Presidents’ Day – “The First Four”

Thomas Jefferson referred to the Founding Fathers as an “Assembly of Demigods.” This was not an exaggeration. Here is an overview of just some of the accomplishments of the “First Four Presidents," all major Founding Fathers.    George Washington General of Continental Army First president Set historic precedents for the presidency ("Mr. President," 2 Terms) … Continue reading Presidents’ Day – “The First Four”

Defendant: “I am a God! You are a mere mortal!”

"Court Case Friday" One afternoon I had a large group of prisoners in the “cage” in my courtroom. I started advising them of their constitutional rights. One of the women suddenly interrupted me and screamed, “I don’t recognize you.” I thought to myself, “I don’t’ recognize you either.” She continued: Defendant: “I am a God! I don’t … Continue reading Defendant: “I am a God! You are a mere mortal!”

“There Is No Santa” Syndrome

Commentary In grade school, there were students who took sadistic delight in shattering the hopes and dreams of younger children by announcing, “There is No Santa Clause.” These students felt intellectual superior.  “I know something you don’t know.” Those infected with the “There Is No Santa” Syndrome grew up to become contemporary bubble-poppers, nitpickers, and … Continue reading “There Is No Santa” Syndrome

Jewish Hero of the American Revolution: Haym Salomon

After he sacrificed everything for the success of the Revolution, his loyalty was maligned because he was a Jew. One little known hero of the American Revolution was Haym Salomon. He was a financial hero, who sacrificed everything for the cause of liberty. Revolutions and their armies cost money. The poor thirteen colonies were going … Continue reading Jewish Hero of the American Revolution: Haym Salomon

“So Help Me God”

When I think of the petition “So help me God,” I am reminded of the phrases: “God helps those who help themselves.” “God helps those who cannot help themselves.”“God help those who get caught helping themselves.” Presidential Oath Prior to the inauguration of President Obama, an atheist filed a lawsuit to prevent Chief Justice Roberts from … Continue reading “So Help Me God”

In Honor of Presidents Day: The “Top Five” Founding Fathers

(When I was growing up, there was a separate National Holiday for Lincoln's birthday (Feb. 12) and Washington's birthday (Feb. 22), our two greatest presidents. Those holidays are now smooshed into one Presidents Day, and so no one remembers when Lincoln and Washington were born. Some people think that is for the best. I don't.) … Continue reading In Honor of Presidents Day: The “Top Five” Founding Fathers

“Intent of the Founders” — Separation of Church and State

The Founders Disagreed and Held Different Opinions During political arguments and constitutional debates people often cite the “intent of the Founders” to prove their point. However, discerning the “intent” is not as easy as people think. The Founders were independent thinkers with strong personal opinions. They were not united in their beliefs, statements, or actions. … Continue reading “Intent of the Founders” — Separation of Church and State

Booker T. Washington: Truth and right are not determined by a majority

Great Quotes Booker T. Washington (1856-1915) is an American hero and role model. Raised in slavery, he became the leading advocate for former slaves and their descendants. He devoted his life to fighting Jim Crow discrimination and championing civil rights.    Washington worked in the brutal coal mines and salt furnaces in West Virginia in … Continue reading Booker T. Washington: Truth and right are not determined by a majority

Benedict Arnold: From American War Hero to Traitor to Enemy

  The Native American Indians tell the tale of a tribal elder teaching his grandson: “There are two wolves inside every person, one good and one evil. They are constantly fighting for dominance, to see which one will win. Grandson, which wolf will win.”  “I don’t know grandfather.”  “The one you feed.”  That is the story … Continue reading Benedict Arnold: From American War Hero to Traitor to Enemy