Are we still a people who will stand by our democratic allies, or must we prioritize those who claim the mantle of the oppressed, regardless of the methods they use to assert their will?

Charlie Kirk's tragic assassination at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025, exposed America's deepening fractures—not just in politics, but in our capacity for civil discourse. As founder of Turning Point USA, Kirk championed conservative values like freedom, personal responsibility, and limited government, engaging critics with firm yet compassionate debate. He attacked ideas, not individuals, modeling a respect that's increasingly rare.

Phil Robertson (1946–2025), founder of Duck Commander and star of *Duck Dynasty*, overcame alcoholism through faith in Jesus and built a life rooted in Christian principles. A former athlete, teacher, and inventor of the Duck Commander call, he emphasized faith, family, and community service. In his 2020 book *Jesus Politics*, Robertson urged Americans to elect leaders who reflect biblical values, drawing from 40 years of study to present his “Kingdom Manifesto,” which define

If you have lived in Redding for a while, you might be aware of his extravagant and awe- inspiring Christmas light display seen every year on Barrel Court, known as the Big Red Barn. Or you may have been persuaded by his good humor and sincerity to buy a raffle ticket or make a donation to a charity.