Q-and-A

 1.  Ukraine on a 'win-streak'?

Well....for the past ten days....the Russians have shown a nature to retreat.  There was long forecasted that as August-September came.....more advanced weapons would arrive for the Ukrainians, and the evolution of the war would take place.

Right now, there's around 10,000 Russian conscripts in a 'pocket' and without much on logistical support.  They need to be removed, or face some kind of surrender.  I expect this trend to continue through October and November.  

2.  The CDU Party in Germany (Merkel's old group) setting a quota for women in leadership?

Yes, from party members.....for leadership positions, there has to be a fairly level playing field by the new rules established.  Not a positive or negative.....just a situation to say the CDU desire to be like the SPD and Greens.

3.  Did the German Association of Towns and Municipalities come out with a worry statement yesterday on blackouts this winter?

Yes, but it was aimed at retirement homes and hospitals....suggesting they were not prepared for this event.  

4.  Another scandal brewing for public TV/radio?

N-24 brought up this issue of directors/executives going off on meeting trips/conferences....without any oversight/audit of cost/expenses.  There's some effort going on to show 'permissions' but it'll beg the question....how has money been spent the past decade?  

5.  Some chatter going on in Germany to nationalize the power companies? 

Yes, but mostly from the far left, and there's no real public support at present for this idea to occur.  

6.  Coke versus Edeka (the grocery chain) war going on?

Well....Coke raised its prices and Edeka said 'no'.....to the extent that they won't allow delivery or sales within their grocery chain.  Coke is upset about this, and even tried to get the court to order Edeka to sell their sodas.  Yesterday, the court said 'no'.

What Coke runs currently in the 1.5 liter container?  Around 99 Euro cents, with the quarter deposit fee on the plastic container.  I should note, if you were buying in the smaller containers or cans.....it is a bit more expensive per ounce.

I should note that I regularly use Edeka and they have a fair amount of drink competition so you don't really miss Coke that much.