Guest Commentary |
A snake in the bird cage and the Trump assassin

by Glenn Mollette, Guest Commentator


The world watched a miracle take place as former President Trump barely missed an assassin’s bullet.

Thousands of people in the audience witnessed this in person and multiple millions of people watched it live or have since seen the video replayed many times.

July 13 will go down as a day that will forever be remembered in American history. It was a sad day when there was an attempt made to take a former President’s life while he was campaigning for reelection.

While most Americans are relieved that the heinous attempt on Trump’s life was not successful, we mourn that some people sitting in the crowd were not as fortunate. At this writing one man in the crowd was killed while two more persons remain in critical condition. The question has surely been asked why such innocent people have to suffer and even die while simply attending a political rally? Most likely, the assassin’s target was only Trump but he was apparently not concerned that others might die as a result of his actions.

Evil always afflicts the innocent. Time and time again, we have seen mass school shootings where a shooter had a specific target in mind yet others were killed and suffered along with the targeted victim. Evil has no boundaries or concerns about the results of its actions.

We have heard it said over and again that this was a sad day in America. It is also sad that every political campaign event will be crawling with security at an even higher level. This doesn’t mean that the most recent event in Pennsylvania was not crawling with security. At any event a snake can slither into a crack and then suddenly strike to inflict pain and devastation.

Recently, a neighbor was out of town and his sister was taking care of his two pet birds. She was shocked when she went to feed them and discovered a four-foot-long snake was in the cage and had killed one of the birds. How the snake got into the house is unclear. How the snake got up to the elevated level where the birds were seemingly safe is hard to understand. However, it was there and in time would have killed the second bird.

Somehow, my cousin got the head of the snake between a pair of scissors and called another neighbor to help. They managed to cut off the head of the monster snake before dragging it out of the bird cage. Unfortunately, one precious pet bird perished and the second one was terrorized before the snake was killed.

Assassins and mass shooters are like slithering snakes crawling quietly to strike their victims. They hide, they are creepy, sneaky, and plot to move under the radar. The Secret Service, FBI, and local police must work hand in hand to screen every nook and cranny as well as every high and low space to hopefully deter such an act from happening again.

Tragically, it’s happened too many times before. Abraham Lincoln was sitting in an unprotected theatre booth in Washington, D.C.

President Kennedy was riding in a convertible and was a wide-open target from various angles. Martin Luther King Jr. was caught off guard on the balcony of a Memphis Hotel. John Lennon and his wife were simply walking into their New York City apartment building. There are many others that have been targeted throughout history.

We can never let our guard down. Even when our guard is high, there is the risk of a slithering villain lurking in the vicinity.


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He is the author of 13 books including Uncommom Sense, the Spiritual Chocolate series, Grandpa's Store, Minister's Guidebook insights from a fellow minister. His column is published weekly in over 600 publications in all 50 states. The views expressed are those of the author and are not necessarily representative of any other group or organization. We welcome comments and views from our readers. Submit your letters to the editor or commentary on a current event 24/7 to editor@oursentinel.com.


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Here's our notes, 6 things to look for when renting a storage unit


Photo: Adam Winger/Unsplash

SNS - Knowing what to prioritize can make all the difference if you want to find the perfect storage facility. So, let’s review the six things to look out for when renting a storage facility. From location and security to cleanliness and cost, understanding these key elements will help you find the right storage solution for your needs.


Picking out the most ideal location
One of the main things to look out for when renting a storage facility is its location. It's not just a matter of convenience because it also affects its practicality and ease of access. Imagine needing to retrieve something from storage urgently. If your chosen facility is just around the corner from your home or workplace, the task becomes a simple errand rather than a time-consuming journey.

Consider the alternative scenario: a storage unit located miles away from your usual routes. Every visit becomes a logistical challenge, requiring extra time and effort. Long drives waste precious time and add up fuel costs, too.

Furthermore, proximity to your location means managing your stored items becomes much more convenient. Whether you need to swap out seasonal items, retrieve something for immediate use, or simply check in on your belongings, having a storage facility nearby makes these tasks quick and easy. It's like having an extension of your home just a stone's throw away. This way, due to close proximity, you’ll benefit from your chosen storage facility as much as you would from having a freestanding storage unit on your property.


Security measures
You should pay attention to security when selecting a storage facility. After all, if you’re renovating your home and want to properly store valuables away from all the chaos or just need some extra space for valuables, reliable security is a must.

Photo: Pawel Czerwinski/Unsplash
When considering security measures, look for facilities equipped with advanced systems. Surveillance cameras, both indoors and outdoors, provide round-the-clock monitoring. This visual deterrent can discourage potential intruders and guarantee your belongings are under constant surveillance.

Gated access adds an extra layer of security, restricting entry to authorized individuals only. With access codes or key cards, you can control who enters the facility, minimizing the risk of unauthorized access. This feature offers peace of mind, knowing only trusted individuals can access your stored items.

Then, on-site security personnel provide a physical presence, further enhancing security measures. Trained professionals can respond swiftly to any security threats or emergencies, maintaining the safety of your belongings. Their presence adds an extra level of protection, especially during non-business hours.

Lastly, consider facilities that offer individual unit alarms. These alarms are triggered by unauthorized entry attempts, alerting facility staff and authorities to potential security breaches.


Climate control
Climate control is a major factor to consider when selecting a storage facility. It's about keeping your belongings safe and preserving their condition over time. Whether you're storing electronics, documents, or furniture, maintaining stable conditions helps prevent damage.

After all, extreme temperatures can wreak havoc on stored items. Fluctuations in temperature and humidity can also lead to mold growth, warping of wood, and deterioration of sensitive materials. By opting for a storage facility with climate control, you can mitigate these risks and improve the longevity of your belongings.

Furthermore, climate-controlled units maintain consistent temperature and humidity levels throughout the year. That helps protect your items from the damaging effects of weather extremes, whether scorching summers or freezing winters. With stable conditions, you can rest assured that your stored belongings are safe from environmental harm.


Cleanliness is the first thing you should look for when looking for a storage unit. It reflects the level of professionalism and maintenance you can expect from the company.

Photo: Joshua Coleman/Unsplash

Cleanliness and maintenance
A clean and well-maintained storage unit both maintains the safety of your belongings and reflects the level of care and professionalism the facility management provides. After all, cleanliness is the first thing you notice when you visit. From the moment you step onto the premises, you should feel reassured by the tidiness and orderliness of the surroundings. A clean facility indicates attention to detail and a commitment to providing a safe and hygienic environment for storing your belongings.

So, first look for signs of cleanliness in common areas such as hallways, elevators, and storage units. A well-maintained facility will be free of debris, dust, and clutter, indicating regular cleaning and upkeep by the staff. Beyond cleanliness, maintenance is another important aspect to consider. A well-maintained facility is less likely to experience leaks, pest infestations, or structural damage. Regular maintenance checks also show that the facility remains in optimal condition, minimizing the risk of damage to your stored items.


Cost and fees
Cost is always a major factor when selecting a storage facility, no matter what. After all, understanding the various fees involved helps you make a better decision. Therefore, before committing to a storage unit, you must understand its full cost breakdown. For example, in addition to the monthly rent, there may be additional fees such as security deposits, administrative fees, or insurance charges.

Comparing prices across different facilities can also help you find the best value for your budget. Also, take note of any promotional offers or discounts that may be available, as these can significantly reduce your overall expenses. Furthermore, when evaluating costs, be sure to factor in the storage unit size you need. Larger units typically come with higher rental fees, so choosing a size that accommodates your belongings without exceeding your budget is important.

Keep in mind that costs may vary depending on factors such as location, amenities, and facility reputation. While it may be tempting to opt for the cheapest option, it's necessary to consider the overall quality and security offered by the facility.

Lastly, you need to consider other potential costs you might need to incur, such as packing and transporting your belongings into storage. Here, allseasonmovers.com is a great option. This moving company offers moving, packing, and storage services in the Tri-State Area. And they even have extensive experience with tricky pieces like pianos or similar. Thus, they can create a comprehensive and personalized offer for you.


Customer reviews and reputation
Customer reviews and reputation play a big role in the decision-making process when selecting a storage facility. Hearing from others who have used the service can provide valuable insights and help you make an informed choice. Take the time to inform yourself about your area's best service providers.


Check online reviews for customer service, security and cleanliness for a remote storage facility.

Photo: Liza Summer/PEXELS

Platforms like Google, Yelp, and Facebook are excellent resources for gathering feedback from past and current customers. Pay attention to positive and negative reviews to get a balanced perspective on the facility. Look for common themes or recurring issues mentioned in multiple reviews. In addition to online reviews, consider asking friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations. Personal referrals can provide trusted insights and help you narrow down your options.

From there, consider factors such as customer service, cleanliness, and security when evaluating a storage facility's reputation. A facility with a strong reputation for excellence in these areas will likely provide a positive experience for you.

Keep in mind that while online reviews are valuable, they should be considered alongside other factors such as location, cost, and amenities. As such, trust your instincts and choose a facility that aligns with your needs and priorities.


Making the most of the six things to look out for when renting a storage facility
As you search, keep in mind the six things to look out for when renting a storage facility. Everything from location to costs is important. By prioritizing these factors, you can get the best possible storage experience.




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