Conservatism With Heart

2012 Iowa Caucuses!

2012-01-05T11:59:00.001-06:00

I have been out of the loop for awhile. Yet, between starting on Twitter and the primaries I have gotten re-engaged.

I was discouraged for awhile to see Newt as the supposed "conservative" alternative to Romney. The 3 people being talked about were Romney, Newt and Ron Paul which made for a perfect nightmare for me.

As I've said, I like some things about Newt but you never know when he's going to throw one of our own under the bus, or join the Democrats on something. Rush called it imploding, which I thought was a perfect description. And I think thats exactly what Newt is doing right now by throwing a temper tantrum over Romney's attacks.

I was always amazed at how well George W did at dealing with personal attacks. Newt is the perfect example of someone who doesn't deal well. And if he can't handle this, then he's definitely not presidential material.

So, after being bummed about all of this, I was pretty excited to finally see a "real conservative" alternative to Romney, in Santorum, doing well. I don't know how long it will last, but I will happy while he does.

Michelle Bachmann decided to get out, since she came in 6th place. I loved her speech, and it made me proud to be a Republican woman.

Sarah Palin hasn't been overly kind to her and that has disappointed me. The other weird thing is that she defends the Ron Paul supporters, as did a pollster today. They are urging us as average Republicans that we need to listen to them.

I have several problems with this:
1) Ron Paul supporters hate Sarah Palin, so I don't know why she's defending them.
2) As for the pollster saying we need to listen to the Ron Paul people, a huge majority of the Ron Paulites defect to the Democrat party once Ron Paul doesn't get the nomination. So I don't see the point.
3) Read this article, and then tell me Palin, pollster and anybody else that I'm supposed to listen to the Paul supporters!!

Happy Thanksgiving 2011!!

2011-11-24T01:29:00.002-06:00

Previously:
Happy Thanksgiving 2010!
Happy Thanksgiving 2009!

The Africa Series!--Part 2--Rwanda!

2011-11-23T00:17:00.002-06:00

Hotel Rwanda--Based on the true story during the Rwanda Genocide

After my summer trip to Senegal, I decided that my son and I would do a Unit Study on Africa this year. I wanted to learn about as many African countries as we could, but I especially wanted to learn about 3 countries in particular: Sudan, Darfur has been a focus of mine, Rwanda because of the genocide in 1994 and Somalia because of Black Hawk Down.

After learning of the genocide in 1994, I also learned that like most African countries, Rwanda has a lot of orphans and street kids. Operation World is a book that has statistics on every single country in the world and how you can pray for them.(I use it all the time, and highly recommend it!) According to OW, Rwanda has up to 900,000 orphans.

It is for this reason, that I picked a 12 year old girl named Beatha from Rwanda to sponsor. The group I went with, Food for the Hungry, had several countries in Africa, but I felt led to Rwanda. My kids are helping with their money as well in this sponsorship. So, it has become a family project.

What made me even prouder, was when my 17 year old daughter went to a Christian concert and decided to sponsor a little boy with AIDS from Rwanda all by herself. She is sponsoring him through Compassion.

I am seriously considering and praying about going back to Africa this coming summer. I am looking at a possible Tanzania trip, and I also found a trip to orphanages in Ethiopia and Rwanda that looks awesome, but praying for God to lead me where He wants me to go.

Previously:
The Africa Series!--Part 1--Senegal ABC's!

The Africa Series!--Part 1--Senegal ABC's!

2011-11-22T01:19:00.000-06:00

My passion for Africa started awhile ago, and ever since my trip to Senegal, it has exploded. I am in love with all things Africa.

God got a hold of my heart through politics/current events and through home schooling my son. We are now doing a Unit Study on Africa and making our way through each country. I will be posting about that in this series.

My first post is about my trip to Senegal. I meant to post something right away, but life was crazy and I never got around to it. Below is something I came up with for my church presentation and a letter I sent out. I had to change it a little for safety precautions.

Senegal ABC’s
A-African jewelry-I was given and bought to bring home.
B—Babies I got to love on
C—Charms-many villagers still think they need these to protect them from evil spirits.
D—Dakota, who was one of my teammates on the trip.
E—Ethiopia-One of the men on our team was born in Ethiopia, which gave him a special bond with the people we met.
F—French is spoken by some villagers but most spoke tribal languages.
G—Goats, chickens and other animals roamed freely through the villages, fields and roads.
H—Hands—they eat with the right hand only, the left hand is used for other things.
I—Islam—A lot of the people believe in folk Islam which is a mix of Islam and ATR (African Traditional Religion).
J—Joni was the other woman on our team.
K—Kenya, Sudan and Tanzania were the African countries where my Pastor, Dr. Hadaway had gotten his experience in African Missions.
L—Late—I am notorious for having “issues” with time. So, I adapted to “Africa time” quite well.
M—Mosque—I went with Dr. Hadaway to the mosque one day and was swiftly kicked out.
N—No Problem!—Our driver’s favorite phrase in English!
O—Orphans—the street kids broke my heart and made me want to sweep them all up and start my own orphanage.
P—Pop—I am a Coca-Cola addict, so I was shocked/happy to see that most places had Coke available for pretty cheap.
Q—Quickly, left to go to historical Goree Island. It was one of the main hubs where slaves were picked up and taken in the 1800’s.
R—Rhinos on the safari!
S—Safari that we got to go on!
T—Theater—so many of the experiences would remind me of movies/tv—Roots, Locked up Abroad, The Amazing Race.
U—Unbelievable—how stressful shopping was because of how they descended on you like vultures to pressure you into buying things.
V—Van got stuck in the mud numerous times. We were there in the rainy season.
W—Wife—Dr. Hadaway kept joking that I would become someone’s 3rd wife. I thought this was purely comic humor, but we found out it was all too real for the women who live there.
X—X-rated—I saw lots of naked people in the villages.
Y—Yummy—I wasn’t real excited about the tongue and the liver we prepared in the village, but the 1st week we ate at the retreat and that was great food.
Z—Zebras we saw at the Safari.

Previously:
Laura Bush Honored for her Work in Africa to Beat Malaria!
I am Going to Senegal, West Africa!

Laura Bush Honored for her Work in Africa to Beat Malaria!

2011-11-07T12:34:00.000-06:00

Amazingly, George W. Bush did more for Africa while he was president, than any other U.S. president to date, and yet one would never know it. In 2006, he held a White House Malaria Summit and announced the President’s Malaria Initiative (PMI), which has led efforts in 17 countries in sub-Saharan Africa to end malaria deaths. I found this description by Tim Goeglein of Bush particularly telling:

In my present role with Focus on the Family, I had to be up in South Africa earlier this year. Everywhere I went, whether for business meetings or ministry meetings, I was amazed at how highly regarded George W. Bush is in Africa. That’s a direct result of his compassionate conservatism and his historic work battling AIDS and malaria there. The President’s PEPFAR initiative against AIDS, and his anti-malarial program, stand among his most significant foreign policy achievements, and yet they’re little known or appreciated now, at least in the United States. I hope they will be recognized over time.

The great thing about this "Africa Story" is that it became a family affair. Laura Bush and the Bush daughters also took it on as a cause while in the White House, and the whole family continues to help the people of Africa.

Laura Bush was honored last night for her efforts to beat malaria. I have fallen in love with Africa since my missions trip this summer, so I find the Bush family's efforts very inspirational. Kudos to Laura Bush!

Related Links:
--Analysis: How George W Bush became an African hero
--First Lady Laura Bush Discusses Her Family’s Dedication to Ending Malaria
--President's Malaria Initiative
--Malaria No More

No Higher Honor!--Condi Rice

2011-11-02T01:50:00.000-05:00

Condoleeza Rice has now come out with her 2nd book. The 1st book was about her family, and I got an autographed copy when she came to Kansas City. It was entitled, Extraordinary, Ordinary People.

Rice's latest book is entitled, No Higher Honor and it is about her 8 years in the White House. She shares a lot in her interview with Hannity in the above videos.

Previously:
Lunch with Condoleeza Rice!

The Pacific!--Part 1

2011-10-30T02:38:00.000-05:00

A little boy asked me, he said, "Mr. Tatum," he said, "are you a hero of Iwo Jima?" I said, "No, son, I'm only a survivor, we buried all the heroes."--Chuck Tatum

Awhile ago, I watched the mini-series Band of Brothers, which was based on a book written about the fighting in Europe during World War II. A companion mini-series was done entitled The Pacific, which I just finished watching. It was based on stories of men who fought in the Pacific. There is an official website dedicated to the real marines whose lives were portrayed in the series.

Several men wrote books on their experiences, Robert Leckie wrote, Helmet for My Pillow. Eugene Sledge wrote With the Old Breed: At Peleliu and Okinawa. Chuck Tatum wrote many books, one of them being about John Basilone, and one about Iwo Jima entitled, Red Blood Black Sand.

It was amazing, and so well done. It is not for the faint of heart, and not for children. Yet, it gives you, maybe, just a glimpse of the hell that the World War II veterans went through on our behalf. I don't know how we ever thank them enough for what they did. And, to think that when they came back, they were just expected to resume their life in society.

The above video is of one of the real life veterans who was portrayed in the movie. His video touched me the most. I liked a lot about the series, so I will be posting more.

Facebook pages:
Chuck Tatum
R.V. Burgin
Sidney Phillips

Paul Ryan: Saving the American Idea!

2011-10-27T12:53:00.000-05:00

This is the man I wish was running for President. Paul Ryan is speaking to the Heritage Foundation last night, on October 26th. No one says it better than him!!

10th Anniversary of 9/11--Part 3

2011-09-12T01:16:00.003-05:00

A powerful video done by Media Research Center. I found it at NewsBusters. All the more moving when you see our beloved Tony Snow, who is no longer with us.

Rumsfeld weighs in on the attacks on the Pentagon!

The First Annual Jeremy Katzenberger Memorial Triathlon was held yesterday at Weatherby Lake in honor of Jeremy. I did a post on him awhile back. He was killed in action in Afghanistan on June 14 of this year, fighting for our freedom. A friend of mine participated in it, and blogged about it.

Previously:
10th Anniversary of 9/11--Part 2
10th Anniversary of 9/11!

10th Anniversary of 9/11--Part 2

2011-09-10T16:10:00.001-05:00

Mike's America...Ten Years Since 9/11: We Will Not Forget the Attacks and the Sacrifice of Those Who Keep Us Safe Today

Gateway Pundit...George W. Bush at Flight 93 Memorial: “One of the Lessons of 9-11 Is That Evil Is Real and So Is Courage” (Video)

Bush quotes:

On 9-11, “The most lives lost on American soil on a single day since the Battle of Antietam.”

“One of the lessons of 9-11 is that evil is real and so is courage.”

“At the moment American democracy was under attack our citizens defied their captors by holding a vote. The choice they made would cost them their lives. And they knew it. Many passengers called their loved ones to say good-bye. Then hung up to perform their final act.”

“The Flight 93 heroes led the first counter attack in the WAR ON TERROR.”

“The temptation of isolation is deadly wrong.”

Previously:
10th Anniversary of 9/11!

10th Anniversary of 9/11!

2011-09-10T02:22:00.004-05:00

I've been watching lots of shows commemorating the 10th anniversary of September 11th. National Geographic Channel has especially done a phenomenal job. Below are just some of the programs they have aired, and it looks like they will re-air all of them on September 11th:

--Giuliani's 9/11
--George W. Bush: The 9/11 Interview
--9/11: Where Were You?
--Witness DC 9/11
--Inside 9/11-Zero Hour
--Inside 9/11-War on America
--Inside 9/11-The War Continues
--Inside Al Qaeda

Rich Lowry's A Decade of Heroes:

When there’s a danger — and especially when there’s a war — there’s no substitute for the courage that has been the stuff of legend and of national honors down through the centuries. The brute fact is that most of us aren’t capable of it — for us courage is, in Miller’s words, “a glorious and admonishing phantom.” We can only stand in uncomprehending awe of the acts of the truly courageous.

Why did Jay Jonas and his unit in the North Tower of the World Trade Center, evacuating as it was on the verge of collapse, stop to carry out a distressed woman even though it slowed their escape? Why did a band of passengers on Flight 93 storm the cockpit of their hijacked plane? Why did Jason Dunham, Ross McGinnis, and Michael Monsoor — all Medal of Honor winners from the Iraq War — throw themselves on grenades to save their comrades?

Ask a firefighter such a question and he’s liable to answer, “That’s just what we do.” What we do, in turn, is express our astonishment and gratitude.

Previously:
2010--September 11th --May We Never Forget!!
2009--Remembering 9/11!!
2008--September 11th--May We Never Forget!!
2007--September 11th--My Generation's Pearl Harbor
2006--9/11 Tribute To Christina De Laura
2005--Remembering September 11th

Grading the GOP Debate on MSNBC!

2011-09-08T02:04:00.000-05:00

Thoughts about the debate:

--I thought a MSNBC debate might be more tolerable without Chris Matthews, but Brian Williams proved to be just as despicable. I really couldn't believe how condescending, biased, manipulative and slanted some of Williams' questions were. I think the one that took my breath away was:
Governor Perry a question about Texas. Your state has executed 234 death row inmates more than any other governor in modern times. Have you struggled to sleep at night?
--What kind of question is that? I would've said, I sleep fine knowing that rapists, child molesters and murderers aren't on the streets anymore to hurt any other innocent people. How would it go over if a Fox News moderator asked a Democrat candidate how he sleeps at night knowing that innocent babies are being murdered every day by partial birth abortion??

--Also, the question he asked Rick Santorum about the poor. The question was dripping with condescension implying that Republicans don't care about the poor. Just because Republicans don't think government is the answer to caring about the poor doesn't mean we don't actually care about the poor. Although, Santorum gave a fairly good answer.

Grading the Candidates

Rick Perry--A
My grading is going to be more than just about their performance last night. Its also going to be about what I think of them in general. I have to say that I was very excited to see Perry get into this race. He is the first person that I can actually see a lot of people rallying around, including myself.

I thought he did fairly well in this debate. Although, I agree with Gateway Pundit in that MSNBC decided it was attack Perry night.

I loved his response to the 1st biased question which is in the above video, and I loved his JFK quote and his comment about keynesian economics not working.

Michelle Bachmann--A-
The more I see of Michelle, the more I like her. I loved what she had to say about energy:

If the Federal Government would pull back on all of their regulatory restrictions on American energy production:
--1.2 million jobs would be created
--50% more in U.S. American Energy
--800 more billion in revenue

She also reminded everyone that gas was $1.79 a gallon when Obama took office. Where are the bumper stickers reminding everyone of that?? She also brought up that Obamacare is killing jobs too and if we don't repeal Obamacare in 2012, it will be with us forever.

Mitt Romney--B
I'm not a huge Romney fan, especially if I have other options. But he impressed me in the debate. I liked some of his responses and I liked his line of us needing "real jobs" not "green jobs".

Cain--B
This guy looks and sounds good, but unfortunately you have to have SOME government experience to win the presidency. I did like his line, "If 10% is good enough for God, 9% should be good enough for government.

Rick Santorum--B-
I love Santorum, but I can't believe he thinks he has a chance. I did like his Libya answer.

Newt Gingrich--C-
Newt has ticked me off one too many times. I love the guy when he is running a conservative think tank and when he is writing history books. But every other time he talks he sticks his foot in his mouth. He literally declared he was running for president one day, and throwing my beloved Paul Ryan under the bus the next. I can't believe he thinks he has a shot in hell.

Everyone enjoyed his line of not pitting Republicans against each other, too bad he couldn't remember that when he was throwing President Bush under the bus.

Jon Huntsman--C-
Who is this guy? I had to google him to find out. He is declared a RINO by some, was picked by Obama to be an ambassador to China. He believes in global warming and evolution, which makes him pro-science according to liberals and the media. As you know, the rest of us conservatives are anti-science. Unbelievable!!!

Ron Paul--F
Seriously??

President George W. Bush's 9/11 Interview!

2011-08-25T10:43:00.002-05:00

"George W. Bush: The 9/11 Interview" premieres this Sunday, August 28th, at 9:00 PM Central on the National Geographic Channel. Tune in to see the interview and never-before-seen photos and videos from the George W. Bush Presidential Library. The above video is a sneak peek of President Bush's personal account of his experience on September 11th, 2001.

More details at National Geographic!

--George W. Bush's facebook page

--Freedom Alliance is promoting it as well

My Favorite Time with God Stuff!

2011-07-03T01:29:00.059-05:00

Living Your Life as a Beautiful Offering by Angela Thomas is the Bible Study that I'm doing this summer. It is a Bible study on the Beautitudes.

My favorite Bible studies are by Beth Moore, of course. The above book, Praying God's Word, is my favorite book by her.

I have become a HUGE Charles Spurgeon fan. While I was reading Beth Moore, she kept quoting Charles Spurgeon. I really liked his quotes, so I sought out books written by him. Since then, I can't get enough.

Jeremy Camp is by far my favorite Christian singer and enables me to worship in a way that no one else can. The above song, This Man, somehow never gets old for me.

Remembering Jeremy: A True American Hero!!

2011-06-28T00:28:00.000-05:00

“Jeremy was the epitome of a Ranger squad leader; he is a hero to our Nation, the Army and his family.”--Col. Michael E. Kurilla, commander, 75th Ranger Regt

My heart is heavy today as I go to the funeral of an Army Ranger!

We went to church with a wonderful family that had 4 sons. My husband and I worked with their boys in the youth group, and I went with their youngest, Jeremy, on a missions trip to Monterrey, Mexico.

Three out of their four sons decided to join the military. I remember talking to Jeremy not long before he left to join the Rangers. Tragically, on June 14th, Jeremy was killed in action.

Special Operations Press Release:

FORT BRAGG, NC – A U.S. Army Ranger was killed in action on June 14 during combat operations in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. Staff Sgt. Jeremy Andrew Katzenberger was assigned to Company B, 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, at Hunter Army Airfield, Ga.

He was killed by direct fire from enemy forces during a heavy firefight while conducting combat operations in Paktika Province.

A native of Weatherby Lake, Mo., Katzenberger enlisted in the U.S. Army in October 2004. For more than six years, Katzenberger served as a rifleman, automatic rifleman, team leader and Ranger squad leader in 1st Bn., 75th Ranger Regt.
The 75th Ranger Regt. has been continuously deployed to Afghanistan since October 2001.

“Staff Sgt. Katzenberger was a phenomenal Ranger who died while leading his men in an assault against our enemies. He died while protecting our Nation and we will not forget his sacrifice,” said Col. Michael Foster, commander, 1st Bn., 75th Ranger Regt. “He was universally respected by every member of this command and was a devoted, loving husband and proud father. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Katzenberger family.”

Katzenberger previously served on four deployments to Iraq and this was his fourth deployment to Afghanistan.

“I wish the American people could truly understand the dedication and sacrifice that Staff Sgt. Jeremy Katzenberger made for his country. Since early 2005, Jeremy has either been in combat or training for combat. This was his eighth combat deployment,” said Col. Michael E. Kurilla, commander, 75th Ranger Regt. “Jeremy was the epitome of a Ranger squad leader; he is a hero to our Nation, the Army and his family.”

Katzenberger is survived by his wife Colleen A. (Montgomery) Katzenberger, son Everett James both of Richmond Hill, Ga., and his parents Robert and Peggy Katzenberger of Weatherby Lake, Mo.

...Shades of Gray's pictures of Jeremy's processional

...Gov. Nixon orders flags to half-staff in honor of fallen soldier

My thoughts and prayers have been with the Katzenberger family ever since I learned of his death. May God comfort them during this time of tragic loss!

Sites in honor of Jeremy:
Remembering Jeremy
Remembering SSG Jeremy Katzenberger

2012 GOP Presidential Race!

2011-06-27T01:15:00.001-05:00

I have made no secret of the fact that I am underwhelmed by the slate of candidates for President on the GOP side. The only 3 people that I could excited about aren't in the running, at least not yet!

Ann Coulter expresses my sentiments exactly on her enthusiasm for Governor Chris Christie in the above video. My other top picks are Sarah Palin and Paul Ryan.

Although, Michele Bachmann has possibilities!

...in fact, Bachmann will be sharing the Iowa spotlight with Palin, and they both may trump Obama's visit there!

Previously:
Paul Ryan vs. Obama!
Republican 12 of 2012!

A Review of A Place of Yes!

2011-06-25T01:03:00.000-05:00

The Myth of Normal!
There is no normal. People and families are who they are, and each one is unique. Your childhood was what it was, and your life now can be whatever you want it to be. Don't seek out normal. Seek out functional. Seek out successful. Seek out happy. To do that, you have to find what works for you, never what you think is supposed to work for people in general.

Don't look to others to show you what you are supposed to be. There are no people "in general." It doesn't matter what anybody else thinks of your life. All that matters is what you think of it, and what you decide to make of it.--Bethenny Frankel

The latest book I finished reading was A Place of Yes, by reality star, Bethenny Frankel. The above quote was my favorite from the book, although I highlighted a big portion of it. While, I would've never imagined reading a book by one of the Real Housewives, Frankel is my favorite. She is very real and genuine. She is open, honest and inspirational in a way that others can't be.

I found her personal story compelling and her words of advice motivating. Her Act on it chapter was one of the reasons that I decided to step out in faith and go to Africa! I highly recommend it!

My 2011 Book List!

2011-06-24T00:17:00.003-05:00

As you can tell from the lists, I indulged in my criminal justice side at the beginning of the year. Ann Rule is a phenomenal criminal justice writer.

I am now trying to finish Bush's memoir and I have a zillion other books I'd like to get too, as always.

Here are the books that I have read so far:

1) 365 Ways to Boost Your Metabolism--Rachel Laferriere
2) September 11, 2001--Wilborn Hampton
3) Smoke, Mirrors, and Murder--Ann Rule
4) Praying Successfully--Charles Spurgeon
5) Every Breath You Take--Ann Rule
6) The Pastor's Wife--Diane Fanning
7) Senegal--Elizabeth Berg
8) Senegal--Tanya Mulroy
9) Day by Day with C.H. Spurgeon--Al Bryant
10) A Place of Yes--Bethenny Frankel

Here are the books on CD that I've listened too:

1) Green River, Running Red--Ann Rule
2) Kiss Me, Kill Me--Ann Rule
3) The Stranger Beside Me--Ann Rule
4) Too Late to Say Goodbye--Ann Rule
5) Epic--John Eldredge
6) Men in Black--Mark Levin
7) Flags of our Fathers--James Bradley

I am Going to Senegal, West Africa!

2011-06-23T23:05:00.000-05:00

I have been horrible about neglecting my blog lately. I have tons of stuff I want to post, its just been hard to find the time. I am hoping I can find a balance between work, writing and everything else and still find a little time to blog.

I am very excited about the subject of this post. For about a year or so, I have felt this nudge from God about going to Africa on a short-term missions trip. I have been studying the countries with my son in school and praying for different countries via Samaritan's Purse's Prayer Points.

An opportunity arose recently for me to go, and the more I checked into it, the more it seemed right up my alley. I prayed about it and talked to my family and stepped out in faith. God has been amazing. I found out about the trip a little late, so I needed to raise $2,100 in a little over a week. I knew that if God wanted me to go, He would provide. And that He did. He waited up until a couple days before, but He provided. The whole amount was $3,500 and I am almost there. Amazing!!

I have been reading and learning a lot about Senegal. Its definitely going to take me out of my comfort zone. I will be in the "bush" a big part of the time. And its a Muslim country, so I will have to wear covered attire.

Yet, I am excited about what an opportunity God has provided. Jeremy Camp's song, Walk by Faith is my theme song for the trip and the summer. Stay tuned for more posts!!

Books:
Senegal--Tanya Mulroy
Senegal--Elizabeth Berg

Memorial Day 2011!

2011-05-30T22:40:00.001-05:00

I'm in the middle of watching the mini-series, Band of Brothers by Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg. It is the story of Easy Company of the US Army 101st Airborne division and their mission in WWII Europe from Operation Overlord through V-J Day.

I was also excited when I saw that Ridley Scott was making a movie on Gettysburg to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Civil War. It aired today and I am looking forward to watching it. Scott did an incredible job on Black Hawk Down and he also works on The Good Wife which is one of my favorite shows right now.

A friend recently compiled a list of all the war movies he had seen into different categories. I am working on my list too, which I will post here in the near future. I often think that after being an historian on the Presidents, I would like to be a war historian as well.

These movies are great ways to remember the great men and women who have sacrificed so much so that we could be free!!

Lift Me Up!

2011-05-15T00:03:00.000-05:00

Lift Me Up
sung by The Afters

Chorus:
You lift me up when I am weak
Your arms wrap around me
Your love catches me so I’m letting go
You lift me up when I can’t see
Your heart is all that I need
Your love carries me so I’m letting go

You lift me up with your love
You lift me up with your love
You lift me up with your love
You lift me up

For the rest of the lyrics, go here!

2011 Clay County Republican Lincoln Days!

2011-05-09T23:57:00.004-05:00

Celebrating 2010 While Preparing for 2012!

Eastern Commissioner Katee Porter was emcee for a full house at Clay County's 2011 Lincoln Days this past Friday night.

Government jobs don't pay the bill, they are the bill.--U.S. Senator Roy Blunt

U.S. Senator Roy Blunt was the main speaker of the night. He wanted to thank everyone for their hard work in getting him elected. He said the election had gotten people's attention and people became engaged on the issues, especially cap and trade and health care.

Porter then presented him with 2 baseballs signed by the Royals.

State Senator Luann Ridgeway talked about the Right to Work bill and how it is now a priority in the Senate. She talked about how states that aren't right to work, are losing businesses.

State Rep Ryan Silvey attended and spoke for the first time at Lincoln Days. He said that Jefferson City is now paying attention to Clay County. "If you want something done in Jefferson City, you have to go through Clay County."

State Senator Bill Stouffer is running for Secretary of State. He started his speech off by saying that it was time for Robin to go home and feed her cows. He said she has turned the office into a political office.

He mentioned Senate bill 3, photo ids for voting. There was a lot of cheering, it is ridiculous that this isn't passed yet. According to Robin, there is no fraud in Missouri. Apparently, she hasn't been paying attention.

He also said all amendments, bills, etc... would have clear, straight language. That also got a lot of cheering. He concluded by asking for prayers, support and votes! I have been impressed by Stouffer in the past and think he is going to make a great candidate for Secretary of State.

State Rep Jerry Nolte talked about some of their accomplishments including getting rid of some taxes.

He also got a standing ovation when he announced that he was going to be working to retire Emmanuel Cleaver. He will be running for the 5th district U.S. Congressional seat. I have gotten to know Nolte over the years and can't think of a better man for the job.

State Rep Myron Neth talked about what it was like being in the freshman class of Republicans.

Josh Hurlbert gave the report from Sam Graves' office. Graves also wanted to thank everyone for their hard work during the last election. A March 2009 Time Magazine article was entitled, "Is the Party Over?" referring to the Republican Party after Obama's election in 2008. Yet, look what the elections brought in 2010. The Republican Party is far from over.

Author Jack Cashill commented on how Jesse James' town was now Republican. He also talked about his book, Deconstructing Obama.

Vicky Weishar, President of Clay County's Federated Republican Women won Clay County Woman of the Year and Dr. John Hagan won Clay County Man of the year. Dr. Hagan said, "No one hates Obamacare more than a physician."

Previously:
2010 Clay County Republican Lincoln Days!
2009 Clay County Republican Lincoln Days!
2008 Clay County Republican Lincoln Days!
2007 Clay County Republican Lincoln Days!

My Visit to the Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum!

2011-05-06T14:09:00.000-05:00

My Mom was in town this week, so her and I and a friend visited the Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum in Atchison, Kansas. My Mom and I watched the movie Amelia the night before we went. Louise Foudray, Caretaker of the Museum had this to say about the movie:

Considering the difficulty in making a movie about Amelia Earhart, I think it was nicely done as far as it went. It showed her determination to defy convention and the emotion of the importance and danger of her flights. The affair with Eugene Vidal is in question. It did not show her depth of character, her skills and ability to the extent which she deserves.

A lot of aspects of her life, her family influence, her intelligence, her business skills, her teaching ability were not shown.

It did introduce us to a beautiful person of whom we need to know more.

The museum was wonderful and we were able to get a lot of questions answered by the woman who was there. She especially pointed out that there really was no evidence of the affair with Eugene Vidal.

Of course, as always, I have a weakness for museum gift shops. So I bought the above book and other items.

60th Annual National Day of Prayer 2011!!

2011-05-05T03:17:00.000-05:00

I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust!--Psalm 91:2

...National Day Of Prayer website

President James Madison's Proclamation of Humiliation and Prayer - 1812:

Whereas the Congress of the United States, by a joint resolution of the two Houses, have signified a request, that a day may be recommended, to be observed by the People of the United States, with religious solemnity, as a day of pubic Humiliation, and Prayer; and whereas such a recommendation will enable the several religious denominations and societies so disposed, to offer, at one and the same time, their common vows and adorations to Almighty God, on the solemn occasion produced by the war, in which he has been pleased to permit the injustice of a foreign power to involve these United States;

I do therefore recommend the third Thursday in August next, as a convenient day to be set apart for the devout purposes of rendering to the Sovereign of the Universe and the Benefactor of mankind, the public homage due to his holy attributes; of acknowledging the transgressions which might justly provoke the manifestations of His divine displeasures; of seeking His merciful forgiveness, His assistance in the great duties of repentance and amendment; and especially of offering fervent supplications, that in the present season of calamity and war, He would take the American People under his peculiar care and protection; that he would guide their public councils, animate their patriotism, and bestow His blessing on their arms; that He would inspire all nations with a love of justice and of concord, and with a reverence for the unerring precept of our holy religion, to do to others as they would require others to do to them; and finally, that , turning the hearts of our enemies from the violence and injustice which sway their councils against us, He would hasten a restoration of the blessings of Peace.

Given at Washington the 9th day of July, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twelve.

James Madison.

Gas Price Hypocrisy!

2011-05-04T02:28:00.000-05:00

The hypocrisy on gas prices is astounding, but Republicans should expect nothing less! The Heritage Foundation exposes 6 of Obama's Gas Price Myths!

More on Osama Bin Laden...

2011-05-03T15:14:00.000-05:00

The man who once called the United States “a paper tiger” and issued a fatwa to “kill all Americans” believed that our nation would not strike back if provoked. Today that man, responsible for the deaths of 3,000 Americans on September 11th, Osama bin Laden, is dead. It is an achievement of which our country can be proud.

Credit belongs to the courageous special operators who executed the mission. As America awoke to celebration this morning, these professionals quietly went about their work, for they know as well as any that this fight is not over.

Recognition should also go to the intelligence professionals who have worked tirelessly over the past decade to collect information on al Qaeda. Initial reports indicate that intelligence efforts at Guantanamo Bay may have played an essential role in this success.

All of this was made possible by the relentless, sustained pressure on al Qaeda that the Bush administration initiated after 9/11 and that the Obama administration has wisely chosen to continue.

This is an important victory in the fight against Islamist terrorism, but the struggle will go on. We must not have any illusions that it ends today or that America can afford to let down its guard tomorrow.--Donald Rumsfeld

Rudy Giuliani weighs in with his thoughts while at Ground Zero, an excerpt is below:

"This is a very significant victory," Giuliani said as he stood outside St. Paul's Chapel across the street from where the Twin Towers once stood. "I feel a deep sense of relief and satisfaction."

Meanwhile, supporters gather outside Bush's home to leave patriotic symbols and a sign that said, "President Obama forgot to say, Thank you President Bush."

Osama Bin Laden Killed by U.S. Special Forces!

2011-05-02T00:42:00.007-05:00

Earlier this evening, President Obama called to inform me that American forces killed Osama bin Laden, the leader of the al Qaeda network that attacked America on September 11, 2001. I congratulated him and the men and women of our military and intelligence communities who devoted their lives to this mission. They have our everlasting gratitude. This momentous achievement marks a victory for America, for people who seek peace around the world, and for all those who lost loved ones on September 11, 2001. The fight against terror goes on, but tonight America has sent an unmistakable message: No matter how long it takes, justice will be done.--President George W. Bush

The demise of Osama Bin Laden is a tremendous victory for the American
people. Justice has been done and we are all indebted to the American
military and intelligence community for their skill and dedication. Nothing can bring back Bin Laden's innocent victims, but perhaps this can help salve the wounds of their loved ones.

I am overwhelmed with pride in America and in those who protect us.
We are all united tonight in gratitude and love for our country.

God Bless America.--Condi Rice

It was an amazing night in history to witness, the death of Osama Bin Laden by the hands of U.S. Special Forces.

A friend of mine was on an airplane when she heard the news and tweeted this, "9/11 widow on my flight. In tears. Comforted by entire cabin. Life altering event to see."

Americans tonight are united in celebration and gratitude. God bless all the brave men and women in our military and our intelligence services who contributed to carrying out the successful mission to bring bin Laden to justice and who laid the groundwork over the years to make this victory possible. It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of these brave Americans who relentlessly hunted down our enemy.

This is a victory for the American people, for the victims who were heartlessly murdered on September 11 and in Al Qaeda’s other numerous attacks, and for all the peace-loving people of the world.

May God bless our troops and our intelligence services, and God bless America!
- Sarah Palin

Michelle Malkin reminds us of all the innocent men, women and children that Osama was responsible for killing.

Congressman Paul Ryan's statement on the death of Bin Laden!

Paul Ryan Gets a Standing Ovation at a Townhall Meeting!!

2011-05-01T14:49:00.001-05:00

I give you an A for the cajones, for stepping up and saying hey, somebody has got to show leadership. And what I like about you, is that a person needs to lead, follow or get the hell out of the way, and you've chosen to lead!!--a man at a town hall meeting

Paul Ryan has been doing town halls all across the state of Wisconsin. He has gained national attention over the past 2 weeks as he has done 19 sessions in all. He has received some heat, but also praise for showing leadership on the issue. He received a standing ovation at a town hall in a suburb of Milwaukee.

That Ryan/Rubio ticket is looking better and better!!

Previously:
--Paul Ryan vs. Obama!
--Paul Ryan on the GOP's Budget Blan!
--I'm a fan of Congressman Paul Ryan!!
--Congressman Paul Ryan's Response to President Obama's speech
--I love Paul Ryan!!
--I Heart Paul McRyan!!

Andrew Breitbart and Sarah Palin in Wisconsin!

2011-04-18T01:01:00.000-05:00

Via Gateway Pundit:

Via Gateway Pundit:

I love anyone who has a fire in his belly, and Breitbart definitely had that in spades. Its about time someone stands up to these thugs! Someone mentioned that perhaps Breitbart would make a great press secretary for Palin. I couldn't agree more!

Bringing Ashley Home!

2011-04-17T01:05:00.000-05:00

I watched a movie on Lifetime last night entitled, Bringing Ashley Home! It was based on the true life story of Libba Phillips. Libba searched for her sister Ashley who was a bi-polar drug addict. Since, Ashley was an addict, Libba ran into many obstacles, first and foremost, the police refusing to file her as a missing person.

Just like John Walsh and others, Libba used her experience as a platform to help others. She started the organization, Outpost for Hope. Outpost provides resources for those who are looking for the "missing, missing", those that are missing but go unreported.

I am always inspired by those that take a tragic situation, and turn it into something good. Libba Phillips is one of those people!

Paul Ryan vs. Obama!

2011-04-13T01:38:00.001-05:00

Bill Kristol had high praise for Paul Ryan on Monday's edition of Special Report with Bret Baier. He noted that Ryan and Obama's roles have been switched since Obama gave his State of the Union address and Ryan gave the Republican response.

Why? Kristol put Ryan first because Ryan has "laid the groundwork for the battle". Kristol also pointed out that Ryan has laid out "a plausible, serious and substantive budget for the future". Ryan has been able to put Obama on the defensive, and now Obama is having to go back to the drawing board to come up with another plan. As columnist E. Thomas McClanahan asks, Are the Democrats as serious as Paul Ryan on cutting the budget?

Kristol also mentions a Ryan/Rubio 2012 ticket. Apparently, he mentioned it awhile ago as a stab in the dark and got a lot of good feedback. I would say he** yes, have you seen what else is out there? The thought of picking from the leftovers from 2008 (Huckabee, Romney and Pawlenty), makes me nauseous.

Additional Links:
The Radical Gradualism of Paul Ryan

Previously:
Paul Ryan on the GOP's Budget Blan!

150th Anniversary of the Civil War!

2011-04-12T00:31:00.002-05:00

Today is the 150th Anniversary of the Civil War! It is an amazing part of U.S. history. I have become a Civil War buff over this past year, as I did a Unit Study on it with my son for school. I especially was fascinated by the large number of women actively involved in the war, many disguising themselves as men so they could engage in the fighting.

Recently, I started watching additional movies and documentaries and started reading yet another book, The Blue and The Gray by Thomas B. Allen.

I found this older movie with the same title, The Blue and The Gray. It was filmed in 1982 and I'm sure many wouldn't like the quality, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was done in the same time period as Little House on the Prairie and Roots and had some of the same actors star in it. I was also amazed at how accurate a lot of it was, despite the fact that it wasn't a documentary.

After watching Ken Burns' wonderful Civil War documentary, I ended up purchasing it and plan on watching it again.

Previously:
~Women in the Civil War
~Studying the Civil War

5k Run For Orphans!

2011-04-08T00:01:00.003-05:00

My son and I, and a friend of mine and her sons are all running a 5k this Saturday, April 9th! It is for an awesome cause, orphans in the Dominican Republic.

Paul Ryan on the GOP's Budget Blan!

2011-04-07T00:40:00.007-05:00

THE PATH TO PROSPERITY: AMERICA'S TWO FUTURES, VISUALIZED

Paul Ryan (R-WI), who is the Chairman of the House Budget Committee, has laid out a great plan for making significant cuts in government spending. He calls the GOP plan, "the path to prosperity". Obama and the Democrats don't want to make the cuts, and it appears they want to play politics and force a government shutdown.

Mike's America did an excellent, comprehensive post on all of this. Some excerpts below on the Democrats' usual scare tactics:

Democrats Cry Wolf Once Too Often

Ryan's plan basically rolls back spending to 2008 levels. Were people starving in the streets in 2008 when Democrats ran the House of Representatives? You might think so if you listened to Democrats this week talk about Ryan's plan with the same shopworn scaremongering that has become a cliche in Washington since the Reagan era.

Democrats didn't even wait for Ryan to unveil his plan before they trotted out their recycled rhetoric about hurting kids and seniors and tax cuts for the rich. Those lines were written long ago. They were not true during the Reagan years when the budget reached $1.1 trillion and they are not true now with a budget of $3.6 trillion.

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi topped the crazy cake by insisting that GOP cuts would mean "six million seniors are deprived of meals." Were those seniors starving when Pelosi's Democrat controlled congress approved 2008 spending?

Take time to go read the plan for yourself!!

Previously:
--I'm a fan of Congressman Paul Ryan!!
--Congressman Paul Ryan's Response to President Obama's speech
--I love Paul Ryan!!
--I Heart Paul McRyan!!

My 2011 American Idol Favorites!

2011-04-06T22:55:00.000-05:00

Vote No on Kansas City's Earnings Tax on April 5th!

2011-03-29T00:56:00.000-05:00

Of the 150 biggest cities in America, somehow 125 of them struggle along without this tax. And they pay their firemen, and they pay their policemen, and they fix their streets. And on average they grow better in jobs and in population than cities that have an earnings tax.--Woody Cozad

Everywhere I turn, I see people being scared into thinking that they have to vote for Kansas City's earnings tax. Lets get some of the facts before being forced into voting to keep taxes higher. Most big cities thrive without an earnings tax, and so can we.

1st--The $200 Million Myth

2nd--E-tax backers use scare tactics

3rd--Why to Vote no on the E-Tax it’s not fair
Some excerpts from Mahlon Davis Jr.'s Post:

I want to employ a common sense approach to the E-Tax debate by viewing it as a citizen who lives in the inner city.

The people who really pay the E-Tax are citizens who can scarcely afford it in a declining economy. Let us start with a few real life examples of the people in my neighborhood,

* A mother of three who earns $20,000 a year pays $200 a year in earnings tax. In real life, this equals out to four (4) monthly bus passes to get her to and from work every day.
* My aunt is a hard working state employee, who makes between $25,000 to $30,000 a year. She would pay roughly $300 a year in earnings tax. Her deductible for health insurance is $300 and she has had a recent bout of illness. With major expenses like a mortgage, a car payment, regularly living plus the co-pay to see her physician, that 1% would make a big difference in her life.

Critics of this campaign concentrate on raising questions about funding sources rather than the merits of tax. Why because they know that Kansas Citians are being lied to. The facts are these:

* The people who really pay this tax are those people who can scarcely afford to do so.
* The rich, the retired and other special groups do not pay a dime.
* Most of our most prominent leaders telling the masses to approve this tax live E-Tax free.
* The inner city does not receive City services in the same manner as other outlying communities and does not get what it pays for.
* There is no compelling reason for our city leaders to look for innovations and new ways of doing business. When they receive a blank check every day that the E-tax is collected.
* Crime is a people problem and hiring more cops is not the answer besides phasing out the E-Tax will take 10 years at a rate of $20 million dollars a year.
* If Kansas City does not improve its present business climate, then it will lose its businesses to surrounding neighbors in Raytown, Independence, Lee’s Summit and Johnson County.

5th--Earnings-tax debate: Supporter, opponent make their cases

6th--Kansas City's earnings tax: A penny saved or a penny lost?
The pro and the con, David Stokes makes some great points!

For more info go here:
Kansas City Tax Reform

Saying Goodbye to World War I's Last Doughboy!

2011-03-15T01:38:00.002-05:00

Photo Credits: KC Star

He didn't seek the spotlight, but when Frank Buckles outlived every other American who'd served in World War I, he became what his biographer called "the humble patriot" and final torchbearer for the memory of that fading conflict.

Frank Buckles enlisted in World War I at the age of 16 and died on February 27th at the age of 110. He was born here in Missouri, but was raised in Oklahoma and died in West Virginia. He went to numerous recruiting stations until he convinced the right person he was old enough to enlist.

There are two other World War I veterans still alive from outside America. The survivors are Florence Green in Britain and Claude Choules in Australia.

Buckles was remembered at a ceremony at Liberty Memorial here in Kansas City this past Saturday, March 12th. Richard Myers, a former Air Force general and the onetime chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said,

"Frank Buckles passing means that there are no more living memories of World War I. So it is important for all of us to keep this memory alive."

President Barack Obama ordered that the day Buckles is buried that all U.S. flags on official buildings be lowered to half-staff. A burial is planned at Arlington National Cemetery.

Kansas City is honored to have the only World War I museum and it was an honor to have a ceremony for him here.

Unrest in Libya and the Middle East!

2011-03-08T02:26:00.000-06:00

Libyan Rebels Call for George Bush to Save Them

Barack Obama repeating Jimmy Carter's mistakes

Middle East shows the makings of democracy

Fighting Islamism must be top national priority

Governor Walker Answers Questions!

2011-02-25T21:52:00.001-06:00

I thought Governor Walker did a great job here answering questions and explaining his position. He really doesn't leave his critics with much to stand on, IMHO!

Also, an excellent column by the one and only Charles Krauthammer, Rubicon: A river in Wisconsin!

Wisconsin Governor Walker and Teachers' Union!

2011-02-24T11:54:00.001-06:00

The Wisconsin incident has special meaning to me because I grew up in Wisconsin. And I "get" whats going on because my husband used to work for a union. Here was my response to someone on facebook recently over the situation:

I know how Unions work. My husband belonged to one and when the company he worked for started to have financial problems it tried to cut the employees' benefits by a small portion so everyone could keep their jobs. Instead, the Union went on strike demanding to keep all of their pay and benefits they "earned". The result was the Union won, but 2 years later the company went bankrupt and everyone lost their jobs.

Union employees usually have far superior benefits than the average worker. Asking them to pay for part of their pension and part of the premiums for their health care isn't the end of the world. The other option is a tax raise on EVERY worker in Wisconsin. Your Governor thought your taxes were already too high.

I also agree with Dennis Miller's sentiments in the video above.

Related Links:
Ann Coulter: Look for the Union Fable
Fleebagger Fail...67% of Americans Reject Wisconsin Dems Fleeing State
Wisconsin Assembly Reaches Deal--Debate on Budget Bill Will End Today
Unions for public employees have been a 50-year policy mistake

Winter Jam 2011 in Kansas City!

2011-02-21T02:39:00.000-06:00

I went to Winter Jam last night at the Sprint Center. It was a great time. Many people didn't make it before the doors closed, because it was only a $10 donation to attend.

I was looking forward to hearing Franchesca Battistelli and Kutless. Yet, I think I enjoyed the David Crowder Band and the Newsboys the best. The David Crowder band enables you to worship God in a powerful way. The Newsboys put on a great concert and I really enjoyed hearing from Michael Tait.

The Donald Rumsfeld Interviews about His Memoirs--Known and Unknown!

2011-02-08T15:48:00.001-06:00

If you're not being criticized, you may not be doing much.

The Path you didn't take is always smoother.

Well, you know, I've listened to him (Vice President Joe Biden) for so many years. There's not much he hasn't said from time to time.--Donald Rumsfeld

I will be updating and adding to this post as Rumsfeld does more interviews. He is going to be on Hannity's show tonight, so I will definitely be adding that. I have always had a special place in my heart for Rummy, and I am so glad to see him come out with his memoirs.

The Rumsfeld Papers

Rush's Interview

Rumsfeld Foundation

Diane Sawyer's interview with Donald Rumsfeld

Previously:
Conservative Profile #6--Why I Love Donald Rumsfeld

Remembering Ronald Reagan's 100th Birthday!

2011-02-06T00:48:00.000-06:00

Don't You Miss the Authentic and Heartfelt Humor of Ronald Reagan? YES!!

Ronald Reagan holds a special place in so many Americans' hearts. He is also beloved internationally as well. Just recently, I talked to someone who lived in Germany when the Berlin wall came down, and I asked what the German people thought of Reagan. They, of course, had a favorable view of him.

Also, the more time goes by, the kinder history is treating his presidency and legacy. Contrast that to say, Jimmy Carter, where, the more time goes by, the more damage we see he has done.

Mike has been having a Reagan Centennial Celebration celebrating Reagan's 100th birthday. It reminds me of how Mike and I first connected in the blog realm. He was writing about Reagan and linking to everyone else who wanted to as well. That is when I wrote my 3 part series on what Ronald Reagan meant to me.

I was young when Reagan was president and unfortunately I didn't pay much attention at the time. I came to love Reagan much later. Yet, I was amazed at how distraught I was when I learned of his death.

Speechwriter Peter Robinson's book, How Ronald Reagan Changed My Life speaks for a lot of people. He inspired and changed generations of Conservatives and gave them hope.

Dick Cheney and Sarah Palin both spoke at the Reagan Ranch Center in honor of Reagan's birthday! I could not think of two more fitting people to honor Reagan. Mike recalls the awesome partnership that Thatcher and Reagan had together.

Related Links:
Americans Recall Reagan Legacy on his 100th Birthday
Why I Love Ronald Reagan--Part 1
Why I Love Ronald Reagan--Part 2
Why I Love Ronald Reagan--Part 3

The Citizen--Kansas City's Conservative Newspaper!

2011-01-31T16:28:00.000-06:00

Kansas City is finally going to have a Conservative Newspaper! Below is a description of what its going to be about:

Our mission

The Citizen provides news, opinion and a voice for readers committed to liberty and freedom.

* We are a much-needed balance to the regional media landscape and a provocateur. We are not passive — nor should you be.

* We think for ourselves and understand that independence carries responsibility — to help create a more educated, more active civic conversation. We want our readers to read, to learn, and, ultimately, to act.

* Finally, we report using all the facts available, but we don’t stop there. We intend to motivate our readers and our elected officials to action. We are in this to change things.

So, what is The Citizen?

We're a new monthly newspaper for the Kansas City metro area. We're planning our first issue in February, but you can have a peek right now.

Are we biased? Yes -- just like every other newspaper and magazine. Are we different? Yes -- because we're not afraid to admit that things like a love of freedom and a belief in personal responsibility matter, and they inform what we choose to cover.

We'll be free to readers and ad-supported.

I am excited about it for numerous reasons, but also because I'm going to be writing for it! My monthly column is under the "Faith and Family" category, but those who know me, know it will encompass much more than that.

Check out the facebook page, the website will be finished soon, and follow on Twitter.

Related Links:
The Citizen is Coming
TKC BREAKING NEWS!!! KANSAS CITY CONSERVATIVE MONTHLY NEWSPAPER "THE CITIZEN" STARTS PUBLICATION THIS WEEK!!!

Friday Smorgasbord!

2011-01-28T14:09:00.000-06:00

Mike's America is hosting a Reagan Centennial Celebration!
I am excited about celebrating and remembering the 100th anniversary of Ronald Reagan's birth! So, join in by sharing your memories about Reagan.

Obama not responding well to Egypt Crisis...

Now, there are indications the administration’s effort to play global politics to its advantage by soft-pedaling Egypt's abuses could be backfiring. The Times story notes: “This balancing of private pressure with strong public support for Mr. Mubarak has become increasingly tenuous in recent days.”

Increasingly, the administration is coming under criticism for first appearing to,encourage pro-democracy movements that it now seems very reticent to embrace. The clash over human rights also appears to be on the verge of triggering a political clash in the United States: Republicans well remember the tepid White House response to the crackdown on protesters following fraudulent elections in Iran in 2009. Republicans complained that President Barack Obama’s response was too timid.

The incredibly, brilliant Joe Biden also has weighed in saying, "he doesn't consider Egyptian leader Hosni Mubarak a dictator." The Slatest says it best:

The White House may stand behind the protesters in Tunisia, but demonstrators in Egypt haven't gotten the presidential blessing. Appearing on PBS NewHour last night, gaffe-prone Vice President Joe Biden remarked that he doesn't consider Egyptian leader Hosni Mubarak a dictator—despite his 29-year rule—and isn't sure what exactly protesters want. (For the record, its "freedom, democracy, an end to police torture, and a more committed government effort to address" poverty, the Christian Science Monitor says). When asked to describe Mubarak, Biden told host Jim Lehrer that he "has been an ally of ours in a number of things. And he's been very responsible on, relative to geopolitical interest in the region, the Middle East peace efforts; the actions Egypt has taken relative to normalizing relationship with—with Israel. … I would not refer to him as a dictator." The vice president then suggested that the government should work with protesters to discern "what the legitimate claims being made are, if they are, and try to work them out."

Meghan McCain is a "Poor Man's Ron Reagan"!
Meghan McCain said that Michele Bachmann was a poor man's Sarah Palin. So, when I heard Laura Ingraham's quote about Meghan on O'Reilly's show, I got a huge smile on my face, so true.
O'Reilly tried to say that McCain was a part of a certain wing of the Republican party. Ingraham disagreed, and so did I. Everything she spouts is trashing members of the Republican party and liberal ideals.

“Of Gods and Men” – New Movie Tells Story of Christian Persecution in Algeria
I'm looking forward to seeing this...

Abortion Clinic--House of Horrors!

2011-01-27T12:31:00.002-06:00

Abortion Clinic described as House of Horrors
Abortionist, Kermit Gosnell was charged with 8 murders. The abortion clinic hadn't been inspected since 1993. One death was a woman, the others were infants who were viable babies in the sixth, seventh and eighth month of the pregnancy. Gosnell cut the babies' spinal cords with scissors.

Maafa 21's claim of black genocide might not be far off when you look at who went to this clinic--low-income, minorities.

Ron Reagan Jr. is an Embarrassment!

2011-01-16T22:22:00.000-06:00

“Ron was an embarrassment to his father when he was alive and today he became an embarrassment to his mother.”--Michael Reagan

How does one describe Ron Reagan Jr.? Embarrassment, disrespectful, condescending, media-whore, etc... When I first saw that he was coming out with a book critical of his father, I figured it was par for the course since he is an atheist liberal. Yet, when I read an actual excerpt from the book in Parade magazine I was taken aback. I couldn't believe how condescending he was towards his father. It was this whole elitist attitude that he was smarter than his Dad, even though his Dad was president. Unbelievable!! It takes a lot of chutz·pa, but I guess he feels emboldened by his liberal buddies in the media.

Ron claims that his Dad had Alzheimer's while he was still president, never mind that all Reagan's doctors and outside experts disagree. Reagan's sane son, Michael, violently disagrees with Ron, as usual. Michael ripped into Ron for his claims about their Dad's Alzheimer's.

Veronica's Voice Opens Magdalene Manor to Help Women Escape Prostitution!

2011-01-13T01:23:00.001-06:00

"I'll never forget the dark pit God reached into and pulled me out of. Even after I was out, my heart still pained for my sisters that were still lost, trapped, tricked, or caught-up in "the life". So I started VERONICA'S Voice to be a light for these wonderful women still surviving in the darkness."

-Kristy Childs - Survivor, Foundress VERONICA'S Voice

The KC Star reported on the opening of Magdalene Manor and I was encouraged to learn of the ministry to women by Veronica's Voice. Below is an excerpt:

The first residents will move into the house, called Magdalene Manor, at an undisclosed location in Kansas City. The home will augment the existing Veronica’s Voice safe center, where clients receive services and support, Childs said.

Childs believes there is only one other similar residential facility in the country for victims of the commercial sex trade, and Veronica’s Voice is only one of a handful of organizations like it in the country.

The persistent perception that prostitution is a victimless crime is belied by the lives of the 8,000 women and girls she has spoken to since founding Veronica’s Voice in 2000, Childs said.

The organization is named for one of those victims — Veronica Neverdusky — a friend of Childs’ who was 21 in 1993 when she was strangled and dumped in Kansas City’s Penn Valley Park.

Kristy Childs is an inspirational woman and its wonderful to know that Kansas City has a place of refuge for victims of sexual abuse and exploitation.

Arizona Sheriff and Liberals are Shameless!!

2011-01-12T12:16:00.001-06:00

The Tucson Shooting that happened this past Saturday, January 8th was a tragedy. Six people lost their lives, 14 were wounded, including Arizona Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords.

Yet, Democrats, liberals and the Media have tried to turn this tragedy into a political football with ABSOLUTELY NO EVIDENCE to back up their reckless accusations. Arizona Sheriff Dupnik is leading the charge and is committing the very irresponsible acts that he is accusing Rush and others of. It is infuriating when it is obvious that the Sheriff and others have never listened to Rush or others in talk radio to hear what they actually say.

It is also insanity to link talk show hosts to murder. Especially, since talk show hosts have no control over mentally ill murderers. And especially since the shooter DIDN'T EVEN LISTEN to talk radio and wasn't even a conservative or a Republican. Yet, none of this stopped liberal Democrats rush to judgment.

The Fairness Doctrine is being brought up again (even though it has NOTHING to do with this tragedy). Stricter gun control laws are being talked of again, even though responsible people owning guns stop tragedies like this one. As Rahm Emanuel so eloquently said,

"You Never Want A Serious Crisis To Go To Waste."

At least not when it comes to liberals. Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders(D) is even using the tragedy as a chance to fundraise! Does it get more despicable than that?

Sarah Palin: "America's Enduring Strength" from Sarah Palin on Vimeo.

Sarah Palin speaks out since she was drug into the discussion, just like Rush. Yet, she is accused by liberals of making herself a part of the story, UNBELIEVABLE!!!

--Why stricter gun laws would have made the AZ shooting worse

Believe!

2011-01-09T16:20:00.000-06:00

Pray for Peace for Sudan--January 3-9, 2010!!

2011-01-03T00:05:00.000-06:00

Photo Credits: Samaritan's Purse

Christians are praying for peace as millions prepare to vote on independence for southern Sudan on January 9 ~~Samaritan's Purse

Samaritan's Purse along with many other Christian groups are praying for peace for Sudan as millions prepare to vote on independence for southern Sudan on January 9. Here is an excerpt from Samaritan's Purse's website:

Following decades of civil war that claimed more than 2 million lives, the people of southern Sudan may soon declare independence in a historic referendum on January 9. A peaceful vote is critical for the future of Sudan and surrounding nations.

Church leaders from Khartoum to Juba have asked Samaritan’s Purse to help coordinate seven days of prayer, from January 3-9. Believers across Sudan and around the world will be gathering on January 9 for 24 hours of fasting and prayer.

Return to our Hope for Sudan website for daily prayer updates, January 3-9.

Links:
DAILY PRAYER REQUESTS FOR SUDAN
Hope For Sudan - 7 Days of Prayer

Previously:
Sudan--Global Day of Prayer!
Horrific Flogging of Woman in Sudan!
President Bush Fed Up With UN's Lack of Action on Darfur
Genocide in Darfur

God Speaking!

2011-01-02T15:05:00.002-06:00

God Speaking!
sung by Ronnie Freeman

Chorus:
Who knows
How He'll get ahold of us?
Get our attention
To prove He is enough
He'll do
And He'll use whatever He wants to
To tell us
"I love You"

For the rest of the lyrics, go here!

Happy New Year 2011!

2011-01-01T15:43:00.000-06:00

Some of my favorite posts from 2010!!

1) A Conversation with President George W. Bush in Kansas City!!

2) Lunch with Condoleeza Rice!

3) 2010 Election Victories!

4) Women in the Civil War!

5) Ronald Reagan's Faith

6) I Heart Paul McRyan!!

7) Two Rock Star Republican Governors!!

8) Inspirational Woman #1--Liz Bohannon!

9) 2010 Clay County Republican Lincoln Days!

10) Winning America Back with Sarah Palin, JC Watts and Fred Thompson!! and the Pics

11) A Review of "I Am Nujood, Age 10 and Divorced"

12) Taking Our Country Back w/ Sean Hannity and Karl Rove in KC!

13) Sudan--Global Day of Prayer!

14) Remarkable Women Profile #1--The Iron Lady--Margaret Thatcher!

15) Scott Brown makes history-wins U.S. Senate Seat in MA 52% to 47%

Previous Posts:
2009
2007

Merry Christmas!!

2010-12-25T01:21:00.003-06:00

David Barton has written a great article, Christmas – as Celebrated by the Presidents. Below is an excerpt:

Christmas was celebrated by our national leaders as a religious holiday, not the secular holiday it has become.

For example, every Christmas Eve, President Teddy Roosevelt and his family would pile into the family sleigh (later the motor car) and travel to a Christmas service at Christ Church in Oyster Bay, New York. Following the pastor’s sermon, Teddy would deliver one of his famous “sermonettes” on the true meaning of Christmas and then close the service with one of his favorite hymns, “Christmas By the Sea.”

President Franklin Roosevelt would set up and decorate a tree on Christmas Eve, gather the family round him, and either read Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” or recite it from memory. (The original story is quite different from the modern movies by that name and is well worth the read.) He would also deliver explicitly religious Christmas Eve messages to the nation. For example, in 1944 following D-Day, he said:
Here, at home, we will celebrate this Christmas Day in our traditional American way – because of its deep spiritual meaning to us; because the teachings of Christ are fundamental in our lives; and because we want our youngest generation to grow up knowing the significance of this tradition and the story of the coming of the immortal Prince of Peace and good will. . . . [FDR then prayed a prayer for the troops, and closed with:] We pray that with victory will come a new day of peace on earth in which all the Nations of the earth will join together for all time. That is the spirit of Christmas, the holy day. May that spirit live and grow throughout the world in all the years to come.

Some Christ-centered Christmas messages from Presidents:

--Franklin Roosevelt in 1935
--Harry Truman in 1949 or 1952
--Ronald Reagan in 1982 or 1985
--George W. Bush in 2003

Good-bye Steele, Hello Ann Wagner!!

2010-12-16T00:12:00.002-06:00

I have made it known that I am not a Michael Steele fan. I wanted to throw him under the bus a long time ago. Apparently, I'm not the only one.

Steele says he is running again, but others are throwing their hats in the ring too. One of them is from right here in Missouri, and I've had the privilege of meeting her. She is Ann Wagner, and she is a stellar Conservative Republican with an impressive resume.

She is definitely my first choice, but lets face it, almost anyone is going to be better than Michael Steele.

Horrific Flogging of Woman in Sudan!

2010-12-15T00:08:00.002-06:00

Via Gateway Pundit:

Societies that treat women badly, are dangerous societies.~~Condoleeza Rice

I have been outspoken about human rights abuses in other countries, especially against women. Sudan is plagued by genocide in Darfur and their human rights' abuses are atrocious. Sudan is run by Omar al-Bashir, who was listed as the world's 2nd worst dictator by Parade Magazine last year.

Sudan needs our prayer, and the women in the Middle East and other countries need our help and prayers as well.

Neil Cavuto Rocks!!

2010-12-14T01:10:00.003-06:00

Wow!! I don't think I've ever been more impressed with Neil Cavuto. He makes some awesome points and tells Chris Matthews where to shove his condescending comments.

The Way!

2010-12-12T00:02:00.000-06:00

The Way!
sung by Jeremy Camp

Chorus:
Shine, bright
Let Your glory fill this land
Lift high, the King of Kings and great I am
Jesus, You are the way

For the rest of the lyrics, go here!

Friday Headlines!

2010-12-10T01:42:00.002-06:00

~~Wow! Christmas Comes Early to Gold Star Family on “Today Show” (Video)

~~NPR, PBS Soon Extinct?

~~Liberal Democrat Drops F-Bomb On Obama At Caucus Meeting On Tax Cuts

Friday Night Lights!

2010-12-08T02:57:00.002-06:00

Friday Night Lights is my latest addiction! It is a great show!!

Hanging On!

2010-12-05T00:03:00.000-06:00

Hanging On!
sung by Britt Nicole

Chorus:
Hanging on to every word You speak
'Cause it's all that I need
Hanging on to every word You say
To light up my way
Even every little whisper I'm
Hanging on as if it were my life
I'm hanging on

For the rest of the lyrics, go here!

My 2010 Book List So Far...Part 3

2010-12-03T00:13:00.001-06:00

I am finishing up my books on Women in the Civil War. I have loved learning about the courage and bravery of these amazing women.

As soon as I am done with my latest book, I am going to embark on Bush's book. I am looking forward to it.

Below I have updated my list. The titles in blue are the ones that I've read since the last post.

Here are the books that I have read so far:

1) Going Rogue: An American Life~~Sarah Palin
2) 365 Ways to Live Cheap!~~Trent Hamm
3) Sarah~~Kaylene Johnson
4) Margaret Thatcher, Britain's "Iron Lady"~~Doris Faber
5) Madam Prime Minister~~Libby Huges
6) Margaret Thatcher~~Bernard Garfinkel
7) Praying God's Word~~Beth Moore
8) Finding Peace in Life's Storms~~Charles Spurgeon
9) I am Nujood, Age 10 and Divorced~~Nujood Ali w/Delphine Minoui
10) The Girl Friend's Bible~~Cathy Hamilton
11) Wit and Wisdom of the American Presidents~~Joslyn Pine
12) Our Presidents...At a Glance~~Rolf Benj. Vinmont
13) Clarence Thomas~~Vicki Cox
14) Uncle Bert~~Hulda Hoover McLean
15) The Power of Prayer in a Believer's Life~~Charles Spurgeon
16) The First World War~~Paul Dowswell
17) Tad Lincoln~~John D. Weaver
18) Uncharted Territori~~Tori Spelling
19) The Official Record of the Oklahoma City Bombing~~Oklahoma Today
20) Finger Lickin Fifteen~~Janet Evanovich
21) A Pictorial Biography Ike~~William F. Longgood
22) Women in the First World War~~Neil Storey and Molly Housego
23) First Ladies of the White House~~Nancy Skarmeas
24) Plum Spooky~~Janet Evanovich
25) Fields of Fury~~James McPherson
26) Harriet Beecher Stowe~~Henry Elliot
27) I'll Pass For Your Comrade~~Anita Silvey
28) Women at the Front~~Jean F. Blashfield
29) Spies! Women in the Civil War~~Penny Colman
30) Dr. Mary Edwards Walker~~Bonnie Goldsmith
31) Women in the Civil War~~Larry G. Eggleston

Here are the books on CD that I've listened too:

1) Feminist Fantasies~~Phyllis Schafly
2) Blue Skies, No Fences: A Memoir of Childhood and Family~~Lynne Cheney
3) The Downing Street Years~~Margaret Thatcher
4) Roots~~Alex Haley
5) Hand of Providence~~Mary Beth Brown
6) The Long Road to Gettysburg~~Jim Murphy

Previously:
Book List 1
Book List 2

Stephanie Plum's 12 Days of Christmas!!

2010-12-01T01:26:00.003-06:00

Its time for a little levity!! You won't get the significance of the video unless you are a fan of Janet Evanovich's book series about Stephanie Plum.

Its a great series that is similar to Sue Grafton and Mary Higgins Clarks' books. Yet, Evanovich throws in some great comedy and romance. I literally laugh out loud every time I read one.

I will issue a warning though, there is a lot of language and some "adult" issues that are discussed in the books.

Fall Out Over the WikiLeaks!

2010-11-30T01:52:00.005-06:00

--Obama says there is a zero tolerance policy for the wikileaks, yet, they keep happening.

--As Bill O'Reilly says in the above clip, there isn't anyone in the world who is afraid of Obama, which may be a big part of the problem.

--Hillary says once they are caught, they will be prosecuted, but the "being caught" is proving to be the biggest problem.

--Sarah Palin blames Obama for the wikileaks, and suggests that if she were President they wouldn't be happening.

--Peter Schweizer says its time for drastic and decisive action!

Walk on Water!

2010-11-28T00:01:00.000-06:00

Walk on Water!
sung by Britt Nicole

Chorus:
So what are you waiting for?
What do you have to lose?
Your insecurities try to hold to you

You know you're made for more
So don't be afraid to move
Your faith is all
It takes and you can
Walk on the water too

For the rest of the lyrics, go here!

This is my theme song for my life right now! I love it!!

The Trashing of Bristol Palin!

2010-11-25T21:04:00.004-06:00

Joy Behar doesn't seem to possess a decent bone in her body. I have never seen someone spew as much venom as she does towards anyone that doesn't agree with her. I can't believe how her and her entire panel sit there and personally trash Bristol. Sandra Bernard goes so far as to call Bristol Palin a hooker and no one else in the panel even flinches.

Can you imagine if someone was talking this way about Chelsea Clinton or Obama's daughters? If a panel talked this way about anyone on Fox News, you would never hear the end of it.

Oh yeah, and the only Republican Behar says she likes is Mike Huckabee, enough said!!!

Related Links:
Leftists Go Texas-Cheerleader-Mom on Bristol Palin in ‘DWTS’
How The Old Media Constantly Undermines Sarah Palin

Happy Thanksgiving!!

2010-11-24T00:02:00.000-06:00

Now, therefore, I do recommend and assign Thursday, the 26th day of November next, to be devoted by the people of these States to the service of that great and glorious Being who is the beneficent author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be; that we may then all unite in rendering unto Him our sincere and humble thanks for His kind care and protection of the people of this country previous to their becoming a nation;

for the signal and manifold mercies and the favorable interpositions of His providence in the course and conclusion of the late war; for the great degree of tranquility, union, and plenty which we have since enjoyed; for the peaceable and rational manner in which we have been enabled to establish constitutions of government for our safety and happiness, and particularly the national one now lately instituted; for the civil and religious liberty with which we are blessed, and the means we have of acquiring and diffusing useful knowledge; and, in general, for all the great and various favors which He has been pleased to confer upon us.
--President George Washington, Thanksgiving 1789

No human counsel hath devised, nor hath any mortal hand worked out these great things. They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God, who, while dealing with us in anger for our sins, hath nevertheless remembered mercy.

It has seemed to me fit and proper that they should be solemnly, reverently and gratefully acknowledged as with one heart and voice by the whole American people; I do, therefore, invite my fellow citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next as a Day of Thanksgiving and Prayer to our beneficent Father, who dwelleth in the heavens.

And I recommend to them that, while offering up the ascriptions justly due to him that, for such singular deliverances and blessings; they do also, with humble penitence for our national perverseness and disobedience, commend to His tender care all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners or sufferers in the lamentable civil strife in which we are unavoidably engaged, and fervently implore the interposition of the Almighty hand to heal the wounds of the nation and to restore it, as soon as may be consistent with the Divine purposes, to the full enjoyment of peace, harmony, tranquility, and union.
--President Abraham Lincoln, Thanksgiving Proclamation, 1863

Much of the credit for the adoption of Thanksgiving as an annual national holiday may be attributed to Mrs. Sarah Josepha Hale, the editor of Godey’s Lady’s Book, a popular lady’s books containing poetry, art work, and articles by America’s leading authors. For nearly three decades, she promoted the idea of a national Thanksgiving Day, contacting president after president until Abraham Lincoln responded in 1863 by setting aside the last Thursday of that November.

The Thanksgiving proclamation issued by Lincoln was remarkable not only for its strong religious content but also for its timing, for it was delivered in the midst of the darkest days of the Civil War, with the Union having lost battle after battle throughout the first three years of that conflict. Yet, despite those dark circumstances, Lincoln nevertheless called Americans to prayer with an air of positive optimism and genuine thankfulness, noting that:

The year that is drawing toward its close has been filled with the blessings of fruitful fields and healthful skies. To these bounties, which are so constantly enjoyed that we are prone to forget the Source from which they come, others have been added which are of so extraordinary a nature that they can not fail to penetrate and soften even the heart which is habitually insensible to the ever-watchful providence of Almighty God. . . . No human counsel hath devised nor hath any mortal hand worked out these great things. They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God, Who, while dealing with us in anger for our sins, hath nevertheless remembered mercy.

That remarkable Thanksgiving Proclamation came at a pivotal point in Lincoln’s spiritual life. Three months earlier, the Battle of Gettysburg had occurred, resulting in the loss of some 60,000 American lives. It had been while Lincoln was walking among the thousands of graves there at Gettysburg that he first committed his life to Christ. As he later explained to a clergyman:

When I left Springfield [Illinois, to assume the Presidency], I asked the people to pray for me. I was not a Christian. When I buried my son, the severest trial of my life, I was not a Christian. But when I went to Gettysburg and saw the graves of thousands of our soldiers, I then and there consecrated myself to Christ.

The dramatic spiritual impact resulting from that experience was not only visible in Lincoln’s Thanksgiving Day proclamation (and also his 1864 call for a day of prayer and fasting) but especially in his 1865 Second Inaugural Address.

Over the seventy-five years following Lincoln’s Thanksgiving Proclamation, presidents faithfully followed Lincoln’s precedent, annually declaring a national Thanksgiving Day (but the date of the celebrations varied widely from proclamation to proclamation). In 1933, President Franklin D. Roosevelt began celebrating Thanksgiving on the fourth Thursday of each November, and in 1941, Congress permanently established that day as the national Thanksgiving holiday.
--Dave Barton, Celebrating Thanksgiving in America

A Conversation with President George W. Bush in Kansas City!!

2010-11-23T00:02:00.000-06:00

The best word to describe last night's event is that it was AMAZING!! Rainy Day Books sponsored an interview with President George W. Bush at Unity Temple on the Plaza about his memoirs, Decision Points. Tickets for the event sold out last Monday, and the extra autographed copies sold out last Tuesday. Unity Temple was filled to capacity with over 1200 people. My friends and I arrived at 4:00 and were in the doors by 5:00. So, I missed the lame protesters, according to news media outlets, there were 18 of them.

As I was listening to Bush talk, and taking notes, I was struck by how he was even more real, down to earth, likable, charming and funny in person. He also exuded confidence, but was not arrogant, and the way he described his faith was inspiring! It was a very memorable experience. It is hard to imagine why anyone would hate him.

Below is a summary of my notes and observations of the event:

He was interviewed by Vivien Jennings, Founder & President of Rainy Day Books. He started off with some self-deprecating humor, by saying that most people didn't think he could read a book, let alone write one. He also said that Laura and Jenna had been invited by Rainy Day Books first, and now he finally got invited.

Jennings asked him what question would he liked to have been asked, that had not been asked so far. He joked that it would be, "Why did you trade Sammy Sosa?" He then went on to say, "Why did you spend tax money to help the people of Africa?" His answer was:
1) The enemy can only recruit when it has hopeless people
2) It is in the moral interests of a nation. He quoted the old adage, of whom much is given, much is required.

He talked about how important it is to have genuine friends. Harry Truman said, "If you want a friend in Washington, get a dog." According to Bush, a friend in Washington is one that you had, before, you came to Washington.

He gave a passionate monologue on how life is full of risks. He took a big risk to run for president. He risked either being called "a pathetic candidate" or if he got elected, "a pathetic president." Yet, he didn't want to be sitting in a corner as an old man drooling, saying he could've been a great president, but he never ran. He got huge applause after this, as he did after many of his lines.

He described himself as a "half-glass full guy" and someone who has a passion for history. As someone who would describe myself exactly the same way, it was music to my ears. He said it was fascinating to be making history and reading it, at the same time.

He talked about a time that he bragged about how Laura was the greatest first lady ever, and then realized he was mentioning this in front of his mother. That would be a unique problem no one has had to deal with, since John Quincy Adams. He also mentioned Laura being the first, first lady to give the Radio Address, where she spoke to the women of Afghanistan. I would have to imagine that meant something to quite a few women in Afghanistan, who had virtually no rights before the war.

He mentioned that he was upset with Jenna and her husband, because there are no grandchildren yet. She says she is young, but Bush says he isn't. There was another nice round of applause after this too.

He defended his pick of Dick Cheney as Vice-President. He said he wanted someone who was capable of becoming president and who had Washington and Foreign policy experience. He also didn't want someone who wanted to be his successor. I remember when I first heard that Cheney was his pick for VP, I was like who is Dick Cheney? Yet, I couldn't have been happier with Cheney as VP. I'm with Bush in that I think he was the perfect choice.

One thing Bush didn't understand was the endless, childish name calling, and he refused to engage in it. Many of us wished he would've defended himself more against those attacks, but he didn't want to lower the office of the presidency. He reminded us of the names that Lincoln was called. I remember being struck by that when I visited the Lincoln Museum. He was called a tyrant, a hick and a stupid baboon and yet, today he is regarded by most as our greatest president.

When asked about his faith, I was struck by how genuine and humble Bush was as he responded. He said prayer is key and success in your Christian walk is accepting your place with the risen Lord by surrendering, which is a continual process. The White House was joyous because of his relationship with the Lord. One of his favorite verses is Matthew 7:5-"...first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye." He said its a good verse for all politicians.

Yet, he was quick to reiterate that what makes the United States great is the fact that we have freedom of religion. The contrast is that we face an enemy that kills you, if you don't believe in the right religion.

As I mentioned, it was so much more amazing to see him in person than on TV. I came away with even more admiration for him.

The media was only allowed to stay for a short amount of time. Below are links to their short coverage:
--KSHB
--Fox 4
--KC Star
--KMBC

Republican 12 of 2012!

2010-11-22T00:05:00.002-06:00

Brett Baier has been doing this great series entitled, 12 of 2012 where he takes a look at 12 Republicans who might run for the Republican nomination for President in 2012. The past 2 weeks he has covered one a day on his show, Special Report and concluded last Friday with the final one and some extras.

I knew and was familiar with most of the names on the list. The 3 that surprised me were Haley Barbour, Mitch Daniels and Mike Pence. I didn't know that any of those were high profile enough to be considered and didn't know much about Daniels or Barbour. I was really impressed with Barbour and was equally unimpressed with Daniels.

I decided to rank the 12 by putting the ones I love at the top and the ones I'm not crazy about at the bottom. As anyone knows that has read my blog, I'm pretty passionate about people one way or another. I either love you, strongly dislike you or am apathetic about you. I will leave comments on why I have ranked them in the place they are at.

If you want to weigh in, you can vote in Fox News' poll.

The 12:
1) Sarah Palin~~I am just as excited about her as I was the day she was announced as John McCain's VP. Her book made me love her more and everything she touches succeeds. I wasn't sure what resigning as Governor would do to her, but she resigned for the right reasons and has done an amazing job on everything since then.

My only concern about her is that the Drive By Media has been somewhat successful in demonizing her with Independents. That said, Ronald Reagan and George W. Bush were able to overcome the Media demonization, and as both Palin supporters and detractors have learned, don't ever underestimate her!!

2) NJ Governor Chris Christie~~Let me count the ways I love this man. The first time I saw him speak, I just went wow!!! He is real, he tells it likes it is and he has the right principles, a genuine Republican Rock Star. As Larry Sabato says in the above video, Republicans love him because he has style and substance--EXACTLY!!! Thats what we always look for, and thats what Reagan had.

The only problem is that Christie has been emphatic about not running, I guess we'll have to wait and see.

3) SD Senator John Thune~~This Senator had me when he booted Tom Daschle out of the Senate. Again, as far as I'm concerned, he has both style and substance as well.

4) Congressman Mike Pence~~I'm not sure how much of a chance Pence has but there are very few conservatives that don't love Mike Pence.

5) MS Governor Haley Barbour~~I didn't realize how impressive Barbour was until seeing this series. I wasn't aware of all his experience, and he did do an amazing job in his state during Katrina. I think he would be great. It remains to be seen though if he can overcome the stigma of having been a lobbyist, and his wonderful southern accent ;-).

--After this my enthusiasm goes way down :(

6) SC Senator Jim DeMint~~DeMint is a great conservative with great principles and he looks awesome on paper, he just doesn't translate much excitement. I hate to say it, but if he can't muster enthusiasm with a political junkie, he isn't going to capture the attention of the swing voters.

7) LA Governor Bobby Jindal~~I think it depends on who you talk to on how Jindal has done as Governor of Louisiana. He definitely did a better job with the recent oil crisis than the Federal Government. Yet, once again, he is boring. I had high hopes for him until I saw him give the Republican response to Obama's State of the Union and it was all over for me.

8) Newt Gingrich~~I have a love/hate relationship with Newt. One minute he is saying something for me to cheer about, and the next minute he is ticking me off. He is very smart and likable and is a great conservative about 80% of the time, but he caves to liberals over the strangest things.

He has definitely been able to remake his image after the liberals destroyed it, but he still has too much baggage. He is great at what he does now, run a conservative think tank, write books and be an analyst.

9) Mitt Romney~~I would've much rather had Romney over McCain in 2008 but that shows you how bad our pickings were. I really don't want to see him run again. Social conservatives are still nervous about where he really stands on abortion and marriage and for good reason. He's just not conservative enough.

10) IN Governor Mitch Daniels~~He is just too boring! I didn't know much about him before this series and afterwards I was unimpressed. He may have done great things for Indiana but he wants to put economic issues ahead of social issues and he has no personality.

11) Governor Tim Pawlenty~~Boring and too liberal!!

12) Mike Huckabee~~Anyone that knows me knows that there is no other Republican that I despise more than Huckabee, except maybe Ron Paul. My infamous quote is that "if he is our nominee for 2012 I'm going to slit my wrists". So, I'm guessing there are some liberals out there hoping for Huckabee to be the Republican nominee :).

I wrote extensively about my issues with Huckabee back in 2008. He whined in the 2012 segment with Brett that he had the right message but might not have the money. If people liked you and your message, you wouldn't have a problem raising money, get a clue!!

Brett mentioned a couple of dark horses at the end, none of whom I think have a prayer or who should have a prayer:

--Rudy Guiliani
--John Bolton
--Donald Trump
--Governor Rick Perry
--Rick Santorum
--Governor Gary Johnson
--Governor Bob McDonnell
--Governor George Pataki
--Ron Paul

The only one who wasn't listed whom I think should be listed and who I think has a real shot in the future is Congressman Paul Ryan (WI). He is a Republican Rock Star with both substance and style.

~~I'll be attending the Bush event tonight, so stay tuned for a reporting on it tomorrow.

What Love Really Means!

2010-11-21T01:26:00.003-06:00

What Love Really Means!
sung by JJ Heller

Chorus:
Who will love me for me
Not for what I have done or what I will become
Who will love me for me
‘Cause nobody has shown me what love
What love really means

For the rest of the lyrics, go here!

I used to post a Worship and/or Inspirational Christian song every Sunday. I haven't done it in quite awhile, but I'm going to start again.

Kansas City is now blessed with 2 great Christian radio stations that play wonderful Contemporary music. It took forever, but now we have two, K-Love and Air1. Expect to see a lot of Jeremy Camp and Britt Nicole, because those are my 2 favorite artists right now.

Argentine Woman Slaps Man Over Budget Battle!

2010-11-20T01:03:00.000-06:00

I was dying laughing when I saw this for the first time. We think things get heated here in the U.S. political realm. The budget battle in Argentina got so heated that this woman got physical.

Sarah Palin's Alaska!

2010-11-18T01:19:00.003-06:00

When I first heard that Sarah Palin was going to do a reality show, I didn't know what to think. Yet, as I saw the trailers for it, I could tell that it was going to be good.

I set up the DVR and watched it along with 5 million other viewers, setting a record for the launch of a show on TLC. It was great to see what its like to experience life in Alaska and also, to see a little of how Palin juggles all the things in her life. I am looking forward to the rest of the 8 part series!

Dick Cheney Praises Bush and Takes a Shot at Obama at Groundbreaking Ceremony!

2010-11-17T01:48:00.003-06:00

Let me count the ways that I love Dick Cheney :-)! (I almost didn't recognize him in the above video, he's lost so much weight.) Yesterday, he introduced Bush at the groundbreaking ceremony in Dallas for the George W. Bush Presidential Center! He took that opportunity to say the following:

..."history is beginning to come around" to a more positive view of former President George W. Bush.

Cheney said that Mr. Bush, whose approval rating upon leaving office was just 22 percent, always understood that "judgments are a little more measured" with the passage of time. He added that Americans "can tell a decent, goodhearted stand up guy when they see him."

Cheney lauded Mr. Bush as a president who refused "to put on airs," stating that he was thrilled to find that the most powerful person he knew was "among the least pretentious." He said Mr. Bush was someone who could "walk with kings, yet keep the common touch," added that "there were no affectations about him at all - he treats everyone as an equal."

He spoke admiringly of Mr. Bush's actions in the wake of the Sept. 11th attacks, telling the former president that "because you were determined to throw back the enemy, we did not suffer another 9/11 or something even worse."

Cheney, who (unlike Mr. Bush) has been a vocal critic of President Obama, also took a shot at the current administration. Speaking of his expectation that construction would move quickly on the presidential center following the groundbreaking, Cheney quipped that "this may be the only shovel ready project in America." The reference was to the Obama-supported stimulus package that Republicans have criticized as ineffective.

Others blogging:
~~Cheney Takes Swipe At Obama During Groundbreaking Ceremony: “This May Be the Only Shovel Ready Project in America” (Video)
~~Video: Dick Cheney at Bush Library Groundbreaking Takes Good Natured Swipe at Obama

George W. Bush Coming to KC on November 22nd!

2010-11-16T01:56:00.005-06:00

While at the Condi Event, they announced that Bush was coming on November 22nd:

What: Former President George W. Bush will be in conversation with Vivien Jennings, Founder & President of Rainy Day Books, and discuss his new Book and his life. The program will last approximately one Hour.

When: Monday, November 22, 2010, 7:00 PM

Where: A Rainy Day Books Author Event at Unity Temple on The Plaza, Sanctuary, 707 W 47th Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64112

It was a good thing I bought my tickets right away, because it sold out yesterday. I purposely waited to buy a copy of his book hoping that he would come to KC, and the event includes an autographed copy of his book! Stay tuned for a post on the event!

Lunch with Condoleeza Rice!

2010-11-15T01:12:00.010-06:00

"Today's headlines and history's judgment are rarely the same."~~Condi Rice

I mentioned last week that I was going to the KMBZ Business Forum to hear Condi Rice speak. It was pouring down rain, and my friend and I narrowly avoided an 8 car pile up, but we arrived in time. I had to laugh when I saw 2 loony protesters standing in the rain, across the street, with their signs. So, I made their day by taking their picture.

The place was packed as you can see by my pictures. The interview was amazing and I was struck by the similarity between Rice and Antonin Scalia. Rice and Scalia are both such experts in their fields and extremely intelligent that you are surprised at how witty they are too. Rice told several, great stories that had everyone either laughing or clapping.

She began by saying that it was nice for her to start off her day by not having to read terrorist reports with her morning coffee anymore. Below are some of the questions she was asked and summaries of her answers. Neither the questions nor the answers are direct quotes.

How has race been an issue?
~~She said it hadn't been an issue as Secretary of State because no one wanted to make her mad :-). Yet, she did share a story from her school years of a counselor not expecting much of her. She quoted her former boss, Bush's phrase, "the soft bigotry of low expectations".

What was her response to the Bush/Kanye West incident?
~~She said that Bush cared deeply about minority children and that the incident was hurtful. She said that we have to be very careful how we talk about race because the conversation ends once you call someone a racist.

How do you stay so optimistic?
~~She mentioned that she is a minister's daughter and that her faith plays a big part in her optimism. She also makes sure she exercises and tries to take some time to rest.

How has religion played a role in your life?
~~She talked about how you can't really separate religion from her life, its just a part of who she is. Prayer is a huge part of it, her prayers and then she was often overwhelmed at how many people would tell her that they were praying for her.

Why have you decided not to criticize the current administration?
~~She said she figured they have enough people chirping at them and besides if she wants to give them advice she can call them instead of telling the NY Times (that got a lot of applause).

She talked about 9/11, Iran and Iraq and about encouraging young people to pursue what they are passionate about and love to do.

We also got autographed copies of her book, Extraordinary People, Ordinary People as part of the ticket price. It was a great time!

George W. Bush talks to Oprah and O'Reilly!

2010-11-12T00:06:00.000-06:00

To see the rest of the interview with Oprah, go here!

I love that Bush chose to use his book as a time to defend all the decisions he made. I'm also glad that while he seems to take most criticism in stride, he admits that being called a racist was beyond the pale. So many people seem so willing to play the "race card" and I find it disgusting.

As Bush says, this shows how awful the political discourse has gotten that if you don't agree with someone you think its okay to say some of the most hurtful and evil things.

Politik Ditto has the video of Kanye West apologizing to Bush over his hurtful comments about him regarding race. As GG says, it might be more impressive had it come much earlier.

Bush often didn't defend himself while President (when many of us wish he would've) and he hasn't criticized the current President (when many of us wish he would). Yet, he is a better man for it, and the chasm between him and Obama is deep. Since, Obama hasn't stopped blaming Bush for all the country's ills.

To see the rest of the interview with O'Reilly, go here!

"Fair Game" is the latest Liberal, Hollywood Propaganda Piece!

2010-11-11T00:51:00.003-06:00

When I saw the trailer for Fair Game at the movie theater, I was outraged. The trailer alone had blatant lies in it. As someone who paid close attention to the FACTS surrounding the "Valerie Plame/Joe Wilson" incident, I knew it wasn't true.

Yet, the truth never stops the liberals in Hollywood. Especially, Sean Penn, who seems to star in every propaganda film that comes out.

My main concern is that people who don't know the facts, will watch this and think this is really how things went down.

George W. Bush talks to Rush, Hannity and Lauer about his book, "Decision Points"!

2010-11-10T01:38:00.007-06:00

For more of the Hannity interview, go here!

Democracy is a beautiful thing!~~George W. Bush's response to last Tuesday's election results

I love this man!!! What an awesome response in the above quote. I am thoroughly enjoying all of the interviews Bush is doing for his book, Decision Points. It reminds me how much I miss having a real man in the White House.

I am hoping he comes to KC on his book tour. I am looking forward to getting my copy of Decision Points soon.

For more of the Lauer interview, go here!

A Review of "Attack on Darfur"!

2010-11-09T00:53:00.004-06:00

Darfur is an issue that I continue to care about. I watched the movie, Attack on Darfur over the weekend. It was a difficult, but important movie to see.

As I watched the Janjaweed rape and murder the innocent villagers, I could hardly comprehend how there could be such evil people in the world. People need to have their eyes opened to the genocide that is going on over there.

While, I wouldn't recommend this movie for children, I think its important that people watch it, so more can be done for the people of Darfur! Yet, I would caution that many of the scenes are obviously pretty disturbing

To learn more about what is going on in Darfur and how you can help, go here!

Previously:
Genocide in Darfur
President Bush Fed Up With UN's Lack of Action on Darfur
Against Darfur Genocide

Other Links:
Save Darfur Coalition

Missouri Community Creates a Human Shield at Soldier's Funeral from Westboro Cult!

2010-11-08T01:35:00.004-06:00

Finally, someone comes up with a way to stop the vile Phelp's cult from disrupting a soldier's funeral. A Missouri community created a human shield of patriotic protection against the Westboro cult.

Members of the community showed up early, they took all of the parking spots and all of the protesting area. They also, brought a huge flag to block all of the Westboro signs.

It worked and the hatemongers left. I think we've just seen the model on how to take out the Cult from protesting at any more funerals.

God Bless the residents of Weston, Missouri!!!

Condi Rice Comes to Kansas City!

2010-11-07T00:22:00.000-05:00

KMBZ Business Forum 2010 Featuring Condoleezza Rice
November 12th 2010 11:30 am to 1:30 pm
Marriott Muehlebach Tower

If you still want tickets, go here!

A friend and I are going, and I'm looking forward to it. Stay tuned for a complete report on the event!!

The Right, All Along: The Rise, Fall & Future of Conservatism

2010-11-06T00:39:00.000-05:00

Fox News is doing a six part special on the Conservative Movement. Brit Hume is the host and it looks great. I have them set up on my DVR.

Friday Smorgasbord!!

2010-11-05T13:47:00.002-05:00

~~Keith Olbermann is sent packing, temporarily or permanently?? Rush brought up that he can't be the 1st MSNBC employee to give to Democrat campaigns. Yet, MSNBC may be looking for a way to dump him for his dismal ratings. Olbermann is one of the most vile men on TV. The hateful and cruel things he has said on the air never cease to amaze me. I can guarantee you very few people will miss his presence, if his suspension is made permanent.

~~GOP House and Senate Leaders Vow Votes on Health Care Repeal, Tax Cuts and Lower Spending! Mike did an excellent post on the fact that this is the "biggest GOP nationwide non-presidential victory in over 70 years!" He is encouraged as I am by the language coming from the leadership of the Republicans. He has Boehner's interview with Bret Baier where Boehner says, "I am not going to compromise on my principles nor am I going to compromise the will of the American people."

~~Sarah Palin and Newly Elected Friends Take a Victory Lap

~~Obama in Denial! I am constantly amazed at how arrogant this president is, he seems to have no concept of reality. I still remember how defiant he was in his State of the Union Address after Scott Brown won in Massachusetts.

I would argue that had he been a little more humble and a little less bent on his hard core liberal agenda, the Republican victory might not have been so big on Tuesday. I predicted in my comments to Dave Helling of the KC Star that we would clean house in November, and that we did.

Obama can keep being arrogant and he can keep pushing his far left agenda. But if he does, not only does the country suffer, but he will find it extremely hard to get re-elected come 2012.

More 2010 Election Stuff!

2010-11-04T01:59:00.002-05:00

~~27 GOP Women Elected to Congress And Governorships

~~GOP Senate Leader McConnell Will Push to Repeal Health Care Monstrosity

~~Republicans Return A$$ to Its Rightful Owner

~~Fox News Offered More Balanced Election Coverage than MSNBC

~~Election 2010 wrap up

2010 Election Victories!

2010-11-03T00:34:00.000-05:00

"I think we’re going to do a great deal better than anyone gives us credit for. I do not see this grand debacle."
~~Joe Bite-Me back in July commenting on the November election

Obama Agenda is Dead, He Tried a 2-Year Experiment in Hyper-Liberalism and the Country Has said No!~~Charles Krauthammer

Democrats Can Get on the Train, but it's Headed in a Different Direction!~~Sarah Palin

Oh, what a difference 4 years can make!! 2006 was a gloomy night for Republicans, but last night was a very exciting one!

I worked all day yesterday as Poll Challenger for the Roy Blunt Campaign. One guy walked in all depressed, saying that his party was going to lose and he wasn't sure why he was wasting his time voting. I would bet money that guy was voting Democrat. The polling place also had double the turnout they normally have. A lot of voters turned out to have their say yesterday.

The races that had me cheering out loud last night:

~~Roy Blunt won Kit Bond's old U.S. Senate seat against Robin Carnahan! I obviously was excited about this race because I worked on his campaign, and he is a great guy.

~~Vicky Hartzler beats Ike Skelton for the 4th District Missouri House seat. I also made calls for Hartzler. I had one woman emphatically tell me there was no way Hartzler could beat Skelton. I would love to talk with her now.

~~Pat Toomey should've had this U.S. Senate seat 6 years ago in 2004. He was thrown under the bus for Arlen Specter. Yet, finally last night he won the Pennsylvania seat! It was a long time coming, but its here, and I'm a happy camper.

~~Ron Johnson boots Feingold out of the U.S. Senate seat in Wisconsin. I grew up in Wisconsin and I never thought I'd see the day that Feingold was sent packing. A mini-miracle and a great thing for those who live in Wisconsin.

~~Republican Mark Kirk wins Obama's old U.S. Senate seat in Illinois! Ouch, that has to hurt.

~~John Kasich wins the Ohio Governor's race. I've been a big fan of Kasich for quite awhile, so I was very happy to see him win this race.

~~Marcio Rubio wins the Florida Senate Race. I was extremely pleased to see this after the back room dealings between Crist and Meek.

Bummers!

~~Jerry Brown beat Meg Whitman in California, and I would've really liked to see Harry Reid get kicked to the curb.

William Norris wins the Clay County Auditor's race despite all of his ethical issues.

Other Celebrations:

~~Nancy Pelosi got fired, welcome Speaker John Boehner!!

~~My blog got an incredible amount of traffic this past week. The day before the election there were 3,800 hits and another 3,400 on election day.

November 2nd Sample Ballot for Clay County, Missouri!

2010-11-02T00:01:00.000-05:00

Dee's Sample Ballot

For U.S. Senator~~Roy Blunt(R)

For State Auditor~~Tom Schweich(R)

For U.S. Representative~~Sam Graves(R)

For State Representative~~Matthew Thompson(R)

For County Clerk~~Sheri Chapman(R)

For County Auditor~~Sheila Ernzen(D)

For County Collector~~Lydia McEvoy(R)

JUDGES

Missouri Supreme Court Judge~~Zel Fischer~~YES

Judge Victor C. Howard~~NO

Judge James Edward Welsh~~YES

Judge Alok Ahuja~~NO (UPDATED)

Judge Mark D. Pfeiffer~~NO

Judge Karen Mitchell~~NO

Judge Shane T. Alexander~~YES

Judge K.Elizabeth Davis~~NO

Judge David P. Chamberlain~~YES

Judge Don Norris~~NO
(For more info go here and even more detailed info, go here)

BALLOT INITIATIVES

Constitutional Amendment No.1~~Vote Yes

Constitutional Amendment No.2~~Vote Yes

Constitutional Amendment No.3~~Vote Yes

Proposition A~~Vote Yes

Proposition B~~Vote NO
(For more info, go here)

Previous Election Posts:
--Five Missouri Ballot Questions for the November 2, 2010 Election!
--Clay County Republican Central Committee Says No to William Norris!
--Missouri Judges on November 2nd Clay County Ballot!

Related Links:
--ClayCoMoPolitics November 2nd Recommendations
--Missouri Family Network on Judges

2010 Election Thoughts...

2010-11-01T23:31:00.000-05:00

~~My Favorite Quote of the 2010 Election Season--

I never asked for President Obama's endorsement. He can take his endorsement and really shove it as far as I'm concerned.--Frank Caprio (Democrat Candidate for Governor of RI)

~~President Obama on Jon Stewart saying he was to credit for the U.S. avoiding the second Great Depression. Seriously??? Come on!!! As one commentator said, the bad thing was that Stewart's audience wasn't laughing with Obama, they were laughing at him.

~~George Clooney finally gives me a reason to cheer for him!! I loved Clooney on ER and he is nice to look at in movies.

Yet, every time he opens his mouth about politics I groan. So it was awesome to see him speak the truth about how Republicans do care about his cause, "Darfur". I am one of those Republicans. He was declared a Patriot for defending Republicans to Bill Maher on Maher's show, by O'Reilly viewers, and in this instance, I would have to agree.

~~Charlie Crist appears to have no core principles! I never liked him when he buddied up to McCain in the primaries. I like him even less as he kisses up to Democrats just to stay in power.

~~I'm not a Michael Steele Fan! Bret Baier interviewed the heads of both the DNC and the RNC last week on his show. I could barely stand to listen to Steele act like he is the reason Republicans are going to gain seats. I hate to break it to you buddy, but we would be picking up MORE seats if we had replaced you months ago--ugh....

Christians have a Responsibility to Vote!

2010-10-29T00:49:00.004-05:00

As I have mentioned many times, I am a huge fan of Dave Barton and his organization Wall Builders. He has done extensive study on the founding fathers and their godly heritage by reading their own writings.

Since, he is such an expert on our history he continually emphasizes the importance of Christians being involved in our culture and in the political process.

The Importance of Voting and Christian Involvement in the Political Arena is a compilation of quotes from different founding fathers. It is worth reading and make sure to watch the above video.

More on Missouri's Proposition B!

2010-10-28T00:16:00.000-05:00

Nancy Kraus Womack has done extensive research on Proposition B and has written a two part series.

Prop B: Protecting Puppies or Robbing Us of Our Freedom?

Part 1: World's Collide Or The Futile Effort to Have a Reasonable Argument With The Animals Rights Proponents
An excerpt:

As to the issue at hand, The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) is an animal RIGHTS organization behind the Missouri ballot initiative known as Proposition B---the puppy mill initiative. Why, who would be opposed to saving the puppies, you ask? Well, not me-----if I believed for one second Prop B was really about the welfare of dogs. Problem: this is NOT about animal welfare at all! This is about ultimately controlling the agriculture industry and once again, limiting the freedoms of the citizens of this State and this country.

Prop B - Part II: The Money Trail, The Players and Their Strategies
An excerpt:

The so called ‘Humane’ Society of the United States is anything but ‘Humane’. It is deception and deception that abuses the emotions and VOTE of every kind hearted, animal loving citizen of Missouri. The Humane Society of the United States has pumped over $2 MILLION $$$ from sources outside Missouri into this ballot initiative Proposition B. They want this bad and the HSUS purposely targets States like Missouri that use the ballot initiative in order to bypass the legislature. It is much easier to use emotion to gather signatures on a petition and get their issues on the ballot. Wayne Pacelle, Pres. of HSUS, calls such initiatives targeting dog breeders, second tier or ‘low hanging fruit’. It will set the stage for his first tier agenda which includes ‘factory’ farming and an end to hunting.

Crazy? It is Pacelle’s own words. We'll get to that in a minute.

This PROP. is supposedly about shutting down ‘puppy mills’. It will do nothing of the sort. The Animal Care Facilities Act (ACFA) 1992 is the law on the books. The state of Missouri is grossly underfunded and understaffed. There are only 8-12 inspectors at any given time to inspect 1600+ breeding facilities and another 1200+ non breeding facilities. Where is the call for funding in Prop. B to inspect and enforce anything? There is NONE.

Missouri Judges on November 2nd Clay County Ballot!

2010-10-26T00:25:00.005-05:00

If the Judge has been appointed by a Republican, they get a yes vote, and a Dem, a no vote. This is a updated change from what I had in my earlier post. These were also confirmed by Missouri Family Network's research which were all the same except for one Judge, which I changed.

Below are my recommendations for judges for Clay County. To find more detailed info on them and other Missouri Judges, contact Front Line by calling (1-636-386-1789) or see Missouri Family Network's detailed research.

Judge Zel Fischer-- YES Updated--was contacted by someone who personally knows him to be a strong conservative

Judge Victor Howard-- NO

Judge James Edward Welsh-- Vote YES

Judge Alok Ahuja-- NO

Judge Mark D. Pfeiffer-- NO

Judge Karen Mitchell-- Vote NO

Judge Shane T. Alexander-- Vote YES

Judge K. Elizabeth Davis-- Vote NO (even though appointed by Rep)

Judge David P. Chamberlain-- Vote YES

Judge Don Norris-- NO

Also, there are TWO Republicans that I won't be voting for on November 2nd! William Norris and Jay Lawson both have issues that prevent me from voting for them.

I will be voting for Norris's opponent, Democrat Sheila Ernzen. She will be the first Democrat I have voted for since 1996. I refuse to vote for someone who "claims to be" a Republican that has restraining orders out against him.

As for Jay Lawson, he keeps switching parties so its hard to tell whether he is a Democrat or a Republican. A party switcher doesn't instill confidence in me, so I won't be voting for Lawson.

Previous Election posts:
--Five Missouri Ballot Questions for the November 2, 2010 Election!
--Clay County Republican Central Committee Says No to William Norris!

Women in the Civil War!

2010-10-21T01:11:00.000-05:00

As I've mentioned, I've been studying the Civil War with my son for school. I'm now doing further research for my own personal study. Imagine my delight when I found out how many books there are on the role women played in the Civil War.

Above are just some of the books I've checked out from the library. I've already read, Women at the Front and I'll Pass for Your Comrade.

It is amazing what so many women dared to do that was considered "unladylike" and "scandalous" behavior. Women were nurses, some out on battlefields with bullet holes in their dresses, as proof of their courage. Women were spies on both the north and the south side when it was an offense punishable by hanging. Women took over all duties at their homesteads when their men went off to fight. Somehow, they managed to run farms and businesses all while doing their 24/7 duties that they already had, including raising large families on their own.

Yet, last but not least, over 400 women disguised themselves as men so they could actually fight as soldiers on the battlefield.

I hope to do some individual reviews of the books and maybe profiles of some of the amazing women!!

Clay County Republican Central Committee Says No to William Norris!

2010-10-13T00:01:00.003-05:00

The August 3rd Republican Primary gave voters a choice for Clay County Auditor. As even the KC Star pointed out, Jay Jones was well qualified while there were all kinds of questions about his opponent, William James Norris. Norris claimed to be a CPA and a graduate of William Jewel. Yet, several newspapers looked into these claims and found no record of them. Norris gave some weak excuses which were looked into, and were found wanting.

As if this wasn't enough, there were other ethical issues that were of concern. Several protection orders were taken out against William James Norris and are public record at www.courts.mo.gov/casenet. Yet, somehow, Norris ended up winning the Republican primary. This put Republicans in an awkward position. Did they want to support a candidate that appears to have some serious ethical issues?

The Clay County Republican Central Committee took a vote last night that they will NOT ENDORSE William Norris. A Press Release will be coming out shortly to that effect.

Also at the meeting:
ClayCoMoPolitics

Five Missouri Ballot Questions for the November 2, 2010 Election!

2010-10-11T00:32:00.003-05:00

Some of the most important items on ballots can often be propositions and amendments. Yet, often the wording on them is purposely misleading to try and pass things that the American people wouldn't support.

Missouri Family Network always does an excellent job on doing their homework for elections. Below are their endorsements, for more details, go here!

MISSOURI FAMILY NETWORK'S RECOMMENDATIONS

2010 General Election, November 2, 2010
Five Statewide Ballot Questions

Constitutional Amendment 1 - Vote “YES”, hold county assessors accountable!

Constitutional Amendment 2 - Vote “YES”, to support disabled former POWs!

Constitutional Amendment 3 - Vote “YES”, prohibit sales taxes on your home!

Proposition A - Vote “YES”, limit your local government income taxes!

Proposition B - B is Bad! - Vote “NO”, stop animal rights extremism!

For more information on Prop B see the special Metrovoice articles exposing HSUS.

You may also visit The Alliance for Truth at www.thealliancefortruth.com
and/or Missourians for Animal Care at www.missourifac.com.

A Cartoon is worth a thousand words!

2010-10-08T02:12:00.003-05:00

Studying The Civil War!

2010-10-07T00:09:00.000-05:00

I am studying the Civil War with my youngest son and I am loving it. National Geographic's Atlas of the Civil War is an excellent, comprehensive book that covers every detail of the Civil War. It has excellent time lines for each year of the war.

The Civil War documentary by Ken Burns is wonderful. If you haven't seen it, I highly recommend it. I had numerous people recommend it to me and it is regarded as one of the best documentaries of all time.

Fields of Fury does a great job of highlighting the important battles and people of the Civil War.

The Civil War for Kids was one of several craft books that I got to do activities with my son. One of the things we are doing is making a Civil War alphabet book.

The Long Road to Gettysburg is an audio book telling about the events leading up to Gettysburg through the eyes of a Confederate and a Union soldier.

Ronald Reagan's Faith!

2010-10-06T00:04:00.001-05:00

I just finished listening to Hand of Providence (The Strong and Quiet Faith of Ronald Reagan) by Mary Beth Brown. I can't say enough good things about it. I learned so much about Ronald Reagan's life and his faith.

The Cd version is great because it includes speeches that were made by those that were at Reagan's funeral. I especially loved the speeches by George W. Bush and Margaret Thatcher.

Yet, most of all I was amazed at what a personal and genuine faith that Reagan had that so many people, including myself, weren't aware of. Reagan's Mother was a strong Christian and an optimist, his Dad was an alcoholic and a pessimist. It isn't hard to see who Reagan chose to emulate.

As I listened, it reminded me once again how much I want to be an optimist like Ronald Reagan and Tony Snow. They both chose to be immersed in politics and yet, refused to become jaded.

Hand of Providence was so good that I am now inspired to read another book on Reagan's faith, God and Ronald Reagan. Stay tuned for a review in the future.

Related posts:
Why I Love Ronald Reagan~~Part 1
Why I love Ronald Reagan~~Part 2
Why I love Ronald Reagan~~Part 3

A Loving Mother Smothers her Disabled Child???

2010-10-05T00:22:00.003-05:00

Hat tip: ClayCOMOPolitics

Wow!!! Virginia Ironside was a guest on a talk show talking about whether abortion was an act of kindness. Here is what she had to say:

‘If a baby’s going to be born severely disabled or totally unwanted, surely an abortion is the act of a loving mother.’

She added: ‘If I were the mother of a suffering child – I mean a deeply suffering child – I would be the first to want to put a pillow over its face… If it was a child I really loved, who was in agony, I think any good mother would.’

If you watch the video above you can see how shocked and horrified Reverend Joanna Jepson is, who was the other guest on the show.

Another guest on the show, GP Peter Evans, of the Christian Medical Fellowship, said:

'For us to make judgments that people are not worth life, not worth the opportunity to live, is a very dangerous thing.'

As could be expected, "Disability rights advocates called her pro-eugenics approach “despicable.” I could think of more colorful words, but I'll refrain. Thank goodness most people are still shocked and outraged by this. My fear is that some day the liberal, pro-death movement will have made such an impact, that people will no longer be outraged.

Hot Air has more on other sickening comments that Ironside has made in the past, and they also cite how unfortunately, she is not alone in her morally bankrupt way of thinking.

Fire Nancy Pelosi!

2010-10-04T23:43:00.006-05:00

I was in charge of our Republican booth this past weekend at a festival in our area. We gave out Roy Blunt Yard signs, bumper stickers and other materials for local Republican candidates. Blunt's opponent, Robin Carnahan has been running some deceptive ads, so we had a truth check sheet.

Yet, by far, the most popular item we gave away was the "Fire Pelosi" stickers. The Fire Pelosi Bus Tour is making the rounds and resonating with Americans. Meanwhile, Pelosi is punishing members of her own party that dare to criticize her.

Its going to be a very interesting election come November! The polls show that its very possible that Republicans could take back both the House and the Senate. Make sure you are helping support your Republican candidates!! Don't forget Mike's Top 10 Senate Races, he has recently revised it!!

As the Election Turns!--Barney Frank, Barbara Boxer and Feingold may all be unemployed come November!

2010-09-29T00:08:00.007-05:00

Sean Hannity has been having a segment on his show called, Meet the Candidates. Yesterday, he talked to two excellent candidates running for office in November. The first was Ryan Frazier who is running for a House seat in Congress from the 7th District in Colorado.

I was really impressed with him. If you are from Colorado, sign up to help on his campaign.

The second was Sean Bielat who is running against Barney Frank. He actually has a chance to unseat Frank in Massachusetts.

These elections this fall are astounding when you consider that there is a possibility of unseating the likes of Barney Frank, Barbara Boxer and Russ Feingold. It is amazing what getting the American people involved in their government can do ;-)!

Also, Jim Hoft loves Sean Hannity, and of course, so do I! How can you not?

Republicans are Kicking Butt in the Polls!!

2010-09-22T00:23:00.003-05:00

Energy...Excitement...Passion...

Conservatives, especially Tea Party Conservatives are fired up and motivated to make a difference this November! The polls are reflecting that.

Take a look:

West Virginia~~West Virginia Governor Jim Manchin trailing Republican John Raese 46 percent to 43 percent

California~~Boxer is up by just one point on Carly Fiorina, 47 percent to 46 percent.

Wisconsin~~Ron Johnson is leading three-term Wisconsin Democratic Sen. Russ Feingold 52 percent to 41 percent

Nevada~~The latest Fox News poll shows Sharron Angle leading Harry Reid by a point, 46 percent to 45 percent.

Pennsylvania~~According to Fox, Pat Toomey leads Joe Sestak by eight points, 48 percent to 40 percent -- his exact lead in the RCP Average.

Alaska~~Rasmussen Reports finds Joe Miller with 42 percent of the vote, to Murkowski's 27 percent and Sitka Mayor Scott McAdams' 25 percent.