Stand Up Be Read

Is the United States a Country of Laws? (commentary written for CNB 3/5/2011)

2011-03-05T14:27:00.000-08:00

By: Nickie Summers

The U.S. Constitution was carefully written by our country’s Founding Fathers to guarantee the rights and freedom of our people and strictly limit the power of government. Their intent was to create a Republic, a country of laws where the government works for and is responsible to the will of the people. Over time, elected officials have begun to ignore the U.S. Constitution and legislate in the interest of their political party and personal agendas. As a result the United States of America is becoming a country of special interest appointed politicians, not of laws and that leads to tyranny and corruption.

In order to sustain our country’s legacy of freedom and liberty, all legislation must be in concert with the U.S. Constitution, without the need for interpretation. The Founders established three branches of government (Judicial, Legislative, and Executive) to provide a check and balance. A two party system also aids in preserving a balance of power in government. Furthermore, Article V of the U.S. Constitution provides the means by which to alter the document legally with amendments (modification, addition, or deletion) when warranted. It requires that all state legislatures, who are closer to the pulse of their people, vote for or against the amendment. By design, the process is deliberately difficult and lengthy. The purpose is to prevent frivolous adjustments at the whim of the frequent display of disingenuous elected officials and thereby protect the integrity of the U. S. Constitution. This only works if all elected officials are trustworthily and serve with honor in accordance with the U.S. Constitution – no deep pockets from unions, any legislative high-jacking by special interests, no activist judges, and no career politicians.

If the three branches of government continue down the path of corruption and the watered down interpretation of the U.S. Constitution, then who is the document’s protector? Who is responsible to honor and defend the integrity of its content? Some say it’s the Tea Party movement represented by The People and, yes, they are gaining ground from the slippery slope. But, to serve and defend the United States of America unconditionally and with honor, I think of the United States Uniformed Armed Services. Coming from a military family, I have great pride and respect for the men and women who have served and are serving our country with honor.

Every person who enlists or re-enlists in the military takes a sworn oath to uphold and defend the U.S. Constitution and its legacy. The first section of the oath is “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;” The phrase ‘defend the Constitution’ is placed first in the oath…why? Our Founders and military leaders knew our Republic could perish from within our borders by those who dismiss the Constitution just as certain as those who seek to harm us from outside our borders.

Reading the oath in its entirety, begs the question “How does the military reconcile their sworn oath of protecting the U.S. Constitution when elected officials legislate and govern outside of the limits of its laws?”

Nickie Summers is the creator of Stand Up Be Read™, author of the Children’s Book The 4th of July A Celebration of Independence, and regular contributor on Conservative Network Broadcasting. http://www.standupberead.com/

http://www.amazon.com/4h-July-Celebration-Independence-Founding/dp/1452066353/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1288323300&sr=1-1

http://search.barnesandnoble.com/The-4th-of-July-A-Celebration-of-Independence/Nickie-Summers/e/9781452066356/?itm=3&USRI=nickie+summers

And So What's Next?

2011-02-11T11:13:00.000-08:00

After 18 days of protest, Egypt's president resigned today...okay...now what? As I wait for President Obama to remark on the events of today, I wonder what word spin will be preached to the American people?

Nation Building? Not in America's Schools!! (1/27/11)

2011-02-11T11:01:00.000-08:00

By: Nickie Summers

In the State of the Union address on 1/25/2011, President Obama said that South Korea’s teachers are revered as Nation Builders and he implied that America’s teachers should be revered as such. I cringed when I heard the words ‘Nation Building’ and let me tell you why…..

First, the terminology of Nation Building is complex and is sometimes confused with state-building. President Obama used the term Nation Building and therefore, that will be my focus. Nation Building refers to the process of creating, building, or structuring a national identity using the power of the government. The goal is to fuse people within the nation so that it becomes and remains politically stable and sustainable. To succeed in Nation Building the government uses the art of propaganda or infrastructure expansion to advance social calm with the desire of achieving economic growth.

History has shown massive devastation to countries, cultures, and people when a government or dictator transforms a country under the stroke of Nation Building. In fact, during the development or transformation of Nation Building, division among people is encouraged to create unrest and sometimes war - all for the opportunity to gain control and expand government power.

So, the question is - Why did President Obama, in his address, use the example ‘Nation Builders’ as the expressive to elevate America’s teachers? Since the early 1900’s, unions and government have had their digs in the public school system. We also know that since then the art of educating has become watered down teaching to the collective instead of the individual. Drop out rates have risen, test scores have tanked, and high quality tenured teachers are rare. All the while, school budgets increase and property taxes soar.

I believe President Obama’s words were calculated and purposeful to support the transformation he seeks in the United States of America. Nation Building through children is the surest way towards transformation and teachers are the conduit; it’s up to parents and grandparents to stop it. The government has been on the path of Nation Building through our children for decades - removing our country’s founding from text books and replacing it with social propaganda. The AFT, American Federation of Teachers union, is in the thick of it promoting green jobs, Obama care, and other social collective programs - they know where their bread is buttered. But, there is hope and an alternative and her name is Michelle Rhee.

Michelle Rhee is the former Chancellor of D.C. Public Schools. In 2010 she founded www.StudentsFirst.org in response to an increased demand for a better education system in America. Their mission is to build a national movement to defend the interests of children in public education and pursue transformative reform, so that America has the best education system in the world. Their focus is not to serve the will of unions and the government, but work with the private sector as a grassroots effort to put the focus on students and foster great teachers who teach basic/advance skills to inspire creative thinking students. You won’t find any mention of Nation Building at Students First!

Just as disturbing to hear President Obama refer to teachers as Nation Builders, it was just as disturbing to see on facebook young teachers relish the thought that they too could be revered as Nation Builders. I believe their excitement comes from a desire for teachers to be more valued in our society in general and for that I agree, they should. But please don’t jump on the Nation Building band wagon without understanding the context of the term, it’s misguided. Nation Building in the context of President Obama’s agenda is NOT a good thing ……

Transforming our great country through Nation Builders is a scary proposition and contrary to the foundation of the United States of America - free markets, free thinking, individualism. A free thinking society comes with risk, volatility and uncertainty. It also produces great wisdom, ingenuity, and wealth - it’s up to the individual. In my book, The 4th of July A Celebration of Independence, I state “the spirit of American exceptionalism comes from individual liberties that make it possible for every American to pursue happiness to the extent that they want to; not limited to what the government orders them to.” Nation Building and collective teaching has no place in America’s schools.

Nickie Summers is the creator of Stand Up Be Read™, author of the Children’s Book The 4th of July A Celebration of Independence, and regular contributor on Conservative Network Broadcasting.

http://www.amazon.com/4h-July-Celebration-Independence-Founding/dp/1452066353/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1288323300&sr=1-1

http://search.barnesandnoble.com/The-4th-of-July-A-Celebration-of-Independence/Nickie-Summers/e/9781452066356/?itm=3&USRI=nickie+summers

Stand Up and Stop the Ridiculous Rhetoric! (comentary written for CNB 1/10/11)

2011-02-11T10:44:00.000-08:00

By: Nickie Summers

The tragedy that took place in Tucson last Saturday is being used by liberal legislators and the media to further their cause to impose regulations on firearms and free speech – execute the gag order on the conservative voice. Within hours of the unspeakable horror, blame was immediately placed conservative Americans who advocate freedom and the preservation of constitutional rights. Their argument is that the conservative voice is responsible for the tragedy in Tucson verses the perpetrator of the crime, Jared Loughner. It’s like another volatile headliner, immigration. When an American citizen dies at the hand of an illegal alien, all hands are on deck to protect the illegal alien instead of the rights of the American citizen: those who voice against the illegal alien is labeled racists. Manipulate the headline to draw attention away from reality and towards a false purpose.

The cultural blame game is a blatant strategy used by politicians to twist the facts in an effort to impose an ideologue, silence opposition, or prey on the vulnerable to advance legislation. The end result of the blame game is to counteract the Constitution, encroach on peoples’ rights, and expand government control. So, when a tragedy, such as what happened in Tucson occurs, the left pounces as to ‘not let a crisis go to waste’ – strike while the emotional iron is hot and evoke legislation that otherwise would not be supported by the American people.

Since Saturday, the political rhetoric persists without regard to reason, calm, and civility. Its tenor has become more ridiculous and unreasonable; who is going to stand up and say enough already! Barack Obama is the President of the United States of America and during times of national tragedies Americans turn to him to provide leadership to calm the country’s nerves and call out political leaders to stop the inflammatory rhetoric. However, with the repeated gaffes from Obama and his administration playing the blame game themselves, I don’t hold out great hopes. What happened in Tucson was at the hands of a disturbed individual, period. Not due to legislation that didn’t get past or by conservative voices that use metaphor to make a point – and the left knows it. For liberals this about gaining more social control to benefit the government; for conservatives this is about protecting constitutional rights of individuals.

I’ll close with two thoughts to ponder while political legislators and pundits pontificate their cause during the aftermath of last weekend’s tragedy:

First, a quote by Ronald Reagan, 40th President of the United States of America – “We must reject the idea that every time a law’s broken, society is guilty rather than the lawbreaker. It is time to restore the American precept that each individual is accountable for his actions.”

Second, the following is an excerpt from an NBC interview of John Green, father of Christina-Taylor Green the beautiful 9 year old girl who was killed in Tucson on Saturday. Take note of the last sentence in which among Mr. Green’s unbelievable grief he supports the foundation on which this country was built. – “Well, there’s always been something special about Christina and, you know, the way she came into the world, on 9/11 and the way she left the world yesterday is obviously one that everybody else will remember. We’re going to remember her for the nine years that we had her. And she was a beautiful, vibrant, young girl. It shouldn’t happen in this country or anywhere else. But, you know, it’s a free society. We’re going to be subject to people like this. So I prefer this to the alternative.”

Whether liberal or conservative, the United States of America operates under the lawful document the U.S. Constitution – united we stand, united in strength, united we are!

Nickie Summers is the creator of Stand Up Be Read™, author of the Children’s Book "The 4th of July A Celebration of Independence", and regular contributor on Conservative Network Broadcasting.

http://www.amazon.com/4h-July-Celebration-Independence-Founding/dp/1452066353/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1288323300&sr=1-1

http://search.barnesandnoble.com/The-4th-of-July-A-Celebration-of-Independence/Nickie-Summers/e/9781452066356/?itm=3&USRI=nickie+summers

Fooled me once, twice, no more! (commentary written for CNB 12/24/2010)

2011-01-04T19:12:00.000-08:00

by Nickie Summers

American citizens across this great country are having postmortems over legislation enacted by political officials during the lame duck session of 111th Congress. What happened to the ‘resounding message sent to the White House’ after the midterm elections? What about the ‘shellacking?’ Yes, politics as usual continues. The phrase that comes to my mind “Fool me once, shame on you; fool me twice shame on me.” How many times will The People be fooled by political officials who campaign on The Will of the People, but govern to the will of big money and special interest?

Let me introduce you to the Professional Political Core. They are elitists who made politics a professional career and whose careers are funded by special interest money. They are people who entered politics for honorable reasons, or so I want to believe, but over time became addicted to the smell of money and power. They take personal pleasure living large at the expense of taxpayers while dismissing the U.S. Constitution. They view their political career as a means of personal profit verses serving the people. The Professional Political Core is a dangerous species firmly entrenched in U.S. government – a ‘closed’ faction with a hard shell; difficult to penetrate with new ideas and fresh faces.

But enough is enough. Benjamin Franklin once said, “Who had deceived thee so often as thyself?” Americans have trusted politicians for too long. We must accept that we’ve been fooled again, but for the last time. We are in an era of change and it’s The People’s change: eradicate the Professional Political Core that exists today and establish a framework that prevents it from settling comfortably back into our government’s structure.

Since the Tea Party movement, Americans are more engaged in the political process and educated on the U.S. Constitution. They’ve erected a spotlight putting in plain view for all Americans to see the back door dealings and corrupt behaviors in the legislative process. All of this culminating with record numbers of citizens involved in rallies, phone calls, and emails to legislators and the media. But this is not enough to effectively change the political culture in Washington. What more can we do?

A proactive approach is needed to turn the tables back to the days of our Founding Fathers. When and how people served honorably for the purpose of the country, before the culture of the Professional Political Core took over. Three basic ideas can set the framework to restore, enforce, and protect the purity of the elected office:

Set term limits for federal lawmakers. Currently there are no set term limits. This opens the special interest financial doors to career seeking politicians and under minds the electoral and legislative process. During the midterms of 2010 we saw this in California, Nevada, and New York among others. Sen. Jim DeMint (R-South Carolina) and several colleagues are proposing a Joint Resolution that would limit service in the Senate to 12 years and service in the House to 6 years. To get details on the resolution go to http://demint.senate.gov/public/_files/TermLimitsForAll.pdf
Set reasonable salaries for federal lawmakers. For those who have idle time on their hands, do a little research on the history of congressional salaries…automatic pay raises, no accountability, WOW!! Benjamin Franklin, among other Founders, felt passionately about retaining modest salaries in government and felt that earning any wage at all as a politician could lead to conflicts of interests and corruption. Today the congressional base salary is $174,000. A push is underway to freeze congressional salaries for 2011. I believe that doesn’t go far enough. An analysis of all salaries and associated performance should be reviewed. Also, a resolution to the 27th Amendment with unambiguous language is needed to manage congressional salaries and accountability to The People – like the other amendments do! To get details and history on the 27th Amendment, go to http://www.archives.gov/exhibits/charters/constitution_amendments_11- 27.html
Apply equal force of the law to federal lawmakers as it is applied to their constituents. Legislatures exempt themselves from the law and then pontificate their justification! Rep. Charles Rangel (D-New York) is the latest politician who violated the law, but received a congressional slap on the hand – a censure. I could walk into any grocery store and find at least one person who is currently being audited and looking down the barrel of a major tax penalty bill and mounting legal fees…no slap on the hand and go ‘on your merry way’ for them! Benjamin Franklin said it best “There is no kind of dishonesty into which otherwise good people more easily and frequently fall than that of defrauding the government.” We see this over and over again with Democrats, Republicans, public officials, and constituents. No one is exempt from having the freedom of choice to do right or wrong; therefore no one should be exempt from equal application of law. Today, virtue is in the hands of The People and, through their local representatives, they must restore it in Washington. Which brings up the 17th Amendment, but I’ll table that for another day…..

History is wise and teaches us so much if we would just listen. A final quote from Benjamin Franklin – author W. Cleon Skousen set up the quote well in his book The Five Thousand Year Leap:

Franklin fervently hoped this policy [that man would seek public office for honor verse profit] could be perpetuated in America from generation to generation. At the Constitutional Convention in 1787, he [Franklin] gave a discourse on the need to fix the course of American public service so that it would always attract men of public virtue and repel scoundrels scrambling for a soft job. He [Franklin] said:
“Sir, there are two passions which have a powerful influence in the affairs of men. These are ambitions and avarice; the love of power and the love of money. Separately, each of these has great force in prompting men to action; but when united in view of the same object, they have in many minds the most violent effects. Place before the eyes of such men a post of honor, that shall at the same time be a place of profit, and they will move heaven and earth to obtain it. The vast number of such places it is that renders the British government so tempestuous. The struggles for them are the true source of all those actions which are perpetually dividing the nation, distracting its councils, hurrying it sometimes into fruitless and mischievous wars, and often compelling a submission to dishonorable terms of peace. (Smyth, Writings of Benjamin Franklin)

The 112th Congress brings a sense of hope to American citizens – hope to restore the U.S. Constitution, protection of rights, limited government, and fiscal responsibility. But, the responsibility lies in the hands of The People to be proactive with their state and local representatives creating enforceable legislation that will set new rules and real accountability with federal lawmakers.

Nickie Summers is the creator of Stand Up Be Read™, author of the Children’s Book The 4th of July A Celebration of Independence, and regular contributor on Conservative Network Broadcasting.

http://www.amazon.com/4h-July-Celebration-Independence-Founding/dp/1452066353/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1288323300&sr=1-1

http://search.barnesandnoble.com/The-4th-of-July-A-Celebration-of-Independence/Nickie-Summers/e/9781452066356/?itm=3&USRI=nickie+summers

America is a Republic NOT a Democracy! (commentary written for CNB 12/6/2010)

2011-01-04T19:00:00.000-08:00

by Nickie Summers

A Rasmussen survey recently reported that out of 1000 likely voters polled nationally, forty-five percent (45%) believe that the Federal Government is working outside the limits of the Constitution. Yet thirty-nine percent (39%) believe they are working inside the limits and seventeen percent (17%) don’t know. These numbers show there is still much work ahead to educate Americans on the Founding Fathers’ ideas behind the Constitution and the boundaries of government. From FDR’s “New Deal” to Bailouts and Obamacare, Americans have been in a slow cooker of progressive socialism, suffocating under the nationalization of charity in the quest to advance Democracy. America is NOT a Democracy!!

In the early 1900’s politicians and special interest groups began integrating the word Democracy into the consciousness of America. They linked the word to so called “charitable” programs designed to serve the betterment of Americans and “Our Democracy.” As a result, the phrase “Our Democracy” replaced “Our Republic” in everyday dialogue. Overtime, the so called charitable programs, all for the sake of Democracy, did nothing more than create a welfare state and put America on the path towards socialism and fiscal destruction. We Learn The Constitution points out that Samuel Adams, Founding Father and among those who signed the Declaration of Independence, said the ideas of a welfare state were made unconstitutional by the Founders – “The utopian schemes of leveling (redistribution of the wealth) and a community of goods (central ownership of all the means of production and distribution) are as visionary and impracticable as those which vest all property in the Crown. (These ideas) are arbitrary, despotic, and, in our government (a Republic), unconstitutional.”* Unfortunately, politics of the early 1900’s saw things differently and began to overhaul and redefine freedom, liberty, and charity under the label of Democracy.

Today it’s common place to hear public officials and/or icons from Obama to Bush and yes, even Palin, refer to America as a Democracy. Every time I hear it, it’s like nails on a chalk board!

Democracy is a form of government in which supreme power lies in an organized body of people where decisions are based on “majority rule” and are binding to the rest of the people. Unlike a Democracy, America is a constitutional Republic, in which supreme power lies in a body of citizens who elect people to represent them. A Democracy, when unchecked, can quickly turn corrupt because its structure has no balance of power, making it possible for tyranny rule under a single political power or organized group; the majority oppresses the minority. A Republic, as designed by the Founders and protected by the Constitution, is the most balanced form of government because it delineates a separation of power (Judicial, Legislative, and Executive branch) and, by the voting power of an engaged electorate, public officials can be replaced – this constitutional framework best avoids an accumulation of power, promotes independence at its core, and best protects individual freedom and liberty.

Around the world we see Democracies in trouble; countries going bankrupt from the financial drain due to excessive welfare programs and corruption. America may be on the same path of destruction. In part due to the systematic plan to govern America from the perspective of a social Democracy instead of a constitutional Republic. First, politicians, schools, and the media perpetuate a culture of corruption and ignorance towards the Constitution. As a result, the line has become blurred between a Republic and a Democracy. Second, powerful unions and special interest organizations created a professional political core from which the “political chosen” are thrust into the spot light regardless of experience and high merit, but solely for the self-serving purpose to accelerate transforming America into a Democracy…on the verge of tyranny. In the day of the Founding Fathers, The People nominated and chose their public officials based on proven experience, constitutional wisdom, and personal virtue. The Tea Party movement brought these principles back into the theater of the electorate and created a shockwave of ‘uh-oh’ among the high power political core. As a consequence, put power back in the hands of The People to restore Our Republic.

Our country is far removed from the Constitutional model set forth by our Founding Fathers and Americans must remain vigilant to 2012 and beyond. Continue to educate the difference between a Republic and a Democracy. Teach the Constitution so the next time likely voters are asked, “Is the Federal Government operating inside the limits of the Constitution?” their answers coincide to an electorate that embodies a Republic instead of a Democracy.

I’ll close with three quotes from James Madison, Founding Father and 4th President of The United States of America:

“Democracies have ever been spectacles of turbulence and contention; have ever been found incompatible with personal security, or the rights of property; have in general been as short in their lives as they are violent in their death.” - Federalist Papers, No. 10, November 22, 1787

“We may define a republic to be… a government which derives all its powers directly or indirectly from the great body of the people, and is administered by persons holding their offices during [the people’s] pleasure, for a limited period, or during good behavior.” – Federalist Papers, No. 39, January, 1788

“It is proper to take alarm at the first experiment on our liberties. We hold this prudent jealousy to be the first duty of citizens, and one of the noblest characteristics of the late Revolution. The freeman of America did not wait till usurped power had strengthened itself by exercise, and entangled the question in precedents. They saw all the consequences in the principle, and they avoided the consequences by denying the principle.” – James Madison “A Memorial and Remonstrance”, 1785

Nickie Summers is the creator of Stand Up Be Read™, author of the Children’s Book The 4th of July A Celebration of Independence, and regular contributor on Conservative Network Broadcasting.

Let Freedom Reign (commentary written for CNB 11/22/2010)

2011-01-04T18:51:00.000-08:00

by Nickie Summers

The midterm elections of 2010 are over and We The People sent an overwhelming message to change the course of policy in government. The elections proved to be the highest conservative gain in the House in over 60 years. With that comes a more balanced, constitutional approach towards governing and protecting freedom…or does it?

This week I began research for my next book. While reading quotes from the Founding Fathers it became clear to me that balance is best achieved from two fronts. First, fix Washington D.C. and state governments and second, engage our children in the quest to protect freedom: individual prosperity verses government handouts, self-reliance verses government dependency.

The Founding Fathers often refer to the importance of educating children on the principles of freedom, why our country fought to be free, and the safeguards to remain free. I believe in order to perpetuate the ideas, concepts, and love for freedom as expressed by the Founders, parents and grandparents must educate young children on the founding principles passionately and frequently. If not, the cycle of education will be broken and as a result the ties to our country’s past will be forgotten, rewritten, and freedom will no longer reign.

This brings me to a piece I wrote earlier this year before the historic midterm elections. I share it as part of today’s commentary because it reflects thoughts as an American and a mother facing and preparing for an uncertain future and finding strength through the prism of hope and the resolve of the Constitution:

Saturday, February 20, 2010 – Nickie Summers
Today I spent the morning watching my son practice his golf game, chipping, putting, and driving. The sun was shining and the temperature was 55 degrees…just a beautiful day. While he was playing, he moved out of my view so I decided to pull from my purse my pocket Constitution and I began to read it, again for the umpteenth time. And again, I was awed at the brilliance of our Founding Fathers and, again, dismayed at the profound neglect, absence, manipulation of their words in politics today.

I pondered at how the erosion of the founding principles didn’t happen over night; it’s been a slow, methodical evolution. I began to wonder ‘who is the person today bold enough to be our modern day refounder? Who has the capacity and backbone to lead citizens of the United States of America back to her founding principles, back to the freedoms and liberties declared at her birth? Will it be a mom who looks at her children and decides she is going to jump into the political fight on behalf of her children’s freedom and future? Will it be a dad who lost his job and decided to promote his ideals and lay a new path to fight for the survival of free markets and capitalism? Is it a collection of individuals creating a movement whose force has flustered the mindset of traditional political groups?’

My thoughts drifted back to the present when my son came back into view. From the distance he looked at me with a smile on his face and I smiled back. At that moment I thought deeply on what the future will bring to this beautiful 12 year old boy. What if he chooses to have a family and children? What will their future bring? Will they live in a free country of liberties and rights endowed by God, declared in the Declaration of Independence and protected by the Constitution? Will I be telling stories to my grandchildren about when the United States of America use to be a free country?

Sad to loose freedom having experienced it; sad to never have had it at all! And so that’s it…that’s the key!! We MUST protect what we have. Protect our freedom and demand we return to the principles under which this great nation was founded…it is time for a new birth. Abraham Lincoln led this nation through a new birth in 1863, it can be done again! We The People are in control, We The People are empowered…we can do this; the Constitution is our ammunition…it was written for us to protect us…Read it, know it…be educated…be empowered…be hopeful…

Nickie Summers is the creator of Stand Up Be Read™, author of the Children’s Book The 4th of July A Celebration of Independence, and regular contributor on Conservative Network Broadcasting.

Safeguard America From Tyrants, Teach Our Children Early (commentary written for CNB 11/15/2010)

2011-01-04T18:43:00.000-08:00

By: Nickie Summers

John Adams, Founding Father and 2nd President of the United States, in defense of the Constitution said “Children should be educated and instructed in the principles of freedom.” Other Founding Fathers echoed the same sentiment in order to keep the fire stoked on the flame of the US Constitution and what it represents: a form of government called a Republic that protects liberties and lawfully establishes that government works for and is responsible to the will of America’s people.

It is often said that learning is best absorbed in early childhood. So, the question is ‘how early do we teach children the principles of freedom?’ Having school age children myself, I have come to the conclusion that teaching children the principles of freedom is best introduced before they start formal school; before they become indoctrinated by the liberal assault on history’s truths. Preschoolers are taught lessons from the Bible, the Torah; we teach children second languages and other complex subjects. Why not teach them the principles of freedom that early as well? They are America’s future and should be prepared to lead this county in the lawful constitutional path laid by our Founding Fathers.

Recently I wrote a children storybook on freedom and liberty; straight forward writing and colorful illustrations on the events that led to the legacy of the Founding Fathers. The main characters are America’s colonists, King George III, and the Founding Fathers. They are important to the story because their relationship developed into an opposition of ideas that created distrust. This evolved into a revolt by the colonists that started the Revolutionary War. Led by the Founding Fathers, the colonist were victorious and the result was the birth of the United States of America; a free and independent country governed for and by the will of the people.

The book’s purpose is to help parents and grandparents introduce and educate preschoolers and young children on America’s greatness and exceptionalism before starting formal school.

The inertia of current events and tyrannical elitists are trying to extinguish the flame of freedom and liberty from our children. In an effort to push back people are advancing their knowledge on United States history. Shouldn’t preschoolers and elementary age children be educated as well? It’s time Americans fulfill their legacy for future generations as did our Founding Fathers for us more than 200 years ago. If not, I believe our generation could be the last to experience individual liberties that made it possible for us to pursue happiness to the extent of our own will verses being limited to what the government orders us to.

Read history to your children and grandchildren; read it often and stoke the flame of liberty for future generations.

Nickie Summers is the creator of Stand Up Be Read™, author of the Children’s Book The 4th of July A Celebration of Independence, and regular contributor on Conservative Network Broadcasting.

***To purchase this book for your children, please visit one of the following links…

http://www.amazon.com/4th-July-Celebration-Independence-Founding/dp/1452066353/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1288323300&sr=1-1
http://search.barnesandnoble.com/The-4th-of-July-A-Celebration-of-Independence/Nickie-Summers/e/9781452066356/?itm=3&USRI=nickie+summers

Americans Take Back America (commentary written for CNB 10/29/2010)

2011-01-04T18:19:00.000-08:00

by Nickie Summers

The debate continues on whether national, state, and local politicians advocate a progressive agenda. However, one thing is true, for most American’s the term progressive in the political sense is a relatively new term. The presidential campaign of 2008 put a face on the progressive movement on both sides of the political isle. It became clear that overtime America was taken hostage by corrupt radicals seeking control and power. When did this happen, how did this happen? The answer is complicated, yet basic. The American people took their eye off the political ball and trusting Americans were lead astray by politicians.

Over the last two years, Americans reclaimed their leading roll in the political process; reconnecting and educating themselves on the founding of this great country and the Constitution. In recent months, we’ve seen again and again how everyday Americans know more about the political process than career politicians. Say what you will about the troubles we face in America today, one thing is certain, people from coast to coast are engaged involved and taking back the political reins. America is going through a ‘rebirth’ to quote President Lincoln in 1863 when the United States and the Constitution were tested, but prevailed. America is loved by her citizens and she will be restored and protected; for that there is excitement in the air that is undeniable.

As a child, my parents helped guide me out of problems. They also knew I had to experience failure in order to succeed in the future. History has an uncanny way of guiding and educating nations; showing politicians the path to failure and the path to success. Politicians choose to ignore the truth of history and repeat failing practices over and over. Some people call it ignorance to apply the same failed policies and expect different results. I tend to believe its purposeful; create a crisis to transform. Both beliefs are dangerous and lead to an abyss of destruction.

The midterm elections on November 2, 2010, will prove to be the first step towards stopping the pattern of destruction; apply a tourniquet to massive spending and self-serving decisions made by corrupt career politicians. Put the country back into the hands of the people to restore her for our children and grandchildren.

These are historic times in America. People are exercising their right as United States citizens; expressing themselves peacefully and boldly to set forth our country’s future on the path laid by our Founding Fathers. In the months ahead, I look forward to new political faces, fresh ideas, and a resurgence of conservative values in the framework of policy. More importantly, I look forward to politicians working hard to regain my trust by their lawful governing to the will of the people according to the United States Constitution.

Nickie Summers is the creator of Stand Up Be Read™, author of the Children’s Book The 4th of July A Celebration of Independence, and regular contributor on Conservative Network Broadcasting.

Conservative Network Broadcast - CNB

2010-11-02T17:01:00.000-07:00

This week will prove to be significant for many reasons. First the mid term elections of 2010 will, at minimum, send a clear message to national and state politicians that politics as usual will not be tolerated. More thoughts on this evening's elections tomorrow.

Second, this week was the launch of the Conservative Network Broadcast. The network will offer fresh new conservative views, opinions, interviews, and insights on the Tea Party Movement using multi media. I was honored to write a commentary for their first broadcast which aired Monday, November 1, 2010. The title of the commentary is 'Americans Take Back America' and can be found under the Opinion tab. Please take time to check it out and put the schedule of updates and events on your calendar as to not miss a broadcast!!

www.conservativenetworkbroadcasting.com

The 4th of July A Celebration of Independence

2010-09-13T16:33:00.000-07:00

Our last posting was July29, 2010....its been wwwaaayyyy to long....but we've been busy!! New, designs, summers festivals, AND a new book!! Although the cover image and 'inside the book' isn't posted yet, the book is currently available at www.amazon.com and www.authorhouse.com. Soon, the book will be available online through Barnes and Noble.

This little book introduces preschoolers to the birth of the United States of America, the legacy of the Founding Fathers, and the significance of the Constitution. Take a journey through America’s history and discover why the July 4th holiday is much more than fireworks and summer fun!

Its a perfect book for parents and grandparents to read at bedtime or anytime to begin teaching their children the principles of liberty in the United States of America. John Adams said "Children should be educated and instructed in the principles of freedom." I don't think it is ever to early to begin teaching our children about American exceptionalism and the principles set forth by our Founding Fathers!

Keep an eye out for our press release and more information at www.standupberead.com and our facebook page.

Kentucky the 15th United State

2010-07-29T17:03:00.000-07:00

Kentucky State Flag

Kentucky was the 15th state to join the United States of America in 1792. Settlers and pioneers from the state of Virginia traveled west through the Cumberland Gap in the Appalachian Mountains; they traveled west to the Mississippi River. The settlers and pioneers saw the economic potential in the Mississippi river because it flowed north and south and would be ideal for river trades. So they began building new settlements. However, the government of Virginia, the original homeland of the pioneers, wasn’t interested in river trade so the newly discovered territory west of the Appalachian Mountains became Kentucky with its own government. The Riverboat trade market was very successful and passengers enjoyed the social life on the river with riverboat racing, games and parties.

Jim Bowie

Bowie Knife

Jm Bowie born in Kentucky April 10, 1796, was an American culture folk hero famous for his huge knife and many brawls. His short life spanned from Kentucky to Louisiana and he died at the Alamo after joining the fight for the Republic of Texas in 1836.

President
Abraham Lincoln

However, Kentucky’s most famous son is the United States of America’s 16th President, Abraham Lincoln. President Lincoln was born February 12, 1809 in Hardin County, Kentucky. As a young man he was given the nickname ‘honest Abe’ because of his honesty working at the country store with merchants and customers. As President, he led the country through its greatest domestic crisis, the American Civil War. By the end of the war, the Union was preserved and slavery ended. He died from an assassin’s bullet April 15, 1865 in Washington DC at the age of 56.

Cardinal

Goldenrod

The name Kentucky is said to be an Indian name meaning "land of tomorrow". Kentucky is known for its rich fields of grass due to its fertile soil and is known as the Blue Grass State. Kentucky state motto: "United we stand, divided we fall". Its state flower is the Goldenrod and the state bird is the Cardinal.

Poll: Why are Democrats Loosing their Cool?

2010-07-12T12:55:00.000-07:00

Since last summer we've seen Democrats loose their cool at town hall meetings or interviews with students and/or media. Why do you think this is occuring? Take our poll located in the right column of the blog page. If you have other thoughts or reasons why, please put it in the comments below.

Click here to see yet another Democrat looses his cool!!

The results of our unscientific poll:

Why do you think Demacrats are loosing their cool?

Obama administration's transformation is making their jobs irrelavant. 25%
Americans are focused on Nov2010 mid term elections to vote them out. 75%

Hopeful for Change in Nov2010

2010-07-10T17:26:00.000-07:00

We had another great day in Jefferson Georgia promoting and sellling product that enlightens and brings history forward. It was espeically wonderful talking to people who are engaged in the 'happenings' of politics today and who are ready for the upcoming elections. Most encouraged talking to a 23 year old who 'gets it!!'...love the spirit of this country's youth! Top seller today was the Gettysburg Address; reason - today's relevance, a divided nation who refers back to the birth of our nation and founding principles to restore itself.

Vermont the 14th State

2010-06-15T10:46:00.000-07:00

We've all heard lately the importance of learning history so that we know who we are as a people and a country. I've said before how enlighting it is to talk to my parents about our country's history and how political decisions impact the course of history; its always interesting and sometimes scary.

Well, mom has been busy lately reading LOTS about our country's history. She began a state by state journey educating herself on the why's and how's each state bacame a united state. Its been fascinating to take this journey with her...sure tells alot about the social and political composition of each state even today.

I decided to share quick simple facts on the blog. Who knows maybe you'll be inspired to delve deeper into the history of your state! Enjoy.....

Vermont - 14th State of the United States of America

French explorers Jacques Cartier (1535) and Samuel de Champlain (1609) were the first Europeans to explore and establish French trading posts in the Vermont territory. The Vermont territory was hunting grounds to many small Indian tribes. These tribes battled amongst themselves and the new settlers who established forts and trading posts.

Vermont was beautiful, yet unsettled territory and there were many clashes between the Indians, French and British. In some cases the Indians fought along side the French against the British. The Treaty of Paris in 1763, also called Peace of Paris, surrendered the Vermont territory to the British. Dispite the treaty, clashes still broke out and in 1770 Ethan Allen (Founding Father, farmer, businessman, land speculator, philosopher, writer) organized the Green Mountain Boys. They rallied the unhappy settlers in the effort to stand up to the provincial government from Britian. Green Mountain Boys Flag above.

The Treaty of Paris in 1783, ended the Revolutionary War at which time Britian gave up control of the Vermont territoy. It then became known as the Independent Republic of Vermont. Then in 1791 Vermont became the 14th state of the United States of America.

Vermont is known as the Green Mountain State (the name Vermont means green mountain.) Its motto: freedom and unity. Vermont is the leading producer of maple syrup in the United States. Its state flower is the Red Clover and the state bird is the Hermit Thrush. Vermont flag to the right.

New Summer 2010 Tees

2010-06-14T16:26:00.000-07:00

Our new summer tees are now available for purchase on line. We've taken the tradition of the July 4th tee and added a twist to make it more thought provoking for those who wear it and those who read it. We also added a childrens collection for toddlers and babys....they are for the love of the Declaration of Independence in the spirit of the July 4th holiday and everyday!! Take a look at the guys and gals Protect the US Constitution 2010 tee.

Don't just wear a message tee...make a statement that cause people to think!! Order a tee for each family member and show that you support conservative views that are in step with the Constitution and principles laid by its Founding Fathers. Check 'em out at

http://www.standupberead.com/.

When the Music Stopped...

2010-06-06T15:06:00.000-07:00

This was written by written by Chaplain Jim Higgins; read, honor, and remember...

When the Music Stopped...

For those who are unaware: At all military base theaters, the National Anthem is played before the movie begins. This is written from a Chaplain in Iraq :

I recently attended a showing of 'Superman 3' here at LSA Anaconda. We have a large auditorium we use for movies, as well as memorial services and other large gatherings. As the custom at all military bases, we stood to attention when the National Anthem began before the main feature. All is going well until three-quarters of the way through The National Anthem, the music stopped.

Now, what would happen if this occurred with 1,000 18-22 year-olds back in the States? I imagine there would be hoots, catcalls, laughter, a few rude comments, and everyone would sit down and yell for the movie to begin. Of course, that is, if they had stood for the National Anthem in the first place.

Here in Iraq ,1,000 Soldiers continued to stand at attention, eyes fixed forward. The music started again and the Soldiers continued to quietly stand at attention. But again, at the same point, the music stopped. What would you expect 1000 Soldiers standing at attention to do?? Frankly, I expected
some laughter, and everyone would eventually sit down and wait for the movie to start. But No!!... You could have heard a pin drop, while every soldier continued to stand at attention.

Suddenly,there was a lone voice from the front of the auditorium, then a dozen voices, and soon the room was filled with the voices of a thousand soldiers, finishing where the recording left off: "And the rockets' red glare, the bombs bursting in air, gave proof through the night that our flag was still there. Oh, say does that Star Spangled Banner yet wave, o'er the land of the free, and the home of the brave."

It was the most inspiring moment I have had in Iraq and I wanted you to know what kind of Soldiers are serving you. Remember them as they fight for us!

Pass this along as a reminder to others to be ever in prayer for all our soldiers serving us here at home and abroad. Many have already paid the ultimate price.

Written by Chaplain Jim Higgins.
LSA Anaconda is at the Ballad Airport in Iraq, north of Baghdad

Today in History: May 25th - Ralph Waldo Emerson

2010-05-25T05:50:00.000-07:00

'There is a time in every man's education when he arrives at the conviction that envy is ignorance; that imitation is suicide; that he must take himself for better, for worse, as his portion;…The power which resides in him is new in nature, and none but he knows what that is which he can do, nor does he know until he has tried.' Ralph Waldo Emerson, "Self Reliance," Essays, First Series, 1841.

Essayist, philosopher, and poet Ralph Waldo Emerson was born in Boston on May 25, 1803. Son and grandson of Protestant divines, Emerson attended Harvard College and Harvard Divinity School, entering the Unitarian ministry in 1829. Read more about Emerson at http://memory.loc.gov/ammem/today/today.html

History Teaches Everything!!

2010-05-24T14:51:00.000-07:00

We just finished reading Federalist Number 19 written by Alexander Hamilton and James Madison. Everyday my thoughts on the direction of this country are validated. Its eerie how the founders knew the troubles that lay ahead if citizens become complacent on their role to govern. If you read the documents you learn about history and the cautionary words the founders wrote to educate people on how to safeguard the Constitution and the Republic. Become part of the national conversation on the Founding Fathers and the founding principles... http://www.constitutingamerica.org/ .

Generations bring History Forward

2010-05-11T19:31:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I've been working on a project for the last few months and its required much research...research on world history. During which I often turned to my parents to discuss the days findings and it became apparent to me that their insight is priceless. I could sit and listen to their perspective on world events and history all day!!! So very interesting!!!

Educating America's Children

2010-04-22T15:52:00.000-07:00

I came across this website after seeing co-founder of Consituting America, Janine Turner and her daughter, on Fox & Friends this week. Please take time to check it out. Its inspiring, hopeful and educational...it is www.constitutingamerica.org . Now is the time to educate ourselves and our chldren on the framework of America's history. The Founding Fathers were wise men; there is a reason our great country is called The United States of America. Constituting America offers simple fun ways to engage yourself, family, friends and your community to learn about the Constitution, Founding Fathers and founding principles. Stand up be read....educate yourself, educate others!!

Get Rally Ready!

2010-04-14T08:27:00.000-07:00

We've been overwhelmed with response to our apparel line and message tees. So excited that people are engaged and get it!! We have Large and XLarge sizes still available in Abraham Lincoln 1863 & 1864, Uncle Sam, and Thomas Jefferson Question with Boldness. All sizes are available in the Alexander Hamilton tee. Get Rally Ready and recieve a 10% coupon on all Stand Up. Be Read.TM apparel. Redeem your coupon using the code Rally at Check Out. Offer ends April 30, 2010..hurry and place your order today!! www.standupberead.com

Day 4: AAM - VOTE IN NOVEMBER

2010-04-12T15:28:00.000-07:00

Its the last day at the Atlanta Apparel Mart. We met so many interesting people...all of them business owners-wholesalers, designers, and buyers. The modo of day 4: VOTE IN NOVEMBER! Over the past four days we shared stories with business owners about anxiety over the economy but also hope for the future. In short, business owners want government out of their business, they want corporate taxes lowered, they want healthcare repealled, they want incentives to keep manufacturing jobs in the US, and they want politicians who are truthful. Many of us are small business owners who, based on principle, use US companies to manufacture goods to support the American workforce. On the flip side we are penalized and at times not competitive because the cost to produce goods is more expensive and sets up our cost of goods to be more than the competition who don't care about 'USA made' labels and prefer to make their products overseas to take advantage of the lower costs.
The bottom line is that there is a feeling that Washington DC talks a big story about looking after the small business owner, but they don't act on the talk...and this has been going on for years. Policies just add to the burden in a sluggish economy. 'Where is Reagan?'
That being said, we are all hopeful that through the election process politicians will be forced to get out of the way of small business and the free market will pull the economy out of the recession.
Oh and one last note...consumers, please support the American workforce and buy products made in the USA!! Go to this website for more information: www.americansworking.com

Day 3: Atlanta Apparel Mart

2010-04-11T09:23:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was day 3 at Atlanta Apparel Mart. We continue to get great feedback from buyers and guests alike - "Great tees, great message, perfect timing." Modo of the day: stay true to your passion and have faith in yourself.

Day 2: Atlanta Apparel

2010-04-11T07:59:00.000-07:00

Day 2: Atlanta Apparel Mart...another fab day of runway and showing Stand Up Be Read apparel. See the runway video of Question with Boldness - Thomas Jefferson and 1863 - Abraham Lincoln Gettysburg. Modo of the day: the word 'unconditional' is totally under rated! Over the past few days we've meet so many genuine and transparent people - designers, wholesalers, buyers...we are all is this together.

Atlanta Apparel Mart Daily Strut: Freedom Butterfly

2010-04-09T08:57:00.000-07:00

Yesterday on the runway was Freedom Butterfly. Today is Question with Boldness - Thomas Jefferson and 1863 - Abraham Lincoln.

Day 1 at Atlanta Apparel Mart

2010-04-08T14:01:00.000-07:00

Day 1 at the mart has been fabulous. Butterfly debuted on the Daily Strut Runway show. All Stand Up. Be Read.TM apparel made an impression and gained much interest. I have photos and a video to post, but we have techincal difficulties with the laptop so I'll load them later from the office desk top. Modo of the day - you never know where or when opportunities will arise...luck only benifits those who are prepared - I love to be lucky and I love to be prepared!! Can't wait for day 2!! On tap for tomorrow the debut of Question with Boldness - Thomas Jefferson and 1863 - Abraham Lincoln Gettysburg...both on the Runway!

Atlanta Apparel Mart: Nichola Originals

2010-04-07T18:46:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow starts Atlanta's Apparel Mart. Nichola Originals and the Stand Up. Be Read.TM apparel will be featured there. Our booth is like none other and we are very proud to be representing an awesome collection with a honorable message. We are all very excited and plan to blog during the event so keep checking the blog or website for updates. Thanks!!

Faces - Dinah

2010-04-04T10:47:00.000-07:00

Her name is Dinah…On the surface Dinah appears to be like most 28 year olds in America and last week I met her when she was introduced to me by a friend. Within minutes of that meeting I realized Dinah is not like every 28 year old in America; her story is inspiring, enlightening, and must be told. Her story isn’t unique because of her past; it is unique because of how her past brought history forward in her life and is the premise for how she lives her life today.

Dinah was in the public school system until the fourth grade. At which time her mother found herself needing to re-teach her children when they came home from school and therefore decided to take on the responsibility to home school Dinah and her sister. During the next 8-10 years, Dinah completed her studies and she says she remembers that in her home there was frequent “background noise” about personal values, taxes, and peoples’ rights.

When Dinah was 21, she moved to California. As she puts it she saw some pretty scary stuff. She recalls one instance when she went to a party in a not so safe part of town and found herself in a precarious situation that she didn’t think she would get out of safely. She said that all she could think about was if she called 911 it would take the police longer to get to her than it would take for danger to become her. That was a turning point for her. Dinah survived that night and within seven months she moved back to Georgia. It was also a time when she decided to educate herself on self defense, the NRA, and gun rights.

Dinah was now in her early twenties living in Georgia trying to make a life for herself; with no car, no home, no money, but as she puts it “she had her freedom.” Within two days of moving to Georgia, Dinah found a job working in the kitchen at an exclusive country club. She found herself an affordable apartment that unfortunately was not in close proximity to the country club. To make ends meet there was a period of time when she worked double shift at the country club and took on another job as a pastry chef for a caterer. As a young adult this scheduled completely squelched her opportunity for a social life coupled with transportation challenges not owning a car. However, she managed, at times, a 31 hour shift until she was able to financially structure her life into a normal work day schedule.

Working at the country club she met Roger, a co-worker. Over the years their friendship turned into something deeper and they eventually married. Six years later, Dinah is still employed at the club and has earned additional responsibilities there.

Today, Dinah owns a home and pays a mortgage; owns a used car without a note; pays cash for everything – she learned that lesson the hard way; is an NRA supporter and owns a gun to protect herself, and supports the Fairtax plan.

When Dinah shared her story with me, I couldn’t help but smile. She had so much wisdom packed in her 28 years. I thought ‘in this world of young people feeling as if they are entitled, how and why was she spared the curse?’ So I asked her, “Dinah, you know that you are a-typical. Why do you see the world differently than so many young adults your age?”

Her response was thoughtful, provocative, and without pause. The best way I can express it is to bullet each point she made, so here they are:

she was home schooled and learned self reliance; not indoctrination to the reliance of government and the cradle to grave mentality
she sacrifices her wants for her needs - until she can pay cash; she says having loans, notes, and credit cards makes her a slave to others and she prefers her freedom.
suffering is a necessary part of life; it taught her the responsibility, ownership, and consequence that come with freedom of choice

At the beginning of this story, I mentioned that a friend introduced me to Dinah. The reason for the introduction was not really about Dinah and ‘her story’, but that two weeks earlier, she had a tattoo sketched on her right arm - shoulder to wrist. The tattoo includes the faces of our country’s Founding Fathers. It also includes images of the bald eagle, the Constitution, the quill pen used by the Fathers to sign the Constitution, and each signature. Being involved with my company Nichola Originals and Stand Up. Be Read.TM, my friend knew I would want to see this tattoo. When I started interacting with Dinah to schedule our meeting, it became clear to me that her story and message is as powerful as the tattoo on her arm.

I spent a good 20 minutes studying the beautiful sketch and imagery of the tattoo and I asked her, “What possessed you to tattoo the Founding Fathers?” She said a well known artist was in town and extended an offer to sketch a tattoo for her. After much consideration, she took him up on his offer. She then went into research mode and took great care to choose images that best convey the respect she has for the service of the Founding Fathers. She said they exemplify freedom first and she feels in today’s political climate, they are disrespected. For three days she sat while the artist sketched the images; the thought frequently about how her generation probably doesn’t know who the Founding Fathers are and the sacrifices they made to lay the path for future generations. She said at one point she was in great pain and looked over at the photo of George Washington and thought of the pain he went through fighting for freedom.

My final question to her was, “When did you become interested in the Founding Fathers?” She responded that during the campaign of 2008, she heard someone ask then Senator Obama about his view on gun rights and his response was in favor of revoking gun ownership laws. That stopped Dinah in her tracks and she began to study the candidates and what they stand for…do their views align with the Constitution or against the Constitution. Then the bailouts of the banks brought her more concern, from both sides of the political isle. She knew right then she needed to educate herself on the Constitution, Declaration of Independence, and the Bill of Rights. It was then she became intrigued with the Founding Fathers and their principles.

Dinah hopes to inspire her generation to Stand Up. Be Read.TM on the principles of the Constitution and the Founding Fathers. She believes, as I do, that once you understand the premise of freedom in the United States of America, you will realize its fragility and fight to protect it.

Thank you, Dinah, for sharing your story and being a Face of Stand Up. Be Read.TM

Hurry...Last Day To Take The Founding Fathers Poll

2010-03-30T18:02:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is the last day to take the Founding Fathers poll. Who is your favorite? Let us know!!

2010-03-24T09:12:00.001-07:00

Amazing Talent: Rhodes Design Group

2010-03-22T14:59:00.000-07:00

Bringing Nichola Originals to market and defining the brand Stand Up. Be Read. TM, has been a collaborative effort on many fronts and involved many players. It all started with an idea and Rhodes Design Group was able to convert it into graphics and scope a brand. They are amazing at what they do!! Find out more about them and their work at

http://www.rhodesdesigngroup.com/.

A New Day in America?

2010-03-22T08:42:00.000-07:00

And so its the morning of Monday 3/22/2010. I woke up feeling different, like someone died and I know I won't 't see them again. Its a new age in America, freedom as we knew it will never be, what will it bring? History tells us what it will bring. I don't want to believe it....I don't want my children to experience it...I don't want to change my business practices because of it.... All these feelings swirl because I'm being forced to give what is mine and give it to someone else. But don't I do that already willfully and gladly? Don't most Americans do that already?

The Health care Bill is not about better health care it is about forced charity: in the definition of Pelosi - bundled up and packaged as if it is the continuation of the Founding Fathers' will. Please don't insult my intelligence. You couldn't be more wrong. This is so against their intentions and declaration when the United States of America became an independent nation. What Pelosi said last night didn't make sense, to combine the goals of the Health care bill with the Founding Fathers and Constitution. So much so, that she stumbled and had to look back at her notes. I was embarrassed for her.

Another quote from Ronald Reagan....

"I've never been able to understand why a Republican contributor is a 'fat cat' and a Democratic contributor of the same amount of money is a 'public-spirited philanthropist.'

Obama and Pelosi refer to Democrats voting for the bill as being for the people's welfare and Republicans who don't vote for it, well, they are just out for themselves. How wrong you are!!! No one became self reliant being given entitlements and handouts all their life....but those who are given opportunities to create themselves and earn an honest living excel.

Lets hope...hope that we can find a way back to a free America, free to make choices for our own lives, choices for our own children, choices to give and be charitable in our own way.

Verify, Then Trust

2010-03-18T14:18:00.000-07:00

9 votes needed here, 13 votes needed there....and amoung the circus it's not about the policy but about who can be bought and bribed. So sad...and I ask, how did we get here.

Today I read a little about Ronald Reagan and his relations with the Soviet Union. During which he used the phrase Trust, but Verify...he used that phrase alot especially when dealing with the Soviet Union and when asked why he always repeated the phrase, he responded "because I like it."

That phrase didn't start with Ronald Reagan and it has been used by lots of people since. I feel much the same as Reagan felt working with the Soviets, but it is with my country's leaders. We, the people, took our eye off the ball and blindly trusted our leaders, never feeling the need to verify; after all we had the protection of the Constitution and the Bill of Rights on our side.

Look where we are now. Politicians gasp at the notion that we the people are now asking the tough questions and demanding to be heard. It is amazing to see the disregard to states' rights and the noise about how they, politicians, are the grantors of the people's rights. I feel like this country has been sucker punched by both side of the isle!

I also like the phrase trust, but verify; but I'll twist the phrase around a tad - verify, then trust...with a watchful eye.

A call to action: Let's assemble, rally, and pull together to turn this ship around and get this country back on course. Then vote for leaders who have demonstrated and verified that they govern based on Constitutional principles and who honor this country's place in history.

Will Our Country Transform This Week?

2010-03-15T08:49:00.000-07:00

Its time to push harder, fight with more viligance...get the phone lines fired up with calls to your representatives!! There is no time to waste!!! CAll NOW!!!

"Tyranny, like hell, is not easily conquered; yet we have this consolation with us, that the harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph." Thomas Paine, The American Crisis, No.1, December 19, 1776

Ready, Set, Launch...

2010-03-13T08:04:00.000-08:00

Its count down to the launch of our new website! See a preview at http://www.standupberead.com/. Our photoshoot was a success thanks to our fabulous models (nothing but the best...true all American young adults - Macy, Kelsey, and Kevin) and Hollie Lytle of Lytlefoto, http://www.imageryforlife.com/ for capturing the story!!

Soon the site will be graced with the Faces of Stand Up. Be Read.TM and stories of young adults taking a stand to restore American ideals.

Samuel Adams: The Rights of the Colonist 1772

2010-03-13T07:23:00.000-08:00

The Rights of the Colonists by Samuel Adams, 11/20/1772 brought tears to my eyes knowing how close we are to loose the Republic and all for which our Founding Fathers fought. But it also brought hope in my heart knowing that the few leaders who have been fighting the honorable fight now have the power of the people behind them to push back the transformation. We've all heard the phrase 'the sleeping giant has awaken'...we must stay awake, stay alert, be viligant, question with boldness, assemble, be heard!!!

The Rights of the Colonists by Samuel Adams, The Report of the Committee of Correspondence to the Boston Town Meeting 11/20/1772
http://www.constitution.org/bcp/right_col.htm

Cradle to Grave Agenda

2010-03-02T09:25:00.000-08:00

I've come across this quote many times and it is so true. Take the emotion out of the issue and look at the wasted money pouring into programs ill utilized on those who have become dependent on the government with no motivation to support themselves and improve their life style. Stop the government's cradle to grave agenda already!!

"I am for doing good to the poor, but I differ in opinion of the means. I think the best way of doing good to the poor, is not making them easy in poverty, but leading or driving them out of it. In my youth I traveled much, and I observed in different countries, that the more public provisions were made for the poor, the less they provided for themselves, and of course became poorer. And, on the contrary, the less was done for them, the more they did for themselves, and became richer." Benjamin Franklin, On the Price of Corn and Management of the Poor, November 1766

The Cycle...

2010-02-24T18:46:00.000-08:00

There are many gratifying moments as a small business owner; creating, designing, providing products and services that people want or that fill a need. For me at the top of that list is the act of financially compensating employees for their work. A cycle or chain of events was put in motion with that act; knowing that the paycheck contributes to their lively hood, knowing they will spend money paying bills to support service providers and spend money at their local merchants...and that allows the cycle to continue by those small business owners...and so on, and so on....

"Industry is increased, commodities are multiplied, agriculture and manufacturers flourish: and herein consists the true wealth and prosperity of a state." Alexander Hamilton 1790

Happy Birthday George Washington

2010-02-22T18:24:00.000-08:00

"First in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen, he was second to none in humble and enduring scenes of private life. Pious, just humane, temperate, and sincere; uniform dignified, and commanding; his example was as edifying to all around him as were the effects of that example lasting; correct throughout, vice shuddered in his presence and virtue always felt his fostering hand. The purity of his private charter gave effulgence to his public virtues." John Marshall, official eulogy of George Washington, delivered by Richard Henry Lee 1799

"This Nation Shall Have A New Birth"

2010-02-20T18:35:00.000-08:00

Today I spent the morning watching my son practice his golf game, chipping, putting, and driving. The sun was shining and the temperature was 55 degrees...just a beautiful day. While he was playing, he moved out of my view so I decided to pull from my purse my pocket Constitution and I began to read it, again for the umpteenth time. And again, I was awed at the brilliance of our founding fathers and, again, dismayed at the profound neglect, absence, manipulation of its words in politics today.

I pondered at how the erosion of the founding principles didn't happen over night; it's been a slow, methodical evolution. I began to wonder 'who is the person today bold enough to be our modern day refounder? Who has the capacity and backbone to lead the citizens of the United States of America back to her founding principles, back to the freedoms and liberties declared at her birth? Will it be a mom who looks at her children and decides she is going to jump into the political fight on behalf of her children's freedom and future? Will it be a dad who lost his job and decided to promote his ideals and lay a new path to fight for the survival of free markets and capitalism? Is it a collection of individuals creating a movement whose force has flustered the mindset of traditional political groups?'

I drifted back to the present when my son came back into view. From the distance he looked at me with a smile on his face and I smiled back. At that moment I thought deeply on what the future will bring to this beautiful 12 year old boy. What if he chooses to have a family and children? What will their future bring? Will they live in a free country of liberties and rights protected by the Declaration of Independence and given to them by God? Will I be telling stories to my grandchildren about when the United States of America was a free nation?

Sad to loose freedom having experienced it; sad to never have had it at all! And so that's it...that's the key!! We MUST hold on to what we have. Hold on to our freedom and demand we return to the principles under which this great nation was founded...it is time for a new birth. Abraham Lincoln lead this nation through a new birth in 1863. It can be done again! We the people are in control, we the people are empowered...we can do this; the Constitution is our ammunition...it was written for us to protect us...Read it, know it...be educated...be empowered...
be hopeful...

Message Apparel

2010-02-17T10:14:00.000-08:00

The stand up be read team was in Portland this week working with Latitudes PDX finishing the details on the apparel line. Today we wrap up and head back home to finalize the product launch. A big 'thank you' to the Latitudes PDX team...we couldn't have asked for a better group of people with whom to collaborate; they are top notch and know their stuff!! Can't wait for 3/1/2010!!

Movement Soon to be Launched!

2010-01-26T09:10:00.000-08:00

Soon we will launch Stand Up. Be Read. TM, a movement whose mission is to spark conversation and education on our country's birth. We promote education on and inspiration from our country's Founding Fathers by offering products with a purpose. This blog will be used to document the launch. We hope to get many followers who are as passionate as we are to take back our country from those whose goal is to tranform it and govern it separate from the Constitution. Educate yourself, educate others.

Quote of the day...

2009-12-22T07:10:00.000-08:00