Hi again everyone! Ok, my long absences are starting to get ridiculous. But it's almost 2011 (my graduation year!) and my New Years Resolution will to try to post more often here (I'm making no guarantees though!). I hope you all had a great Christmas. I did, and I am enjoying a much needed break from school and all things requring mental activity...but I missed blogging!
Speaking of Christmas...I have been thinking quite a bit about how much I enjoyed spending it at home with my family, with our tree and lights, annual Christmas Eve crab cakes (yum!) and other fun stuff...and how many of America's greatest heroes are deprived of that cherished family time this holiday season because they are serving overseas. It makes me realize how lucky I am. I could ramble on all day of how their sacrifice and dedication has given every one of us so much, but there really are no words to express my gratitude to our armed forces. Remember that they have put their lives on hold to serve, and put their lives on the line daily, in defense of our nation. To any present or past soldiers reading this, thank you! :)
I've spoken of Soldiers Angels in a previous blog post, but I'd like to bring it up again. In 2011, make a difference in the life of someone who is fighting for your freedom. There are various ways to get involved at www.soldiersangels.com... you can either Adopt A Soldier, or if you are not wanting that commitment, join a team, such as the Letter Writing Team. It is rewarding to simply put my feelings down on paper and thank deployed soldiers for what they are doing, even though I may never hear back from them. Consider it in the coming year...you'll be glad you did. :)
Well that's all for now, I'll try to post again soon... until then, a few interesting quotes by 30th US president Calvin Coolidge!
"Don't expect to build up the weak by pulling down the strong."
"Industry, thrift and self-control are not sought because they create wealth, but because they create character."
"Patriotism is easy to understand in America. It means looking out for yourself by looking out for your country."
"The nation which forgets its defenders will be itself forgotten."
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
A Date Which Will Live in Infamy
Sixty-nine years ago today, December 7, 1941 became “a date which will live in infamy”…when Japanese forces brutally attacked Pearl Harbor, as well as several islands in the South Pacific and Asian cities. I found a few pictures to share and excerpts from President Theodore Roosevelt’s speech to commemorate the day…it is depressing and sad, yes, but it’s history. It really happened. We must remember with respect and awe those who lived and fought through it, and with an equal or greater respect and honor remember those who laid down their lives during the attack on Pearl Harbor, and those who perished in the war that followed.
I’m not a Theodore Roosevelt fan by any means, but one particular quote in his December 8, 1941 speech rings true still today, as it has for America’s 234 year history: “No matter how long it may take us to overcome this premeditated invasion, the American people in their righteous might will win through to absolute victory.”
Some further excerpts I thought particularly meaningful…
“Hostilities exist. There is no blinking at the fact that our people, our territory and our interests are in grave danger. With confidence in our armed forces - with the unbounding determination of our people - we will gain the inevitable triumph - so help us God.”
Read the complete speech here: http://www.famousquotes.me.uk/speeches/presidential-speeches/presidential-speech-franklin-roosevelt-pearl-harbour.htm
**NOTE: The pictures are so large they don't fit completely on the blog page, so if you want to see the entire image just click on it and it will come up. :)
Seattle Times pics: http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/picturethis/2013606285_pt_pearl.html
If you’re wanting to watch a good movie on Pearl Harbor in honor of December 7 (maybe I’m the only one that plans my, though relatively sparse, movie watching schedule around historic holidays, but you never know!) I’d say the best one I’ve seen is Tora! Tora! Tora! (That’s really the name of it…means attack! In Japanese I think.) It is extremely detailed and gives the story from both the American side and the Japanese side leading up to the attack. http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0066473/
Oh, and how can I forget one of my most favorite quotes, said by Japanese Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto after the attack… "I fear all we have done is to awaken a sleeping giant and fill him with a terrible resolve."
On a lighter note, I’m proud to announce that Present Day Patriots is now on the blog roll (a list of conservative blogs) on Smart Girl Politics.com. If you’re not a member of SGP, consider joining—it’s a free social network of like-minded patriots. Check it out at www.smartgirlpolitics.ning.com.!
Also, for my fellow Glenn Beck fans, in select theaters there will be an encore presentation of his “Broke” Town Hall meeting this Wednesday, December 8. There are quite a few participating theaters in the St. Louis area, so if you’re interested in buying tickets for Wednesday, click here to find a theater near you… http://www.glennbeck.com/content/events/?ibid=broke
Well, just wanted to drop in and post real quick since it is a very important day in our history...have a great rest of the week, I hope to post again soon! Until then...
Thank you Lord for allowing me to live in this beautiful country and give all Americans the strength to live and preserve American ideals so as to not let those who have died for our freedom have died in vain.
I’m not a Theodore Roosevelt fan by any means, but one particular quote in his December 8, 1941 speech rings true still today, as it has for America’s 234 year history: “No matter how long it may take us to overcome this premeditated invasion, the American people in their righteous might will win through to absolute victory.”
Some further excerpts I thought particularly meaningful…
“Hostilities exist. There is no blinking at the fact that our people, our territory and our interests are in grave danger. With confidence in our armed forces - with the unbounding determination of our people - we will gain the inevitable triumph - so help us God.”
Read the complete speech here: http://www.famousquotes.me.uk/speeches/presidential-speeches/presidential-speech-franklin-roosevelt-pearl-harbour.htm
**NOTE: The pictures are so large they don't fit completely on the blog page, so if you want to see the entire image just click on it and it will come up. :)
Seattle Times pics: http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/picturethis/2013606285_pt_pearl.html
If you’re wanting to watch a good movie on Pearl Harbor in honor of December 7 (maybe I’m the only one that plans my, though relatively sparse, movie watching schedule around historic holidays, but you never know!) I’d say the best one I’ve seen is Tora! Tora! Tora! (That’s really the name of it…means attack! In Japanese I think.) It is extremely detailed and gives the story from both the American side and the Japanese side leading up to the attack. http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0066473/
Oh, and how can I forget one of my most favorite quotes, said by Japanese Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto after the attack… "I fear all we have done is to awaken a sleeping giant and fill him with a terrible resolve."
On a lighter note, I’m proud to announce that Present Day Patriots is now on the blog roll (a list of conservative blogs) on Smart Girl Politics.com. If you’re not a member of SGP, consider joining—it’s a free social network of like-minded patriots. Check it out at www.smartgirlpolitics.ning.com.!
Also, for my fellow Glenn Beck fans, in select theaters there will be an encore presentation of his “Broke” Town Hall meeting this Wednesday, December 8. There are quite a few participating theaters in the St. Louis area, so if you’re interested in buying tickets for Wednesday, click here to find a theater near you… http://www.glennbeck.com/content/events/?ibid=broke
Well, just wanted to drop in and post real quick since it is a very important day in our history...have a great rest of the week, I hope to post again soon! Until then...
Thank you Lord for allowing me to live in this beautiful country and give all Americans the strength to live and preserve American ideals so as to not let those who have died for our freedom have died in vain.
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Soldiers Angels
Hey everyone! Hope you all have had a great week! I don't know about everyone else but it's definitely starting to feel like winter here in Missouri. Yesterday, I found an awesome website posted by a Facebook friend that I feel is worth sharing, especially with Christmas coming up: www.soldiersangels.org. This organization allows you to directly support and communicate with our dedicated men and women in uniform overseas. You can sign up to send a one-time care package, or adopt a soldier and commit to sending at least one letter a week and at least one care package a month. Several years ago I adopted a soldier and it was one of the most rewarding experiences to know that the things I wrote and sent to the Middle East were helping a soldier risking everything for my sake and the sake of my country. I just adopted a soldier from Soldiers Angels yesterday...consider taking part in this. It is a way to say thank you to those who won't be able to be home this Christmas. Regardless if you're for or against the war, we cannot ignore the sacrifices our armed forces make on a daily basis in the name of freedom.
Also, for my fellow Missourians, I was reading the Lake Saint Louis Journal and came across a rather interesting story. The ACLU is filing a lawsuit against St. Charles County challenging a law restricting picketing/protesting at funerals. The legislation passed with a vote of 6-0 from the St. Charles County Council and, from the Newstime article...
"...defines 'picketing of a funeral' as 'protest activities engaged in by a person or persons located within 300 feet of the premises of a cemetary, mortuary, church or other place of worship or other location during, and which target or disrupt a funeral.' A person who commits unlawful picketing of a funeral 'during a period from one hour prior to the commencement of any funeral through one hour following the cessation of any funeral'...if convicted, would be guilty of a misdemeanor and fined in an amount not exceeding $1,000.'"
This is aimed at individuals that feel it necessary to gather at the funerals of American soldiers to sling horrible insults and obnoxiously protest (*cough* Westboro Baptist Church *cough*), which I think is absolutely disgusting. (There are many, many much more respectful ways to get your point across). The Kansas-based Westboro Baptist Church is being represented by the ACLU in the case, and claims that it violates free speech. (Westboro Baptist protests at funerals holding anti-gay signs, protesting the "nation's tolerance of gays.") Now I cannot say that I approve of that sexual orientation, but a fallen American soldiers funeral is no place to voice that opinion. This is an interesting case and I am wondering what others think of it... it could be said that this legislation is not in accordance with the First Amendment's definition of freedom of speech (as the ACLU claims).
Here's the First Amendment... "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances."
Personally I do not see it as affecting the freedom of speech at all; this law is not shutting up these protestors or outlawing their opinions, it is providing a time frame for when such action is not lawful. The folks of Westboro Baptist Church are free to protest to their little hearts content, as long as it's three hundred feet away. It could be said, also, this challenges the right of the people to "peaceably assemble"...but, one must ask, are those of Westboro Baptist Church being peaceable? And simply, is there any respect for the families of the fallen left in our country? It is sad to say, but obviously not.
Further, ACLU confuses me. Many, many times in the past they have fought for equality for gays in the military, such as this particular story regarding salaries. http://nymag.com/daily/intel/2010/11/aclu_challenges_another_milita.html However, now they defend a group who is unquestionably anti-homosexuality. Hmmm. I think profit speaks much louder than principle with the ACLU.
I encourage my County to stand by this ordinance, and agree with County Executive Steve Ehlmann who is quoted in the LSL Journal in saying, "...we think it's[the ordinance] the right thing to do to protect the rights of family members to memorialize their loved ones without outside disruption or disturbance. You'd think in this country we wouldn't have to pass laws like this because people would have the common decency not to disturb families who are grieving the loss of a loved one. But, unfortunately, this is necessary."
http://www.stltoday.com/news/local/stcharles/article_64ab695c-fd91-11df-99c9-0017a4a78c22.html
Well that is all for today...I will try to post again soon, until then remember to sign up for Soldiers Angels if you want to make a real difference in someone's life, and ponder this...
"The two enemies of the people are criminals and government, so let us
tie the second down with the chains of the Constitution so the second
will not become the legalized version of the first." - Thomas Jefferson
Also, for my fellow Missourians, I was reading the Lake Saint Louis Journal and came across a rather interesting story. The ACLU is filing a lawsuit against St. Charles County challenging a law restricting picketing/protesting at funerals. The legislation passed with a vote of 6-0 from the St. Charles County Council and, from the Newstime article...
"...defines 'picketing of a funeral' as 'protest activities engaged in by a person or persons located within 300 feet of the premises of a cemetary, mortuary, church or other place of worship or other location during, and which target or disrupt a funeral.' A person who commits unlawful picketing of a funeral 'during a period from one hour prior to the commencement of any funeral through one hour following the cessation of any funeral'...if convicted, would be guilty of a misdemeanor and fined in an amount not exceeding $1,000.'"
This is aimed at individuals that feel it necessary to gather at the funerals of American soldiers to sling horrible insults and obnoxiously protest (*cough* Westboro Baptist Church *cough*), which I think is absolutely disgusting. (There are many, many much more respectful ways to get your point across). The Kansas-based Westboro Baptist Church is being represented by the ACLU in the case, and claims that it violates free speech. (Westboro Baptist protests at funerals holding anti-gay signs, protesting the "nation's tolerance of gays.") Now I cannot say that I approve of that sexual orientation, but a fallen American soldiers funeral is no place to voice that opinion. This is an interesting case and I am wondering what others think of it... it could be said that this legislation is not in accordance with the First Amendment's definition of freedom of speech (as the ACLU claims).
Here's the First Amendment... "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances."
Personally I do not see it as affecting the freedom of speech at all; this law is not shutting up these protestors or outlawing their opinions, it is providing a time frame for when such action is not lawful. The folks of Westboro Baptist Church are free to protest to their little hearts content, as long as it's three hundred feet away. It could be said, also, this challenges the right of the people to "peaceably assemble"...but, one must ask, are those of Westboro Baptist Church being peaceable? And simply, is there any respect for the families of the fallen left in our country? It is sad to say, but obviously not.
Further, ACLU confuses me. Many, many times in the past they have fought for equality for gays in the military, such as this particular story regarding salaries. http://nymag.com/daily/intel/2010/11/aclu_challenges_another_milita.html However, now they defend a group who is unquestionably anti-homosexuality. Hmmm. I think profit speaks much louder than principle with the ACLU.
I encourage my County to stand by this ordinance, and agree with County Executive Steve Ehlmann who is quoted in the LSL Journal in saying, "...we think it's[the ordinance] the right thing to do to protect the rights of family members to memorialize their loved ones without outside disruption or disturbance. You'd think in this country we wouldn't have to pass laws like this because people would have the common decency not to disturb families who are grieving the loss of a loved one. But, unfortunately, this is necessary."
http://www.stltoday.com/news/local/stcharles/article_64ab695c-fd91-11df-99c9-0017a4a78c22.html
Well that is all for today...I will try to post again soon, until then remember to sign up for Soldiers Angels if you want to make a real difference in someone's life, and ponder this...
"The two enemies of the people are criminals and government, so let us
tie the second down with the chains of the Constitution so the second
will not become the legalized version of the first." - Thomas Jefferson
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
If not us, who?
Hi all! I haven't posted in awhile, and I have the usual excuse...school = busy busy busy! I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving...the news can get pretty depressing sometimes but we as Americans still have quite a lot to be thankful for.
No doubt many of you have probably seen something on the news about the Transportation Security Adminstration's new and extremely friendly (or intimate, whatever you want to call it) "security measures" for passengers of airline flights.
Travelers have two choices; in many airports, new x-ray machines using backscatter technology can screen you (in some airports, the old metal detectors are still being used) and also give you a free (though minute, but it's still there) dose of radiation and a racy pic that could possibly end up on the internet (http://www.theblaze.com/stories/broken-promises-body-scanner-stores-35000-pics-100-hit-the-web/ ) or, you can really get to know some random TSA agent by a physical pat down. And not just any pat down... this is just one story I found about a woman in Ohio: http://www.theblaze.com/stories/ohio-woman-outraged-by-tsa-pat-down-she-sexually-assaulted-me/
And, also, this story of a three-year-old recieving quite an intense pat down as well. Oh yes I said THREE years old. I don't know about you, but I were three years old and some random guy started touching me all over, I would probably freak out...just a little. (Ok, a lot.) The video has been disabled by YouTube, but heres the article... http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/sfmoms/detail?entry_id=77140&tsp=1
Are there any boundaries anymore? Will this administration stop at nothing to encroach on privacy more and more? Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano has endorsed actions that are seriously just plain sick and intrusive towards American citizens in the name of security. And yet, I wonder, if there is such a deep concern for our national security that we need to have individuals called "agents" putting their hands down our pants, why is the border open? Why can anyone just waltz through and get a job, a drivers license, etc? I have a hard time believing the Department of Homeland Security has our "best interests" at heart, considering there is now talk of the DHS withdrawing National Guard troops from the border by February.
http://washingtonexaminer.com/local/2010/11/texas-republicans-protest-plan-move-national-guard-troops-border
Here's another interesting video of a man's experience with TSA...
I'm all for security, and with my parents careers, I am definitely all for keeping our airports and aircraft completely safe from any and all terrorist attacks. But seriously, is the best we can come up with--possibly cancer causing x-ray machines that reveal everything, or getting a little too acquainted with a TSA agent? God help us.
On a lighter note, last Sunday at church I heard a particularly moving and meaningful sermon by Rev. Larry Maley (Dardenne Presbyterian Church). I don't want to recopy the entire sermon here, (though it's excellent--so if you want a copy I could email one to you...)but here is a brief excerpt that speaks for itself...
"This nation was birthed by people who sought to practice their Christian faith without fear and interference. They were the invading force for God's Kingdom in this land. Christian principles of personal responsibility and sacrifice built this nation...
Sadly our nation has strayed from its Biblical foundation. We have become a nation where Christians are being instructed to keep their religion to themselves. I am not advocating intolerance towards other religious expressions. I'm merely reminding God's people that the Lord showers blessings on those nations which honor God's righteousness and truth. So if we turn our back on the Lord and His Word, history tells us God will not be mocked.
The economic, social, and moral problems our nation is now experiencing are rooted in pride, power, greed, and selfishness. These are qualities which the Bible calls sin--which are being increasingly glorified in this land. These qualities are the very opposite from those which built this nation...
It is time for Christians to ask themselves the question, 'Are we being transformed by the values of this world (Romans 12:2), or are Christians transforming the world with the Gospel?'"
That last question really hit home with me, and I really hope that I am fulfilling the second half of it. What about you...is this world transforming you into something you aren't, into something you don't want to be? Or are you transforming this world for the better? This verse also used in the sermon I found particularly applicable and meaningful for our nation ......"If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from Heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land." (2 Chronicles 7:14)
Thank you, Rev. Maley for such an inspiring sermon.
That's all for tonight, I hope to post again soon! Speaking of humbling ourselves, seeking the Lord's face, and turning from our wicked ways to restore our nation...
"If not us, who? If not now, when?" -Ronald Reagan.
No doubt many of you have probably seen something on the news about the Transportation Security Adminstration's new and extremely friendly (or intimate, whatever you want to call it) "security measures" for passengers of airline flights.
Travelers have two choices; in many airports, new x-ray machines using backscatter technology can screen you (in some airports, the old metal detectors are still being used) and also give you a free (though minute, but it's still there) dose of radiation and a racy pic that could possibly end up on the internet (http://www.theblaze.com/stories/broken-promises-body-scanner-stores-35000-pics-100-hit-the-web/ ) or, you can really get to know some random TSA agent by a physical pat down. And not just any pat down... this is just one story I found about a woman in Ohio: http://www.theblaze.com/stories/ohio-woman-outraged-by-tsa-pat-down-she-sexually-assaulted-me/
And, also, this story of a three-year-old recieving quite an intense pat down as well. Oh yes I said THREE years old. I don't know about you, but I were three years old and some random guy started touching me all over, I would probably freak out...just a little. (Ok, a lot.) The video has been disabled by YouTube, but heres the article... http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/sfmoms/detail?entry_id=77140&tsp=1
Are there any boundaries anymore? Will this administration stop at nothing to encroach on privacy more and more? Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano has endorsed actions that are seriously just plain sick and intrusive towards American citizens in the name of security. And yet, I wonder, if there is such a deep concern for our national security that we need to have individuals called "agents" putting their hands down our pants, why is the border open? Why can anyone just waltz through and get a job, a drivers license, etc? I have a hard time believing the Department of Homeland Security has our "best interests" at heart, considering there is now talk of the DHS withdrawing National Guard troops from the border by February.
http://washingtonexaminer.com/local/2010/11/texas-republicans-protest-plan-move-national-guard-troops-border
Here's another interesting video of a man's experience with TSA...
I'm all for security, and with my parents careers, I am definitely all for keeping our airports and aircraft completely safe from any and all terrorist attacks. But seriously, is the best we can come up with--possibly cancer causing x-ray machines that reveal everything, or getting a little too acquainted with a TSA agent? God help us.
On a lighter note, last Sunday at church I heard a particularly moving and meaningful sermon by Rev. Larry Maley (Dardenne Presbyterian Church). I don't want to recopy the entire sermon here, (though it's excellent--so if you want a copy I could email one to you...)but here is a brief excerpt that speaks for itself...
"This nation was birthed by people who sought to practice their Christian faith without fear and interference. They were the invading force for God's Kingdom in this land. Christian principles of personal responsibility and sacrifice built this nation...
Sadly our nation has strayed from its Biblical foundation. We have become a nation where Christians are being instructed to keep their religion to themselves. I am not advocating intolerance towards other religious expressions. I'm merely reminding God's people that the Lord showers blessings on those nations which honor God's righteousness and truth. So if we turn our back on the Lord and His Word, history tells us God will not be mocked.
The economic, social, and moral problems our nation is now experiencing are rooted in pride, power, greed, and selfishness. These are qualities which the Bible calls sin--which are being increasingly glorified in this land. These qualities are the very opposite from those which built this nation...
It is time for Christians to ask themselves the question, 'Are we being transformed by the values of this world (Romans 12:2), or are Christians transforming the world with the Gospel?'"
That last question really hit home with me, and I really hope that I am fulfilling the second half of it. What about you...is this world transforming you into something you aren't, into something you don't want to be? Or are you transforming this world for the better? This verse also used in the sermon I found particularly applicable and meaningful for our nation ......"If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from Heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land." (2 Chronicles 7:14)
Thank you, Rev. Maley for such an inspiring sermon.
That's all for tonight, I hope to post again soon! Speaking of humbling ourselves, seeking the Lord's face, and turning from our wicked ways to restore our nation...
"If not us, who? If not now, when?" -Ronald Reagan.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Seeing Red: Election 2010!!!
Hey everyone! Well, I feel like America’s voice was heard loud and clear last night…with the Republicans taking the House of Representatives and running a very close race in the Senate. I myself was thrilled to have my vote counted in this midterm election, and I am proud to once again be living in a “red” state! Last night I was up late (and I mean ridiculously late) working on a school project, while also watching election results, of course—and contemplating what to write in this blog post...
You all know me; I tend to THINK a lot about things and voting was one of those things that I have THOUGHT a lot about. My brother and I walked to the polling place, just down the street from my house. I walked in the door and handed them my voter registration card, and received my ballot, with the names of candidates from FOUR political parties running for Senate. I voted (and I bet you can guess how) and as I turned in my ballot to the ballot box a flood of images and thoughts rushed through my head (you don’t have to remind me that I’m a nerd—I know!). Filling in the bubbles on that sheet of paper seems like such a tiny, insignificant thing that we take for granted and may even feel burdened by…until you stop and think of what it took to get to this point, and what it took and continues to take to secure and maintain the security of this right. I ramble on about the Founding Fathers and their sacrifices all time, but voting, to me, was directly taking part in something they fought a war, risked being hung for treason, and died to secure; the ability, and the responsibility of Americans to CHOOSE who they want to be represented by. It was riveting to think of the centuries of men and women that have come before me, those who risked everything fighting in war and in peace against forces who seek to destroy America’s free way of life, just to allow me to sit at that table in the basement of a church in a suburban Missouri town and choose my representatives. It was, in a word, an incredible experience!
And now for some of the finer points of Election 2010…the main event that was rather disappointing was Missouri’s Proposition B or the “Puppy Mill Initiative”… this passed 52% to 48%, with the metro areas mainly voting for it, and the rest of the state against it. This is just a testament to why it is crucial to READ and RESEARCH legislation before you vote on it; stopping puppy mills and making sure dogs are taken care of sounds like a great idea when it’s stated on the ballot, but when you research who is funding it and their motives, and how it can and possibly will affect other areas of business and agriculture in our state, it is less appealing. I dedicated an entire blog post to this Proposition, so scroll down if you want to read it.
http://www.fox2now.com/news/ktvi-prop-a-prop-b-ballot-passes-missouri-election-110310,0,6290419.story
However, as I said, I am excited to finally live in a RED state again! Missouri overwhelmingly supported Republican Roy Blunt in the senate race; he defeated Democrat Robin Carnahan 54% to 41%, winning in all but one county. For the race for the House, in all but three of Missouri’s nine districts, Republican’s won. Check out the map on Fox News’ website for all the minute details of each race and state data…it’s really fascinating: http://www.foxnews.com/interactive/politics/election-map-2010/#race=racesInPlay&pres=false&tab=senate&state=us-senate&profile=region
And debatably the greatest news of all, Nancy Pelosi no longer holds the gavel as the Speaker of the House! (PARTY! Haha...) Ohio Representative John Boehner will take her place. Here are a few words from Boehner's speech last night...I know my liberal friends will have fun ridiculing comments this, but I felt it rather inspiring, myself! :)
I also want to share Florida's future Senator Marco Rubio's victory speech with you...really puts things into perspective for this election!!
Lastly, I'd like to congratulate my cousin, Mike Fellows, on his victory as the Lee County Family Court Judge in Alabama! :)
http://vp.mgnetwork.net/traveler.swf?embed_referer=www.facebook.com&u=063848ba3858102ea6fd001ec92a4a0d&z=OAN&embed_player=1%2522
That's all for tonight... Though the results of this election will most definitely not solve all our problems, let's hope that Republicans take this "second chance" and stand firm in defense of our Constitution and the future of our Republic!
“...my concern is not whether God is on our side; my greatest concern is to be on God's side, for God is always right.” -Abraham Lincoln
You all know me; I tend to THINK a lot about things and voting was one of those things that I have THOUGHT a lot about. My brother and I walked to the polling place, just down the street from my house. I walked in the door and handed them my voter registration card, and received my ballot, with the names of candidates from FOUR political parties running for Senate. I voted (and I bet you can guess how) and as I turned in my ballot to the ballot box a flood of images and thoughts rushed through my head (you don’t have to remind me that I’m a nerd—I know!). Filling in the bubbles on that sheet of paper seems like such a tiny, insignificant thing that we take for granted and may even feel burdened by…until you stop and think of what it took to get to this point, and what it took and continues to take to secure and maintain the security of this right. I ramble on about the Founding Fathers and their sacrifices all time, but voting, to me, was directly taking part in something they fought a war, risked being hung for treason, and died to secure; the ability, and the responsibility of Americans to CHOOSE who they want to be represented by. It was riveting to think of the centuries of men and women that have come before me, those who risked everything fighting in war and in peace against forces who seek to destroy America’s free way of life, just to allow me to sit at that table in the basement of a church in a suburban Missouri town and choose my representatives. It was, in a word, an incredible experience!
And now for some of the finer points of Election 2010…the main event that was rather disappointing was Missouri’s Proposition B or the “Puppy Mill Initiative”… this passed 52% to 48%, with the metro areas mainly voting for it, and the rest of the state against it. This is just a testament to why it is crucial to READ and RESEARCH legislation before you vote on it; stopping puppy mills and making sure dogs are taken care of sounds like a great idea when it’s stated on the ballot, but when you research who is funding it and their motives, and how it can and possibly will affect other areas of business and agriculture in our state, it is less appealing. I dedicated an entire blog post to this Proposition, so scroll down if you want to read it.
http://www.fox2now.com/news/ktvi-prop-a-prop-b-ballot-passes-missouri-election-110310,0,6290419.story
However, as I said, I am excited to finally live in a RED state again! Missouri overwhelmingly supported Republican Roy Blunt in the senate race; he defeated Democrat Robin Carnahan 54% to 41%, winning in all but one county. For the race for the House, in all but three of Missouri’s nine districts, Republican’s won. Check out the map on Fox News’ website for all the minute details of each race and state data…it’s really fascinating: http://www.foxnews.com/interactive/politics/election-map-2010/#race=racesInPlay&pres=false&tab=senate&state=us-senate&profile=region
And debatably the greatest news of all, Nancy Pelosi no longer holds the gavel as the Speaker of the House! (PARTY! Haha...) Ohio Representative John Boehner will take her place. Here are a few words from Boehner's speech last night...I know my liberal friends will have fun ridiculing comments this, but I felt it rather inspiring, myself! :)
I also want to share Florida's future Senator Marco Rubio's victory speech with you...really puts things into perspective for this election!!
Lastly, I'd like to congratulate my cousin, Mike Fellows, on his victory as the Lee County Family Court Judge in Alabama! :)
http://vp.mgnetwork.net/traveler.swf?embed_referer=www.facebook.com&u=063848ba3858102ea6fd001ec92a4a0d&z=OAN&embed_player=1%2522
That's all for tonight... Though the results of this election will most definitely not solve all our problems, let's hope that Republicans take this "second chance" and stand firm in defense of our Constitution and the future of our Republic!
“...my concern is not whether God is on our side; my greatest concern is to be on God's side, for God is always right.” -Abraham Lincoln
Monday, November 1, 2010
Missouri's Prop B
Hey everyone, and especially my fellow Missourians… In my last blog post I promised a post dedicated to the discussion of Missouri’s Proposition B, an initiative to place restrictions and further regulations on the care of dogs in breeding facilities in Missouri. My state is a nationally acclaimed hot-spot for puppy mills (nothing to be proud of, really) and according to the US Department of Agriculture, Missouri contains 30% of the nation’s licensed dog breeders. I want to dedicate this blog to uncovering both sides of the argument over Yes or No on Prop B, explore some of the future ramifications of this law, and of course, provide my two cents.
The Initiative is rather long, so I’ll provide the link and a brief summary. http://www.sos.mo.gov/elections/2010petitions/2010-085.asp
This “Puppy Mill Cruelty Prevention Act” states, in general, “The purpose of this Act is to prohibit the cruel and inhumane treatment of dogs in puppy mills by requiring large-scale dog breeding operations to provide each dog under their care with basic food and water, adequate shelter from the elements, necessary veterinary care, adequate space to turn around and stretch his or her limbs and regular exercise.” This act also limits the number of dogs that any breeder can have to 50 dogs, regardless of the quality of the facility.
At first I didn’t think much of this when I first heard about it; I love dogs.My family has never been without a dog, and our current dog was rescued from the streets of Saint Louis, and we love him dearly. I think puppy mills are about the sickest and most horrible beginning of life for any dog. When I heard the limit on 50 dogs to any breeder, though, it got me thinking of how this amendment will affect breeding operations in this state.
Let me also remind you that Missouri already has legislation regulating the treatment of dogs in breeding operations and other facilities in the state, passed in 1992 called the Animal Care Facility Act. This act regulates breeders, pet stores, and other facilities and sends out inspectors (there are a total of 12 throughout the state) to make sure operations are meeting state standards in the areas of “feed, water, veterinary care, shelter, building maintenance, socialization, identification, and record keeping requirements” http://mda.mo.gov/animals/ACFA/) Read more on the Animal Care Facility Act of 1992 here... http://extension.missouri.edu/publications/DisplayPub.aspx?P=G9902
It is common knowledge that the MO Department of Agriculture does not have enough inspectors to meet the needs of the state. According to a News-Leader article, “Two audits, in 2004 and 2008, found inspectors weren’t reaching all the animal care facilities they were required to inspect.” They estimate they would need to hire about seven more inspectors to keep up with the demands of the state. There is no doubt that the employee resources of the US Dept. of Agriculture in Missouri are limited.
Now that I’ve given a little background info, I’ll get down to my thoughts. First of all, this act is more government intervention. These are regulations put on top of already in place regulations that are not being enforced. In addition, it attempts to stifle the growth of businesses that may be extremely competent in the care of their animals.
The Animal Care Facility Act is already in place with state standards to the care of animals for retail. This proposed Puppy Mill initiative is estimated to cost, within the first year alone, $654, 768 and each year after that, $521, 356. I’m not good with numbers, but it seems to me that several more state inspectors could easily be hired and paid a decent salary to enforce the CURRENT legislation.
I just don’t understand…why more interference in private life? Yes, puppy mills are horrible, horrible operations, but with the Animal Care Facility Act even more strictly enforced, I feel this would crack down on irresponsible breeders while not stifling business for the responsible ones. Also, why punish operations that sincerely care for the well-being of their animals but seek to expand business by limiting the number of dogs to 50? And further, what’s the next stage of this campaign for regulations on the handling of animals? I have to wonder, being as greatly involved with horses and the horse world as I am, what division of agriculture will be the next to be affected by regulations and limits such as these.
It is pertinent, also, to know where the funds for the campaign in favor of Prop B are coming from. So far, nearly $3 million has been raised to support this campaign. Out of 250 donors, merely one tenth of the funds have come from donors WITHIN THE STATE OF MISSOURI. The United States Human Society, based in Maryland, has contributed $1 million. I have a problem with so many out of state donors; it makes me question the reality of this act being in the STATE’S best interests, or in the best interests of the agendas of special interest groups.
There are irresponsible and sick people out to make a quick dime EVERYWHERE. And it’s disgusting that these people take advantage of animals the way they do in the form of puppy mills. But not EVERY dog breeder is running an overcrowded, cruel puppy mill. Just as with every other facet of life, there are responsible people out there who really care about what they do and the lives and well being of their animals. However, I feel it is the responsible who will be punished should this act pass. I know this post will earn me the title of “animal-hater!” but...believe what you want; I don’t think an animal hater owns three horses, a dog and two cats and thoroughly enjoys their company. :) Anyway...Before you vote “yes” on Missouri's Prop B… think of future ramifications of this act and if it’s intentions are REALLY what they appear to be.
Two informative articles from Springfield, Missouri's News-Leader....
http://www.news-leader.com/article/20101017/OPINIONS01/10170319/Proposition-B-well-intentioned-but-not-in-state-s-best-interests
http://www.news-leader.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=201010240384
Tomorrow is the day, people! I hope ALL of you will get out there and VOTE! I'll leave you with a great quote by General Douglas MacArthur...
"No Man is entitled to the blessings of freedom unless he be vigilant in its preservation."
The Initiative is rather long, so I’ll provide the link and a brief summary. http://www.sos.mo.gov/elections/2010petitions/2010-085.asp
This “Puppy Mill Cruelty Prevention Act” states, in general, “The purpose of this Act is to prohibit the cruel and inhumane treatment of dogs in puppy mills by requiring large-scale dog breeding operations to provide each dog under their care with basic food and water, adequate shelter from the elements, necessary veterinary care, adequate space to turn around and stretch his or her limbs and regular exercise.” This act also limits the number of dogs that any breeder can have to 50 dogs, regardless of the quality of the facility.
At first I didn’t think much of this when I first heard about it; I love dogs.My family has never been without a dog, and our current dog was rescued from the streets of Saint Louis, and we love him dearly. I think puppy mills are about the sickest and most horrible beginning of life for any dog. When I heard the limit on 50 dogs to any breeder, though, it got me thinking of how this amendment will affect breeding operations in this state.
Let me also remind you that Missouri already has legislation regulating the treatment of dogs in breeding operations and other facilities in the state, passed in 1992 called the Animal Care Facility Act. This act regulates breeders, pet stores, and other facilities and sends out inspectors (there are a total of 12 throughout the state) to make sure operations are meeting state standards in the areas of “feed, water, veterinary care, shelter, building maintenance, socialization, identification, and record keeping requirements” http://mda.mo.gov/animals/ACFA/) Read more on the Animal Care Facility Act of 1992 here... http://extension.missouri.edu/publications/DisplayPub.aspx?P=G9902
It is common knowledge that the MO Department of Agriculture does not have enough inspectors to meet the needs of the state. According to a News-Leader article, “Two audits, in 2004 and 2008, found inspectors weren’t reaching all the animal care facilities they were required to inspect.” They estimate they would need to hire about seven more inspectors to keep up with the demands of the state. There is no doubt that the employee resources of the US Dept. of Agriculture in Missouri are limited.
Now that I’ve given a little background info, I’ll get down to my thoughts. First of all, this act is more government intervention. These are regulations put on top of already in place regulations that are not being enforced. In addition, it attempts to stifle the growth of businesses that may be extremely competent in the care of their animals.
The Animal Care Facility Act is already in place with state standards to the care of animals for retail. This proposed Puppy Mill initiative is estimated to cost, within the first year alone, $654, 768 and each year after that, $521, 356. I’m not good with numbers, but it seems to me that several more state inspectors could easily be hired and paid a decent salary to enforce the CURRENT legislation.
I just don’t understand…why more interference in private life? Yes, puppy mills are horrible, horrible operations, but with the Animal Care Facility Act even more strictly enforced, I feel this would crack down on irresponsible breeders while not stifling business for the responsible ones. Also, why punish operations that sincerely care for the well-being of their animals but seek to expand business by limiting the number of dogs to 50? And further, what’s the next stage of this campaign for regulations on the handling of animals? I have to wonder, being as greatly involved with horses and the horse world as I am, what division of agriculture will be the next to be affected by regulations and limits such as these.
It is pertinent, also, to know where the funds for the campaign in favor of Prop B are coming from. So far, nearly $3 million has been raised to support this campaign. Out of 250 donors, merely one tenth of the funds have come from donors WITHIN THE STATE OF MISSOURI. The United States Human Society, based in Maryland, has contributed $1 million. I have a problem with so many out of state donors; it makes me question the reality of this act being in the STATE’S best interests, or in the best interests of the agendas of special interest groups.
There are irresponsible and sick people out to make a quick dime EVERYWHERE. And it’s disgusting that these people take advantage of animals the way they do in the form of puppy mills. But not EVERY dog breeder is running an overcrowded, cruel puppy mill. Just as with every other facet of life, there are responsible people out there who really care about what they do and the lives and well being of their animals. However, I feel it is the responsible who will be punished should this act pass. I know this post will earn me the title of “animal-hater!” but...believe what you want; I don’t think an animal hater owns three horses, a dog and two cats and thoroughly enjoys their company. :) Anyway...Before you vote “yes” on Missouri's Prop B… think of future ramifications of this act and if it’s intentions are REALLY what they appear to be.
Two informative articles from Springfield, Missouri's News-Leader....
http://www.news-leader.com/article/20101017/OPINIONS01/10170319/Proposition-B-well-intentioned-but-not-in-state-s-best-interests
http://www.news-leader.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=201010240384
Tomorrow is the day, people! I hope ALL of you will get out there and VOTE! I'll leave you with a great quote by General Douglas MacArthur...
"No Man is entitled to the blessings of freedom unless he be vigilant in its preservation."
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