In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen takes you on an inspiring journey through a series of uplifting stories that highlight progress and resilience amidst challenging times. We begin with a remarkable shift in public sentiment, as nearly 80% of Americans now view immigration positively—the highest level of optimism in 25 years. This change reflects a growing recognition of the benefits immigrants bring to our society, transcending political divides and promoting a more inclusive narrative.
Next, we celebrate New Jersey's groundbreaking legislation aimed at providing universal, high-quality early education for all children. Governor Phil Murphy's new law mandates full-day kindergarten by 2030 and expands access to preschool, ensuring that families across the state can benefit from foundational learning opportunities that foster economic mobility and address educational disparities.
Missouri also makes headlines with a significant reform that protects the financial futures of vulnerable children in foster care. By ending the practice of seizing foster children's Social Security benefits to cover care costs, the state is prioritizing the needs of these young individuals and setting a higher standard for child welfare.
We then turn our attention to a historic expedition by Indigenous youth who are paddling 300 miles down the Klamath River, marking a cultural reclamation following the removal of hydroelectric dams. This journey not only symbolizes healing and sovereignty for the tribes but also highlights the resilience of the river's ecosystem as salmon populations begin to thrive once again.
Lastly, we discuss the preparations for a strike by concession workers at Fenway Park, who are advocating for fair wages and job security amidst rising automation. Their efforts underscore the importance of human connection in creating a vibrant community experience at the ballpark.
Join us for this empowering episode filled with stories of hope and the belief that positive change is not only possible but actively unfolding around us!
If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share, we’d love to hear from you! Call or message us at 202-656-6271 or drop us a line at beowulf@twosquaredmediaproductions.com.
You can find more about this week's stories here:
https://apnews.com/article/immigration-polling-trump-deportation-d138992f803e2d0b5b399aa9eaa36581
https://newjerseymonitor.com/2025/07/11/free-pre-k-kindergarten-expanded-under-new-law-signed-by-governor/
https://missouriindependent.com/2025/07/09/missouri-governor-signs-bill-banning-state-from-seizing-foster-kids-benefits/
https://www.cnn.com/travel/klamath-river-indigenous-paddle-c2e-spc
https://www.cbsnews.com/boston/news/fenway-park-workers-strike-2-day-deadline/
https://techstartups.com/2025/07/09/youtube-to-demonetize-ai-generated-videos-starting-july-15/
More good daily news for democracy on Facebook, Bluesky, and Instagram.
Thanks to Rosabelle Heine and Aaron Watson for production assistance.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-and-america-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.
Next, we celebrate New Jersey's groundbreaking legislation aimed at providing universal, high-quality early education for all children. Governor Phil Murphy's new law mandates full-day kindergarten by 2030 and expands access to preschool, ensuring that families across the state can benefit from foundational learning opportunities that foster economic mobility and address educational disparities.
Missouri also makes headlines with a significant reform that protects the financial futures of vulnerable children in foster care. By ending the practice of seizing foster children's Social Security benefits to cover care costs, the state is prioritizing the needs of these young individuals and setting a higher standard for child welfare.
We then turn our attention to a historic expedition by Indigenous youth who are paddling 300 miles down the Klamath River, marking a cultural reclamation following the removal of hydroelectric dams. This journey not only symbolizes healing and sovereignty for the tribes but also highlights the resilience of the river's ecosystem as salmon populations begin to thrive once again.
Lastly, we discuss the preparations for a strike by concession workers at Fenway Park, who are advocating for fair wages and job security amidst rising automation. Their efforts underscore the importance of human connection in creating a vibrant community experience at the ballpark.
Join us for this empowering episode filled with stories of hope and the belief that positive change is not only possible but actively unfolding around us!
If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share, we’d love to hear from you! Call or message us at 202-656-6271 or drop us a line at beowulf@twosquaredmediaproductions.com.
You can find more about this week's stories here:
https://apnews.com/article/immigration-polling-trump-deportation-d138992f803e2d0b5b399aa9eaa36581
https://newjerseymonitor.com/2025/07/11/free-pre-k-kindergarten-expanded-under-new-law-signed-by-governor/
https://missouriindependent.com/2025/07/09/missouri-governor-signs-bill-banning-state-from-seizing-foster-kids-benefits/
https://www.cnn.com/travel/klamath-river-indigenous-paddle-c2e-spc
https://www.cbsnews.com/boston/news/fenway-park-workers-strike-2-day-deadline/
https://techstartups.com/2025/07/09/youtube-to-demonetize-ai-generated-videos-starting-july-15/
More good daily news for democracy on Facebook, Bluesky, and Instagram.
Thanks to Rosabelle Heine and Aaron Watson for production assistance.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-and-america-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:06):
Good News for Lefties and America. Hello, and thanks for
joining another episode of Good News for Lefties. I'm Beowulf Rocklin,
your host, ready to help you swap out doom and
gloom for some genuine hope with uplifting stories for democracy defenders, progressives, liberals, leftists,
(00:28):
and anyone who believes in making America a better place
for everyone. It's no secret that these are challenging times.
A Trump desperately trying to distract America from his name
in the Epstein files, the disappearing of immigrants and citizens alike,
the wholesale destruction of critical government agencies. Today's headlines often
(00:51):
overwhelm us with troubling news, making it all too easy
to lose sight of hope. That's exactly why it's vital
to highlight the pause sitive real world progress that's happening
every day, progress that too often gets drowned out by
the negativity. Despite the setbacks, there's genuinely good movement toward
(01:11):
a better America. So let these stories serve as a
reminder that change is not just possible, it's happening. Carry
this hope with you and share it with others. Today,
let's kick off with some good news headlines designed to
brighten your day. Americans' attitudes toward immigration have reached new
heights of positivity, with nearly eight inten adults now saying
(01:35):
that immigration is a good thing for the United States.
This marks a significant jump from sixty four percent a
year ago, and is the most optimistic measure in twenty
five years of Gallop polling. The trend reflects a broadening
embrace of immigration's value, cutting across political affiliations and signaling
(01:55):
powerful momentum for inclusion even amidst ongoing national debates and
challenging federal policies. The shift is particularly notable among Independents
and Republicans, demographics that typically lean more cautious on the issue.
Support for the idea that immigrants benefit of the country
has soared among Republicans, rising from just thirty nine percent
(02:18):
last year to about two thirds now. Independence showed a
comparable leap, with eighty percent now expressing positive views about immigration.
At the same time, the percentage of Americans who see
immigration as a negative has dropped to just twenty percent,
representing a dramatic decline from previous years. Americans are also
(02:41):
increasingly content with immigration levels, with just thirty percent now
saying immigration should decrease, down from fifty five percent a
year ago. More people than ever before prefer to keep
immigration levels the same or even see them increased. The
change in climate is also fueling growing support for pathways
to citizenship, with the vast majority of US adults now
(03:05):
favoring policies that allow immigrants living in the country without
legal status to earn citizenship, especially for those brought to
the US as children. These findings point to a hopeful
and pragmatic turn in the national conversation, with more Americans
recognizing the benefits of a diverse and welcoming society even
(03:26):
in the face of tough enforcement policies and political rhetoric.
The public support for immigrants and desire for solutions that
honor dignity and opportunity continues to rise, a sign that
the values of inclusion and community are resonating more powerfully
than ever before. New Jersey is poised to deliver universal,
(03:48):
high quality early education for all children under new legislation
signed by Governor Phil Murphy on July ninth, twenty twenty five.
The ambitious law expands free pre school to more districts
and requires every school district in the state to offer
full day kindergarten by twenty thirty, building on years of
(04:08):
progress that have already added twenty thousand preschool seats in
two hundred and twenty nine districts since twenty eighteen. The
state now invests one point two billion dollars annually in
public preschool, supporting roughly eighty thousand three and four year olds,
but the new law codifies and strengthens the funding formula
(04:28):
and expands both preschool and kindergarten access for families statewide.
The legislation mandates that all remaining districts, nearly half of
which still lack public preschool and ten that do not
offer all day kindergarten, achieve these goals in the coming years.
To support these efforts, the new policy creates a three
(04:49):
year preschool cost sharing pilot program, requires annual preschool expansion grants,
and establishes a committee to guide the statewide impl It
also demands that state agencies provide clear, accessible preschool information
online and that they annually report progress to lawmakers, ensuring
(05:10):
transparency and continuous improvement. Governor Murphy said that universal free
preschool in kindergarten aren't just education policy, but a powerful
strategy for affordability and economic mobility. By lowering out of
pocket costs for working families and providing foundational learning that
(05:30):
sets children up for lifelong success, the new law addresses
both the affordability crisis and long standing disparities in early
childhood opportunities. These initiatives build on the legacy of Abbot districts,
where universal preschool began as a remedy for funding inequities,
helping to close achievement gaps and lift up entire communities. Policymakers, educators,
(05:57):
and advocates across New Jersey are hailing this expansion as
a game changer for families. Universal early education will deliver
not only immediate relief in childcare costs, but also lasting
benefits in school readiness and social emotional development, reshaping the
state's future workforce and quality of life for generations to come.
(06:20):
Before we get back to the news, I want to
tell you about an important podcast called This Week Again,
hosted by Suzanne Posel. It takes a humorous look at
politics and current events one week at a time. It's
a funny, angry, progressive, sarcastic, hilarious podcast that drops every Sunday,
and in my opinion, is the largest single repository of
(06:43):
creatively insulting names for Donald Trump. Mango Mussolini, and Orange
Julius Caesar are just the beginning. So if you want
to recap of the week and you want a laugh
into the bargain, listen to This Week Again with Suzanne
Posel on this platform or wherever you listen to podcasts.
That's This Week Again with Suzanne Posel, s USA, N
(07:06):
N pose E L. This Week Again, Listen, laugh, repeat.
Missouri has taken a major step to protect the financial
future of its most vulnerable children. Starting August twenty eighth,
the state will end the long standing practice of seizing
(07:26):
foster children's social security and survivor benefits to recoup the
cost of their foster care. Instead, these funds will now
be reserved for the children's own unmet needs and future planning,
such as housing and education as they prepare to age
out of the system. This ensures that kids who are
orphaned or have disabilities are no longer forced to pay
(07:49):
for their time in state custody through personal benefits intended
specifically for them. This reform, signed into law by Governor
Mike keyho and sponsored by Representative Melissa Schmidt and Senator
Jamie Berger, won broad bipartisan support. For years, Missouri's Children's
Division used millions of dollars each year from the federal
(08:09):
benefits of foster youth, over ten million dollars in twenty
twenty four a loan to pay for routine foster care costs.
That practice often left children exiting care with none of
the resources meant to help them transition to independence. Under
the new law, these benefits must be used for the
children's own extra needs and can no longer be diverted
(08:32):
to cover basic foster care expenses. The legislation comes as
part of a broader child welfare package. In addition to
the ban on seizing foster kid's benefits, it also includes
an end to child marriage for anyone under eighteen, increased
tax credits for youth programs, and stronger protections against the
(08:53):
use of non disclosure agreements to silence victims of childhood's
sexual abuse. The law law also improves transparency and rights
for families navigating the child welfare system. Advocates and lawmakers,
including House Minority Leader Ashley On, hailed the measure as
a long needed act of stewardship and dignity for children
(09:15):
in state care. By ensuring that financial resources set aside
for foster youth truly reached them, Missouri is setting a
higher standard for supporting the aspirations and stability of young
people in state custody. A historic and inspiring journey is
nearing completion as a group of young Indigenous kayakers paddled
(09:35):
three hundred miles down the Klamath River from its headwaters
in southern Oregon to its mouth at the Pacific Ocean
in California. This marks the first time in a century
that such a descent has been possible following the removal
of four hydroelectric dams that had blocked the river for
more than one hundred years. The dam removal was part
(09:57):
of the largest dam removal project in the United State
Date's history, completed by late twenty twenty four, which has
already allowed the river to begin a natural recovery and
salmon populations to rapidly return to upstream habitats. This expedition
is both a physical and cultural reclamation led by youth
from tribes such as the Kirok and Urrak, who view
(10:20):
the Klamath as a living relative and vital to their identity.
Kayakers Ruby Williams and Kiahwiki described the journey as reclaiming
their river and their sport while pursuing justice for their people.
The river historically supported the third largest salmon population in
the US West Coast, but dam construction between nineteen eighteen
(10:42):
and nineteen sixty six had devastated fish passages and tribal livelihoods.
Removing the dams reopened over four hundred miles of historic
fish habitat almost immediately, with thousands of Chinook salmon observed
migrating upstream within weeks of completion, demonstrating the resilience of
the ecosystem and the power of restoration. Restoration efforts continue
(11:05):
beyond the dam removal itself, involving reshaping river channels, removing
sediment accumulated behind reservoirs, planting native vegetation, and utilizing innovative
techniques like helicopter placement of down trees to rebuild crucial
fish habitat. These are collaborative projects involving local tribes, conservation organizations,
(11:27):
and restoration firms working together to heal the river basin.
The Kayak Journey symbolizes healing and sovereignty for the indigenous tribes,
highlighting a reassertion of their cultural heritage and stewardship over
ancestral lands that had been disrupted for generations. As the
young Paddlers complete their month long historic journey, hopes are
(11:48):
high for their continuing roles in advocacy, education, and cultural
renewal tied to the Klamath River. Up next, a listener
suggested story back in a minute and now. A listener
suggested story from Maria in Quincy, Massachusetts. Concession workers at
(12:09):
Fenway Park and MGM Music Hall in Boston are preparing
to strike if a new contract agreement is not reached.
The union, representing about one thousand Era Mark workers, Unite
Here Local twenty six, has been bargaining for six months,
seeking fair wages comparable to similar jobs in Boston and
safeguards against automation reducing jobs. The strike would last three days,
(12:35):
coinciding with the Boston Red Sox home series against the
Los Angeles Dodgers. One key issue driving the strike is
low wages. Fenway concession workers make about eighteen dollars an hour,
significantly less than similar positions at nearby universities and other
ballparks Another concern is the rising use of self checkout
(12:58):
kiosks replacing staff. Union president Carlos Aramayo emphasized that automation
jeopardizes not only jobs, but also safety and quality of service,
pointing to risks like overserving alcohol and miners accessing it
through machines. Workers also lament the loss of tips with
(13:18):
automated systems and stress that human interaction is essential to
the Fenway experience. Union members have asked fans attending the
Dodgers series to show solidarity by not purchasing food and
drink items inside Fenway Park during the potential strike. Workers
describe themselves as the soul of Fenway, highlighting the important
(13:39):
cultural and hospitality role they play in creating the unique
Fenway experience that draws visitors beyond just the game itself.
Several workers balance Fenway jobs with second jobs like teaching,
which underscores their dedication despite low pay and challenging conditions.
As tensions continue, support for the workers has extended to
(14:01):
prominent voices, including Red Sox pitcher Lucas Giolito, who emphasized
the importance of fair compensation for all roles that make
the ballpark operate. Thanks so much for that story, Maria.
If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share,
we'd love to hear from you. Call or message us
(14:22):
at two zero two six five six six' to two
seven to. One drop us a line at beowulf at
two Squared Media productions dot, com or send it to
us at Good news For lefties On, Facebook instagram or Blue.
Sky YouTube has started enforcing updated monetization policies that will
(14:42):
affect many creators who rely heavily ON ai generated content
or mass produced. Videos the platform's revised rules aim to
restrict ad revenue from videos considered, inauthentic which includes those
viewed as, repetitive low, effort or heavy automated without substantial human.
(15:02):
Input content such AS ai generated, voiceovers low effort slide,
shows recycled or minimally edited, clips and mass produced reaction
videos are specifically targeted by the new. Guidelines YouTube says
that creators must produce original and authentic content to qualify for.
Monetization this policy update renames the previous repetitious content ruled
(15:28):
to inauthentic content and clarifies what that includes. Today reflecting
the rise of automation AND ai tools in video. Production
although some creators were initially concerned that reaction videos eclips
might be broadly, Deboditized YouTube is clarified that these types
of content remain eligible as long as creators add meaningful,
(15:50):
value such as commentary or unique. Context YouTube's editorial Director
Rene ritchie described The july fifteen update as a minor
update that mainly clarifies enforcement rather than introducing new. Strictures
the goal is to reduce the flood of, bland, spammy
or bot created videos that clutter the platform and frustrate
(16:13):
viewers and advertisers. Well partial use OF ai tools for
assistance like script help or voice enhancement is a gray.
Area channels that primarily depend on fully automated or low
EFFORT ai content face a risk of. Demonetization that's a
wrap for today's edition Of Good news For. Lefties if
(16:34):
these stories brighten your, outlook please help us spread the.
Word share this episode on social media wherever you. POST
a big thanks to our production, team Rosabelt hein And
Aaron watson for making all of this possible behind the.
Scenes I'm Beowulf rockland weird Name Good news For lefties And.
Speaker 2 (16:54):
America are you tired of the same, old boring political.
Chatter are you.
Speaker 3 (17:14):
Craving some, smart, insightful and hilarious takes on the day's,
News then get ready For america's original sexy, Liberal Stephanie.
Speaker 2 (17:21):
Miller she's now delivering her signature blend of politics and
pop culture five days a week in podcast.
Speaker 3 (17:26):
Form dive into the day's headlines With Stephanie Miller out
of The gate and unwind with hilarious conversations On Stephanie
Miller's Happy hour. Podcast don't miss a single laugh or incredible.
Moment subscribe To Stephanie Miller out of The gate And
Stephanie Miller's Happy Hour podcast On Apple, Podcasts Stephanie miller dot,
com or wherever you get your favorite.
Speaker 1 (17:44):
Podcasts and in case you missed, it here's this good news.
Headline over two hundred and TWENTY us military veterans have
stepped forward to Support afghan allies at risk of, deportation
volunteering to accompany them to a. Asylum hearings across The
United states organized through The Battle buddies initiative started by
(18:07):
Hashtag Afghan evak And iraq And Afghanistan veterans Of. America
these veterans are determined to ensure That afghans who worked
Alongside american forces aren't forced to stand alone during a
precarious moment in the immigration. System the program's launch follows
the high profile arrest Of afghan Interpreter Sayed, nasernuri who
(18:30):
came to THE us legally and is now facing deportation
despite the mortal danger he would face from The taliban if.
Returned NASA's situation emblematic of thousands of others galvanized veterans
across the, country many of whom served With afghan colleagues
during the twenty year. War to take a visible stand
(18:51):
for due, process dignity and the promises made to wartime,
allies veterans emphasize this effort is not about, politics but
about solidarity and fulfilling. Commitments this isn't, Political this is
personal for many of. Us these are people that we served,
with Said IAVA Ceo kyle An. Hunter through their presence
(19:13):
in immigration, court Battle buddies volunteers are sending a clear
message that those who risked everything to HELP us missions
abroad deserve, protection not, abandonment in THE us legal. Process
the end of temporary protected status For afghanistan On july,
fourteenth coupled with escalating deportation, efforts has intensified fears in
(19:36):
The afghan, community a reality veterans are working to. Change
advocates point out THAT us forces promised safety to those
who offered critical assistance on the. Ground now veterans are
mobilizing across the country to keep those promises and demand
fairness and compassion for Their afghan. Allies
Good News for Lefties and America. Hello, and thanks for
joining another episode of Good News for Lefties. I'm Beowulf Rocklin,
your host, ready to help you swap out doom and
gloom for some genuine hope with uplifting stories for democracy defenders, progressives, liberals, leftists,
(00:28):
and anyone who believes in making America a better place
for everyone. It's no secret that these are challenging times.
A Trump desperately trying to distract America from his name
in the Epstein files, the disappearing of immigrants and citizens alike,
the wholesale destruction of critical government agencies. Today's headlines often
(00:51):
overwhelm us with troubling news, making it all too easy
to lose sight of hope. That's exactly why it's vital
to highlight the pause sitive real world progress that's happening
every day, progress that too often gets drowned out by
the negativity. Despite the setbacks, there's genuinely good movement toward
(01:11):
a better America. So let these stories serve as a
reminder that change is not just possible, it's happening. Carry
this hope with you and share it with others. Today,
let's kick off with some good news headlines designed to
brighten your day. Americans' attitudes toward immigration have reached new
heights of positivity, with nearly eight inten adults now saying
(01:35):
that immigration is a good thing for the United States.
This marks a significant jump from sixty four percent a
year ago, and is the most optimistic measure in twenty
five years of Gallop polling. The trend reflects a broadening
embrace of immigration's value, cutting across political affiliations and signaling
(01:55):
powerful momentum for inclusion even amidst ongoing national debates and
challenging federal policies. The shift is particularly notable among Independents
and Republicans, demographics that typically lean more cautious on the issue.
Support for the idea that immigrants benefit of the country
has soared among Republicans, rising from just thirty nine percent
(02:18):
last year to about two thirds now. Independence showed a
comparable leap, with eighty percent now expressing positive views about immigration.
At the same time, the percentage of Americans who see
immigration as a negative has dropped to just twenty percent,
representing a dramatic decline from previous years. Americans are also
(02:41):
increasingly content with immigration levels, with just thirty percent now
saying immigration should decrease, down from fifty five percent a
year ago. More people than ever before prefer to keep
immigration levels the same or even see them increased. The
change in climate is also fueling growing support for pathways
to citizenship, with the vast majority of US adults now
(03:05):
favoring policies that allow immigrants living in the country without
legal status to earn citizenship, especially for those brought to
the US as children. These findings point to a hopeful
and pragmatic turn in the national conversation, with more Americans
recognizing the benefits of a diverse and welcoming society even
(03:26):
in the face of tough enforcement policies and political rhetoric.
The public support for immigrants and desire for solutions that
honor dignity and opportunity continues to rise, a sign that
the values of inclusion and community are resonating more powerfully
than ever before. New Jersey is poised to deliver universal,
(03:48):
high quality early education for all children under new legislation
signed by Governor Phil Murphy on July ninth, twenty twenty five.
The ambitious law expands free pre school to more districts
and requires every school district in the state to offer
full day kindergarten by twenty thirty, building on years of
(04:08):
progress that have already added twenty thousand preschool seats in
two hundred and twenty nine districts since twenty eighteen. The
state now invests one point two billion dollars annually in
public preschool, supporting roughly eighty thousand three and four year olds,
but the new law codifies and strengthens the funding formula
(04:28):
and expands both preschool and kindergarten access for families statewide.
The legislation mandates that all remaining districts, nearly half of
which still lack public preschool and ten that do not
offer all day kindergarten, achieve these goals in the coming years.
To support these efforts, the new policy creates a three
(04:49):
year preschool cost sharing pilot program, requires annual preschool expansion grants,
and establishes a committee to guide the statewide impl It
also demands that state agencies provide clear, accessible preschool information
online and that they annually report progress to lawmakers, ensuring
(05:10):
transparency and continuous improvement. Governor Murphy said that universal free
preschool in kindergarten aren't just education policy, but a powerful
strategy for affordability and economic mobility. By lowering out of
pocket costs for working families and providing foundational learning that
(05:30):
sets children up for lifelong success, the new law addresses
both the affordability crisis and long standing disparities in early
childhood opportunities. These initiatives build on the legacy of Abbot districts,
where universal preschool began as a remedy for funding inequities,
helping to close achievement gaps and lift up entire communities. Policymakers, educators,
(05:57):
and advocates across New Jersey are hailing this expansion as
a game changer for families. Universal early education will deliver
not only immediate relief in childcare costs, but also lasting
benefits in school readiness and social emotional development, reshaping the
state's future workforce and quality of life for generations to come.
(06:20):
Before we get back to the news, I want to
tell you about an important podcast called This Week Again,
hosted by Suzanne Posel. It takes a humorous look at
politics and current events one week at a time. It's
a funny, angry, progressive, sarcastic, hilarious podcast that drops every Sunday,
and in my opinion, is the largest single repository of
(06:43):
creatively insulting names for Donald Trump. Mango Mussolini, and Orange
Julius Caesar are just the beginning. So if you want
to recap of the week and you want a laugh
into the bargain, listen to This Week Again with Suzanne
Posel on this platform or wherever you listen to podcasts.
That's This Week Again with Suzanne Posel, s USA, N
(07:06):
N pose E L. This Week Again, Listen, laugh, repeat.
Missouri has taken a major step to protect the financial
future of its most vulnerable children. Starting August twenty eighth,
the state will end the long standing practice of seizing
(07:26):
foster children's social security and survivor benefits to recoup the
cost of their foster care. Instead, these funds will now
be reserved for the children's own unmet needs and future planning,
such as housing and education as they prepare to age
out of the system. This ensures that kids who are
orphaned or have disabilities are no longer forced to pay
(07:49):
for their time in state custody through personal benefits intended
specifically for them. This reform, signed into law by Governor
Mike keyho and sponsored by Representative Melissa Schmidt and Senator
Jamie Berger, won broad bipartisan support. For years, Missouri's Children's
Division used millions of dollars each year from the federal
(08:09):
benefits of foster youth, over ten million dollars in twenty
twenty four a loan to pay for routine foster care costs.
That practice often left children exiting care with none of
the resources meant to help them transition to independence. Under
the new law, these benefits must be used for the
children's own extra needs and can no longer be diverted
(08:32):
to cover basic foster care expenses. The legislation comes as
part of a broader child welfare package. In addition to
the ban on seizing foster kid's benefits, it also includes
an end to child marriage for anyone under eighteen, increased
tax credits for youth programs, and stronger protections against the
(08:53):
use of non disclosure agreements to silence victims of childhood's
sexual abuse. The law law also improves transparency and rights
for families navigating the child welfare system. Advocates and lawmakers,
including House Minority Leader Ashley On, hailed the measure as
a long needed act of stewardship and dignity for children
(09:15):
in state care. By ensuring that financial resources set aside
for foster youth truly reached them, Missouri is setting a
higher standard for supporting the aspirations and stability of young
people in state custody. A historic and inspiring journey is
nearing completion as a group of young Indigenous kayakers paddled
(09:35):
three hundred miles down the Klamath River from its headwaters
in southern Oregon to its mouth at the Pacific Ocean
in California. This marks the first time in a century
that such a descent has been possible following the removal
of four hydroelectric dams that had blocked the river for
more than one hundred years. The dam removal was part
(09:57):
of the largest dam removal project in the United State
Date's history, completed by late twenty twenty four, which has
already allowed the river to begin a natural recovery and
salmon populations to rapidly return to upstream habitats. This expedition
is both a physical and cultural reclamation led by youth
from tribes such as the Kirok and Urrak, who view
(10:20):
the Klamath as a living relative and vital to their identity.
Kayakers Ruby Williams and Kiahwiki described the journey as reclaiming
their river and their sport while pursuing justice for their people.
The river historically supported the third largest salmon population in
the US West Coast, but dam construction between nineteen eighteen
(10:42):
and nineteen sixty six had devastated fish passages and tribal livelihoods.
Removing the dams reopened over four hundred miles of historic
fish habitat almost immediately, with thousands of Chinook salmon observed
migrating upstream within weeks of completion, demonstrating the resilience of
the ecosystem and the power of restoration. Restoration efforts continue
(11:05):
beyond the dam removal itself, involving reshaping river channels, removing
sediment accumulated behind reservoirs, planting native vegetation, and utilizing innovative
techniques like helicopter placement of down trees to rebuild crucial
fish habitat. These are collaborative projects involving local tribes, conservation organizations,
(11:27):
and restoration firms working together to heal the river basin.
The Kayak Journey symbolizes healing and sovereignty for the indigenous tribes,
highlighting a reassertion of their cultural heritage and stewardship over
ancestral lands that had been disrupted for generations. As the
young Paddlers complete their month long historic journey, hopes are
(11:48):
high for their continuing roles in advocacy, education, and cultural
renewal tied to the Klamath River. Up next, a listener
suggested story back in a minute and now. A listener
suggested story from Maria in Quincy, Massachusetts. Concession workers at
(12:09):
Fenway Park and MGM Music Hall in Boston are preparing
to strike if a new contract agreement is not reached.
The union, representing about one thousand Era Mark workers, Unite
Here Local twenty six, has been bargaining for six months,
seeking fair wages comparable to similar jobs in Boston and
safeguards against automation reducing jobs. The strike would last three days,
(12:35):
coinciding with the Boston Red Sox home series against the
Los Angeles Dodgers. One key issue driving the strike is
low wages. Fenway concession workers make about eighteen dollars an hour,
significantly less than similar positions at nearby universities and other
ballparks Another concern is the rising use of self checkout
(12:58):
kiosks replacing staff. Union president Carlos Aramayo emphasized that automation
jeopardizes not only jobs, but also safety and quality of service,
pointing to risks like overserving alcohol and miners accessing it
through machines. Workers also lament the loss of tips with
(13:18):
automated systems and stress that human interaction is essential to
the Fenway experience. Union members have asked fans attending the
Dodgers series to show solidarity by not purchasing food and
drink items inside Fenway Park during the potential strike. Workers
describe themselves as the soul of Fenway, highlighting the important
(13:39):
cultural and hospitality role they play in creating the unique
Fenway experience that draws visitors beyond just the game itself.
Several workers balance Fenway jobs with second jobs like teaching,
which underscores their dedication despite low pay and challenging conditions.
As tensions continue, support for the workers has extended to
(14:01):
prominent voices, including Red Sox pitcher Lucas Giolito, who emphasized
the importance of fair compensation for all roles that make
the ballpark operate. Thanks so much for that story, Maria.
If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share,
we'd love to hear from you. Call or message us
(14:22):
at two zero two six five six six' to two
seven to. One drop us a line at beowulf at
two Squared Media productions dot, com or send it to
us at Good news For lefties On, Facebook instagram or Blue.
Sky YouTube has started enforcing updated monetization policies that will
(14:42):
affect many creators who rely heavily ON ai generated content
or mass produced. Videos the platform's revised rules aim to
restrict ad revenue from videos considered, inauthentic which includes those
viewed as, repetitive low, effort or heavy automated without substantial human.
(15:02):
Input content such AS ai generated, voiceovers low effort slide,
shows recycled or minimally edited, clips and mass produced reaction
videos are specifically targeted by the new. Guidelines YouTube says
that creators must produce original and authentic content to qualify for.
Monetization this policy update renames the previous repetitious content ruled
(15:28):
to inauthentic content and clarifies what that includes. Today reflecting
the rise of automation AND ai tools in video. Production
although some creators were initially concerned that reaction videos eclips
might be broadly, Deboditized YouTube is clarified that these types
of content remain eligible as long as creators add meaningful,
(15:50):
value such as commentary or unique. Context YouTube's editorial Director
Rene ritchie described The july fifteen update as a minor
update that mainly clarifies enforcement rather than introducing new. Strictures
the goal is to reduce the flood of, bland, spammy
or bot created videos that clutter the platform and frustrate
(16:13):
viewers and advertisers. Well partial use OF ai tools for
assistance like script help or voice enhancement is a gray.
Area channels that primarily depend on fully automated or low
EFFORT ai content face a risk of. Demonetization that's a
wrap for today's edition Of Good news For. Lefties if
(16:34):
these stories brighten your, outlook please help us spread the.
Word share this episode on social media wherever you. POST
a big thanks to our production, team Rosabelt hein And
Aaron watson for making all of this possible behind the.
Scenes I'm Beowulf rockland weird Name Good news For lefties And.
Speaker 2 (16:54):
America are you tired of the same, old boring political.
Chatter are you.
Speaker 3 (17:14):
Craving some, smart, insightful and hilarious takes on the day's,
News then get ready For america's original sexy, Liberal Stephanie.
Speaker 2 (17:21):
Miller she's now delivering her signature blend of politics and
pop culture five days a week in podcast.
Speaker 3 (17:26):
Form dive into the day's headlines With Stephanie Miller out
of The gate and unwind with hilarious conversations On Stephanie
Miller's Happy hour. Podcast don't miss a single laugh or incredible.
Moment subscribe To Stephanie Miller out of The gate And
Stephanie Miller's Happy Hour podcast On Apple, Podcasts Stephanie miller dot,
com or wherever you get your favorite.
Speaker 1 (17:44):
Podcasts and in case you missed, it here's this good news.
Headline over two hundred and TWENTY us military veterans have
stepped forward to Support afghan allies at risk of, deportation
volunteering to accompany them to a. Asylum hearings across The
United states organized through The Battle buddies initiative started by
(18:07):
Hashtag Afghan evak And iraq And Afghanistan veterans Of. America
these veterans are determined to ensure That afghans who worked
Alongside american forces aren't forced to stand alone during a
precarious moment in the immigration. System the program's launch follows
the high profile arrest Of afghan Interpreter Sayed, nasernuri who
(18:30):
came to THE us legally and is now facing deportation
despite the mortal danger he would face from The taliban if.
Returned NASA's situation emblematic of thousands of others galvanized veterans
across the, country many of whom served With afghan colleagues
during the twenty year. War to take a visible stand
(18:51):
for due, process dignity and the promises made to wartime,
allies veterans emphasize this effort is not about, politics but
about solidarity and fulfilling. Commitments this isn't, Political this is
personal for many of. Us these are people that we served,
with Said IAVA Ceo kyle An. Hunter through their presence
(19:13):
in immigration, court Battle buddies volunteers are sending a clear
message that those who risked everything to HELP us missions
abroad deserve, protection not, abandonment in THE us legal. Process
the end of temporary protected status For afghanistan On july,
fourteenth coupled with escalating deportation, efforts has intensified fears in
(19:36):
The afghan, community a reality veterans are working to. Change
advocates point out THAT us forces promised safety to those
who offered critical assistance on the. Ground now veterans are
mobilizing across the country to keep those promises and demand
fairness and compassion for Their afghan. Allies
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