SULLIVAN'S SALVOS
May 26, 2008
Sullivan’s Salvos 5/27/08
Happy Memorial Day! Thanks to all who have served, particularly those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
The upcoming primaries have an interesting twist. In Johnson County, many longtime local Republicans vote in every Democratic Primary. This makes sense; they recognize that their best shot at influencing the ultimate outcome is to register as a Dem, then vote for the most conservative candidate in the Democratic Primary.
I have never done this myself, though I know people of both parties who do. It has always felt intellectually dishonest to me. I know I’m not a Republican; therefore, I should not interfere in their affairs. That said, there are many people who straddle the fence when it comes to politics– I have no issue with those folks following their instincts.
The GOP folks are faced with a dilemma this year. Because there is a hotly contested Republican Congressional race, Republicans in Johnson County will need to decide if they prefer to weigh in on local government or help choose the GOP opponent for Dave Loebsack. When you show up to vote in a primary, you have to choose one party or the other, so these folks cannot vote on both issues.
It will be interesting to see if local conservatives put more weight on choosing a Congressional candidate or put more on local elections. I would assume there will be a big push from the GOP candidates to get their voters to stay home and vote Republican.
At the same time, lots of recognizable GOP yards have Supervisor yard signs. (Not many have mine. But I have a few GOP supporters.) Lots of local Republicans have donated to campaigns; one Democratic candidate has received campaign contributions from literally three dozen or more Republicans. Do these GOP folks choose to donate, but then vote in the other primary? I guess time will tell.
From a personal perspective, I just hope Democrats vote!
I am a big fan of our Department of Public Health, often singing its praises. But even a booster like me was impressed by this tidbit:
Americans in the year 2000 live 30 years longer on average than Americans did in 1900. Of this 30-year increase in lifespan, 25 years can be directly attributed to public health initiatives. (Clean drinking water, improved sewage systems, improved food safety, vaccinations, disease prevention, and much more.)
The recent Postville raids bring two issues to mind:
First, our Congress and Supreme Court GUARANTEES the right of Coca Cola and other multinationals to sell their products in Mexico. They GUARANTEE companies the right to move their operations to Matamoros. The verdict is clear – we will not interfere with capitalism.
That is, unless the labor force wants to cross the border. That simply must not be allowed! What kind of world would we have if actual people got the same rights as corporations?
Secondly, the State of Iowa is running into all sorts of problems due to the ill-conceived “English Only” law that was signed by former Governor Tom Vilsack.
Vilsack should be ashamed that he signed this racist, xenophobic, unwelcoming, unproductive piece of legislation. It comes as no surprise that this legislation is causing Iowa problems.
It is also frustrating to hear Senate Majority Leader Mike Gronstal say that the Legislature will not repeal this horrible law. Why on Earth not? He should be ashamed, too.
The recent UI flap over benefits makes me want to say, “I told you so.” Remember just 3 short years ago when P&S staff decided not to unionize? Unless workers assert some control in the workplace, they will continue to lose benefits.
You are invited to the world premier of a 90 minute documentary "A Friend Indeed: the Bill Sackter Story" to be held at Hancher Auditorium, Saturday, June 7th at 7PM.
The film was produced by Iowa Citian and Emmy award winning documentarian Lane Wyrick, with music composed by Iowa Citian Peter Bloesch. For reserved tickets ($10) call the Hancher Box Office at 335-1160.
The Iowa Policy Project is looking for original writings on water quality. Writers for this project may be anyone: farmers, students, seniors, researchers, advocates, fishers and boaters. Whatever their background, participants will share a common characteristic – people who have thought carefully about Iowa’s water. IPP will also be accepting black and white photographs featuring Iowa water. Prizes will be awarded to the top three submissions in each category – first prize will be $500; second, $250; and third $100. IPP hopes this contest ultimately advances policy that will improve Iowa’s water quality. Essays and/or photographs should be submitted by July 11, 2008. Please send your submission to: Teresa Galluzzo, Iowa Policy Project, 120 N. Dubuque Street #208, Iowa City, IA 52245 or tgalluzzo@iowapolicyproject.org. 319.338.0773.
DID YOU KNOW? Iowa is the third largest producer of wind energy in the US, just behind California and Texas. (Source: Iowa Energy Center.)
Anyone interested in learning more about County government should take a look at the County website-
www.johnson-county.com.
"Sullivan’s Salvos" is sent once per week to any interested party. It will give a brief update on issues of interest to Johnson County residents.
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As always, feel free to contact me at 354-7199 or rodsullivan@mchsi.com. I look forward to serving you!
---Rod
posted by Rod Sullivan @ 4:24 PM
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