Good Morning, PDX

Mike checks in from Portland, Oregon, on a bright morning, providing an update on his romantic life, interacting with viewers, and emphasizing the importance of community engagement. He announces plans for a glamping retreat centered around time-related themes and live music.

Hello, this is Mike George coming at you live from Portland, Oregon, which is pretty much the base of my present-day operations. It is currently 8:40 on a beautiful Thursday morning, 20 August 2020. Since I have a captive audience, I wanted to do a quick weather report. It’s a beautiful day outside, and you can hear the neighbors with their lawn equipment, which usually means it’s a good day.

I was trying to find some Weather Channel music to set the mood, but I couldn't find it, so we're going with the 'Star-Spangled Banner' instead. Since this has become an international edition, I’ll also give a nod to the Canadian national anthem—I’m a former Canadian, so I’ve got to support my country!

I’ve been adding some new songs to my playlist as I think about what the glamping retreat will entail this spring. It’s going to take place during the start of Daylight Savings Time, which might mess with people's heads a bit. It reminds me of that episode of The Adventures of Pete and Pete where they travel through 'episodes of time.'

As always, this show is interactive. I’m watching your comments and suggestions. I’m just hanging out, smoking a bowl because it reminds me of a normal day at the office. Remember the old days when your boss had a liquor cabinet and you could just go in for a glass of whiskey on a Friday afternoon? I hope to be that kind of boss someday—someone my colleagues can talk to, especially when they aren't having a good day.

I also wanted to share a video from Robert Reich, my favorite economist. He really makes sense of the world for me. In the clip, he’s talking about political engagement and how even if it feels like leadership isn't listening, your comments and letters are registering at some level.

We’re closing out today with 'Dreams' by The Cranberries—thanks to Jared Castro for adding that to the playlist. It always reminds me of growing up in the '90s. Also, a quick life update: even though my boyfriend Jared manages a dispensary, I’ve actually been smoking less weed lately. The Lord works in mysterious ways\!

Make the right choice this year, everyone. Don’t mess it up. Peace!