The Daily Beans – Episode: "A Touch Of Grace"
Release Date: January 2, 2025
Host/Authors: MSW Media (Allison Gill and Dana Goldberg)
Introduction
In the January 2, 2025 episode of The Daily Beans, hosts Allison Gill and Dana Goldberg dive into a series of alarming and significant events that mark the beginning of the year. From explosive incidents to historic political milestones, the episode delivers a blend of intense news coverage and uplifting community stories, all infused with the show's signature progressive perspective and sharp wit.
Major News Stories
1. Terrorist Attack in New Orleans
Timestamp: [03:00 – 08:15]
The episode opens with a harrowing report from the Associated Press about a devastating terrorist attack in New Orleans. An army veteran, identified as Shamsu Din Jabar, 42, detonated multiple improvised explosive devices and drove a pickup truck adorned with the Islamic State flag into a crowd celebrating New Year's Eve in the French Quarter. The attack resulted in at least 10 fatalities and over 30 injuries before Jabar was fatally shot by police.
Notable points include:
- FBI Investigation: The FBI is treating the incident as terrorism and believes Jabar did not act alone, uncovering over 150 explosive devices in his Virginia home (Timestamp: [04:30]).
- Government Response: President Joe Biden commented, "There is no justification for violence of any kind and we will not tolerate any attack on any of our nation's communities" ([07:45]).
- Community Impact: The tragedy led to the postponement of a major college football playoff game and left the community in shock.
Quote:
"This is not just an act of terrorism, this is evil."
— New Orleans Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick ([07:10])
2. Tesla Cybertruck Explosion Near Trump Hotel
Timestamp: [08:16 – 12:13]
Following the New Orleans incident, Dana Goldberg reports on a mysterious explosion involving a Tesla Cybertruck outside the Trump Hotel in Las Vegas. The explosion resulted in one fatality and seven injuries. Tesla CEO Elon Musk attributed the explosion to external factors, suggesting the presence of explosives or large fireworks in the truck, distancing the event from the vehicle's integrity.
Key highlights:
- Official Statements: Las Vegas Police emphasized heightened security measures following the New Orleans attack and are investigating potential connections ([09:50]).
- Suspected Causes: Investigators are evaluating whether fireworks were responsible, as suggested by Musk ([11:30]).
- Political Undertones: The incident has political implications given the location near the Trump Hotel, with comments from Eric Trump expressing concern over guest safety ([10:59]).
Quote:
"There is no longer a threat to the Las Vegas community."
— Sheriff Kevin McMahal of Las Vegas Police Department ([11:10])
3. Largest Seizure of Explosive Devices in FBI History
Timestamp: [12:14 – 16:10]
Allison Gill delves into the arrest of Brad Spafford, a Virginia man apprehended after federal authorities discovered an unprecedented cache of over 150 homemade explosive devices at his residence. This marks the largest seizure of finished explosive devices in FBI history.
Details include:
- Charges and Evidence: Spafford faces unlawful possession of an unregistered short-barrel rifle and construction of pipe bombs, with some devices marked as lethal ([14:30]).
- Extremist Motives: The phrase "No Lives Matter" found at the scene aligns with extremist ideologies promoting violence and mass killings ([15:10]).
- Impact on Family: Disturbingly, Spafford lived with two young children, raising concerns about domestic safety amidst his extremist activities ([15:20]).
Quote:
"Brad Spafford poses an extreme danger, exhibiting support for political assassinations and seeking qualifications in sniper rifle shooting."
— Court Filings ([14:50])
4. Sarah McBride’s Historic Congressional Debut
Timestamp: [16:24 – 24:20]
Shifting to a more uplifting narrative, hosts highlight Sarah McBride's groundbreaking election to the U.S. Congress. McBride, a transgender trailblazer, becomes the first openly transgender member of Congress, representing Delaware. Her journey is portrayed as a beacon of hope amidst a politically charged environment challenging transgender rights.
Key aspects:
- Political Challenges: McBride faces resistance from Republican colleagues, including proposals to ban transgender individuals from Capitol restrooms. Despite pressure, she emphasizes diplomacy and grace in her approach ([19:00]).
- Personal Background: McBride’s dedication to public service began in her youth, culminating in her role as Delaware's first openly transgender state senator and subsequent congressional victory ([20:00]).
- Vision and Values: Committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive democracy, McBride advocates for kindness and unity over divisiveness ([23:00]).
Quote:
"I take with me the hope that we have genuinely more in common than what divides us. We have a politics of grace and progress, not pettiness."
— Sarah McBride ([19:45])
Good News Segment
Timestamp: [28:15 – 37:13]
In contrast to the intense major news stories, the hosts present a heartfelt "Good News" segment featuring listener submissions that celebrate personal victories, community efforts, and moments of joy.
Highlights include:
- Healthcare Success: A listener shares relief over successfully waiting for Medicare benefits for a critical hip replacement, avoiding exorbitant out-of-pocket costs ([28:15]).
- Pet Stories: Heartwarming photos and stories of rescued pets, including Dewey the cat and Dexter the Dandie Dinmont Terrier, illustrate the importance of animal adoption and companionship ([29:07 – 34:18]).
- Creative Achievements: Another listener details their journey with a plural collective mindset, culminating in the acceptance of their poetry in an online publication, showcasing resilience and creative expression ([31:11 – 31:51]).
- Community Engagement: Ann Marie celebrates witnessing community members actively improving their environment and shares positive health news after a cancer screening ([33:30 – 35:36]).
- Inspirational Messages: Judy from Kansas finds solace in World War II documentaries, drawing parallels to current struggles against rising fascism, and shares empowering Winston Churchill quotes ([35:46 – 37:13]).
Notable Quote:
"Success is not final. Failure is not fatal. It is the courage to continue that counts."
— Winston Churchill, shared by Judy ([36:00])
Conclusion
The episode concludes with Allison and Dana reaffirming their commitment to delivering both critical news and positive stories, encouraging listeners to engage with the community and support one another. They emphasize the importance of taking care of mental health, family, and the planet as the new year unfolds.
Final Message:
"Take care of yourselves, take care of each other, take care of the planet, take care of your mental health and take care of your family."
— Allison Gill ([38:50])
Production Credits
- Written and Executive Produced by: Allison Gill
- Additional Research and Reporting by: Dana Goldberg
- Sound Design and Editing: Desiree McFarlane
- Art and Web Design: Joelle Reader with Moxie Design Studios
- Music: They Might Be Giants
- Network: MSW Media Network
For more information, visit mswmedia.com.
This summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and conclusions from "A Touch Of Grace" episode of The Daily Beans, providing a comprehensive overview for both regular listeners and newcomers.