I've been to several demonstrations now, and this one wasn't just the largest: it was also the most joyful. And, fortunately, it was as defiantly non-violent as all the others. More than seven million people in the streets, and I haven't seen a single report of arrests. (I did see a … Continue reading The Secret Sauce to the Success of No Kings…and Some Insights About the Numbers Involved…
An Important Message to All Who Want to Demonstrate…But Can’t: We Need You Now!(Updates from two earlier posts)
From Substack Please consider this post your invitation to become part of the most inclusive and welcoming and essential party in the US today: the pro-democratic resistance to the authoritarian takeover of the Trump regime, which has already declared war on our fellow Americans and innocent migrants who have lived and worked among us for … Continue reading An Important Message to All Who Want to Demonstrate…But Can’t: We Need You Now!(Updates from two earlier posts)
A Week Before the Biggest Public Protest Ever, the Regime Reveals Their Fear of US
nokings.org Next Saturday, October 18, millions of Americans will join in public solidarity to protest all the terrible things Donald Trump and his administration are wreaking on our nation, its people, and the entire world. As of Friday, the count of registered events was 2500, surpassing the June 14th No Kings Day. Demonstrations are planned … Continue reading A Week Before the Biggest Public Protest Ever, the Regime Reveals Their Fear of US
Fighting Back Against the Dehumanization, Sadism, Provocation
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xslvvRjKADg In the above video of a press conference held on October 6, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson described in stark detail what he called the "true face of the administration's immigration enforcement." Mayor Johnson, seeking a way to curtail this siege against his city, was about to sign an Executive Order specifying that Chicago city … Continue reading Fighting Back Against the Dehumanization, Sadism, Provocation
He Sure Was Right About This:
Source of the above graphic: Ellen Mitchell, Substack Representative Eric Swalwell (D-CA) is calling this shutdown (Trump's third as president) the Epstein Shutdown. And with good reason. For the first time, there have been absolutely no negotiations between the Republicans and the Democrats. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries … Continue reading He Sure Was Right About This:
There Really Is Some Good News From Ukraine Now!
Photo by Galyna Lunina on Pexels.com And no; it has nothing to do with the whims of the unbalanced man in the White House. Anne Applebaum is a highly respected journalist and Pulitzer Prize-winning historian who has written extensively about Communism and events in Central and Eastern Europe. In her Substack column, "Taking Matters into … Continue reading There Really Is Some Good News From Ukraine Now!
“Paper Clip Mutiny”: An Easy Way to Show Your Opposition…
I first read about this innovative campaign in Joyce Vance's Civil Discourse column, printed below. Vance's friend E. Jean Carroll, the fearless woman who won her case against Donald Trump, started it all. It wasn't her idea, however: it became a symbol of resistance to the Nazis during World War II. Carroll's exhortation comes at … Continue reading “Paper Clip Mutiny”: An Easy Way to Show Your Opposition…
When It Comes to Trump’s War on the First Amendment, We the People Will Have the Last Laugh
Protesters who immediately massed in front of the ABC/Disney studio when Disney caved to FCC pressure and removed Jimmy Kimmel's show. Oh, his instincts are really failing him now! The Wanna Be Dictator with no sense of humor and his underlings have declared War on Comedy, and the reactions just may rival the outcry for … Continue reading When It Comes to Trump’s War on the First Amendment, We the People Will Have the Last Laugh
Wars on Black and Brown People…Migrants…Democrats? Check! War on Cancer? Canceled!
Remember this? "The Biden Cancer Moonshot: Ending Cancer As We Know It." The announcement came in 2022, when even people who didn't think much of President Biden thought the goals of at least halving the death rates from cancer by 2047 and improving the quality of life for cancer survivors were certainly worth pursuing. After … Continue reading Wars on Black and Brown People…Migrants…Democrats? Check! War on Cancer? Canceled!
Forgive Me If I Seem Out of Step, But I Felt a Strong Pull Toward a Cheery Post.
Image from World Wildlife Fund https://www.worldwildlife.org I Didn't Realize How Much I've Been Missing Pandas Since I Left Twitter But then I stumbled on PunkRock Pixie's Substack infusion of Pandamania/Pandamonium, with musical accompaniment: https://substack.com/@punkrockpixie/note/c-146992731?r=9rk4h&utm_medium=ios&utm_source=notes-share-action There are actually some interesting reasons for the screwy behavior you'll see in this brief video. Humans are responsible for many … Continue reading Forgive Me If I Seem Out of Step, But I Felt a Strong Pull Toward a Cheery Post.
Wherein the Supreme Court Majority Blesses a Lunatic…
The radical Supreme Court majority seems hell-bent on quashing democracy in the U S of A in behalf of an increasingly deranged man and the vision of a White Christian America they appear to share. A "president" who has shown there's no end to his penchant for violence has reached even lower. Calling for war … Continue reading Wherein the Supreme Court Majority Blesses a Lunatic…
Mark Your Calendars: On October 18, Democracy Gets Another Big Boost–Plus: Action Needed Now on Several Important Issues
Building on the success of the June 14 outpouring of an estimated five to six million pro-democracy people, the organizers have announced plans for what they anticipate will be an even larger day of protests on Saturday, October 18. If you can attend one of the non-violent demonstrations to be held that day, please do … Continue reading Mark Your Calendars: On October 18, Democracy Gets Another Big Boost–Plus: Action Needed Now on Several Important Issues
On Labor Day, 2025…
My grandpa was a union organizer who would never, ever cross a picket line, no matter what. One day, when he was in his 80s, my aunt had to take him to the hospital. They didn't learn until they'd arrived that the staffers were on strike. Knowing her father would refuse to walk past those … Continue reading On Labor Day, 2025…
Grand Juries Refused to Indict These Ham Sandwiches—and Other Sprigs of Democracy This Week…
The attacks have been unrelenting, and many Americans are understandably feeling exhausted, fearful, even hopeless. Those feelings are, of course, precisely the ones the authoritarian playbook has designed to make us feel. Just keep 'em coming, the bizarre fraud in the White House and his enablers believe, and they'll be able to overcome all the … Continue reading Grand Juries Refused to Indict These Ham Sandwiches—and Other Sprigs of Democracy This Week…
Are My Dreams Connected to the Creepiness That Returned to My Blog?
Photo by rovenimages.com on Pexels.com I almost never remember my dreams. After all these years, I've accepted what I regard as covert REMness (I know I've been dreaming; I just don't know what I dreamed) even as I quietly envy those whose nighttime imagination whirls are springboards to rich stories. But in the past several … Continue reading Are My Dreams Connected to the Creepiness That Returned to My Blog?
About Trump’s “I Deserve the Nobel Peace Prize” Campaign
In case you haven't heard, the World's Leading Charlatan, surely a candidate for the Most Destructive Person Ever to Hold Public Office Award, reallyreallyreally believes that he is owed the Nobel Peace Prize. He's been nominated for the prize by a small cast of characters who are--shall we say--not very good judges of character and … Continue reading About Trump’s “I Deserve the Nobel Peace Prize” Campaign
Please Watch This Urgent Conversation Between the Historian and the Governor!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lNu6CC-rKXA I hope you'll devote thirty-one minutes of your time to watch this discussion between noted historian Heather Cox Richardson and California Governor Gavin Newsom. It is an important exchange about shoring up our fragile democracy. Though I'm summarizing it below, I can't do justice to the content, which was rich with references to historical … Continue reading Please Watch This Urgent Conversation Between the Historian and the Governor!
An Angry Public Has a Chance to Help Reverse the “Big Ugly Betrayal”
Remember when, after the Republicans voted for the unprecedented massive transfer of wealth from America's poor and middle class people to the wealthiest, a bunch of them said of that legislation, "Oh, we didn't think it would be this bad." Some said they hadn't had time to read it, but they voted for it anyway … Continue reading An Angry Public Has a Chance to Help Reverse the “Big Ugly Betrayal”
When Art and Life Joyfully Embrace…
As seen on Substack... Annie
The White House Gerrymandering Scheme for Texas: Where Will This End?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nuJubQJ9jIw The way this dreadful saga began may have been lost in the story that's emerged. When Texas Governor Greg Abbott called a special session of the legislature, a major concern of some legislators was the need to address the state's highly criticized emergency preparedness following the floods in Central Texas. The high toll of … Continue reading The White House Gerrymandering Scheme for Texas: Where Will This End?
A Plan to Ease the Starvation in Gaza
From World Central Kitchen's website Jose Andres, the chef who founded World Central Kitchen, has written an essay that appeared in The New York Times under the headline: "We Need a New Way to Feed the Starving in Gaza." Though I can't assess the feasibility of the specific recommendations he makes, he and his organization … Continue reading A Plan to Ease the Starvation in Gaza
You May Have Seen Trump’s Failed Attempt to Intimidate the Federal Reserve Chair–But Perhaps Not THIS Version!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d9LnCLZjLJw I am new to Diaper Diplomacy, the fun folks who enable us to laugh at our situation in a different way. A mere 1:44 minutes of smiles await you. When Trump tried to embarrass Fed Chair Jerome Powell for supposedly mismanaging construction work in the Federal Reserve Complex (as if that was part of … Continue reading You May Have Seen Trump’s Failed Attempt to Intimidate the Federal Reserve Chair–But Perhaps Not THIS Version!
And the Public Protests Continue…
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fkQZU0cqz44 Though you may not have heard in the mainstream media, a sixty-hour Protect Medicaid Vigil has been ongoing on Washington's National Mall. It began on July 23 at 9 pm, and will continue until 9 am on July 26. Those assembled are celebrating the 60th anniversary of Medicaid and Medicare by telling their personal … Continue reading And the Public Protests Continue…
Stormy Days Ahead for Donald? (A Poem About the Grotesquerie)
Photo by Nikolett Emmert on Pexels.com Once again the news of the dayIs an outgrowth of Someone's dismay.The House that makes lawsHas shut down its doorsTo avoid the stench of decay. Can it be that the Felon Obscene,Who survived his "Grab 'em" latrine--Knew to pay Stormy(While whining "poor me...")-- Yet thought he'd stay clean of … Continue reading Stormy Days Ahead for Donald? (A Poem About the Grotesquerie)
Dear Readers: I Need Your Help…
Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko on Pexels.com HAVE YOU HAD TROUBLE COMMENTING ON MY BLOG POSTS? I have heard from a bunch of folks who are trying--or have tried--to comment on my blog posts but have been unable to get past WordPress's various barriers. Some of you have given up in frustration. This is a big … Continue reading Dear Readers: I Need Your Help…
We Just Have to Keep Making “Good Trouble”…
Whether or not you've been making signs, or have even been engaging in public protests, I'm sure you can understand the sentiment that motivated this witty sign-maker. It appeared in New York's Foley Square yesterday, one of the largest of the more than 1500 demonstrations that occurred nationwide. I thank the friend who was there … Continue reading We Just Have to Keep Making “Good Trouble”…
Please Watch Robert Reich Weave Together All We’re Facing…Then Let’s Make Some Good Trouble Tomorrow!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rEH7sF6pA4s In this brief video, Robert Reich describes the five steps that Trump and his cronies are taking to gain control of Americans' minds. Speaking to an Elmo hand puppet, Reich asks: "Why is Trump so hell-bent on defunding PBS?" His response: "It’s part of a larger plan — one where he can control not … Continue reading Please Watch Robert Reich Weave Together All We’re Facing…Then Let’s Make Some Good Trouble Tomorrow!
This Strong Institutional Guardrail Doesn’t Get Enough Attention
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ObHoyeo54jk Please watch the dynamic New York Attorney General Letitia James describe the leadership role the Democratic attorneys general have taken nationwide, which includes town hall meetings to answer the public's concerns. THEY WERE READY BEFORE "DAY ONE" One year before the fateful 2024 election, a group of attorneys general in blue states set to … Continue reading This Strong Institutional Guardrail Doesn’t Get Enough Attention
I Can’t Get This Narrative Out of My Head…
Image generated by AI I caught a snippet of a podcast that MSNBC's Nicolle Wallace conducted with Glennon Doyle, an author and social activist, and her spouse Abby Wambach, a retired Gold Medal-winning soccer player and coach who is also a social activist. The two were describing their efforts to appear in court during hearings … Continue reading I Can’t Get This Narrative Out of My Head…
We Need to Prepare for a Deluge of ICE Men…
I've been trying to figure out how to address the huge implications of the vast amounts of money in the Big Bad Bill allotted to ICE--creating a danger that hasn't been getting the attention it demands. The terror that's growing in immigrant communities nationwide as these cowardly masked men invade quiet community spots is already … Continue reading We Need to Prepare for a Deluge of ICE Men…
No Freakin’ Kings, Period!
FIGHTING BACK, ACKNOWLEDGING OUR FOUNDING DOCUMENT It's worth perusing every word of the Declaration of Independence because much of it echoes what we're living with today. A sampling: He has refused his Assent to Laws, the most wholesome and necessary for the public good. He has obstructed the Administration of Justice, by refusing his Assent … Continue reading No Freakin’ Kings, Period!
WE CAN STILL STOP THE BIG UGLY BILL IF WE ACT IMMEDIATELY!!
NOTE: WATCH MINORITY LEADER JEFFRIES ON C-SPAN NOW (WED AM)! MASTERFUL!! The Affordable Care Act was saved by one vote. The House bill this time was passed by only one vote. The Senate bill (worse than the House's) was passed only by JD Vance's breaking a tie. With 17 million people in danger of losing … Continue reading WE CAN STILL STOP THE BIG UGLY BILL IF WE ACT IMMEDIATELY!!
Remembering Melissa and Mark Hortman–and Their Dog Gilbert–as This President Is Doing…
Screenshot It's been slightly more than two weeks since Melissa Hortman, the beloved former Minnesota House Speaker, her husband Mark, and their Golden Retriever, Gilbert, were assassinated in their home by a man pretending to be a police officer who had a list of Democrats he planned to kill. The killer also shot and wounded … Continue reading Remembering Melissa and Mark Hortman–and Their Dog Gilbert–as This President Is Doing…
Heroic Voices Against America’s Worst, Part V(B): The Current NIH Staffers Who Signed the Bethesda Declaration
This is a companion post to "Heroic Voices Against America's Worst, Part V(A). You may want to read that one first. On June 9, 2025, workers from all the varied components of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) made a bold move that may well end their government employment and very possibly make them targets … Continue reading Heroic Voices Against America’s Worst, Part V(B): The Current NIH Staffers Who Signed the Bethesda Declaration
Heroic Voices Against America’s Worst, Part V(A): Colette Delawalla Exhorts Us to “Stand Up for Science”–and to Help Get Rid of RFK, Jr.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RBQaehNhQS8 For Part V of my "Heroic Voices Against America's Worst" series, I am linking that designation to individuals involved in two related efforts to awaken Americans to one of the most dangerous aspects of the Trump regime's horrific agenda: the attacks on science and the degradation of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and … Continue reading Heroic Voices Against America’s Worst, Part V(A): Colette Delawalla Exhorts Us to “Stand Up for Science”–and to Help Get Rid of RFK, Jr.
So Now We’re at War…
Photo by DUONG QUu00c1CH on Pexels.com One thing Donald Trump did not need was another excuse for forging toward authoritarianism. We can acknowledge that the world would be better off without the malevolent Iranians and hope for a regime change that will free the Iranian people from the despots--while still expressing profound concern about US … Continue reading So Now We’re at War…
Happy Juneteenth! “Good Trouble Lives On…”
And Mark Your Calendars for the Next National Day of Action: July 17th Five years after the death of civil rights icon John Lewis, millions of Americans will take to the streets once again. As the organizers write, we will "carry forward his fight for justice, voting rights, and dignity for all." Annie
An Important Message to All Who Wanted to Demonstrate…But Couldn’t: We Need You Now!
It is exhilarating to be in community with fellow protesters as we were on Saturday. Yet I know that there are many people--possibly even more than the millions in the streets--who wanted to demonstrate but could not for a variety of reasons. I was moved by a comment I received from one of those people … Continue reading An Important Message to All Who Wanted to Demonstrate…But Couldn’t: We Need You Now!
In the “Courage Is Contagious” Department, Americans Just Got an “A”!
The man standing next to me at New York's "No Kings" demonstration had built a puppet of Humpty Trumpy: as he jiggled the lever, the clown's arms and legs moved around weirdly. I also liked the witty "No Faux-King Way" sign, which I've seen in photos of several demonstrations. Attending the demonstration was once again … Continue reading In the “Courage Is Contagious” Department, Americans Just Got an “A”!
Haikus for June Fourteenth
Photo by David Dibert on Pexels.com A Summer March History-fraught stepsOn unknowable terrainTo cast off Mad Rule An American Flag A symbol reclaimedDeterminedly aloftFloats chills from within Annie
Trump Just Upped the Stakes: More Reason to Join “No Kings Day”–Even From Your Home!
From Substack It was clear that there was no need for the Trump regime to federalize the National Guard to march into Los Angeles. In this large city with a substantial immigrant population, sending ICE agents into a Home Depot where workers await assignments and to other businesses was deliberate provocation. One demonstrator said he … Continue reading Trump Just Upped the Stakes: More Reason to Join “No Kings Day”–Even From Your Home!
It’s D-Day: As We Honor Heroes, the German Chancellor Has to Educate Trump About the Nazis
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=noJgJb-prDU On this day when our nation commemorates the huge sacrifice American soldiers and sailors and their allies made when they stormed the beaches of Normandy--thereby shifting World War II away from the Nazis--we just had another painful reminder how abysmally ignorant the temporary occupant in the White House is. When German Chancellor Friedrich Merz … Continue reading It’s D-Day: As We Honor Heroes, the German Chancellor Has to Educate Trump About the Nazis
Can You Help Identify This Strange New Bird at Our Feeder?
As we were having dinner around 7 pm a few nights ago, my husband called my attention to a presence perched on our deck's railing, chowing away. The presence wore a mask to conceal its identity. As the feeder usually dangles at a right angle to the deck, the foraging fauna had used its facile … Continue reading Can You Help Identify This Strange New Bird at Our Feeder?
SLAVA UKRAINI!
Ukrainian President Zelensky congratulates General Maliuk Remember when Donald Trump sought to humiliate Ukrainian President Zelensky in the Oval Office? Repeatedly Trump has told Zelensky that "you don't hold any cards" in this battle for Ukraine's sovereignty. WRONG! You've probably heard the extraordinary news that the Ukrainian Intelligence Service had sneaked drones far into various … Continue reading SLAVA UKRAINI!
A Dynamo of Hope for Our Planet: 91-Year-Old Jane Goodall (Interviewed by Andy Borowitz)
Dr. Jane Goodall, interviewed by Andy Borowitz Humorist Andy Borowitz, who seems to be a lovely (as well as funny) man, just interviewed Jane Goodall, his self-described "role model," for his Substack column. The discussion includes sadness as Goodall describes what's happened to her beloved chimps and other human-made degradations. But for the most part, … Continue reading A Dynamo of Hope for Our Planet: 91-Year-Old Jane Goodall (Interviewed by Andy Borowitz)
Why Bruce Springsteen’s Speaking Up Now May Be Just the Spark We Needed…
Photo by Jose Antonio Gallego Vu00e1zquez on Pexels.com I find the essay below, which appeared in Marc Elias's Democracy Docket, a truly hopeful overview of how the resistance against the Trump regime just received a big boost. I've heard Elias express profound concern lately about the relative sluggishness of the standard-bearers in our society--in Congress, … Continue reading Why Bruce Springsteen’s Speaking Up Now May Be Just the Spark We Needed…
A Much-Needed Feel-Good Story…
Photo by Anna Tarazevich on Pexels.com In this time of frequently tumultuous and too-often horrific news, it's been a rough week. So I thought I'd offer a story of simple human-to-human kindness. My friend showed me a photo of her face after a recent fall. It was brutal: her normally delicate features were marred by … Continue reading A Much-Needed Feel-Good Story…
We Need to Hear Americans’ Stories
https://twitter.com/AndrewSolender/status/1922352525132370156?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1922352525132370156%7Ctwgr%5E077bbfaa2aed2dd037a26c838d7189af87b0cbc7%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.commondreams.org%2Fnews%2Frepublican-bill-to-cut-medicaid Twenty-five demonstrators, many with wheelchairs and walkers, were arrested in the US Capitol last week. Trump's "big, beautiful bill" should actually be called what it is: "A Big Billionaires' Boondoggle." And it is emphatically yet another example--if one were needed--of the phrase "Cruelty is the point," which was evident in Trump 1.0, but is … Continue reading We Need to Hear Americans’ Stories
Well, This Is Creepy…
Photo by rovenimages.com on Pexels.com I am seeking guidance from my fellow bloggers and/or anyone with relevant technical experience to help me make sense of the odd situation I noticed with my blog a few days ago. If among you are any of those true geniuses who can see patterns where they aren't readily apparent, … Continue reading Well, This Is Creepy…
The Authors of “How Democracies Die” Tell Us How to Save Ours (Hint: June 14 Is Our Next Big Opportunity!)
The next big day of public demonstrations to save our democracy--"No Kings Day"--will be June 14, which is also Flag Day--and also just happens to be Donald Trump's vainglorious self-declared birthday party/military parade. Apart from the sheer repulsiveness of an American president doing such a thing...apart from the dreadful authoritarian symbolism...apart from the ahistorical idiocy … Continue reading The Authors of “How Democracies Die” Tell Us How to Save Ours (Hint: June 14 Is Our Next Big Opportunity!)
“Bright April” and the Librarian of Congress–and All We Must Protect: A Regrettably Timely Tribute to an Extraordinary Public Servant
Dr. Carla Hayden, photo from About the Librarian, https://www.loc.gov/about/about-the-librarian/ Dear Readers: I am reposting this piece, which appeared on July 19, 2022, because Dr. Carla Hayden, the illustrious and dedicated Librarian of Congress who had one year to go in her term, was summarily dismissed via an email on Friday. Why? Because of the Trump … Continue reading “Bright April” and the Librarian of Congress–and All We Must Protect: A Regrettably Timely Tribute to an Extraordinary Public Servant
I’m in Love With an Irish Novelist…
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FrqM4FKksw8 This is all very chaste and above-board, of course. But for the first time, I feel that I'm the reader's equivalent of a Deadhead (of the Grateful variety)--so enamored with this writer that I want to experience his entire oeuvre. My dear friend Denise, whose own writerly talent is exceptional, told me a few … Continue reading I’m in Love With an Irish Novelist…
A Mother’s Plea About America’s Accommodation to School Shootings
https://nohalfmeasures.blog/2025/04/28/active-shooter-drills/ I have long depended on the wisdom and insights of my blogging friend Abigail Johnston. In her posts on No Half Measures, she consistently expands my knowledge and understanding about the everyday life--with vast travails and occasional small personal triumphs--that she and others with Stage IV Metastatic Breast Cancer experience as they traverse our … Continue reading A Mother’s Plea About America’s Accommodation to School Shootings
Big Blubbery Baby Man* (on the 100-Day Historic Nadir)
B lue-swathed, behemoth-levelI gnorance sits in the newly hyper-G ilded Oval Office, B abbling on Truthless Social,L oathed and scorned by AmericansU nmoored by hisB roken promises, B rokenE conomy, andR elentless criming; aY ammering mess whose B aseline mental/emotional A cuity appear tottering B elow all known metrics Y et discernible by real scientists. … Continue reading Big Blubbery Baby Man* (on the 100-Day Historic Nadir)
Heroic Voices Against America’s Worst, Part 4: Lee Gelernt Fights For Migrants
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KzvK2xrfxDA If you watch cable news at all, you've probably seen one or more recent interviews with a quiet, calm man named Lee Gelernt. In fact, Gelernt, who works for the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) in its New York office, has become a frequent guest as he educates viewers on the latest Trumpian horrors … Continue reading Heroic Voices Against America’s Worst, Part 4: Lee Gelernt Fights For Migrants
Four Sources Tell Us the Tide Is Turning (in a good way!)
We appear to have reached a pivotal moment in the battle to save our tattered democracy. My ever-hopeful self has been in full extended antennae for such signs, but I didn't dare think they'd surface so soon. (Three of these reports are from last week; the fourth brings us to this past weekend's successes.) From … Continue reading Four Sources Tell Us the Tide Is Turning (in a good way!)
A Not-So-Funny Thing Happened on My Way to a Tesla Takedown…
Photo by Maksim Goncharenok on Pexels.com I was truly psyched to attend this event last week, just minutes from our home. But instead of a Tesla Takedown, I got a Covid Takedown. After all these years of pridefully escaping Covid (my spouse too), ye olde virus has been wreaking minor havoc within us both. My … Continue reading A Not-So-Funny Thing Happened on My Way to a Tesla Takedown…
A Cogent Essay About the “Whiteness” of America’s Mass Protests…
"Hands Off" Demonstration, New York City, April 5, 2025. It's long been a given in American life that the most stalwart advocates of our democratic ideals have been Black Americans, especially Black women. They've earned that status over many decades of hard work--and personal peril. That's why there was so much excitement when Kamala Harris … Continue reading A Cogent Essay About the “Whiteness” of America’s Mass Protests…
ACTION ALERT: “SOCIAL SECURITY IS ON LIFE SUPPORT”
PLEASE WATCH THIS 3:50-MINUTE VIDEO (THAT WP WON'T LET ME INSERT HERE) AND ACT NOW! https://jesscravenvideos.substack.com/p/i-got-more-dirt-from-my-social-security I don't like to be an alarmist, and I try hard not to send unmitigated bad news. But Jess Craven of Chop Wood, Carry Water is very well-connected and reliable. In this video, she cites information from a former … Continue reading ACTION ALERT: “SOCIAL SECURITY IS ON LIFE SUPPORT”
Can You Spare A Few Bucks To Stop Them From Stealing Votes Already Cast?
North Carolina Justice Allison Riggs (from Democracy Docket) Of all the attacks on our fragile democracy that we face at this moment, I think what's been going on in North Carolina since last November's election deserves prompt attention--while there's still time. If the Republicans succeed there, they'll have a template they'll use in every state--in … Continue reading Can You Spare A Few Bucks To Stop Them From Stealing Votes Already Cast?
And “HANDS OFF” From the Big Apple…
(The two signs my husband and I alternated holding up were taped back-to-back as one sign that we turned around as we marched. Note: One woman tapped me on the shoulder to tell me she appreciated my punctuation. I think she was talking about the apostrophe in Oligarchs'.) I had planned to spend a little … Continue reading And “HANDS OFF” From the Big Apple…
Senator Cory Booker’s Daring, Exhilarating, Illuminating Triumph
When Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) took control of the Senate floor Monday night, he said simply that his constituents had persuaded him he had to act more forcefully to demonstrate that "These are not normal times in this nation." He stressed that he didn’t know if his actions would change anything, but he was sure … Continue reading Senator Cory Booker’s Daring, Exhilarating, Illuminating Triumph
If You Can, Tune in CNN Streaming NOW! Update: Also on PBS YouTube
Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) took control of the Senate floor at 7 pm last night and is still there as I write at 10 am, calling attention—with information and passion—to all the terrible things the Trump/Musk administration is doing to Americans and America. He said he’ll remain there, making “good trouble” (quoting the late icon … Continue reading If You Can, Tune in CNN Streaming NOW! Update: Also on PBS YouTube
I’ve Been Thinking About Frances Perkins (and Social Security) a Lot Lately…
Courtesy of Library of Congress Without Frances Perkins, we probably wouldn't have Social Security. She fought to secure it for Americans. Now we must fight to keep it. One of President Joe Biden's last formal acts (on December 16, 2024) was to designate the Frances Perkins National Monument in Newcastle, Maine. The official proclamation states … Continue reading I’ve Been Thinking About Frances Perkins (and Social Security) a Lot Lately…
Signal’s Crossed, Emoji-Texting Protectors
An Acrostic Commemorating a Historic National Security Snafu* S illy me: I thought Americans' demonstrations mightG ain us a slowdown in theN ihilistic decimation of our safety netA nd overall freedoms. Instead, theL' evel of incompetence S howcased by our C riminally negligent,R ankly amateur,O vertly incompetent nationalS ecurity officials, using off-the-shelfS oftware toE ngage … Continue reading Signal’s Crossed, Emoji-Texting Protectors
Anti-Authoritarianism Is On The March–Here And In Europe. Join HANDS OFF On April 5!
Have you seen videos of the hundreds of thousands of people crowding the streets in Hungary, where Donald Trump's soulmate Victor Orban is getting a profound message from his people? The same is happening in Slovakia, Serbia, and Georgia. Here is a discussion of the protests reported by RadioFreeEurope/RadioLiberty, a critical service for our national … Continue reading Anti-Authoritarianism Is On The March–Here And In Europe. Join HANDS OFF On April 5!
Reprising/Retrieving Some Hope From My Surroundings…
As I looked out the window to my backyard today, I spotted this lovely daffodil--one of two that have blossomed just when I needed them. This is such a hard, scary time for us here in the US--and throughout the world--as the deranged man in the Oval Office and his chainsaw-wielding sidekick decimate norms, laws, … Continue reading Reprising/Retrieving Some Hope From My Surroundings…
URGENT! Persuade Senate Democrats–ASAP–to Filibuster the Dreadful Republican Bill to Fund the Government a la Trump/Musk!!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=twT-jm0lNOw THE VOTE WILL BE SOON; PLEASE--I URGE YOU--WATCH JESSICA CRAVEN'S VITALLY IMPORTANT, SUCCINCT VIDEO (LESS THAN SIX MINUTES). THEN CALL YOUR DEMOCRATIC SENATORS IMMEDIATELY! (202) 224-3121 AND ASK TO BE TRANSFERRED TO YOUR SENATORS' OFFICES. UPDATE: Friday, 9:50 am. Dem Minority Leader Schumer now says enough Senate Dems will support the Continuing Resolution (CR) … Continue reading URGENT! Persuade Senate Democrats–ASAP–to Filibuster the Dreadful Republican Bill to Fund the Government a la Trump/Musk!!
Heroic Voices Against America’s Worst, Part 3: Ezra Levin and Leah Greenberg of Indivisible
As I've written previously, I am impressed by and grateful for Ezra Levin and Leah Greenberg, the co-founders and co-Executive Directors of the nationwide organization Indivisible. They started this action-oriented grass-roots movement in response to Donald Trump's 2016 election. There are more than 1500 Indivisible groups, represented in every state. And when Levin and Greenberg … Continue reading Heroic Voices Against America’s Worst, Part 3: Ezra Levin and Leah Greenberg of Indivisible
Responding to Trump’s 100-Minute Monologue/Diatribe
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=293AeXaz-_Q The history of elected officials from the opposing party offering televised responses--"rebuttals"--to presidents' State of the Union or similar speeches is inglorious. Remember Senator Marco Rubio reaching off-screen for water and gulping it down following President Obama's 2013 speech? Or, in 2024, Alabama Senator Katie Britt offering a kitchen table attack on President Biden … Continue reading Responding to Trump’s 100-Minute Monologue/Diatribe
How to Help Ukraine–and Why It’s NOT a Lost Cause…
Photo by Mathias Reding on Pexels.com 1. Make a contribution... To President Zelenskyy's state fund: https://u24.gov.ua/ Consider this comment forwarded by Jessica Craven: [I]f everyone who voted for Kamala Harris gave $10, we’d raise 750M. It’s a good way to boost democracy and stick it to Trump and Vance. Or to one of the organizations … Continue reading How to Help Ukraine–and Why It’s NOT a Lost Cause…
A Breather For Tense Times: It’s As Easy As PFC…
Photo by Madison Inouye on Pexels.com If the news of the day makes you twitchy,Or quite angry, annoyed, even bitchy, I'm offering you nowSome relief that I vow Is a balm for anxiety's itching. Mindfulness, you may know, is based on the premise that we spend more time with our thoughts than we do with … Continue reading A Breather For Tense Times: It’s As Easy As PFC…
An Easy Way to Protest: Don’t Buy Anything on Friday, February 28! (With an update to my addendum about Ukraine)
Photo by Photo By: Kaboompics.com on Pexels.com In case you haven't heard about this nationwide effort: The 24 hour Economic BlackoutAs our first initial act, we turn it off.For one day we show them who really holds the power. WHEN: Thursday February 27th from Midnight till Friday The 28th Midnight (A full 24 hours of … Continue reading An Easy Way to Protest: Don’t Buy Anything on Friday, February 28! (With an update to my addendum about Ukraine)
One Well-Told Story Is Worth Tons of Political Points: Reblogging Carol A. Seidl’s Praise of the NIH
The most important way to build public momentum is to reach people's hearts and minds. The best politicians know that's true. And there's nothing more important to us as a nation today than to awaken and move vast numbers of Americans via the stories of individuals and families who have been either positively affected by … Continue reading One Well-Told Story Is Worth Tons of Political Points: Reblogging Carol A. Seidl’s Praise of the NIH
“…And Then They Came for Me…”
After reading voting rights attorney Marc Elias's response to Elon Musk's recent attack against him (see below), I thought about the German Pastor Martin Niemoller's famous quote. It feels like the right time to remind us of the essential nature of our shared humanity, which is the concept most profoundly being undermined by Musk and … Continue reading “…And Then They Came for Me…”
In Search of Some Fine Red Grapes
Photo by Bruno Scramgnon on Pexels.com As the 2000-Year-Old Man, the brilliantly comedic Mel Brooks responded to straight man Carl Reiner's asking him about his diet. Brooks waxed rhapsodic about nectarines. "Helluva fruit!" he exclaimed. "Half a peach, half a plum. I'd rather have a rotten nectarine than a fine plum. What do you think … Continue reading In Search of Some Fine Red Grapes
They’re Destroying Ukraine, Egg Prices Are Soaring; Are Americans Preparing to Stop the Steal?
I regret that I withdrew from Twitter when I did. Though Ukrainian President Zelenskyy had no idea who I was, I valued his daily bulletins and always expressed my support and reposted them. Now, I wish I could tell him how heartbroken I am that my country is siding with Putin's murderers against the extraordinarily … Continue reading They’re Destroying Ukraine, Egg Prices Are Soaring; Are Americans Preparing to Stop the Steal?
Some Critical Info to Help Us Fight the Coup Against the People: Please Share Widely!!
Fellow blogger tengrain at Mock Paper Scissors has posted a workaround to reach federal information “from the before times“—as shocking as that phrase is. Through the Internet’s Wayback Machine, there are links to important government agencies, as well as the Senate, House, and some of their committees. All data were posted prior to January 20, … Continue reading Some Critical Info to Help Us Fight the Coup Against the People: Please Share Widely!!
Why Is Mad King Trump Attending the Super Bowl?
Photo by JESHOOTS.com on Pexels.com Well, the normalization of Donald Trump will get a huge boost when he becomes the first president ever to attend the Super Bowl on February 9. When the Kansas City Chiefs play the Philadelphia Eagles in New Orleans, Trump will be accompanied by his lackey, House Speaker Mike Johnson, who … Continue reading Why Is Mad King Trump Attending the Super Bowl?
“It’s All of Us Against the Billionaires”–Maurice Mitchell, Working Families Party
I was encouraged and inspired after attending the "We Choose to Fight Action Call" Zoom event Sunday night. Actually, my husband and I didn't watch via Zoom because by the time we signed on a few minutes before the scheduled 8:00 pm starting time, the attendees had already "maxed out." We were directed to click … Continue reading “It’s All of Us Against the Billionaires”–Maurice Mitchell, Working Families Party
A CALL TO ACTION: Sunday, February 2, 8 PM EST Via ZOOM
Indivisible, the nationwide citizens action organization, and other groups, are having a Zoom meeting tomorrow night to mobilize citizens to fight the draconian budget freeze the Trump administration is attempting to institute. If you’ve been feeling frustrated and frightened, taking action can be an antidote. To register for this virtual community event, click on the … Continue reading A CALL TO ACTION: Sunday, February 2, 8 PM EST Via ZOOM
Verizon Actually Responded to My Plea to Stop the Spam…(!)
Photo by Tyler Lastovich on Pexels.com When I posted "An Open Letter to Verizon's CEO: Why Can't Anyone Stop the Spam?" in December, I was blowing off steam and seeking kindred spirits who were getting similarly bombarded by unwanted phone calls. I hadn't really planned to send my cri de coeur to the guy, whose … Continue reading Verizon Actually Responded to My Plea to Stop the Spam…(!)
The Obscenity and Lies Behind Mass Deportation
Yesterday was Holocaust Remembrance Day. As fellow blogger tengrain at Mock Paper Scissors reminded us: "The Holocaust began as a mass deportation." I am posting this piece tonight, knowing that the outrages emanating from that deranged man and his enablers are so numerous and diverse that most of us are feeling overwhelmed. That sense, and … Continue reading The Obscenity and Lies Behind Mass Deportation
Are You Ready For “10 Things We Can All Do To Protect Democracy”?
Image courtesy of pikrepo.com I attended a "ladies luncheon" yesterday with five friends I either see rarely or hadn't seen for quite a while. They are intelligent women who keep somewhat up to date with current events but have the good sense not to travel as far down the road to political junkiehood as I … Continue reading Are You Ready For “10 Things We Can All Do To Protect Democracy”?
Orwell Would Appreciate This Essay on Words
Photo by ClickerHappy on Pexels.com Jennifer Rubin, formerly an opinion writer at The Washington Post, is a co-founder of The Contrarian, a new "pro-democracy media outlet" on Substack that seems to be striking a positive nerve amid the nation's anti-Trump, anti-authoritarian folks. In this period of dangerous disinformation, Rubin draws attention to the Trumpian world's … Continue reading Orwell Would Appreciate This Essay on Words
The Creepiness of Elon’s Emails
Among my plans for tomorrow, January 20, which DO NOT include watching the only convicted felon who has ever been charged with insurrection against our government take a meaningless oath he's repeatedly broken and will continue to do so, is to end my increasingly discomfiting presence on Elon Musk's X, formerly known as Twitter. I … Continue reading The Creepiness of Elon’s Emails
Please Watch/Read President Biden’s Essential Farewell Address
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5YgfNi9VGco President Biden's farewell address last night was extraordinary. Many have already compared it to Washington's farewell address and Eisenhower's warning about the military-industrial complex. (He cites the latter.) Like those presidents, Joe Biden, the plain-spoken institutionalist who always says "There is nothing we Americans can't accomplish if we work together," expressed major concerns about … Continue reading Please Watch/Read President Biden’s Essential Farewell Address
A Plethora of Good Tidings…
I have previously quoted from Jessica Craven's well-regarded, ambitious Substack newsletter: "Chop Wood, Carry Water." Craven just returned to her home in Los Angeles from travels. Though she is obviously profoundly distressed by the devastation, she jumped right in--as is her nature--to help. I felt her report of the good works that are going on … Continue reading A Plethora of Good Tidings…
That Greenland Fixation…
Far be it for me to wander into the inner recesses of the cranium beneath that strange yellow thatch perched precariously on top of the president-elect. But it seems to me that since this guy we're saddled with for a while showed us over his previous four years that he is neither a problem-solver nor … Continue reading That Greenland Fixation…
“Gaming the System” With Our Medical Care
Photo by Brett Jordan on Pexels.com The murder of the United HealthCare CEO has shone the light on how outraged Americans are about their healthcare. One can be appalled, as I was, by the premeditated murder. One can be frightened, as I also was, by the widespread depiction of his killer as a hero. I'm … Continue reading “Gaming the System” With Our Medical Care
Ringing In The New: An Acrostic Credo
Photo by Abdullah Ghatasheh on Pexels.com R elentlessly,I curate hope, whileN ot oblivious toG rievous wrongs;I nviting inN ew possibilities, moreG oodness, dare I say?I t's unfashionable,N owadays, to offerT ender overtures toH ead'n'Heart ideals thatE mbrace our days. Still--N o one, I know, isE ver won over byW oeful weariness. Annie
Adieu, 2024…
A friend from our high school days sent me a delightful e-card with snippets of New Year celebrations throughout the world. As quick traditions from various countries flash by, voices quite melodiously sing Auld Lange Syne, a song that inevitably gives me chills. Though I largely eschew commercial endorsements here, I felt it was only … Continue reading Adieu, 2024…
Jon Swift Roundup 2024 Awaits Your Visit…
This is an update of the post I wrote one year ago today. On December 25 (yesterday), a dedicated and stalwart man named Batocchio, who blogs at Vagabond Scholar, posted this year's contributions to a wonderful blogging tradition that dates back to 2007. That's when a prominent blogger named Al Weisel (pictured above), who blogged … Continue reading Jon Swift Roundup 2024 Awaits Your Visit…
Flannel Sheets and Winter Solstice
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com I awaken to the steam hissing from ancient radiators.Their aural presence fuses with the luxury of the Flannel SheetsEnswathing my body in neck-to-toe comfort--allowing me A sublime supine that Winter's Wiles are powerless to disrupt. The hissing plays out in a not-so-silent symphony with rumbles and Burbles that continue til … Continue reading Flannel Sheets and Winter Solstice
An Open Letter to Verizon’s CEO: Why Can’t Anyone Stop the Spam?
Photo by Tyler Lastovich on Pexels.com Hans Vestberg, Chairman and Chief Executive OfficerVerizonNew York, New York Dear Mr. Vestberg: In my attempts to obtain a resolution to my problem, I have spoken with a number of representatives of your company--both human and otherwise. Although I'm sure they're all top-notch employees and robots, to date none … Continue reading An Open Letter to Verizon’s CEO: Why Can’t Anyone Stop the Spam?
Smart Points to Help Us Through This Fraught Time
I’ve often quoted the wise words of Robert Hubbell, whose Today’s Edition newsletter, now on Substack, began in 2017 as a missive of comfort to his wife and three daughters who were distraught following Trump’s election. Hubbell now has far more than 65,000 subscribers—many of them grass roots activists who are angry and exhausted by … Continue reading Smart Points to Help Us Through This Fraught Time
Heroic Voices Against America’s Worst, Part Two: The Words From Judges in the Ongoing Trials of January 6th Defendants
Photo by Mark Youso on Pexels.com I truly didn't expect to return to this occasional series so soon. But with the rapidly evolving changes in our judicial/political landscape, this story seems important to tell--right now. One of the things that's been hardest for so many of us to comprehend has been voters' apparent willingness to … Continue reading Heroic Voices Against America’s Worst, Part Two: The Words From Judges in the Ongoing Trials of January 6th Defendants
Heroic Voices Against America’s Worst (An Occasional Series)
This period when Trump is testing how far he can push before his All-Retribution-All-The-Time (and Billionaires-Take-All) presidential administration begins in January is extremely important. My goal here is to bring you the words of those who are in especially vulnerable positions, but are demonstrating the steely grit and determination to speak their minds. They inspire … Continue reading Heroic Voices Against America’s Worst (An Occasional Series)
Curing Those Ailing Ballots, Volunteers Help Dems Cut the House Republican Lead Even Further
Vote by Mail archives montanafreepress.org The final House seat has been decided: Democrat Adam Gray was officially declared the victor, flipping another California seat from red to blue. Gray's 187-vote victory resulted from the tireless work of volunteers, who helped voters correct (cure) ballots that had been rejected for minor technical errors, thereby making their … Continue reading Curing Those Ailing Ballots, Volunteers Help Dems Cut the House Republican Lead Even Further
Behold! Eager Beavers Are Climate Heroes!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w4FB9Omjn94 Who knew? Beavers' industrious work in building dams is so beneficial that NASA has been studying their efforts and working with them. These dams actually create wetlands, which are both helpful in their own right and are also protective against forest fires, floods, and droughts. These cheery bits of information appear in the little … Continue reading Behold! Eager Beavers Are Climate Heroes!
Will We Feed Them In May As We Did In November?
Many years ago, an essay I wrote bearing the above title appeared in our county newspaper. I'd been talking to the folks at the distribution point where some hungry members of our community were picking up food parcels. In our relatively affluent county, in this very wealthy country, what's now called "food insecurity" had begun … Continue reading Will We Feed Them In May As We Did In November?
Some Thoughtful Observations About Disinformation…
https://twitter.com/BarbMcQuade/status/1858213995809026176 It's clear that disinformation played a significant role in the election. The Russians and other foreign bad actors sure brought their "A game." So did Elon Musk, whose PAC apparently was doing mischief such as telling Muslims in Michigan that Trump (he of the Muslim travel ban) had their best interest at heart, while … Continue reading Some Thoughtful Observations About Disinformation…
Fighting Back: The Next 66 Days; The Next Two Years…
On Wednesday night, I was one of more than 50,000 people who spent an hour Zooming about how to stanch the post-election bleeding. The call was co-hosted by Ezra Levin and Leah Greenberg, co-founders and co-directors of the nationwide grass roots citizens organization Indivisible. I wrote about Indivisible previously. Last night I learned that both … Continue reading Fighting Back: The Next 66 Days; The Next Two Years…
This Humorist Is Seriously Trying to Help US Place the November 5th Disaster in Historical Perspective
Andy Borowitz is a veryveryvery witty and wildly imaginative man. After The New Yorker ended the twenty-five year run of his satirical column last December for financial reasons, he found a new home for The Borowitz Report (TBR). It appears on Substack, which is attracting an abundance of terrific writers who offer tantalizing views of … Continue reading This Humorist Is Seriously Trying to Help US Place the November 5th Disaster in Historical Perspective
I’m Sad…and Scared…and Fighting Mad. You?
I'm Sad... For the lost opportunity to seat the exemplary Kamala Harris in the Oval Office. She showed us in just 107 days how she could organize, inspire, and lead a diverse coalition of Americans around the principles of democracy and the rule of law, decency, compassion, community, and opportunity. I took the photo above … Continue reading I’m Sad…and Scared…and Fighting Mad. You?
When Can We Expect Election Results From the Swing States?
This is information the Harris campaign reportedly sent to a canvasser (@Ayden posted on Twitter): From election lawyer extraordinaire Marc Elias (Democracy Docket): Results will take a while "The processing and tabulation of ballots will take many hours, or days. In 2020, it took until Saturday for the networks to call the election for Biden. … Continue reading When Can We Expect Election Results From the Swing States?
Please Indulge Me in a Bit of Election-Related Whimsy…
Some of you may recognize the basic image above. For those who don't, it's a word game called SPELLING BEE that appears in The New York Times. Though there are new puzzles daily, I reserve my efforts for the print edition that's found in the Sunday Magazine. It's one of the few things I still … Continue reading Please Indulge Me in a Bit of Election-Related Whimsy…
As Election Day Approaches: Some Inspiration and Information…
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U6bv6jYEVAs From whenweallvote.org (Michelle Obama's organization): What are my rights as a voter? If you’re in line when polls are supposed to close, stay in line – you have the right to vote. If you make a mistake on your ballot, ask for a new one. If the machines are down at your polling place, … Continue reading As Election Day Approaches: Some Inspiration and Information…
For Those Who Feel Uncomfortable About Efforts to Protect Abortion…
This is a short film that brings to life the reality of an unwanted pregnancy in a gripping, believable manner. Nominated for an Academy Award in 2023, it is available for viewing free on YouTube from now until the election. Please use this link to view the film. It is slightly slow and deliberative but eventually packs a … Continue reading For Those Who Feel Uncomfortable About Efforts to Protect Abortion…
Welcome to the Post-Trump Era…
https://www.youtube.com/live/OSTleAR0L_0?t=5725s I think of the infamous Access Hollywood tape and last week's Madison Square Garden hatefest as the bookends of Trump's political career. The first showed that Donald Trump could get away with stuff that would have sunk any other politician. The other, I believe, will increase the odds that Kamala Harris will be our … Continue reading Welcome to the Post-Trump Era…
Reposting a Lucid, Rational Essay About a Likely Blue Wave
Blogging friend Infidel753 has written a thoughtful, analytical piece that is based largely on the same belief that I have held for some time. It is also one of the key reasons that Democratic strategist Simon Rosenberg, who was correct in 2022 that there would be no red wave, is now saying: "We are winning, … Continue reading Reposting a Lucid, Rational Essay About a Likely Blue Wave
Some Interspecies Friendships
A few smiles in these pre-election days! (Note: I'm having serious problems with WP embedding links from Twitter. If the links don't open after a few seconds, I hope you'll click on them anyway.) https://twitter.com/buitengebieden/status/1847916009467818114?s=51&t=nVuexwyjz5lAYgTHGa2APw (Image attached to a Twitter post from @DashHound7) https://twitter.com/buitengebieden/status/1840825136481767542?s=51&t=nVuexwyjz5lAYgTHGa2APw https://twitter.com/buitengebieden/status/1845400469402743049?s=51&t=nVuexwyjz5lAYgTHGa2APw https://twitter.com/buitengebieden/status/1845084459357569290?s=51&t=nVuexwyjz5lAYgTHGa2APw https://twitter.com/buitengebieden/status/1847176353457582407?s=51&t=nVuexwyjz5lAYgTHGa2APw This one is a Must Watch! Annie
Grandpa: We Don’t Think You Should Have the Keys to Our Nuclear Codes…
https://twitter.com/gtconway3d/status/1847944807848489080?s=51&t=nVuexwyjz5lAYgTHGa2APw (Sara Spector identifies herself as a "Political and Legal Pundit and Midland Texas Criminal Defense Attorney.") From Heather Cox Richardson: "A number of people telling me we all need a night off had almost convinced me not to write tonight. "But then Trump spoke at a rally in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, where he told a … Continue reading Grandpa: We Don’t Think You Should Have the Keys to Our Nuclear Codes…
With the World on Your Shoulders, You Forge Ahead–An Open Letter to Kamala Harris
https://twitter.com/KamalaHQ/status/1846682157852377415 Dear Madam VP: You are "everywhere all at once,"Demonstrating with your indefatigable Appearances a new clean energy Source for the USA. On Wednesday, you brought politicalInnovation to a historic place,Speaking outdoors in Washington Crossing, PA,Where our first president led his troopsAcross the Delaware River during theRevolutionary War. The symbolic setting was apt, as youRecognize … Continue reading With the World on Your Shoulders, You Forge Ahead–An Open Letter to Kamala Harris
Some Encouraging News From the Field…
Well, since everyone is saying it will be a close election--including David Plouffe, a senior advisor to the Harris campaign who steered Obama's win in 2008--I'm not going to indulge in fantasy blogging at this point. (You can watch the Plouffe interview here if you like.) Plouffe does say, however, what Simon Rosenberg keeps saying: … Continue reading Some Encouraging News From the Field…
On the Loss of a Dear Friend
It may seem to be a cliché to refer to someone as sui generis. I don't do so often, but I feel fortunate to have known several people in my life who fit that description. The friend whose memorial service I attended last week had an abundance of diverse talents and attributes that made him … Continue reading On the Loss of a Dear Friend
How Important Is Your Single Vote? Remember This…?
https://twitter.com/DNCWarRoom/status/1777813378183954900 On April 13, 2024, I posted "If You Think Your Single Vote Doesn't Matter, Here's Compelling Evidence to the Contrary..." I offer it again now as a factual argument that you can make with anyone in your life who is not motivated to vote in this election. Perhaps that person believes that a single … Continue reading How Important Is Your Single Vote? Remember This…?
The “Here Comes the Red Wave” Polling Antics Are With Us Again
https://twitter.com/simonwdc/status/1840102572834861507?s=51&t=nVuexwyjz5lAYgTHGa2APw After repeatedly saying "Ignore the polls," why am I bothering you with this stuff now? Because as Simon Rosenberg notes in the tweet above, shenanigans are again proliferating. Rosenberg, you may recall, has been my guru on polling matters since his 2022 lonely but accurate assessment that there would be no red wave. As … Continue reading The “Here Comes the Red Wave” Polling Antics Are With Us Again
The Shapeshifter v. The Truth Teller: A Review of the VP Debate in Rhyme
Photo by Brett Sayles on Pexels.com That Vance guy sure is oily slick;He tried to pull off quite the trick:Create a Trump out of whole cloth,Replace the traitor who spews forthVileness, hate, nonsense, and liesRe: migrants, Harris...his crowd size. The Trump in Vance-imaginationFixed our deeply troubled nationWith wisdom, strength, & honor too...Don't I remember? Nah! … Continue reading The Shapeshifter v. The Truth Teller: A Review of the VP Debate in Rhyme
The Press Keeps Asking Kamala Harris for REAL Positions on the Economy and Immigration, S0…
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QeGWT7ard5U The major media have been relentless in claiming Harris has not offered any substantive positions on the economy and immigration. On the former, they must have missed all her stump speeches, delivered to standing room-only audiences, in which she speaks about her proposed initiatives to make housing more affordable by building more housing and … Continue reading The Press Keeps Asking Kamala Harris for REAL Positions on the Economy and Immigration, S0…
Roses, Lotuses, Kamala, and US
ENERGETIC PERSISTENCE I derive fresh delight from the youngest members of our garden family. Until recently, the roses of my acquaintance were the lovely taut variety with long prickly stems.This narrow world view led me to momentary disappointment when the gardener's pick first began to bloom. Where were the long-stemmed beauties? Silly me. Our new … Continue reading Roses, Lotuses, Kamala, and US
How Do We Respond to Assaults on Our Nation of Immigrants?
https://twitter.com/atrupar/status/1836517549166760388?s=51&t=nVuexwyjz5lAYgTHGa2APw We are demonstrably a nation of immigrants--apart from the Indigenous people who preceded us and whose treatment by the early white settlers remains our first Original Sin. That Sin was followed, of course, by slavery, which is such a painful and significant part of our history that some politicians who want to deny our … Continue reading How Do We Respond to Assaults on Our Nation of Immigrants?
URGENT! PLEASE CALL YOUR SENATORS…
Vote by Mail archives montanafreepress.org US Postmaster General Louis DeJoy is either very bad at his job or--worse. Early voting has begun. We need to make it clear to our senators that we will not tolerate the delays and other problems that are plaguing the postal service and jeopardizing the handling of mail-in ballots. This … Continue reading URGENT! PLEASE CALL YOUR SENATORS…
That Face, That Face: That Lovely, Instructive Face…
https://twitter.com/doggintrump/status/1834049818580422765?s=51&t=nVuexwyjz5lAYgTHGa2APw As I noted in my post-"debate" post, I felt that VP Harris used her very expressive face to respond to Trump's lies most effectively. As you can see from the tweet above, the self-described teacher felt the same way. (You may have to click on the link to see all ten photos.) However, perhaps … Continue reading That Face, That Face: That Lovely, Instructive Face…
She Invaded His Space, Messed With His Head, and Showed SHE’S the Commander in Chief
https://twitter.com/anneapplebaum/status/1833819249971757348?s=51&t=nVuexwyjz5lAYgTHGa2APw As Pennsylvania is a "must-win" state for both VP Harris and Donald Trump, this line may turn out to be the most important in the ninety-minute non-debate debate last night. Anne Applebaum is an American historian and journalist who also holds Polish citizenship. If the "mass celebrations" she saw in Warsaw translate into just … Continue reading She Invaded His Space, Messed With His Head, and Showed SHE’S the Commander in Chief
Looking Toward Tuesday’s “Debate” Between the Prosecutor and the Felonious Traitor
In my title for this post, "Looking Toward" does not mean "Looking Forward to." I wish VP Harris did not have to face Trump, inevitably elevating him by her presence. (There's still a chance he'll invent a reason not to appear--perhaps a conspiracy or made-up story--but I know he realizes he has to try to … Continue reading Looking Toward Tuesday’s “Debate” Between the Prosecutor and the Felonious Traitor
Some Happy Stuff to Begin September
We are visiting delightful friends in their lovely Martha’s Vineyard home, so I haven’t had much time for blogging/commenting. But I did want to offer some fun videos from my favorite Twitter guy—including more panda-monium. https://twitter.com/buitengebieden/status/1828052964331663823?s=46&t=nVuexwyjz5lAYgTHGa2APw https://twitter.com/buitengebieden/status/1828818388438979052?s=46&t=nVuexwyjz5lAYgTHGa2APw https://twitter.com/buitengebieden/status/1828546229984264546?s=46&t=nVuexwyjz5lAYgTHGa2APw https://twitter.com/buitengebieden/status/1828387819733049767?s=46&t=nVuexwyjz5lAYgTHGa2APw https://twitter.com/buitengebieden/status/1829980471326879783?s=46&t=nVuexwyjz5lAYgTHGa2APw I’m posting via my phone; if there’s an odd block or big space, please excuse … Continue reading Some Happy Stuff to Begin September
While We Must NOT Be Complacent, This Info Is Very Good News!
https://twitter.com/tbonier/status/1828580646798672262 You've probably heard about the sharp rise in voter registration since Kamala Harris began her presidential campaign. For those who aren't familiar with Tom Bonier, he was Democratic strategist Simon Rosenberg's partner in 2022, when they stated emphatically--based on their studies of actual voter trends--that there would be no red wave. They were ridiculed … Continue reading While We Must NOT Be Complacent, This Info Is Very Good News!
DO SOMETHING!
If you're feeling upset and frustrated about events you feel you can't control, consider how you might volunteer to effect change. And please don't tell me "I voted in 2020 and nothing's perfect." Democracy is worth the sustained effort to move it forward. This is a critically important election.
Joy, Healing and Transformation
Something amazing happened this week at the Democratic National Convention! Something joyful, something healing, something transformative! Like all … Joy, Healing and Transformation Note: I posted brief snippets about portions of each of the four days of the Democratic National Convention. I had thought that I’d pull all my thoughts together after I’d had some … Continue reading Joy, Healing and Transformation
Day Four DNC: Where’s Kamala? On the Cusp of the Presidency, That’s Where!
https://twitter.com/gtconway3d/status/1826936920254906569?s=51&t=nVuexwyjz5lAYgTHGa2APw In the title of one of my posts about the widespread tendency to underestimate Kamala Harris, I borrowed the question "Where's Kamala?" from a Twitter site dedicated to following the vice president and documenting her many diverse accomplishments. That site no longer exists, but if you watched Harris's speech last night, I trust you'll … Continue reading Day Four DNC: Where’s Kamala? On the Cusp of the Presidency, That’s Where!
Day Three DNC: Videos Worth Sharing
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mf0u5MJEjhw Political devotee that I am, I'm enjoying every minute of this historic convention. But I'm also accumulating a sleep deficit, so I'm entering the "all good things must come to an end" stage. And though the planning and staging of these events have demonstrated creative and innovative minds at work, I think the organizers … Continue reading Day Three DNC: Videos Worth Sharing
annieasksyou... 