Conservative Girl With a Voice

9/11/2001: ALWAYS REMEMBER, and NEVER FORGET!!!

2012-09-11T08:59:00.001-07:00

The horrific events that transpired on September 11, 2001, have forever changed the face of America. Like many of you, I awoke on September 11th thinking about everything I had to accomplish that day. As a 20-year-old college student, I was busy with the tasks at hand. The papers, homework and journalism writing assignments were going to keep me very busy on this Tuesday morning. I rolled out of bed at around 6 a.m. and put on my workout clothes, thinking to myself that the sooner I got done working out, the sooner I could get the other items crossed off my check-off list. Little did I know how much my life would change--how much America would change in a matter of minutes. As I sat on the bed and put on my running shoes, I turned on the Today Show and I immediately stopped what I was doing because of what I was witnessing on the screen in front of me. The normally clear, crystal blue New York skyline was smoky, hazy and just plain eerie. I immediately listened as Matt and Katie reported what was going on. At first it was reported that a small commuter plane had crashed into one of the World Trade Center towers. After hearing this, I thought to myself: "oh, okay some pilot either ran out of gas or had a mechanical failure, hopefully everything will be okay." After hearing this, I went for a quick run.

When I got home, I turned the television back on assuming that whatever had transpired before I left had been figured out and that everything would be all right. Instead, what I saw on television really scared me. It was being reported that it wasn't a commuter plane after all, but a large plane. People were shown running down the street, dazed and confused in their business attire. I will never forget the horrific looks of those poor people's faces. These were successful, hard-working Americans who now seemed to be fleeing to safety. These traders, executives, secretaries, maintenance workers and many more business professionals became a blur under the smokey haze and ash that covered everything in sight. Immediately I thought, is this a terrorist attack? Being the journalism student I was, I didn't want to jump to conclusions, and I hoped I was wrong, but everything I was watching seemed to be pointing in that direction.

Unfortunately all my premonitions were indeed true, as I saw an object hit the other tower. When people talk about reality television, usually the actions are staged, but this was true a reality show, a frightening series of events that I could not believe were really happening. I kept hoping that everything I was seeing unfold was just a bad dream. I wanted to put my flannel pj's back on and climb back into bed and cuddle up thinking that when I awoke everything would be normal again-- everything would be the same. Yet, this WAS really happening; this WAS reality. Right them and there, I knew America had been attacked. How could this happen to America? I asked myself. Now, I can see one fluke accident, but the second plane hitting the other tower was just a little too coincidental. After the second tower was hit, everything just happened so fast that it is hard to put it all in chronological order because I was just trying to wrapped my head around how someone could attack America, the land of the free, the home of the brave. Before this day, I had always felt safe and secure. I never worried about going to amusement parks or sporting events. The only thing that scared me when I had to fly was my fear of heights, but that didn't stop me from flying. After watching the event unfold before my eyes, the care-free America I had once known seemed an all too distant memory.

The catastrophic events of September 11, 2001, not only changed America as we knew her, but also us as individuals. Before the tragic events of 9/11, I took for granted my family and friends. I took for granted the little things that I now look at with intense pride. While I have always loved America and took pride in being an American, September 11th made me realize how proud I was to be an American, and I wanted to show this pride everywhere I went. From the ashes, people came to the aide of others. Strangers helping strangers, putting their lives on the line to protect their fellow man and fellow woman. Amid the tears, heartache and screams of anger came a bright beacon of light, and amid the ashes, people joined together and united as one. I was so proud of our brave men and women in uniform who risked their lives as they rushed into those burning buildings, knowing that they may not make it out alive. I was so proud of the normal Americans too. The employees who refused to evacuate the buildings of the World Trade Center, opting instead to stay inside and go back up those floors to try to get others out. Those brave men and women at the Pentagon who came together to bring out the burned and wounded. Whatever you may think of Donald Rumsfeld, he will forever be a hero for rushing in to help and rescue others. Who could forget the brave men and women of Flight 93? As I write this, I have tears in my eyes, as I think of the sacrifice those amazing individuals made in protecting those on the ground. I cannot begin to imagine what they must have gone through. But in true American form and with tremendous composer, they did what few would do.

You see, fellow readers, while the events of September 11th will forever be hard to comprehend and digest, this day brought out the best in our fellow man. Men, women and children of all races and religions came together for a common purpose, a common goal of helping those in need. I'll never forget when our elected officials stood together, hand in hand and sang God Bless America with more emotion than I had ever seen from from those whom we elect to serve. After a tumultuous election, all Americans, regardless of party, stood together behind President George W. Bush as he comforted and hugged the hurting and the suffering. Goodness, how the times have changed. I have to ask, "What the hell happened?" "What happened to us?" We came together after an event of tragic proportions only to become divided once more. While it is clear President Obama and Mitt Romney have two very different visions for America this election year, it is vital we realize that we are Americans first before we are Republicans or Democrats or Independents.

There are many individuals who want us to forget about what happened on 9/11-- But, readers, whatever you do, it is important that you NEVER FORGET! NEVER FORGET the people who risked their lives to save their fellow man! NEVER FORGET the way America came together! NEVER FORGET the sacrifices so many men and women in uniform are making for us as they risk their lives day in and day out just so we never have to relive the tragic events that happened on that day. NEVER FORGET what happened on 9/11 and the way the nation came together on 9/12 because now more than ever, we NEED to be reminded that America is the land of freedom and opportunity, the land of the brave. NEVER FORGET the 2,974 innocent individuals who lost their lives.

Take some time today to reflect on your own life and what 9/11 means to you. Say a prayer for the families of the victims of the attacks, for our soldiers and for the families of the fallen men and women who died protecting us. And tomorrow on 9/12, don't forget! It is important to WAKE UP, to STAND UP, and to SPEAK UP because we love our country and are worried about the direction we are headed. Don't be afraid, don't listen to the critics! In returning to the way in which we behaved and acted on 9/12/2001, there is no doubting the power and freedom we have when we stand on the side of our founding fathers, our Constitution and our Bill of Rights. When we stand together, there is no way they can divide us; thus, the famous line goes: "UNITED WE STAND, DIVIDED WE FALL!"

(Follow me on Twitter @RachelleFriberg.)

My Exclusive Interview with Olympic Gold Medalist Shawn Johnson

2012-07-13T14:45:00.042-07:00

This morning, I had the opportunity to speak with Olympic Gold Medalist Shawn Johnson about her new book Winning Balance. As I spoke with her, I could not help but think that this is a young woman who has accomplished so many great things and has such a great outlook on life. Her authenticity is unavoidable, and the passion she has for living a life full of purpose is apparent when she speaks. At the young age of 20, Shawn has proved that with hard work and determination, you can reach your dreams. I want to thank Shawn for taking the time to speak with me, and I encourage you all to read her book, which can be purchased by clicking here. I guarantee you will be left feeling inspired!

First off, I want to say how inspiring you are and how much of a role model you are to people of all ages. What inspired you to decide to write a book based upon your experiences and what you have learned so far?

Going through the whole writing a book process, I really wanted to do it because my story has been covered so many times by everybody else and their perspectives. I really wanted to give out my more vulnerable side. I kept journals and diaries, and I just thought it was a great opportunity to connect to people on a more human level than an Olympic platform where people are like 'Oh she's just a machine.'

What do you hope people come away learning about Shawn Johnson after reading your story?

Hopefully, they see that it's not as easy as people portrayed it to be, and that it wasn't just gifted to me, and I wasn't born into it. I worked for it, and I had ups and downs and normal trials and triumphs like everybody else. Hopefully, it inspires them to think, 'well, she is like me; maybe I can do it too.'

As a fellow Christian, I know how important faith is. Faith is a big part of your life and you talk about it in your book. How has faith and your walk with Christ helped you through your times of struggle and hardship?

I'd say my faith has really gotten me through everything, it's given a reason to it. Going through gymnastics and the big movement like the Olympics, I feel like people put too much meaning into the games instead of finding a bigger meaning outside of it, and my faith is always there, it's my foundation and what I fell back on. When things didn't go my way or I went through hard times, everything happened for a reason, and for some reason, it was supposed to happen that way.

Your family seems great. I love the Bounty commercial featuring you and your mom; it’s super cute! Can you talk a little about your parents and how much their support has meant to you over the years?

My family is the best. They've been there since day one. They've encouraged me and supported me in everything that I've done. From coming home on a bad day and having my dad make me french toast at 10 o'clock at night to try to help me feel better to having my mom in hearing someone saying a bad critique and being like 'Oh, I want to go talk to them right now.' Just having them there and supporting meant the world to me.

As an American who was once ranked the #1 gymnast in the world, what does it mean to you to know you were one of a select few to represent your country in the Olympic games?

It feels great to know I've worn my country's colors and made them proud. There's no greater feeling. I feel like all the thousands of hours of hard work and repetition really paid off and it's a great thing to have.

It is being reported that you are going to be traveling to London to show support for the USA Gymnastic Team. Looking back at your own experiences, emotions and the pressures to perform, can you give me a little insight as to what the members of our Olympic team are feeling right now given the close proximity of games?

Yeah. Well, right now they are elated because they're dream has come true. They're on the team and they're getting ready to head over, but they're very nervous. They've got so much pressure on them, being so young, 16, 17 years old and knowing your country is expecting you to bring home a medal is a lot of pressure to handle, but they are working hard and should be leaving for London soon and just getting ready. They're putting hour upon hour of hard work into it right now.

Not only are you an Olympic Gold Medalist, but you are a Dancing with the Stars champion as well. Your partner was Mark Ballas who was also paired up with Bristol Palin in season 11. I have interviewed Bristol on a couple occasions, and she told me how much she enjoyed being on the show and dancing alongside Mark. What was your favorite part about being on the show? As a competitor, was it fun to compete against other stars?

I loved Dancing, I loved the competition and rivalry of it, but honestly, in my season, we were so close. We were all like family, and we just wanted to have fun. I'd say the best part was that-- just making new friends and having a blast doing something we were all uncomfortable with.

Although you have led an amazing life and experienced so many great opportunities, you are still a typical girl who, like others, admits to being a tomboy, nerd and girly girl all wrapped into one. How do you find the necessary balance between your social life and public life?

It's hard, and I think it's getting harder and harder with the attention of the Olympics right now, but I've had the same group of friends that I've had since kindergarten, and they understand and kind of work around it, and we've learned to know what works and what doesn't. They're always there to cheer me up and travel with me and just have fun being silly.

You have such a large following and fan base. What does it mean to you when a little girl or boy comes up to you to request your autograph or a young gymnast tells you she wants to be just like you when she grows up?

It's scary, kind of, now that I have that responsibility, but I like it, you know? I've worked hard for that title and that honor, and I feel like, unfortunately, there are so many bad role models out there that maybe I can be a good one.

Finally, when all the autographs are signed and all the press is done for the day, what is your favorite thing to do to relax or just have fun?

Considering I am always on the go, I love nothing more than coming home and just curling up on the couch and watching a movie... best way to end the day.

Shawn, I couldn't agree more! My personal favorite? The Notebook

Check out this YouTube video via Tynsdale House Publishers, which gives you a sneak peak inside Shawn's book from Shawn herself:

Follow Shawn on Twitter @ShawnJohnson

Follow me on Twitter @RachelleFriberg

My Upcoming Exclusive Interview with Olympic Gold Medalist and Dancing with the Stars Champ Shawn Johnson

2012-07-11T19:46:00.009-07:00

Hi, everybody!!! First off, I want to apologize for not writing as regularly as I used too. WOW, it has been a while since I have written a post, but I promise that is about to change. While you all know politics is one of my passions, I also love pop culture and my part-time work as an independent pop culture and media expert for a variety of media outlets. This blog has allowed me to meet and interview so many amazing, inspiring people, and I have enjoyed sharing each and every opportunity I have had the honor to experience with you.

With this said, I am excited to announce my latest opportunity. I have scored an exclusive interview with Olympic Gold Medalist and Dancing With the Stars Champion Shawn Johnson. Shawn has a new book out entitled Winning Balance in which she discusses everything from her amazing Olympic career, to love and faith. I am excited at the prospect of speaking with her this week about it. At the young age of 20, Shawn is a not only a great role model for young people, but a woman who is not afraid to stay true to herself and hold on to her faith. I look forward to speaking with her about this and more!!!

Stay tuned for my exclusive interview with her; I cannot wait to share it with you...

Andrew Breitbart: Fearless Man with a Heart of Gold

2012-03-01T10:27:00.009-08:00

America has lost a profound, conservative voice today. Andrew Breitbart was a man unafraid to speak out in the name of conservatism, unafraid to take a stand when the liberal, mainstream media misstepped (a daily occurrence), and unafraid to defend those who needed defending the most. Yes, the conservative movement has lost a little piece of themselves today. I'll never forget the first time I had heard of Andrew Breitbart. It was four years ago. I had just started to become politically active and "Conservative Girl with a Voice" was just taking off when I started to see this guy everywhere on the news and on the Internet. It was then that a spark ignited inside of me. Here was a guy who was not afraid to call out the media when everyone else seemed to be sitting idly by on sidelines, quietly. I quickly came to realize this was who Andrew Breitbart really was. I remained amazed at how he managed to keep his cool when nasty progressives attacked him and attempted to destroy him. I don't think they got the memo that this was The Andrew Breitbart, a man who no one could take down.

I will never forget how amazingly cool it felt to learn that he knew about me and my blog shortly after I started writing. I almost fainted when he started following me on Twitter. For a guy of that caliber to take the time to read a new blog and follow the work of a new blogger just learning the ropes meant the world to me and other young, conservative writers like me, but that is who Andrew Breitbart was. I will never forget him or the lessons I learned from him. As someone tweeted this morning, "It is up to us. We are ALL Andrew Breitbart's now." How poignant and how so very true. The tears, shock and sadness will eventually fade away, little by little, but Andrew Breitbart, the activist and man will not. He will ALWAYS be right beside us, guiding us down the path to a better, freer, stronger America. Perhaps Sean Hannity put it best in a tweet he tweeted me this morning: "We can all learn from his fearlessness." Sean, yes we can. Rest in peace, Andrew. I will never forget you, your message and the way in which you ignited a spark inside of me to carry on and fight the good fight. Well done, Andrew, well done!!!

To Andrew's family and friends: My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this very difficult time.

Follow me on Twitter @RachelleFriberg

Putting the Swagger Back into the Step of American Politics: My Choice for 2012

2011-11-23T15:07:00.000-08:00

The election of 2008 forever changed the way I view politics. When Sarah Palin was introduced to the world, I immediately identified with her in so many ways. When she walked across that stage that early, fall morning in Ohio, in those chic red high heels, she immediately became a role model to me and so many other young women across the country. I remember thinking that it finally felt "cool" to be a Republican. Shortly thereafter, I started this blog at the urging of my friend, Lisa Grass, whom I am honored to know and call a friend. I will never forget Lisa telling me that through this blog, I could use my support for Sarah as a platform to spread her conservative message in combination with my joy for journalism and writing. Now, three years later, I cannot believe the people I have met and the many opportunities God has blessed me with. I will forever be grateful to Sarah Palin for everything she has done and will continue to do for our great country. She will forever have my full support.

Upon hearing the news that Sarah Palin would not be running for president, I was saddened, but respected her decision, for I knew that she had prayed about it and given it a lot of thought and made the decision that was best for her and her family. I have been so blessed to have met Sarah both in person and to have gotten a personal phone call from her earlier this year, thanking me for my support and for all I do for the conservative movement. This is the real Sarah Palin. I have gotten to know many people close to Sarah since 2008, including her parents Chuck and Sally who, upon learning my sister, friends and I were in Wasilla, Alaska, a couple summers ago, invited us to their home on a couple of occasions. I also had the opportunity to interview Bristol Palin twice, and what a sweetheart she is. It is so true what they say about Alaskans. They are the most generous, amazing people, and I am blessed to have become friends with so many of them. I cannot wait to return to Alaska this summer.

With Sarah's decision clear, I joined many other individuals who were on the journey to find a candidate to support in 2012. It did not take me long at all to find a candidate whom I am extremely honored to support. I am backing a candidate who, like Sarah Palin, is unafraid to step on a few toes in the name of standing up and speaking out the truth. This candidate has served our country well. As the son of World War II veteran and Air Force veteran himself, Governor Rick Perry knows first hand what our military men and women go through on a daily basis to keep us free. Of all of the candidates in the running, Governor Perry is the only candidate I have full faith in knowing he will be able to take that 3a.m. phone call and know how to appropriately respond. I have always been a fan of reformers, and I admire the way in which Governor Perry has governed. As his most recent advertisement states, he is a "doer," and that is exactly the kind if no-nonsense leadership we need. As a young woman, I look to the future, knowing that I want a president who will protect America and keep my family and me safe. Governor Perry IS this individual. As a social and fiscal conservative, Perry has illustrated that he is a true leader whom I am proud to support and formally throw my endorsement behind today on eve of Thanksgiving, a day in which I am thankful for a man of his caliber and steadfast leadership. Thank you, Governor Perry. This California girl is proud to support you; now, go get 'em!!!

Make sure to watch this inspiring video that Governor Perry posted on YouTube earlier today. I hope you and your family have a very Happy Thanksgiving!!!

(Follow me on Twitter @RachelleFriberg.)

Thank You, Dad!!!

2011-06-18T23:06:00.000-07:00

On this very special Fathers Day, I just wanted to write a brief post about how important fathers are to our lives. Like many of my readers out there, I have been blessed with a very special father. Not only did dad teach me the little things like fishing when I could barely walk, tying my shoes, riding my bike and atv, but he also taught me many of the most important lessons in life. One of the most important of these being nothing ever comes without hard work and determination. My father is one of the hardest working men I know. Not only is he a teacher at La Jolla High School here in San Diego, but he also helps my brother with his bounce house business on weekends. Through all of this, he always finds the time to be there for my sister, brother and I whenever we need him and for that, I am truly blessed.

My father is like many other fathers out there who balance work and family life. Being a father can be hard at times, especially in this day in age. By just by being an active father, children are taught valuable life long lessons that will guide them as they learn and grow. Being a father is all about quality time. Some of the best fathers I know are busy, busy guys, but they always find a way to spend quality time with their kids. Time is perhaps the most important gift a child will ever receive. Yes, tangible gifts can be great, but when looking back, it is the time spent with my dad that I remember most.

The memories dad has made with me and my siblings, as crazy as they may be, I wouldn't trade for any amount of money in the world; they are truly priceless! The time spent going over those pesky spelling words in grade school, fishing at the cabin, camping, hiking, riding quads and dirt bikes, attending sporting events, throwing the ball around in the backyard, as well as countless other events have shaped me into the woman I am today. So from the bottom of my heart, I wish all my readers a happy Fathers Day!!! Let us remember to not just thank and show our fathers how much they mean to us today, but everyday!!! You fathers rock!!!

(Follow me on Twitter @RachelleFriberg.)

Adrienne Ross' Exclusive Interview with a Former Palin Staffer who Calls Out Frank Bailey's Lies

2011-05-26T19:28:00.000-07:00

My friend, and Motivation Truth blog founder, Adrienne Ross just posted an exclusive interview with former Sarah Palin staffer Tara Jollie. This interview is a must read as Ms. Jollie calls out Frank Bailey and the many lies he tells throughout his tabloid-filled book. Just a note to Frank Bailey: If you're looking for a job, try the National Enquirer. I'm sure you would finally be among your own.

Please click here to read the facts from the mouth of Ms. Jollie- a brave woman and a true patriot.

(Follow me on Twitter @RachelleFriberg.)

Gifts My Mother Gave to Me

2011-05-07T21:24:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day to all the moms out there. I love my mom. If that old notion is true that a girl's mom is her best friend, then my mom is definitely mine. For my entire life, my mom has always put us kids first, making sure that we were always loved and provided for. While my dad is awesome, and I love him to death, there is just something special about a girl's relationship with her mother. There are so many "girl moments" I can recall having with my mom while growing up. I can recall a ton of funny moments when we could not stop laughing and the difficult moments too when all I wanted to do was be held and cry on her shoulder. I know I am lucky when I can truly say that my mom has ALWAYS been there for this Conservative Girl with a Voice.

I definitely know there were times when my mom probably wanted to pull all of her hair out over the antics of my sister, brother and me, but she never quit believing in us. She has always taught me to dream big and set high goals for myself. I can still remember the little things she did like her helping to run the PTA, always being there to take me and pick me up from school and being the team mom for my softball teams. I will always remember the countless times my friends would comment on how "cool" my mom was and how much fun they had whenever they came over to my house. My mom has always been the perfect hostess, and she has taught me the importance of family, charity and putting others first. She has been there through think and thin- from consoling me in middle school over my "boy troubles" to taking me in her arms and telling me how proud she was of me even after I screwed up that pesky puzzle during my appearance on Wheel of Fortune last year. I am so blessed and thankful God gave me a mom who has never given up on me even during the times when I wanted to give up on myself.

I had a great childhood, full of so many ups, and mom made that possible. My mom is the individual who is responsible for the personal relationship I have with Jesus Christ. I will never forget sitting on the swing set- mom was on the swing beside me- when I was about five years old and accepting Jesus into my heart. I will forever be thankful to her and dad for bringing my brother, sister and I up in a loving, Christian home. My mom has taught me so much, and I cannot wait to have kids, so I can teach them the same valuable, life-long lessons she has taught me. One of the best lessons my mom has taught me is to always believe in myself and know that I can achieve whatever I set my mind to- no matter how big the goal. This whole "world is my oyster" philosophy sticks with me to this day. And with that, I will forever be grateful that I have a mom who has sacrificed so much for me. And for that I say, "Thanks mom! I LOVE YOU!!!"

(Follow me on Twitter @RachelleFriberg.)

Trig Palin: God's Precious Gift

2011-04-22T23:06:00.000-07:00

Since when did it become funny to call someone "retarded"? By now, I am sure most of you are aware of the vicious actions made my a certain liberal, scum-filled website. Recently, this website had the audacity to refer to Sarah Palin's youngest son, Trig, as "retarded." When I first read this article and the comments that followed it, I was both appalled and saddened. My sadness soon turned to anger when I thought about the many people I am blessed to know with down syndrome and special needs. As someone who works with special needs students on a daily basis, I can tell you that individuals with special needs are the most kind-hearted, compassionate individuals you will ever have the chance to meet, and I learn valuable lessons from them daily. Not only are people with special needs kind and compassionate, but they are individuals too, and they deserve to be treated with dignity and respect.

One of the reasons I admire Sarah Palin so much is because she chose life for her sweet baby boy. In giving sweet Trig life, Sarah demonstrated her belief in life and her belief that every life has a purpose. I will never forget when my family sent little Trig an embroidered jacket shortly after the 2008 campaign. A couple weeks after sending Trig the gift, I got a note from Sarah thanking my family and I for the gift, telling us how much it meant to them and Trig. This is the kind of woman Sarah Palin is. She is the kind of woman who puts her family and God above all else. Trig is the pride and joy of both her and Todd's lives. This little boy deserves the same respect that any other child receives. It is time that people realize that individuals with special needs are humans too! To those who enjoy making fun of a child with special needs I say "Shame on you!" And to precious Trig and his family, I say "Thank you for showing me and the rest of the world just how amazing unconditional love can be."

I was forwarded an article (via Alaskans for Palin) written by my friend, Tracey Porreca, that I have decided to share with you below. I hope you find it as heartwarming and touching as I did. As we approach Easter this coming Sunday, let us remember the sacrifice Jesus made for us and the everlasting gift he bestowed upon us:

Alaska's Republican National Committeewoman Addresses Attacks Against Trig Palin

I was approached today by Debbie Joslin, Republican National Committeewoman for the State of Alaska, and friend of mine. She is also a friend of Sarah Palin and has known her for a long time. We started discussing the recent "Wonkette" article (see here)and Debbie mentioned she was writing an article to address it. I offered to share it with our readers and she accepted. Debbie has a lot of personal experience with this subject, as you will read. I'm so pleased to share this with all our readers. Thank you, Debbie, for this heartfelt article.

Please click here to read Debbie's inspiring words of wisdom.

(Follow me on Twitter @RachelleFriberg.)

UPDATE: Geraldine Ferraro: A Tribute

2011-03-26T10:19:00.001-07:00

As many of you have heard, Geraldine Ferraro passed away this morning at the age of 75 from blood cancer. As a young woman, I have always admired Mrs. Ferraro because she did so much for women and helped to shatter a glass ceiling that at one time seemed unbreakable. Unlike many other Democrats, Mrs. Ferraro was unafraid to stand up and speak out against her own party, which made me respect her even more. I will never forget watching her on Fox News shortly after Sarah Palin was announced as John McCain's running mate. As a woman, she was so proud at the possibility of a woman holding the second-highest office in the land. Although she and Sarah disagreed on many, many issues, and Ferraro supported President Obama during the 2008 election, she looked past these differences, which speaks to her integrity, wisdom and strength of character.

As a young woman, I always will be grateful for Mrs. Ferraro's service and the sacrifice she made for her country. She forever will be a role model to me for everything she represented. Although she is no longer physically with us, her fight for women and her love of country will live on! Thank you, Geraldine, for everything you did for women like me! Thank you for defending women, regardless of party, and for never foundering in your mission for the advancement of women in politics and beyond! Thank you for your sacrifice and your steadfast, unwavering love for America!!! You will forever be missed!!!

I leave you with one of my favorite television clips of Geraldine Ferraro and Sarah Palin together for the first time on Fox News. Click here to watch.

UPDATE: Make sure to click here to visit The Other McCain and read more about Sarah Palin's tribute to Geraldine Ferraro.

(Follow me on Twitter @RachelleFriberg.)

Bill Maher Continues to Degrade Conservative Women and NOW Remains SILENT!!!

2011-03-22T10:53:00.000-07:00

UPDATE: Yesterday afternoon, NOW issued what appears to be an apology, well sort of if you can even call it that... Read it here.

Bill Maher has long been known for making outlandish, ridiculous comments; it's just what he does. Although I disagree with most of most of what Maher says, I am a strong believer in a person's right to the First Amendment. Freedom of speech is the cornerstone of what makes American the great country it is. While I believe Maher has a right to express himself freely, it is clear that he crossed the line when he made the following sexist, disgusting comment on his HBO show Friday night:

"Did you hear this – Sarah Palin finally heard what happened in Japan and she’s demanding that we invade ‘Tsunami,’” Maher said. “I mean she said, ‘These ‘Tsunamians’ will not get away with this.’ Oh speaking of dumb tw**s, did you..."

As a woman, I am deeply offended by his comment. In making such a comment, Maher is showing his true light as a sexist jerk. I'm sorry, but I do not find comments like this to be at all funny. Perhaps the biggest problem lies with the fact that The National Organization for Women (NOW) who once again is remaining silent when a conservative woman is degraded on national television. This says a lot about an organization that claims to be the primary defender of women when, in reality, they basically pick and choose whom to defend and whom to ignore.

When did it become so difficult to defend someone? If the leaders of NOW are going to pick and choose who they defend, then, they mine as well put a huge disclaimer on their website stating that they will only be defending women who believe in a liberal agenda because if you are a pro-life, conservative woman like myself, Sarah Palin or Michelle Bachmann, they do not give a damn.

Although I am a conservative Republican woman, I do not see party when one of my own is attacked. Regular readers of my blog know that I am not afraid to defend women on both sides of the political spectrum. It is clear women in politics are treated more harshly than their male counterparts. While questioning and criticizing someone based upon political beliefs is expected and welcomed, degrading someone and using sexual innuendos is disgusting. I get it, you get it, but apparently NOW does not, and I have a feeling that they never will. Perhaps NOW would be better off if it changed the name of its organization to National Organization for Liberal Women because that is the only spectrum of society it seems to represent.

Follow me on Twitter @RachelleFriberg.)

The Problem with David Frum

2011-03-22T07:46:00.000-07:00

Palin's trip to Israel was well received by the majority of Israel and a necessary trip for those considering a run for president. Many individuals are praising Palin for visiting one of the United States' most trusted friend and ally. Conservative Radio Host Mark Levin praised Palin for her visit to Israel. In his most recent note posted on Facebook, Levin commends Palin and takes aim at liberal Republican Commentator David Frum, describing him as a "disgraceful, petty, Palin-obsessed Washington-insider" and criticizing him for his recent disappointment in the fact that Palin booked her trip through a Christian tour group and did not take the Washington insider route and use the Republican Jewish Coalition (RJC) to book her trip.

Frum really does not get it, and Levin is right to call him out for his lame attempt to criticize the former Alaska governor and vice presidential candidate just because she did not go conventional route. Who cares which group Palin booked her tour through? It is clear that Frum is once again barking up the wrong tree in his awful attempt to pretend he does not care what Palin does or says, when it is clear he is obsessed with all things @SarahPalinUSA. It is not as if he paid for her trip to Israel. Then again, with his disapproval of her not picking the RJC, is he offering to pay for her next trip? After all, Palin said she cannot wait to return to the holy land. But I am not holding my breath that Frum would fork up much of anything other than ridiculous criticism. Levin sheds light on Frum's obsession with Palin picking a Christian tour group over the RJC:

But that's not good enough for Frum. According to him, she didn't use the RJC, of which he is a Board member, to handle the event. As an American, Jew, and conservative, I consider Frum an embarrassment. With rising anti-Semitism throughout the world and support for Israel weakening in the West, including among young people in the United States, he should be praising her visit and her commitment to Israel. He should encourage more such trips and meetings by more opinion-makers and politicians, regardless of the group that handles these events. Instead, Frum focuses on nonsense. This is why Frum is neither taken seriously nor should be by a growing number of thinking conservatives.

Frum has never hidden his dislike of Palin, but it is his latest comments that are the most surprising considering the fact that Frum is Jewish. Frum is yet another example of those obsessed individuals who say they do not care about what Palin says or does, yet whenever she does say or do something, they have to find something about it to criticize. This, my friends, is the number one symptom of Palin Derangement syndrome. Mr. Frum, if you are serious about wanting to be taken seriously, then, I suggest you find something of high intellectual value to complain about. Until you do, I suggest you refrain from stirring up complete and utter nonsense and looking like a fool in the process! That...is...all.

(Follow me on Twitter @RachelleFriberg.)

Young Sledding Victim NEEDS Your Help!!!

2011-03-09T19:31:00.000-08:00

This past weekend, a beautiful, little Alaskan girl name Shelby did what kids across America look forward to doing during the long, cold winter months: She went sledding. What should have been a fun, carefree event suddenly turned tragic when she was involved in a sledding accident and had to be airlifted to the hospital. Shelby suffered a broken back, loss of feeling in her legs and is recovering following an extensive surgery. This is a strong, brave little girl who has her whole life in front of her, and God sparred her life for a purpose. Her surviving this accident is indeed a miracle and is living proof that both God and miracles do exist. You just have to believe and hold steadfast to your faith!!!

Please pray for Shelby, her parents (Mitch and Jessica) and the rest of her family during this time. They are amazing individuals, and I am proud and honored to call them friends!!! For those of you who do not know Jessica, she is Sarah Palin's fabulously talented hair dresser, phenomenal entrepreneur and friend of this blog. I have a feeling Shelby gets her fighting spirit from her mama bear.

Friends of Shelby is an official Facebook page that has been set up as a way for individuals to voice their support and send kind words to Shelby as she begins, what will be, a long, slow recovery process. There is also a box on this page that individuals can click to donate to cover the expensive medical bills. Any little bit helps. Please spread the word and make sure to visit this page today. Let's help Shelby!!!

Thanks so much and God bless!!!

(Follow me on Twitter @RachelleFriberg.)

ALERT: Columnist Michelle Malkin's Cousin MISSING!!!

2011-03-07T07:44:00.000-08:00

I just learned via Twitter that political columnist and Contributor Michelle Malkin's cousin, Marizela Perez, has been missing since this past Saturday afternoon. (See her photo, courtesy of Michelle Malkin, to the right.) Marizela is a beautiful young woman who attends the University of Washington. She was last seen in the Rainier Beach area sometime between 12 and 12:30p.m. Saturday.

Individuals living in Seattle and on the North West: Please keep on the look out for Marizela, and let's help bring her home to her family.

Via Michelle's website:

She is a University of Washington undergrad and she has been missing since Saturday afternoon, when she left the Rainier Beach neighborhood headed to the UW Seattle campus. Her parents have been trying to reach her all weekend; she apparently never made it to campus and has not been heard from by phone/Internet. They’ve filed a missing persons report with the Seattle Police Department. Hospitals have been alerted, according to family members, and bus and train routes have been checked. No sign.

Here’s more info we’re trying to spread via Facebook and Q13Fox/KCPQ in Seattle:

MISSING PERSON
Name: Marizela Perez

Date Missing: March 5, 2011, 12:00-12:30 P.M.

Last Seen: Rainier Beach area, heading to UW Seattle campus to meet friends for lunch or study in the UW libraries
Possible Routes: Sound Link Light Rail stations, downtown/Chinatown areas, UW Seattle campus, U-district

Description – Asian female, 5’5” tall, 110 lbs, skinny build, asymmetrical bob with short bangs and brown/red highlights hairstyle, tattoo on left inner arm with the words ‘lahat ay magiging maayos’, last seen wearing denim jeans, light brown suede laced boots, possibly wearing green eye contacts, possibly carrying a plaid backpack with a Macbook Pro laptop, taking medication for depression.

***Please keep Marizela and her family in your prayers. She is a lovely young woman who has her whole life in front of her. Let's do everything in our power to bring her back, safe and sound to the loving arms of her family. Thank you and God bless.***

ON A SIDE NOTE: I will be debating Former #1 Alaskan Radio Talk Show Host Eddie Burke TONIGHT on Patrick Adams' radio show at 8 pacific/11 eastern. The debate topic will be whether or not Sarah Palin will run for president come 2012. I believe she will; Eddie believes she will not. Make sure to tune in because this is sure to get heated!!! Here is the link to listen online: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/reagantman/2011/03/08/patricks-world-usa-special-edition-030711. Thanks!!!

(Follow me on Twitter @RachelleFriberg.)

Update: Tucker Carlson "Blames" Charlie Sheen for his Sexist Behavior

2011-03-01T08:43:00.000-08:00

UPDATE: Last night, Tucker Carlson tweeted the following appology:

I'm sorry for last night’s tweet. I meant absolutely no offense. Not the first dumb thing I’ve said. Hopefully the last.

My good friend and co-host, Camille Friend, over at The Design Conservative wrote an excellent piece last night, bringing to my attention a recent comment Political Pundit and Daily Caller Founder Tucker Carlson tweeted (and later permanently deleted). In this tweet, Mr. Carlson took it upon himself to call former Alaska Governor, author and Political Contributor Sarah Palin a "MILF" or in his exact words a "milfistan." This is a term that not only serves to degrade and demean the female sex, but shows a total lack of respect and common human decency. I am not about to go into detail about the meaning of this word, if it can even be called that, so you will have to take my word for it or go surf the web. For those of you out there who have never heard of this term, I am sure you will immediately realize the stupidity Mr. Carlson illustrated in describing Sarah this way.

We hear many members of the far left speak this way about female candidates like Sarah Palin and Michele Bachmann and political contributors like Michelle Malkin, but to hear an uncouth statement like this come from a so-called conservative cuts the wound even deeper. In making comments like this, he has basically offended women across the country regardless of political ideology. This type of disgusting talk has unfortunately become the norm in today's political climate.

Individuals like Carlson, who get paid for their political commentary, have forgotten that in order to be taken seriously, you have to remain respectful and hold at least some form of a moral code to which you live your life. Perhaps my friend, Camille, put it best:

If you *must* use locker room language, save it for the locker room. Don’t display your inner-most Neanderthal to your 23,000+ Twitter followers - some of whom will take the opportunity to offer their own crass retort. Surely, we can expect more from you, Mr. Carlson - can’t we?

I have always respected Mr. Carlson because he has done a lot to advance the conservative movement with his commentary and writings. With this said, I have lost a lot of respect for this man given his most recent comments. I would hope that Mr. Carlson, the man, would apologize or at least restrain himself from making comments like this again, but it seems as if this is not going to happen anytime soon given his most recent tweet posted moments ago:

Apparently Charlie Sheen got control of my Twitter account last night while I was at dinner. Apologies for his behavior.

Mr. Carlson, wise up. Joking around and blaming Charlie Sheen for your ridiculous tweet is about as ridiculous as blaming President George W. Bush for the rain we had this past weekend here in my home state of California. Not cool, Mr. Carlson, not cool....

(Follow me on Twitter @RachelleFriberg.)

Conservative Girl with a Book

2011-02-17T08:00:00.000-08:00

As a lover of literature- political literature being my favorite, I have longed enjoyed reading books by a variety of authors. When I first started this blog, I realized there was a need to inform individuals with the truth and the facts. As a young conservative, I have been blessed to have amazing readers who inspire me each and everyday to continue writing. It is because of this and at the urging of others that I have decided to write a book targeting young conservatives and beyond. I have been amazed at the number of young people who have commented that they can really identify with me because of their conservative beliefs. In writing this book, I want to educate other young conservatives about the importance of getting involved politically and let them know that they are not alone in their conservative thinking.

There are so many "Hollywood" types out there who attempt to tell us what to believe. You do not only see this in Hollywood. Meghan McCain is a good example of a young person who basically goes out there calling herself a Republican when it is clear she is not. In typical RINO fashion, she attempts to speak for young people like myself, and whenever it is announced that she is to be a guest on a nightly news show, I immediately cringed. I did not always feel this way. There was a time when I admired Meghan McCain and the way in which she stood up for her father and his political beliefs. This admiration turned to disappointment after the election when she repeatedly spoke out against the Republican principles I firmly stand on the side of. Now, it appears that the only things I share with Meghan McCain are hair and eye color. The young conservatives I communicate with feel the same way. They are sick and tired of young people like Miss McCain who speak for them or tell them what they should believe. It is time for these young, conservative Republicans to tell their stories about what conservatism means to them, and I cannot wait to speak with young conservatives from all across the country and include their stories in the book.

As a woman from California, people I meet immediately assume I hold liberal beliefs. At first, I kind of laugh it off, but the more I think about it, I really cannot blame them for thinking this way. For years, the media and society have repeatedly played the "gender card," basically trying their best to convince us that a majority of modern-day women hold liberal ideologies. This is a misguided notion, for there are many women out there just like me who believe in conservative principles. Sarah Palin and Michele Bachmann are two strong, modern-day women who have shattered this glass ceiling. These conservative, pro-life women are two of my role models, and I know I am definitely not alone in feeling this way.

I have already started the book preparation process, and I cannot wait to see where this journey takes me. Thanks so much for continuing to inspire me and for taking the time to read my blog!!! Now, let the writing begin....

(Follow me on Twitter @RachelleFriberg.)

Sarah Palin Continues to Inspire and Fascinate Americans and the Rest of the World

2011-02-10T08:04:00.001-08:00

Happy birthday, Governor Palin!!! As many of you know, I started this blogging journey, in part, because of Sarah Palin. When I first started blogging in May 2009, I did not know how long my blogging attempts would last nor did I know the success I would have. After all, there are so many amazing common-sense conservative bloggers out there, and I thank all the bloggers out there who continue to inspire me and the millions of conservatives like me. Bloggers, writers and commentators like Michelle Malkin, Leslie Sanchez, Dan Riehl, Jedediah Bila, Robert Stacy McCain, Lisa Graas, Andrew Brietbart, Sissy Willis, Jennifer Cubachi, Adrienne Ross, Whitney Pitcher, SE Cupp, Stacy Drake, Patrick Adams, Camille Friend, Melissa Clouthier and so many others inspire me to continue to want to be a better writer, so to you I say "THANK YOU."

Finally, I want to thank Sarah Palin for all she has done in the name of freedom and liberty. Happy birthday!!!

Sarah, after blogging for nearly two years, I am still inspired by you and all you stand for. Unlike so many people of our time, you are unafraid to stand up and to speak out, doing the dirty work so many refuse to do. You is both unafraid and determined to make America that shining city on a hill.

In honor of Sarah, I have decided to take a step back into time and re-post my very first blog entry. I cannot believe everything that has happened in the time since this post. Enjoy:

The night before John McCain was to announce his running mate, speculation was running rampant. Journalists were fighting tooth and nail in an attempt to get any shred of information regarding the "top-secret" pick. For me, personally, the "night before" speculation has become a "where were you the night before the world was introduced to Sarah Palin?" Just as I am able to recall where I was when OJ Simpson, hidden away in his infamous White Ford Bronco, was being chased down the highway by police, I am able to recall where I was on, what would become, the eve Republican-Party history would be made. I was watching Hannity and Colmes with my mom, listening to the guys’ debate on who they felt would be picked. Names such as Romney, Pawlenty, Huckabee, Jindal and even Lieberman were being thrown around like a football. As a young conservative woman, I have tremendous respect for all of the men above, but I did not have the enthusiasm I would soon have when I turned the news on the next morning.

Sarah Palin IS the reason why I have centered this blog on strong, conservative female women. It was Sarah Palin who re-energized a party that was split. Before Sarah Palin, John McCain was struggling to stay afloat, struggling to keep up with the glitzy, charismatic candidate that was Barack Obama. Sarah Palin was his "hole in one." I remember saying to my mom: "Why doesn't the Republican Party have any strong, conservative female candidates?" Well, I didn't have to wait that long for my answer because it came the next morning in the form of AK Governor Sarah Palin. I will never forget hugging my mom, tears in my eyes saying that I finally had an American political role model. Here she was, a self-described hockey mom who had a loving husband and five adorable children. What was not to love about her? Like many, I have so much in common with her; she is an every woman of sorts. An individual who started out just like many Americans, who learned to work hard and in the end achieve great things. A woman who mothers can cite as an example to their young daughters that they too can have a family and be whatever they want to be. Of all the decisions John McCain made during the campaign, his choice of running mate was the best by far.

On a final note, I have to admit that it was fun to watch the mainstream media trip over themselves throughout the day of the announcement as they scrambled to uncover any little tidbit they could about the Alaskan governor: "She hunts, she fishes, she's the hottest governor in the coldest state, she was a beauty pageant contestant..." The media could not get enough of Sarah. Although the stories about her soon turned into negative tabloid journalism, it was memorable to see that for once, Barack Obama had been overshadowed. It is as if Sarah Palin and Barack Obama were characters straight from the Brady Bunch, with Barack crying out "Sarah, Sarah, Sarah."

(Follow me on Twitter @RachelleFriberg.)

Ronald Reagan's Legacy Lives On

2011-02-04T11:12:00.001-08:00

UPDATE: Please visit this website to sign the petition to name the San Diego-Coronado Bay Bridge after Ronald Reagan. We only have until tomorrow, and we have nearly 300 signatures to go. Please the spread the word! Signing the petition is really simple and takes less than a minute out of your day!!! THANKS!!!

I miss President Ronald Reagan. As we quickly approach this coming weekend, Sunday marks what would have been President Reagan's 100th birthday. As a young conservative and a self-described "Reagan baby," I am always eager to hear stories about this dear man, father, president and all-around amazing American Patriot. Ronald Reagan will be remembered for many things- everything from how he managed to bring the country together during hard and difficult times, his conviction as he held strong to his beliefs, the way in which he had an amazing sense of humor, and the everlasting love he and his wife, Nancy, shared. Everyone has their own favorite memory of this man and his legacy. For me, it is the way in which he valued the people and did everything in his power to put their best interests first. The Reagan Library is a great resource for those who want to learn more about President Reagan's legacy. I have never had the honor of visiting the library, but it is on my bucket list of things to do this year. Until then, I will continue to read about his legacy and the important impact that he had on the country as a whole. There is a great write up I recently found on the Reagan Library Website that describes Reagan's belief in "a more perfect union." In light of this coming Sunday, I have decided to include it below as it is a classic example of just what made Ronald Reagan that "classic" brand of compassion, genuineness, integrity, and character mixed with that no-nonsense toughness that makes a successful president a great leader:

Given the dire state of the economy facing Ronald Reagan when he assumed the Presidency, it would have been understandable had he focused exclusively on those challenges. But he came to office with a broad agenda, and there were many important problems to solve. One that was of particular importance to the President was the how well the government served the people. He firmly believed that the government should work for the people, not the other way around. Governor and then President Reagan thought of the people as his boss, who, by electing him, had hired him to do the job. Throughout his career, Ronald Reagan was fond of telling true stories about the illogical and often mind-boggling – not to mention exasperating – inefficiency of the Federal bureaucracy. Although he did so with a smile, underlying the story-telling was a deep frustration. He vowed that if he ever had an opportunity to do something about it, he would. And he did. Not only did his Administration reduce the burden of excessive, redundant and unnecessary paperwork on businesses working with the government, it made changes that affected real people on a daily basis. When President Reagan took office, it took seven weeks to get a Social Security card and 43 days to get a passport. By the time he left, either one – or both – could be had in just 10 days.

As much as he used his own passport over the years, and as exotic and exciting as some of his foreign trips were, Ronald Reagan always looked forward to coming home. He genuinely loved America. From his beloved California to the New York Island, he was in awe of our country’s sheer beauty. Spacious skies, amber waves of grain, purple mountains’ majesties, oceans white with foam were not just words to him. It was how he saw America. He believed he had a special responsibility to protect the country’s environment and to preserve its natural beauty. President Reagan did more than just talk about it. The Reagan Administration was the first to establish a special unit at the Department of Justice to prosecute criminal polluters.

Polluters were not the only criminals who President Reagan intended to put out of business. Keeping people safe was always a top-of-agenda item for the Reagan Administration. It took a while, but in 1984, Congress passed the President’s Comprehensive Crime Control Act, which kept dangerous people behind bars, restricted the use of the insanity defense, reviewed Federal sentencing guidelines and toughened penalties for drug dealers and others. That same year, the President signed another very significant piece of legislation which made child pornography a separate criminal offense. The effect of the President’s work to prevent crime and put criminals where they belonged was dramatic. Nearly 2 million fewer households were hit by crime in 1987 than in 1980.

Preventing crime and locking up bad guys was only part of what President Reagan did to ensure justice for all. Another key component of his program was the appointment of judges who would faithfully interpret the Constitution rather than legislate from the bench. Of all the judicial appointments made by the President, none was more historically significant than Sandra Day O’Connor in 1981. When Ronald Reagan became the first President to nominate a woman to serve on the United States Supreme Court, he shattered a glass ceiling that had been in place since the founding of the country, forever changing not only the judiciary, but the role of women in our society. Little girls everywhere could now aspire to heights previously unavailable to them.

In many ways, President Reagan’s nomination of Sandra Day O’Connor was emblematic of how he viewed people – without an iota of prejudice. Gender, race ethnicity and religion just did not matter to him in the slightest. They were never factors in his decision making, other than when people were being discriminated against. When that happened, President Reagan was a tenacious fighter for equal rights. Under his leadership, the Federal government equaled or surpassed the number of civil rights cases filed by any previous Administration in virtually every enforcement category. Principal civil rights organizations received almost 18% more in funding.

President Reagan never forgot what it was like to grow up in a household with very limited financial means. He knew its impact on quality of life and helping the poor escape poverty was something he cared about deeply. Under his leadership, Federal spending for basic low-income assistance programs rose by 40%. The President also knew that a good education was the ticket out of poverty, and when his National Commission on Excellence in Education termed the U.S “A Nation at Risk” because of declining educational quality, he called for a variety of remedies including overall higher standards and accountability, parental choice and merit pay for teachers and principals.

Ronald Reagan was the first President to address the issue of HIV and AIDS. He established a Presidential Commission and consulted with Government agencies and private groups, after which a broad plan to fight the disease was implemented. Billions of dollars were committed for research, regulations making it difficult to get drugs to patients were eliminated and educational programs were developed, all of which were underpinned by a message of empathy for those infected. In a speech to the American Foundation for AIDS Research in May, 1987 he said:

“What our citizens must know is this: America faces a disease that is fatal and spreading. And this calls for urgency, not panic. It calls for compassion, not blame. And it calls for understanding, not ignorance. It’s also important that America not reject those who have the disease, but care for them with dignity and kindness.”

There was not a day during his eight years in the White House that Ronald Reagan did not work to ensure the domestic tranquility written about in the very first sentence of the Constitution. Forming a more perfect union was why he sought the Presidency in the first place, and was his “north star.”

Thank you, President Reagan, for instilling in us the value of character, integrity and the importance of aiming for that "north star." The more I study you, the more I am reminded just how great a country I live in. Your dream for a better, stronger America lives on, and it is my hope that Americans will realize the importance of your legacy and the way in which you restored the American dream.

I leave you with the insight from Americans, who like me, continue to be inspired by this great man:

What an amazing political leader and role model!!! He once said that the American people see themselves in him... and that we feel as if he is one of us, how true is that? He was a type of father figure to so many of us. He is definitely missed!
-Reanna

I loved Reagan because he was always positive in the face of doubt and sadness. He loved this country more than most people and would not get mad. He used humor and commonsense to win a argument.
-Brad

President Reagan was the epitome of class, of skill and of true leadership. He did not side with the special interests or the lobbyists, but rather he stood up for every man, woman and child; both the born and unborn.

As someone from outside of the United States, I'm glad to think back a few years and of course not only think of President Reagan but of Margaret Thatcher too. They really were two peas of the same pod. Strong, fearless and determined. Through everything, President Reagan and America were there with their hand out ready to help us, and the same of course went for Great Britain. We were two nations joined under the magnificent leadership of two great leaders. So not only to President Reagan, but to the USA: Thank you! Thank you for always having our backs.

People often wonder what there is left to act as a testament to President Reagan and all he stood for. I say look around! The fact that there is still freedom in the world is down to many people. And one of those people is Ronald Reagan.
-Daniel from the UK

In 1986, I was outside with my friends shooting off fireworks. As a young twenty-something, we were just having a great time. I went into my house to go to the bathroom and didn't come back out until about 45 minutes later. I watched that speech, glued to the couch with my parents, knowing that my friends were outside waiting for me. I didn't care. I was stuck to the set, watching the speech. Once they started shooting off the fireworks in New York, I went back outside. When my friend Ed asked where I was, I told him about the speech. He asked why I didn't come and get him. I told him, I couldn't move from the TV. (Watch the speechhere)
-Patrick

President Reagan, thanks for the memories!!! I would like to close this post by sharing what a friend recently told me. He said that we could really use another Ronald Reagan. Yes... yes we could!!!

(Follow me on Twitter @RachelleFriberg.)

Senator Schumer: Are You Smarter than a Fifth Grader?

2011-02-01T07:53:00.000-08:00

Remember how a large number of House of Representative members took the time to read the Constitution on the House floor? Well, it looks as if the members of the Senate should consider doing the very same, well at least if your name is Chuck Schumer, that is. Recently, on CNN's State of the Union, he said the following about the three branches of government:

We Have three Branches of Government. We Have a House, a Senate and a President.

The House, the Senate and the President- yes, you read it right. Is that your final answer, Senator Schumer? Because if it is, you're wrong. Perhaps if you were listening in history class or even to your constituents, you would realize that the three branches of government are the legislative, executive and judicial. I know this, and I bet if you asked a fifth-grade class, the majority of them would know this too, but do the media choose to report this misstep? If you said, "no," then you are exactly right. Now, imagine if the tables were turned and Sarah Palin or Michele Bachmann had said such a thing. The media would turn around and make it the top story on the five o'clock news. Leftist so-called journalists like Chris Matthews would get all giddy and develop a tingling all over just describing every epic detail of what was said- everything from the way they said it, to whether or not they were looking at the camera. I guarantee it!

This is yet another example of the world we live in today. While it is perfectly all right for a liberal, senior member of the Senate to screw up, it is intolerable and down-right unintelligent if a member of the Republican party were to so much as utter the occasional "umm" during an interview. This is the world we live in today. A world in which liberals can mess up and misstate elements of American history, but everyone else better watch their "p's" and "q's." How ironic is this coming from a man who said this shortly after Palin was selected to be John McCain's running mate:

After the great success of the Democratic convention, the choice of Sarah Palin is surely a Hail Mary pass. It is a real roll of the dice and shows how John McCain, Karl Rove et al realize what a strong position the Obama-Biden team and Democrats in general are in in this election. Certainly the choice of Palin puts to rest any argument about inexperience on the Democratic team and while Palin is a fine person, her lack of experience makes the thought of her assuming the presidency troubling. I particularly look forward to the Biden-Palin debate in Missouri.

Well, Senator Schumer, I guarantee Palin never will utter the same gaffe you made this weekend. Instead of uttering ridiculous statements, I suggest Senator Schumer take a play out of Palin's playbook and brush up on the history of government- maybe it is time to brush up on the Constitution because until you do, I will be left wondering if you are smarter than the fifth graders you represent...

(Follow me on Twitter @RachelleFriberg.)

The Media Spin: A Twisted Tale of "Blood Libel" and False Reporting

2011-01-27T07:43:00.000-08:00

You all know the firestorm of criticism Sarah Palin received after her "blood libel" comments. Many pundits criticized her for her use of the term. Others defended her. All in all, it was what Former New York City Mayor Ed Koch, who describes himself as a "liberal with sanity," said regarding the use of this term that has stuck with me the most. As a staunch liberal, Mayor Koch is doing something the left and many on the right refuse to do by coming to the defense of the former Alaska governor and Republican vice presidential candidate. In a recent Huffington Post op-ed ed, Koch wrote the following in regards to Palin's "blood libel" claims against the media:

While the charge of responsibility against Palin was dropped, the Scarborough crew continued to assail her for defending herself on her website where she stated that she had been the subject of a blood libel. Her critics were incensed that she should use the term "blood libel." That was the description given by Jews to the charge of Christian clergy who falsely accused Jews of killing Christian children in order to make matzos (unleavened bread) during the Passover holiday. That libelous accusation was intended by those using it to cause pogroms that killed and injured thousands of Jews. It started in the early centuries A.D. and continues to date, according to Wikipedia. That same charge -- blood libel -- is now repeated by the media in Arab countries to stir up the anger of the Arab street against the Jews in Israel. The libel continues to do damage.

Today the phrase "blood libel" can be used to describe any monstrous defamation against any person, Jew or non-Jew. It was used by Prime Minister Ariel Sharon when he was falsely accused of permitting the Lebanese Christian militia to kill hundreds of defenseless and innocent Muslim men, women and children in Lebanese refugee camps. The killings were monstrous and indefensible revenge for earlier killings by Muslims of innocent Christian civilians.

Unlike the majority of lamstream media pundits, Koch gets it. To attack Palin for her use of this phrase, let alone the Tuscon tragedy, is hypocritical and that is putting it politely. It was outrageous enough for the media to accuse Palin for the tragedy that took place in Arizona, let alone attack her use of verbiage. You think they would have realized that the number-one rule of journalism is checking and re-checking your facts before reporting the news to millions and millions of people across the globe. It is bad enough that the media reported Congresswoman Giffords dead. The media need to definitely re-think how they go about conducting business on a day-to-day basis. The way in which they have conducted themselves throughout this entire Tucson tragedy has been both unprofessional and unfair to both the victims of this horrible event and the public at large. Koch is smart enough to realize this, and we are smart enough to know an act of extreme idiocy when we see it.

Will the media do things differently next time? After all, they unfairly targeted an innocent woman by accusing her of being responsible for this crazed killer's heinous actions. Furthermore, they falsely reported a woman dead, leaving her husband, who was on a plane, on his way to Arizona, to wonder, for over an hour, if his beloved wife was among those killed. I cannot begin to imagine the thoughts that must have been racing through Mark Kelly's mind. This is a man who loves his wife so deeply that it had to be the most unbearable news to hear. The media need to do better! It was not too long ago that the horrible shootings at Fort Hood took place. I still remember the media's reaction. We all know they repeatedly stated the need to wait for the evidence before placing blame on the radical Muslim who was responsible. Isn't it funny that this same media who pretty much protected Nidal Hasan had no problem placing blame on Sarah Palin for what happened in Tuscon? This just further illustrates the media's obsession with targeting all things conservative.

Unfortunately, this double standard is not about to end anytime soon. This is why it is imperative that we hold the media's feet to the fire, doing everything in our power to keep them honest. If you are a blogger, blog. If you are on Twitter, tweet. If you work for the media, stay objective. It is clear that the media are losing this battle. More and more people are opting out of the mainstream media's attempt to sway public opinion, turning to online resources, talk radio and objective cable news for their information. Mark my words, it will be these forms of media that will drown out the media spin and the media's attempts to play liberal messenger.

(Follow me on Twitter @RachelleFriberg.)

February Marks Reagan/Palin Appreciation Month

2011-01-26T08:05:00.000-08:00

Two amazing political figures were born during the month of February: Ronald Reagan and Sarah Palin. In honor of both of these individuals, Conservative Girl with a Voice has joined a variety of other blogs in honoring these two fascinating people. In honor of Ronald and Sarah, the following announcement has been made:

February is the month five of our presidents were born (4 past and 1 future). It also marks the 100th anniversary of President Reagan’s birth. We would celebrate Governor Palin’s and President Reagan’s birthdays anyway, but since the liberal media has called for a Palin moratorium, the authors at the Sarah Palin Information Blog have decided to spearhead a Reagan/Palin Appreciation Month. We want to honor Reagan for his outstanding service to our country, and we want to honor Governor Palin for her accomplishments and for all she continues to do for our country.

President Reagan fought Communism from the time he worked in Hollywood through his years in office and won the Cold War without firing a shot. His famous line, “Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!” will ring through history. America prospered during his Presidency as Reaganomics stimulated the economy, increased employment, and cut taxes and government expenditure. Ronald Reagan’s policies also increased the strength of our military.

Governor Sarah Palin has stood up and spoken out fearlessly in defense of conservative principles and national security when others remained silent,and she has taken the darts and arrows for doing so. And we have seen over an over that she was right. Her tireless efforts during the mid-term elections also helped elect men and women who will represent the American people instead of the establishment. All of her supporters are waiting anxiously in the hope that she will run for President and help lead our country out of the mess the current administration has gotten us into.

During February, as we celebrate President Reagan’s legacy and Governor Palin’s accomplishments, the Palin-friendly blogs that participate in Reagan/Palin Appreciation Month will be ramping up their coverage of all things Sarah Palin in a show of support for Governor Palin. We are asking all Sarah Palin supporters to sign the Reagan/Palin Appreciation Month Proclamation. Palin-friendly blogs that want to participate in this celebration can request to be added as sponsors of the Proclamation by using the Contact Petition Sponsor button on the petition website after signing the Proclamation.

February is barely a week away now, so let’s get organized to have a great month of celebration for two great Presidents – one who has finished his course and one who is waiting in the wings to bear his torch.

(Follow me on Twitter @RachelleFriberg.)

GOProud at CPAC: Much Ado About Nothing

2011-01-24T07:47:00.001-08:00

This year's CPAC Conference has already drummed up a bit of controversy with less than a month to go before conservatives from across the country gather to meet and hear from a variety of conservative leaders. Big-name speakers like Michele Bachman, Andrew Breitbart, Marco Rubio, Ann Coulter and other conservative greats are scheduled to address convention goers, but one conservative leader will be absent from the scheduled list of speakers. Senator Jim DeMint, a well-known conservative Republican and leader, has decided to for-go the this year's conference. His spokesperson did not give a specific reason, but instead left more to the debate of whether his reason for not attending has something to do with the fact that CPAC decided to invite GOProud, a gay Republican organization, to be among the list of this year's participating organizations. If this is DeMint's motive for deciding not to attend this year's conference, he is not alone. Popular conservative groups like The Family Research Council, Heritage Foundation and Media Research Center have pulled out their scheduled appearances.

If the GOProud's participation in this year's conference is the reason for his decision not to attend, what does this mean for conservatives? Furthermore, what does this mean for the Republican Party? While CPAC is not affiliated with the Republican Party, it is no secret that the vast majority of those who attend are Republicans. I, for one, do not see what all the hoopla is about. I mean, come on, if a gay conservative group wants to participate in CPAC, why not let them participate? This is America after all. You may be surprised by my reaction; after all, I am a strong believer in social conservative values and principles. I am also a big believer in traditional marriage, believing marriage should only be defined as between one man and one woman. But with this aside, I do not believe boycotting this year's CPAC is doing anyone any good. With this boycott comes unneeded controversy. Whether you like it or not, gays are apart of the conservative movement too. They go to work each day and pay their taxes just like you and I. They are active in their communities, and many believe in common-sense conservative values and the constitution. Now, I must make a very important point that I highly respect Senator DeMint and look up to him as a great leader in the Conservative Republican movement. With this said, I do not feel it does any good for groups to make a big hissy fit because a certain group has been invited to participate. CPAC is an event in which people come together for the purpose of sharing their conservative interests and brainstorming for ways in which to spread their message. CPAC is an event in which like-minded people gather to hear ways to make conservatism a more powerful force. People who identify themselves as conservatives need to look for common goals and the common ground to which they stand. By turning on one another, this does nothing, but hurt those who identify themselves as conservatives and everything to help the attempts by those like President Obama and the liberal left in their attempts to tear our side apart seam by seam, piece by piece. There is no doubt that many reading this will disagree with this argument, and that is your right. I am just stating observations and an opinion, but I know there are many individuals out there who will agree with my assessment.

Unfortunately, there is no black-and-white definition of "conservatism." It is not that simple, for we are not robotic beings. Even those who agree with each other 99 percent of the time will find that one percent of time when they are in disagreement. This is what makes America, America. Our country is based upon beliefs and ideas- it is these very beliefs that make our country the wonderful, authentic country that it is. When I attend various political events in which my fellow conservatives attend, I meet and speak with a variety of amazing people who identify themselves as conservative. I speak with men, women, blacks, whites, Hispanics, Asians, straights and gays. Just as the color of one's skin color does not bother me or make me think differently or like them any less, the same can be said about sexual orientation. In the end, it all comes down to one central point. When conservatives turn on one another, the left jumps up and down, doing back flips in between. Those on the left are foaming at the mouth right now because they are witnessing the friction that is occurring. Do we really want the left to win? Do we really want to hand them this victory? As a Christian conservative, God has called me love my neighbor. This does not mean I have to believe in gay marriage or support the gay lifestyle, but it does mean that I have no place to judge. I have gay friends, many of whom are the kindest, most trusting individuals, and yes, many of whom identify themselves as conservatives. Instead of bickering back and forth, begin a dialog. After all, those who bicker and argue back and forth usually do little, if anything, to strengthen the conservative voice and spread the conservative message.

Just a little food for thought....

(Follow me on Twitter @RachelleFriberg.)

If Sarah Palin is Snooki, Does this Make President Obama the Situation?

2011-01-18T12:08:00.000-08:00

As I was getting ready for work this morning, I happened to flip the channel to one of the most fair and balanced news networks in all of television news, good ol' MSNBC (wink, wink). I had not been listening for a total of two minutes before Sarah Palin's name came up. Liberal think-tank Donny Deutsch appeared on the Morning Joe panel and had this to say:

Why the fascination (with Sarah Palin)? It’s very simple, and I’m not going to be glib here. She is Snooki. It’s the same math. A younger generation-- they want to watch this character with big character, with big hair who’s funny; you don’t know she’s going to say. It’s no different, but for a higher demographic! We watch her, she’s interesting looking... what's she going to say? She’s campy, she’s kitschy, it’s telegenic, its television, its entertaining that’s the fascination. Beginning, middle and end of story, she’s Snooki.

Really, Donny, Snooki??? When you did not think the liberal left's fascination could not get anymore creepy or delusional, it does. This clearly is because Sarah Palin is a political rock star whom the liberal left cannot help, but talk about constantly throughout each news cycle While objectively reporting the facts is one thing, making asinine comments is another. After Deutsch's comments, Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski seemed to cowardly distance themselves by quickly moving on to their next topic, sweeping his comments under the rug, which caused me to believe even they believed his comments were both tacky and way off base.

What Deutsch does not seem to understand is that when he compares a woman like Sarah to a star of childish reality show, he is doing a huge disservice to both politics and women. By comparing Sarah to this reality starlet, Mr. Deutsch is basically saying Sarah Palin is only talked about for sheer entertainment value, not the intellectual. Would he compare President Obama to Snooki's co-star, the Situation? I know this is a very extreme comparison, but it is no different than the comparison Deutsch made this morning. After all, then-candidate Obama based his whole presidential campaign around his charisma and picture-perfect family instead of his voting record and time as a member of the Senate. During the 2008 campaign, people were hanging on then-candidate Obama's every word, fainting along the campaign trail at the mere sight of him. I wonder if Mr. Deutsch remembers this. Perhaps Mr. Deutsch should stay off the reality trip and stick to reporting on business issues, unless, of course, he is looking to be hired by an entertainment news agency. But then again, I do not think he would last a day with his ridiculous comparisons and utter disregard for reporting the facts and the truth.

(Follow me on Twitter @RachelleFriberg.)

I've Been Nominated for a Shorty Award, and I NEED YOUR HELP!!!

2011-01-15T16:13:00.000-08:00

Today, I had the honor of being nominated for a Shorty Award in the category of Innovation by my friend, Lisa Graas. For those of you who do not know what a Shorty is, it is a social media award that awards people who use social media to get their message out there. If you have a Twitter account, I would be so excited and honored if you could click here and visit shortyawards.com/RachelleFriberg to vote for me in this category. It is really simple to vote. All you have to do is type in a short reason for why you are voting for me. Thanks again to Lisa, and thanks to those of you who are nice enough to take a short minute to vote to send me to New York City for the big award's night!!!

PLEASE VOTE AND SPREAD THE WORD!!! THANKS!!!

(Follow me on Twitter @RachelleFriberg.)

Sarah Palin: America's Enduring Strength

2011-01-12T07:13:00.000-08:00

A few hours ago, Sarah Palin posted a Facebook Note and video in regards to the recent shootings that happened over the weekend in Tucson, Arizona. The sentiments expressed by Sarah are echoed by millions throughout our great, resilient country. Although the scars will remain, America WILL recover and come out of this horrific event stronger and even more committed to making our country the greatest it can be!

Please click here to view the video of this statement.

Like millions of Americans I learned of the tragic events in Arizona on Saturday, and my heart broke for the innocent victims. No words can fill the hole left by the death of an innocent, but we do mourn for the victims’ families as we express our sympathy.

I agree with the sentiments shared yesterday at the beautiful Catholic mass held in honor of the victims. The mass will hopefully help begin a healing process for the families touched by this tragedy and for our country.

Our exceptional nation, so vibrant with ideas and the passionate exchange and debate of ideas, is a light to the rest of the world. Congresswoman Giffords and her constituents were exercising their right to exchange ideas that day, to celebrate our Republic’s core values and peacefully assemble to petition our government. It’s inexcusable and incomprehensible why a single evil man took the lives of peaceful citizens that day.

There is a bittersweet irony that the strength of the American spirit shines brightest in times of tragedy. We saw that in Arizona. We saw the tenacity of those clinging to life, the compassion of those who kept the victims alive, and the heroism of those who overpowered a deranged gunman.

Like many, I’ve spent the past few days reflecting on what happened and praying for guidance. After this shocking tragedy, I listened at first puzzled, then with concern, and now with sadness, to the irresponsible statements from people attempting to apportion blame for this terrible event.

President Reagan said, “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.” Acts of monstrous criminality stand on their own. They begin and end with the criminals who commit them, not collectively with all the citizens of a state, not with those who listen to talk radio, not with maps of swing districts used by both sides of the aisle, not with law-abiding citizens who respectfully exercise their First Amendment rights at campaign rallies, not with those who proudly voted in the last election.

The last election was all about taking responsibility for our country’s future. President Obama and I may not agree on everything, but I know he would join me in affirming the health of our democratic process. Two years ago his party was victorious. Last November, the other party won. In both elections the will of the American people was heard, and the peaceful transition of power proved yet again the enduring strength of our Republic.

Vigorous and spirited public debates during elections are among our most cherished traditions. And after the election, we shake hands and get back to work, and often both sides find common ground back in D.C. and elsewhere. If you don’t like a person’s vision for the country, you’re free to debate that vision. If you don’t like their ideas, you’re free to propose better ideas. But, especially within hours of a tragedy unfolding, journalists and pundits should not manufacture a blood libel that serves only to incite the very hatred and violence they purport to condemn. That is reprehensible.

There are those who claim political rhetoric is to blame for the despicable act of this deranged, apparently apolitical criminal. And they claim political debate has somehow gotten more heated just recently. But when was it less heated? Back in those “calm days” when political figures literally settled their differences with dueling pistols? In an ideal world all discourse would be civil and all disagreements cordial. But our Founding Fathers knew they weren’t designing a system for perfect men and women. If men and women were angels, there would be no need for government. Our Founders’ genius was to design a system that helped settle the inevitable conflicts caused by our imperfect passions in civil ways. So, we must condemn violence if our Republic is to endure.

As I said while campaigning for others last March in Arizona during a very heated primary race, “We know violence isn’t the answer. When we ‘take up our arms’, we’re talking about our vote.” Yes, our debates are full of passion, but we settle our political differences respectfully at the ballot box – as we did just two months ago, and as our Republic enables us to do again in the next election, and the next. That’s who we are as Americans and how we were meant to be. Public discourse and debate isn’t a sign of crisis, but of our enduring strength. It is part of why America is exceptional.

No one should be deterred from speaking up and speaking out in peaceful dissent, and we certainly must not be deterred by those who embrace evil and call it good. And we will not be stopped from celebrating the greatness of our country and our foundational freedoms by those who mock its greatness by being intolerant of differing opinion and seeking to muzzle dissent with shrill cries of imagined insults.

Just days before she was shot, Congresswoman Giffords read the First Amendment on the floor of the House. It was a beautiful moment and more than simply “symbolic,” as some claim, to have the Constitution read by our Congress. I am confident she knew that reading our sacred charter of liberty was more than just “symbolic.” But less than a week after Congresswoman Giffords reaffirmed our protected freedoms, another member of Congress announced that he would propose a law that would criminalize speech he found offensive.

It is in the hour when our values are challenged that we must remain resolved to protect those values. Recall how the events of 9-11 challenged our values and we had to fight the tendency to trade our freedoms for perceived security. And so it is today.

Let us honor those precious lives cut short in Tucson by praying for them and their families and by cherishing their memories. Let us pray for the full recovery of the wounded. And let us pray for our country. In times like this we need God’s guidance and the peace He provides. We need strength to not let the random acts of a criminal turn us against ourselves, or weaken our solid foundation, or provide a pretext to stifle debate.

America must be stronger than the evil we saw displayed last week. We are better than the mindless finger-pointing we endured in the wake of the tragedy. We will come out of this stronger and more united in our desire to peacefully engage in the great debates of our time, to respectfully embrace our differences in a positive manner, and to unite in the knowledge that, though our ideas may be different, we must all strive for a better future for our country. May God bless America.

- Sarah Palin

(Follow me on Twitter @RachelleFriberg.)

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