Talk About Your "Big Stinks"

Virginia Governor Bill McDonnell's proclamation of April being Confederate History Month has sure raised a "Big Stink." It seems that the veritable "Confederate Flag" has been raised, causing one group of people to do what they always do, attack the colors. It's like the red flag in front of a bull.

I didn't read the proclamation all that closely and didn't even notice the omission of the slavery word. It should have been in it as it definitely had its role in the war. Its existence had driven the sections of the United States apart to the point that the war had to happen.

But, you have to wonder if the word being left out was done on purpose or was it an omission? I believe the governor's apology and inclusion should handle it. But these other groups are still not happy and looking for blood.

Then they say that blacks should not have to have a Confederate History Month. There is a Black History Month which is a good time to learn about the contributions of that race. It is a good idea.

Confederate History Month is about the sacrifices and trials of both the Confederate soldier and civilians during those tumultuous years. The role of slavery is a part of that and should be a part of it.

Many slaves left the plantations, but others stayed. How much did the loss of labor hurt the Confederacy? How did the Union and Confederacy deal with the slaves? These are all subjects worthy of study during such a month.

It's Too Bad That a Basic Respect for Some People's Heritage Can Not Be Shown By Some. --Old B-Runner

And Now, Balls Are Under Attack

You've heard about the incessant attacks on the Confederate Battle Flag. Well, now it has been taken farther.

Two Escondido, California, middle schools have an annual tradition where, after a month-long course on the Civil War, boys dress up in Civil War uniforms and girls in dresses of the era for the "Confederate-Union Ball."

However, Kym Atkins said, "my child is black. If they are recreating history, my child would not be allowed to go to something like this."

The schools say it is one component of a month-long academic study by 8th graders at Bear Valley and Rincon middle schools "to understand what daily life was all about. They study the clothing, the food and all the things going on culturally."

Students dance waltzes and the Virginia Reel at the ball.

From the May 17th San Diego News TV.

I Wonder WHOSE Uniforms Mrs. Atkins Objects To? --Old B-Runner