In this episode of Good News for Lefties, we celebrate a wave of inspiring victories and movements that are reshaping our communities and fostering hope for a brighter future. We begin with a stunning upset in Fairbanks, Alaska, where Democrat Mindy O'Neill has unseated incumbent Republican David Prusz in the mayoral race, signaling a shift towards progressive leadership. O'Neill's platform of respect, affordability, and community collaboration resonated deeply with voters, marking a significant moment for Democrats in a state long dominated by conservative politics.
Next, we spotlight Tennessee State Representative Justin Pearson, who is challenging longtime House Democrat Steve Cohen in a primary election. At just 30 years old, Pearson is emerging as a powerful voice for young progressives, advocating for economic justice, healthcare, and common-sense gun legislation. His campaign is igniting a new energy in Memphis politics, reflecting the urgency for change among younger voters.
We also discuss the Federal Trade Commission's legal action against Live Nation and Ticketmaster, targeting their exploitative practices in the ticket resale market. This lawsuit aims to hold the company accountable for misleading consumers and manipulating ticket prices, a crucial step in restoring fairness for artists and concertgoers alike.
In a groundbreaking achievement for gender representation, NASA's latest astronaut class features more women than men for the first time in history. With six out of ten candidates being women, this shift symbolizes progress in STEM fields and aims to inspire future generations of girls to pursue careers in science and exploration.
Finally, we highlight a pioneering restaurant in North Carolina, Peninsula Prime, which is creating an autism-friendly dining experience. Owner Jim Gordon Martin's initiative includes sensory kits and picture menus, making dining accessible and enjoyable for families with autistic members, showcasing the power of inclusivity in business.
Join us as we celebrate these uplifting stories that remind us of the progress being made toward a more just and equitable society. If these stories resonate with you, 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://www.newsweek.com/alaska-fairbanks-mayor-election-democrat-republican-10844700
https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/2026-election/tennessee-three-legislator-justin-pearson-launches-primary-challenge-l-rcna235918
https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2025/09/ftc-sues-live-nation-ticketmaster-engaging-illegal-ticket-resale-tactics-deceiving-artists-consumers?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email
https://www.seattletimes.com/nation-world/nation/women-outnumber-men-in-nasas-newest-astronaut-class/?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email
https://www.qcnews.com/news/u-s/north-carolina/mecklenburg-county/cornelius/autism-friendly-restaurant-in-cornelius-aims-to-make-everyone-feel-welcome-while-dining-out/
https://www.eia.gov/todayinenergy/detail.php?id=66104
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.
Next, we spotlight Tennessee State Representative Justin Pearson, who is challenging longtime House Democrat Steve Cohen in a primary election. At just 30 years old, Pearson is emerging as a powerful voice for young progressives, advocating for economic justice, healthcare, and common-sense gun legislation. His campaign is igniting a new energy in Memphis politics, reflecting the urgency for change among younger voters.
We also discuss the Federal Trade Commission's legal action against Live Nation and Ticketmaster, targeting their exploitative practices in the ticket resale market. This lawsuit aims to hold the company accountable for misleading consumers and manipulating ticket prices, a crucial step in restoring fairness for artists and concertgoers alike.
In a groundbreaking achievement for gender representation, NASA's latest astronaut class features more women than men for the first time in history. With six out of ten candidates being women, this shift symbolizes progress in STEM fields and aims to inspire future generations of girls to pursue careers in science and exploration.
Finally, we highlight a pioneering restaurant in North Carolina, Peninsula Prime, which is creating an autism-friendly dining experience. Owner Jim Gordon Martin's initiative includes sensory kits and picture menus, making dining accessible and enjoyable for families with autistic members, showcasing the power of inclusivity in business.
Join us as we celebrate these uplifting stories that remind us of the progress being made toward a more just and equitable society. If these stories resonate with you, 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://www.newsweek.com/alaska-fairbanks-mayor-election-democrat-republican-10844700
https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/2026-election/tennessee-three-legislator-justin-pearson-launches-primary-challenge-l-rcna235918
https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2025/09/ftc-sues-live-nation-ticketmaster-engaging-illegal-ticket-resale-tactics-deceiving-artists-consumers?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email
https://www.seattletimes.com/nation-world/nation/women-outnumber-men-in-nasas-newest-astronaut-class/?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email
https://www.qcnews.com/news/u-s/north-carolina/mecklenburg-county/cornelius/autism-friendly-restaurant-in-cornelius-aims-to-make-everyone-feel-welcome-while-dining-out/
https://www.eia.gov/todayinenergy/detail.php?id=66104
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 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, socialists, leftists,
(00:27):
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. In a stunning
(01:10):
show of grassroots power, Democrat Mindy O'Neil triumphed over incumbent
Republican David Pruz in Fairbanks, Alaska's mayoral race, Ending a
nearly decade of conservative leadership in Alaska's golden heart city,
O'Neill celebrated for her hands on leadership with the Fairbanks
North Starborough Assembly. Garnered fifty four percent of the vote,
(01:34):
setting a powerful signal that residents are ready for a new,
inclusive vision for their city. Voters turned out for O'Neill's platform,
promising respect, affordability, and a vibrant community for all. Her
campaign prioritized fair housing, trustworthy public safety, and real community collaboration,
resonating deeply in a city where the ballot doesn't show
(01:56):
party affiliations, but the desire for progressive change is unmistakable.
On election night, O'Neill thanked supporters and reaffirmed her commitment
to bringing people together to tackle Fairbanks challenges and build
the city we know Fairbanks can be. This victory is
more than a local upset. It's a resounding sign of
democratic momentum in Alaska, where the party is working to
(02:18):
expand its reach statewide. O'Neill's win is energizing progressives as
they look toward future Senate and House races, proving that
positive community focused organizing can overcome long standing conservative strongholds,
even in a state President Trump has consistently dominated. Pruz
conceded graciously, describing the experience as an honor and wishing
(02:41):
O'Neill well as she prepares to take office later this month.
As the city prepares for its new mayor, supporters are
already celebrating a historic shift for Fairbanks, a city now
set to be led by a coalition built on cooperation, compassion,
and real solutions for working families. Tennessee State Representative Justin Pearson,
(03:03):
known nationally for his courageous protest against gun violence in
twenty twenty three, is shaking up Memphis politics by launching
a primary challenge to longtime House Democrat Steve Cohen in
Tennessee's deeply blue ninth District. Pearson, just thirty years old,
has become a leading voice for young progressives demanding action
on poverty, public safety, health care, and economic justice. Backed
(03:28):
by grassroots organizations like Justice Democrats and Leaders We Deserve,
his campaign is sparking new energy in one of the
country's most important Democratic strongholds. Pearson's campaign centers on real
issues affecting his community, including Memphis's persistent poverty, where the
median income sits at just sixty five percent of the
(03:48):
national average, lack of adequate federal investment, and the urgent
need for common sense gun legislation and medicare for all.
He calls for leadership that moves beyond the status quo,
promising to fight carelessly for justice and opportunity for working families.
His challenge represents the rising frustration of a new generation
of voters who want representatives who truly reflect their lived
(04:10):
experience and priorities. The national progressive movement has rallied behind
Pearson's candidacy, recognizing him as a tested fighter who stands
on the front lines against the harmful policies of the
Trump administration and powerful corporate interests. His campaign is part
of a broader wave of young leaders challenging entrenched incumbents
across the country, showing determination to reshape Congress with fresh
(04:34):
ideas and grassroots support. Pearson's fight energizes activists pushing for
transformative policies and a more equitable future. Steve Cohen, who
has served the district for nearly two decades, points to
his legislative experience and success in securing federal funds from Memphis. Yet,
Pearson argues that the time has come for change, urging
(04:54):
voters to choose a leader who is deeply engaged with
the community and ready to bring earth urgent solutions to
local and national problems. The upcoming primary will test the
power of established politics against a dynamic, progressive vision fighting
to build a fairer, stronger Memphis. The Federal Trade Commission,
(05:16):
joined by seven states, has taken sweeping legal action against
Live Nation and Ticketmaster, calling out their exploitative ticket resale
tactics that have squeezed both artists and concertgoers for years.
The lawsuit charges the Ticketmaster not only conspired with ticket
brokers to scoop up millions of tickets and jack up
prices on its resale platform, but also deliberately misled fans
(05:40):
about the true costs and ticket limits, making live music
harder to access for everyday people. Investigators uncovered how Ticketmaster
quietly aided brokers through special software and business practices, turning
a blind eye as a handful of resellers hoarded massive
numbers of tickets. Internal emails review field that the company
(06:01):
refused to use tools that would actually curb these abuses
because it would cut into profits, choosing Wall Street rewards
over honest fans. The scheme's scale is staggering. From twenty
nineteen to twenty twenty four, over eighty two billion dollars
was spent on tickets, while mandatory fees as high as
forty four percent of the advertised ticket price were regularly
(06:24):
hidden until the last moment. The FDC's complaint digs even deeper,
exposing how Ticketmaster's own research confirmed that hiding true costs
hurt consumers, but executives pressed ahead anyway. Ticketmaster holds a
virtual monopoly on major concert venues, controlling at least eighty
percent of ticketing, and its shady tactics, according to the FTC,
(06:44):
violate laws designed to protect the public and ensure a
level playing field. By joining forces, the FTC and state
leaders are demanding real accountability and working to put artists
and fans back at the center of live music experiences.
The legal fight is now underway in federal court, with
progressives across the country cheering the move to break up
this monopoly and defend consumer rights. NASA's newest astronaut class
(07:11):
is making history. For the first time ever, women outnumber
men among the agency's chosen candidates, signaling a groundbreaking step
forward for representation and opportunity in American space exploration. Six
out of the ten astronaut candidates selected to help lead
future missions to the International Space Station, the Moon and
eventually Mars are women, reflecting the growing strength and achievement
(07:34):
of women in STEM fields. The class includes accomplished engineers,
military veterans, and doctors with backgrounds spanning professional rugby, Ultimate frisbee,
and private space missions. Notably, Anna Menin, an engineer, has
already set altitude records. As an astronaut, these pioneers will
spend the next two years training to fly NASA's jets,
(07:56):
prepare for spacewalks, and, in partnership with Russian cosmonauts, learn
new languages for collaboration beyond Earth. NASA is setting its
sights on ambitious goals like Artemis two's journey around the
Moon and Artemis threes planned landing near the lunar South Pole,
while Mars looms as a future frontier. Public excitement is strong,
(08:17):
with leaders and advocates noting that the class's gender balance
will inspire countless youth, especially girls, to imagine themselves exploring space.
As NASA phases into missions with commercial partners and builds
toward a lunar gateway outpost, these new astronauts stand ready
to shape the next era, with the Artemis program paving
(08:37):
the way to put the first woman on the Moon.
The newest NASA astronaut class represents the hope, courage, and
limitless possibility at the heart of science and discovery. Up next,
a listener suggested story back in a minute, and now,
(08:58):
a listener suggested story from Tenamy in Charlotte, North Carolina.
A pioneering restaurant in Cornelius, North Carolina, is setting a
new standard for inclusivity by creating a welcoming, autism friendly
dining experience for all guests. Peninsula Prime's owner Jim Gordon,
motivated by his daughter's autism, has tailored the steakhouse environment
(09:21):
to ease sensory stress, ensuring families can enjoy meals without
the anxiety that often a companies dining out for autistic individuals.
This approach is designed to make dining pleasurable and accessible,
reflecting a compassionate community spirit. Guests at Peninsula Prime are
offered sensory bags containing items like stress balls, fidget spinners,
(09:43):
poppet toys, and earplugs to help manage sensory sensitivities. The
restaurant also features picture menus, allowing diners with autism to
independently select their meals by pointing to images, a small
change with a big impact on fostering autonomy. These sensory
kits are gifts to families, providing tools for comfort that
extend beyond the restaurant experience. Parents and autism advocates have
(10:07):
embraced Peninsula Prime's efforts as deeply meaningful. Nancy Popkin of
the Autism Society of North Carolina shared how this welcoming
approach feels like a gift to families who have long
faced challenges in dining out comfortably. For many, it's the
promise of a respectful and less stressful outing, highlighting what
inclusive business practices can achieve when built with empathy and awareness.
(10:30):
Gordon views autism awareness as only the first step, emphasizing
the importance of broader acceptance. His hope is that more
restaurants will follow suit and create similar environments tailored to
their communities. Peninsula Primes initiative models how businesses can actively
support neurodiverse customers, helping build a society where everyone feels
(10:51):
valued and included. Thanks for that story, Tammy. 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 said good
(11:12):
news for Lefties on Facebook, Instagram or blue Sky. From
two thousand and five to twenty twenty three, every US
state saw a notable decline in per capita energy related
carbon dioxide CO two emissions, with total national emissions dropping
twenty percent as the population grew fourteen percent, leading to
(11:36):
an impressive thirty percent reduction in emissions per person. This
positive trend is largely due to a significant shift away
from coal fired power, historically the biggest source of emissions,
to cleaner energy sources like natural gas, which emits about
half the CO two per unit of energy compared to coal,
and substantial growth in renewable wind and solar power generation.
(11:58):
Maryland stands out with the largest production at forty nine
percent in per capita emissions, driven by a dramatic reversal
in its electricity generation mix, from coal dominating fifty six
percent of power in two thousand and five to just
five percent in twenty twenty three. Alongside natural gas rise
to forty one percent an increased solar and wind capacity,
(12:20):
Maryland's total electric power sector CO two emissions fell by
seventy four percent, showcasing a model for energy transition. Meanwhile,
the Districtive Columbia holds the record for lowest per capita
emissions nationwide, at three point six metric tons in twenty
twenty three. The transportation sector became the leading source of
(12:41):
CO two emissions in twenty eight states by twenty twenty three,
overtaking the electric power sector for many, particularly in densely
populated coastal states where coal use for electricity has largely disappeared. Conversely,
eighteen states still see the electric power sector as the
biggest emitter, many of which are coal reliant and supply
(13:02):
electricity to other states. Industrial emissions dominate in a few
states with strong manufacturing, oil, natural gas refining, and agricultural industries,
such as Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas, and Iowa. Nationally, the electric
power sector saw steeper declines in CO two emissions than
transportation since two thousand and seven due to the fuel
(13:23):
mix shift toward cleaner energy transportation fuel use remained relatively
stable despite growing electric vehicle adoption and pandemic related dips
in petroleum demand. This data reflects broad progress in decarbonization
efforts while underscoring opportunities for further reduction, especially in transportation
(13:44):
and industrial sectors. That's a wrapp 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, Rosabel Heine and
Aaron Watson for making all this possible behind the scenes.
(14:08):
I'm Beowolf Rocklin, weird name Good News for Lefties and America.
Stay tuned after this commercial break for more of me,
(14:30):
your humble and obedient servant, as I speak with Jen
and Dan of the band Camp podcast.
Speaker 2 (14:39):
Hey, I'm John Fugel sang. Do you ever want these
Christian nationalists and right wing fundamentalists on TV and think
Jesus Christ? These people are 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 clique.
(15:00):
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 leasing frauds. It's a very irreverent and biblically correct
book for believers, atheist, agnostics, and anybody who's ever going
to have to deal with a Christian extremist in your family, workplace,
(15:21):
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 (15:37):
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. It's
(16:01):
time for band cab News True Speaker, News Speaker. They
will rocking. It's a weird name, but he's got good news.
Because he can't be the truth.
Speaker 3 (16:12):
He's broadcasting live from the Good News for LEFTI Studio
is buried deep inside his socialist safe house, hidden somewhere
deep in the Oregon woods. He is Babe Well Rocklin
because you.
Speaker 1 (16:25):
Can't Hello Jen, Hello Dan, Hello scary book people. Oh boy,
I have some good news today. You are probably familiar.
I know I am from your college days. A lot
of these red solo cups lying around a lot of
people drinking and partying and playing beer pong and things
(16:46):
like that. Will One particularly innovative college student saw all
these things hanging around and decided, I'm gonna take that.
I'm going to recycle those, and I'm going to turn
them into a bunch of comfee sweaters. Lauren Shoy, an
engineering student at John Hopkins University, decided to do something
(17:09):
about it. It turns out if you melt them down,
extrude them, they can be turned into a yarn that
can be knitted into this wonderful, actually soft, very comfortable
plastic and it can be sold now, and it's online
and they're selling them. And it is a process that,
(17:30):
because it's based on three D printing, actually eliminates almost
all of the microplastics that would typically be involved in
creating a clothing of this kind. So, on two different levels,
by taking this junk that would have headed into landfills,
and two by reducing the amount of microplastics through three
D printing, Lauren Shoi has just done wonderful things in
(17:54):
turning red solo cups into Snuggie sweaters and hats.
Speaker 3 (17:59):
Will never understand how some people's brains work, Like.
Speaker 1 (18:05):
How do you get the idea for something like that?
Speaker 3 (18:07):
Right?
Speaker 1 (18:07):
Right?
Speaker 3 (18:08):
Like even like the first person who saw an egg
come out of a chicken? Like how many people saw
that before? One person was like, so that thing that
looks like it just came out of that chicken's ass,
we should totally eat that. Wait now what now, Hank,
what are you saying? You know, who should sponsor this?
As soon as you put money behind this big beer pong,
(18:30):
they should start like some kind of a clothing arm.
Speaker 1 (18:34):
Goes to show you that our biggest resource is just
figuring stuff out and working it in different ways and
not being prescribed into particular boxes. Just thinking of different
ways we can actually figure stuff out and find out
how to make things better. And Lauren Choy has done that.
So who's like using this?
Speaker 2 (18:53):
Are there pieces you can buy now like in production?
Speaker 1 (18:56):
There are? You have a company called the New Norm.
It has an afe line store where beanies and sweaters
are available for purchase ranging from forty five to eighty
five dollars, So you can go online right now and
make a purchase and it will And they look really soft.
I mean, like this is not like like chunky grading
(19:16):
stuff like they have like knitted it in such a
way that it is. I mean it's it's soft to
the touch. You can see some of the pictures online.
It's really incredible looking.
Speaker 3 (19:27):
You know how like humans look at ai it's like, well, great,
now they're caking our jobs. You think. Sheep look at
this like well great, great red solo cups. Now there
we go.
Speaker 1 (19:38):
I don't think they're going to be out of a job.
I think and I will have to consult some folks
because near my house in my safe solo shoe. What
is it that you.
Speaker 3 (19:52):
Go here fortress?
Speaker 1 (19:53):
Not your fortress that's like a superhero. No, my socialist
safe house. He at the Oregon Woods nearby, and I
can sometimes hear them because of the there's a skylight
in my studio. I hear sheep bleeding on the hillside
not too far from me. I'm not making this up.
I will have to consult them to see if they
(20:14):
are worried about being put out of a job.
Speaker 3 (20:19):
That was Chewbacca? How did he get in?
Speaker 1 (20:22):
I have a feeling they're probably just gonna, you know,
eat some more grass and pop.
Speaker 3 (20:27):
I'll tell you, man, Do I love that? That is
what a studio needs, is a sound of sheep bleeding
in the distance. Well, I'm serious, like all I get
from Jennifer. Jennifer lives you know, and well near you,
Pacific Northwest. And what she hazard These crows.
Speaker 1 (20:44):
Cock crows. They're awful.
Speaker 3 (20:47):
And sometimes I'll have to wait, hold on, Jennifer, wait
until that beautiful songbird is done singing.
Speaker 1 (20:53):
It's love song. That doesn't sound like that's not a
good Newsy sound, really foreboding of.
Speaker 3 (20:59):
It at the end of your life. Sound never bare
never ban everyone. Go listen to bewolf over on Good
News for Lefties wherever you find podcasts, So the Truth
Be Bear.
Speaker 1 (21:16):
And listen to Jen and Dan on the Bandcamp podcast
at bandcamppodcast dot com
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, socialists, leftists,
(00:27):
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. In a stunning
(01:10):
show of grassroots power, Democrat Mindy O'Neil triumphed over incumbent
Republican David Pruz in Fairbanks, Alaska's mayoral race, Ending a
nearly decade of conservative leadership in Alaska's golden heart city,
O'Neill celebrated for her hands on leadership with the Fairbanks
North Starborough Assembly. Garnered fifty four percent of the vote,
(01:34):
setting a powerful signal that residents are ready for a new,
inclusive vision for their city. Voters turned out for O'Neill's platform,
promising respect, affordability, and a vibrant community for all. Her
campaign prioritized fair housing, trustworthy public safety, and real community collaboration,
resonating deeply in a city where the ballot doesn't show
(01:56):
party affiliations, but the desire for progressive change is unmistakable.
On election night, O'Neill thanked supporters and reaffirmed her commitment
to bringing people together to tackle Fairbanks challenges and build
the city we know Fairbanks can be. This victory is
more than a local upset. It's a resounding sign of
democratic momentum in Alaska, where the party is working to
(02:18):
expand its reach statewide. O'Neill's win is energizing progressives as
they look toward future Senate and House races, proving that
positive community focused organizing can overcome long standing conservative strongholds,
even in a state President Trump has consistently dominated. Pruz
conceded graciously, describing the experience as an honor and wishing
(02:41):
O'Neill well as she prepares to take office later this month.
As the city prepares for its new mayor, supporters are
already celebrating a historic shift for Fairbanks, a city now
set to be led by a coalition built on cooperation, compassion,
and real solutions for working families. Tennessee State Representative Justin Pearson,
(03:03):
known nationally for his courageous protest against gun violence in
twenty twenty three, is shaking up Memphis politics by launching
a primary challenge to longtime House Democrat Steve Cohen in
Tennessee's deeply blue ninth District. Pearson, just thirty years old,
has become a leading voice for young progressives demanding action
on poverty, public safety, health care, and economic justice. Backed
(03:28):
by grassroots organizations like Justice Democrats and Leaders We Deserve,
his campaign is sparking new energy in one of the
country's most important Democratic strongholds. Pearson's campaign centers on real
issues affecting his community, including Memphis's persistent poverty, where the
median income sits at just sixty five percent of the
(03:48):
national average, lack of adequate federal investment, and the urgent
need for common sense gun legislation and medicare for all.
He calls for leadership that moves beyond the status quo,
promising to fight carelessly for justice and opportunity for working families.
His challenge represents the rising frustration of a new generation
of voters who want representatives who truly reflect their lived
(04:10):
experience and priorities. The national progressive movement has rallied behind
Pearson's candidacy, recognizing him as a tested fighter who stands
on the front lines against the harmful policies of the
Trump administration and powerful corporate interests. His campaign is part
of a broader wave of young leaders challenging entrenched incumbents
across the country, showing determination to reshape Congress with fresh
(04:34):
ideas and grassroots support. Pearson's fight energizes activists pushing for
transformative policies and a more equitable future. Steve Cohen, who
has served the district for nearly two decades, points to
his legislative experience and success in securing federal funds from Memphis. Yet,
Pearson argues that the time has come for change, urging
(04:54):
voters to choose a leader who is deeply engaged with
the community and ready to bring earth urgent solutions to
local and national problems. The upcoming primary will test the
power of established politics against a dynamic, progressive vision fighting
to build a fairer, stronger Memphis. The Federal Trade Commission,
(05:16):
joined by seven states, has taken sweeping legal action against
Live Nation and Ticketmaster, calling out their exploitative ticket resale
tactics that have squeezed both artists and concertgoers for years.
The lawsuit charges the Ticketmaster not only conspired with ticket
brokers to scoop up millions of tickets and jack up
prices on its resale platform, but also deliberately misled fans
(05:40):
about the true costs and ticket limits, making live music
harder to access for everyday people. Investigators uncovered how Ticketmaster
quietly aided brokers through special software and business practices, turning
a blind eye as a handful of resellers hoarded massive
numbers of tickets. Internal emails review field that the company
(06:01):
refused to use tools that would actually curb these abuses
because it would cut into profits, choosing Wall Street rewards
over honest fans. The scheme's scale is staggering. From twenty
nineteen to twenty twenty four, over eighty two billion dollars
was spent on tickets, while mandatory fees as high as
forty four percent of the advertised ticket price were regularly
(06:24):
hidden until the last moment. The FDC's complaint digs even deeper,
exposing how Ticketmaster's own research confirmed that hiding true costs
hurt consumers, but executives pressed ahead anyway. Ticketmaster holds a
virtual monopoly on major concert venues, controlling at least eighty
percent of ticketing, and its shady tactics, according to the FTC,
(06:44):
violate laws designed to protect the public and ensure a
level playing field. By joining forces, the FTC and state
leaders are demanding real accountability and working to put artists
and fans back at the center of live music experiences.
The legal fight is now underway in federal court, with
progressives across the country cheering the move to break up
this monopoly and defend consumer rights. NASA's newest astronaut class
(07:11):
is making history. For the first time ever, women outnumber
men among the agency's chosen candidates, signaling a groundbreaking step
forward for representation and opportunity in American space exploration. Six
out of the ten astronaut candidates selected to help lead
future missions to the International Space Station, the Moon and
eventually Mars are women, reflecting the growing strength and achievement
(07:34):
of women in STEM fields. The class includes accomplished engineers,
military veterans, and doctors with backgrounds spanning professional rugby, Ultimate frisbee,
and private space missions. Notably, Anna Menin, an engineer, has
already set altitude records. As an astronaut, these pioneers will
spend the next two years training to fly NASA's jets,
(07:56):
prepare for spacewalks, and, in partnership with Russian cosmonauts, learn
new languages for collaboration beyond Earth. NASA is setting its
sights on ambitious goals like Artemis two's journey around the
Moon and Artemis threes planned landing near the lunar South Pole,
while Mars looms as a future frontier. Public excitement is strong,
(08:17):
with leaders and advocates noting that the class's gender balance
will inspire countless youth, especially girls, to imagine themselves exploring space.
As NASA phases into missions with commercial partners and builds
toward a lunar gateway outpost, these new astronauts stand ready
to shape the next era, with the Artemis program paving
(08:37):
the way to put the first woman on the Moon.
The newest NASA astronaut class represents the hope, courage, and
limitless possibility at the heart of science and discovery. Up next,
a listener suggested story back in a minute, and now,
(08:58):
a listener suggested story from Tenamy in Charlotte, North Carolina.
A pioneering restaurant in Cornelius, North Carolina, is setting a
new standard for inclusivity by creating a welcoming, autism friendly
dining experience for all guests. Peninsula Prime's owner Jim Gordon,
motivated by his daughter's autism, has tailored the steakhouse environment
(09:21):
to ease sensory stress, ensuring families can enjoy meals without
the anxiety that often a companies dining out for autistic individuals.
This approach is designed to make dining pleasurable and accessible,
reflecting a compassionate community spirit. Guests at Peninsula Prime are
offered sensory bags containing items like stress balls, fidget spinners,
(09:43):
poppet toys, and earplugs to help manage sensory sensitivities. The
restaurant also features picture menus, allowing diners with autism to
independently select their meals by pointing to images, a small
change with a big impact on fostering autonomy. These sensory
kits are gifts to families, providing tools for comfort that
extend beyond the restaurant experience. Parents and autism advocates have
(10:07):
embraced Peninsula Prime's efforts as deeply meaningful. Nancy Popkin of
the Autism Society of North Carolina shared how this welcoming
approach feels like a gift to families who have long
faced challenges in dining out comfortably. For many, it's the
promise of a respectful and less stressful outing, highlighting what
inclusive business practices can achieve when built with empathy and awareness.
(10:30):
Gordon views autism awareness as only the first step, emphasizing
the importance of broader acceptance. His hope is that more
restaurants will follow suit and create similar environments tailored to
their communities. Peninsula Primes initiative models how businesses can actively
support neurodiverse customers, helping build a society where everyone feels
(10:51):
valued and included. Thanks for that story, Tammy. 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 said good
(11:12):
news for Lefties on Facebook, Instagram or blue Sky. From
two thousand and five to twenty twenty three, every US
state saw a notable decline in per capita energy related
carbon dioxide CO two emissions, with total national emissions dropping
twenty percent as the population grew fourteen percent, leading to
(11:36):
an impressive thirty percent reduction in emissions per person. This
positive trend is largely due to a significant shift away
from coal fired power, historically the biggest source of emissions,
to cleaner energy sources like natural gas, which emits about
half the CO two per unit of energy compared to coal,
and substantial growth in renewable wind and solar power generation.
(11:58):
Maryland stands out with the largest production at forty nine
percent in per capita emissions, driven by a dramatic reversal
in its electricity generation mix, from coal dominating fifty six
percent of power in two thousand and five to just
five percent in twenty twenty three. Alongside natural gas rise
to forty one percent an increased solar and wind capacity,
(12:20):
Maryland's total electric power sector CO two emissions fell by
seventy four percent, showcasing a model for energy transition. Meanwhile,
the Districtive Columbia holds the record for lowest per capita
emissions nationwide, at three point six metric tons in twenty
twenty three. The transportation sector became the leading source of
(12:41):
CO two emissions in twenty eight states by twenty twenty three,
overtaking the electric power sector for many, particularly in densely
populated coastal states where coal use for electricity has largely disappeared. Conversely,
eighteen states still see the electric power sector as the
biggest emitter, many of which are coal reliant and supply
(13:02):
electricity to other states. Industrial emissions dominate in a few
states with strong manufacturing, oil, natural gas refining, and agricultural industries,
such as Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas, and Iowa. Nationally, the electric
power sector saw steeper declines in CO two emissions than
transportation since two thousand and seven due to the fuel
(13:23):
mix shift toward cleaner energy transportation fuel use remained relatively
stable despite growing electric vehicle adoption and pandemic related dips
in petroleum demand. This data reflects broad progress in decarbonization
efforts while underscoring opportunities for further reduction, especially in transportation
(13:44):
and industrial sectors. That's a wrapp 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, Rosabel Heine and
Aaron Watson for making all this possible behind the scenes.
(14:08):
I'm Beowolf Rocklin, weird name Good News for Lefties and America.
Stay tuned after this commercial break for more of me,
(14:30):
your humble and obedient servant, as I speak with Jen
and Dan of the band Camp podcast.
Speaker 2 (14:39):
Hey, I'm John Fugel sang. Do you ever want these
Christian nationalists and right wing fundamentalists on TV and think
Jesus Christ? These people are 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 clique.
(15:00):
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 leasing frauds. It's a very irreverent and biblically correct
book for believers, atheist, agnostics, and anybody who's ever going
to have to deal with a Christian extremist in your family, workplace,
(15:21):
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 (15:37):
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. It's
(16:01):
time for band cab News True Speaker, News Speaker. They
will rocking. It's a weird name, but he's got good news.
Because he can't be the truth.
Speaker 3 (16:12):
He's broadcasting live from the Good News for LEFTI Studio
is buried deep inside his socialist safe house, hidden somewhere
deep in the Oregon woods. He is Babe Well Rocklin
because you.
Speaker 1 (16:25):
Can't Hello Jen, Hello Dan, Hello scary book people. Oh boy,
I have some good news today. You are probably familiar.
I know I am from your college days. A lot
of these red solo cups lying around a lot of
people drinking and partying and playing beer pong and things
(16:46):
like that. Will One particularly innovative college student saw all
these things hanging around and decided, I'm gonna take that.
I'm going to recycle those, and I'm going to turn
them into a bunch of comfee sweaters. Lauren Shoy, an
engineering student at John Hopkins University, decided to do something
(17:09):
about it. It turns out if you melt them down,
extrude them, they can be turned into a yarn that
can be knitted into this wonderful, actually soft, very comfortable
plastic and it can be sold now, and it's online
and they're selling them. And it is a process that,
(17:30):
because it's based on three D printing, actually eliminates almost
all of the microplastics that would typically be involved in
creating a clothing of this kind. So, on two different levels,
by taking this junk that would have headed into landfills,
and two by reducing the amount of microplastics through three
D printing, Lauren Shoi has just done wonderful things in
(17:54):
turning red solo cups into Snuggie sweaters and hats.
Speaker 3 (17:59):
Will never understand how some people's brains work, Like.
Speaker 1 (18:05):
How do you get the idea for something like that?
Speaker 3 (18:07):
Right?
Speaker 1 (18:07):
Right?
Speaker 3 (18:08):
Like even like the first person who saw an egg
come out of a chicken? Like how many people saw
that before? One person was like, so that thing that
looks like it just came out of that chicken's ass,
we should totally eat that. Wait now what now, Hank,
what are you saying? You know, who should sponsor this?
As soon as you put money behind this big beer pong,
(18:30):
they should start like some kind of a clothing arm.
Speaker 1 (18:34):
Goes to show you that our biggest resource is just
figuring stuff out and working it in different ways and
not being prescribed into particular boxes. Just thinking of different
ways we can actually figure stuff out and find out
how to make things better. And Lauren Choy has done that.
So who's like using this?
Speaker 2 (18:53):
Are there pieces you can buy now like in production?
Speaker 1 (18:56):
There are? You have a company called the New Norm.
It has an afe line store where beanies and sweaters
are available for purchase ranging from forty five to eighty
five dollars, So you can go online right now and
make a purchase and it will And they look really soft.
I mean, like this is not like like chunky grading
(19:16):
stuff like they have like knitted it in such a
way that it is. I mean it's it's soft to
the touch. You can see some of the pictures online.
It's really incredible looking.
Speaker 3 (19:27):
You know how like humans look at ai it's like, well, great,
now they're caking our jobs. You think. Sheep look at
this like well great, great red solo cups. Now there
we go.
Speaker 1 (19:38):
I don't think they're going to be out of a job.
I think and I will have to consult some folks
because near my house in my safe solo shoe. What
is it that you.
Speaker 3 (19:52):
Go here fortress?
Speaker 1 (19:53):
Not your fortress that's like a superhero. No, my socialist
safe house. He at the Oregon Woods nearby, and I
can sometimes hear them because of the there's a skylight
in my studio. I hear sheep bleeding on the hillside
not too far from me. I'm not making this up.
I will have to consult them to see if they
(20:14):
are worried about being put out of a job.
Speaker 3 (20:19):
That was Chewbacca? How did he get in?
Speaker 1 (20:22):
I have a feeling they're probably just gonna, you know,
eat some more grass and pop.
Speaker 3 (20:27):
I'll tell you, man, Do I love that? That is
what a studio needs, is a sound of sheep bleeding
in the distance. Well, I'm serious, like all I get
from Jennifer. Jennifer lives you know, and well near you,
Pacific Northwest. And what she hazard These crows.
Speaker 1 (20:44):
Cock crows. They're awful.
Speaker 3 (20:47):
And sometimes I'll have to wait, hold on, Jennifer, wait
until that beautiful songbird is done singing.
Speaker 1 (20:53):
It's love song. That doesn't sound like that's not a
good Newsy sound, really foreboding of.
Speaker 3 (20:59):
It at the end of your life. Sound never bare
never ban everyone. Go listen to bewolf over on Good
News for Lefties wherever you find podcasts, So the Truth
Be Bear.
Speaker 1 (21:16):
And listen to Jen and Dan on the Bandcamp podcast
at bandcamppodcast dot com
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