October 12, 2025 • 18 mins
In this episode of Good News for Lefties, we unveil a series of heartening stories that showcase the resilience of communities and the steadfast pursuit of justice. We kick off with a Chicago grand jury's courageous decision to decline indictments against activists protesting outside an ICE facility, highlighting a growing resistance against the Trump administration's aggressive tactics. This judicial stand reinforces the right to peaceful protest and the rejection of disproportionate prosecutions aimed at silencing dissent.
Next, we celebrate California's groundbreaking Real Food Healthy Kids Act, which sets a ten-year timeline to phase out ultra-processed foods from school meals. This transformative legislation aims to improve children's health by prioritizing nutritious options, marking a significant shift in how schools approach food for students.
Oregon is also making strides by enacting new laws to protect residents from deceptive financial practices, including a landmark measure that prevents medical debt from affecting credit scores. Governor Tina Kotak's initiatives are crucial for safeguarding working families against hidden costs and unfair financial traps.
We then turn our attention to the Port of Cleveland, which is embarking on an electrification project funded by the Biden Era Clean Ports Program. This initiative aims to reduce emissions and modernize operations, positioning the port as a leader in sustainable maritime commerce while supporting local jobs and economic growth.
Finally, we highlight a remarkable community effort in Hawaii, where volunteers and scientists are tackling ocean pollution by sorting through 50,000 pounds of marine debris. Their work not only addresses the immediate problem of plastic waste but also contributes to critical research aimed at influencing policy and promoting environmental stewardship.
Join us as we celebrate these inspiring stories that remind us of the progress being made toward a more just and equitable society. If you find these stories uplifting, please rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform! We’d love to hear from you, so reach out at 202-656-6271 or drop us a line at beowulf@twosquaredmediaproductions.com.
For more about today's stories:
https://talkingpointsmemo.com/where-things-stand/jury-refuses-to-indict-chicago-ice-protesters-in-latest-revolt-against-trump-overreach
https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/california-phase-ultraprocessed-food-school-meals-rcna236506
https://www.oregonlive.com/politics/2025/09/new-laws-aim-to-protect-oregonians-from-deceptive-financial-practices.html
https://www.canarymedia.com/articles/sea-transport/cleveland-midwest-port-electrification-federal-grant
https://www.kitv.com/news/50-000-pounds-of-marine-debris-sorted-for-science/article_4281d4e9-085b-40b7-a5f5-a7ea2fc1a9b1.html
https://www.goodgoodgood.co/articles/jane-goodall-barbie
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.
Next, we celebrate California's groundbreaking Real Food Healthy Kids Act, which sets a ten-year timeline to phase out ultra-processed foods from school meals. This transformative legislation aims to improve children's health by prioritizing nutritious options, marking a significant shift in how schools approach food for students.
Oregon is also making strides by enacting new laws to protect residents from deceptive financial practices, including a landmark measure that prevents medical debt from affecting credit scores. Governor Tina Kotak's initiatives are crucial for safeguarding working families against hidden costs and unfair financial traps.
We then turn our attention to the Port of Cleveland, which is embarking on an electrification project funded by the Biden Era Clean Ports Program. This initiative aims to reduce emissions and modernize operations, positioning the port as a leader in sustainable maritime commerce while supporting local jobs and economic growth.
Finally, we highlight a remarkable community effort in Hawaii, where volunteers and scientists are tackling ocean pollution by sorting through 50,000 pounds of marine debris. Their work not only addresses the immediate problem of plastic waste but also contributes to critical research aimed at influencing policy and promoting environmental stewardship.
Join us as we celebrate these inspiring stories that remind us of the progress being made toward a more just and equitable society. If you find these stories uplifting, please rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform! We’d love to hear from you, so reach out at 202-656-6271 or drop us a line at beowulf@twosquaredmediaproductions.com.
For more about today's stories:
https://talkingpointsmemo.com/where-things-stand/jury-refuses-to-indict-chicago-ice-protesters-in-latest-revolt-against-trump-overreach
https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/california-phase-ultraprocessed-food-school-meals-rcna236506
https://www.oregonlive.com/politics/2025/09/new-laws-aim-to-protect-oregonians-from-deceptive-financial-practices.html
https://www.canarymedia.com/articles/sea-transport/cleveland-midwest-port-electrification-federal-grant
https://www.kitv.com/news/50-000-pounds-of-marine-debris-sorted-for-science/article_4281d4e9-085b-40b7-a5f5-a7ea2fc1a9b1.html
https://www.goodgoodgood.co/articles/jane-goodall-barbie
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 your host,
Bayable Frocklin, ready to help you swap out doom and
gloom for genuine hope with uplifting stories for democracy defenders, progressives, liberals, socialists, leftists,
(00:26):
and anyone 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 in the United States of America. To help
(00:49):
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
here 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 Chicago area
(01:12):
grand jury has once again pushed back against the Trump
administration's aggressive crackdown on protesters, declining to indict two activists
accused of assaulting law enforcement during demonstrations outside an immigration
and Customs enforcement facility. This judicial decision highlights the resistance
within communities targeted by harsh federal immigration enforcement policies and
(01:36):
militarized tactics. The grand jury's refusal joins similar rebukes from Washington,
d C. California, and cities where jurors are unwilling to
support disproportionate prosecutions of mostly peaceful protesters standing up against injustice.
The protests outside the Ice Center are in the Chicago
suburb of Broadview, and they've drawn wide support amid anger
(01:58):
over federal overreach and heavy handed policing. Instead of engaging
with the community's concerns, the Trump administration has doubled down
by deploying National Guard troops, aiming to intimidate rather than
address root causes. Illinois Governor J. B. Pritzker and Chicago
Mayor Brandon Johnson have condemned this move as an unwarranted escalation,
(02:19):
with Pritzker calling the deployment illegal and dangerous and Johnson
vowing to protect the city's residents and activists alike. Both
have joined in legal actions to block the militarization and
stand firmly for the rights of residence to protest peacefully
without fear of excessive force or political retaliation. Donald Trump's
(02:41):
inflammatory rhetoric, including calls for the jailing of local officials
for failing to protect ice officers, has only intensified the
resolve of community leaders and protesters. Chicago officials rightly view
such threats as authoritarian assaults on democracy, emphasizing that dissent
against unjust policies is a vital part of civic life
(03:02):
and that those elected to represent the people will not
be cowed or silenced. Grassroots movements and city leadership together
demonstrate a powerful front defending human dignity amid federal attempts
to sow fear and division. The repeated rebuffs by grand
Juries serve as a clear message federal prosecutors lack credible
(03:22):
evidence to criminalize protest efforts aimed at resisting policies that
harm immigrant communities and threaten civil liberties. These outcomes underscore
an important evolution in public and judicial recognition that heavy
state repression garners widespread opposition, and that efforts to silence
the people by force are neither sustainable nor just as
(03:43):
Chicago and other cities continue to mobilize, their defiance fuels
hope for a future where justice and community solidarity prevail
over fear and coercion. California is making history by becoming
the first state in the nation to take a deciple
have stepped toward healthier, more nourishing school meals by phasing
out certain ultra processed foods. Governor Gavenusom signed the Real
(04:08):
Food Healthy Kids Act, a trailblazing law that sets a
ten year timeline to remove the most concerning ultra processed
products from public school breakfasts and lunches. This new policy
not only defines ultra processed foods for the first time
at a state level, but also creates a science based
framework to identify items with additives and unhealthy levels of fat, sugar,
(04:31):
and sodium that post significant health risks to children. Ultra
Processed foods, which currently make up sixty two percent of
the calories consumed by US children, have been linked to
chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and type two diabetes.
California's move signals a paradigm shift away from the status
quo of nutritionally poor school meals, which often rely on
(04:53):
heavily processed items packed with artificial dyes, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.
The law mandates that by mid twenty twenty eight, the
state's Public Health Department will finalize which foods are the
highest priority to phase out foods that have been shown
to impair not only physical health, but also children's mental
and emotional well being. The phased implementation schedule allows schools
(05:16):
and food suppliers ample time to adapt, with the complete
transition expected by twenty thirty five. Already, some districts that
shifted to healthier meals have reported not only better nutrition,
but also cost savings, debunking the myth that better food
must come with a higher price tag. California's proactive stance
encourages other states to follow suit, fostering a nationwide movement
(05:38):
that prioritizes children's health and well being at the heart
of public education. Oregon is stepping up with strong new
protections against deceptive financial practices as federal oversight continues to weaken.
Starting in twenty twenty six, several recently passed laws will
safeguard everyday Oregonians from predatory situations like surprise medical debt
(06:02):
ruining credit scores and auto dealers switching loan terms after
cars have been driven off the lot. Governor Tina Kotec
championed these measures as essential for protecting working families from
hidden costs and unfair financial traps, a crucial step as
many residents face rising living expenses and shrinking budgets. One
landmark law prevents any medical debt from being reported to
(06:24):
credit bureaus, a transformative policy that helps people rebuild their
financial lives after unexpected health crises. This legislation acknowledges how
medical emergencies should not become lifelong burdens, lifting a heavy
weight off many shoulders in Oregon. Another vital reform titans
consumer protections in auto financing. House Bill thirty one seventy
(06:47):
eight shortens the window for dealers to finalized loans from
fourteen to ten days and requires clear, plain language disclosures
in the top five languages spoken across Oregon communities. Finally,
new U rules for online shopping mandate upfront disclosure of
all mandatory fees before checkout, preventing frustration and financial strain
(07:08):
caused by hidden charges. The Port of Cleveland, Ohio, is
making significant strides toward a sustainable future by beginning the
electrification of its operations, marking a major step and reducing
emissions at one of the biggest Midwest ports. Thanks to
a ninety four million dollar grant from the biden Era
Clean Ports Program, the port is renovating its warehouse a
(07:32):
on Lake Eries shore, with rooftop solar panels, battery storage,
and a network of charging stations for electric cargo handling equipment.
This ambitious project will replace diesel forklifts and cranes with
electric models, to build infrastructure like shore power connections to
allow ships to plug in while docked, cutting toxic pollution
for workers and nearby communities alike. The port's goal is
(07:55):
to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by twenty fifty,
covering not only wrecked emissions from its equipment, but also
emissions from energy use. These efforts at the Port of
Cleveland align with a broader regional push, with ports like
Detroit planning even earlier net zero targets. Electrification efforts include
electric tugboats and hybrid cranes, all supported by clean energy
(08:18):
from solar and a microgrid developed in a partnership with
Cleveland Public Power. This integrated approach ensure if the port
stays ahead of tightening environmental regulations while fostering cleaner air
and climate benefits. Beyond environmental gains, this modernization also promises
economic and community benefits, supporting over twenty three thousand local
(08:40):
jobs tied to the port and generating about seven billion
dollars in annual economic activity. With these electrification upgrades, the
port is investing not only in cleaner operations, but also
in its long term resilience and leadership in sustainable maritime commerce.
The ambitious mix of solar power, electric equipment, and shore
(09:00):
power makes the Port of Cleveland a trailblazer for environmentally
responsible shipping in the heart of the Midwest. Up next,
a listener suggested story back in a minute, and now,
a listener suggested story from pat in Honolulu, Hawaii. In
(09:20):
a remarkable effort to tackle ocean pollution, volunteers and scientists
on Windward Oahu recently sorted through an astonishing fifty thousand
pounds of marine debris collected from remote Pacific sites like
Laysan Island and Kalopapa. Inside a warehouse in Kailua, teams
meticulously categorized items ranging from fishing nets and oyster spacers
(09:42):
to toothbrushes, toys, and even mannequin heads. Every piece is
carefully weighed, logged, and entered into a global database to
help researchers trace the origins and pathways of debris washing
ashore in Hawaii, offering critical insight into the widespread problem
of plastic pollution in the the oceans. Much of the
debris comes from commercial fishing vessels, but it also indicates
(10:05):
man made trash that drifts thousands of miles across the
Pacific from Asia, Alaska and other regions. The scale of
this pollution is sobering, with annual accumulation at one Marine
National Monument in Hawaii estimated at one hundred fifteen thousand pounds.
This work is part of coordinated projects involving Sustainable Coastlines Hawaii,
(10:28):
the Ocean Cleanup, and the Marine Debris Project, which not
only remove plastic waste, but also utilized scientific analysis to
influence policy and encourage systemic change to stem pollution at
its source. Sustainable Coastlines Hawaii has mobilized over fifty thousand
volunteers removed more than seven hundred fifty thousand pounds of
(10:50):
debris from Hawaiian shores and reached thousands of students through
education programs. While the mountain of ocean trash can feel overwhelming,
these ongoing efforts prove that understanding and collective action are
pathways to solutions, transforming discarded plastic into a catalyst for
scientific discovery, policy change, and environmental stewardship. Thanks so much
(11:13):
for that story, Pat. 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. Mittel has honored the legendary primatologist
(11:38):
and conservationist Jane Goodall with a special Barbie doll crafted
from recycled ocean bound plastics, released as part of Barbie's
Inspiring Women series. The Jane Goodall Barbie features the conservation
icon in her signature khaki shirt and shorts, complete with
binoculars and a notebook, alongside David Graybeard, the chimpanzee, who
was her first research companion at Gombe National Park in Tanzania.
(12:02):
This doll not only celebrates Goodall's groundbreaking work with chimpanzees,
but also serves as a role model for young children
to embrace eco leadership and environmental responsibility. Mattel's commitment to
sustainability extends beyond this doll, with corporate goals to use
one hundred percent recycled, recyclable, or bio based plastic materials
in all products and packaging by twenty thirty. Their playback
(12:25):
program further supports circular economy principles by offering customers the
ability to recycle old toys through prepaid shipping labels, ensuring
materials are covered for reuse or converted into renewable energy resources.
Such initiatives reflect a growing cultural shift in the toy industry,
where companies are responding to consumer demand for products that
(12:46):
align with environmental values. 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,
Roosevelt Hein and Aaron Watson for making all this possible.
(13:07):
Behind the scenes. I'm be a Wolf Rockland weird name
good news for lefties and America. Stay tuned after this
(13:28):
commercial break for more of me, your humble and obedient servant.
As I speak with Jen and Dan of the band
Camp podcast.
Speaker 2 (13:39):
Hey, I'm John Fugel saying, do you ever want these
Christian nationalists and right wing fundamentalists on TV and think
Jesus Christ? These people of the opposite of Jesus Christ.
You know, Christianity was supposed to be about love and service,
but millions of Americans have grown up to find their
nice religions been hijacked by this mean, authoritarian tax free clip.
(14:00):
I wrote a book about how these right wingers aren't
actually on the side of Jesus and historically they never
have been. Separation of Church and hate a same person's
Guide to taking back the Bible from fundamentalist fascists and
flock pleasing frauds. It's a very irreverent and biblically correct
book for believers, atheists, agnostics, and anybody who's ever going
to have to deal with a Christian extremist in your family, workplace,
(14:21):
or government on all the issues that divide us. Using
actual verses from that book they claim to follow. They've
got a First Amendment right to twist the Bible to
their liking. You've got a first Amendment right to call
them out for it, and you'll be surprised at how
good it feels.
Speaker 1 (14:37):
And now an excerpt from a recent episode of the
band Camp Podcast where I speak with hosts Jen and Dan.
Then go listen to the full show the band Camp
Podcast that's banned with two ends bandcamppodcast dot com and
just a quick trigger warning here there may be some
clips of Donald Trump played. In this next segment.
Speaker 2 (15:01):
It's time for Bandcab News.
Speaker 1 (15:03):
True Speaker, News Speaker. They will freckin. It's a weird name,
but he's got good news because he can't the truth.
Speaker 3 (15:12):
He's broadcasting live from the Good News for LEFTI Studio
is buried deep inside his social safehouse, hidden somewhere deep
in the Oregon woods. He is Babe Well Rockland.
Speaker 1 (15:24):
Because Hello Dan, Hello Jen, Hello scary book people. I
have some good video game news for you today. Video
games are bigger than movies, so this is an important development.
The game that's just come out is called Relooted. It
may look like a standard side scrolling video game, but
(15:46):
The Heist Adventure, which is on many lists as the
most anticipated game of the year, promises to reward players
with a deeper narrative. Set in the late twenty first century,
the game follows Molly, a fast thinking, acrobatic leader who
assembles a crew of ordinary citizens turned thieves their mission
to reclaim seventy real life African artifacts from Western institutions
(16:10):
and return them to their rightful homelands. Now, as we know,
especially throughout the nineteenth century, colonial powers took artifacts, sacred
objects and items of deep spiritual importance to the cultures
of Africa and Asia and just set them in museums
in Europe, and most of those have not been returned.
(16:33):
So people are beginning to think about that and how
they might get returned. And now it's happening in video
game form. Most of the creators of this are from
different parts of Africa, and they've put together a scenario
in which you can envision and think about how these
might be reclaimed.
Speaker 3 (16:54):
That's very cool, but I wonder if this is just
a really smart way for our society to It's like, look,
school is probably going to go away, and maybe we
should start trying to teach people in ways that they're
going to learn. And maybe we can throw a couple
textbooks in the grand theft auto or something like. It's like,
let's try it.
Speaker 1 (17:15):
Well, you're you're correct, because if you can get the
attention of the young person, how are you going to
be most likely to do it through? Like through a
book or through a video game? Buy and large, young
people spend more more time playing video games than they
do reading books. So if there's an important idea that
you want to get out there, put it in a
video game and make it a challenge and get them
(17:36):
engaged in it. I think this is a fantastic way
of engaging young people. Meet them where they are.
Speaker 3 (17:41):
Jennifer, do you mind sharing your tip of how you
trick your daughter into reading by YouTube videos? Oh?
Speaker 1 (17:51):
Yeah, yeah.
Speaker 4 (17:52):
I put on the captions and a lot of times
I'll turn the volume down or I'll find something in
another language. Like she likes to watch these Japanese YouTube
videos about traveling, and she has to read because she
doesn't know Japanese. But she wants to know about cat Island,
so she needs to read about it.
Speaker 1 (18:13):
Wow, yeah, you see, I haven't seen cat Island in
the headlines recently, and obviously this is something that media bias,
right with media bias plays a roleline.
Speaker 3 (18:24):
I love that though. If he's addicted to Japanese kittens,
so that's a good that's a good trick. If you
have a kid who doesn't want to read, find something
they're into in Japan or China. Everyone go listen to
Good News for Lefties and bay We Rocklin look at
this guy every money. Find them wherever you find podcasts.
(18:44):
Thank you so much, guys
Speaker 1 (18:46):
Thank you, and listen to Jen and Dan on the
band Camp podcast at band camp podcast dot com.
Good News for Lefties and America. Hello and thanks for
joining another episode of Good News for Lefties. I'm your host,
Bayable Frocklin, ready to help you swap out doom and
gloom for genuine hope with uplifting stories for democracy defenders, progressives, liberals, socialists, leftists,
(00:26):
and anyone 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 in the United States of America. To help
(00:49):
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
here 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 Chicago area
(01:12):
grand jury has once again pushed back against the Trump
administration's aggressive crackdown on protesters, declining to indict two activists
accused of assaulting law enforcement during demonstrations outside an immigration
and Customs enforcement facility. This judicial decision highlights the resistance
within communities targeted by harsh federal immigration enforcement policies and
(01:36):
militarized tactics. The grand jury's refusal joins similar rebukes from Washington,
d C. California, and cities where jurors are unwilling to
support disproportionate prosecutions of mostly peaceful protesters standing up against injustice.
The protests outside the Ice Center are in the Chicago
suburb of Broadview, and they've drawn wide support amid anger
(01:58):
over federal overreach and heavy handed policing. Instead of engaging
with the community's concerns, the Trump administration has doubled down
by deploying National Guard troops, aiming to intimidate rather than
address root causes. Illinois Governor J. B. Pritzker and Chicago
Mayor Brandon Johnson have condemned this move as an unwarranted escalation,
(02:19):
with Pritzker calling the deployment illegal and dangerous and Johnson
vowing to protect the city's residents and activists alike. Both
have joined in legal actions to block the militarization and
stand firmly for the rights of residence to protest peacefully
without fear of excessive force or political retaliation. Donald Trump's
(02:41):
inflammatory rhetoric, including calls for the jailing of local officials
for failing to protect ice officers, has only intensified the
resolve of community leaders and protesters. Chicago officials rightly view
such threats as authoritarian assaults on democracy, emphasizing that dissent
against unjust policies is a vital part of civic life
(03:02):
and that those elected to represent the people will not
be cowed or silenced. Grassroots movements and city leadership together
demonstrate a powerful front defending human dignity amid federal attempts
to sow fear and division. The repeated rebuffs by grand
Juries serve as a clear message federal prosecutors lack credible
(03:22):
evidence to criminalize protest efforts aimed at resisting policies that
harm immigrant communities and threaten civil liberties. These outcomes underscore
an important evolution in public and judicial recognition that heavy
state repression garners widespread opposition, and that efforts to silence
the people by force are neither sustainable nor just as
(03:43):
Chicago and other cities continue to mobilize, their defiance fuels
hope for a future where justice and community solidarity prevail
over fear and coercion. California is making history by becoming
the first state in the nation to take a deciple
have stepped toward healthier, more nourishing school meals by phasing
out certain ultra processed foods. Governor Gavenusom signed the Real
(04:08):
Food Healthy Kids Act, a trailblazing law that sets a
ten year timeline to remove the most concerning ultra processed
products from public school breakfasts and lunches. This new policy
not only defines ultra processed foods for the first time
at a state level, but also creates a science based
framework to identify items with additives and unhealthy levels of fat, sugar,
(04:31):
and sodium that post significant health risks to children. Ultra
Processed foods, which currently make up sixty two percent of
the calories consumed by US children, have been linked to
chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and type two diabetes.
California's move signals a paradigm shift away from the status
quo of nutritionally poor school meals, which often rely on
(04:53):
heavily processed items packed with artificial dyes, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.
The law mandates that by mid twenty twenty eight, the
state's Public Health Department will finalize which foods are the
highest priority to phase out foods that have been shown
to impair not only physical health, but also children's mental
and emotional well being. The phased implementation schedule allows schools
(05:16):
and food suppliers ample time to adapt, with the complete
transition expected by twenty thirty five. Already, some districts that
shifted to healthier meals have reported not only better nutrition,
but also cost savings, debunking the myth that better food
must come with a higher price tag. California's proactive stance
encourages other states to follow suit, fostering a nationwide movement
(05:38):
that prioritizes children's health and well being at the heart
of public education. Oregon is stepping up with strong new
protections against deceptive financial practices as federal oversight continues to weaken.
Starting in twenty twenty six, several recently passed laws will
safeguard everyday Oregonians from predatory situations like surprise medical debt
(06:02):
ruining credit scores and auto dealers switching loan terms after
cars have been driven off the lot. Governor Tina Kotec
championed these measures as essential for protecting working families from
hidden costs and unfair financial traps, a crucial step as
many residents face rising living expenses and shrinking budgets. One
landmark law prevents any medical debt from being reported to
(06:24):
credit bureaus, a transformative policy that helps people rebuild their
financial lives after unexpected health crises. This legislation acknowledges how
medical emergencies should not become lifelong burdens, lifting a heavy
weight off many shoulders in Oregon. Another vital reform titans
consumer protections in auto financing. House Bill thirty one seventy
(06:47):
eight shortens the window for dealers to finalized loans from
fourteen to ten days and requires clear, plain language disclosures
in the top five languages spoken across Oregon communities. Finally,
new U rules for online shopping mandate upfront disclosure of
all mandatory fees before checkout, preventing frustration and financial strain
(07:08):
caused by hidden charges. The Port of Cleveland, Ohio, is
making significant strides toward a sustainable future by beginning the
electrification of its operations, marking a major step and reducing
emissions at one of the biggest Midwest ports. Thanks to
a ninety four million dollar grant from the biden Era
Clean Ports Program, the port is renovating its warehouse a
(07:32):
on Lake Eries shore, with rooftop solar panels, battery storage,
and a network of charging stations for electric cargo handling equipment.
This ambitious project will replace diesel forklifts and cranes with
electric models, to build infrastructure like shore power connections to
allow ships to plug in while docked, cutting toxic pollution
for workers and nearby communities alike. The port's goal is
(07:55):
to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by twenty fifty,
covering not only wrecked emissions from its equipment, but also
emissions from energy use. These efforts at the Port of
Cleveland align with a broader regional push, with ports like
Detroit planning even earlier net zero targets. Electrification efforts include
electric tugboats and hybrid cranes, all supported by clean energy
(08:18):
from solar and a microgrid developed in a partnership with
Cleveland Public Power. This integrated approach ensure if the port
stays ahead of tightening environmental regulations while fostering cleaner air
and climate benefits. Beyond environmental gains, this modernization also promises
economic and community benefits, supporting over twenty three thousand local
(08:40):
jobs tied to the port and generating about seven billion
dollars in annual economic activity. With these electrification upgrades, the
port is investing not only in cleaner operations, but also
in its long term resilience and leadership in sustainable maritime commerce.
The ambitious mix of solar power, electric equipment, and shore
(09:00):
power makes the Port of Cleveland a trailblazer for environmentally
responsible shipping in the heart of the Midwest. Up next,
a listener suggested story back in a minute, and now,
a listener suggested story from pat in Honolulu, Hawaii. In
(09:20):
a remarkable effort to tackle ocean pollution, volunteers and scientists
on Windward Oahu recently sorted through an astonishing fifty thousand
pounds of marine debris collected from remote Pacific sites like
Laysan Island and Kalopapa. Inside a warehouse in Kailua, teams
meticulously categorized items ranging from fishing nets and oyster spacers
(09:42):
to toothbrushes, toys, and even mannequin heads. Every piece is
carefully weighed, logged, and entered into a global database to
help researchers trace the origins and pathways of debris washing
ashore in Hawaii, offering critical insight into the widespread problem
of plastic pollution in the the oceans. Much of the
debris comes from commercial fishing vessels, but it also indicates
(10:05):
man made trash that drifts thousands of miles across the
Pacific from Asia, Alaska and other regions. The scale of
this pollution is sobering, with annual accumulation at one Marine
National Monument in Hawaii estimated at one hundred fifteen thousand pounds.
This work is part of coordinated projects involving Sustainable Coastlines Hawaii,
(10:28):
the Ocean Cleanup, and the Marine Debris Project, which not
only remove plastic waste, but also utilized scientific analysis to
influence policy and encourage systemic change to stem pollution at
its source. Sustainable Coastlines Hawaii has mobilized over fifty thousand
volunteers removed more than seven hundred fifty thousand pounds of
(10:50):
debris from Hawaiian shores and reached thousands of students through
education programs. While the mountain of ocean trash can feel overwhelming,
these ongoing efforts prove that understanding and collective action are
pathways to solutions, transforming discarded plastic into a catalyst for
scientific discovery, policy change, and environmental stewardship. Thanks so much
(11:13):
for that story, Pat. 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. Mittel has honored the legendary primatologist
(11:38):
and conservationist Jane Goodall with a special Barbie doll crafted
from recycled ocean bound plastics, released as part of Barbie's
Inspiring Women series. The Jane Goodall Barbie features the conservation
icon in her signature khaki shirt and shorts, complete with
binoculars and a notebook, alongside David Graybeard, the chimpanzee, who
was her first research companion at Gombe National Park in Tanzania.
(12:02):
This doll not only celebrates Goodall's groundbreaking work with chimpanzees,
but also serves as a role model for young children
to embrace eco leadership and environmental responsibility. Mattel's commitment to
sustainability extends beyond this doll, with corporate goals to use
one hundred percent recycled, recyclable, or bio based plastic materials
in all products and packaging by twenty thirty. Their playback
(12:25):
program further supports circular economy principles by offering customers the
ability to recycle old toys through prepaid shipping labels, ensuring
materials are covered for reuse or converted into renewable energy resources.
Such initiatives reflect a growing cultural shift in the toy industry,
where companies are responding to consumer demand for products that
(12:46):
align with environmental values. 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,
Roosevelt Hein and Aaron Watson for making all this possible.
(13:07):
Behind the scenes. I'm be a Wolf Rockland weird name
good news for lefties and America. Stay tuned after this
(13:28):
commercial break for more of me, your humble and obedient servant.
As I speak with Jen and Dan of the band
Camp podcast.
Speaker 2 (13:39):
Hey, I'm John Fugel saying, do you ever want these
Christian nationalists and right wing fundamentalists on TV and think
Jesus Christ? These people of the opposite of Jesus Christ.
You know, Christianity was supposed to be about love and service,
but millions of Americans have grown up to find their
nice religions been hijacked by this mean, authoritarian tax free clip.
(14:00):
I wrote a book about how these right wingers aren't
actually on the side of Jesus and historically they never
have been. Separation of Church and hate a same person's
Guide to taking back the Bible from fundamentalist fascists and
flock pleasing frauds. It's a very irreverent and biblically correct
book for believers, atheists, agnostics, and anybody who's ever going
to have to deal with a Christian extremist in your family, workplace,
(14:21):
or government on all the issues that divide us. Using
actual verses from that book they claim to follow. They've
got a First Amendment right to twist the Bible to
their liking. You've got a first Amendment right to call
them out for it, and you'll be surprised at how
good it feels.
Speaker 1 (14:37):
And now an excerpt from a recent episode of the
band Camp Podcast where I speak with hosts Jen and Dan.
Then go listen to the full show the band Camp
Podcast that's banned with two ends bandcamppodcast dot com and
just a quick trigger warning here there may be some
clips of Donald Trump played. In this next segment.
Speaker 2 (15:01):
It's time for Bandcab News.
Speaker 1 (15:03):
True Speaker, News Speaker. They will freckin. It's a weird name,
but he's got good news because he can't the truth.
Speaker 3 (15:12):
He's broadcasting live from the Good News for LEFTI Studio
is buried deep inside his social safehouse, hidden somewhere deep
in the Oregon woods. He is Babe Well Rockland.
Speaker 1 (15:24):
Because Hello Dan, Hello Jen, Hello scary book people. I
have some good video game news for you today. Video
games are bigger than movies, so this is an important development.
The game that's just come out is called Relooted. It
may look like a standard side scrolling video game, but
(15:46):
The Heist Adventure, which is on many lists as the
most anticipated game of the year, promises to reward players
with a deeper narrative. Set in the late twenty first century,
the game follows Molly, a fast thinking, acrobatic leader who
assembles a crew of ordinary citizens turned thieves their mission
to reclaim seventy real life African artifacts from Western institutions
(16:10):
and return them to their rightful homelands. Now, as we know,
especially throughout the nineteenth century, colonial powers took artifacts, sacred
objects and items of deep spiritual importance to the cultures
of Africa and Asia and just set them in museums
in Europe, and most of those have not been returned.
(16:33):
So people are beginning to think about that and how
they might get returned. And now it's happening in video
game form. Most of the creators of this are from
different parts of Africa, and they've put together a scenario
in which you can envision and think about how these
might be reclaimed.
Speaker 3 (16:54):
That's very cool, but I wonder if this is just
a really smart way for our society to It's like, look,
school is probably going to go away, and maybe we
should start trying to teach people in ways that they're
going to learn. And maybe we can throw a couple
textbooks in the grand theft auto or something like. It's like,
let's try it.
Speaker 1 (17:15):
Well, you're you're correct, because if you can get the
attention of the young person, how are you going to
be most likely to do it through? Like through a
book or through a video game? Buy and large, young
people spend more more time playing video games than they
do reading books. So if there's an important idea that
you want to get out there, put it in a
video game and make it a challenge and get them
(17:36):
engaged in it. I think this is a fantastic way
of engaging young people. Meet them where they are.
Speaker 3 (17:41):
Jennifer, do you mind sharing your tip of how you
trick your daughter into reading by YouTube videos? Oh?
Speaker 1 (17:51):
Yeah, yeah.
Speaker 4 (17:52):
I put on the captions and a lot of times
I'll turn the volume down or I'll find something in
another language. Like she likes to watch these Japanese YouTube
videos about traveling, and she has to read because she
doesn't know Japanese. But she wants to know about cat Island,
so she needs to read about it.
Speaker 1 (18:13):
Wow, yeah, you see, I haven't seen cat Island in
the headlines recently, and obviously this is something that media bias,
right with media bias plays a roleline.
Speaker 3 (18:24):
I love that though. If he's addicted to Japanese kittens,
so that's a good that's a good trick. If you
have a kid who doesn't want to read, find something
they're into in Japan or China. Everyone go listen to
Good News for Lefties and bay We Rocklin look at
this guy every money. Find them wherever you find podcasts.
(18:44):
Thank you so much, guys
Speaker 1 (18:46):
Thank you, and listen to Jen and Dan on the
band Camp podcast at band camp podcast dot com.
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