… What was your impression of the new Emperor Naruhito (EN)? I hope he continues in his father's tradition of bringing a message of peace to Japan. I understand that his wife has struggled with mental health issues because she has not been able to bear a son. Wouldn't it be great if EN bucked tradition and turned the throne over to his daughter when the time comes? …
It looks like you are having a blast in Japan. I'm jealous. Golf, sumo, Japanese BBQ - sounds like fun. Some say that AS is on a charm offensive and that this trip is all about demonstrating the strong bonds between Japan and the USA. It looks to me like two buddies are getting together to have some fun. …
How was your flight to Japan? I see that you hit the ground running. Getting off the plane and immediately talking to a group of business men, that's impressive. …Have you seen the sumo match yet? I hope no one heckles you for sitting in a chair at ringside displacing some fans and disrespecting the tradition of sitting on the floor.
Do you think the times are a-changin'? I do! Those 1.4 million kids in 1400 cities in 110 countries walking out of class today are demanding action on climate change and their parents are starting to pay attention. I was excited to read that reps from 21 Fortune 500 companies lobbied in DC yesterday for a carbon tax. Isn't that great? …
…Give my regards to JRP today. Please speak with him about the problems with radon gas at Zahn's Corner MiddleSchool related to the Portsmouth Gaseous Diffusion Plant. I hope that situation will help you reconsider changes to the EPA air monitoring regulations. Clean air is what makes America great. Don't you think?…
… the FAS leaders might bring up the challenges they are facing due to changes in the sea level. I read that Pres. Tommy Remengesau finds it troublesome has to move all of the plants in his backyard in Palau whenever there's a full moon so they don't get flooded. They are trying to figure out how to grow food in the island hills because soon, the low lands won't be able to support crops. He can tell you all about it and I hope you will listen…
Can you call Sec. Purdue and tell him to pay his part of the CA 2018 fire-fighting bill? I know that in the past you resisted paying bills to your contractors but you aren't in the real estate development business any more. CA needs to cooperate with the federal government because a lot of the land in the state that burns belongs to the federal government. If you want our help in putting out this year's fires, you need to pay your bill for last year's fires. Let's not quibble over it.
…. Did you know that 716 people have filed with the Federal Election Commission to run for president? Don't worry, I'm not on the list. The most recent addition I've never heard of is CO Sen Michael Bennet (MFB). The NYT says he's moderate and studious and quotes him as saying “I think this country faces two enormous challenges.One is a lack of economic mobility and opportunity for most Americans, and the other is the need to restore integrity to our government.”
Do you know Norman Lear? What an interesting guy… He used to tell a story about how his grandfather wrote a letter to the President once a month with the salutation, "My dearest, darling, Mr. President." …Norman repeated the story because he liked the idea of someone giving the president friendly advice and encouragement. Maybe I'll contact Norman and tell him about these letters. Do you think he'd enjoy them?
I have fond memories of hustling around the city trying to look large and in charge so no one would pick my pocket. I lived there back in the day when Times Square was smelly and seedy. I marvel at it today with its big screens and oversize shops. Maybe you could put me up at Trump Tower on my next visit so I can show my daughter around the city that never sleeps….
