September 21, 2025 • 20 mins
In this episode of Good News for Lefties, we explore a range of inspiring stories that highlight the resilience of communities and the power of progressive action across America. A Los Angeles jury has acquitted protester Brayan Ramos Brito, signaling a growing skepticism towards government prosecutions related to immigration enforcement. This landmark verdict not only questions the credibility of law enforcement but also reinforces the importance of standing up for immigrant rights amidst federal overreach.
In a groundbreaking move for reproductive rights, Illinois has become the first Midwestern state to mandate public universities provide abortion pills and contraception at student health centers. Governor J.B. Pritzker's legislation reflects a commitment to ensuring that all students have access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare, especially as surrounding states impose stricter bans.
We also share the story of Utah violinist Dongin John Shin, who has garnered significant community support following his detention by ICE. His case has sparked rallies and fundraising efforts, highlighting the collective resistance against the administration's deportation policies and the importance of preserving cultural contributions within immigrant communities.
On the environmental front, Northwestern University scientists have unveiled a revolutionary catalyst that could transform plastic recycling, making it more efficient and economically viable. This innovation promises to tackle the growing crisis of single-use plastics and pave the way for a more sustainable future.
Additionally, a nonprofit in San Antonio is empowering youth by providing stipends for civic engagement through the Leaders of Tomorrow Fellowship. This initiative is designed to cultivate the next generation of leaders and advocates for community-centered change, reinforcing the vital role of young voices in shaping public policy.
Lastly, the Washington Literacy Center is addressing health literacy in D.C., helping individuals navigate the healthcare system and advocate for their own well-being. This partnership underscores the critical link between literacy and health equity, aiming to empower residents to take control of their health outcomes.
Join us as we celebrate these uplifting stories that remind us of the progress being made every day. If these stories resonate with you, please help us spread the word by rating and reviewing us on your favorite podcast platform! We love hearing from you, so reach out at 202-656-6271 or drop us a line at beowulf@twosquaredmediaproductions.com.
For more about these stories:
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/sep/18/los-angeles-border-agent-trial
https://msmagazine.com/2025/09/02/chicago-illinois-abortion-pills-birth-control-contraception-college-university-health-center-students/
https://www.npr.org/2025/08/30/nx-s1-5523773/john-shin-utah-violinist-ice-immigration-trump
https://phys.org/news/2025-09-catalyst-plastic-recycling-reality.html#google_vignette
https://sanantonioreport.org/why-a-local-nonprofit-is-paying-young-people-to-train-in-civic-engagement/
https://wtop.com/dc/2025/09/help-for-people-who-struggle-to-read-navigate-the-health-care-system/
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/sep/18/los-angeles-border-agent-trial
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.
In a groundbreaking move for reproductive rights, Illinois has become the first Midwestern state to mandate public universities provide abortion pills and contraception at student health centers. Governor J.B. Pritzker's legislation reflects a commitment to ensuring that all students have access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare, especially as surrounding states impose stricter bans.
We also share the story of Utah violinist Dongin John Shin, who has garnered significant community support following his detention by ICE. His case has sparked rallies and fundraising efforts, highlighting the collective resistance against the administration's deportation policies and the importance of preserving cultural contributions within immigrant communities.
On the environmental front, Northwestern University scientists have unveiled a revolutionary catalyst that could transform plastic recycling, making it more efficient and economically viable. This innovation promises to tackle the growing crisis of single-use plastics and pave the way for a more sustainable future.
Additionally, a nonprofit in San Antonio is empowering youth by providing stipends for civic engagement through the Leaders of Tomorrow Fellowship. This initiative is designed to cultivate the next generation of leaders and advocates for community-centered change, reinforcing the vital role of young voices in shaping public policy.
Lastly, the Washington Literacy Center is addressing health literacy in D.C., helping individuals navigate the healthcare system and advocate for their own well-being. This partnership underscores the critical link between literacy and health equity, aiming to empower residents to take control of their health outcomes.
Join us as we celebrate these uplifting stories that remind us of the progress being made every day. If these stories resonate with you, please help us spread the word by rating and reviewing us on your favorite podcast platform! We love hearing from you, so reach out at 202-656-6271 or drop us a line at beowulf@twosquaredmediaproductions.com.
For more about these stories:
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/sep/18/los-angeles-border-agent-trial
https://msmagazine.com/2025/09/02/chicago-illinois-abortion-pills-birth-control-contraception-college-university-health-center-students/
https://www.npr.org/2025/08/30/nx-s1-5523773/john-shin-utah-violinist-ice-immigration-trump
https://phys.org/news/2025-09-catalyst-plastic-recycling-reality.html#google_vignette
https://sanantonioreport.org/why-a-local-nonprofit-is-paying-young-people-to-train-in-civic-engagement/
https://wtop.com/dc/2025/09/help-for-people-who-struggle-to-read-navigate-the-health-care-system/
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/sep/18/los-angeles-border-agent-trial
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-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 be
a Wolf Rocklin, your host, ready to help you swap
out doom and gloom for some genuine hope with uplifting
stories for democracy defenders, progressives, liberals, socialists, leftists, and anyone
(00:27):
who believes in making America a better place for everyone.
Today's troubling headlines often overwhelm us, and I'm sure if
you follow the news, you'll read or hear about some
of them today. All the bad news makes it easy
to lose sight of hope, and that's exactly why it's
vital to highlight the positive progressive wins happening every day
(00:47):
in the United States of America. To help us spread
the positivity. If you enjoy the show, please rate and
review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your podcast platform
of choice. It helps more lefties like you can you
hear more good news stories and stay positive and motivated
for the days ahead. Now, let's get to some good
news headlines designed to brighten your day. A Los Angeles
(01:12):
jury delivered a clear message this week, acquitting protester Brion
Ramos Brito of charges that he assaulted a Border Patrol
agent during a June demonstration. The quick verdict, reached after
just over an hour of deliberation, underscored the growing skepticism, juries,
and the public share toward government prosecutions tied to immigration crackdowns,
(01:36):
especially when contradicted by video evidence. Prosecutors had accused Ramos
Brito of striking an officer outside a Department of Homeland
Security building in Paramount, but witness footage painted a very
different picture. The video showed an agent aggressively shoving Ramos Brito,
not the other way around, and jurors ultimately rejected the
(01:59):
agent's testimony as unreliable. The acquittal becomes the first courtroom
test of Los Angeles' wave of protests against federal raids
this summer, and it represents a setback for officials who
have pushed these cases despite repeated questions about their accuracy.
The trial also shed light on troubling inconsistencies within DHS
(02:22):
reports and the testimony of high ranking Border Patrol chief
Gregory Bovino. Ramas Brito's defense attorneys successfully highlighted passed misconduct
by Bovino, who once received a reprimand for derogatory remarks
about immigrants and has faced scrutiny for false statements in
other enforcement operations. Jurors heard firsthand how agents claims did
(02:47):
not match the evidence, raising doubts about the government's credibility
well beyond this case. Civil liberties advocates hailed the verdict
as a reminder that courts remain an important venue for
resisting federal overreach and defending the rights of demonstrators. As
attorney Megan Blanco noted, the jury's refusal to take senior
(03:07):
officials at their word shows that communities are no longer
passively accepting flawed prosecutions for protesters and everyday residents alike,
Wednesday's outcome is a hopeful sign that truth and accountability
can rise above intimidation and that those standing up for
immigrant rights in Los Angeles are not standing alone. Illinois
(03:32):
has taken a groundbreaking step for reproductive rights in the Midwest,
becoming the first state in the region to require public
universities to provide abortion pills and contraception at student health centers.
Governor J. B. Pritzker signed the legislation last month, positioning
Illinois as a vital access point for reproductive healthcare. As
(03:53):
surrounding states move to ban or severely restrict abortion care.
Starting with the twenty twenty five twenty six academic year,
state universities will be required to make medication, abortion, and
contraception readily available through campus clinics, pharmacies, and telehealth. The
measure followed years of grassroots organizing, including a successful student
(04:14):
referendum at the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign and testimony
from young leaders. Advocates say the law ensures students won't
face unnecessary costs, delays, or long trips simply to exercise
control over their own health. State leaders emphasized that the
new law reflects Illinois's role as a safe haven for
(04:36):
reproductive rights, particularly as the state already serves tens of
thousands of patients traveling from across the Midwest. In twenty
twenty four alone, nearly forty percent of abortions in Illinois
were for people who lived in other states, highlighting just
how critical Illinois has become in defending access as national
restrictions intensify. Lieutenant Governor Juliana Strat called to move part
(05:01):
of Illinois's lasting commitment to protecting reproductive freedom despite mounting
federal attacks. Reproductive justice organizers and student advocates celebrated the
victory as both practical and symbolic, underscoring that young people
deserve comprehensive health care on campus just as they do
anywhere else. With Illinois now joining California, Massachusetts, and New
(05:25):
York in mandating student access to abortion pills, supporters say
the momentum is clear. Students nationwide are leading the charge
to make sure healthcare is treated as a right, not
a privilege. 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
(05:50):
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 creatively insulting names for Donald Trump. Mango Mussolini,
and Orange Julius Caesar are just the beginning. So if
(06:12):
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
us A n n E pose E L This Week
Again Listen, Laugh, Repeat. A celebrated Utah violinist is receiving
(06:38):
an outpouring of community support after being detained by US
Immigration and Customs enforcement in Colorado, highlighting growing resistance to
the Trump Administration's sweeping deportation drive. Dongin John Shinn, who
has performed with the Utah Symphony and Ballet West, was
arrested August eighteenth in a hotel parking lot and is
(06:59):
now being held in Aurora. His sudden detention has sparked rallies,
musical protests, and a widely shared fundraising campaign that has
already raised more than seventy thousand dollars for his legal defense. Friends, colleagues,
and fellow musicians describe Shin as a beloved husband, father,
and artist whose contributions to the local arts scene have
(07:21):
enriched Salt Lake City for years, from the Utah Symphony
to grassroots ensembles. Many have publicly vouched for his character
and talent. His wife, Daney, shared a heartbreaking message from
the day of his arrest, but also vowed to fight
to bring him home, underscoring just how deeply. His family
and community are committed to standing by him. Advocates for
(07:42):
immigrant rights note that Shin's detention reflects the administration's aggressive
approach to enforcement, rolling back long standing protections and targeting
community members with established roots. Shinn came to the US
as a child and was a recipient of DHAKA, the
Obama era program that shielded young immigrants brought here without
permanent legal status. Now, despite his decades in the country
(08:06):
and his cultural contributions, he faces the threat of deportation,
another sign of how far reaching the administration's mass arrest
campaign has become. But artists and audiences alike are mobilizing
in response, turning concerts into calls for justice, and transforming
public solidarity into action. For many, Shinn's case is about
(08:27):
more than one musician. It's about defending neighbors, preserving community,
and pushing back against fear driven policies. As one violinist
organizing rallies wrote, the time has come to rally together
and fight for our own with unwavering solidarity. Now that
message has become the heartbeat of a movement determined to
make sure Shin and countless others like him are not forgotten.
(08:53):
Northwestern University scientists have unveiled a breakthrough that could transform
the future of plastic recycling, offering hope for tackling the
mountains of single use waste that clogg landfills and pollute ecosystems.
In a study published in Nature Chemistry, researchers introduced a
low cost nickeled based catalyst capable of breaking down everyday
(09:15):
plastics like polyurethane and propylene without the costly and tedious
pre sorting that has long hampered recycling. The new process
converts hard to recycle plastics into valuable products such as oils, waxes, lubricants,
and even fuels, dramatically increasing the efficiency and economic viability
(09:36):
of recycling systems. In a surprising twist, the catalyst not
only withstands contamination from PVC, a type of plastic that
usually makes entire batches unrecyclable, but actually performs better when
PVC is present, potentially unlocking uses for plastic waste once
deemed impossible to repurpose. Polyolifan plastics, which include containers, bottles, bags,
(10:02):
and much of today's disposable packaging, account for nearly two
thirds of global plastic consumption, but recycling rates are below
ten percent. These materials resist breakdown because of their durable
molecular bonds. Existing processes can handle them only when sorted
meticulously or require extreme heat and energy inputs. By contrast,
(10:24):
the new catalyst operates at significantly lower temperatures and with
less energy, making it both more sustainable and scalable. Researchers
say this discovery could mark a turning point in global recycling,
allowing facilities to process massive amounts of mixed plastic waste
that would otherwise go straight to the landfill. As Northwestern
(10:46):
chemist Tobin Marks put it, our new catalyst could bypass
this costly and labor intensive step for common plastics, making
recycling far more efficient and practical For a world drowning
in single use plastic. The innovation offers a glimpse of
an economy where waste becomes resource and where cleaner, smarter
recycling could help stem the tide of pollution. Up next,
(11:13):
a listener suggested story back in a minute, and now,
a listener suggested story from ed in San Antonio, Texas.
San Antonio nonprofit is investing in the power of youth
by paying young people to actively engage in civic life
and public policy advocacy. The UP Partnership launched the Leaders
(11:34):
of Tomorrow Fellowship, a groundbreaking program that offers stipends of
twenty five hundred dollars to twenty young leaders aged sixteen
to twenty four across Bexar County to participate in leadership training, mentorship,
and grassroots advocacy. Participants commit about ten hours a month
to build skills in interpreting data, navigating policy, and speaking
(11:57):
with local government bodies from city councils to school boards
so they can effectively push for community centered change. The
program is designed to empower a diverse group of youth
who are already active in various advocacy and service groups,
formalizing their training and amplifying their voices in important decision
making spaces. Fellows like seventeen year old Audrey Somora and
(12:20):
eighteen year old college freshman Leona Daniel Fletcher emphasize how
the fellowship reduces the fear of speaking up and pushes
young people to embrace their potential as future leaders. UP
Partnership's managing Director, Christina Martinez highlights that the initiative aims
to elevate young voices, specifically around policy, from education equity
(12:43):
to youth services funding. Youth engagement and influence have become
more urgent amid recent efforts to increase public investments in
education and services, as well as shifting political priorities showing
more awareness of youth needs. Experts point out that younger
generations may not always vote in large numbers, but are
becoming powerful drivers of nonpartisan community involvement, making programs like
(13:07):
Leaders of Tomorrow a timely and effective tool for fostering
lasting change. With ambitious goals to unlock hundreds of millions
in youth funding and boost post secondary enrollment county wide
by twenty thirty, the Fellowship represents a strategic investment in
San Antonio's future. Thanks so much for that story.
Speaker 2 (13:25):
Ed.
Speaker 1 (13:26):
If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share,
we'd love to hear from you. Call or message us
at two zero two six five six six 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.
(13:48):
A partnership in Washington, d C is addressing a critical,
yet often overlooked barrier to good health the ability to
read and understand medical information. The Washington Literacy Center has
teamed up with nonprofits well Point and Medical Ascension to
offer health literacy fairs and programs throughout the fall. Their
mission is to help community members, especially those struggling with
(14:12):
basic reading, better navigate the complex healthcare system and become
confident advocates for their own care. Jimmy Williams, President and
CEO of the Literacy Center, emphasizes the urgent need for
this work in DC, where nearly a third of adults
face challenges with basic reading. The impact is especially pronounced
(14:33):
in black and Hispanic communities, where literacy rates lags significantly
behind those of white students. This literacy gap directly contributes
to poor health outcomes, as individuals who struggle to decode
prescriptions or medical instructions may avoid seeking care or misunderstand
critical information. Beyond seasonal events, health literacy is woven into
(14:56):
the Centre's ongoing reading programs, fostering practical skills that help
participants ask informed questions and understand their health better. Williams
notes that partnerships like these are crucial, though nonprofits often
operate with limited resources and rely on community support. Through
donations and volunteers to expand their reach. The work of
(15:17):
the Washington Literacy Center highlights the vital link between literacy
and health equity, reminding us that clear communication is foundational
to justice and healthcare. As this collaboration grows, it aims
to empower more residents to take control of their well
being in a system that can often feel intimidating and inaccessible.
(15:39):
That's a wrap for today's edition of Good News for Lefties.
Remember if these stories brighten your outlook, please help us
spread the word by rating and reviewing us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify,
or your podcast platform of choice. A big thanks to
our production team, rooseabilt Heine and Aaron Watson for making
all of this possible Behind the scenes, I'm beol Wolf Rockland,
(16:02):
weird name Good News for Lefties and America.
Speaker 2 (16:24):
Here's what you've been missing on the Stephanie Miller Happy
Hour podcast. Who said this would be a coverer thirty
verse twenty twenty four. Let's part with a rifle standing
there with some nine barrels shooting at her. Okay, let's
see how she feels about, you know, when the guns
are trained on her face. That was Liz Chaney talking
about change. Oh, Rocca Wallaby, No, that would be Donald
(16:46):
Trump said that about Liz Cheney and a firing corps
gay shoogie in front of nine barrels. Heather Charlie.
Speaker 1 (16:54):
Charlie Kirk said, don't shoot.
Speaker 2 (16:56):
Charlie Kirk said President Biden should be executed. I mean yeah,
to his credit, said I guess there should be a
trial for something. But again, all you Christians out there,
you show me a picture of Jesus with an ice
hat on, and I'll say I was wrong about Charlie Kirk.
Subscribe to the Stephanie Miller Happy Hour podcast on Apple Podcasts,
Stephanie Miller dot com or wherever you get your favorite podcasts.
Speaker 1 (17:25):
And in case you missed it, here's this good news headline.
The US House of Representatives has taken a significant step
to reclaim congressional authority over war powers by voting to
repeal two decades old authorizations for the Use of Military
Force aumfs that have enabled presidents to wage endless conflicts
(17:48):
across the Middle East. In a bipartisan vote of two
hundred and sixty one to one sixty seven, with all
Democrats and forty nine Republicans in support, The House passed
an amendment to send the nineteen ninety one Gulf War
and two thousand and two Iraq War authorizations, amazing that
those are still on the books, casting a needed spotlight
(18:10):
on years of unchecked executive military action. Originally intended to
give presidents limited authority to target terrorist groups like al
Qaeda and address specific threats, these aomfs have been stretched
far beyond their original scope. They have been used to
justify expansive military campaigns, drone strikes, and assassinations without formal
(18:33):
congressional approval, enabling forever wars that cost countless lives and resources.
Presidents from George W. Bush to Barack Obama, Donald Trump,
and Joe Biden have exploited these shadowy mandates to continually
escalate conflicts without explicit new authorization, undermining constitutional checks and balances.
(18:56):
While the repeal aims to curb this abuse, critics warned
that the preserved to two thousand and one AUMF remains
a dangerous loophole, still used to legitimize military strikes worldwide. Additionally,
the amendment is part of a larger defense bill that
controversially authorizes eight hundred ninety three billion dollars in military spending,
highlighting the complexities in controlling US militarism. Progressive lawmakers like
(19:20):
Representative Gregory Meeks and also conservative representatives including Chip Roy
from Texas, emphasized the need to update legal frameworks to
prevent further misuse of war powers and rein in enduring
military adventurism. This vote signals a renewed push for peace
and accountability, challenging decades of executive overreach and calling for
(19:42):
Congress to assert its constitutional role. Although the path ahead
remains difficult as the Senate considers the Defense Bill, advocates
see this as a crucial moment to shift US foreign
policy away from unending wars and towards diplomacy, justice, and
a more peaceful global future.
Good News for Lefties and America. Hello, and thanks for
joining another episode of Good News for Lefties. I'm be
a Wolf Rocklin, your host, ready to help you swap
out doom and gloom for some genuine hope with uplifting
stories for democracy defenders, progressives, liberals, socialists, leftists, and anyone
(00:27):
who believes in making America a better place for everyone.
Today's troubling headlines often overwhelm us, and I'm sure if
you follow the news, you'll read or hear about some
of them today. All the bad news makes it easy
to lose sight of hope, and that's exactly why it's
vital to highlight the positive progressive wins happening every day
(00:47):
in the United States of America. To help us spread
the positivity. If you enjoy the show, please rate and
review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your podcast platform
of choice. It helps more lefties like you can you
hear more good news stories and stay positive and motivated
for the days ahead. Now, let's get to some good
news headlines designed to brighten your day. A Los Angeles
(01:12):
jury delivered a clear message this week, acquitting protester Brion
Ramos Brito of charges that he assaulted a Border Patrol
agent during a June demonstration. The quick verdict, reached after
just over an hour of deliberation, underscored the growing skepticism, juries,
and the public share toward government prosecutions tied to immigration crackdowns,
(01:36):
especially when contradicted by video evidence. Prosecutors had accused Ramos
Brito of striking an officer outside a Department of Homeland
Security building in Paramount, but witness footage painted a very
different picture. The video showed an agent aggressively shoving Ramos Brito,
not the other way around, and jurors ultimately rejected the
(01:59):
agent's testimony as unreliable. The acquittal becomes the first courtroom
test of Los Angeles' wave of protests against federal raids
this summer, and it represents a setback for officials who
have pushed these cases despite repeated questions about their accuracy.
The trial also shed light on troubling inconsistencies within DHS
(02:22):
reports and the testimony of high ranking Border Patrol chief
Gregory Bovino. Ramas Brito's defense attorneys successfully highlighted passed misconduct
by Bovino, who once received a reprimand for derogatory remarks
about immigrants and has faced scrutiny for false statements in
other enforcement operations. Jurors heard firsthand how agents claims did
(02:47):
not match the evidence, raising doubts about the government's credibility
well beyond this case. Civil liberties advocates hailed the verdict
as a reminder that courts remain an important venue for
resisting federal overreach and defending the rights of demonstrators. As
attorney Megan Blanco noted, the jury's refusal to take senior
(03:07):
officials at their word shows that communities are no longer
passively accepting flawed prosecutions for protesters and everyday residents alike,
Wednesday's outcome is a hopeful sign that truth and accountability
can rise above intimidation and that those standing up for
immigrant rights in Los Angeles are not standing alone. Illinois
(03:32):
has taken a groundbreaking step for reproductive rights in the Midwest,
becoming the first state in the region to require public
universities to provide abortion pills and contraception at student health centers.
Governor J. B. Pritzker signed the legislation last month, positioning
Illinois as a vital access point for reproductive healthcare. As
(03:53):
surrounding states move to ban or severely restrict abortion care.
Starting with the twenty twenty five twenty six academic year,
state universities will be required to make medication, abortion, and
contraception readily available through campus clinics, pharmacies, and telehealth. The
measure followed years of grassroots organizing, including a successful student
(04:14):
referendum at the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign and testimony
from young leaders. Advocates say the law ensures students won't
face unnecessary costs, delays, or long trips simply to exercise
control over their own health. State leaders emphasized that the
new law reflects Illinois's role as a safe haven for
(04:36):
reproductive rights, particularly as the state already serves tens of
thousands of patients traveling from across the Midwest. In twenty
twenty four alone, nearly forty percent of abortions in Illinois
were for people who lived in other states, highlighting just
how critical Illinois has become in defending access as national
restrictions intensify. Lieutenant Governor Juliana Strat called to move part
(05:01):
of Illinois's lasting commitment to protecting reproductive freedom despite mounting
federal attacks. Reproductive justice organizers and student advocates celebrated the
victory as both practical and symbolic, underscoring that young people
deserve comprehensive health care on campus just as they do
anywhere else. With Illinois now joining California, Massachusetts, and New
(05:25):
York in mandating student access to abortion pills, supporters say
the momentum is clear. Students nationwide are leading the charge
to make sure healthcare is treated as a right, not
a privilege. 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
(05:50):
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 creatively insulting names for Donald Trump. Mango Mussolini,
and Orange Julius Caesar are just the beginning. So if
(06:12):
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
us A n n E pose E L This Week
Again Listen, Laugh, Repeat. A celebrated Utah violinist is receiving
(06:38):
an outpouring of community support after being detained by US
Immigration and Customs enforcement in Colorado, highlighting growing resistance to
the Trump Administration's sweeping deportation drive. Dongin John Shinn, who
has performed with the Utah Symphony and Ballet West, was
arrested August eighteenth in a hotel parking lot and is
(06:59):
now being held in Aurora. His sudden detention has sparked rallies,
musical protests, and a widely shared fundraising campaign that has
already raised more than seventy thousand dollars for his legal defense. Friends, colleagues,
and fellow musicians describe Shin as a beloved husband, father,
and artist whose contributions to the local arts scene have
(07:21):
enriched Salt Lake City for years, from the Utah Symphony
to grassroots ensembles. Many have publicly vouched for his character
and talent. His wife, Daney, shared a heartbreaking message from
the day of his arrest, but also vowed to fight
to bring him home, underscoring just how deeply. His family
and community are committed to standing by him. Advocates for
(07:42):
immigrant rights note that Shin's detention reflects the administration's aggressive
approach to enforcement, rolling back long standing protections and targeting
community members with established roots. Shinn came to the US
as a child and was a recipient of DHAKA, the
Obama era program that shielded young immigrants brought here without
permanent legal status. Now, despite his decades in the country
(08:06):
and his cultural contributions, he faces the threat of deportation,
another sign of how far reaching the administration's mass arrest
campaign has become. But artists and audiences alike are mobilizing
in response, turning concerts into calls for justice, and transforming
public solidarity into action. For many, Shinn's case is about
(08:27):
more than one musician. It's about defending neighbors, preserving community,
and pushing back against fear driven policies. As one violinist
organizing rallies wrote, the time has come to rally together
and fight for our own with unwavering solidarity. Now that
message has become the heartbeat of a movement determined to
make sure Shin and countless others like him are not forgotten.
(08:53):
Northwestern University scientists have unveiled a breakthrough that could transform
the future of plastic recycling, offering hope for tackling the
mountains of single use waste that clogg landfills and pollute ecosystems.
In a study published in Nature Chemistry, researchers introduced a
low cost nickeled based catalyst capable of breaking down everyday
(09:15):
plastics like polyurethane and propylene without the costly and tedious
pre sorting that has long hampered recycling. The new process
converts hard to recycle plastics into valuable products such as oils, waxes, lubricants,
and even fuels, dramatically increasing the efficiency and economic viability
(09:36):
of recycling systems. In a surprising twist, the catalyst not
only withstands contamination from PVC, a type of plastic that
usually makes entire batches unrecyclable, but actually performs better when
PVC is present, potentially unlocking uses for plastic waste once
deemed impossible to repurpose. Polyolifan plastics, which include containers, bottles, bags,
(10:02):
and much of today's disposable packaging, account for nearly two
thirds of global plastic consumption, but recycling rates are below
ten percent. These materials resist breakdown because of their durable
molecular bonds. Existing processes can handle them only when sorted
meticulously or require extreme heat and energy inputs. By contrast,
(10:24):
the new catalyst operates at significantly lower temperatures and with
less energy, making it both more sustainable and scalable. Researchers
say this discovery could mark a turning point in global recycling,
allowing facilities to process massive amounts of mixed plastic waste
that would otherwise go straight to the landfill. As Northwestern
(10:46):
chemist Tobin Marks put it, our new catalyst could bypass
this costly and labor intensive step for common plastics, making
recycling far more efficient and practical For a world drowning
in single use plastic. The innovation offers a glimpse of
an economy where waste becomes resource and where cleaner, smarter
recycling could help stem the tide of pollution. Up next,
(11:13):
a listener suggested story back in a minute, and now,
a listener suggested story from ed in San Antonio, Texas.
San Antonio nonprofit is investing in the power of youth
by paying young people to actively engage in civic life
and public policy advocacy. The UP Partnership launched the Leaders
(11:34):
of Tomorrow Fellowship, a groundbreaking program that offers stipends of
twenty five hundred dollars to twenty young leaders aged sixteen
to twenty four across Bexar County to participate in leadership training, mentorship,
and grassroots advocacy. Participants commit about ten hours a month
to build skills in interpreting data, navigating policy, and speaking
(11:57):
with local government bodies from city councils to school boards
so they can effectively push for community centered change. The
program is designed to empower a diverse group of youth
who are already active in various advocacy and service groups,
formalizing their training and amplifying their voices in important decision
making spaces. Fellows like seventeen year old Audrey Somora and
(12:20):
eighteen year old college freshman Leona Daniel Fletcher emphasize how
the fellowship reduces the fear of speaking up and pushes
young people to embrace their potential as future leaders. UP
Partnership's managing Director, Christina Martinez highlights that the initiative aims
to elevate young voices, specifically around policy, from education equity
(12:43):
to youth services funding. Youth engagement and influence have become
more urgent amid recent efforts to increase public investments in
education and services, as well as shifting political priorities showing
more awareness of youth needs. Experts point out that younger
generations may not always vote in large numbers, but are
becoming powerful drivers of nonpartisan community involvement, making programs like
(13:07):
Leaders of Tomorrow a timely and effective tool for fostering
lasting change. With ambitious goals to unlock hundreds of millions
in youth funding and boost post secondary enrollment county wide
by twenty thirty, the Fellowship represents a strategic investment in
San Antonio's future. Thanks so much for that story.
Speaker 2 (13:25):
Ed.
Speaker 1 (13:26):
If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share,
we'd love to hear from you. Call or message us
at two zero two six five six six 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.
(13:48):
A partnership in Washington, d C is addressing a critical,
yet often overlooked barrier to good health the ability to
read and understand medical information. The Washington Literacy Center has
teamed up with nonprofits well Point and Medical Ascension to
offer health literacy fairs and programs throughout the fall. Their
mission is to help community members, especially those struggling with
(14:12):
basic reading, better navigate the complex healthcare system and become
confident advocates for their own care. Jimmy Williams, President and
CEO of the Literacy Center, emphasizes the urgent need for
this work in DC, where nearly a third of adults
face challenges with basic reading. The impact is especially pronounced
(14:33):
in black and Hispanic communities, where literacy rates lags significantly
behind those of white students. This literacy gap directly contributes
to poor health outcomes, as individuals who struggle to decode
prescriptions or medical instructions may avoid seeking care or misunderstand
critical information. Beyond seasonal events, health literacy is woven into
(14:56):
the Centre's ongoing reading programs, fostering practical skills that help
participants ask informed questions and understand their health better. Williams
notes that partnerships like these are crucial, though nonprofits often
operate with limited resources and rely on community support. Through
donations and volunteers to expand their reach. The work of
(15:17):
the Washington Literacy Center highlights the vital link between literacy
and health equity, reminding us that clear communication is foundational
to justice and healthcare. As this collaboration grows, it aims
to empower more residents to take control of their well
being in a system that can often feel intimidating and inaccessible.
(15:39):
That's a wrap for today's edition of Good News for Lefties.
Remember if these stories brighten your outlook, please help us
spread the word by rating and reviewing us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify,
or your podcast platform of choice. A big thanks to
our production team, rooseabilt Heine and Aaron Watson for making
all of this possible Behind the scenes, I'm beol Wolf Rockland,
(16:02):
weird name Good News for Lefties and America.
Speaker 2 (16:24):
Here's what you've been missing on the Stephanie Miller Happy
Hour podcast. Who said this would be a coverer thirty
verse twenty twenty four. Let's part with a rifle standing
there with some nine barrels shooting at her. Okay, let's
see how she feels about, you know, when the guns
are trained on her face. That was Liz Chaney talking
about change. Oh, Rocca Wallaby, No, that would be Donald
(16:46):
Trump said that about Liz Cheney and a firing corps
gay shoogie in front of nine barrels. Heather Charlie.
Speaker 1 (16:54):
Charlie Kirk said, don't shoot.
Speaker 2 (16:56):
Charlie Kirk said President Biden should be executed. I mean yeah,
to his credit, said I guess there should be a
trial for something. But again, all you Christians out there,
you show me a picture of Jesus with an ice
hat on, and I'll say I was wrong about Charlie Kirk.
Subscribe to the Stephanie Miller Happy Hour podcast on Apple Podcasts,
Stephanie Miller dot com or wherever you get your favorite podcasts.
Speaker 1 (17:25):
And in case you missed it, here's this good news headline.
The US House of Representatives has taken a significant step
to reclaim congressional authority over war powers by voting to
repeal two decades old authorizations for the Use of Military
Force aumfs that have enabled presidents to wage endless conflicts
(17:48):
across the Middle East. In a bipartisan vote of two
hundred and sixty one to one sixty seven, with all
Democrats and forty nine Republicans in support, The House passed
an amendment to send the nineteen ninety one Gulf War
and two thousand and two Iraq War authorizations, amazing that
those are still on the books, casting a needed spotlight
(18:10):
on years of unchecked executive military action. Originally intended to
give presidents limited authority to target terrorist groups like al
Qaeda and address specific threats, these aomfs have been stretched
far beyond their original scope. They have been used to
justify expansive military campaigns, drone strikes, and assassinations without formal
(18:33):
congressional approval, enabling forever wars that cost countless lives and resources.
Presidents from George W. Bush to Barack Obama, Donald Trump,
and Joe Biden have exploited these shadowy mandates to continually
escalate conflicts without explicit new authorization, undermining constitutional checks and balances.
(18:56):
While the repeal aims to curb this abuse, critics warned
that the preserved to two thousand and one AUMF remains
a dangerous loophole, still used to legitimize military strikes worldwide. Additionally,
the amendment is part of a larger defense bill that
controversially authorizes eight hundred ninety three billion dollars in military spending,
highlighting the complexities in controlling US militarism. Progressive lawmakers like
(19:20):
Representative Gregory Meeks and also conservative representatives including Chip Roy
from Texas, emphasized the need to update legal frameworks to
prevent further misuse of war powers and rein in enduring
military adventurism. This vote signals a renewed push for peace
and accountability, challenging decades of executive overreach and calling for
(19:42):
Congress to assert its constitutional role. Although the path ahead
remains difficult as the Senate considers the Defense Bill, advocates
see this as a crucial moment to shift US foreign
policy away from unending wars and towards diplomacy, justice, and
a more peaceful global future.
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