September 1
"The longer I live, the more I read, the more patiently I think, and the more anxiously I inquire, the less I seem to know...Do justly. Love mercy. Walk humbly (with your God). This is enough."
John Adams, 2nd President, 1797-1801
From a letter to his grand daughter, Caroline Abigail Smith de Wendt on January 24, 1820. The letter speaks specifically to a vaccine and scientific advancement. The context of the letter appears to answer the question of why we, as humans, know so little and are slow to make discoveries and improvements.
Ever the Puritan from Massachusetts, Adams ends with: "Worm! Ask no such questions!...This is enough for you to know and do. The world is a better one than you deserve; strive to make yourself more worthy of it."
In closing, he softens the message: "So questions, and so answers your affectionate grandfather, John Adams" ; Journal and Correspondence of Miss Adams, Daughter of John Adams,Edited by her daughter, Wiley and Putnam, New York and London, 1841.
John Adams and Abigail Smith Adams had five children- three boys and two girls. Their eldest daughter, Abigail, married William Stephens Smith and Caroline was their youngest daughter. She would have been about twenty five years old at the time the letter was written to her.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
A five legged dog?
"How many legs does a dog have if you call the tail a leg? Four. Calling a tail a leg doesn't make it a leg."
Abraham Lincoln, 16th President, 1861-1865 Lincoln's main goal in pursuing the Civil War was to keep the union together. He, like other Presidents before him, did not personally favor slavery. To gain support, he had to convince the nation that freeing the slaves would preserve the union, besides for the obvious moral reasons. His insight was that freeing the slaves would cripple the south's ability to support itself in the war effort. Since the slaves worked the farms, they enabled the "free" men to fight. The confederates would have to re-allocate manpower away form the war effort to continue to support itself. Lincoln was concerned that a proclamation that the slaves would be freed may not in fact liberate them. There were logistical questions and debates as to what would and should happen once they were declared free. This saying may have arisen from the discussion of what might be the true results of issuing The Emancipation Proclamation. (http://timpangos.wordpress.com/2007/05/23/lincoln-quote-sourced-calfs-tail-not-dogs-tail)
Abraham Lincoln, 16th President, 1861-1865 Lincoln's main goal in pursuing the Civil War was to keep the union together. He, like other Presidents before him, did not personally favor slavery. To gain support, he had to convince the nation that freeing the slaves would preserve the union, besides for the obvious moral reasons. His insight was that freeing the slaves would cripple the south's ability to support itself in the war effort. Since the slaves worked the farms, they enabled the "free" men to fight. The confederates would have to re-allocate manpower away form the war effort to continue to support itself. Lincoln was concerned that a proclamation that the slaves would be freed may not in fact liberate them. There were logistical questions and debates as to what would and should happen once they were declared free. This saying may have arisen from the discussion of what might be the true results of issuing The Emancipation Proclamation. (http://timpangos.wordpress.com/2007/05/23/lincoln-quote-sourced-calfs-tail-not-dogs-tail)
Monday, August 29, 2011
"I don't get no respect..."
"Washington is a city of Southern efficiency and Northern charm."
John F. Kennedy, 35th President, 1961-1963
So how did Washington D.C. become the nation's capital?
Philadelphia had been the city where the Continental Congress had met and where the Declaration of Independence had been signed. So why not name "The City of Brotherly Love" as the capital?
New York would also have been a logical choice-to the Northerners.
Southerners feared that doing so would give too much power to the North and already talk of secession began.
To complicate matters, Alexander Hamilton, Secretary of the Treasury, suggested that the Federal government assume all of the states' loans which were taken in fighting the Revolution.
Enter Thomas Jefferson. He invited Hamilton and James Madison to dinner at Jefferson's Virginia home at Monticello to discuss the matter. Hamilton suggested that the capital remain in Philadelphia for ten years and then be moved permanently to a more southerly spot on the Potomac River, shared by Virginia and Maryland. In exchange, Hamilton persuaded Jefferson and Madison to change their delegations' vote to allow the Federal government assume the states' debts from the Revolution.
Legislation was passed and President Washington was given the power to define the boundaries of the city. He commissioned French architect and engineer, Pierre Charles L'Enfant, to survey and design the city.
In 1800 John and Abigail Adams became the first residents of what has come to be called "The White House."
John F. Kennedy, 35th President, 1961-1963
So how did Washington D.C. become the nation's capital?
Philadelphia had been the city where the Continental Congress had met and where the Declaration of Independence had been signed. So why not name "The City of Brotherly Love" as the capital?
New York would also have been a logical choice-to the Northerners.
Southerners feared that doing so would give too much power to the North and already talk of secession began.
To complicate matters, Alexander Hamilton, Secretary of the Treasury, suggested that the Federal government assume all of the states' loans which were taken in fighting the Revolution.
Enter Thomas Jefferson. He invited Hamilton and James Madison to dinner at Jefferson's Virginia home at Monticello to discuss the matter. Hamilton suggested that the capital remain in Philadelphia for ten years and then be moved permanently to a more southerly spot on the Potomac River, shared by Virginia and Maryland. In exchange, Hamilton persuaded Jefferson and Madison to change their delegations' vote to allow the Federal government assume the states' debts from the Revolution.
Legislation was passed and President Washington was given the power to define the boundaries of the city. He commissioned French architect and engineer, Pierre Charles L'Enfant, to survey and design the city.
In 1800 John and Abigail Adams became the first residents of what has come to be called "The White House."
Sunday, August 28, 2011
True in 1890; true today?
"In time of darkest defeat, victory may be nearest."
William McKinley, 25th President, 1897-1901
McKinley contended that the only way to reach free trade was through the operation of the policy of protection, or tariffs, to reach the point where we could fully supply our own demands. Under his leadership, the "McKinley Law" was passed in 1890, an election year. The results were not immediately perceived and the act was denounced as increasing the burdens of taxation. As a result, along with a congressional gerrymandering , McKinley and others in his party were defeated for election. It seemed to be a dark time for him and the Republican party. McKinley, however, did not waver in his beliefs and the law took effect and U.S. manufacturing began, starting with tin plates. Thus McKinley's policy and law was vindicated and subsequently he was elected governor of Ohio in the following election. The rest, as they say, is history, as he eventually ascended to the Presidency several years later. Notes of a Busy Life; Foraker, Joseph Benson; Stewart & Kidd Company; Cincinnati, Ohio; 1917; p 99
William McKinley, 25th President, 1897-1901
McKinley contended that the only way to reach free trade was through the operation of the policy of protection, or tariffs, to reach the point where we could fully supply our own demands. Under his leadership, the "McKinley Law" was passed in 1890, an election year. The results were not immediately perceived and the act was denounced as increasing the burdens of taxation. As a result, along with a congressional gerrymandering , McKinley and others in his party were defeated for election. It seemed to be a dark time for him and the Republican party. McKinley, however, did not waver in his beliefs and the law took effect and U.S. manufacturing began, starting with tin plates. Thus McKinley's policy and law was vindicated and subsequently he was elected governor of Ohio in the following election. The rest, as they say, is history, as he eventually ascended to the Presidency several years later. Notes of a Busy Life; Foraker, Joseph Benson; Stewart & Kidd Company; Cincinnati, Ohio; 1917; p 99
Saturday, August 27, 2011
The road less travelled
"My choice early in life was either to be a piano player in a whorehouse or politician. And to tell the truth, there's hardly any difference."
Harry S. Truman, 33rd President, 1945-1953
As quoted in Esquire, Vol. 76 (1971), also in Truman's Crises : A Political Biography of Harry S. Truman (1980) by Harold Foote Gosnell, p. 9 As a young boy, Truman had three main interests: music, reading, and history, all encouraged by his mother, to whom he was very close. As president, he solicited political as well as personal advice from her.[8] He got up at five every morning to practice the piano, which he studied twice a week until he was fifteen.[9] Truman was a page at the 1900 Democratic National Convention at Convention Hall in Kansas City. (http://enc.tfode.com/Harry_S._Truman) He was considered quite good and recordings of his playing can be found on current sites, such as youtube.com.
Harry S. Truman, 33rd President, 1945-1953
As quoted in Esquire, Vol. 76 (1971), also in Truman's Crises : A Political Biography of Harry S. Truman (1980) by Harold Foote Gosnell, p. 9 As a young boy, Truman had three main interests: music, reading, and history, all encouraged by his mother, to whom he was very close. As president, he solicited political as well as personal advice from her.[8] He got up at five every morning to practice the piano, which he studied twice a week until he was fifteen.[9] Truman was a page at the 1900 Democratic National Convention at Convention Hall in Kansas City. (http://enc.tfode.com/Harry_S._Truman) He was considered quite good and recordings of his playing can be found on current sites, such as youtube.com.
Friday, August 26, 2011
The Great Society
Until justice is blind to color, until education is unaware of race, until opportunity is unconcerned with the color of men's skins, emancipation will be a proclamation but not a fact.
Lyndon Baines Johnson, Birthdate August 27, 1908, 36th President 1963-1969http://www.lbjlibrary.org/
MESSAGE TO CONGRESS MARCH 15,1965- after the attack on the Freedom Riders in Selma, Alabama
At times history and fate meet at a single time in a single place to shape a turning point in man's unending search for freedom. So it was at Lexington and Concord. So it was a century ago at Appomattox. So it was last week in Selma, Alabama.
There, long-suffering men and women peacefully protested the denial of their rights as Americans. Many were brutally assaulted. One good man, a man of God, was killed...
In our time we have come to live with moments of great crisis. Our lives have been marked with debate about great issues; issues of war and peace, issues of prosperity and depression. But rarely in any time does an issue lay bare the secret heart of America itself. Rarely are we met with a challenge, not to our growth or abundance, our welfare or our security, but rather to the values and the purposes and the meaning of our beloved Nation.
The issue of equal rights for American Negroes is such an issue. And should we defeat every enemy, should we double our wealth and conquer the stars, and still be unequal to this issue, then we will have failed as a people and as a nation.
Lyndon Baines Johnson, Birthdate August 27, 1908, 36th President 1963-1969http://www.lbjlibrary.org/
MESSAGE TO CONGRESS MARCH 15,1965- after the attack on the Freedom Riders in Selma, Alabama
At times history and fate meet at a single time in a single place to shape a turning point in man's unending search for freedom. So it was at Lexington and Concord. So it was a century ago at Appomattox. So it was last week in Selma, Alabama.
There, long-suffering men and women peacefully protested the denial of their rights as Americans. Many were brutally assaulted. One good man, a man of God, was killed...
In our time we have come to live with moments of great crisis. Our lives have been marked with debate about great issues; issues of war and peace, issues of prosperity and depression. But rarely in any time does an issue lay bare the secret heart of America itself. Rarely are we met with a challenge, not to our growth or abundance, our welfare or our security, but rather to the values and the purposes and the meaning of our beloved Nation.
The issue of equal rights for American Negroes is such an issue. And should we defeat every enemy, should we double our wealth and conquer the stars, and still be unequal to this issue, then we will have failed as a people and as a nation.
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Leaders lead
August 26, 2011
We choose to go (to the moon)...not because it is easy, but because it is hard... because the challenge is one that we are willing to accept, one we are unwilling to postpone, and one which we intend to win.
John F. Kennedy, 35th President, 1961-1963
...because that goal will serve organize and measure the best of our energies and skills...
We set sail on this new sea because there is new knowledge to be gained, and new rights to be won, and must be won and used for the progress of all people.
(excerpt from speech given at Rice University in Houston, Texas on September 12, 1962.) Houston did become NASA's Mission Control Center.
We choose to go (to the moon)...not because it is easy, but because it is hard... because the challenge is one that we are willing to accept, one we are unwilling to postpone, and one which we intend to win.
John F. Kennedy, 35th President, 1961-1963
...because that goal will serve organize and measure the best of our energies and skills...
We set sail on this new sea because there is new knowledge to be gained, and new rights to be won, and must be won and used for the progress of all people.
(excerpt from speech given at Rice University in Houston, Texas on September 12, 1962.) Houston did become NASA's Mission Control Center.
Toastmasters say...
"Be sincere, be brief, be seated."
Franklin D. Roosevelt, 32nd President, 1933-1945 Apparently advice to his son, James, on giving a speech. Roosevelt's oldest son, James, 1907-1991, had a varied career as an aide to his father, military officer, diplomat, California state representative, and an insurance executive. See more at en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Roosevelt
Franklin D. Roosevelt, 32nd President, 1933-1945 Apparently advice to his son, James, on giving a speech. Roosevelt's oldest son, James, 1907-1991, had a varied career as an aide to his father, military officer, diplomat, California state representative, and an insurance executive. See more at en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Roosevelt
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
In "the zone"
"I can take it. The tougher it gets the cooler I get."
Richard M. Nixon, 37th President, 1969-1974
That's what star athletes say...
News conference October 26, 1973 This press conference dealt with the current middle east crisis, involving Russia at that time, and the breaking Watergate scandel and the discovery of Presidential tapes and questions regarding Nixon's knowledge of that event and possible cover-up: Q. -- and a lot of people have been wondering how you are bearing up emotionally under the stress of recent events. Can you discuss that? THE PRESIDENT. Well, those who saw me during the Middle East crisis thought I bore up rather well, and, Mr. Terhorst, I have a quality which is--I guess I must have inherited it from my Midwestern mother and father--which is that the tougher it gets, the cooler I get. Of course, it isn't pleasant to get criticism. Some of it is justified, of course. It isn't pleasant to find your honesty questioned... Those are things which, of course, do tend to get under the skin of the man who holds this office. But as far as I am concerned, I have learned to expect it. It has been my lot throughout my political life, and I suppose because I have been through so much, that may be one of the reasons that when I have to face an international crisis, I have what it takes.
Richard M. Nixon, 37th President, 1969-1974
That's what star athletes say...
News conference October 26, 1973 This press conference dealt with the current middle east crisis, involving Russia at that time, and the breaking Watergate scandel and the discovery of Presidential tapes and questions regarding Nixon's knowledge of that event and possible cover-up: Q. -- and a lot of people have been wondering how you are bearing up emotionally under the stress of recent events. Can you discuss that? THE PRESIDENT. Well, those who saw me during the Middle East crisis thought I bore up rather well, and, Mr. Terhorst, I have a quality which is--I guess I must have inherited it from my Midwestern mother and father--which is that the tougher it gets, the cooler I get. Of course, it isn't pleasant to get criticism. Some of it is justified, of course. It isn't pleasant to find your honesty questioned... Those are things which, of course, do tend to get under the skin of the man who holds this office. But as far as I am concerned, I have learned to expect it. It has been my lot throughout my political life, and I suppose because I have been through so much, that may be one of the reasons that when I have to face an international crisis, I have what it takes.
Monday, August 22, 2011
What...?
"I think we agree, the past is over."
George W. Bush, 43rd President, 2011-2009
On his meeting with John McCain, Dallas Morning News, May 10, 2000.
Bush and McCain had been contending for the Republican nomination for the Presidency. It became clear that Bush had more support and McCain announced he would support Bush.
In keeping with his sometimes befuddling turns of a phrase, Bush accepted McCain's truce and McCain did speak for Bush at the Republican National Convention.
George W. Bush, 43rd President, 2011-2009
On his meeting with John McCain, Dallas Morning News, May 10, 2000.
Bush and McCain had been contending for the Republican nomination for the Presidency. It became clear that Bush had more support and McCain announced he would support Bush.
In keeping with his sometimes befuddling turns of a phrase, Bush accepted McCain's truce and McCain did speak for Bush at the Republican National Convention.
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Monday, August 15, 2011
That's a good one
August 22, 2001
"Thomas Jefferson once said, 'We should never judge a president by his age, only by his works.' And ever since he told me that, I stopped worrying."
Ronald Reagan, 40th President, 1981-1989
Remarks at a White House Briefing for the National Alliance of Senior Citizens February 29, 1984 You know, I've been around awhile myself. [Laughter] One of my favorite quotations about age comes from Thomas Jefferson. He said that we should never judge a President by his age, only by his work. And ever since he told me that -- I've stopped worrying. And just to show you how youthful I am, I intend to campaign in all 13 States. [Laughter] But in our society, senior citizens play a vital role. Senior citizens provide invaluable skill, talent, and wisdom that can come only with years. I always remember that Winston Churchill was almost 65 when World War II broke out, but he carried England through all those bitter years and on to victory. And I think, if I remember correctly, that Adenauer, when he was bringing about economic recovery in West Germany after the war, was 80 or better. Reagan was the oldest U.S. President and frequently made jokes and references about his age, most times turning a challenging question to his advantage. Thanks to video technology and utube, we still have a large amount of material still available.
"Thomas Jefferson once said, 'We should never judge a president by his age, only by his works.' And ever since he told me that, I stopped worrying."
Ronald Reagan, 40th President, 1981-1989
Remarks at a White House Briefing for the National Alliance of Senior Citizens February 29, 1984 You know, I've been around awhile myself. [Laughter] One of my favorite quotations about age comes from Thomas Jefferson. He said that we should never judge a President by his age, only by his work. And ever since he told me that -- I've stopped worrying. And just to show you how youthful I am, I intend to campaign in all 13 States. [Laughter] But in our society, senior citizens play a vital role. Senior citizens provide invaluable skill, talent, and wisdom that can come only with years. I always remember that Winston Churchill was almost 65 when World War II broke out, but he carried England through all those bitter years and on to victory. And I think, if I remember correctly, that Adenauer, when he was bringing about economic recovery in West Germany after the war, was 80 or better. Reagan was the oldest U.S. President and frequently made jokes and references about his age, most times turning a challenging question to his advantage. Thanks to video technology and utube, we still have a large amount of material still available.
90 years old ain't bad
August 21, 2011
"I inhabit a weak, frail, decayed tenement; battered by the winds and broken in on by the storms, and, from all I can learn, the landlord does not intend to repair."
John Adams, 2nd President, 1797-1801 In 1846 former president John Quincy Adams suffered a stroke. Although he returned to Congress the following year, his health was clearly failing. Daniel Webster described his last meeting with Adams: “Someone, a friend of his, came in and made particular inquiry of his health. Adams answered, ‘I inhabit a weak, frail, decayed tenement; battered by the winds and broken in upon by the storms, and from all I can learn, the landlord does not intend to repair.’“ Today in the Word, April 11, 1992- John Quincy Adams
"I inhabit a weak, frail, decayed tenement; battered by the winds and broken in on by the storms, and, from all I can learn, the landlord does not intend to repair."
John Adams, 2nd President, 1797-1801 In 1846 former president John Quincy Adams suffered a stroke. Although he returned to Congress the following year, his health was clearly failing. Daniel Webster described his last meeting with Adams: “Someone, a friend of his, came in and made particular inquiry of his health. Adams answered, ‘I inhabit a weak, frail, decayed tenement; battered by the winds and broken in upon by the storms, and from all I can learn, the landlord does not intend to repair.’“ Today in the Word, April 11, 1992- John Quincy Adams
3rd generation
August 20, 2011
"Great lives never go out; they go on."
Benjamin Harrison, 23rd President, 1889-1893, Born this day 1833 On August 20, 1891, Harrison visited Mount McGregor, New York, where former President and civil war hero, Ulysses S. Grant had died in 1885. Harrison delivered a short speech in honor of Grant. In part, he said: "We are gathered here in a spot which is historic. This mountain has been fixed in the affectionate and reverent memory of all our people and has been glorified by the death on its summit of Gcu. Ulysses S. Grant. It is fit that that great spirit that had already lifted its fame to a height unknown in American history should take its light from this mountain-top. It has been said that a great life went out here; but great lives, like that of General Grant, do not go out. They go on'. His quote is inscribed on Harrison's own tomb in Indiana.
"Great lives never go out; they go on."
Benjamin Harrison, 23rd President, 1889-1893, Born this day 1833 On August 20, 1891, Harrison visited Mount McGregor, New York, where former President and civil war hero, Ulysses S. Grant had died in 1885. Harrison delivered a short speech in honor of Grant. In part, he said: "We are gathered here in a spot which is historic. This mountain has been fixed in the affectionate and reverent memory of all our people and has been glorified by the death on its summit of Gcu. Ulysses S. Grant. It is fit that that great spirit that had already lifted its fame to a height unknown in American history should take its light from this mountain-top. It has been said that a great life went out here; but great lives, like that of General Grant, do not go out. They go on'. His quote is inscribed on Harrison's own tomb in Indiana.
True truth
August 19, 2001
"When our memories outweigh our dreams, we have grown old."
Bill Clinton, 42nd President, 1993-2001, Born this day 1946 2000 State of the Union Address Thursday, January 27, 2000 After 224 years, the American revolution continues. We remain a new nation. And as long as our dreams outweigh our memories, America will be forever young. That is our destiny. And this is our moment. You know, when the framers finished crafting our Constitution in Philadelphia, Benjamin Franklin stood in Independence Hall and he reflected on the carving of the sun that was on the back of a chair he saw. The sun was low on the horizon. So he said this -- he said, "I've often wondered whether that sun was rising or setting. Today," Franklin said, "I have the happiness to know it's a rising sun." Today, because each succeeding generation of Americans has kept the fire of freedom burning brightly, lighting those frontiers of possibility, we all still bask in the glow and the warmth of Mr. Franklin's rising sun.
"When our memories outweigh our dreams, we have grown old."
Bill Clinton, 42nd President, 1993-2001, Born this day 1946 2000 State of the Union Address Thursday, January 27, 2000 After 224 years, the American revolution continues. We remain a new nation. And as long as our dreams outweigh our memories, America will be forever young. That is our destiny. And this is our moment. You know, when the framers finished crafting our Constitution in Philadelphia, Benjamin Franklin stood in Independence Hall and he reflected on the carving of the sun that was on the back of a chair he saw. The sun was low on the horizon. So he said this -- he said, "I've often wondered whether that sun was rising or setting. Today," Franklin said, "I have the happiness to know it's a rising sun." Today, because each succeeding generation of Americans has kept the fire of freedom burning brightly, lighting those frontiers of possibility, we all still bask in the glow and the warmth of Mr. Franklin's rising sun.
Excuse me?
August 18, 2011
From several of the Indian tribes inhabiting the country bordering on Lake Erie, purchases have been made of lands on conditions very favorable to the United States, and , as it is presumed, not less so to the tribes.
James Monroe, 5th President, 1817-1825
From several of the Indian tribes inhabiting the country bordering on Lake Erie, purchases have been made of lands on conditions very favorable to the United States, and , as it is presumed, not less so to the tribes.
James Monroe, 5th President, 1817-1825
"A" students teach, "B" students work for "C" students
August 17, 2011
"To those of you who received honors, awards, and distinctions, I say, 'Well done.' And to the "C" students, I say: 'You, too, can be president of the United States.' "
George W. Bush, 43rd President, 2001-2009
JUST HAVING SOME PRE 9-1-1 FUN Commencement Address at Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut May 21, 2001 President Levin, thank you very much. Dean Brodhead; fellows of the Yale Corporation; fellow Yale parents, families, and graduates. It's a special privilege to receive this honorary degree. I was proud 33 years ago to receive my first Yale degree; I'm even prouder that in your eyes, I've earned this one. Most important, congratulations to the class of 2001. To those of you who received honors, awards, and distinctions, I say, well done. And to the C students I say, you, too, can be President of the United States. [Laughter] A Yale degree is worth a lot, as I often remind Dick Cheney—[laughter]—who studied here but left a little early. So now we know: If you graduate from Yale, you become President; if you drop out, you get to be Vice President. [Laughter]
"To those of you who received honors, awards, and distinctions, I say, 'Well done.' And to the "C" students, I say: 'You, too, can be president of the United States.' "
George W. Bush, 43rd President, 2001-2009
JUST HAVING SOME PRE 9-1-1 FUN Commencement Address at Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut May 21, 2001 President Levin, thank you very much. Dean Brodhead; fellows of the Yale Corporation; fellow Yale parents, families, and graduates. It's a special privilege to receive this honorary degree. I was proud 33 years ago to receive my first Yale degree; I'm even prouder that in your eyes, I've earned this one. Most important, congratulations to the class of 2001. To those of you who received honors, awards, and distinctions, I say, well done. And to the C students I say, you, too, can be President of the United States. [Laughter] A Yale degree is worth a lot, as I often remind Dick Cheney—[laughter]—who studied here but left a little early. So now we know: If you graduate from Yale, you become President; if you drop out, you get to be Vice President. [Laughter]
Is that so wrong?
"We draw the line against misconduct, not against wealth."
Theodore Roosevelt, 26th President, 1901-1909 MESSAGE OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES COMMUNICATED TO THE TWO HOUSES OF CONGRESS AT THE BEGINNING OF THE SECOND SESSION OF THE FIFTY-SEVENTH CONGRESS December 2, 1902 In my Message to the present Congress at its first session I discussed at length the question of the regulation of those big corporations commonly doing an interstate business, often with some tendency to monopoly, which are popularly known as trusts. Corporations, and especially combinations of corporations, should be managed under public regulation. Experience has shown that under our system of government the necessary supervision can not be obtained by State action. It must therefore be achieved by national action. Our aim is not to do away with corporations; on the contrary, these big aggregations are an inevitable development of modern industrialism... we are not attacking the corporations, but endeavoring to do away with any evil in them. We are not hostile to them; we are merely determined that they shall be so handled as to subserve the public good. We draw the line against misconduct, not against wealth. The capitalist who, alone or in conjunction with his fellows, performs some great industrial feat by which he wins money is a welldoer, not a wrongdoer, pro vided only he works in proper and legitimate lines. We wish to favor such a man when he does well.
Theodore Roosevelt, 26th President, 1901-1909 MESSAGE OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES COMMUNICATED TO THE TWO HOUSES OF CONGRESS AT THE BEGINNING OF THE SECOND SESSION OF THE FIFTY-SEVENTH CONGRESS December 2, 1902 In my Message to the present Congress at its first session I discussed at length the question of the regulation of those big corporations commonly doing an interstate business, often with some tendency to monopoly, which are popularly known as trusts. Corporations, and especially combinations of corporations, should be managed under public regulation. Experience has shown that under our system of government the necessary supervision can not be obtained by State action. It must therefore be achieved by national action. Our aim is not to do away with corporations; on the contrary, these big aggregations are an inevitable development of modern industrialism... we are not attacking the corporations, but endeavoring to do away with any evil in them. We are not hostile to them; we are merely determined that they shall be so handled as to subserve the public good. We draw the line against misconduct, not against wealth. The capitalist who, alone or in conjunction with his fellows, performs some great industrial feat by which he wins money is a welldoer, not a wrongdoer, pro vided only he works in proper and legitimate lines. We wish to favor such a man when he does well.
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Well, this is a fine mess...
"Washington D.C. is 12 square miles bordered by reality."
Andrew Johnson, 17th President, 1865-1869
Andrew Johnson was selected by Lincoln as his Republican Vice Presidential running mate in 1864 as a Pro-Union Senator from the south. Johnson was also Pro Slavery, as he believed it was supported by the Constitution.
Had Lincoln lived, Johnson might have served as a passable Vice President, but as President, he could not (and did not care to try) please the "Victorious" northern interests and was seen as a traitor by the southern aristocracy. Johnson had wanted to divide the plantations and give parcels to the Confederate soldiers who had fought in the war.
The Reconstruction of the Union basically was a failure under Johnson. Southern states were re-instated but Congress did not re-admit former Confederate leaders to the House. The former slaves were to have been granted full rights but Johnson did not support that legislation. These policies and decisions led to two impeachment attempts.
He accomplished very little during his term and was not re-elected.
He was re-elected as a Democratic senator in 1875.
Andrew Johnson, 17th President, 1865-1869
Andrew Johnson was selected by Lincoln as his Republican Vice Presidential running mate in 1864 as a Pro-Union Senator from the south. Johnson was also Pro Slavery, as he believed it was supported by the Constitution.
Had Lincoln lived, Johnson might have served as a passable Vice President, but as President, he could not (and did not care to try) please the "Victorious" northern interests and was seen as a traitor by the southern aristocracy. Johnson had wanted to divide the plantations and give parcels to the Confederate soldiers who had fought in the war.
The Reconstruction of the Union basically was a failure under Johnson. Southern states were re-instated but Congress did not re-admit former Confederate leaders to the House. The former slaves were to have been granted full rights but Johnson did not support that legislation. These policies and decisions led to two impeachment attempts.
He accomplished very little during his term and was not re-elected.
He was re-elected as a Democratic senator in 1875.
Saturday, August 13, 2011
That's some good advice. Thanks, Grandpa Jefferson
"Nothing gives one person so much advantage over another as to remain always cool and unruffled under all circumstances."
Thomas Jefferson, 3rd President, 1801-1809
"honesty, disinterestedness, and good nature are indispensable to procure the esteem and confidence of those with whom we live, and on whose esteem our happiness depends. never suffer a thought to be harbored in your mind which you would not avow openly. when tempted to do any thing in secret, ask yourself if you would do it in public. if you would not, be sure it is wrong.
... at all times, practice yourself in good humor. this, of all human qualities, is the most amiable and endearing to society. whenever you feel a warmth of temper rising, check it at once, and suppress it, recollecting it will make you unhappy within yourself, and disliked by others. nothing gives one person so great advantage over another, as to remain always cool and unruffled under all circumstances. think of these things, practice them & you will be rewarded by the love & confidence of the world." http://www.monticello.org/site/research-and-collections
Francis Eppes was the grandson of Thomas Jefferson. At the time this letter was written, Eppes would have been 15 years old and apparently was receiving some grandfatherly advice upon embarking on his education and career.
Eppes went on to become, among other things, mayor of Tallahassee, Florida and in 1857 helped fund and found the State Seminary West of the Suwanee River which came to be known as as Florida State University.
Thomas Jefferson, 3rd President, 1801-1809
Extract from letter of Thomas Jefferson to Francis Eppes, May 21, 1816
"honesty, disinterestedness, and good nature are indispensable to procure the esteem and confidence of those with whom we live, and on whose esteem our happiness depends. never suffer a thought to be harbored in your mind which you would not avow openly. when tempted to do any thing in secret, ask yourself if you would do it in public. if you would not, be sure it is wrong.
... at all times, practice yourself in good humor. this, of all human qualities, is the most amiable and endearing to society. whenever you feel a warmth of temper rising, check it at once, and suppress it, recollecting it will make you unhappy within yourself, and disliked by others. nothing gives one person so great advantage over another, as to remain always cool and unruffled under all circumstances. think of these things, practice them & you will be rewarded by the love & confidence of the world." http://www.monticello.org/site/research-and-collections
Francis Eppes was the grandson of Thomas Jefferson. At the time this letter was written, Eppes would have been 15 years old and apparently was receiving some grandfatherly advice upon embarking on his education and career.
Eppes went on to become, among other things, mayor of Tallahassee, Florida and in 1857 helped fund and found the State Seminary West of the Suwanee River which came to be known as as Florida State University.
Friday, August 12, 2011
August 13
"If Lincoln were alive today, he'd be turning over in his grave."
Gerald R Ford, 38th President, 1974-1979
Gerald R. Ford ascended to the Presidency when Richard Nixon resigned under pressure from the Watergate scandal.
Ford is often depicted an as a bumbler but did have a hand in two of the most pivotal events in recent U.S. history. He pardoned Nixon, in the national interest of putting the scandal behind us. He also was a member of the Warren Commission which declared that President John F. Kennedy was assassinated by the lone gunman, Lee Harvey Oswald. Controversy still swirls today that the assassination was the result of a conspiracy.
In the 70's, the nation was emerging from the aforementioned Watergate Scandal, the end of the Vietnam War, the numerous assassination in the 60's, the Civil Rights movement, and a questionable economy with inflation and rising prices.
In that context, his quote takes on some perspective, although Lincoln's time in office was "a bit" tumultuous as well. To understand the thought process of perhaps any leader, the following is a portion of a press conference with Ford in Knoxville, Tennessee on October 7, 1975: 'Q. President Ford, it has been reported that one of Abraham Lincoln's Cabinet members asked him why he continually joked about grave situations, to which he replied something to the effect of: "If I didn't joke, surely the pressures of the office would crush me." Do you come in contact with these pressures, and how do you cope with them? THE PRESIDENT. To some extent, I take pretty much the attitude that President Lincoln did, as you expressed them. I don't believe that you should be a Worrier or a fretter. I think you have to take the problems as they come. You have to give your best effort mentally and physically. You have to make a decision, and hopefully that decision is right, and you have to go on to the next one. But, if you worry and worry and worry, I think that eventually affects your other judgment, so in my case, in perhaps somewhat the same way, I handle it as President Lincoln did.' Source: http://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/
Gerald R Ford, 38th President, 1974-1979
Gerald R. Ford ascended to the Presidency when Richard Nixon resigned under pressure from the Watergate scandal.
Ford is often depicted an as a bumbler but did have a hand in two of the most pivotal events in recent U.S. history. He pardoned Nixon, in the national interest of putting the scandal behind us. He also was a member of the Warren Commission which declared that President John F. Kennedy was assassinated by the lone gunman, Lee Harvey Oswald. Controversy still swirls today that the assassination was the result of a conspiracy.
In the 70's, the nation was emerging from the aforementioned Watergate Scandal, the end of the Vietnam War, the numerous assassination in the 60's, the Civil Rights movement, and a questionable economy with inflation and rising prices.
In that context, his quote takes on some perspective, although Lincoln's time in office was "a bit" tumultuous as well. To understand the thought process of perhaps any leader, the following is a portion of a press conference with Ford in Knoxville, Tennessee on October 7, 1975: 'Q. President Ford, it has been reported that one of Abraham Lincoln's Cabinet members asked him why he continually joked about grave situations, to which he replied something to the effect of: "If I didn't joke, surely the pressures of the office would crush me." Do you come in contact with these pressures, and how do you cope with them? THE PRESIDENT. To some extent, I take pretty much the attitude that President Lincoln did, as you expressed them. I don't believe that you should be a Worrier or a fretter. I think you have to take the problems as they come. You have to give your best effort mentally and physically. You have to make a decision, and hopefully that decision is right, and you have to go on to the next one. But, if you worry and worry and worry, I think that eventually affects your other judgment, so in my case, in perhaps somewhat the same way, I handle it as President Lincoln did.' Source: http://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Unlimited talk, text, and data...
"An amazing invention-but who would ever want to use one?" - on the telephone
Rutherford B. Hayes, 19th President, 1877-1881
The patent for the telephone was issued to Alexander Graham Bell on March 7, 1876. Bell offered to sell the patent to Western Union for $100,000.00 but was turned down as his invention was considered only a toy. Two years later, the president of Western Union said $25 million would be a bargain.
So Hayes was not alone in his original assessment of the telephone. The sound quality was improved with the help of an idea from Thomas Edison and the distance over which the sound traveled was also improved. By 1886 over 150,000 people owned telephones and Bell's patent as the creator of the telephone technology was challenged, the case being heard all the way up to the Supreme Court.
On January 25, 1915 the first intercontinental phone call was placed from New York to San Francisco.
It appears "Ma Bell" was stirring up interest and controversy even back then.
Rutherford B. Hayes, 19th President, 1877-1881
The patent for the telephone was issued to Alexander Graham Bell on March 7, 1876. Bell offered to sell the patent to Western Union for $100,000.00 but was turned down as his invention was considered only a toy. Two years later, the president of Western Union said $25 million would be a bargain.
So Hayes was not alone in his original assessment of the telephone. The sound quality was improved with the help of an idea from Thomas Edison and the distance over which the sound traveled was also improved. By 1886 over 150,000 people owned telephones and Bell's patent as the creator of the telephone technology was challenged, the case being heard all the way up to the Supreme Court.
On January 25, 1915 the first intercontinental phone call was placed from New York to San Francisco.
It appears "Ma Bell" was stirring up interest and controversy even back then.
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Say what?
"No man ever listened himself out of a job."
Calvin Coolidge, 30th President, 1923-1929
Coolidge was known as a man of being very few words. There is a story of a dinner at the White House where a guest told Coolidge that she had made a bet that she could get the president to say more than two words. His reply : "You lose."
Calvin Coolidge, 30th President, 1923-1929
Coolidge was known as a man of being very few words. There is a story of a dinner at the White House where a guest told Coolidge that she had made a bet that she could get the president to say more than two words. His reply : "You lose."
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
See?
"Words without actions are the assassins of idealism."
Herbert Hoover, 31st President, 1929-1933, Born August 10, 1874
In October 1897, a London mining firm asked its American representative to recommend a candidate with thirty-five years of age and seven years of experience to work the newly capitalized mines of Australia. The twenty-three-year-old Hoover inflated his credentials, grew a mustache to make himself look older, and acquired a natty tweed outfit suitable for his London interview.
He got the job. (Two years later, Hoover wrote from the hellish heat of Australia's outback, "Take it (back). I haven't worn it yet. Australia, concluded Hoover, was a land of "red dust, black flies, and red heat."
Bob Dole, Great Presidential Wit, Simon & Schuster, 2001
Herbert Hoover, 31st President, 1929-1933, Born August 10, 1874
In October 1897, a London mining firm asked its American representative to recommend a candidate with thirty-five years of age and seven years of experience to work the newly capitalized mines of Australia. The twenty-three-year-old Hoover inflated his credentials, grew a mustache to make himself look older, and acquired a natty tweed outfit suitable for his London interview.
He got the job. (Two years later, Hoover wrote from the hellish heat of Australia's outback, "Take it (back). I haven't worn it yet. Australia, concluded Hoover, was a land of "red dust, black flies, and red heat."
Bob Dole, Great Presidential Wit, Simon & Schuster, 2001
Monday, August 8, 2011
"It would be judicious to act with magnanimity towards a prostrate foe."
Zachary Taylor, 12th President, 1849-1850
Taylor rose to popularity as a successful general in the Mexican-American war. Despite being instructed not to advance by President Polk, Taylor took possession of several territories even though his troops were outnumbered.
As President, on July 4, 1850, Taylor attended a ceremony for the laying of the cornerstone of the Washington Monument, sitting for hours in the hot sun. Afterward he drank large amounts of ice water and then ate cherries with iced milk. That night he suffered what doctors described as a cholera attack and died 5 days later.
Zachary Taylor, 12th President, 1849-1850
Taylor rose to popularity as a successful general in the Mexican-American war. Despite being instructed not to advance by President Polk, Taylor took possession of several territories even though his troops were outnumbered.
As President, on July 4, 1850, Taylor attended a ceremony for the laying of the cornerstone of the Washington Monument, sitting for hours in the hot sun. Afterward he drank large amounts of ice water and then ate cherries with iced milk. That night he suffered what doctors described as a cholera attack and died 5 days later.
Sunday, August 7, 2011
Give 'em hell, Harry!
"I never gave anybody hell! I just told them the truth and they thought it was hell."
Harry S. Truman, 33rd President, 1945-1953
Truman faced major obstacles in the 1948 election. Nobody thought he had a chance to win the election as he was only president because he had ascended to the job when Franklin D. Roosevelt had died.
A major component of Truman’s strategy was not directed at his opponent. Although, the phrase “Give’em hell, Harry” became a phrase someone in the audience shouted at every whistle stop and has come to characterize the campaign, Truman employed one of the greatest political strategies in American history, directing most of his attacks at what became known as the “Do-Nothing 80th Congress” and the Republican Party rather than Dewey, the Republican candidate, himself.
Truman tirelessly logged over 21,000 miles on the campaign trail, mainly by train, in what has come to be know as "the whistle Stop Campaign. He worked with the labor unions and the emerging civil rights movements and scored one of the greatest upsets in Presidential history.
Harry S. Truman, 33rd President, 1945-1953
A major component of Truman’s strategy was not directed at his opponent. Although, the phrase “Give’em hell, Harry” became a phrase someone in the audience shouted at every whistle stop and has come to characterize the campaign, Truman employed one of the greatest political strategies in American history, directing most of his attacks at what became known as the “Do-Nothing 80th Congress” and the Republican Party rather than Dewey, the Republican candidate, himself.
Truman tirelessly logged over 21,000 miles on the campaign trail, mainly by train, in what has come to be know as "the whistle Stop Campaign. He worked with the labor unions and the emerging civil rights movements and scored one of the greatest upsets in Presidential history.
Saturday, August 6, 2011
You mean ordinary or plain?
"God must love the common man; He made so many of them"
Abraham Lincoln, 16th president, 1861-1865
This one is hard to pin down.
Let's focus on the word common. It could mean a)ordinary- conforming to the regular order of things. Or b)(I think a better interpretation)-plain- suggesting homely simplicity. ie-plain hard working people.
I vote for B.
Abraham Lincoln, 16th president, 1861-1865
This one is hard to pin down.
Let's focus on the word common. It could mean a)ordinary- conforming to the regular order of things. Or b)(I think a better interpretation)-plain- suggesting homely simplicity. ie-plain hard working people.
I vote for B.
Friday, August 5, 2011
Dave Barry, I'm not...
"We ought not to look back unless it is to derive useful lessons from past errors, and for the purpose of profiting from dear bought experience."
George Washington, 1st President, 1789-1797
OK, folks. I ascertain you don't need to hear my opinions about these Presidents. This ain't about me. The idea here is to gain insight about what they said and how it could to relate to us in our times and circumstances.
So let's change this up. Let's add some context to these quotes. So I'll spend some time here telling from where the quote originated, to whom it was addressed, and the circumstances surrounding it.
This quote was taken from a letter written to John Armstrong on March 26, 1781, near the revolutionary war's end. The fighting had shifted to the southern part of the colonies, around Virginia. The outcome still remained very much in doubt. Washington had not heard from one of his generals for several weeks nor from one of the commanders of the French fleet who had come to the colonies' assistance. Recruiting efforts were bogging down. Washington surely was not anticipating a glorious victory.
But neither was he in despair; he was not questioning the decision to press ahead and learn and adapt. He said, "We ought not to look back unless it is to derive useful lessons from past errors, and for the purpose of profiting from dear-bought experience."
George Washington, 1st President, 1789-1797
OK, folks. I ascertain you don't need to hear my opinions about these Presidents. This ain't about me. The idea here is to gain insight about what they said and how it could to relate to us in our times and circumstances.
So let's change this up. Let's add some context to these quotes. So I'll spend some time here telling from where the quote originated, to whom it was addressed, and the circumstances surrounding it.
This quote was taken from a letter written to John Armstrong on March 26, 1781, near the revolutionary war's end. The fighting had shifted to the southern part of the colonies, around Virginia. The outcome still remained very much in doubt. Washington had not heard from one of his generals for several weeks nor from one of the commanders of the French fleet who had come to the colonies' assistance. Recruiting efforts were bogging down. Washington surely was not anticipating a glorious victory.
But neither was he in despair; he was not questioning the decision to press ahead and learn and adapt. He said, "We ought not to look back unless it is to derive useful lessons from past errors, and for the purpose of profiting from dear-bought experience."
Thursday, August 4, 2011
"If you could kick the person in the pants responsible for most of your trouble, you wouldn't sit for a month."
Theodore Roosevelt, 26th President, 1901-1909
Hello and thanks to all you blogger followers for dropping in.
You know, this quote reminds me of a little story... I once told one of my kids, "Sometimes, it's better to ask forgiveness than to ask permission." The idea was that no matter what you want to do, there will always be somebody who would say, "You shouldn't" or "You can't." If you listen to "them", you probably wouldn't do anything. And it's my belief that it is you will regret more the things you don't do, rather than the things you actually do.
Anyway, "the kid" somehow took that and turned it into, "It's always better to ask for forgiveness than to ask permission." It has turned into a philosophy of life for them and has served pretty well so far. They have gone off to college and visited foreign lands in their young life. When you are young, it is easy-you really don't know what the consequences might be.To continue that philosophy into adulthood will require courage.
What's that got to do with ol' Teddy? What is the good ol' U.S. of A. kicking themselves about? What did they do to get into big budget and debt troubles? or what didn't they do? Did we outsource our wealth away? Did we allow our jobs to be sent away to enhance the stockholders' gains? Did we cut off our nose despite our face? Perhaps.
Do we have to ask permission to turn it around? Do we wait around? Is there sombody out there with a plan? Anyplan. Let's start over and make cheap trinkets and souvenirs that say, "Made in the USA".
Theodore Roosevelt, 26th President, 1901-1909
Hello and thanks to all you blogger followers for dropping in.
You know, this quote reminds me of a little story... I once told one of my kids, "Sometimes, it's better to ask forgiveness than to ask permission." The idea was that no matter what you want to do, there will always be somebody who would say, "You shouldn't" or "You can't." If you listen to "them", you probably wouldn't do anything. And it's my belief that it is you will regret more the things you don't do, rather than the things you actually do.
Anyway, "the kid" somehow took that and turned it into, "It's always better to ask for forgiveness than to ask permission." It has turned into a philosophy of life for them and has served pretty well so far. They have gone off to college and visited foreign lands in their young life. When you are young, it is easy-you really don't know what the consequences might be.To continue that philosophy into adulthood will require courage.
What's that got to do with ol' Teddy? What is the good ol' U.S. of A. kicking themselves about? What did they do to get into big budget and debt troubles? or what didn't they do? Did we outsource our wealth away? Did we allow our jobs to be sent away to enhance the stockholders' gains? Did we cut off our nose despite our face? Perhaps.
Do we have to ask permission to turn it around? Do we wait around? Is there sombody out there with a plan? Anyplan. Let's start over and make cheap trinkets and souvenirs that say, "Made in the USA".
It's your birthday
There is not a liberal America and a conservative America. Thers's not a black America and a white America and latino America and asian America- there's the United States of America.
Barack Obama, Born this day in 1961, 44th President, 2009-
So let's get to work...
Barack Obama, Born this day in 1961, 44th President, 2009-
So let's get to work...
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
The nine most terrifying words...
"The nine most terrifying words in the English language are, "I'm from the government and I'm here to help.", Ronald Reagan, 40th President, 1981-1989. Spoken at his press conference August 8, 1986, at the Hyatt Regency Hotel, Chicago, Illinois.
"The preamble to the U.S. constitution states:
"We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.
The Constitution can be and is broadly interpreted: We the people (not an institution or corporation), in order to form a more perfect Union, establish (and maintain) Justice, insure domestic Tranquility (the Patriot Act, the FBI, police protection- for the people or the state?), provide for the common defense (the best defense is a good offense?), promote the general Welfare (state?)(Corporate/financial institutional welfare?), and secure the blessings(and responsibilities)to ourselves and our Posterity(education?), do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.
"That's pretty wide open. How do we the people implement?
Generally Reagan believed less government is better. However, in this instance, the remark is a preface to his announcement of aid for farmers in regards to price support loans to make up for a drop in wheat and grain prices, helping with grain exports, and announcing a drought assistance task force. "... A great many of the current problems on the
farm were caused by government-imposed embargoes and inflation, not to mention government's
long history of conflicting and haphazard policies. Our ultimate goal, of course, is economic
independence for agriculture, and through steps like the tax reform bill, we seek to return
farming to real farmers. But until we make that transition, the Government must act
compassionately and responsibly. In order to see farmers through these tough times, our
administration has committed record amounts of assistance, spending more in this year alone
than any previous administration spent during its entire tenure. No area of the budget, including
defense, has grown as fast as our support for agriculture. The message in all this is very simple:
America's farmers should know that our commitment to helping them is unshakable. And as long
as I am in Washington, their concerns are going to be heard and acted upon. http://www.reaganfoundation.org/pdf/SQP081286.pdf
Monday, August 1, 2011
If You can't stand the heat...
"If you can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen!" Harry S. Truman, 33rd President 1945-1953
The good ones relish the battle. They can take the back and forth discussion and debate without internalizing the disagreement or villianizing "the other guy."
Kind of like Wily Coyote and the sheepdog in the Looney Toons episodes... "Good night, Barack." "Good night, John." "See you tomorrow."
The good ones relish the battle. They can take the back and forth discussion and debate without internalizing the disagreement or villianizing "the other guy."
Kind of like Wily Coyote and the sheepdog in the Looney Toons episodes... "Good night, Barack." "Good night, John." "See you tomorrow."
Lighten up, Francis.
August 1, 2011
"In my many years, I have come to the conclusion that one useless man is a shame, two is a law firm, and three or more is a congress." John Adams, 2nd President,1797-1801.
Quotation attributed to Adams. Actually a line from the musical, "1776".
Adams spent eight years as George Washington's vice-president where he primarily ran the sessions of Congress. When he did become President, himself, he clashed often with Congress and his vice-president, Thomas Jefferson. With politics and intrigue, Jefferson out maneuvered Adams to become President after Adams had only served one term. So Congress and the president aren't getting along. Nothing new there. As Ronald Reagan once said when introducing Bob Hope, "Bob loves golf. The other day he asked me, 'What's your handicap?' and I said , 'Congress.'"
We know the economy is tough and there are great battles ahead and obstacles still to overcome. Not only that but it is August and the temperature is rising literally and figuratively.
We'll have a quote a day during August to try to cool things down and lighten the mood (a little) and still get the job done.
"In my many years, I have come to the conclusion that one useless man is a shame, two is a law firm, and three or more is a congress." John Adams, 2nd President,1797-1801.
Quotation attributed to Adams. Actually a line from the musical, "1776".
Adams spent eight years as George Washington's vice-president where he primarily ran the sessions of Congress. When he did become President, himself, he clashed often with Congress and his vice-president, Thomas Jefferson. With politics and intrigue, Jefferson out maneuvered Adams to become President after Adams had only served one term. So Congress and the president aren't getting along. Nothing new there. As Ronald Reagan once said when introducing Bob Hope, "Bob loves golf. The other day he asked me, 'What's your handicap?' and I said , 'Congress.'"
We know the economy is tough and there are great battles ahead and obstacles still to overcome. Not only that but it is August and the temperature is rising literally and figuratively.
We'll have a quote a day during August to try to cool things down and lighten the mood (a little) and still get the job done.
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