Alan Markow

Professional writer and communicator 40+ years. Senior corporate communications exec in high tech, telecom, banking, and chemicals. Navy journalist during Vietnam era. IVN blogger since inception. Political views range from liberal to libertarian.

AMAC vs. AARP: Fighting for the Hearts and Minds of Seniors

We’ve all heard about the war on drugs, war on women and war on Christmas, but did you know there’s a war on the AARP as well? A

By Alan Markow

/ June 17, 2012

AMAC vs. AARP: Fighting for the Hearts and Minds of Seniors

Super-Sizing the Nanny State: Does Mayor Bloomberg Have a Point?

Consider the possibility that we might need a nanny state – at least in some areas. New York City Mayor Mike Bloomberg’s war on super-sized sugary drinks has raised the

By Alan Markow

/ June 13, 2012

Super-Sizing the Nanny State: Does Mayor Bloomberg Have a Point?

Dozens of CA State Parks, Caught in Budget Vise, Slated to Close

California’s state parks are admired by visitors from all over. Tourists come and are amazed at the quality and quantity of the state park system and envy us our

By Alan Markow

/ June 11, 2012

Dozens of CA State Parks, Caught in Budget Vise, Slated to Close

Top Two Primaries Bring Different Look to November Elections

Results of California’s top-two open primary will undoubtedly leave some voters shaking their heads in consternation when they cast their ballots in November. First, there will be only a

By Alan Markow

/ June 8, 2012

Top Two Primaries Bring Different Look to November Elections

Unions Take a Beating in Wisconsin Gubernatorial Recall Vote

In 1959, Wisconsin became the first state in the nation to embrace collective bargaining for their public sector unions. 53 years later, the voters of Wisconsin rebuffed public unions when

By Alan Markow

/ June 7, 2012

Unions Take a Beating in Wisconsin Gubernatorial Recall Vote

Linda Parks Seeks First Independent Congressional Seat

Linda Parks thinks she can become the first “I” in the House of Representatives by not being a "me, too" politician. “Being independent gives me a platform for

By Alan Markow

/ June 4, 2012

Linda Parks Seeks First Independent Congressional Seat

Financial Crisis Highlights Fault Lines in American Political Process

During this period of economic crises for our country and its people, one would think the priority of national leaders would be finding solutions and working together to right the

By Alan Markow

/ June 3, 2012

Financial Crisis Highlights Fault Lines in American Political Process

StartUp Act Would Increase Visas to Foreign Students, Entrepreneurs

If the United States ends up offering an “entrepreneur’s visa” for promising graduate students and new business developers, it will be following a trail blazed in other parts of

By Alan Markow

/ May 31, 2012

StartUp Act Would Increase Visas to Foreign Students, Entrepreneurs

Spending Binge by Super PACs Fires Up Opposition to Citizens United

The Supreme Court’s Citizens United decision, which created an environment of unbridled campaign financing through the funding of Super PACs, is now being challenged on at least four fronts.

By Alan Markow

/ May 28, 2012

Spending Binge by Super PACs Fires Up Opposition to Citizens United

Will Chinese Downturn Impact U.S. Presidential Politics?

The U.S. recovery is the most hotly debated topic in national politics, but news from China may end up impacting the nation’s economy more than any of the

By Alan Markow

/ May 26, 2012

Will Chinese Downturn Impact U.S. Presidential Politics?

Mulattieri Adds Unique, Independent Voice to CD-39 Race

D’Marie Mulattieri, Independent candidate for the District 39 Congressional seat, is a radical thinker in a rational package. She’s a fearless competitor who doesn’t mince words about

By Alan Markow

/ May 24, 2012

Mulattieri Adds Unique, Independent Voice to CD-39 Race

Lincoln Council Candidate Puts Personal Touch in Campaign

Two business careers and a stint as a Bay Area mayor are simply not enough for Peter Gilbert. Now the retiree wants to become a member of Lincoln, CA’s

By Alan Markow

/ May 21, 2012

Lincoln Council Candidate Puts Personal Touch in Campaign