The Day America
Welcomed Annie
Immigration....a topic that many are concerned with as we continue through the 21st century...a topic that has concerned those in the past as well...
...but without immigration....our nation could never have achieved the heights it has over the years.
After all, we are...
The history of the United States would mean little without those who made it the great place it is....and over the centuries, from the days of Columbus to the modern world we now live in, those who chose to journey from other lands across oceans and continents...to search out a better life... now...proudly say...
And they came for many reasons that included economic security and religious freedom....
...almost all of which built America into the powerful nation that exists today.
There were the pilgrims....a group of British separatists unable to follow the Church of England as their chosen faith....
...first relocating to Holland for religious tolerance, experiencing further discrimination in that country, and subsequently journeying across the Atlantic Ocean, landing at Plymouth Rock to establish the Massachusetts colony in 1620.
...and what they brought with them to establish the beginning of our nation....drafting the Mayflower Compact while at sea...which promised freedom of religion to all who would be members of their community.
The Mayflower Compact
There were the Germans....15,000 to 20,000 of them...who were brought to the American shores to support the British during the Revolutionary War....12,000 of which remained in America after being defeated as "Hessians" by George Washington at the Battle of Trenton in 1776.
They would originally settle in areas of New York and Pennsylvania, and eventually to what we now call the Midwest.
Why did the Germans come...and...stay?
Land...there were no German colonies in the Americas, and there was little land to be had in Germanic Europe...but there was plenty to be had in America.
There were the Scots-Irish....an estimated 250,000...who settled in America during the early colonial period...most of which were descendents of poor tenant farmers...
...originally settling mainly in the Appalachian Mountains...Irish Catholics eventually populating the northern cities of Boston, Philadelphia and eventually to Chicago...while many Irish Protestants migrated south through Virginia into Tennessee, and Kentucky and eventually Arkansas, Missouri and Texas.
The Great Potato famine in Ireland in 1845 would also dramatically increase Irish immigration to the United States.
Of course one of the earliest immigrant...and...saddest moments in our past is the "involuntary" immigrant..the Afro-American slave....about which an entire southern economy was based.
As years passed, there were the Chinese...suffering political oppression in their native country...who perhaps experienced the most difficult migration.
They were "different" from the overwhelming number of Europeans who had preceded them...they "looked different"...and their heritage and customs were "different"...and as a result, many arrived in the 1850s taking low-skilled jobs as manual laborers in mining, construction, agriculture, manufacturing, and service industries.
...but without those people, modern transportation would not have been possible....the Chinese were responsible for the construction of the Transcontinental Railroad constructed between 1863 and 1869.
There were the Jews...originally settling in the American colonies during the colonial period...but a mass migration to the United States from Russia and other eastern European countries in the early 1880s resulted from the "pogroms"...the religious persecution that has since been made well known in the film, "Fiddler on the Roof".
In the 1870s and continuing into the early 1900s, there were the Italians from Sicily and Southern Italy who would enter the United States, most of which had agricultural backgrounds.
As more and more immigrants would arrive on the American shores...that would also mean LESS JOBS for those who already were American citizens...and...as a result...
Immigration restrictions would commence in earnest with a number of laws passed to reduce their numbers.
There was the Page Act in 1875, which prohibited the entry of immigrants considered "undesirable"...
and...classified as "undesirable" were ANY ASIAN who was coming to America to be a forced laborer, any ASIAN woman who would engage in prostitution, and all people considered to be convicts in their own country".
That was followed by the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882...halting all LEGAL immigration of Chinese laborers.
In the same year there was the Immigration Act of 1882...which would LIMIT immigration from a certain country or region who were deemed as "undesirable"...creating a federal agency to enforce the law.
Those laws were quickly continued until 1890 when the federal government assumed full control of immigration....
...and as a result of that control...an institution needed to be constructed to properly screen those who would enter the United States.
On April 18, 1890 the US Congress appropriated $75,000 to construct America's first immigration station near New York...and called it...
Ellis Island
...AND...on January 1, 1892...it opened !
On that day, three large ships would dock with 700 immigrant passengers as they passed through New York's harbor glancing at the Statue of Liberty and the immortal words of the poet Emma Lazaras...
" Not like the brazen giant of Greek fame, with conquering limbs astride from land to land; here at our sea-washed, sunset gates shall stand a mighty woman with a torch, whose flame is the imprisoned lightning, and her name Mother of Exiles. From her beacon-hand glows world-wide welcome; her mild eyes command the air-bridged harbor that twin cities frame."
"Keep ancient lands, your storied pomp!" cries she with silent lips."
"Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, the wretched refuse of our teeming shore. Send these, the homeless , tempest-tossed to me, I lift this lamp behind the golden door!"
...the first of which was a young girl who had celebrated her 15th birthday on the very day her shipped arrived from Ireland in New York harbor....
She would be the first immigrant to pass through that historic site.
The name of that Irish immigrant...
Annie Moore
On that historic day, the ship's ramp was lowered and as she was "tripping" down the walkway, a man in a uniform with a walrus mustache handed her a $10 gold piece.
She looked at him, asking him "For what"?
He answered her...."because you're the first".
That would be commemorated at both the starting point of her voyage in Cobh, Ireland...gazing back at her beloved Ireland for the last time with her two younger brothers...on December 20, 1891...boarding the S.S. Nevada....
...and her arrival at Ellis Island in the evening of December 31, 1891...
...as she stared at her new home in America joining her parents who had migrated to America four years earlier.
Years later in 2001 that experience would be put to music in a song entitled "Isle of Hope, Isle of Tears" written by Brendan Graham (the man who also wrote the Josh Groban's hit "You Raise Me Up") and recorded by both Celtic Woman and The Irish Tenors....
...and rather than choose one...here are both versions of that touching song that describe the Irish immigrant experience.
Imagine for a moment...you're leaving your home knowing you will likely never see it again...and enter a harbor seeing a huge unfamiliar city behind it...
...that you would now call "home"...
The Irish Tenors
Celtic Woman
Annie and her brothers would be the first of 450,000 immigrants to process through Ellis Island in 1892.
She would live her brief life in New York dying on December 6, 1924, at the young age of just 44 years...of heart failure...after having delivered 11 children.
Annie Moore
She was buried in an unmarked grave until in 2006 her resting place was eventually discovered.
On October 11, 2008 an official dedication ceremony was held...and 84 years after her death...this marker was finally placed over her grave.
In the 62 years of its existence, Ellis Island welcomed 12,000,000 people before it was officially closed on November 12, 1954....
...and a number of them left indelible marks on American history....some of which included:
Irving Berlin...Charlie Chaplin...Max Factor...Samuel Goldwyn....Bob Hope...Al Jolson...Knute Rockne...Julie Styne...Gus Kahn...Rudolph Valentino...the von Trapp Family...Arthur Murray...Frank Capra...Charles Atlas...Father Flanagan of Boystown...
... and the person who gave me life.....
My Mom
"Rose"
...who arrived with her mother and older sister, Mary, on the SS Warren G. Harding in August, 1929.
Her birthday: July 4th....1921 ! She left us in 2003, but in her entire life, was always proud to be a "Yankee Doodle Dandy"
Dick Arendt
______________________________
Vegas Vickie
Leaving Fremont Street
She was originally called "Sassie Sally" when she was first installed in 1980, atop closed "Glitter Gulch" gentleman's club and later renamed "Vegas Vickie".
Fremont Street 1980
...and in my youth, when I made my semi-annual trek to Las Vegas from Chicago "with the boys", a number of us would often pay her a visit.
As the years passed and Fremont Street rapidly changed, somehow I would still find myself drawn downtown to see the classic signs and lights associated with a bygone era, and thoughts would be rekindled to "days of yore" when you were able to place a $2 bet on gaming table...
...or when casinos used quarter chips?
The cocktail waitresses were always there when you needed one, and best of all, you could sit in front of a nickel slot machine for hours with only a twenty dollar bill in your wallet to keep you going for the evening.
While many tourists would spend their hard earned cash seeing Wayne Newton at a dinner show, "the boys" would often venture to the place where the fun really existed....
Downtown
How many of you can remember those days?
There was a certain "odor" that was evident wherever you went...
...and to be honest...back then...
...it smelled GREAT ! It smelled "Vegas"
...it smelled GREAT ! It smelled "Vegas"
Need a pack of "smokes"? Just wait for the "cigarette girl" to pop by and ask her for one.
Hungry?
Your choice was either asking the pit boss for a comp, or waiting between 11:00pm and 5:00am for the 99 cents STEAK & EGGS breakfast special every place seemed to offer.
There were no "club cards" for points.
Instead, there was courtesy; there was generosity; and when you saw the classic signs, you felt welcomed.
...and... most of all, you felt SAFE as you went from casino to casino...
...while "Vegas Vickie" and her husband...yes, husband...
Vegas Vic
...watched over you.
They even got married during the reconstruction of Fremont Street.
Well, "Vegas Vic" sadly will be saying goodbye to his bride on June 12th and no decision has been made as to where "Vegas Vickie" will soon reside.
Let's hope that she ends up at the Neon Museum or what locals refer to as "The Boneyard" in the very near future among the other relics that visually describe the history of "The Entertainment Capital of the World"...
...in a special place overlooking Fremont Street, while she waits for her husband to join her.
Dick Arendt
The Angel of the Battlefield
She must have been "special"...after all, she was born on Christmas Day...in 1821...
...but "special" doesn't go far enough in looking at one of the most fascinating women in American history.
Extraordinary....would be a much more accurate description of her.
She was a timid child...so "shy" that her parents had to actually remove her from school as a child. She just didn't seem to "fit in" with the other kids.
...but...she was smart...so smart that she learned how to read at the age of only three.
...and she had one other strong trait that would characterize the remainder of her life...
She had a passion to help people.
She had a passion to help people.
That "passion" began when her parents relocated to a farm when she was age five, owned by her father's nephew whose death resulted from a tragic accident, leaving a widow and four children.
She enjoyed playing with her male cousins and as time passed, became what we now refer to as a "tomboy", "keeping up" quite well with the boys as they worked the farm.
There was nothing she couldn't do...that the boys could, leading her "to do her part" no matter what the task...painting, repairing, etc.
Then another tragedy occurred...her brother was so severely injured falling from the top of a barn that doctors were convinced he would not survive...
...an injury where his 10 year old sister would remain at his side for months, "nursing" him back to health while becoming familiar with prescribed medications and other medical treatments of that era...until he made a complete recovery.
Helping people was now "in her blood" and as she entered adulthood, in 1838 she taught school in Canada and Georgia....becoming well known for being able to handle "rambunctious" children...particularly boys (probably due to her childhood).
From there, she opened a free school in New Jersey, starting with six children which grew to over 600...an increase so substantial the school officials came to the conclusion it needed a principal.
What did the school officials decide?
A man was hired at twice the salary she was being paid !
She, who had founded the school and was managing it...was bypassed for one reason...she was a woman !
She left that school in 1855 due to the frustration of being considered "inferior" due to her gender, and relocated to Washington, DC where she became employed as a clerk in the US Patent Office...
..becoming the first woman to receive a substantial clerkship in the federal government...
...at an income EQUAL to men !
(a sum that was twice the amount paid to the MAN who was chosen to run the school she had originally founded in 1838)
...but the time for women had not yet "arrived"...
... government work was for MEN...and during her tenure at the Patent Office, her duties were steadily reduced to that of an "assistant copy clerk" until President James Buchanan decided to completely eliminate the position upon his election is 1856.
Distraught over this discrimination, she returned to her family in Massachusetts until in 1861, the Lincoln administration reinstated the position and once again hired her as an "assistant copy clerk".
She took the job hoping she in some way, could "open the door" to women in government.
...but 1861 brought war...war between the states, and at her father's insistence and her passion for helping others, she thought it was her duty "as a Christian" to help soldiers by gathering food, medical supplies, bandages, and blankets to assist those wounded in battle.
That "passion" grew until in 1862, she received permission to work in the front lines caring for the wounded.
There was nothing she refused to do for "the cause", including cleaning field hospitals, applying dressings, and serving food to the wounded.
As word spread of her fearless dedication at the battles of 2nd Bull Run, Antietam, and Fredericksburg, in 1864 she was eventually appointed as "the lady in charge" by General Benjamin Butler.
General Butler
Being fearless...among the many harrowing experiences she would face, was an incident in which a bullet tore through the sleeve of her dress without striking her....
...but killing the man she was tending for his wounds.
She would become known by the fighting men as a calming force during the heat of battle until one day a man gave her a nickname...a name she would be referred to for the remainder of her life....
"The Angel of the Battlefield"
When the war ended, her dedication to those brave men who served and were wounded during The Civil War would continue.
She ran "The Office of Missing Soldiers", dedicated to those missing in action. She and her staff would answer 60,000 letters inquiring as to the121,000 missing, even traveling to the Confederate prison at Andersonville, Georgia, the most horrific prisoner of war camp in the Civil War, where 13,000 Union soldiers would perish...
...installing grave markers to honor them, closing the office in 1868 and traveling to Europe where she would meet and become involved with two other famous Americans, Susan B. Anthony of Women's suffrage fame, and Frederick Douglass, a leader of Negro civil rights.
But her true mark in history came in 1869....when she traveled to Geneva, Switzerland where she would be introduced to another humanitarian movement...a cause that had been established just 6 years prior...
...where she would make a strong attempt to have the United States join this organization.
In 1870, Europe would go to war (Franco-Prussian War), and for the next two years, she would assist the European Red Cross efforts to care for the wounded.
The immediate result....America, afraid of involving itself in a foreign conflict and being so near their own Civil War, would not support joining the organization.
She could make no headway with American President, Rutherford B. Hayes...
...but as was always the case...when she believed in something...passion would prevail.
After all, nothing...even an American President...
...could stop....
"The Angel of the Battlefield"
So...rather than attempt to join the European organization, she became determined to begin her own in the United States !
Finally, after revising her thoughts to include not only war wounded, but also victims of earthquakes, forest fires, and hurricanes, President Chester Arthur ...
...approved "The American Red Cross" ...
...with her as the president of the society, holding its first official meeting on May 21, 1881.
During the Spanish-American War in 1898, the role of The Red Cross would once again change. It would now aid refugees in addition to others already being helped.
Her final act as the leader of the American Red Cross came in assisting the victims of the Galveston hurricane in 1900.
Now 83 years old...she was...REPLACED in 1904.
Was that the final hurrah of this amazing woman?
Not her....she then went on to found the National First Aid Society, finally retiring in 1907 at the age of 86.
Never "having the time" to marry, though admitting to an affair with a married officer during the Civil War, she would live to the age of 90, when on April 12, 1912, she would die after suffering for 2 years with tuberculosis...
...exactly 51 years to the day, the American Civil War commenced with the South's firing on Fort Sumter...
In 1948, the United States Postal Service honored her with a postal stamp.
She was....the amazing....
Clara Barton
Dick Arendt
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From Mary Jannell...to...Anthem Opinions
Enjoyed this very much Dick. Great read.
Did not know any of it, except her name. -
From Phillip Rosen...to...Anthem Opinions
Nice piece!! -
____________________________
From Mary Lee Duley...to...Anthem Opinions
Dick:
This is a fabulous editorial and wonderful reminder of what she accomplished!
Remembering the
Greatest Show on Earth
by
Norm Johnson
I don’t know about you, but I will miss the Circus.
And here’s why.
When I was a wee little boy growing up in South Los Angeles, my parents would always take me every summer to see the big circus in a huge tent. It was always located on this big empty lot in downtown L.A. near the train depot.
Yes, there were a lot of great big empty lots in downtown Los Angeles in the 1940s.
As I grew older, I couldn’t wait to catch the red-car by myself (a special trolley system that used to run all over Southern California until they replaced it with a bus system and more smaller, slower yellow electric trolleys) and go downtown, then walk for a few blocks to the huge empty lot, where the circus tents were being stretched out on the ground.
I would volunteer to help in the stretching, and anything else I could do.
I even remember (as I got older and the trainers would remember us) I got to help feed some of the animals. I would get a couple free tickets for my work.
I was about 10 or maybe 12 years old, and World War II was still going on.
But the circus and those beautiful animals came every year.
I was about 10 or maybe 12 years old, and World War II was still going on.
But the circus and those beautiful animals came every year.
The first circus I can remember was the Ringling Brothers and Barnum Bailey Circus.
The star of the center ring (circuses had three rings in the center of a huge tent), was Frank Buck, a famous tamer and hunter of big game.
He had a huge gorilla that was billed as “the most terrifying living creature” named "Gargantua the Great".
My gosh I was blown away at the size of the elephants also.
The ring master appeared to be huge too.
Everything seemed gigantic to my young eyes.
I sat in the bleachers with my grand-mother and watched those beautiful ladies ride white horses, elephants, and parade around the edge of the bleachers.
The clowns, oh how in the world did they fit into that little house they came out of?
Everything was just so fantastic to my eyes.
Clyde Beatty
Following the war another great circus owned by the world-famous lion tamer, Clyde Beatty, began coming to Los Angeles.
He would use the same lot used by all the traveling circuses, as it was near the railroad depot downtown.
The elephants, and horses would always parade from the train depot to the lot which was a big thing to watch—as a kid I would always try to be there for the parade and would run alongside as we headed for the lot.
So, during a regular year I would get to go see at least three circuses.
Eventually, like all of us youngsters at the time, the circus was not so important anymore.
I was in Junior High and had more important things to do, than go downtown for a couple of free tickets to the circus:
There were dances to go to, and movies were cheaper (10 cents on Saturday afternoon).
But the memory of getting dirty while stretching the tent, getting hosed down with cold water to wash the dust off my clothes (I learned to bring a pair of shorts and a t-shirt to change into before the work began), still resonates in my mind, and when I watched the news the other night, those wonderful moments during my youth came slowly back to me.
Those were experiences today’s kids will never know or see.
Those were experiences today’s kids will never know or see.
Gosh those were the really good old days!
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From Mike Vail...to...Anthem Opinions
Appropriate that a story about Barnum and Bailey is running just as the restaurant issue is coming up again. -
From Robert Nusser...to...Anthem Opinions
Memo to the SCA BOD: NO circus lasts forever.
-
Rosie
You Were Dad's Posie
It's Mother's Day...
...a day every person in the world needs to look carefully at the life they have, and realize...without that lady, none of what we have, could ever have beeen possible.
They not only gave us "life", but provided us a guide for a "lifestyle".
They not only gave us "life", but provided us a guide for a "lifestyle".
My mom...her name was "Rose"...or as my dad would call her..."Rosie"...
...a woman who lost her own mom when she was just 10 years old.
She was the one who was always there to define the words...
When you consider the senior age group we are all now a part of, the word "mom" took on an entire meaning for so many us.
We came from a generation where so many of our mothers didn't merely stay home, have children, and have dinner ready when dad would come home from work, but the times they lived in, altered their roles.
They survived a depression, many to evolve into "Rosie the Riveter" during World War II.
When the men went "marching off to war", our mothers were left behind to win a war on the home front.
They patiently waited for their husbands and boyfriends to make it home from a war that took them away not for merely a couple of years, but for "the duration"...in some cases four years..
....and in the saddest of cases, opened the front door to men in uniform, informing them that their loved one would never return.
Some of our moms were so courageous and patriotic, they even joined the Armed Forces....
...and when it was over, and "the boys" returned home, in so many cases, women were forced to return to the domestic life, despite proving they were every bit as qualified as their male counterparts.
They created us "baby boomers", bringing many of us up in the 50s.
Yes indeed, for so many of us, the creation of an invention called television, would make all us unofficial members of "the Anderson family"...
...The Nelsons...
...and Donna Reed's "Stone" family...
As the 60s rolled in, as we became teenagers, our moms had to go through another "transformation".
Many of those "boomer kids" would enter college, and that meant the family needed additional income to get them there.
And so, many RE-entered the workforce to "make it happen", allowing so many us...including myself and my brother...the opportunity to obtain a college degree.
Moms...their roles changed again...reverting back 18 to 20 years, only this time, to provide additional income for the family they protected.
But...as the 60s took their course, a certain aspect of history would repeat, and they would have to again, endure the results.
The tranquility of the 50s ceased, and suddenly turmoil would commence.
They were once again faced with the horrors of war...
...this time, either watching the children they so carefully nurtured, march off to a foreign Asian country called Viet Nam...
...or in many cases, join those who questioned "the why" as did many of their children while on college campuses.
They were no longer the "women behind the men"; now they were watching their children have minds of their own.
Roles were drastically changing, and...
Roles were drastically changing, and...
...perhaps the greatest shock, watching "Kitten from the Anderson family" where "Father Knew Best"...
become...
"I Am Woman, watch me roar, in numbers too big to ignore"
Well now, mom somehow watched us "boomers" survive the 60s and 70s, and as we entered the 80s, she even witnessed an actor become President of the United States, while us "boomers" would establish our careers and become parents ourselves.
And all along the way...mom was always there...
...from diapers, to putting the band aids on our "ouchies" after falling off that first bike, to making sure we got to school on time, attending those dreaded parent-teacher conferences, and being the best cheer leader at those little league games and / or piano or dance recitals...
...always providing balanced meals, and...
...supporting us all the way...(even after getting the spankings we deserved)....
...no matter how DUMB we were at times.
I wish my mom was still here to say "thanks" for surviving it all, and allowing me the opportunity to experience a lifestyle she never had, yet sacrificed everything, to make life a better experience for her two sons.
Love you mom.
Rosie...you really were "Dad's Posie"...
...and how lucky I've always been, cherishing the moments you gave to me, as...
My
To all the moms, Anthem Opinions wishes you a "thankful"...
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Got a story you'd like to tell us about your mom?
Send it to us at:
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From Linda Dawson...to...Anthem Opinions
Thank you Dick!😍 -
From Phillip Rosen of Glenview, IL...to...Anthem Opinions
Great piece!!
I'm a witness: Rosie was a dandy cook who loved making us lunch before Cubs games!!! -
Get Ready, Sun City Anthem, after 30 some years, one of my best friends, Phillip Rosen & his wife, Diane, are on their way to Sun City Anthem from Glenview, Illinois.
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From Robert Nusser...to...Anthem Opinions
Can sum it up in one sentence: 'Giving birth doesn't automatically make you a mother' -
From Cary Chubin of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida...to...Anthem Opinions
You get 5 stars on this one, Dick. -
From Marge McKee of Grayslake, IL...to...Anthem Opinions
Nice job, beautiful. -
From George Jacobs of Cleveland Ohio...to...Anthem Opinions
Thanks for the touching tribute.
-
_______________________________
Do you Know the Presidential
___________
Do you Know the Presidential
Line of Succession
?
Donald J. Trump
President
Michael R. Pence
Vice President
Paul D. Ryan, Jr.
(R-Wisconsin)
Speaker of the House of Representatives
Orrin G. Hatch
(R-Utah)
President Pro Tempore of the Senate
Rex W. Tillerson
Secretary of State
Steven T. Mnuchin
Secretary of the Treasury
James N. Mattis
Secretary of Defense
Jefferson B. Sessions
Attorney General
Ryan K. Zinke
Secretary of the Interior
George E. (Sonny) Perdue
Current nominee...not yet confirmed by US Senate)
Secretary of Agriculture
Wilbur L. Ross, Jr.
Secretary of Commerce
Rene A. (Alex) Acosta
Current Nominee...not yet confirmed by US Senate)
Secretary of Labor
Thomas E. Price
Secretary of Health & Human Services
Benjamin S. Carson, Jr.
Secretary of Housing & Urban Development
Elaine L. Chao
(not eligible for US Presidency due to not being a natural born US citizen)
Secretary of Transportation
James R. (Rick) Perry
Secretary of Energy
Elisabeth D. (Betsy) DeVos
Secretary of Education
David J. Shulkin
Secretary of Veteran Affairs
John F. Kelly
Secretary of Homeland Security___________
It's Been 100 Years
Since
The Yanks Went
"Over There"
I can remember my one grandfather telling me stories of "The War to End All Wars" or "The Great War" when he was drafted into the German army in 1915.
He was a carpenter, a man of peace, a man who had recently had his first daughter, and suddenly he was a soldier...a soldier who would eventually have his right thumb shot off and be prisoner of war in a Russian camp.
And there was the other "grandpa" who immigrated from Germany in the early 1900s to seek his fortune in "The Land of Opportunity" by entering Ellis Island on his journey to Hammond, Indiana and eventually to Chicago.
Both...had several things in common. They were of German descent; both would immigrate to the United States for a better life; and both lived through World War I...
...a conflict so horrible that it took 17 million lives, and 20 million casualties.
The United States would suffer 117,465 fatalities with an additional 204,000 wounded in action.
Civilian deaths from all nations would add an addition 2.5 million.
It was on April 6, 1917 that the United States Congress officially declared war on the German Empire following President Woodrow Wilson's April 2nd request at a joint session of Congress, saying it would be "a war to end war".
This tragic world conflict would commence on June 28, 1914 when Austrian Archduke Franz Ferdinand and his wife, Sophie...
...were assassinated by a Serbian zealot...
Gavrilo Pincip
Exactly one month later, war would break out over Europe, continuing until its conclusion on November 11, 1918.
The conflict would greatly heighten when, on May 7, 1915, the Cunard ocean liner, RMS Lusitania, was sunk by a German submarine without warning, killing 1,198 innocent lives of which 128 were American citizens.
Following the tragic event, Germany would cease submarine warfare.
...and by the end of 1915, the sides would be determined.
The Central Powers of Austria-Hungary, Bulgaria, Germany, and The Ottoman Empire
vs
The Allied Powers of Great Britain, France, Russia, Italy, Belgium, Serbia, Montenegro, and Japan
When war erupted in 1914, the United States made every attempt to remain neutral despite supporting the Allied Powers.
During the US presidential election, incumbent Woodrow Wilson ran on a platform of "he kept us out of war", though in 1916 he would begin to increase the size of the US military...especially the US Navy, issuing this warning to the German government.
"Unless the Imperial Government should now immediately declare and effect an abandonment of its present methods of submarine warfare against passenger and freight-carrying vessels, the Government of the United States can have no choice but to sever diplomatic relations with The German Empire altogether."
In early 1917, Germany's Ambassador Johann Berstorff announced that Germany would resume submarine warfare.
German Ambassador Johann Berstorff
In addition German Foreign Minister Arthur Zimmerman attempted to provoke Mexico and Japan into attacking the United States with the promise of German assistance after the European front was won.
Arthur Zimmermann
Following the British decoding that message, President Wilson felt compelled in his April 2, 1917 speech, to ask Congress for a Declaration of War as "an act of high principle and idealism...and...as a crusade to make the world safe for democracy."
America would join that fight, and our determination and sense of love of our fellow man would bring it to a halt within 17 months later.
And so, on April 6, 2017 we look back at the past...one hundred years...
...and see how little the world has changed.
There is no better way to describe that period of world carnage than the immortal poem written by Canadian physician, Lt. Colonel John MaCrae...
John MaCrae
...on May 3, 1915, as a tribute to a fellow soldier, Lt. Alexis Helmer...
... who lost his life at the 2nd Battle of Ypes in Belgium.
That poem subsequently became popular in the United States and to this day, is widely repeated on Memorial Day.
It's why poppies are now the artificial symbol of those who have fallen in war..
It's why poppies are now the artificial symbol of those who have fallen in war..
In Flanders Fields
In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row.
That mark our place, and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly.
Scarce heard amid the guns below.
We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow.
Loved and were loved, and now we lie
in Flanders fields.
Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from falling hands we throw
The Torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
in Flanders fields.
Sadly Lt. Colonel MaCrae would die of pneumonia on January 28, 1918, at the young age of 45...
...10 months before the armistice was signed bringing "The Great War" to its conclusion.
...10 months before the armistice was signed bringing "The Great War" to its conclusion.
Dick Arendt
-
From John Schmidt...to...Anthem Opinions
How they lived, worked so very hard to make a better life for themselves and those that followed.
How fortunate we are to have had the great grandfathers, grandfathers and fathers we had.and the women they married.
May they all rest in peace, they certainly deserve it. -
From Mary Lee Duley...to...Anthem Opinions
Beautifully written. -
From Dave Nall of Wilmington, NC...to...Anthem Opinions
Great piece, Dick!
‘Course, I was only a small boy at the time!
(Hey! It’s my story and I’m sticking to it!)
-
_____________________
Las Vegas Entertainment World
Loses Another Icon
Vincent Falcone
The name Vincent Falcone may not be a person you're familiar with, but if you know anything about the Entertainment industry, his name has always been synonymous with professionalism, perfection, and most importantly "class". Just ask those whom he conducted over his illustrious music career.
Residing in Las Vegas since 1970, Vince Falcone was the original house pianist at Caesars Palace when Frank Sinatra first heard him and subsequently made him his musical director from 1976 until 1982 and again from 1985-1986.
Said Falcone, "I always called him "Mr. Sinatra...never Frank".
In 1980 he was chosen to be the music director for the inaugural gala for President Ronald Reagan, and at one time or another, has been the pianist conductor for some of the greatest entertainers of our time.
Some of them included: Tony Bennett, Robert Goulet, Andy Williams, Paul Anka, Jack Jones, Al Martino, Eddie Fisher, James Darren, Jerry Lewis, Julius Larosa, and Joe Piscopo.
In addition he conducted for Steve Lawrence and Eydie Gorme, Connie Francis, Diahann Carroll, The McGuire Sisters, Pia Zadora, and local favorite, Clint Holmes.
In 2005 Vince Falcone published a book entitled "Frankly--Just Between Us".
...and in 2013 he was elected to the University of Nevada-Las Vegas College of Fine Arts Hall of Fame.
His most recent memorable appearance was conducting for Bob Anderson at The Palazzo in 2015 in the show "Sinatra The Man".
Here's an interview he did in 2015 on the Ed Bernstein Show discussing his years working with Frank Sinatra...
..and another interview Vince Falcone did with the daughter of Academy Award winning conductor, Harry Sukman, a two time nominee and winner for Best Score in a Motion Picture for the 1960 movie "Song without End" (The Story of Franz Liszt).
Harry Sukman
Sadly, we lost the talent of Mr. Falcone when he passed away on March 24,
2017.
The Day
...left us on March 18th...he was 90 years old !
Not a chance...
..via...the new "stuff" called...
Can all of you remember how exciting it was to guess Dick Clark's Top Ten hits...
...or asking kids from the audience to "rate a record"" as to whether it would be a hit ?
Every day someone we considered "idols" would show up and we'd begin to glamorize the likes of Elvis Presley, Paul Anka, Frankie Avalon, Fats Domino, Little Richard and the one guy who never recorded a song you couldn't dance to...
Chuck Berry was a guy who was a pioneer...a pioneer who saw something most in the early 50s couldn't see...
In Chuck's case, it began after he got out of reform school working in an automobile assembly plant in his hometown of St. Louis, Missouri.
In 1956, Chuck recorded his next hit...
Berry was asked why and when he first performed that "step" that would become his lifetime trademark, and the answer surprised all of his fans.
Nevertheless, Berry would still record some successful songs that included...
...doing an old Chuck Berry classic !
______________________
2017.
________________________
The Day
More
Rock & Roll Music Died
Say it ain't so !
Chuck Berry...
...left us on March 18th...he was 90 years old !
Why does it seem like yesterday that every night, I would sneak that old transistor radio under the covers when my mother and father would say...
"Turn That Thing off and go to bed !"
Not a chance...
It was the late 50s and after getting home every day after school, before anything....especially homework...
...Dick Clark's American Bandstand would be on TV and we'd be watching the "cool" kids from Philly show the rest of the country how to dance...
..via...the new "stuff" called...
Can all of you remember how exciting it was to guess Dick Clark's Top Ten hits...
...or asking kids from the audience to "rate a record"" as to whether it would be a hit ?
Every day someone we considered "idols" would show up and we'd begin to glamorize the likes of Elvis Presley, Paul Anka, Frankie Avalon, Fats Domino, Little Richard and the one guy who never recorded a song you couldn't dance to...
Chuck Berry
When you say the name...Chuck Berry...the first thing that comes to mind are the words...
Chuck Berry was a guy who was a pioneer...a pioneer who saw something most in the early 50s couldn't see...
Change...wonderful change...that it was OK to Feel the Music in addition to merely hearing it.
Mom and Dad's waltz and fox trot were "square" and guys like Chuck Berry would lead the way...a path that is now every bit as popular as it was 60 years ago.
Chuck was also one of the original "bad boys" that the ladies seemed to want more than the rest of us guys with crew cuts...
Over his life he would attend "Prison U" on two occasions; the first for transporting a 14 year old girl across state lines; the second, for "conveniently" forgetting to pay his income taxes.
We won't count the time he spent in a juvenile reform school for three years as a minor, committing armed robbery.
But...none of that mattered to us...
We just want to DANCE...and dance we did....
... to some the greatest rock n roll hits of all time !
In Chuck's case, it began after he got out of reform school working in an automobile assembly plant in his hometown of St. Louis, Missouri.
In a Tonight Show interview he claimed he wanted to sing like Nat King Cole to the lyrics of Louis Jordan, but with the beat of Benny Goodman and the soul of Muddy Waters.
In 1955 he met one of his idols, Muddy Waters, who suggested he contact a man name Leonard Chess, the co-owner of Chess Records.
Leonard Chess
Chess saw something special in Berry and in 1955, recorded Chuck's first hit...
"Maybelline"
It sold over 1,000,000 copies and Chuck Berry became a star !
In 1956, Chuck recorded his next hit...
"Roll Over Beethoven"
The hits would continue in 1957 with classics"...
"School Days"
"Rock n Roll Music"
"Sweet Little Sixteen"
and his most popular song of all...
"Johnny B Goode"
His famous "duck walk" would become legendary !
Berry was asked why and when he first performed that "step" that would become his lifetime trademark, and the answer surprised all of his fans.
He first did it in 1956....while doing an act in New York...to hide the wrinkles in a rayon suit he was wearing.
It got an ovation, and as a result, it would become a part of the Chuck Berry Legend.
Life was a charm for Chuck until 1959 when he was arrested for violaton of the Mann Act and convicted of having sex with a 14 year old whom he transported across state lines to work as a hat check girl in a night club he owned.
He would serve a year and half in prison from February, 1962 to October, 1963.
But now he would incur additional problems....The British Invasion !
Nevertheless, Berry would still record some successful songs that included...
"Nadine"
"No Particular Place to Go"
"Sa La Vie"
Old time rockers.... "time had passed them by"...
...but as the years continued, Chuck Berry would always remain the "heart of rock n roll" to his fans.
The Beatles, Rolling Stones, and Bruce Springstein would say Berry had been their inspiration, and recorded a number of his songs.
John Lennon once said, "If you give Rock n Roll another name, you might call it Chuck Berry".
Ted Nugent once said, "If you don't know every Chuck Berry hit, you can't play rock guitar".
The 70s and 80s would find a rekindling of old rock n roll idols and Berry would hit the road again and again, performing one nighters well into his 80s !
...and who will ever forget the scene in 1985's "Back to the Future" where Marty McFly would take that stage....
...doing an old Chuck Berry classic !
Over his amazing career, other than keeping us 70+ year old "teenagers" every time a Chuck Berry hit is played on the radio, he received accolade after accolade that included a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1984 and being inducted into the first edition of the Class of 1986 Rock n Roll Hall of Fame.
When you left us, Chuck, you took a part of us with you...
Our Youth !
Dick Arendt
Anthem Opinions
______________________
The Story of St. Patrick
Unlike our traditional History articles, we thought we'd celebrate this holiday in two ways.
First, what do you know about St. Patrick?
...but let's do it a bit differently.
Rather than write it, let's show you who he is, and how this day became a holiday.
Here is his story !
Now, let's celebrate this day the way all good Irish do and those who choose to adopt that nationality on this March 17th...
...through the wonderful music you'll hear everywhere you go on this day.
"All for Me Grog"
Brier
"Gypsy Rover"
The Highwaymen
"Danny Boy"
Celtic Woman
"An Irish Lullaby"
Sarah Moore
"Whiskey in the Jar"
The Dubliners
"McNamara's Band"
The Boys of the Isle
"Finnegan's Wake"
Darby O'Gill
"When Irish Eyes Are Smiling"
Irish Tenors
"The Night Pat Murphy Died"
Darby O'Gill
"Wearin' of the Green"
Wolfe Tones
"Unicorn Song"
Irish Rovers
"Molly Malone"
Dubliners
"Dear Old Donegal"
"A Song for Ireland"
Celtic Woman
______________________________
Norma McCorvey
A Woman Who Changed
The American Legal System
Though with a rather checkered past, Norma McCorvey has been a part of American history since 1973.
Who is Norma McCorvey?
Born on September 23, 1947 as Norma Nelson, her father left the family when she was just 13 years of age.
She and her brother were raised by a violent alcoholic mother.
Her problems began at just 10 years of age when she robbed the cash register of a gas station, running away from home with a friend...a female friend.
She subsequently became a ward of the state, and was sent to the State School of Gainsville, Texas from age 11 to 15.
After being released, she lived with her mother's cousin who allegedly raped her every night for three weeks, a charge he denied.
While working at a restaurant, she met a man named Woody McCorvey, marrying him when she was just age 16. The marriage failed and she would move in with her mother, giving birth to her first child, Melissa, in 1965.
She would develop a serious drinking problem and "came out" as a
lesbian.
In the meantime, her mother forced her to sign papers giving her custody of Melissa.
Following the adoption her mother promptly insisted she leave her house.
A year later, McCorvey became pregnant again, placing this child up for adoption as well.
In 1969, McCorvey became pregnant a third time; this time wishing to abort the fetus.
However, Texas law at that time outlawed abortion with one exception...
...rape.
Due to lack of evidence, Texas authorities would not allow the abortion to take place. She would later admit no rape had occurred.
Due to lack of evidence, Texas authorities would not allow the abortion to take place. She would later admit no rape had occurred.
She then attempted to obtain an illegal abortion.
...and that is when Norma McCorvey would enter the journals of law books that remain to this very day.
McCorvey would be referred to two attorneys who were looking for a pregnant woman who was seeking an abortion...two recent graduates of the University of Texas Law School at the time.
Linda Coffee
and
Sarah Weddington
Attorney's Coffee and Weddington would initially file the case in 1970 against Henry Wade, the Dallas County District Attorney....
Henry Wade
....and eventually take it all the way to the US Supreme Court, while the plaintiff, McCorvey, remained anonymous, and be referred to as
"Jane Roe".
And on January 22, 1973, the Supreme Court would decide what would be known as...
The Court ruled 7-2 that...
"a right to privacy under the Due Process Clause of the 14th Amendment extended to a woman's decision to have an abortion, but that this right must be balanced against the state's interests in regulating abortions: protecting women's health and protecting the potentiality of human life."
The court also ruled that these state interests became stronger over the course of the pregnancy, establishing a "balancing test" by tying state regulation of abortion to the third trimester of pregnancy.
(In 1992 "Planned Parenthood vs Casey" would reject the trimester framework while affirming that a woman has a right to abortion until fetal viability. The "Roe vs Wade" decision determined that viability may occur at 23 to 24 weeks, or sometimes earlier, in light of medical advances.)
The decision was written by Justice Harry Blackmun...
Justice Harry Blackmun
...due to his experience as previous Counsel for The Mayo Clinic.
What would become of the "main characters" ?
Attorney Linda Coffee is currently inactive, resides in Dallas, Texas, and has been a member of the Texas Bar Association for 49 years. She was an active member of the Women's Equity Action League, an organization working toward equal employment opportunities for women. She is 74 years old.
Attorney Sarah Weddington, age 72, was subsequently elected to three terms in the Texas House of Representatives.
She also served as General Counsel to the United States Department of Agriculture in 1977 (the first woman to hold that office); assistant to President Jimmy Carter from 1978 to 1981, and a lecturer at Texas Women's University from 1981 to 1990.
She is the founder of the Weddington Center, which focuses on women in leadership. Until 2012 she was a speaker and adjunct professor at The University of Texas at Austin.
Henry Wade joined the Dallas County District Attorney's Office in 1947, ran for the top post 4 years later,and remained in that position for the next 36 years until he retired in 1987.
He passed away on March 1, 2001 at the age of 86.
He passed away on March 1, 2001 at the age of 86.
He successfully prosecuted Jack Ruby, who shot and killed Lee Harvey Oswald two days after John Kennedy's assassination.
Justice Harry Blackmun served as Associate Justice of the Supreme Court from 1970 to 1994. He died at the age of 90 on March 4, 1994.
...and finally....
Norma McCorvey....the subject of "Roe vs Wade" ...
...would NEVER HAVE AN ABORTION.
In 1995, while working for an abortion clinic, a pro-life group moved into the same building.
At first bitterly opposed to them, over time she would become friends with the seven year old daughter of one the pro-life group, Emily Mackey...
Emily Mackey & Norma McCorvey
...and it would subsequently change her life.
According to McCorvey, "abortion was no longer an abstract right...it now had a face" in Emily Mackey.
Since that time she dedicated herself to pro-life work, starting her own ministry, "Roe No More" in 1997, even attempting to overturn "Roe vs Wade" in 2003, testifying before Congress in 2005.
Why is this article being written at this time ?
This unsuspecting historic figure passed away on Saturday, February 18, 2017. She was just 69 years old.
Whether you are pro-life or pro-choice, the debate will certainly continue for years to come...
...she will always be a part of American history !
Dick Arendt
-
From Tim Brooks...Henderson Chamber of Commerce & owner of Emerald Island Casino...to...Anthem Opinions
Thanks for sharing this,Dick. -
From Jill from Chicago...to...Anthem Opinions
Very interesting. Thanks for researching. -
From George Jacobs of Cleveland, OH...to...Anthem Opinions
Dick,
This is a very thoughtful of you.
Thanks for researching and publishing.
You are a good person. -
From Phillip Rosen...a soon to be Sun City Anthem resident...
"Dandy...just Dandy" -
From Mary Lee Duley...to...Anthem Opinions
Beautifully written. -
From Elaine Izaks...to...Anthem Opinions
Such a beautiful and well said tribute.
-
-
_____________________
The Oldest Valentine Card
It's believed that the oldest existing Valentine card dates back to...
1415...
...when...
Charles, Duke of Orleans
...gave his wife a valentine while being held prisoner in the Tower of London.
The French nobleman was wounded and captured at the Battle of Agincourt...a battle of "chivalry" between the French and English on October 25, 1415, a decisive English victory, lead into battle by the English King, Henry V...
... during the Hundred Year’s War (1337 to 1453).
Sadly, the duchess died before the poem could reach her.
Over the duke’s 25 year imprisonment...
...he wrote his wife 60 love poems that are often said to have been the first
“valentines.”
...he wrote his wife 60 love poems that are often said to have been the first
“valentines.”
The Battle of Agincourt...
... was the centerpiece of William Shakespeare's famous play "Henry V".
... was the centerpiece of William Shakespeare's famous play "Henry V".
Charles, Duke of Orléans, is a character in that classic play.
The actual first "Valentine", now 602 years old, remains housed in the manuscript collection of the British Library.
______________________________
______________________________
Children of the '30s
"The Last Ones"
by
Carl D. Peterson
Born in the 1930s, we exist as a very special age cohort. We are the "last ones".
We are the last, climbing out of the Depression, who can remember the winds of war and the war itself with fathers and uncles going off.
We are the last to remember ration books for everything from sugar to shoes to stoves.
We saved tin foil and poured fat into tin cans. We saw cars up on blocks because tires weren't available.
My own mother delivered milk in a horse-drawn cart.
We are the last to hear Roosevelt's radio assurances...
...and to see gold bars in the front windows of our grieving neighbors.
We can also remember parades on August 15, 1945...VJ Day.
We saw the "boys" come home from the war building their Cape-style homes, pouring the cellar, tar papering it over, and living there until they could afford the time and money to build it out.
We are the last who spent childhood without television; instead imagining what we heard on the radio.
As we all like to brag, with no TV, we spent out childhood outside until the street lights came on.
We did play outside and we did play on our own.
There was no little league.
The lack of television in our early years meant, for most of us, that we had little real understanding of what the world was like.
Our Saturday afternoons at the movies gave us newsreels of the war and the Holocaust sandwiched in between westerns and cartoons.
Newspapers and magazines were written for adults. We are the last to had to find out for ourselves.
As we grew up, the country was exploding with growth. The G.I. Bill gave returning veterans the means to get an education and spurred colleges to grow.
VA loans fanned a housing boom.
Pent-up demand coupled with new installment payment plans put factories to work.
New highways would bring jobs and mobility.
The veterans joined civic clubs and became active in politics. In the late '40s and early '50s the country seemed to lie in the embrace of brisk but quiet order as it gave birth to its new "middle class".
Our parents often became absorbed with their own lives. They were finally free from the confines of the Depression and the war.
They threw themselves into exploring opportunities they had never imagined.
They threw themselves into exploring opportunities they had never imagined.
We weren't neglected, but we weren't today's all-consuming family focus.
They were glad we played by ourselves "until the street lights came on".
They were discovering the post-war world !
Most of us had no "life plan", but with the unexpected virtue of ignorance and an economic rising tide, we simply stepped into the world and went to find out !
We entered a world of "overflowing plenty and opportunity", a world where we were welcomed.
Based on our naive belief that there was more that this came from, we shaped life as we went.
We enjoyed luxury; we felt secure in our future. Of course, just as today, not all Americans shared in this experience.
The Korean War was a dark passage in the early '50s...
... and by mid-decade, school children were ducking under desks.
China became Red China.
Eisenhower sent the first "advisors" to Viet Nam.
Castro set up camp in Cuba...
..and Khrushchev came to power.
We were the last to experience an interlude when there was no existential threats to our homeland.
We came of age in the late '40s and early '50s.
The war was over, and the Cold War...
...terrorism...
...climate change...
...technological upheaval...
...and perpetual economic insecurity...
...had yet to haunt life with insistent unease.
Only we can remember both a time of apocalyptic war and a time when our word was secure and full of bright promise and plenty.
We experienced both !
We are
"the last ones"
__________________________
Full Text of President Trump's Inauguration Speech
Chief Justice Roberts, President Carter, President Clinton, President Bush, President Obama, fellow Americans, and people of the world: thank you.
We, the citizens of America, are now joined in a great national effort to rebuild our country and to restore its promise for all of our people.
Together, we will determine the course of America and the world for years to come.
We will face challenges.
We will confront hardships.
But we will get the job done.
Every four years, we gather on these steps to carry out the orderly and peaceful transfer of power, and we are grateful to President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama for their gracious aid throughout this transition. They have been magnificent.
Today’s ceremony, however, has very special meaning. Because today we are not merely transferring power from one Administration to another, or from one party to another – but we are transferring power from Washington, D.C. and giving it back to you, the American People.
For too long, a small group in our nation’s Capital has reaped the rewards of government while the people have borne the cost.
Washington flourished – but the people did not share in its wealth.
Politicians prospered – but the jobs left, and the factories closed.
The establishment protected itself, but not the citizens of our country.
Their victories have not been your victories; their triumphs have not been your triumphs; and while they celebrated in our nation’s Capital, there was little to celebrate for struggling families all across our land.
That all changes – starting right here, and right now, because this moment is your moment: it belongs to you.
It belongs to everyone gathered here today and everyone watching all across America.
This is your day. This is your celebration.
And this, the United States of America, is your country.
What truly matters is not which party controls our government, but whether our government is controlled by the people.
January 20th 2017, will be remembered as the day the people became the rulers of this nation again.
The forgotten men and women of our country will be forgotten no longer.
Everyone is listening to you now.
You came by the tens of millions to become part of a historic movement the likes of which the world has never seen before.
At the center of this movement is a crucial conviction: that a nation exists to serve its citizens.
Americans want great schools for their children, safe neighborhoods for their families, and good jobs for themselves.
These are the just and reasonable demands of a righteous public.
But for too many of our citizens, a different reality exists: Mothers and children trapped in poverty in our inner cities; rusted-out factories scattered like tombstones across the landscape of our nation; an education system, flush with cash, but which leaves our young and beautiful students deprived of knowledge; and the crime and gangs and drugs that have stolen too many lives and robbed our country of so much unrealized potential.
This American carnage stops right here and stops right now.
We are one nation – and their pain is our pain. Their dreams are our dreams; and their success will be our success. We share one heart, one home, and one glorious destiny.
The oath of office I take today is an oath of allegiance to all Americans.
For many decades, we’ve enriched foreign industry at the expense of American industry; subsidized the armies of other countries while allowing for the very sad depletion of our military.
We've defended other nation’s borders while refusing to defend our own; and spent trillions of dollars overseas while America's infrastructure has fallen into disrepair and decay.
We’ve made other countries rich while the wealth, strength, and confidence of our country has disappeared over the horizon.
One by one, the factories shuttered and left our shores, with not even a thought about the millions upon millions of American workers left behind.
The wealth of our middle class has been ripped from their homes and then redistributed across the entire world.
But that is the past. And now we are looking only to the future.
We, assembled here today, are issuing a new decree to be heard in every city, in every foreign capital, and in every hall of power.
From this day forward, a new vision will govern our land.
From this moment on, it’s going to be America First.
Every decision on trade, on taxes, on immigration, on foreign affairs, will be made to benefit American workers and American families.
We must protect our borders from the ravages of other countries making our products, stealing our companies, and destroying our jobs. Protection will lead to great prosperity and strength.
I will fight for you with every breath in my body – and I will never, ever let you down.
America will start winning again, winning like never before.
We will bring back our jobs. We will bring back our borders. We will bring back our wealth. And we will bring back our dreams.
We will build new roads, and highways, and bridges, and airports, and tunnels, and railways all across our wonderful nation.
We will get our people off of welfare and back to work – rebuilding our country with American hands and American labor.
We will follow two simple rules: Buy American and Hire American.
We will seek friendship and goodwill with the nations of the world – but we do so with the understanding that it is the right of all nations to put their own interests first.
We do not seek to impose our way of life on anyone, but rather to let it shine as an example for everyone to follow.
We will reinforce old alliances and form new ones – and unite the civilized world against Radical Islamic Terrorism, which we will eradicate completely from the face of the Earth.
At the bedrock of our politics will be a total allegiance to the United States of America, and through our loyalty to our country, we will rediscover our loyalty to each other.
When you open your heart to patriotism, there is no room for prejudice.
The Bible tells us, “how good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity.”
We must speak our minds openly, debate our disagreements honestly, but always pursue solidarity.
When America is united, America is totally unstoppable.
There should be no fear – we are protected, and we will always be protected.
We will be protected by the great men and women of our military and law enforcement and, most importantly, we are protected by God.
Finally, we must think big and dream even bigger.
In America, we understand that a nation is only living as long as it is striving.
We will no longer accept politicians who are all talk and no action – constantly complaining, but never doing anything about it.
The time for empty talk is over.
Now arrives the hour of action.
Do not let anyone tell you it cannot be done. No challenge can match the heart and fight and spirit of America.
We will not fail.
Our country will thrive and prosper again.
We stand at the birth of a new millennium, ready to unlock the mysteries of space, to free the Earth from the miseries of disease, and to harness the energies, industries and technologies of tomorrow.
A new national pride will stir our souls, lift our sights, and heal our divisions.
It is time to remember that old wisdom our soldiers will never forget: that whether we are black or brown or white, we all bleed the same red blood of patriots; we all enjoy the same glorious freedoms, and we all salute the same great American Flag.
And whether a child is born in the urban sprawl of Detroit or the windswept plains of Nebraska, they look up at the same night sky, they fill their heart with the same dreams, and they are infused with the breath of life by the same almighty Creator.
So to all Americans, in every city near and far, small and large, from mountain to mountain, and from ocean to ocean, hear these words:
You will never be ignored again.
Your voice, your hopes, and your dreams, will define our American destiny. And your courage and goodness and love will forever guide us along the way.
Together, We Will Make America Strong Again.
We Will Make America Wealthy Again.
We Will Make America Proud Again.
We Will Make America Safe Again.
And, Yes, Together, We Will Make America Great Again.
Thank you, God Bless You, And God Bless America.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
What is your opinion of this speech?
Send your comment to:
scaopinions@gmail.com
-
From Robert Nusser...to...Anthem Opinions
This ranks up there with some of the world's greatest, but keep in mind the speech was the same message to the people that got him elected in the first place.
He laid down the gauntlet and put people on notice.
The few media types that found it necessary to rip it apart and disparage the speech, still don't get it:
When you're in a hole, stop digging. -
From Buddy Greenfield...to...Anthem Opinions
This inauguration address says it all.
Whether you voted for Donald Trump for president or you did not, that is history.
I hope that he means what he says and if so, our country will be on the mend.
We need to cheer on America and quit playing politics……
Go America! -
I find it rather sad that Anthem Opinions is the only community publication to wish the best to our new President.
We are all of a particular political belief, but no matter what that may be, our country's future is at stake, and our President's success is OUR success.
Those who wish him failure are indeed wishing their country will fail.
Let's allow him the courtesy of "giving him the opportunity" each and every President deserves. -
I spent the entire day riveted to the TV, and my friends will tell you I hate TV. The beauty of the event, the coming together of the American people to install the duly elected President, regardless of Political affiliation, had me close to tears at times. I bounced around various news outlets and finally remembered C-SPAN, which was giving pretty much the same feed as the others, but minus all the commentary. Don’t get me wrong. I do appreciate certain commentators such as Tucker Carlson. But, I also like to watch and draw my own conclusions.
The graciousness Donald Trump showed throughout, to the Obama’s, the Biden’s and even the Clinton’s, was exemplary. As the process continued and I heard President Trump’s words on Independence and Power to the People I was again reminded of President John Kennedy’s great uplifting of the country. I pray Mr. Trump will be able to accomplish the goal he has set out for middle America, which has been decimated for years by previous administrations.
The parade was a joy. The absence of the dissenting Democrats was barely a footnote. And the Liberty Ball!! What a stunning and diverse celebration. I found myself up and dancing around our Family room. I am just so happy and encouraged that America might be able to regain its greatness and proper place in the world; as a shining example rather than a capitalist invader caring nothing about the American people.
Thank you Dick Arendt for publishing the articles and the full text of the Inauguration speech. I look forward to bright times for our country. To focus on the real problems we face; jobs, infrastructure, health and safety, and not the petty squabbles taking up most of the National Media’s interest.
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Inauguration...2017
Since November 8, 2016, the United States has been chaotic as to the election of Donald J. Trump as our 45th president.
Some are jubilant while others believe the world will "come to an end".
No matter how you feel, he WILL BE our next President, and we hope that the next four years will be a positive experience for all Americans.
...and as we have previously stated, the purpose of this article is to INFORM, not to PERSUADE....
...that knowledge allows intelligent people to look at all facts, rather then forming opinions based on what they may have seen on biased media reports or what rumors they may have heard.
On November 13, 2016, we published an article regarding his wife, Melania Trump, our next First Lady.
Yesterday, we thought you should know something about our next Vice President, Mike Pence.
Today...as our nation will shortly embark on a new path with new leaders, we would like to tell you...
Who is Donald J. Trump
Donald John Trump, was born June 14, 1946, and will be five months shy of his 71st birthday when he takes the presidential oath of office on January 20, 2017.
He is 6'2" or 6'3' and weighs between 195 and 200 lbs.
He has a full head of blond/brown hair (which is long and elaborately combed) and blue eyes.
He wears a size 12 shoe.
He was born the fourth of five children who were born over eleven years.
Donald, Fred Jr., Robert, Maryanne, Elizabeth Trump
The oldest, Mary Ann Trump Barry, was born in 1937 and is currently a Federal Judge.
His older brother, Fred Jr, died in early adulthood as a result of complications from alcoholism.
He has another older sister, Elizabeth, and a younger brother, Robert.
Donald Trump has been married three times.
Trump's first wife, Ivana, was an immigrant from Czechoslovakia and a divorcee who has been married 4 times in her life.
Ivana Trump
She is a lifelong avid skier and worked in design at the Trump Organization.
Marla Maples, Trump's second wife, is an actress and model.
Marla Maples
Trump's third wife, Melania, is an immigrant from Slovenia (born in Yugoslavia) and has been a super model.
Melania Trump
Two of Trump's children, Donald Jr. and Ivanka, have gone to the same prestigious university.
Ivanka...
...two years at Georgetown University and transferring to The Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania, where she graduated cum laude with a B.S. in Economic in 2004...
...and...
Donald Jr....
also a graduate of the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania with a B.S. in Economics.
Son Eric...
...went to Georgetown, graduating with honors with a B.S. in Finance & Management in 2002.
Donald Jr., Donald Sr., Ivanka, & Eric Trump
Donald Trump is Presbyterian.
Donald Trump's oldest daughter, Ivanka, and her three children are Jewish.
Trump's oldest daughter, Ivanka, is married to Jared Kushner who is, among other things, a newspaper publisher. The Kushner family is very successful in New York City area real estate.
Trump's grandmother, mother, first wife, and third wife are all immigrants.
The President-Elect was born and raised in Queens NY, and though
his family was very wealthy, his boyhood home in the Jamaica Estates section of Queens was not a grand mansion.
The Trump home was a larger version of the types of homes Fred Trump built for his tenants.
There are no indications that the Trump family lived among the wealthy elites on vacations or country clubs.
Queens is the largest of New York's five boroughs and the most ethnically diverse.
Donald Trump attended a local private day school, the Kew Forrest School, in Queens until about 8th grade.
His secondary schooling was at New York Military Academy which is about 60 miles north of NYC in Cornwall on the Hudson. He was in class of 1964.
Trump was never a "Preppie",and never embraced any aspect of the "Hippie" movement of the time.
He was a very good high school athlete - football, soccer, and especially baseball. He had potential to become a professional baseball player.
Donald Trump
Center of Photo
Trump was generally popular in high school; his boarding school room mate liked him, and yes, so did the ladies !
He attended Fordham University in NYC for two years and transferred to the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School of Business, graduating in 1968 with a B.S. in Economics.
At that time, the Wharton School offered a rare program for Real Estate Business.
Though he was of age, Donald Trump did not serve in Vietnam.
He was not drafted due to bone spurs in his heels (4F) and also student deferments.
Donald Trump does not smoke, drink or use recreational drugs.
He'll be the first President in more than 25 years who hasn't smoked marijuana.
His children also don't smoke or drink.
His doctor publicly announced Donald to be in excellent health.
His background is very much a very American story .
His grandparents immigrated to the U.S. from Alsace (Kallstadt, Germany) which throughout history, has been alternately French and German.
The Trumps are German, originally speaking the same German dialect as the Amish of Lancaster County, PA.
His maternal grandparents lived in Scotland.
Freiderich (Drumph) Trump, his grandfather, made a small but respectable fortune in the late 19th Century in the mining boom towns of the American Northwest.
He returned to Germany to marry his childhood neighbor, Elizabeth Christ.
The newly married Trumps resettled in the Borough of Queens NY.
Elizabeth & Frederich Trump
(grandparents of Donald Trump)
Freidrich was establishing a Real Estate business in Queens when he died suddenly at age 49 (1918).
Frederich Trump had achieved the "American dream" of coming to a new land, and through hard work and dedication, became a huge success.
In 1920, at the age of 15, Fred Trump (Freiderich's son and Donald's father), started a business partnership with his widowed mother called Elizabeth Trump & Son.
This business was built upon the real estate holdings that his late father, Frederich, had amassed (worth about $500,000 in today's dollars).
This is the original "seed money" of the current Trump Organization.
Elizabeth & Fred remained close business partners her entire life (she died in 1966).
In 1936 Fred Trump (age 31) married Mary Ann MacLeod (age 24) of Stoneaway, Scotland.
Mary Ann MacLeod
Donald Trump's Mother
During the depression, Fred Trump built and successfully operated a supermarket (a new concept at the time) which was sold to King Kullen Co. which operates to this day.
Fred Trump
Donald Trump's Father
Fred Trump made a lot of money building housing for the military during World War II.
All (or nearly all) of the building of Elizabeth Trump & Son's non-government building was residential property in Queens.
Fred Trump died in 1999 (age 94) - beloved and worth between $250 million and $300 million.
His wife, Mary Ann, died a year later.
Donald Trump's business career....
Some have referred to Donald Trump as the the greatest career achiever of the "baby boomer" generation.
His estimated net worth is $4.5 billion.
Donald Trump has reached the zenith in his careers as book author, TV entertainer, sports entertainer, Real Estate developer, and as of January 20, 2017, the President of the United States.
He has authored more than 18 books. "The Art of the Deal" was a top seller.
Donald says that the "Holy Bible" is his favorite book.
"The Art of the Deal" is his 2nd favorite book.
And "The Power of Positive Thinking" by Norman Vincent Peale is his third favorite book.
He likes golf and has developed more than 11 golf courses which bear his name.
Donald Trump has twice been nominated for an Emmy Award.
He has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
...which was recently vandalized.
Donald Trump has been inducted to the Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame.
He has appeared in more than a dozen movies such as "Home Alone 2", "Zoolander", and "Little Rascals", and a guest actor on TV shows such as "Fresh Prince of Bel Air", "Days of Our Lives", "Sex and the City", and others.
He's been the Executive Producer of 7 TV shows, and
TV shows such as "Extra", "Larry King Live", and" Saturday Night Live".
Donald Trump has been co-producer of the longest running reality TV show, "The Apprentice."
Keeping in mind that 90% of start-up businesses fail, Trump's record of enterprise is nothing short of amazing.
Donald Trump has enjoyed success in at least 11 very different enterprises:
Professional football, Ice Skating rinks,
Fragrance, Ice, Steaks, Wines, Model management, Airline, blenders, Men's wear, Bicycle races, world class beauty contests, and many others.
In some of these, such as model management, his firm has risen to the top of that particular industry.
There are 31 buildings that bear his name.
The largest private real estate development in New York is Trump Riverside.
There are 12 Trump Towers.
There are 6 Trump Plazas.
There are 11 Trump Golf Course developments.
Trump Entertainment, casinos and resorts was recently sold to Carl Ichan.
Donald Trump's personal managing of the Wollman Ice Skating Rink project in the early 1980's is the quintessential case study for MBA students in Wharton, Harvard, and other business schools.
His performance there was phenomenal.
Donald Trump's privately held businesses have employed more than 200,000 people.
Aside from his personal investments, Donald Trump has never been a Wall Street "player".
Keeping in mind that 90% of start-up businesses fail, Trump's record of enterprise is nothing short of amazing.
Keeping in mind that 90% of start-up businesses fail, Trump's record of enterprise is nothing short of amazing.
Donald Trump's History in politics:
1967 - 1987 - Democrat (he was a supporter of Ronald Reagan)
1987 - 1999 - Republican
1999 - 2001 - Reform Party (he supported Ross Perot)
2001 - 2009 - Democrat
2009 - 2011 - Republican
2011 - 2012 - Independent
2012 - Present - Republican
Donald Trump was openly supportive of Mitt Romney's candidacy.
He does not seem to hold political party organizations in high regard.
Some of the comments (from those who know him well):
Trump has an extraordinary energy level, much like Teddy Roosevelt, but more targeted to industry and enterprise.
Trump's presidency will be very energetic, transparent, and communicative.
Trump will be a very hard working President.
His interaction with his older brother (who everybody loved) tells me that he thinks that everybody is like him - or wants to be - or should be.
His relationship with his older brother was a hard lesson in tolerance for him.
He is dumb like a fox. When you think he just said something stupid - he didn't. It's just that you were not his target audience.
Trump knows the people - the folk.
His son, Donald Jr. is right. Trump is a "Blue Collar Billionaire".
More than anything, his TV show, The Apprentice, was his passion.
He wants all Americans to have confidence (like he does) to venture.
Donald Trump is attracted to and marries smart, high achieving women.
Donald Trump is attracted to and marries smart, high achieving women.
As a father...
Donald Trump's children are very important to him. And it shows.
Regarding the 2016 Presidential Election
In his first candidacy for public office, Donald Trump received the most popular votes for the President of the United States out of a field of 16 experienced and successful politicians during the Republican primaries.
And in most cases, he achieved this with less money than any of his opponents.
He received 304 electoral votes compared to Hillary Clinton's 227.
He lost the national popular vote by 2,472,565 votes...
...however...
Can this be further analyzed ?
When one looks a bit closer at the California vote totals, the state of California provides a national picture most are unaware of....
In California, Hillary Clinton received 5,860,714 votes to Trump’s 3,151,821, a difference of...
2,708,893.
If one subtracted the totals of California from both candidates, the result would have had Donald Trump winning the national total of the remaining 49 states by 236,328 votes.
Does the state of California represent the remainder of the United States?
Consider these statistics....and you decide.
34% of the nation's 67,980,000 million people who receive welfare live in California.
...yet California claims only 12% of the entire US population.
Will this man govern differently than his predecessors?
Time will tell...
But...the vote has been certified; he has been declared the winner of the 2016 Presidential election...
...and at noon EST on Friday, January 20, 2017 he will take the oath of office as our 45th president.
Now you know more about our next president than most who have held that office.
Does he deserve a chance to succeed?
We believe he does !
We believe he does !
Let us know how you feel.
Send us a comment to:
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From Gayle Thompson...to...Anthem Opinions
Dick,
This was very well done. Two days to a new day.
I'm anticipating a super next four years. -
From Denise Munns...to...Anthem Opinions
Wonderful and Interesting.......
I don't for the life of me understand why Americans can't see this is a great man who loves this country and wants to succeed...... and they should just GIVE HIM A CHANCE to make America great again. It's despicable!!!
Thanks Dick!!!! -
From George Jacobs of Cleveland, Ohio...to...Anthem Opinions
Thanks for the background. I really appreciate you giving me education.
Although I voted for him, I held my nose with my fingers.
It sure looks like I got more than I expected. -
From Forrest Fetherolf...to...Anthem Opinions
Super articles on Donald Trump and Family along with Mike Pence.
Now I understand why many Democrats, media, and movie industry are so hateful.
Envy...Jealously...Stupidity to say the least.
Quality...Ability...Character...Success... Just drives some Democrats crazy because the entitlement folks cannot tolerate those traits, traits many Dems seem to be lacking.
My simple phrase...
"There is a big difference between business minded people and "W-2" earners (Entitlement Folks)."
These simple minded individuals cannot tolerate others that are successful...so what do they do?
...bad mouth, demonstrate, whine, cry, and blame someone else for their failures.
I am still chuckling over Trumps win.
I'll bet he will be a great success for our country, shake up Washington, and put the "lifer" politicians to shame.
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From George Jacobs of Cleveland, Ohio...to...Anthem Opinions
As I've come to know more about #45, he brings to mind Reagan and Kennedy.
What a wonderful combination that could be! -
From Robert Nusser...to...Anthem Opinions
Wonderful article.
TOMORROW is the BIG DAY ! -
From S.C...to...Anthem Opinions
The article you printed on Trump was informative but not unbiased. It not only gives facts, it clearly is slanted toward support of him. Not exactly basic journalism in my opinion.
I lived in NYC for 15 years and witnessed the ‘business practices’ of Trump long before he ran for president.
I recall one story that broke my heart. He acquired a rent controlled building on Manhattan’s upper west side.
It was a beautiful building and housed people who were older and who had lived in the building for many years.
It was prime real estate, but with the rent control laws, the rent charged was far below market value.
This law was in place to help poor people maintain a decent standard of living in a city that was becoming increasingly more and more expensive to live in.
Rent control protected them.
Through Trumps business savvy, he got them out!
Every last one of them, one by one were evicted from their homes.
One lie after another about the building being unsafe, need improvements and upgrades and as soon as the work was done they were suppose to be allowed back in their homes they lived in for many, many years.
Well, that never happened.
The apartments were turned into condos and sold at a great profit.
I recall one headline in one of the local papers to the story went something like this,
” Trump would sell his own mother’s legs as foundation to make a buck”
The Wollman Rink story definitely helped his tarnished image at the time.
He swooped in like a white knight and fixed what others could not.
I remember the entire city was very grateful to him. It was nothing short of a miracle.
Good stories like this one are few and far between, but shows that there is some decency in him.
It showed that he is not just a cheating, ruthless, lying, womanizing, adulterer we knew him to be.
Finally, as the article states, he won! Now we all must pray for him to succeed and pray for our country to not go back again, but to move forward stronger and more resilient than ever. -
S.C., it is always refreshing to have an opposing view. That's the beauty of the American system.
I am sorry that you felt the article was biased. It was never meant to be; however, in examining your comments, I could not help but notice it appears that everything you criticized was the result of a media report, not a personal experience.
Were you one of the occupants of that housing you mentioned?
Did you know any individual who was?
Other than that, I do find fault in demanding a "for profit" organization being forced to lose money.
Perhaps legislation like "rent control" created a false sense of economy, that you feel it is the duty of profit-making companies to work for "the state's" interests, rather than their own.
That was never what capitalism was intended to do, but a revolution in 1917 Russia was...and that system died a rapid death in 1989 as a result.
And...also, could regulations like "rent control" be the reason that states like New York have some of the highest tax rates in the country?
By any chance, did you relocate to Nevada to avoid those high taxes?
And...referring to the President of the United States in terms of a "cheating, ruthless, lying, womanizing, adulterer" is certainly uncalled for in our opinion.
Many had "issues" with the individual he will be replacing, yet reluctantly accepted him as our President, and lived with his decisions for eight years, despite those disagreements.
They did not riot in the streets. They did not refer to him as an "illegitimate president"; they allowed history to take its course until they could decide whether that same form of leadership should continue.
The people believe it did not as a result of the 2016 election.
I hope all people of all political persuasions can do the same in this case, and those who disagree with the current climate, like those in the past, will have the same opportunity to make a change in 2020.
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Watching the inauguration concert on the Mall in Washington DC I am reminded of something my Mom told me so many times. Her Dad often told her "The best thing I ever did for my children was to come to this Country". Aren't we fortunate to live in this wonderful land? I am sure my grandfather's sentiments apply to so many of us and we might sometimes forget to cherish this special gift and treat it with the respect it truly deserves. Best way to do that is by respecting each other- not enough of that these days.
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From S.C...to...Anthem Opinions
Thank you Mr. Arendt for your thoughtful well written reply to my response.
First let me begin by saying that most opinions are based on media reports, including yours.
Few Americas know Donald Trump personally. I did meet him once at Trump Tower in the 90’s.
I feel, being an ex New Yorker I have a perspective that others might not have. New Yorkers did not support him
largely because we witnessed through the years many things first hand that were never reported in the national papers.
Yes, I personally witnessed the eviction of those tenants, I lived just a few doors down from that building.
I also lived in another building that had a wonderful view of a park and the Hudson River.
Trump purchased the land right across the street and built condos in front.
We all lost our views, a nice park, and property values went down.
Although I didn’t like it, I understand that this is business, this is capitalism and you win some and you lose some.
You cannot equate this with being tricked out of your home, evicted and set out into the streets. Trust me I know the difference.
Also, I moved to Nevada for personal reasons. I did not come here straight from New York.
As for the disrespect you mentioned, I’d like to point out my view of the disrespect our current president has endured throughout his presidency.
There have been numerous instances, but for time sake I’ll just point out a couple.
Most noteworthy is state majority leader(at the time) Mitch McConnell obstructionist strategy. He pledged to prevent President Obama from achieving his goals and rallied to oppose him even when Republican agendas were on the table.
Where is this ‘reluctance acceptance’ you speak of?
Rep. Joe Wilson yelling out ‘you lied’ to President Obama, doesn’t feel like ‘reluctant acceptance’ to me.
Arizona governor Jan Brewer pointing her finger in President Obamas face like he was a naughty child, was certainly not ‘reluctant acceptance’.
Even George W Bush, who is now referred to as the worst president in our history never received such disrespect.
I have to disagree with you about the “we” didn’t question his legitimacy.
In fact it was Trump who continued to question the legitimacy of Obama to be president. The whole birther movement was indeed that.
"Fake news" perpetrated by a man who now criticizes "fake news” becauseit no longer serves him.
Finally, President Obama's presidency was not perfect.
Yes, there were mistakes, missteps, miscalculations, etc.
No president is without this.
It’s a difficult job and God bless those who feel called to the office.
But I don’t think you can EVER say that President Obama marginalized women,disrespected ethnic groups, mocked the handicap, insulted our allies, praised our enemies, cheated on his wife, didn’t pay contractors who did work for him,or paid millions to get out of a law suite for the fraudulent Trump University.
These things speaks to his character.
For all of President Obama's flaws, he still remains a decent human being. -
S.C., let me remind you that this article in no way chastised any person, yet almost all of your remarks were directed to literally "demonize" Donald J. Trump.
We merely attempted to provide a biographical sketch of an individual who was chosen to be our 45th president by the people of the United States.
You will note that not a single negative word was written regarding Hillary Clinton or President Obama.
Only the life of President Trump was discussed....from his immigrant heritage to his success in business and industry, and the educational levels and prestige achieved by his children.
The past is the past, and neither of us can change it, whether it be opinion or fact, but one should, if they truly love this land, respect the office to which this man has been elected.
You mention that you seem to be better qualified as to determining the character of Mr. Trump because you originally resided in New York.
I am from the Chicago area and watched the career of our current president from the moment he was an Illinois State Senator to his election to the US Senate, and eventually the presidency.
That is another story...a story that has many sordid aspects that honestly, are no longer of any importance, and certainly would not have anything to do with the biography of Mr. Trump.
It is time to stop these constant incessant attacks on our new president, accept the reality of the situation, and remember that the enemies of our country are closely watching them...
...that these senseless arguments and insults directed at Mr. Trump AS THE LEADER OF THE FREE WORLD, do not merely attempt to weaken him as a president, but our entire nation in the eyes of the world.
Why is that so difficult to comprehend on the part of "Trump haters"?
We have had a successful and peaceful transition of power in almost every elective moment in US history....with the exception of the Civil War.
It was in that year that such rhetoric against a man elected our President (Abraham Lincoln) had the effect of the potential destruction of the entire American system.
The result....the catastrophic loss of countless innocent lives...in order to preserve it....
...and allowing a man named Lincoln to become what many consider our greatest president.
Is it possible that Mr. Trump may indeed succeed, or do the constant insults fear his succeeding ?
One thing for sure, if you believe he can't...HE WON'T...negativity fuels negativity.
That attitude is NOT the American Spirit that has professed optimism for over two centuries.
Is that the ultimate objective regarding the inability of accepting reality?
Destruction of the system ?
Wouldn't it be easier to accept the man, wish him well, watch him for the next four years, and then determine if he and/or his political party should continue a similar agenda by way of a PEACEFUL election ? -
From Forrest Fetherolf...to...Anthem Opinions
I have to shake my head in total amazement and disagreement after reading S.C.'s comment regarding Trump's purchase of a run down building, refurbishing it, selling the units, and making a profit.
In short, that is Capitalism at work and is what free enterprise should be in the USA...not Socialism where Entitlement is mandatory and someone else should pay your way.
I was a victim of Rent Control in Los Angeles, California, another Liberal controlled state.
I inherited several properties as payback for a bad debt.
I worked through it losing $$$ because the rent structure under Rent Control was well below the current going rate at that time.
The renters knew they were protected by law and took advantage of it.
The property owners could only increase rent dictated by government regulation, and could not evict because of heavy penalties that would be imposed.
Rent increases allowed were 50% less than the annual cost of living.
I didn't criticize the renters for taking advantage of the law, so why are investors criticized when they follow it? -
From Sarah Carol...to...Anthem Opinions
Yes Elizabeth,
It is a great country. We are fortunate to live in a place where we can speak freely, disagree with others
and challenge the establishment without fear of serious persecution.
America is (by comparison) the land of the free.
We are all fighting to keep this right.
One thing I know for sure, no matter who is in the white house or what they do, or don’t do,
In the end, when it’s all said and done, we are all Americans! That will never change.
Peace! -
This is how the power of transition SHOULD occur.
Perhaps those who choose to disrupt the presidential inauguration might wish to examine these letters exchanged from past presidents on the day they were inaugurated.
They show GOOD WISHES...and...what seems to be absent as we witness the "mobs" of protesters....CLASS !
The letter from George Bush to Barack Obama in 2009:
"Dear Barack,
Congratulations on becoming our President. You have just begun a fantastic chapter in your life.
Very few have had the honor of knowing the responsibility you now feel. Very few know the excitement of the moment and the challenges you will face.
There will be trying moments. The critics will rage. Your 'friends' will disappoint you. But, you will have an Almighty God to comfort you, a family who loves you, and a country that is pulling for you, including me. No matter what comes, you will be inspired by the character and compassion of the people you now lead.
God bless you.
Sincerely, George"
The letter from Bill Clinton to George Bush in 2001:
"Dear George,
Today you embark on the greatest venture, with the greatest honor, that can come to an American citizen.
Like me, you are especially fortunate to lead our country in a time of profound and largely positive change, when old questions, not just about the role of government, but about the very nature of our nation, must be answered anew.
You lead a proud, decent, good people. And from this day you are President of all of us. I salute you and wish you success and much happiness.
The burdens you now shoulder are great but often exaggerated. The sheer joy of doing what you believe is right is inexpressible.
My prayers are with you and your family. Godspeed.
Sincerely, Bill" -
Microsoft cofounder and Forbes-designated richest person in the world, Bill Gates, in a recent interview, said Trump has the opportunity to be like JFK. He said he thought there was "a lot of fascination" in identifying which "new directions" Trump would take the country in.
He added that Trump was not elected "so much for specific policies" but because voters wanted "the kind of leadership" he presented.
Mr. Gates commented that, "In the same way that President Kennedy talked about the space mission and got the country behind that — I think that whether it's education or stopping epidemics, other health breakthroughs, finishing polio, and in this energy space — there can be a very upbeat message that his administration is going to organize things, get rid of regulation barriers, and have American leadership through innovation be one of the things that he gets behind."
My own joy and sense of relief watching the Pre-inauguration concert feed on CSPAN (without commentary) reminded me of those same feelings when John Kennedy was elected president. -
From Victor Tolan...to...Anthem Opinions
Referring to the President of the United States in terms of a "cheating, ruthless, lying, womanizing, adulterer":
I thought they must be referring to ex-president Clinton.
How short memories are, especially when party lines are involved.
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________________________________
NOTE:
This article was written by an unknown author.
Why did we decide to print it?
We did so not to sway any individual opinion, but to inform.
This has been researched for accuracy.
We understand that there is a deep division in our nation, but the beauty of the American system is that if you don't like the leaders, you have the opportunity to make a change every four years.
On January 20, 2017, our nation will have a change in management at its highest level.
It is the right of every American to PEACEFULLY disagree, but we also firmly believe that the office of Vice President and President should be respected by all.
Not to do so, places the American system in jeopardy and vulnerable to the many enemies we as a country face across the earth.
It is with this intention that "to know the person" who will hold those positions for the next four years, makes for a better understanding of that person, and with that in mind....
Meet
Mike Pence
Our Next Vice President
A Deeply Religious Man
It’s fair to say that until last summer, most Americans
had never heard of “Mike Pence.”
But ironically, this relatively unknown man will soon
take the second-highest office in the country.
Today he’s mostly known for being President-Elect
Donald Trump’s sidekick, but truth be told, there’s a side of Mike Pence that many haven’t seen.
When I learned more about Mike Pence, my respect
and admiration for America’s Vice President-Elect only grew all the more.  Unlike most men in Washington, Mike Pence wasn’t raised in a thriving political household.
Instead, Pence carved his own path — fueled
by deep convictions which were grounded in his faith.  Michael Richard “Mike” Pence was born on June 7, 1959
in Columbus, Indiana.
He is the youngest of six children born to devout Catholic
churchgoers, Nancy Jane and Edward J. Pence, Jr.
His father was a U.S. Army veteran who earned a humble
living by operating a gas station.  Pence admits that his parents were never politically inclined.But unlike his family, heroes such as John F. Kennedy and Martin Luther King Jr. caught young Pence’s attention and inspired him to get involved in politics.
"I grew up on the front row of the American dream.
My grandfather immigrated to this country, and
I was raised in a small town in Southern Indiana in a big family with a cornfield in the backyard. Although we weren’t really a political family, the heroes of my youth were President John F. Kennedy and the
Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.”
The young Pence soon discovered his voice and
even entered an oratorical contest in the fifth grade.
“It shouldn’t have come as a surprise,”according to
his mother, Nancy.
“He was always talking. What surprised me was how
well he could talk in front of large crowds. I believe it was sponsored by the Optimist Club, and Mike was competing against kids in the sixth, seventh and eighth grades,” his mother said.
“When it came his turn, his voice just boomed
out over the audience.He just blew everybody away. I had a hard time associating the boy up there speaking with our son.”  Pence graduated from Columbus North High School in 1977 and went on to study history at Hanover College.
Throughout his childhood, Pence always clung
to his faith and had even considered becoming a priest.
But in college, he says his faith "wavered", and he
eventually decided to leave his Catholic faith.
“I went off to college and largely walked away from the
faith that I was raised to believe in,” Pence told the congregation at First Baptist Jacksonville in Florida.  The man had given up on his original religion, but that didn’t stop God’s powerful plan for his life....
...but once in college, it wasn’t long before Pence was
surrounded by devout Christians who reminded him of the faith he once clung to.
Pence shared, “When I got to college, I met a group
of folks in a non-denominational Christian fellow group.”  Pence recalled the life-changing day he told his fraternity “big brother” that he’d love to get a Christian cross like the one he wore.
His friend’s unexpected response left such a powerful
impression, Pence would recall it decades later on the floor of Congress.
“Remember, Mike, you have got to wear it in your heart
before you wear it around your neck,” Mr. Pence said his fraternity brother told him.
His friend’s message resonated with Pence and
months later, he found himself at a Christian music festival.
It was there that Pence heard a sermon and his
faith was suddenly rekindled.
Pence would go on to earn a bachelor of arts degree in history
from Hanover College in 1981, and a law degree from
the Robert H. McKinney School of Law in Indianapolis,
Indiana, in 1986.
But...Pence's re-dedication to religion wasn't the only
blessing he received in college.
A certain lady named Karen caught his attention during
a Sunday service, and he was determined to introduce
himself.
...and during that first encounter, he learned that he
had gone to law school with her sister.
A few days later, Pence went to the registrar to look
up Karen’s sister to get “the scoop” on the pretty guitarist.
At first, the registrar refused, but when Pence
explained why he wanted the number, the registrar gave in.  Mike called the phone number for Karen’s sister — but to his complete shock, Karen answered instead.
Pence was so surprised, he accidentally hung up
on her. Pence took a few moments to collect himself and redialed —eventually inviting Karen out to dinner.
Their first date included ice skating and family, and a
“bet” that the pair would eventually get married.
 That night, Karen’s 10-year-old niece bet Pence $1 that he would marry her aunt.  That little girl eventually won the bet.
And the registrar who made it all possible attended
their wedding on June 8, 1985.  This past year, Mike and Karen celebrated 31 years of wedded bliss — and as their new role in America approaches, the Pence family remains a united front.
“We’ve always been a team,” Karen said. "We’ve
always approached politics as a team.”
The future vice president chimed in, “She’s the best
part of my life,everything we do in public life, we do together."
"I can’t imagine it any other way.”
 But Mike Pence is not only a devoted husband, but he’s a proud father as well.
Mike and Karen Pence have three children
together: Charlotte,Michael, and Audrey.
Throughout his political campaign, the Pence
family has shown their true colors.
The three children have been incredibly supportive
of their dad’s campaign — traveling with him, making calls, and praying for him every day.
Mike Pence is a proud supporter of our troops.
Especially due to the fact that his eldest, Michael J. Pence
is a Marine Corps officer.  Pence’s eldest daughter, Charlotte is a filmmaker and a writer.
According to her website, Charlotte directed
a documentary called “For the Records,” which highlights the struggle of mental illness.
She was also associate producer and co-writer
of “Fleeced,” which won nine regional Emmy awards.  The youngest of the Pence family, Audrey Pence, is a social liberal. She’s independent politically and has voted split ticket in elections.
But despite the fact that they don’t share the same
views, her dad has been proud of her for thinking independently — and she voted for him in the Indiana governor election.
Audrey revealed, "Probably the person I get
the most respect from is my dad. He has always… he tells me so many times,I am proud of you for having your own opinions and looking into things."
'
But even more important than being a family man,
Mike Pence considers his faith the most crucial aspect
of his life.
Pence shared,“I’m a Christian, a conservative
and a Republican....in that order.”
And added that his “Christian faith is at the
very heart of who”he is.
Pence continued, "I made a commitment to Christ.
I’m a born-again, evangelical Catholic.”  Politics may be new arena for Donald Trump, but Pence — a former six-term congressman — is well aware of the backlash that comes when you take a stand for unborn lives,
Israel, and the Second Amendment.
“One thing you can say about Mike Pence is he’s got a
very calm,steady demeanor that in some ways is a little Reagan-esque,” said Christine Mathews, a Republican pollster for former Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels. “He’s a counterbalance to Trump in that way.”  Time and time again throughout this election, the former lawyer has encouraged Americans to respond to hatred with love —and make prayer a priority.
Pence shared, “I would encourage you, if you are
inclined to do as the Pence family does from time to time, to bow the head and bend the knee.
Pray that America will once again stand tall, stand strong.
‘Prayer is the last best hope of earth,’— that’s what Abraham
Lincoln called it. It’s still true.”
Pence thinks prayer is important in America:
As countless Americans find themselves in the midst of riots,
hatred, hurt, and anger, Pence reminds Americans to use the
most powerful weapon in their possession: prayer.
“So, I encourage you. Remember, what’s been true for
thousands of years is still true today. That if His people who are called by His name will humble themselves and pray, He will hear from heaven, and He – as He’s always done before – He will heal our land."
One nation, under God, indivisible with liberty and justice
for all.” – Mike Pence
 This...is our new Vice President-Elect Mike Pence!
May God Bless our new Leaders.
And May God Bless America!
|
___________________________
Meet Your Next First Lady
Despite being married to the 45th President of the United States, Melania Trump is quite a person...a person who is HER OWN PERSON.
The mystery that comes with her reserved personality makes Melania an easy target as articles labeling her as a "mannequin" and condemning her silence are published daily.
Although the famous former model seems to have it all, Melania's testimony tells the story of someone who's struggled against all odds - and overcame.
When I learned the TRUTH about Melania Trump, I realized she was the kind of First Lady that America should know.
Melania Trump has graced the covers of the most prestigious fashion industry magazines.
But like many Americans today, Melania's success was the result of a courageous work ethic and humble beginnings.
Melanija Knavs was born on April 26, 1970 in the small Slovenian railroad town of Sevnica...
...long before she changed the spelling of her name to pursue a modeling career.
Despite the struggles many Slovenians faced during the country's Communist times, the Knavses worked extremely hard to give their children a positive upbringing.
Melania's mother, Amalija Ulcnik, worked developing patterns at a factory that manufactured children's clothing.
She had met Viktor Knavs in 1966 who worked as a chauffeur for a nearby town's mayor.
They instilled Melania and her sister with conservative values such as putting family first and having exceptional work ethic.
After looking at the picture of Melania's parents below, it's clear she inherited their timeless good looks too!
"I loved my childhood. It was a beautiful childhood," Melania said.
Her son, Barron (10), speaks Slovenian fluently and uses it to speak with his grandparents, who now live near the Trumps in New York at Trump Tower.
Melania's father left his job as a chauffeur to become a salesman at a state-owned car company in Ljubljana, Slovenia and found his family an apartment there - all to provide his children with exceptional education opportunities with their new prestigious address.
Amalija's career as a seamstress had a profound impact on Melania.
Once Melania learned to draw, she would sketch her own designs, and her mother or sister, Ines, would sew them.
Melania also made her own jewelry.
Amalija spent evenings after work sewing clothing for herself and her two daughters.
Instead of wearing clothes from the store, the Knavses designed and sewed everything they wore.
Melania's childhood friends remember her always being dressed elegantly and carrying herself with confidence - there was always something striking about her.
Melania's modeling career began when she was 16-years-old at a modeling contest when she attracted the attention of photographer Stane Jerko, whose test photos of the breathtaking teenager resulted in her signing with a modeling agency in Milan.
Despite her success as a model, Melania's goal was to become a designer.
So she applied to the School of Architecture at the University of Ljubljana in Slovenia, becoming one of the few to pass the school's notoriously difficult entrance exams.
While pursuing her degree in design and architecture, Melania remained focused on school.
She didn't drink, or party, nor did she smoke.
Even with the temptations surrounding her as a college student and successful model, Melania lived a quiet homebound life.
"She kept to herself, she was a loner. After a shoot or a class, she went home, not out. She didn't want to waste time partying," Jerko remembers.
After obtaining a degree in design and architecture at the University of Ljubljana, Melania was jetting between photo shoots in Paris and Milan...
...but Melania had even bigger dreams.
Melania knew that if she wanted to achieve her goals she would have to move to America.
Melania finally made it to New York in 1996 after landing an American modeling contract - but nothing could prepare for the struggles that were down the road.
Shortly after she began pursuing her modeling dreams in America, Melania struggled to find work because she was considered "too old."
The modeling industry isn't friendly to models once they hit their later twenties, and at just 26 years old, Melania was worried her best days were already behind her.
Melania went to castings every day, but photographers continued picking someone else over her, and often someone younger.
She was having a difficult time supporting herself, and endured the challenge of being overseas, away from her tight-knit family back in Slovenia.
Eventually, Melania got her "big break" and it wasn't long before she graced the magazines covers of Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, British GQ, In Style, New York Magazine, the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, Allure, Self, Glamour, Vanity Fair, and Elle.
But nothing could prepare her for the life-changing experience she would eventually encounter during her thriving modeling career…
While at a party during the New York Fashion Week in the fall of 1998, Melania met Donald Trump.
She was a tall, shy brunette at just 28-years old...
...while Trump was a brash 52-year-old real estate mogul.
"I didn't know much about Donald Trump," she says of their first encounter. "I had my life, I had my world. I didn't follow Donald Trump and what kind of life he had."
Although Trump attended the party with a date, he was instinctively drawn to Melania.
When Trump's date went to the bathroom, he seized the opportunity to chat for a few minutes with the Slovenian model he'd noticed.
When Trump's date went to the bathroom, he seized the opportunity to chat for a few minutes with the Slovenian model he'd noticed.
Unlike the women who swooned every time the famous billionaire approached them, Melania remained unimpressed.
When Trump asked for her number, she refused and instead asked for HIS contact information...
...she didn't want to be just another woman he called, and she waited an entire week before calling him.
...she didn't want to be just another woman he called, and she waited an entire week before calling him.
Melania was curious to see if Trump would submit a business number.
"I wanted to see what his intention was," she explains. "It tells you a lot about a man what kind of number he gives you. He gave me all of his numbers."
Melania's confidence and shocking reaction to the wealthy playboy made Trump even more attracted to her.
Trump could tell Melania was beautiful AND intelligent, and he was willing to do whatever it took to win her heart.
"I'm not star struck," she explains. "We had a great connection, we had great chemistry, but I was not star struck. And maybe he noticed that."
Many are quick to criticize Donald and Melania's marriage due to their age difference, but after learning more about Melania....it seems easier to understand that these two could have a future.
Melania's reserved personality and traditional values balance Trump's assertive personality and controversial behavior.
...and those traditional values could be seen in her absence from Trump's campaign trail.
Instead of being on the road with her husband, Melania chose to be at home in New York City to raise their 10-year-old son, Barron.
Despite the Trumps' luxurious lifestyle, Melania refuses to let their son be raised by a nanny.
"It's my choice not to be there [on the campaign trail]," Melania said. "I support my husband 100 percent, but … we have a 10-year-old son together, Barron, and I'm raising him."
"This is the age he needs a parent at home," she added.
When Donald Trump told his wife he wanted to run for president, Melania said they discussed it in depth and she encouraged him to run.
"I encouraged him because I know what he will do and what he can do for America," she said. "He loves the American people and he wants to help them."
Although she did not spend a great deal of time on the campaign trail, Melania stayed involved in her husband's campaign behind-the-scenes.
"She's told me a couple of times during the debate, she was very happy with my performances, if you would want to call them a performance," Donald Trump said.
"But she said, 'You could tone it down a little bit on occasion,' which I understand."
Melania revealed the biggest untruth about her husband is the perception that he's "nasty."
"He's not," Melania said. "He has a big and very warm heart."
"He is who he is," she says. "Even if you give him advice, he will maybe take it in, but then he will do it the way he wants to do it. You cannot change a person. Let them be. Let them be the way they are."
Melania's passion for philanthropy are just a glimpse of the difference she could make as our First Lady.
Some of the philanthropic causes she's been involved with include the Martha Graham Dance Company, the Police Athletic League, the Boys Club of New York, The American Red Cross and Love Our Children USA.
Though she may not have experience in politics, Melania Trump is equipped to help her husband out on the diplomatic front.
In addition to her native Slovenian, Melania speaks four other languages: English, French, Serbian and German.
"She's an incredible mother, she loves her son, Barron, so much.
And I have to say, she will make an unbelievable First Lady," Donald Trump said.
Melania Trump's life story is a vivid illustration of the American dream.
Her humble roots, exceptional work ethic, and devotion to family are attributes that describe "a person all of us should know".
She's a long way from her home in Slovenia, but after learning as much about her as we did, it certainly appears she will grace the White House in a manner Americans fell in love with another former First Lady named "Jackie".....
...and just as "Camelot" once had a "John John", we hope all of America will fall in love with his "replacement"...
Barron Trump
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From Isabel Friedlander...to...Anthem Opinions
Thanks. I didn't know any of that. -
From Margaret McKee...to...Anthem Opinions
Extremely interesting article. -
From Buddy Greenfield...to...Anthem Opinions
Nicely said. -
From George Jacobs of Cleveland, OH...to...Anthem Opinions
Nice article with loads of information. Thanks for your research. -
From Denise Munns...to...Anthem Opinions
Thank you.
I hope the people that disparaged her read this informative article.
Well written Dick! I read every word.
Great story Dick.
I would have loved to talk to your Mom.
Happy Birthday Rose!
Very nice article Dick. I really enjoyed reading it.
Happy 4th to you and Marla.
Oh my Heavenly Father, Dick!
What a wonderful piece and memorial to your Mom!
May God be with you, Dear Friend!
Here's a beautiful piece by Charlie Daniels demonstrating how all of us are so fortunate to live in the Land of the Free.
Congratulations on a most touching and beautiful story for the 4th.
It tells in so few words, the great heritage of this country.
My maternal grandparents arrived in the late 1800's through Ellis Island.
If they could have seen the future they brought to America they, humble trades people, started generations of professionals who have given back to this country more than a thousand fold for allowing my grandparents to settle here.
Thank you Dick for the story and thank you America!
Borrowing words of George M. Cohan...
My mother thanks you, my father thanks you, my brother thanks you....and I...thank you.