My Word

Does God have a place in the platform of a political party? It depends upon whom you ask. On day two of the Democratic National Convention, three attempts were made to include God in the Democratic Party Platform. San Antonio Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa asked for delegates to ratify the proposal by voice vote and an awkward moment ensued when the first two votes deadlocked.  The third vote drew even louder opposition, yet the Chair gaveled the proposed change into place, which drew loud boos. Who knew God would be so controversial at the convention?

Intimidation can be a powerful weapon. Tyrants and terrorists have long employed intimidation into their arsenal to not only keep subjects and opponents in line but to silence even the smallest hint of resistance.

“If we’re going to have education in Shelby County, we’re going to have to pay for it with Shelby County money.” That quote by a school board member came during a discussion of 2012/2013 finances and the continued cuts being experienced on the state and federal levels. The board members know a trend exists that revenue from outside sources decreases. They know tough decisions must be made in these tough economic times. They know our students deserve it.

Twenty years ago, Aug. 7, 2012, we said a final goodbye to our mother, Mrs. Jesse L. Puckett. That is the name she preferred. She was never Ella Puckett. For the last 12 years of her life, she really didn’t know who she was. I had written a column in 1989 to mark Mother’s Day.. a column I thought was fitting even today for all those other families dealing with Alzheimer’s.

She is remembered by most for being prissy, smelling like Tabu, always wearing high heels, enjoying the latest fashions from Lawson’s and hunting for bargains at A&P.