It was a cold day in Hell, Michigan today. The temperature at 7:30 AM today was zero degrees Fahrenheit. Hell has frozen over.
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Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis on Tuesday announced plans to block state colleges from having programs on diversity, equity and inclusion, and critical race theory. The governor debuted the proposal as part of a larger, higher education legislative package that is expected to be taken up by the GOP-controlled statehouse when its regular session begins in March.
Maybe it is time for Governor DeSantis and I to have a conversation about the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion programs. One of the proudest moments of my career was when I was named the first ever Laurita Thomas Diversity Champion at the University of Michigan Hospitals and Health Centers. I would tell DeSantis that DEI is not only the right thing to do as a human being, but it is also the right thing to do as a leader and a businessperson. Creating an environment of DEI makes your business appealing to a broader employment pool. Having a diverse employee base expands ideas, knowledge, understanding and awareness. Having a diverse employee base which is similar to your customer base makes your business more appealing and welcoming to a broader customer base, which converts to greater revenue and profits.
If DeSantis really cared about the best interest of all Floridians and the best interest of the State of Florida, its government, its schools, and its businesses he would welcome DEI not block it.
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One of the appeals to me of the Laverne and Shirley Show was they worked in a brewery during the 70s, just as I had. They worked at Shotz brewery and I worked at Stroh brewery, which by itself makes for great comedy. The show introduced us to the comic genius of Cindy Williams and Penny Marshall. No matter how many times I have seen Laverne and Shirley episodes, I always laugh. One of my favorites was when they met Fabian. Cindy Williams may have passed away today but her comedy genius will live for a very long time. See my Video of the Day.
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Quote of the Day: “Cindy has been my friend and professional colleague since I met her on the set of Happy Days in 1975. Not once have I ever been in her presence when she wasn’t gracious, thoughtful and kind. Cindy’s talent was limitless. There was not a genre she could not conquer. I am so glad I knew her.” Henry “Fonzie” Winkler
Orchid of the Day: Cindy Williams, for her comedic genius.
Onion of the Day: Governor DeSantis, see above story.
Question of the Day: Why does DEI scare so many people?
Video of the Day: