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John Deere cut more than $1,300 jobs in Iowa so far this year

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I feel for the loyal workers at John Deere, who for decades created wealth for the billionaires, and doing so at great cost to themselves, both physically and mentally. I’m sad for the 1,104 Iowa plants workers that have lost their jobs this year alone. I think it’s safe to say the jury’s no longer out; the supply-side promise was and remains a failure for the economy at large. The wealth never trickled down and the lower tiers of society, which are on an accelerating decline, and that’s caused all kinds of societal dysfunction (decay, crime, illness, homelessness). It's a fundamental fact that commerce relies on robust economic activity – a balance between cost of living and living wages – but no one’s explaining how the growing working-poor sector is going to keep Iowa business afloat. Sub-living (& lost) wages for Iowans is cutting into business’ ability to remain a going concern in our state. Slashing payroll to fund stock dividends and $845 million in buybacks per quarter
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The Invisible Orchestra: From Farm to Feast

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Modern dining, despite its seemingly simple act of consumption, is a carefully orchestrated performance. It involves a complex network of people, from the farmer nurturing the soil to the delivery driver ensuring the meal arrives piping hot. This intricate dance, often invisible to the diner, highlights the value we often take for granted in a convenient, prepared meal. The "farm to table" movement emphasizes the journey food takes before reaching our plates. Farmers cultivate crops, raise livestock, and ensure responsible practices throughout the process. Processors clean, package, and distribute the ingredients. Chefs, with their creativity and skill, transform these elements into delicious dishes. Restaurants, with their carefully trained staff, provide a seamless dining experience. While delivery services offer undeniable convenience, the logistics behind them are impressive. They act as conductors, coordinating with farms, restaurants, and delivery drivers to ensure a sm
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The Engine of Commerce: Living Wages and a Thriving American Economy

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A healthy economy thrives on a delicate balance. Just like any complex system, it requires equitable inputs to generate sufficient outputs. In the case of the American market, often visualized as a vast monetary loop with international connections, the initial spark of input arguably comes from consumers – the lifeblood of retail purchases. But for this engine to truly hum, a crucial element is often overlooked: living wages. Far from being a handout, living wages are the very fuel that propels a thriving American commerce. We define living wages as personal income sufficient not just for basic needs, but to fully participate in society. This means supporting oneself and any dependents with a dignified standard of living. When a significant portion of the population struggles to afford necessities, the economic engine sputters. Discretionary spending – the fuel for a flourishing retail sector – dries up. Businesses struggle to attract a broad enough customer base to s
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