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Loving the Greatest Generation - Senator Maria Chappelle-Nadal Weekly Newsletter

Loving the Greatest Generation - Senator Maria Chappelle-Nadal newsletter

Newsletter
April 18, 2013

Friends & Neighbors,

If you would like to learn more about the issues addressed in this newsletter or would like to discuss any matter involving state government, please contact my Capitol office.

Thank you,

Maria Chappelle-Nadal
14th District

Loving the Greatest Generation

This week, I wanted to take the opportunity to break away from the traditional legislative update that is usually sent to you.

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Recently, a very dear friend passed away. Mickey Rosen was 79-years old.  He jogged every single week and ate very well. Unfortunately, Mickey was misdiagnosed and suffered from a heart attack. This type of occurrence happens often, but this particular event caused me to deeply reflect on a group of individuals that I love with all my heart – the Greatest Generation.

My favorite people have always come from the Greatest Generation. Whether it is Willa or Marvin Boisseau or Harriett Woods or Juanita Carl, there is something special about the character of these people. Continually, I make an earnest effort to learn as much as possible. I ask questions, have listened or listen to their stories and advice. What I have found is that this generation speaks with purpose, substance and thoughtful reflection. The only thing that pains me is when one of my dear friends passes on. It hurts.

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America's Greatest Generation are those who grew up during the Great Depression and went on to fight the battles of World War II and the Korean War. Often we hear people say they cannot believe the condition of the country and the world today, but in reality today's problems do not compare and we should be aware of this fact.

In his 1998 book, Tom Brokaw coined the term “The Greatest Generation.”  He refers to the greatest generation any society has ever produced. I agree with Mr. Brokaw's observation that these men and women, black and white, poor and rich, fought not for fame and recognition, but because it was the "right thing to do." When they came back from the war they rebuilt America into a superpower, ended segregation, and sent men to the moon. What these great Americans accomplished could never be duplicated.

We live in a society today where we discard items regularly, trade-in vehicles and leave the lights on as long as we want. But the Greatest Generation did not and would not waste resources. The Greatest Generation was not easily scared like many are today. They did not flinch in the face of real tyranny overseas. They worked together and compromised on some of the toughest issues ever faced by mankind. Where would we be today without the Greatest Generation? I do not know the answer, but I am constantly reminded of their sacrifices when I visit with my neighbors and friends.

I am often overwhelmed with joy by some of my friends, like Fritzi Lainoff and Viola Weible, who are left from the Greatest Generation. The gifts they give to younger generations are limitless.  As they offer advice, we must remind ourselves that we must do everything in our power to walk in their steps, follow in their shadows to learn what it means to be “Great.” 

It is obvious the Greatest Generation will always hold a special place in my heart. Sadly, this generation will not be around much longer as they are in the winter of their lives. Please know this is the time to learn of their character, their struggles, the ideas they fought for, and the legacy they leave for future generations.

I urge you to reach out and thank the members of the Greatest Generation by visiting them and listening to their stories before it is too late. We must extend our thanks, though it is woefully inadequate, to convey the appreciation we feel for the costs they paid to ensure our freedoms. Please pay your respects to the men and women who paved the way for the lives we live today.

For those of you reading this column and who are from the generation I speak of, please know that I love you, what you stand for and what you represent! 

Thank you for your sacrifices!

The Greatest Generation:

  • Born between 1901-1943
  • Children of the WWI generation
  • Grew up during the Great Depression
  • Went on to fight for WWII
  • Produced 7 Presidents
  • Started Medicare
  • Used war knowledge to land a man on the moon
  • Reputation for hard work, patriotism, and responsibility
  • Challenged gender roles (women in the workforce)
  • Sharpest rise in schooling ever recorded at that time

 

Earth Day Forum at Clayton High School on Saturday

Please join me this Saturday, April 20, 2013, for my "Earth Day Forum" featuring lawmakers, environmentalists, and officials from the Missouri Department of Conservation and the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. The event is free and open to the public, and I would encourage you to do or learn something about protecting our precious Earth, even if you cannot attend my event.

 

My goal is to continue the conversation within our communities and throughout the world about how important it is for us to be good stewards of our environment. I hope to see you there and please mark your calendars. The event will be held at Clayton High School in the Stuber Gym from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

If you have any questions regarding the event, please feel free to contact my Capitol office.  

Bridgeton Landfill: After Rain, Smell Will Get a lot Worse Due to "Oder Reduction" Efforts (Riverfront Times) - http://blogs.riverfronttimes.com/dailyrft/2013/04/bridgeton_landfill_odor_reduction_republic_services.php

 

 

 Citizen Comments - 

"I want to personally express my sincere thanks to you for your support of the decision to remove property tax from consideration in the funding formula. As a trustee for STLCC, I also thank you on behalf of the north county residents of Subdistrict #1." – Melissa

"Thank you for all that you're doing!! What can I do to help?" – Beverly

"Thank you so much for all the work you do in Missouri, for women’s health & all the other important issues you’ve proven your dedication to. We know it can be very difficult at times with such major opposition. So a big THANK YOU from all of us in the reproductive health struggle." – Becca, Alison, Farilyn, Ellen

 

 

 Weekend Review - 

April 12 - April 14, 2013

It was another busy weekend in the 14th Senatorial District. Friday morning, I had a meeting with a constituent to discuss the issue of psychological care for children. Thereafter, I attended the University City School District's Spring Legislative Breakfast. Later that afternoon, I was able to grab lunch with my friend, Viola, before sitting down with a Saint Louis University student who interviewed me regarding the issue of gun violence. The student is doing graduate-level work in the area of public health and social justice.

Saturday morning I was blessed to meet several children and parents at the University City Public Library for story time. I was able to read some of my favorite stories. It is always nice to interact with my constituents, especially at the library. Later on Saturday, I attended the Turkish Coffee Night hosted by the Turkish American Society of Missouri (TASOM) Women's Club. The event featured presentations on Turkish culture, along with food and beverages that were delicious.

Sunday was just as busy as Friday and Saturday. Sunday morning I attended Rep. Tommie Pierson's (D-St. Louis) church service and spoke about the challenges we face in the legislature. It was great to see a fellow colleague give such inspirational words. Overall, it was a pretty good weekend filled with lots of friends and fun. It continues to be a blessing and honor to serve you.

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