Are Cowboys and Indians Creating a Violent America?

      Although, guns have been in our country for decades, violence has become a major issue. Guns were a major part of our Forefather's lives. In other words, they used guns for battles, survival and they created Amendment 2 of the Constitution, stating that  "we have the right to bear arms". We also socialize our boys to be more assertive, by encouraging boys to play with toy guns, play cowboys and indians, play with GI Joe's, and that "loosers never prosper" when it comes to sports. This has become an issue because neither our Forefathers nor parents of boys considered the long term effects of guns and violence. According to the Uniform Crime Report (UCR) robberies have declined in the U.S. from 2008 to 2009 (-0.7 to -8.1). (Uniform Crime Report, 2009). The UCR is a national database that law enforcement uses to report crime in the U.S. However, we have more school shootings occurring, riots in bigger cities, and suicide rates have increased. Are television/films, poverty, breakdown of the family unit, race, and music to blame for this issue and if so what preventative measures can we take to correct this issue?

Television/Film

      This issue is going to be difficult to resolve when practically every television show and film glamorizes guns and violence to attract viewers.  However, our children are watching these violent films and television shows, such as cartoons, sitcom shows, and after school programs. Cops, NCIS, talk shows, the news, and numerous other television shows are also overloaded with violence. We want our children to be up-to-date on current events, which is great, but these children are watching violence on the evening news.  Television without violence would not be interesting at all ( Michael Moore, 2002). Afterall, how many people can honestly say that they would go watch a film or watch a  television show that does not have any violent content? Countries, such as Canada watch violent films and television shows, however, their crime rate is lower than ours (Michael Moore, 2002).
Race
     It has been found that numerous individuals who have been victimized, blame the black population for the crimes. However, the Bureau of Justice Statistics gives the following statistics: 69.2 % of whites/Hispanics were arrested in the U.S. in 2008 and 28.3 % of blacks were arrested in the U.S. in 2008 (Bureau of Justice Statistics).  People are stereotyping blacks on television shows by accusing blacks of the crimes (Michael Moore, 2002). Another opposing view is that Canada has a lot of diversity in their country, but Canada has a lower crime rate than the U.S. (Michael Moore, 2002).
Poverty/Location
      We could blame poverty for the violent acts that are occurring in the U.S. However, crime is occurring more in suburbia than in inner city areas (Michael Moore, 2002). Furthermore, poverty is an issue in Canada; however, low income housing in Canada appears to be more posh in comparison to the U.S. Canada still remains less violent than the U.S. (Michael Moore, 2002).
       Crime can occur anywhere, there is not safe place (Michael Moore, 2002). I found this to be true after speaking to my brother recently about a break-in that occurred to him in New York. He stated that these individuals were brave enough to walk into his apartment while he was still home. He believed that they were searching for drug money. I also spoke to my ex- husband who stated that there were several robberies occurring in his neighborhood when he was younger. The neighborhood he resided in (Louisville, Ky) he felt was safe and had never had any problems before. Neither my brother nor ex-husband lived in poorer neighborhoods, but they lived in bigger cities.
Music
      Parents want to blame music for violent acts, but other countries listen to violent music and they are not nearly as violent as the U.S. Many people in Littleton, Colorado accused the predators in the Columbine shootings of being violent because of the music they listened to. They all listened to Marylin Manson. Canada listens to violent music and they still have lower crime rate than we do here in the U.S. (Michael Moore, 2002). Therefore, music can not be the reason that the U.S. is more violent than other countries.
Breakdown of the Family Unit
      More divorces are occurring in the U.S., more singles are adopting children and more singles are having children, however, is this the reason that violence has increased in the U.S.? Personally speaking, I am a single parent and I have a son who will soon be 13 years old. He is not violent at all.  On the other hand, numerous children are staying at home alone for an extensive amount of time until their parent(s) get home. This could possibly become an issue because this gives children more free time and there is less discipline. For instance, An unsupervised 6 year old boy found a gun in his parents bedroom. He took this gun to his school the following day. He shot another 6 year old with the gun and killed her (Michael Moore, 2002).
Conclusion
      There are so many reasons why violence is a major issue in the U.S. more so than any other country. Whether the UCR wants to recognize violence as an issue or not, violence is becoming more prevalent in the U.S. The UCR may not be addressing this issue due to the fact that police enforcement does not report all data to the UCR, such as victimization surveys and Bureau of Justice Statistics (Wikipedia). We also need to take into account that the UCR data may be different this year due to the recession that is taking place in the U.S. For instance, there may be more robberies occurring since the U.S. in the mist of a recession. Furthermore, people may feel the need to commit robberies to provide for thier families. People may also become more hostile when it comes to being laid off at a job because they will have to draw unemployment or live without an income. Unfortunately, unemployment does not provide enough income for some individuals to provide for their families.
       The only real solution for this issue is to identify and advocate preventative measures that can help prevent violence. Some preventative measures to consider could be: provide more education classes for youth, create more after school programs for youth, enforce stricter laws to prevent violence, mandate for youth to participate in charity and volunteer work after school, address how we socialize our children, not be so harsh about winning every game of sports, and mandatory psychological exams for college applicants, and altering the Constitutional Rights. If the government will not alter the Constitutional rights, such as Amendment 2, then they should reinforce that parents keep their guns lock up so that young people do not have easy access to them. All of these preventative measures are going to take money, time , patience and community action. Otherwise, this issue is going to prevail and increasingly become more dangerous for us all.

      

       

Green Beans and Red Apples

      I will never forget my days as a young girl when I would travel to the country to spend time with my Nanny.  She was a little old woman, but she was quick with a fly swatter or a switch, which my younger brother learned early. Her hands were worn and blistered from her life as a farmer. These hands that were quick to discipline were the same hands that would welcome a stranger into her home. Anyone was welcome to make a visit to see her, but when it came time for her nap, she was sure to tell you it was getting late and you should be on your way. For, a woman like her needed a nap, so she could get up early to tend to her garden.  
      One could soon see that she was passionate about her garden for she would rise early in the morning before the sun made it's appearance. Red tomatoes, green beans, red grapes, granny smith apples, red delicious apples were her delight.  She would be in her garden from early in the morning hours until dawn. At dawn, she would go into the house and go straight to her bed to get a good night's rest for tomorrow was in just a few hours.
         When her fruits and vegetables were ripe she would go the market to sell them. She would sale what she could then return home to once again take care of her garden. The produce that she would not sale would be our next meal or she would give to friends and family. When it was time for dessert she would serve apple pie from the apples that she would grow in her garden.
         Occasionally, I would ride to market with her when my parents would need some time to themselves. We would ride in her truck with our windows down to catch a cool breeze. As we would ride, she would see a stranger walking by the road. She knew not a stranger for she would stop and ask them if they needed a ride.
         Although, I thought that my loved ones would never leave me, the day came that the Lord took her from me and the rest of my family. How I miss her apples, green beans, grapes, and tomatoes, but most of all, I will miss the times I spent with her as a young child and young adult. When I see an apple pie I will be sure to bless the Lord and thank her for the memories she left me with. May these memories always remain with me as I will share them with my son who never really knew her.
 
              
        

Daddy's Girl

        I find my childhood memories so fond as if yesterday never left me, but the memories that I will always cherish most are those of my Daddy. He was a country boy at heart because he wore plaid shirts, blue jeans, a belt buckle the size of a Korr's lid, and cowboy boots. He took pride in driving his pickup truck that he called "Old Bessy". His quiet demeanor was just a facade for he always had a joke and a smile that could make a grizzly bear laugh. As a young girl, I found out early how to find time to be with my Daddy, for I was indeed Daddy's Girl.
         Every morning he would wake me and my younger brother from our childish childhood dreams. As a young girl, I was not cheerful in the early morning hours. I would stay quiet and grumble about how sleepy I was. He would smile at me, and poke at me while saying, "I am going to make you smile before you leave for school today". He usually succeeded because a young girl like me could not resist to smile after being poked in the belly.
         He drove his pickup truck with the windows down, so neighbors from near and far could hear his Honky Tonk tunes: Hank Williams, Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, and Waylon Jennings just to name a few. I knew as a young girl that his pickup truck was his pride and joy, so I would ride around town with him just to keep him company. As we would ride, we would come to a bump in the road, then he would smile and say "Bumpty, bump".  Once again, he would bring a smile to my face and make me giggle.
          He always had a boat that he would store in the garage. He would hitch up his boat to the pickup truck, so he could go fishing. We always knew what we were having for dinner that evening when he would hitch up his boat to the back of his pickup truck. Occasionally, I would accompany him on his ventures to the lake or river. We would go fishing until the sun disappeared from the sky. Then, we would bring home a few fish to fry.
           My Daddy was also a church going man. He praised God every Sunday regardless of how tired he was from a long week at work. "Sunday's are the Lord's day", he would say to me and my sleepy younger brother. The day finally came when my brother and I both found salvation. Daddy was so proud of us both that he squeezed me, unintentionally, until my nose bled.
            He spent his leisurely time in front of the television, so I realized that this was when I could spend more time with him. I would spend many a day, watching the Cincinnati Reds play baseball. These were the days when Pete Rose and Johnny Bench were All Stars. He would also watch the UK Wildcats play at Rupp Arena. These two sports I will always remember him for and I still watch to this very day.
           He would give up the television set to my brother and I on Friday nights and Saturday mornings, but  Sundays were always his days. After Church he delighted in watching his car races on television. My younger brother and I knew as soon as he drifted off to sleep we could turn the channel on the television set, but somehow this would always wake him up. It was as if he had the television programed to wake him up if my brother and I changed the channel. If he only knew that today we have DVRs that can save the television shows that we want to watch later.
            Unfortunately, I was not aware that Daddy would have a short life to live. These are just a few of my fondest memories of my loving, devoted, joking Daddy. I will always keep these fond memories in my heart. As I watch the Reds or the Cats play ball, I will remember the joy and laughter he brought to me in my childhood days. These days of enjoyment with Daddy may have been short, but I will always remain Daddy's Girl.                     
          
         

Life In Lextown: My Life As An 'Ole Kentucky Girl

          People who do not reside in Lexington, Kentucky are unaware of the exciting life that exists in this lovely city.  As a Native Lexingtonian, I assure you that life can be an adventure. So, what is it that makes Lexington, Kentucky so interesting? Well, Lexington is known for our Kentucky Wildcats, horse farms, Keenland, The World Equestrian Games, extraordinary food, and several other exciting events.
          Horse farms can be seen all over our beautiful Bluegrass State because horses are part of our everyday lives. These horses are part of our lives due to the fact that these horses race at Keenland or at Church Hill Downs (Kentucky Derby). The Kentucky Derby is just one of the many times that Kentuckians entertain guests to honor our beloved horses. Some of our guests may included celebrities and politicians. These celebrities and politicians are as devoted to our horses as we are. They flock to our beautiful state to admire our Kentucky Derby and they are attending our World Equestrian Games starting in September. As one can see, this is why we call Kentucky "The Horse Capital of the World".
          What is life in Kentucky without Derby pies, Mint Julips, hot browns, and some Maker's Mark Whiskey? Our Derby Pies and Mint Julips are what we enjoy as we cheer on our favorite horse at Keenland and the Kentucky Derby. Hot Browns can be served at one of our many fine restaurants. Being that Maker's Mark Whiskey is made in our lovely state of Kentucky, it can be found at any of our restaurants or the local liquor store. These are just a few of the foods and beverages that we enjoy. Afterall, we all know that Southern cooking is the absolute best.
          It is true that Kentuckians and celebrities adore our Kentucky Cats. We seem to cater our lives around "game time" to watch the Cats play some ball. We have get togethers, grill out, cook some of the world's best homemade chilli, and gather around the television set just so we can yell our hearts out for the Cats to win. If we don't gather around the television set to watch the game, then you can find us along with celebrity, Ashley Judd, at Rupp Arena cheering on the Cats. When we loose we are heartbroken and feel ashamed, but when we win, we feel so proud that anyone could swear we were the ones actually playing the game.
          We have several events outdoors that we enjoy, but one of my favorites occurs on Thursday nights. At this event you can find Lexingtonians gathered together downtown Lexington's Cheapside Pavillion. What is this event that is so special and why is it so special, you may ask?  Why it's Thursday Night Live (TNL), of course. It is special because Thursday Night Live has live music, a huge crowd, great food, and beverages. It is also not unusual for hundreds of people to attend TNL especially when local bands such as The Big Maracas, and Coralee and the Townies are the entertainers. We cherish our local bands and live music.
          Yes, indeed Kentucky is an exciting place with entertainment of all sorts. We may not be as big as the state of Texas (my birthplace), but we do have hearts as big as the state of Texas when it comes to our love and devotion for our Wildcats, our horses, our local bands, and Thursday Night Live. We will continue to gather together any time of year to celebrate and honor our state. Afterall, there is definitely no place like "My Old Kentucky Home".

Mary Todd Lincoln House

       Many Americans are knowledgeable about the life and presidency of Abraham Lincoln, but how many of us know about the life of his devoted wife, Mary Todd Lincoln?  Mary resided in this exquisite home in downtown Lexington with her Father, Stepmother and her siblings. Although this home does not appear to be large enough for a family as big as Mary's family was, this home is extremely divine in every way.
       Mary may have not been close to her Step-Mother, but Mary took a liking to her Step-Grandmother. Her Step-Grandmother, was unlike other women at this time because she was extremely interested in politics. Mary adored this quality about her Step-Grandmother so much that Mary developed a strong relationship with her Step-Grandmother.

    

             

          Mary Todd and Abraham met at a dance and were inseparable every since then. Abraham made numerous accomplishments as President of the United States of America, so did Mary. One of Mary's achievements was that she remodeled the White House. The major disadvantage for Mary and Abraham while Abraham was President, was that animosity arose between Mary and her family members. Some of her family became less supportive of her and Abraham due to fact that the family had opposing political views. However, this did not prevent Mary, Abraham and their children from visiting this lovely Kentucky home. 

         After the assassination of Abraham, Mary became more spiritual and she decided to never marry again. She used her spirituality by conducting seances in her home in memory of her beloved Abraham. In Mary's later years, she began taking medications that caused health problems and hallucinations. Due to her declining health and the death of "Honest Abe", she died a lonely woman. Kentuckians and Americans can admire her life as the First Lady and congratulate her extraordinary efforts to improve the White House by visiting her beautiful home in lovely downtown Lexington.

Ashland-The Home of Henry Clay

         One of the most beautiful historical sites in "My Old Kentucky Home" that I was able to venture was the beautiful Ashland Estate of the late Henry Clay. Henry Clay labeled his home with the name, Ashland, because of the Ash trees that surround the land. It is also surrounded by numerous other beautiful estates. Over the years, the home began to crumble due to the house's faulty foundation and sand brick, so Henry Clay's son, James, rebuilt it.
          The grounds of this lovely estate portrayed that this estate was indeed a historical site. The grounds consisted of: an ice house, salt house, smokehouse, a lavish garden, and a cafe to eat at while touring.  The ice house and salt house were the first two sites I noticed when taking the tour of the grounds. Next, I noticed the smokehouse, which was where the meats were kept. After, taking the tour people can relax and eat at the outdoor cafe. Bushes and flowers cover the grounds of the lush green garden. All of these sites added to the lovely view of this estate.

             

    

      



              
            

               On my tour of this enormous home, I found out that Henry Clay was a  prominent figure in Kentucky and the United States of America due to his many accomplishments.  He was an attorney, a Congressman, a Senator, horse owner, and a farmer. He also earned the name "The Great Compromiser" after he convinced the government to make California a state. In order to compromise with the government, he spent most of his time traveling to Washington.

         

                Henry Clay was a truly remarkable gentleman and he is a legendary figure to every American. He worked 22 years in office to create a better America for us all even if he was not able to accomplish his ultimate desire of becoming the President of the United States. Kentuckians are proud he had the desire to reside in our beautiful state. May all Kentuckians and Americans alike, continue to keep Henry Clay's memories alive by visiting his lovely estate in the beautiful downtown Lexington. And may we remember him as we travel through the exquisite horse farms throughout the Bluegrass. Most of all, may we cherish him when we gather together at our beloved Keenland and Churchill Downs and sing our favorite song, "My Old Kentucky Home".

Who Am I???

                                                                                                                                                                                                     
          Hello, everyone my name is Sara Katherine Craddock. I live in the beautiful city of Lexington, Ky. Although I was not born in Kentucky, I have lived here the majority of my life. I am a proud mother of a wonderful son. I strive to be an interesting, well-rounded individual who has many aspirations in life. Some of my aspirations are: traveling, politics, sports, continuing my education by obtaining a Master's Degree in Social Work, and staying up-to-date on currents events. I want to share some of my journeys around Lexington, my views on politics, and my life in general with the rest of the world.

          I have recently traveled around my beautiful city of Lexington, Ky. I have found that my city is rich with history, culture, art and many creative individuals. I have visited several historical sites here in Lexington, gone to live music festivals, art festivals, and eaten at many fine restaurants here in Lexington. Because of this, I am grateful to reside in such a devine city as Lexington. 

          I stay aware of current events by reading numerous books/literature, watching the local and world news, and reading the Lexington Herald Leader as often as possible. I believe it is important to be aware of what is occurring around you.
          I am devoting more of my time to my political party by voting and voicing what I believe is best for the people of the United States of America.  I believe that everyone benefits by voting. I also believe that everyone needs to take advantage of the First Amendment and make their voice be heard. I did this by signing a Bill that will hopefully be passed as a Law to prevent 100,000 individuals from loosing their jobs. I am also going to assist in the 2010 election. Most importantly, I stand by my President, Obama. I'm fortunate enough to say that I was able to sign his Birthday card on August 4, 2010.
          I also enjoy my share of sports, such as the Reds baseball, The Bengals, and University of Kentucky football/basketball. My father was a loyal fan of the Reds and UK basketball. I have just recently become a fan of the Bengals because of their generosity to my son and his Father. My ex-husband was able to meet the Bengals, have dinner with them and the Bengals gave him a Bengals jacket, Bengals hat, and Bengals sweatshirt.
          I have a Psychology Degree, but I plan on obtaining a Master's in Social Work hopefully, soon.  I already have a wonderful job, but I want to eventually have my own practice. I also want to continue my involvement in community work and charity work.

           I have a brilliant, loving, wonderful son. He has made the Honor Roll every year that he has been attending school. I am extremely proud of him. Although, his Father and I have been divorced for 9 years, we always ensure that our son has the best in life. I do some of this by including my son in my exciting adventures.