Saturday, October 24, 2009
Military Moms
This was on Glenn Beck tonight and I was blown away by it. I strongly urge you all to see this as it brings the deserved attention to our military which they richly deserve. Since it was offered by Military Moms and carries the imprimatur of mothers everywhere, it reduces the problems in our military, encouraged by our administration, to an entirely human component which can be achieved by no other group--moms.
It runs in the neighborhood of 3 min., is well produced and carries an urgent and important message. No one understands a man as well as his mother. No one has the vested interest in his present and his future as a result of the intimacy of his past. Click that link and listen and see those who love them most express themselves.
In His abiding love,
Cecil Moon
Cool Things the “One” Has Accomplished
There is a wealth of criticism for the president on these pages. We do not want to appear unduly (no relation to Tom Dooley) biased so here is a list of things which he has done for the country and the world which have been overlooked on these pages previously.
He lost the Olympics for Chicago but did get the committee to agree to include male synchronized swimming in the next summer event.
He demonstrated the value of Styrofoam temples for Greek Gods and presidential candidates.
At long last we now have a czar to open pickle jars.
He aided the Portuguese Water Dog industry without using the word “trillion” in the financing.
He vetoed the bill to provide pom-pom’s for presidential speeches.
He wisely decided not to leave Michelle and the kids and elope to Miami with Barney Frank.
He agreed to never embarrass the nation again by going anywhere near a bowling alley—or throw an “opening day” first pitch.
In a long awaited announcement concerning things which really scare him, he admitted that Nancy Pelosi is at the top of the list.
He banned plumbers from his list of consultants.
He publicly announced that he would no longer consider “Monty Python” a credible news source.
To appease English teachers nationwide, he announced a campaign to eliminate “You betcha” from common usage.
He signed an agreement with Fisher Price to market a new product, “My First Teleprompter” to their line of preschool toys.
See, we are not nearly as one-sided as you thought. Much of the material for this post was inspired by ideas found in IMAO by Frank J. and his commenters. I dare you to look and see what his theme was.
In His abiding love,
Cecil Moon
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Liberal vs. Conservative
Some wonderful friends in Iowa sent a critical statement on the differences between liberals and conservatives.. I am grateful that they recognized this definitive statement on what separates the two. Read through it and see whether you agree..
“If a conservative doesn't like guns, he doesn’t buy one.
If a liberal doesn't like guns, he wants all guns outlawed.
If a conservative is a vegetarian, he doesn’t eat meat.
If a liberal is a vegetarian, he wants all meat products banned for everyone.
If a conservative sees a foreign threat, he thinks about how to defeat his enemy.
A liberal wonders how to surrender gracefully and still look good.
If a conservative is homosexual, he quietly leads his life.
If a liberal is homosexual, he demands legislated respect.
If a black or Hispanic are conservative, they see themselves as independently successful.
Their liberal counterparts see themselves as victims in need of government protection.
If a conservative is down-and-out, he thinks about how to better his situation.
A liberal wonders who is going to take care of him.
If a conservative doesn't like a talk show host, he switches channels.
Liberals demand that those they don't like be shut down.
If a conservative is a non-believer, he doesn't go to church.
A liberal non-believer wants any mention of God and religion silenced. (Unless it's a foreign religion, of course!)
If a conservative decides he needs health care, he goes about shopping for it, or may choose a job that provides it.
A liberal demands that the rest of us pay for his.
If a conservative slips and falls in a store, he gets up, laughs and is embarrassed.
If a liberal slips and falls, he grabs his neck, moans like he's in labor and then sues.
If a conservative reads this, he'll laugh and share it with his friends.
A liberal will kiss it off because he's "offended".”
My conclusion: sometimes I get junk in my inbox and sometimes I get wisdom.
In His abiding love,
Cecil Moon
“If a conservative doesn't like guns, he doesn’t buy one.
If a liberal doesn't like guns, he wants all guns outlawed.
If a conservative is a vegetarian, he doesn’t eat meat.
If a liberal is a vegetarian, he wants all meat products banned for everyone.
If a conservative sees a foreign threat, he thinks about how to defeat his enemy.
A liberal wonders how to surrender gracefully and still look good.
If a conservative is homosexual, he quietly leads his life.
If a liberal is homosexual, he demands legislated respect.
If a black or Hispanic are conservative, they see themselves as independently successful.
Their liberal counterparts see themselves as victims in need of government protection.
If a conservative is down-and-out, he thinks about how to better his situation.
A liberal wonders who is going to take care of him.
If a conservative doesn't like a talk show host, he switches channels.
Liberals demand that those they don't like be shut down.
If a conservative is a non-believer, he doesn't go to church.
A liberal non-believer wants any mention of God and religion silenced. (Unless it's a foreign religion, of course!)
If a conservative decides he needs health care, he goes about shopping for it, or may choose a job that provides it.
A liberal demands that the rest of us pay for his.
If a conservative slips and falls in a store, he gets up, laughs and is embarrassed.
If a liberal slips and falls, he grabs his neck, moans like he's in labor and then sues.
If a conservative reads this, he'll laugh and share it with his friends.
A liberal will kiss it off because he's "offended".”
My conclusion: sometimes I get junk in my inbox and sometimes I get wisdom.
In His abiding love,
Cecil Moon
The Importance of Green Freedom
With the headlong rush to conquer problems raised by fossil fuels: bans on drilling, lengthy transportation issues, regulatory restrictions, and diminishing existing supplies, we have observed some unusual occurrences in the development of viable alternatives. With massive government subsidies available, we find the green fuel industry burgeoning. The pioneering states have had varied success.
Normally, we would look to California to capitalize on natural resources to enhance their energy capacity. Back in the seventies I vividly recall my son, the newly named manager of a chain store in Sacramento, calling to brag that his large operation had the lowest electric costs of any of the many chain stores in the entire system. As a manager in one of the other stores I took particular interest. He explained it was the result of an efficient nuclear power generating facility which was hugely cost effective. As the third place cost component, after lease and payroll, it was a significant factor in the computation of year end bonuses.
That was then and this is now. Long ago, California was a totally different world. They have implemented onerous restrictions, not only on further nuclear development, but also regulatory oversight on any new eco-friendly technology. At about the same time they were host to a pioneering wind farm which held great promise for the future due to natural prevailing wind sources. Upon the deaths of unwary species of birds, the environmentalists backed further and further regulation upon operating hours, turbine speeds and even closing down some operations.
Many other attempts to harness the natural energy sources have wound up the victims of the same fate. The huge deserts were seen as a natural site for arrays of energy absorbing solar panels. But no; the renewable energy backers provided their own opposition. The protection of desert rats, bugs, and a turtle or two became a higher priority than renewables. Even the placement of transmission lines became an impediment to progress. As a consequence, another layer of regulatory bans was put in place. Even geo-thermal projects came under the eco-gun to complete the picture.
So who then is the number one producer of renewable energy? Texas! Even more amazing is the number two spot in wind power—Iowa! In Texas, we find a location long absorbed by energy production so it should not come as any real surprise if you think about it. But Iowa in the number two spot? That does not include figures to include corn production for ethanol. That would be easily understood. I spent my boyhood in Iowa and find the thought astonishing.
As we look for reasons for these placings, it eventually comes down to over-regulation vs. the freeing of markets. Each layer of bureaucratic interference serves little purpose other than to block the wind and cloud the solar panels. The paradox lies in the acknowledgment that the principle promoters of these alternatives are the same people who advocate not implementing them. In a relatively regulatory free atmosphere provided by historical supremacy in the generation of energy we find Texas in the lead.
The exploits of Texas “wild-catters” moving from “hole” to “hole” in search of black gold has left a legacy of non-interference by local government. You can’t tax the profits from a dry hole. You can take the tax levy on a successful operation and build a new local school house or a civic center. With community backing of entrepreneurship everyone shares some of the bounty.
By allowing the narrowly focused self-interest of a few dedicated greenies to shape their energy policy, states influenced excessively by them are doomed to unending problems. It does not serve the “general welfare” to place ever more restrictive covenants in place to bar further development of valuable resources. From a federal prospective, an ever enlarging energy base will eventually call for lessening the huge subsidies now allocated for their development. While that would be disastrous for Al Gore’s stock portfolio it would be a boon for the nation and its liberty loving people.
In His abiding love,
Cecil Moon
Normally, we would look to California to capitalize on natural resources to enhance their energy capacity. Back in the seventies I vividly recall my son, the newly named manager of a chain store in Sacramento, calling to brag that his large operation had the lowest electric costs of any of the many chain stores in the entire system. As a manager in one of the other stores I took particular interest. He explained it was the result of an efficient nuclear power generating facility which was hugely cost effective. As the third place cost component, after lease and payroll, it was a significant factor in the computation of year end bonuses.
That was then and this is now. Long ago, California was a totally different world. They have implemented onerous restrictions, not only on further nuclear development, but also regulatory oversight on any new eco-friendly technology. At about the same time they were host to a pioneering wind farm which held great promise for the future due to natural prevailing wind sources. Upon the deaths of unwary species of birds, the environmentalists backed further and further regulation upon operating hours, turbine speeds and even closing down some operations.
Many other attempts to harness the natural energy sources have wound up the victims of the same fate. The huge deserts were seen as a natural site for arrays of energy absorbing solar panels. But no; the renewable energy backers provided their own opposition. The protection of desert rats, bugs, and a turtle or two became a higher priority than renewables. Even the placement of transmission lines became an impediment to progress. As a consequence, another layer of regulatory bans was put in place. Even geo-thermal projects came under the eco-gun to complete the picture.
So who then is the number one producer of renewable energy? Texas! Even more amazing is the number two spot in wind power—Iowa! In Texas, we find a location long absorbed by energy production so it should not come as any real surprise if you think about it. But Iowa in the number two spot? That does not include figures to include corn production for ethanol. That would be easily understood. I spent my boyhood in Iowa and find the thought astonishing.
As we look for reasons for these placings, it eventually comes down to over-regulation vs. the freeing of markets. Each layer of bureaucratic interference serves little purpose other than to block the wind and cloud the solar panels. The paradox lies in the acknowledgment that the principle promoters of these alternatives are the same people who advocate not implementing them. In a relatively regulatory free atmosphere provided by historical supremacy in the generation of energy we find Texas in the lead.
The exploits of Texas “wild-catters” moving from “hole” to “hole” in search of black gold has left a legacy of non-interference by local government. You can’t tax the profits from a dry hole. You can take the tax levy on a successful operation and build a new local school house or a civic center. With community backing of entrepreneurship everyone shares some of the bounty.
By allowing the narrowly focused self-interest of a few dedicated greenies to shape their energy policy, states influenced excessively by them are doomed to unending problems. It does not serve the “general welfare” to place ever more restrictive covenants in place to bar further development of valuable resources. From a federal prospective, an ever enlarging energy base will eventually call for lessening the huge subsidies now allocated for their development. While that would be disastrous for Al Gore’s stock portfolio it would be a boon for the nation and its liberty loving people.
In His abiding love,
Cecil Moon
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Man Arrested for Being Naked in His Own Kitchen
This little kerfuffle may seem trivial to many but I find it symptomatic of what ails America today. Read the following and we shall offer our two cents in conclusion:
Radley Balko
October 21, 2009
"Springfield, Virginia resident Eric Williamson was arrested and charged with indecent exposure yesterday for failing to put on any clothes after getting up at 5:30 am to make some coffee. A woman and her 7-year-old daughter had cut across Williamson's front yard and saw him through his kitchen window.
If convicted, Williamson could be fined $2,000 and spend a year in jail.
Fairfax police say Williamson wanted to be seen naked. Which I guess means Williamson's front yard is a pretty popular spot at 5:30 in the morning."
The first question which comes to mind is why the police would accept any charge from an acknowledged lawbreaker? She and her kid readily admit to unlawful trespass to even see the guy in the kitchen. Had he given them permission to cut across his lawn? If not, what were they doing there at 5:30 am?
The larger issue is the allegation that “Williamson wanted to be seen naked.” Do police in Fairfax County have an innate capacity for discernment to reveal the desires in the innermost reaches of the human mind? Did the Amazing Kreskin train them? Does one normally anticipate an audience at that hour for cavorting in the nude? While he was in a lit space, (assumed) the woman and the kid were outside in the dark. How did he know they were there? Oh, that’s right; he had his Captain Midnight “see in the dark” glasses on.
In a free country with a history of inviolate privacy rights the expectation of privacy is assumed in one’s home. In this end of the Ozarks, looking into the windows of other peoples houses is called: window peeking. Here it is against the law. I guess in the more civilized areas of the country it is called “law-enforcement.”
If this was a grudge issue on the part of the trespasser, I would suggest that willingly exposing a female child to a naked man makes the woman complicit in the corruption of a minor. Do we allow people to use children in an act to extract vengeance on a neighbor? Has the Springfield Police Department considered bringing justifiable charges against her?
Allow me to point out that Fairfax County is adjacent to Washington, D.C... This brings “petty” to its penultimate conclusion. There is so much here which denies the possibility of a “righteous” bust that it boggles the mind. I pray that there is more to this than is reported here. God help us if this is the direction we are going in our country.
In His abiding love,
Cecil Moon
Radley Balko
October 21, 2009
"Springfield, Virginia resident Eric Williamson was arrested and charged with indecent exposure yesterday for failing to put on any clothes after getting up at 5:30 am to make some coffee. A woman and her 7-year-old daughter had cut across Williamson's front yard and saw him through his kitchen window.
If convicted, Williamson could be fined $2,000 and spend a year in jail.
Fairfax police say Williamson wanted to be seen naked. Which I guess means Williamson's front yard is a pretty popular spot at 5:30 in the morning."
The first question which comes to mind is why the police would accept any charge from an acknowledged lawbreaker? She and her kid readily admit to unlawful trespass to even see the guy in the kitchen. Had he given them permission to cut across his lawn? If not, what were they doing there at 5:30 am?
The larger issue is the allegation that “Williamson wanted to be seen naked.” Do police in Fairfax County have an innate capacity for discernment to reveal the desires in the innermost reaches of the human mind? Did the Amazing Kreskin train them? Does one normally anticipate an audience at that hour for cavorting in the nude? While he was in a lit space, (assumed) the woman and the kid were outside in the dark. How did he know they were there? Oh, that’s right; he had his Captain Midnight “see in the dark” glasses on.
In a free country with a history of inviolate privacy rights the expectation of privacy is assumed in one’s home. In this end of the Ozarks, looking into the windows of other peoples houses is called: window peeking. Here it is against the law. I guess in the more civilized areas of the country it is called “law-enforcement.”
If this was a grudge issue on the part of the trespasser, I would suggest that willingly exposing a female child to a naked man makes the woman complicit in the corruption of a minor. Do we allow people to use children in an act to extract vengeance on a neighbor? Has the Springfield Police Department considered bringing justifiable charges against her?
Allow me to point out that Fairfax County is adjacent to Washington, D.C... This brings “petty” to its penultimate conclusion. There is so much here which denies the possibility of a “righteous” bust that it boggles the mind. I pray that there is more to this than is reported here. God help us if this is the direction we are going in our country.
In His abiding love,
Cecil Moon
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Lies and Damned Liars
In my life I have know some guys (and gals too) who could really spin a tall tale. Most of them were fairly innocent and passed off as “that’s just Homer.” For a fish to grow a foot between the deep well and the frying pan is not unusual in this end of the Ozarks. We have seen many an “abdominal pain” grow into a hulking 6 footer in under fifteen years. We tolerate these “exaggerations” from crazy uncles and self-aggrandizing friends with patience, understanding and self-contained giggles.
Somehow, it becomes far less tolerable when the source of prevarication is a person in authority in the administration. When an individual lies to promote an agenda it is reprehensible but when that same person encourages others to repeat his sinful behavior it is, or should be, criminal.
In comments about conservative assaults on Van Jones and Sergant, Robert Gibbs said, “I think it’s a shame to watch what they (Fox News) do — I think it’s a shame. I hope that as people watch, they’ll match up some of the actual truth to what is being said on some of these occasions and start to provide a little reality check to some of what’s going on.” In a rare moment of lucidity, which even Obama saw in the Van Jones case, the “shame” entailed pointing out a race baiting communist taking a high position in our government. Yes, it is our “government of the people, by the people and for the people.” Gibbs, give me a break!
This comment was directed to editors and reporters of CNN, ABC, NBC, CBS, newspapers and web sites, to encourage them to report the left-wing upside of the news as opposed to faithfully reporting the truth. Conspicuous by their absence were Fox News, the legion of conservative websites, radio talk show hosts, and citizen journalists who have provided such a thorn in his side with the prickly truth.
One can only wonder if the carrot he dangled had any relationship to a bailout of some of these failing “news” sources. As usual, his attempt at subtlety was a ham-fisted, blatant attempt. Seizure of all news sources is a popular action for tin pot dictators and just about anybody attempting a bloodless coup which invariably turns into the rape of a nation. Failure to recognize this modus operendi can only result in an uninformed public who will sit idly by and become subjugated.
This is only one small example of the attempt by these people to gain complete control. As the American people slowly—and it is slow—come to realize what is taking place, we, with the help of Almighty God may be able to recover our sanity and awareness and do that which we have to do to regain our nation. Be alert, spread the news, and do whatever you can to resist while you are able.
In His abiding love,
Cecil Moon
Somehow, it becomes far less tolerable when the source of prevarication is a person in authority in the administration. When an individual lies to promote an agenda it is reprehensible but when that same person encourages others to repeat his sinful behavior it is, or should be, criminal.
In comments about conservative assaults on Van Jones and Sergant, Robert Gibbs said, “I think it’s a shame to watch what they (Fox News) do — I think it’s a shame. I hope that as people watch, they’ll match up some of the actual truth to what is being said on some of these occasions and start to provide a little reality check to some of what’s going on.” In a rare moment of lucidity, which even Obama saw in the Van Jones case, the “shame” entailed pointing out a race baiting communist taking a high position in our government. Yes, it is our “government of the people, by the people and for the people.” Gibbs, give me a break!
This comment was directed to editors and reporters of CNN, ABC, NBC, CBS, newspapers and web sites, to encourage them to report the left-wing upside of the news as opposed to faithfully reporting the truth. Conspicuous by their absence were Fox News, the legion of conservative websites, radio talk show hosts, and citizen journalists who have provided such a thorn in his side with the prickly truth.
One can only wonder if the carrot he dangled had any relationship to a bailout of some of these failing “news” sources. As usual, his attempt at subtlety was a ham-fisted, blatant attempt. Seizure of all news sources is a popular action for tin pot dictators and just about anybody attempting a bloodless coup which invariably turns into the rape of a nation. Failure to recognize this modus operendi can only result in an uninformed public who will sit idly by and become subjugated.
This is only one small example of the attempt by these people to gain complete control. As the American people slowly—and it is slow—come to realize what is taking place, we, with the help of Almighty God may be able to recover our sanity and awareness and do that which we have to do to regain our nation. Be alert, spread the news, and do whatever you can to resist while you are able.
In His abiding love,
Cecil Moon
Monday, October 19, 2009
Oath Keepers
Prompted by an organization formed for the purpose of reminding those of us who have taken an oath, it is time to examine just what these various oaths entail. To avoid any confusion about their intent I submit the exact context of several oaths which are administered to various different holders of public responsibility.
Leading the list is that taken by the President of the United States upon his inauguration.
I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my Ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.
For senators, representatives and others in high level positions of federal government is this oath.
I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office on which I am about to enter. So help me God.
For officers in the United States Military, this is the oath:
I, [name], do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United Statesagainst all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office on which I am about to enter. So help me God.
The oath taken by enlisted members of the military is as follows:
I, (name), do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; and that I will obey the orders of the President of the United States and the orders of the officers appointed over me, according to regulations and the Uniform Code of Military Justice. So help me God.[1]
The oaths of office of the several states’ officials mimic the above and often include addition of allegiance to individual states as well. The variance between the oaths is principally in the “so help me God” which is statutorily optional. Although the affirmation is not required, it is not prohibited either.
These oaths are a statutory requirement in accordance with:
TITLE 5 > PART III > Subpart B > CHAPTER 33 > SUBCHAPTER II > § 3331
§ 3331. Oath of office
An individual, except the President, elected or appointed to an office of honor or profit in the civil service or uniformed services, shall take the following oath: “I, AB, do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office on which I am about to enter. So help me God.” This section does not affect other oaths required by law.
These vows are faithfully reproduced here to leave little doubt as to their nature and their intent. To arrive at a total figure for the number of Americans who have taken these oaths we find active military at 1.5 million, living veterans at 23.5 million, 20 million civilian employees of the federal, state & local government or about 45 million minimum who have sworn to uphold the constitution. To this one would add retired former government employees.
These commitments have been made by a substantial block of American society. In addition, all naturalized citizens have also sworn allegiance to the United States. The final total may well represent a number equivalent to the total vote registered for a single candidate in a presidential election.
This is the fledgling organization which is making an impact called Oath Keepers. Their swelling membership roles are comprised of those who take that original oath very seriously. They readily recognize variance between the language of these oaths and the realities being practiced by those in high office. Their purpose in being is to urge those who have taken those oaths to live up to their commitments. Their respect for the Constitution of the United States is unconditional and not subject to any time constraints nor affected by current employment.
They are repeatedly under attack from leftist organizations who paint them as right-wing extremists, hate mongers, and racists. Even agencies of the federal government have subjected them to intense scrutiny—the Department of Homeland Security for example. This is akin to the reckless branding of all military veterans as potential terrorists. As they continue to enlarge their ranks it is certain that the surveillance of the organization will increase.
It appears that those on the left and the current administration (Ed: isn’t that redundant?) are alarmed by a huge segment of the population who are well versed on the constitution and rigidly faithful to the basic principles of liberty in a free society. Of particular concern is the statutory mandate that no person is required to indulge any order which results in lawbreaking. The seizing of legal arms from citizens without cause (e.g. Katrina victims in New Orleans), illegal search and seizure (e.g. DHS regulations, especially in airport security), and other violations of constitutional protections are of special concern to the new organization. Please note that these complaints mentioned were under the administration of George Bush and no effort has been made by the current president or congress to remedy these outrages.
As this group gains strength and membership, be prepared to hear continued trashing of their aims ands motives. They operate under a typical corporate structure and are non-military in their organizational make-up. Their sole aim is apparently to restore those liberties and freedoms which have made our country exceptional.
I urge you to do your own research and investigate for yourself what these people hope to achieve. The only reason to do so is to save our nation from itself. Remember, all of those who have taken the oath, except the president, have sworn to “defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic.”
In His abiding love,
Cecil Moon
Leading the list is that taken by the President of the United States upon his inauguration.
I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my Ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.
For senators, representatives and others in high level positions of federal government is this oath.
I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office on which I am about to enter. So help me God.
For officers in the United States Military, this is the oath:
I, [name], do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United Statesagainst all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office on which I am about to enter. So help me God.
The oath taken by enlisted members of the military is as follows:
I, (name), do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; and that I will obey the orders of the President of the United States and the orders of the officers appointed over me, according to regulations and the Uniform Code of Military Justice. So help me God.[1]
The oaths of office of the several states’ officials mimic the above and often include addition of allegiance to individual states as well. The variance between the oaths is principally in the “so help me God” which is statutorily optional. Although the affirmation is not required, it is not prohibited either.
These oaths are a statutory requirement in accordance with:
TITLE 5 > PART III > Subpart B > CHAPTER 33 > SUBCHAPTER II > § 3331
§ 3331. Oath of office
An individual, except the President, elected or appointed to an office of honor or profit in the civil service or uniformed services, shall take the following oath: “I, AB, do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office on which I am about to enter. So help me God.” This section does not affect other oaths required by law.
These vows are faithfully reproduced here to leave little doubt as to their nature and their intent. To arrive at a total figure for the number of Americans who have taken these oaths we find active military at 1.5 million, living veterans at 23.5 million, 20 million civilian employees of the federal, state & local government or about 45 million minimum who have sworn to uphold the constitution. To this one would add retired former government employees.
These commitments have been made by a substantial block of American society. In addition, all naturalized citizens have also sworn allegiance to the United States. The final total may well represent a number equivalent to the total vote registered for a single candidate in a presidential election.
This is the fledgling organization which is making an impact called Oath Keepers. Their swelling membership roles are comprised of those who take that original oath very seriously. They readily recognize variance between the language of these oaths and the realities being practiced by those in high office. Their purpose in being is to urge those who have taken those oaths to live up to their commitments. Their respect for the Constitution of the United States is unconditional and not subject to any time constraints nor affected by current employment.
They are repeatedly under attack from leftist organizations who paint them as right-wing extremists, hate mongers, and racists. Even agencies of the federal government have subjected them to intense scrutiny—the Department of Homeland Security for example. This is akin to the reckless branding of all military veterans as potential terrorists. As they continue to enlarge their ranks it is certain that the surveillance of the organization will increase.
It appears that those on the left and the current administration (Ed: isn’t that redundant?) are alarmed by a huge segment of the population who are well versed on the constitution and rigidly faithful to the basic principles of liberty in a free society. Of particular concern is the statutory mandate that no person is required to indulge any order which results in lawbreaking. The seizing of legal arms from citizens without cause (e.g. Katrina victims in New Orleans), illegal search and seizure (e.g. DHS regulations, especially in airport security), and other violations of constitutional protections are of special concern to the new organization. Please note that these complaints mentioned were under the administration of George Bush and no effort has been made by the current president or congress to remedy these outrages.
As this group gains strength and membership, be prepared to hear continued trashing of their aims ands motives. They operate under a typical corporate structure and are non-military in their organizational make-up. Their sole aim is apparently to restore those liberties and freedoms which have made our country exceptional.
I urge you to do your own research and investigate for yourself what these people hope to achieve. The only reason to do so is to save our nation from itself. Remember, all of those who have taken the oath, except the president, have sworn to “defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic.”
In His abiding love,
Cecil Moon
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Monday Morning Rant 115
Good grief, what a week. Tuesday led off with an auto accident which put my bride in the hospital for a couple of days with painful, but thankfully, not life threatening injuries. A compression fracture of a peripheral spinal bone does require a back brace, the constant attendance of a care giver—me, and the offering of constant prayers for a satisfactory recovery. We are both by now pretty much settled in to the routine and anticipate an unencumbered healing with the aid of God.
As the week wore on, we found Rush Limbaugh eased (forced?) out of negotiations as part of a buying group to acquire the St. Louis Rams. Attendant to the foregoing, we saw Juan Williams, formerly with NPR, vigorously defending Rush and deploring racist mis-quotes from his detractors. We observed the president responding to the request for troop enhancement from the commanding general in Afghanistan with that which he does best, talk, talk and more talk. In what has been a continuing parade, it was unearthed that a woman, inspired by the philosophy of Mao, had been appointed to a czar’s post in the White House. Not least, we heard the president attempt to explain a middle-schooler’s question of “why do they hate you?”
As I recently mentioned, we find we have a laugh a minute with this administration. Remember the old SNL line: “it’s always somthin’?” The production of distraction is a constant with these guys. The Senate committee produces an acceptable "aye" vote on a bill which has not been written and remains without form or substance on socialized medicine.
The gullible news services were taken in by that American staple, the missing or endangered child, only this time it was a runaway balloon. We faithfully followed the story with our hearts and not our heads. This kid’s parents should be in stocks in the public square after their flogging. As I said: “what a week!”
Save the Environment—Steal a Golf Cart
I’ll bet you thought that government idiocy ended with “Cash for Clunkers.” Silly you. The insanity continues as we look at one of the new environmental programs to lessen that nasty CO2. The following is from the Wall Street Journal:
“We thought cash for clunkers was the ultimate waste of taxpayer money, but as usual we were too optimistic. Thanks to the federal tax credit to buy high-mileage cars that was part of President Obama's stimulus plan, Uncle Sam is now paying Americans to buy that great necessity of modern life, the golf cart.
The federal credit provides from $4,200 to $5,500 for the purchase of an electric vehicle, and when it is combined with similar incentive plans in many states the tax credits can pay for nearly the entire cost of a golf cart. Even in states that don't have their own tax rebate plans, the federal credit is generous enough to pay for half or even two-thirds of the average sticker price of a cart, which is typically in the range of $8,000 to $10,000. "The purchase of some models could be absolutely free," Roger Gaddis of Ada Electric Cars in Oklahoma said earlier this year. "Is that about the coolest thing you've ever heard?"
The golf-cart boom has followed an IRS ruling that golf carts qualify for the electric-car credit as long as they are also road worthy. These qualifying golf carts are essentially the same as normal golf carts save for adding some safety features, such as side and rearview mirrors and three-point seat belts. They typically can go 15 to 25 miles per hour.”
To continue reading the entire article, click here for tips on how to make a couple of grand. Hey, it’s OK, it’s rich people’s money, right Barry.?
For those unfamiliar with golf carts, as a former course employee and an avid golfer let me say that anyone who would take these out on the street for transportation for the most limited trip should have his head examined. Any energy savings is far offset by the increase costs of crippling injuries acquired in a collision with—well, just about anything more substantial than a Dixie cup.
Golfers, get ‘em while they're hot! Your tax dollars at work!
Are You Hot Yet?
The last 700 words should be enough to bring your blood to a boil. If not, your tolerance for ignorance, usurpation of our government, selfishness, arrogance, and un-American activities is far greater than mine. I stay angry just writing this stuff. Most of us, who write for blogs or comment on others, have a release in just putting our frustrations on the computer screen for all to see. I would like to believe that it is a desire to share and inform which is the motivation. Sometimes, however, I just want to get it off my chest.
Sooner or later we each have a desire, within our own limitations, to turn thoughts into actions. If you see yourself as limited to writing one single letter to a representative—do it! If you are asked to sign a petition and you agree with it—sign it! If you can go to a Tea Party or visit an official’s office and just be counted as one in attendance—do it! If you have organizational skills or administrative talents—exercise them! If you have a few extra bucks you’re not using—send them to an active organization with your shared beliefs!
No one is asking you to take the musket from the rack over the fireplace—yet! Your blood is not being summoned so far and if we all act in concert to defeat this takeover it will not be called for. It is our solemn duty to do all that is within our individual power to express ourselves. If you do not scream, you will not be heard. The time has come to find out if we are willing to mirror those patriots of old who pledged “their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor.” I think we are—just do it!
And Finally,
I really wasn’t fully aware of how continuously wet this autumn has been so far until I glanced out the back door last night before sundown. The brilliant setting sun, unencumbered by moisture in the air, picked every last iota of color in the trees as it was reflected directly in blaze of the setting sun. A very recently trimmed corridor of oaks and smaller miscellaneous trees exists on either side of the incoming power line coming up the bluff from the pole near the bottom road. It seemed as if each leaf struggled to proclaim its individual identity and assert its own shape and special color.
Later as I walked the dogs that night, I glanced into what we call “the grove” and for the first time noted a vertical gap between two tall slender oaks. In the crystal clear moonless sky was the dipper with the handle between the trees in the gap with the cup perched on top. Either for lack of a sky so acutely clear or inattention, I had never seen it in our six years on this property. I always enjoy the star-gazing opportunities when I am in the desert southwest but found last night’s sky equally fascinating.
It all serves to remind that it is still God’s world, and His will will be done.
In His abiding love,
Cecil Moon
As the week wore on, we found Rush Limbaugh eased (forced?) out of negotiations as part of a buying group to acquire the St. Louis Rams. Attendant to the foregoing, we saw Juan Williams, formerly with NPR, vigorously defending Rush and deploring racist mis-quotes from his detractors. We observed the president responding to the request for troop enhancement from the commanding general in Afghanistan with that which he does best, talk, talk and more talk. In what has been a continuing parade, it was unearthed that a woman, inspired by the philosophy of Mao, had been appointed to a czar’s post in the White House. Not least, we heard the president attempt to explain a middle-schooler’s question of “why do they hate you?”
As I recently mentioned, we find we have a laugh a minute with this administration. Remember the old SNL line: “it’s always somthin’?” The production of distraction is a constant with these guys. The Senate committee produces an acceptable "aye" vote on a bill which has not been written and remains without form or substance on socialized medicine.
The gullible news services were taken in by that American staple, the missing or endangered child, only this time it was a runaway balloon. We faithfully followed the story with our hearts and not our heads. This kid’s parents should be in stocks in the public square after their flogging. As I said: “what a week!”
Save the Environment—Steal a Golf Cart
I’ll bet you thought that government idiocy ended with “Cash for Clunkers.” Silly you. The insanity continues as we look at one of the new environmental programs to lessen that nasty CO2. The following is from the Wall Street Journal:
“We thought cash for clunkers was the ultimate waste of taxpayer money, but as usual we were too optimistic. Thanks to the federal tax credit to buy high-mileage cars that was part of President Obama's stimulus plan, Uncle Sam is now paying Americans to buy that great necessity of modern life, the golf cart.
The federal credit provides from $4,200 to $5,500 for the purchase of an electric vehicle, and when it is combined with similar incentive plans in many states the tax credits can pay for nearly the entire cost of a golf cart. Even in states that don't have their own tax rebate plans, the federal credit is generous enough to pay for half or even two-thirds of the average sticker price of a cart, which is typically in the range of $8,000 to $10,000. "The purchase of some models could be absolutely free," Roger Gaddis of Ada Electric Cars in Oklahoma said earlier this year. "Is that about the coolest thing you've ever heard?"
The golf-cart boom has followed an IRS ruling that golf carts qualify for the electric-car credit as long as they are also road worthy. These qualifying golf carts are essentially the same as normal golf carts save for adding some safety features, such as side and rearview mirrors and three-point seat belts. They typically can go 15 to 25 miles per hour.”
To continue reading the entire article, click here for tips on how to make a couple of grand. Hey, it’s OK, it’s rich people’s money, right Barry.?
For those unfamiliar with golf carts, as a former course employee and an avid golfer let me say that anyone who would take these out on the street for transportation for the most limited trip should have his head examined. Any energy savings is far offset by the increase costs of crippling injuries acquired in a collision with—well, just about anything more substantial than a Dixie cup.
Golfers, get ‘em while they're hot! Your tax dollars at work!
Are You Hot Yet?
The last 700 words should be enough to bring your blood to a boil. If not, your tolerance for ignorance, usurpation of our government, selfishness, arrogance, and un-American activities is far greater than mine. I stay angry just writing this stuff. Most of us, who write for blogs or comment on others, have a release in just putting our frustrations on the computer screen for all to see. I would like to believe that it is a desire to share and inform which is the motivation. Sometimes, however, I just want to get it off my chest.
Sooner or later we each have a desire, within our own limitations, to turn thoughts into actions. If you see yourself as limited to writing one single letter to a representative—do it! If you are asked to sign a petition and you agree with it—sign it! If you can go to a Tea Party or visit an official’s office and just be counted as one in attendance—do it! If you have organizational skills or administrative talents—exercise them! If you have a few extra bucks you’re not using—send them to an active organization with your shared beliefs!
No one is asking you to take the musket from the rack over the fireplace—yet! Your blood is not being summoned so far and if we all act in concert to defeat this takeover it will not be called for. It is our solemn duty to do all that is within our individual power to express ourselves. If you do not scream, you will not be heard. The time has come to find out if we are willing to mirror those patriots of old who pledged “their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor.” I think we are—just do it!
And Finally,
I really wasn’t fully aware of how continuously wet this autumn has been so far until I glanced out the back door last night before sundown. The brilliant setting sun, unencumbered by moisture in the air, picked every last iota of color in the trees as it was reflected directly in blaze of the setting sun. A very recently trimmed corridor of oaks and smaller miscellaneous trees exists on either side of the incoming power line coming up the bluff from the pole near the bottom road. It seemed as if each leaf struggled to proclaim its individual identity and assert its own shape and special color.
Later as I walked the dogs that night, I glanced into what we call “the grove” and for the first time noted a vertical gap between two tall slender oaks. In the crystal clear moonless sky was the dipper with the handle between the trees in the gap with the cup perched on top. Either for lack of a sky so acutely clear or inattention, I had never seen it in our six years on this property. I always enjoy the star-gazing opportunities when I am in the desert southwest but found last night’s sky equally fascinating.
It all serves to remind that it is still God’s world, and His will will be done.
In His abiding love,
Cecil Moon
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