Paul Rozycki, long-time political science professor and “Outstanding Retiree Award” winner, continues to be a popular commentator and served that function today at Club. (He is in the center of above photo, with West Flint Optimist Club President Rich Lewis on the left and “Judge Joe” Farah, who brought Paul in as today’s speaker, on the right.) Paul gave an overview of the general phenomena of the “mid-term” elections, usually a boon for “out-of-power” political parties, noting that the usual predictions may not apply in the upcoming election, especially in light of the polarization of candidates and party preferences. The usual “pendulum swing” of voters does not seem to be occurring and the prospects of increasing redistricting movements, diminished impact of major cash infusions into campaigns, and reduced “Party Platform” clarity combine with electorate anger and activism to destabilize the predictive process. Particular races to watch include the “Rogers rerun/ El-Sayed Progressivism” contest, “James v. Benson” for Governor matchup, and Chris Swanson’s strong support locally and poor showing away from the area presenting interesting questions about his future direction. “Party bosses versus Primaries” as winnowers of candidates also is another interesting discussed dynamic.
Thanks, Paul, for returning to our group, and thanks, Joe, for bringing in this timely and knowledgeable speaker!
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Governor Bill Reaves’ absences, related to his mother’s health, may be less complicated now that she seems to be in recovery and in support care. He is thrilled that she has been recognizing him and saying, “Hi!” on seeing him.
Steve Schlott, after speaking with Jeff Gauger, reports that the recent Sleep in Heavenly Peace Build Day in Millington went beautifully, with 52 beds built by 90+ volunteers in a lovely and comfortable outdoor pavilion venue. With a current 100-bed inventory, Steve is suggesting we gather an Assembly crew for next Thursday after Club. (Let him know if you can help!)
“Marshall” Phil Holmblade will be working the Ally Challenge next week and will miss Club. He has his area of responsibility covered but that other volunteer options remain at the event, especially those calling for “able-bodied” workers.
If anyone wants to “split” the purchase of a Lions Game ticket, Phil would gladly offer to do so.
John Farah has yet another new “grandchild”, per “Cousin Joe”, who shamefully broke into “Mamas, Don’t Let Yer Babies Grow Up to Be Brokers…”, playing entertainment trivia with the Club about the song whose lyrics were corrupted in order to do this dreadful thing and about the use of “little known codicil”, one of Joe’s preferred deflection strategies and proof that Joe’s knowledge of the law is, indeed, broad.
“Fine-al Activity”:
Joe Farah was fined by Steve Schlott for “arriving early at the meeting and still not greeting all his fellow Club members.”
“TailTwister” Jack Medemar, burdened by the great responsibility of trying to fill the chamber pot that he wields like a weapon, fined “all those who have not proposed a fine”.
Steve passed another fine “against anyone not entering into any CRIM activity this weekend”.
Greg Hilliker managed to get a fine through against Joe Farah for being “OBviously OBtuse and OBstructionistic” even though his “OBnoxious” socks were another source of consternation. In clear retribution, Joe fined Greg for “O-word preoccupation”.
Jeff Dennings once again had a chance to win the “50/50 Progressive Pot” of $396 but picked the Diamond “3” instead of “Her Royal Highness”.
SPEAKERS:
August 27 – Our own Member Deb Hawley will update us about St. Francis Prayer Center.
September 3 – Traci Pigott from CANUSA/CRIM, will be here to talk with us.
Until next time, “Promise Yourself…”