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'God' off of Capitol flag certificates
Many constituents, through their congressional representative, request a flag to be flown to commemorate an important date or event. Last month, a 17-year old from Ohio requested a flag for his grandfather with the certificate to read, "for his dedication and love of God, Country, and family." However, the Architect of the Capitol would not allow the word "God" to be included. The certificate was returned with the word "God" removed, reading "for the love of family and Country." The architect cited his own rules for Flag Office Services, rule number eight which states, "…religious expressions are not permitted on flag certificates." He ruled that the use of the word "God" in the phrase, "for the love of God, family, and Country" constituted a religious expression. I have written to both the architect and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi calling for an immediate repeal of this policy. Our nation was founded on a belief in God. The word "God" is carved into the walls of both chambers of Congress; the acknowledgment of God is also found in our Constitution. For the architect of the Capitol to prohibit "God" from appearing on certificates for flags flown over the U.S. Capitol puts at risk our religious freedoms and our national heritage; our founders recognized the importance of religion as the foundation of good government, a principle that has been carried by proud tradition into the present day. My hope is this decision will be reconsidered and reversed. Everett's retirement Late last month, Terry Everett, who has represented Alabama's Second District for the past 15 years, announced he will be retiring at the end of this term. Terry has been a passionate advocate in the House not only for southeast Alabama but for the entire state of Alabama. I have had the privilege of serving with him on the House Agriculture Committee, where he is the nation's foremost advocate for peanut farmers. He has worked tirelessly on behalf of our nation's military, her veterans, and the intelligence community, where his experience has been invaluable. I am honored to serve with Terry, and I wish him the very best in this next phase of his life. My staff and I work for you. If we can ever be of service, do not hesitate to call my office toll free at 1- 800-288-8721 or visit my website http://bonner.house.gov.
Jo Bonner, R-Mobile, represents the First Congressional District of Alabama which includes a portion of Clarke County.
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