PETITION TO GOVERNOR HENRY TO STOP "THE ROD"

We, the undersigned, urge the governor of Oklahoma, Brad Henry (D), to stop the manufacture and sale of "The Rod" by Slide's Manufacturing Company of Eufaula, Oklahoma.  The sole purpose of "The Rod" is to whip babies and children.  Sales of "The Rod" encourage child abuse, and no company should be making a profit from hurting children.

  1074 signatures

Petition started May 22, 2004 - Closed May 5, 2005

NOTE:  Clyde and Twyla Bullock, who were responsible for manufacturing, advertising, and selling "The Rod" to whip babies and children, have decided to close their whip-making business, at least for now.  This petition is closed, unless it is discovered that they have again started manufacturing, advertising, and/or selling whips or other devices to beat babies and children. 



Rod advertisement
 The Rod
Rod ad 2



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1.  Stephen Lawrence, Arlington, MA, USA
  "It's hard to believe that the sale of the these devices is legal in this country.  This should certainly be stopped."

2.  Ramona Merlet, Orlando, FL, USA, Merlet Homeschool
 
3.  Susan Lawrence, Arlington, MA, USA
  "Please stop the manufacture and sale of these horrible whips.  It is absolutely appalling.  Normal-thinking individuals do not believe these whips are 'The means prescribed by God.'  I weep for the babies and children being whipped with 'The Rod' and I believe Jesus does too!'"

4.  Debbie Haskins, Denton, TX, USA
  "As long as we as a society tolerate any kind of hitting of children, for whatever reason, we will continue to have child abuse and the ensuing injuries, disorders and deaths.  Protecting children on every level can only help to produce a kinder, wiser society.   When I am old, I hope our world will be led by humans who have been nurtured and respected in their youths, not by those who have been punished, hurt and filled with anger."

5.  Jackie Holcombe, Morrisville, NC, USA, Homeschooling Mom of Special Needs Child
  "It would be nice if the manufacturer would also recall the whips previously sold."

6.  Cheryl McCoy, Round Rock, TX, USA
  "This has got to be stopped."

7.  Jennifer Riedy, Allentown, PA, USA

8.  Tanya Wynne, Rosharon, TX, USA
  "This is an instrument that if it was used on an animal it would be animal cruelty, but this is now being allowed to be used on defenseless children and it is considered a parent's right.  How sad that an animal has more rights than a child."

9.  Dr. Teresa Whitehurst, Nashville, TN, USA
  "You have a wonderful opportunity as Governor to be a friend of children and an example for parents.  We hope that you will take action immediately to halt the manufacture of child-abuse weapons."

10.  Norm Lee, Thatcher, AZ, USA, Parenting Without Punishing
  "The beating of children is a vestige of our ugly history of childrearing, one I myself suffered as a child in the Thirties.  Every stroke of that 'rod' will be paid for in the trauma suffered by the child.  Striking a child is a cowardly act, one that sentences a child to lifetime suffering.  Anyone in a position to prevent it must do so.  Please shut down the business of these misguided people.  Billions in taxes are already paying for the results, as shown in crime, violence, broken families, mental health services, and job failure."

11.  Karen Murray, Park City, UT, USA, Homeschooling Mom
 
12.  Sue Murdock, Winnipeg, Manitoba, CANADA, mother
  "I think it's sad that people believe they actually have to beat their children into submission.  I believe Jesus weeps every time "The Rod" is used..."

13.  Deirdre Chisholm Stephens, Portland, OR, USA
  "It is hard to accept that in 2004 there are parents who still believe violence is an acceptable part of raising children."

14.  Jennifer Shaw, Olympia, WA, USA, mother
  "The cycle of violence will never stop if people are advertising and selling disgusting things such as "The Rod" and the ideas that go with it."

15.  Sarah Johnson, New York, NY, USA
  "Barbaric and definitely NOT what Jesus would have used."

16.  Crinna Burt, Corvallis, OR, USA, Mother of two
  "This is not what Jesus intended for children."

17.  Keith Lubell, New York, NY, USA, Parent
  "'The Rod' helps to explain some of the bizaare pictures we are seeing out of Abu Gharaib."

18.  Kathleen Wolf, Arlington, MA, USA, RN
  "Dear Gov. Henry, I do not live in your state but this rod is being sold all over the country and is of great concern.  Articles in the magazine in which it is advertised (Home School Digest) recommend the use of a rod for very, very young children.  Here are some direct quotes, 'It is much more effective to keep several rods handy - one in every room - and be ready to administer one or two licks within seconds of the transgression.'  'Those who wait until a child is two or three to start spanking are definitely waiting too long.'  Please help to put a stop to this.  Respectfully, Kathleen Wolf."

19.  Adrianne Weremchuk, New York, NY, USA
  "I'm shocked and appalled that it is legal to sell and use this item to abuse children."

20.  Cindy Bradbury, Fort Wayne, IN, USA, Christians for Nonviolent Parenting
  "So sad."

21.  Leila Yoder, Brunswick, GA, USA
  "It is the duty of the state to protect all members of society, including children, from violence and assault.  The use of this "rod" goes far beyond acceptable discipline or "spanking"--it is assault, pure and simple."

22.  Tom Johnson, Nashville, TN, USA, Parents and Teachers Against Violence in Education (PTAVE)
  "How does aplication of "The Rod" compare to scalding hot water in terms of pain intensity?  A medical doctor's opinion would be welcome."

23.  Sarah Sheehan, Queensland, AUSTRALIA

24.  Juliet Martinez, Chicago, IL, USA
  "This is horrifying!  I am sickened at the thought."

25.  Donna Lomp, Newton, MA, USA, mother of two
  "'The Rod' is barbaric.  Child abuse is illegal.  Please stop it."

26.  Debra Baker, Downington, PA, USA
  "As a Christian and mother of eight children and a grandmother I beg you to do what you can to end the making and marketing of a weapon whose sole purpose is to beat young children.  We are better than this."

27.  Nadine Block, Columbus, OH, USA, Center for Effective Discipline
  "Hitting small children with plastic whips is not only morally abhorrent, it is dangerous to their physical safety.  It's time to get rid of them and to spend the time and effort helping parents with effective, non-violent means of raising children to be caring, responsible, and productive adults."

28.  Thomas E. Sagendorf, Hamilton, IN, USA, Pastor
  "Selling the Rod for adults to whip children is no different, and no less harmful, than selling drugs to children."

29.  Wade K. Meyer, Columbus, OH, USA, President, Orakem, Inc.
  "With so many organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, opposed to corporal punishment, what will it take to educate people?  But, of course, Jesus came 2000 years ago and showed us the way, and look how we still treat each other in this world."

30.  Shannon Rizzo, Belmont, CA, USA
  "The people who manufacture - and purchase these - should be prosecuted for child abuse.  There is no justification for this product being in existence."

31.  Adele Carson, Glendale, CA, USA

32.  Linda Rosa, Loveland, CO, USA, RN

33.  Andrea Bird, Waltham, MA, USA
  "This represents child abuse, pure and simple.  No company should make a profit on children's pain."

34.  Lindsey M. Ondrey Gruen, Dayton, OH, USA, Wright Patterson AFB
  "I am appalled that this company would provide this product as a "Christian" method of discipline.  It is pure and simple child abuse hiding behind misuse of Scripture.  Hitting a child of any age is horrendous and child abuse.  If an adult were to hit another adult with such an object, they would be arrested immediately.  Why is it that parents are being allowed to hit their children with such things and have no repercussions?  This company has no morals and should stop production of such an object immediately."

35.  Rosslyn Kooser, Baltimore, MD, USA, School psychologist
  "Using any kind of whip, "rod", or other implement to physically punish children in any way should be illegal in our civilized country."

36.  Lisa Wilson, Lee's Summit, MO, USA
  "STOP THIS."

37.  Brenda Eells, Lake Arrowhead, CA, USA
  "I think the horror that is "The Rod" speaks for itself.  Please do everything in your power to see that a product made specifically to hit infants and children is removed from the market."

38.  Jake Terpstra, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
  "If a child hits a child we call it aggression.  If a child hits an adult we call it hostility.  If an adult hits an adult we call it a crime.  If an adult hits a child we call it discipline.  The word 'discipline' means 'to teach' and has the same root as 'disciple.'  Can you imagine Jesus hitting children?"

39.  LaVonne Carlson, Ph.D./University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
  "Disgusting!  A country that promotes family values and nonviolence will not censor organizations that sell instruments of torture of little children."

40.  Jesse Wilson, Palo Alto, CA, USA, Senior Executive Management Administrator
  "'Spare the rod, and spare the child,' please.  The beatings within my family have only split the family apart over the years.  Treat others as you would have them treat you."

41.  MaryBeth West, Modesto, CA, USA, educator
  "I'm saddened and amazed that this is acceptable to so many people.  Please shut down this company."

42.  James C. Talbot, Granada Hills, CA, USA, Child Advocate
  "The majority of chld abuse cases involving physical injury to children occur duing acts of physical punishment...ESPECIALLY when weapons are implemented to strike children.  (By legal definition, any object becomes a weapon when used to strike another.)"

43.  Rachel Johnson, Kansas City, MO, USA, Author
  "There are no words to describe the horror and sickness I feel about 'The Rod.'  There is no call EVER to whip a baby."

44.  Al Crowell, San Francisco, CA, USA, Christians for Nonviolent Parenting
  "If this isn't illegal it should be.  California law makes it illegal to hit a child with anything but the open hand.  Even spanking is so old fashioned and dangerous.  Any state or country that allows this form of child torture and calling it loving is completely going in the wrong direction.  We have so many more effective and respectful ways of setting limits for children."

45.  Doyle Weaver, Dallas, TX, USA, Citizens Against Corporal Punishment
  "I still believe there may be a law against this sick, sadistic, money making, evil market of hurting childrens' body and spirit in order to cross the palms of the abusive peddlers with cash.  If no law is on the books, we need to file in court on the grounds of child abuse and the promotion of child pornography.  It is almost like these whipping freaks are standing on the church house steps saying, 'Give me money for this tool to put stripes and bruises on the butts, back and legs of your children and tell them that the pain or agony they feel is "love."'  Sick, sick.  Maybe the real God will chase them away as Jesus did when he found salesmen and peddlers using the church for their deeds.  One thing I know for sure and that is that I would not want to be in their shoes when they stand before God on Judgement Day.  They need to fall on their knees and repent before it is too late."

46.  Lorena Bowen, Dallas, TX, USA
  "We should report anyone we know who has used this rod to the Child Protective Services.  Why would any normal human being pay money for something to hit a child with?  They must already be in an abusive state of mind when they order it.  We must convince Child Protective Services that the very act of paying money for something to hit a child with is enough to warrant an investigation.  If CPS refuses to investigate, we must hold them responsible when children are injured with this weapon."

47.  Heather A. Rodriguez, Seattle, WA, USA
  "1) The very idea of selling child abuse in a "cute little package" is disgusting to me.  2) Saying it is the way of God is only adding insult to injury.  Spare the rod in the real context of the bible is not talking about something to beat your children with!!!  It is a reference to guidance (often illustrated by the Shepherd's Crook) which is used for herding and guiding sheep or nudging them in the right direction.  NOT BEATING THEM!!!!  3) Parents are their childrens' first role models; hitting teaches hitting; children can't think like adults therefore can't understand the difference.

48.  Sharon McDonald, Hueytown, AL, USA
  "I am honestly speechless that such an item is available."
 
49.  Robert McDonald, Hueytown, AL, USA

50.  Nancy vonBargen, Norman, OK, USA

51.  Jan Hunt, Sunriver, OR, USA, Natural Child Project
  "All children behave as well as they are treated, and deserve to learn compassion by example."

52.  Sophia Sayigh, Arlington, MA, USA

53.  Madeleine Y. Gomez, Ph.D., Evanston, IL, USA, President, PsycHealth, Ltd.
  " Used against an adult, this would qualify as a deadly weapon - children deserve the same rights to protection from violence as are afforded the rest of us."

54.  Janet OBrien, Evanston, IL, USA, Administrator, PsycHealth, Ltd.
  "This is not what Jesus would want!"

55.  Claudette T. Silas, Maple Grove, MN, USA
  "This kind of treatment is outrageous!"

56.  Robin Bruscato, Chicago, IL, USA, New Bridge International Learning Center
  "Shocking!  Please find my support to ban this instrument of torture of children."

57.  Dorothy M. Neddermeyer, PhD, Phoenix, AZ, USA, Executive Director
  "Thank you for having the courage to speak against this deplorable product.  It is a known fact that hitting a child causes damage to mind, body and spirit."

58.  Kristi Hanson, Elgin, IL, USA

59.  Pat LaCocque, Milwaukee, WI, USA, Greenfield School
  "This is barbaric.  We must teach peaceful, non-violent resolution of problems.  The "ROD" encourages a barbaric way of dealing with children's behavior."

60.  Francine Mojica, Evanston, IL, USA

61.  Susan Wendelborg, Evanston, IL, USA, Case Manager, PsycHealth Ltd.
"Please take the only appropriate action and ban this product."

62.  Ernest Zambrano, Evanston, IL, USA, Comptroller/PsycHealth, Ltd.
  "It is very disturbing that in our society there are people who believe that violently hitting a child is acceptable.  Please stop the manufacture of 'The Rod.'"

63.  Israel Centron, Evanston, IL, USA, PsycHealth, Ltd.

64.  Shivan Mehta, Evanston, IL, USA, Provider Relations, PsycHealth, Ltd.

65.  Seth Ebeling, Fort Eustis, VA, USA, US Army
  "The rod is sick, stop hurting children and start loving them!"

66.  Daniel M. Potter, MS, Chicago, IL, USA, President, Potter Center for Development
  "This is absolutely outrageous."

67.  Jennifer Simmons, Springville, UT, USA
  "What a sick and disgusting tool of abuse.  Used against adults, the user would be prosecuted.  Jesus would never NEVER hit a child (or an adult, for that matter).

68.  Katie M. Jones, Chicago, IL, USA, Coldwell Banker Residential
  "I cannot believe such an item is being produced in this day and age."

69.  Dr. Charles L. Kyle, Chicago, IL, USA, Principal, H.B. Stowe Fine and Performing Academy
  "I strongly oppose any form of corporal punishment or violence against children."

70.  Ren Allen, Pensacola, FL, USA, LIFE unschooling support group
  "No matter what your religious or spiritual beliefs, it ought to be appalling to all of us that children are treated as lesser beings.  Hitting of any kind needs to END today!"

71.  Melanie Walenciak, Tulsa, OK, USA
  "That someone has actually figured a way to profit from the beating of a child.... well, it just breaks my heart.  We cannot let this continue.  This is not the way the biblical rod was used!"

72.  Doris N. Ayala, LFI, Chicago, IL, USA
  "It would be wise for people to begin to consider the effects of child abuse on our children.  Using the rod is definitely a form of child abuse."

73.  Milva DcDonald, Medford, MA, USA

74.  Christina Croft, Clearwater, FL, USA, Youth Director
  "Is this thing for real?  I just can't imagine the abusive parent that would use such a horrible thing."

75.  Carol Visser, Martin, MI, USA, Resource Families of Michigan
  "I have fostered children for 21 years without having to resort to corporal punishment.  Psalm 23 states "thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me" - referring to being led and guided by God's rod and staff - not beaten by them."

76.  Lisa-Marie Parsons, USA

77.  Jordan Riak, Alamo, CA, USA, Executive Director, Parents and Teachers Against Violence in Education
  "I see no difference whatsoever between those who produce, promote and distribute instruments of child torture and those who produce, promote and distribute child pornography."

78.  Christie Smith, Garner, NC, USA
  "No child, or even DOG for that matter, should be subjected to this kind of treatment!"

79.  Cheryl Shoults, Arden, NC, USA
  "'Training' is for dogs.  Actually, dogs get better treatment in this country than many children.  It is time for us to treat human children with dignity and respect.  Please obtain a list of everyone who has bought this implement of torture and have them investigated for child abuse.  Then arrest the manufacturers for aiding and abetting the crimes."

80.  Steve Coe, Edmonton, Alberta, CANADA
  "This is despicable.  If you hit an adult with such a weapon (which is what this is) you would be charged with assault.  Anyone using this device on a child must be psychologically damaged."

81.  Laurie A. Couture, M.Ed., Exeter, NH, USA, ChildAdvocate.org
  "Corporal punishment is barbaric, draconian and the antithesis to Jesus' teachings of love and non-violence.  Anyone who calls themselves non-violent, yet assaults chilren under the guise of 'discipline' is a hypocrite."

82.  Don Fisher, Carson, WA, USA

83.  Ann Lahrson Fisher, Carson, WA, USA
  "All children deserve loving guidance and patient direction, not whippings."

84.  Kay Brick, Redmond, WA, USA, Concerned Parent
  "If we want society to become less violent, we must start with our youngest members."

85.  Donna Skiba, RN, Westchester, IL, USA
  "Jesus teaches love not torture.  We must stop violence in our homes first then peace in the world will follow."

86.  James Berkery, Berkeley Heights, NJ, USA, CIO
  "I thought this product was a joke.  There are plenty of sick people in the world many of which, if not 'all' were abused.  Brad Henry - if your state allows such a device to be sold you are as culpable as the manufacturer, distributer and advertisers that are selling such an idiotic device."

87.  Maria Simmons, Plantation, FL, USA
  "SICK"

88.  Pamela Miller, Frederick, MD, USA, Parent devoted to non-violence
  "To date, no evidence has been discovered that suggests children benefit from corporal punishment.  Mountains of evidence exists, however, indicating that corporal punishment hurts children and all of society.  Many people don't believe the research.  Why?  People used to believe the earth was flat and cigarettes weren't harmful too.  Research is our best tool so believe it."

89.  Margaret Goldstein, Jacksonville, FL, USA
  "'The Rod' has nothing to do with sensible child rearing.  It is an instrument of cruelty and must be banned.  Any parent using 'The Rod' should be arrested on the spot, and I don't care if they have 'Reverend' preceding their name."

90.  Karla Smith, M.A., Alamo, CA, USA, Educational therapist
  "It's a shame that this petition is even necessary.  Shame on those who made it so."

91.  Mary L. Burke, RN, BSN, LBSW, Lisbon, IA, USA
  "Allowing this company to continue to produce and market these archaic torture devices is comopletely untenable.  Frightening as it is that there is enough of a market for them to even begin to stay in business, it is even more frightening that it is sanctioned by law.  Would we tolerate it if it were advertised in order to train our dogs?  Our wives?  NONSENSE."

92.  Jim Sutton, Hemlock, NY, USA, On The Road Youth Ministry

93. & 94.  Angel Lee and Glen Lee, AK, USA
  "Jesus wouldn't hit a child; why would anyone else?"

95.  Santash Kulkarni, WE, Pune, Maharashtra, INDIA
  "Immediate steps are needed to stop such manufacturing companies who promote child abuse.  I am surprised how Govt. is silent on this.  I suggest that people should gather and arrange a Rally to the Slide's works/governor's office to make an appeal to the owner/governor to stop this manufacturing immediately."

96.  Alicia Gauthier, Saint Clair, MI, USA
  "Anyone who allows this product to be sold, used, or even legal--they may as well be abusing children themselves.  It's time to put a stop to this!"

97.  Anthony Neal Schneider, Sr., Universal City, TX, USA, Father of 2 of God's Miracles in the Circle of Life

98.  Hal Albert Smith, Danville, PA, USA, BS Economics Bloomsburg University
  "Please do not allow hitting babies with vicious objects."

99.  Robin Grille, Sydney, NSW, AUSTRALIA, Psychologist
  "I am totally disgusted.  How dare these people sell this instrument of torture.  They are making money from child abuse."

100. Alice Sheehan, Boca Raton, FL, USA, Mom
  "I think it's deplorable.  Children are our future.  What right does anyone have to strike another person's child?  My son was hit by his music teacher and I'm still trying to get justice for him.  That teacher still works at the school and now my kids have to go to a new school.  It's not right for anyone to hit our kids."

101. Herve Colas, Evreux, FRANCE, Nospank.org regular reader
  "Disgusting, cruel, sadistical, stupid, IQ = 0...  This is what this weapon makes me think about the ones who sell it and the ones who use it."

102. Magen Smalley, St. Clair, MI, USA
  "Child abuse is wrong!"

103. Brent Turville, Port Stanley, Ontario, CANADA
  "A ROD TO BEAT CHILDREN!!  When did child abuse become legal??  If you beat a cat or dog with this THING you would go to JAIL.  Also, you can't beat inmates in a jail with this horrible whip!!   GIVE....ME....A.....BREAK!"

104. Lynne H. Schultz, Gainesville, FL, USA, Earthward (http://earthward.org)
  "If you have to use a weapon, it's no longer "spanking" as most people understand the term.  The Rod IS a weapon made specifically for beating children in order to cause physical pain.  Unfortunately, the children who would be most harmed by this product do not have the power to complain, and abusive parents almost never report their own abuse."

105. Robert Dentan, Buffalo, NY, USA, Professor, State University of NY
  "I've spent my life studying the behavior this sort of 'discipline' produces.  You get very timid and/or very violent adults, prone to authoritarian and antidemocratic politics--and often to child and spousal abuse.  The last tendency comes because, whatever you say to the kids, they all learn that it's Do we want to teach it's OK for a large person who believes in his/her own righteousness to hurt a small one, badly?  That's a bad lesson for citizens, and is a legitimate matter for the state to concern itself with.  For which there are many more effective alternatives."

106. Laura Sheppard, San Diego, CA, USA
 
107. Casimiro Gauthier, Clermont, France
  "I know what many american people think of France, but still, in my country, this 'Rod' would be a national scandal and most likely prohibited.  And I don't think our kids are less well-balanced.  There's a huge difference between education and child abuse.  'The Rod' belongs to the second category."

108.  Alex Cooke, Davis, CA, USA
  "I find it hugely offensive to my Christian faith that 'The Rod' is being sold with reference to the Bible."

109. Roy Jacobs, Swatara Tw., Steelton, PA, USA
  "Dear Governor Henry,
Word of your progressive ways have reached far around the country, even here in Pennsylvania.  I realize that in a society of free enterprise, the role of government is llimited.  However there are times when government should take a stand, especially when it involves the welfare of children.  Using 'rods' on children is abuse, and government must fight abuse.  Our nation became upset over the mistreating of prisonersin Iraq, who are our enemies.  So I can't imagine the American people accepting 'rods' for children's behinds.  Please do what you can to stop this craziness.  As a Christian, I am apalled at the way the Bible is being used to promote child abuse."

110. James W. Prescott, Ph.D., Lansing, NY, USA, Institute of Humanistic Science
  "See http://www.violence.de  http://www.ttfuture.org/Prescott"

111. Lorrie L. Shenenberger, Leola, PA, USA, Lancaster County Unschoolers
  "This is sickening and it must be stopped!!"

112. Crystal Blackwell, Covington, GA, USA
  "This is horrible!  We should take up child abuse charges against the schools that use this and the parents that condone it!"

113. Sean Blackwell, Conyers, GA, USA
  "This should be considered promotion of child abuse.  'Spare the rod, spoil the child', much like many passages of the Bible, is METAPHOR.  It means that a child without discipline will not grow to accept responsibility, not to actually use a rod for discipline."

114. R. Morrow, Pocatello, ID, USA
  "I looked this up on urbanlegends.com before coming to this site -- I can't believe that someone would manufacture, advertise and sell such a thing.  This is absolutely disgusting."

115. Amanda Gauthier-Parker, Bakersfield, CA, USA
  "It breaks my heart that there are parents who believe the God of Love wants them to physically hurt their children.  Whatever their religious intentions, this is still child abuse."

116. Fran Morris, Oklahoma City, OK, USA, Oklahomans Opposed to Corporal Punishment
  "What an embarrassment to Oklahoma to be seen around the world as a place that supports such disgraceful behavior toward children."

117. Katrina Flaws, Murphy, NC, USA, mother of two
  "This is an absurd attempt at selfish parenting - this really makes me sick to my stomach to think about - some people shouldn't be blessed with children."

118. & 119. Kelly and David Pollard, GA, USA

120. Chris Henden, Luton, Beds, ENGLAND, Psychotherapist
  "Hard to be brief on this one, but one thought is to ask how much love and respect would an adult feel if a child were to attach them with 'The Rod.'  Also it seems bizarre that anybody could believe that violating another being could be a good thing.  I would love to engage with anybody who has this viewpoint.  But the reality is that this is something that is re-enacted down generations without due thought and reflection."

121. Elizabeth Baer, Baltimore, MD, USA, homeschooling mom
  "This ad is the reason I won't subscribe to Home School Digest."

122. Madeline Rains, Mansfield, GA, USA
  "I find it horrifying that one can hit a child and expect their child not to be violent themselves; not to mention using a torture device on a child!"

123. Samantha Paquette, St. Clair, MI, USA

124. Lisa Olschewske, Cartersville, GA, USA
  "HMM the shepherds used the 'rod' to guide their sheep....not beat them with it.  They loved their sheep.  As we LOVE our children."

125. Laura Smith, Arlington, MA, USA, parent and psychotherapist
  "I belive God wants us to use our intellect and our love for our children to find more creative and effective ways of setting limits with our children than methods which inspire anger and set a poor example of how to manage disagreements."

126. Helen Megennis, Amawalk, NY, USA

127. Randy Cox, LCSW, Little Rock, AR, USA, Director NeverHitAChild.org

128. Doug Brown, Arlington, VA, USA
  "As a Child Protective Services' professional I see the physical and emotional injuries inflicted on children by use of such weapons.  As a Christian I cringe at the thought of this being advertised as consistent with God's will for our children.  Thank you for your vocal disapproval of this, and may I hope the local United Methodist Chruch, which has recently recommended the refrainment of corporal punishment, gets involved in this cause."

129. Kay Russell Lauffer, Hendersonville, NC, USA
  "This brings tears to my eyes as a grandmother of 6 beautiful babies."

130. Ronald Goldman, Brookline, MA, USA

131. Chuck Culbane, Buffalo, NY, USA, Western New York Peace Center
  "Fear and punishment are not instruments of instruction, but of destruction, destruction of trust and communication.  Anna Freud said the roots of aggression can be found in violations of trust.  To beat children may produce obedience in the short term, but at the cost of love and care in the long term.  Children often adopt their parents' actions and philosophies.  Teach the little ones patience and kindness, not harshness bordering on brutality.  We should have learned that lesson by now."

132. J. Valentino, Ft. Hood, TX, USA
  "I think the rod is an appalling and horrible thing to use on a child and then to use God's will as a justifiable reason to use it!"

133. Michelle Eurgatis, Melbourne, FL, USA

134. Jennifer Malicher, New Providence, NJ, USA

135. Nicholas Tornaritis, Groton, MA, USA

136. Jeff Idelson, Walnut Creek, CA, USA, Psychotherapist/College Instructor
  "'Christians' and other advocates of biblical references to 'disciplining' children conveniently ignore other biblical commands, such as killing disrespectful children, selling daughters, owning slaves, and so forth.  Dysfunction is dysfunction, no matter how it is accessorized or referenced biblically."

137. Sondra McCoy, Covington, GA, USA
  "This has the potential to injure children of all ages."

138. Tanya James, Summerville, SC, USA, Mother

139. Nancy Collins, Arlington, MA, USA

140. Christina Garner, Atlanta, GA, USA
  "This is disgusting!!!"

141. Lillian Jones, Sebastopol, CA, USA
  "I cannot even manage to reduce my feelings on this matter into mere words - it's self evident that such a device should not be legal."

142. Susan J. Lee, Psy.D., Arlington, MA, USA, Clinical psychologist
  "Child abuse damages the spirit of children even more than their bodies and can require a lifetime of work to heal.  If we can prevent the damage, we will build a healthier world."

143. Dr. Carolyn Newberger, Boston, MA, USA, Children's Hospital
  "There is now ample evidence that hitting children teaches them the lesson that hitting others is acceptable, with the consequence that children that receive corporal punishment are more likely to be violent against others.  Please don't enable the use of an instrument that is used for hitting children.  Thank you, Dr. Carolyn Newberger"

144. Shannon Barney, Tulsa, OK, USA
  "Horrifying!"

145. Jami Mclean, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
  "What a disgusting concept.  :(   "

146. Kathryn Elder, Oxford, GA, USA, Teacher

147. Cheryl O'Connor, Bedford, MA, USA
  "Children are meant to be molded, not scolded... and certainly not ever hit with anything."

148. Jennifer Walenciak Stryker, Roseville, MI, USA
  "Thanks horrible.  I can't believe they got that licensed to market that.  I was abused when I was a kid, and I thought my Dad's leather belt was sufficient enough.  Sincerely, Jennifer W. Stryker  Keep the Peace going!"

149. Ron Houston, Amherst, NY, USA
  "Please stop promoting violence on our innocent ones."

150. Jason P. Waite, Carthage, IL, USA
  "How would they (the child abusers that made these weapons) feel if someone twice their size beat them with 'The Rod'.  PLEASE, stop the madness!  Ban the damed things!"

151. James Whitlock, Buffalo, NY, USA
  "When parents set examples with 'The Rod,' why are we so surprised about the barbarities practiced by our troops in the middle east?"

152. Susan Keller, Baldwinsville, NY, USA
  "This device would be cruel for animal use, let alone to indulge lazy human parents!  This product exemplifies a sad trend of parents reneging on their responsibility to embrace the blessing of children from God.  Common sense and compassion should outweigh convenience.  Parenting is not convenient, and children are NOT wild animals or automatons, and should not be treated as such.  If we want a kinder, gentler country, we need to start by exemplifying such behavior with our children, our future leaders and decision makers."

153. Janet Rosenbury, Sioux City, IA, USA, Volunteer
  "Let's stop 'The Rod' as quickly as possible.  It is hard to believe that it is being manufactured."

154. Gene Hill, Sioux City, IA, USA, Parent
  "I just finished the Sioux City Police Department's Citizens' Academy.  We saw graphic pictures of children who were victims of beatings.  It's bad enough that adults have to abuse children physically, but to think that there are weapons for sale to aid and abet them is appalling.  Please, Governor, do what you can to halt the sale of these weapons of child destruction."

155. Doug Swan, Bronson, IA, USA, Treasurer, CHILD Inc.
  "As governor talk to this man and urge him to stop.  Honestly he even wants a soft cushion for the adult's hand while brutalizing the child!  Couldn't this weapon leave easily detected welts and bruises on the child?  Jesus taught (disciplined) by word and example.  Plead this company to stop."

156. Rachel Keck, Muskogee, OK, USA
  "I cannot imagine Jesus, who spoke very highly of children, approving of such a cruel device for torture.  He has already taken the corporal punishment for everyone's sins (including children).  People who approve of something like this makes it easy for me to see why there is so much violence in the world!"

157. Patrick Farenga, Medford, MA, USA, President Holt Associates Inc.

158. Rachel Hyde, Arlington, MA, USA
  "How can anyone possibly imagine that beating a child could remotely be considered 'parenting in Jesus' footsteps'??!  What an insult to Jesus, that gentle lover of children!"

159. Faith Ferguson, Lexington, MA, USA
  "This is horrible.  It's grotesque.  What kind of person would use an instrument on a child?  Please make them illegal."

160. Brent Ramalli, Acton, MA, USA

161. Tonya, Long Beach, CA, USA
   "Disgusting and absurd.  How sick can people get."

162. Teresa Kander, Fairborn, OH, USA
   "Please stop the manufacture and sales of an item which encourages child abuse.  Thank you!"

163. Rosemary Squires, Melrose, MA, USA
  "It is obvious that these people are misguided and on some kind of control trip.  Luckily for me, I do not have a difficult child, but perhaps that is because I understand that violence just teaches, and leads to, more violence."

164. Therese J. Sundberg, Gothenburg, SWEDEN
  "'See that you do not look down on one of these little ones.  For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven.'"

165. Lisa, Swainsboro, GA, USA
  "My husband and I are Christians and do believe the scriptures teach us to guide our children with a 'rod' but not this kind of rod!  A shepherd leads his sheep and protects them from danger and this is what the rod is for.  It is not used to abuse and bruise their little bodies.  I know first hand about this so called 'rod' because my husband bought one many years ago.  When it arrived I was horrified by it and I told my husband it would not be used on our children.  I got rid of it and I pray everyone who ever bought one will do the same."

166. Maritha Jingnert, Gothenburg, SWEDEN
  "Violence breeds violence."

167. Katherine Shorey Herold, Arlington, MA, USA
 
168. Nicholas Herold, Arlington, MA, USA

169. Sune Sundberg, Gothenburg, SWEDEN
  "Love has nothing to do with fear!"

170. Tiffany Brown, Newfield, NY, USA, Mother
  "To reduce all my thoughts & feelings about this weapon to a mere few words is impossible....  Horribly horrifying is about all it comes down to.  Child maltreatment is illegal & beating a child is maltreatment!"

171. Robert E. Fathman, Ph.D., Dublin, OH, USA, President, National Coalition to Abolish Corporal Punishment in Schools
  "The purpose of this weapon is nothing other than to hurt children.  It 'works' by causing deliberate pain.  There is simply no other purpose to which this is put, and the manufacturer would agree with this statement.  I urge you to do all in your power to make your state unwelcoming to such a sleazy business."

172. Yvonne Parma, MEd, LMHC, Medford, MA, USA
  "My 30 years experience as a psychotherapist has shown over and over again, that hitting children results in emotional pain that seriously compromises the mental health of these abuse victims."

173. Rita Swan, Sioux City, IA, USA, President, Children's Healthcare Is a Legal Duty
  "How barbaric!"

174. Elizabeth Abbott, Norfolk, VA, USA
  "Heinous instrument.  We need more love, patience, and understanding - not violence."

175. Regina Till, St. Louis, MO, USA
  "The fact that there are buyers of these instruments is horrifying enough, but to live in a 'civilized' society where such instruments are sold legally, for the purposes stated in the advertisement, equates the stage of childhool as inferior even to that of animals.  The fourteenth amendment of our constitution put an end to slavery among adult citizens of the U.S.  It is clear that those rights need to be extended to children.  Until then, such instruments of subjugation should never be made available or encouraged in any way.  Stop the advertisements, sale and manufacture of The Rod."

176. Kandy Johnson, Pflugerville, TX, USA, Homeschool Mom
  "We have to stop the production and sale of this horrible invention!  This is purely for the sick satisfaction of child abusers!"

177. Malin, Gothemburg, SWEDEN

178. Kenneth Jansson, Alingsas, SWEDEN
  "Totally fu**ed up...."

179. Kari Williams, Frankfort, KY, USA, homeschooling mom

180. Tim McLarnan, Richmond, IN, USA
  "Surely further comment is unnecessary."

181. Abigail Green, Cambridge, MA, USA, Stand For Children
   "This is absolutely disgusting.  The idea that children aren't *legally* safe in their own homes is terrifying.  Something must be done."

182. Stephanie Babcock, White Hall, MD, USA
  "This device is horrid, and can definitely cause severe injuries in the hands of someone who misguidedly believes they are doing as 'God' prescribes.  Additionally, I believe the Greek meaning of the word discipline, as used in the bible, means 'to train,' and the rod was a device used to GUIDE sheep not beat them.  I believe many Judeo/Christian religious followers who use the bible as their main source of religious information misinterpret such verses to asume God wants them to beat or even spank their children.  I don't think any 'God' would ever advocate such physical means.  It's an insult to 'God' to assume that his most wondrous creation (people) need such dense and insensitive directing.  That's man using man's limited mind to attempt to understand 'God,' by treating him (God) as if he has the physical and mental limitations of those of us here on this physical plane."

183. Ed Baird, Farmington, PA, USA
  "This is completely outrageous!"

184. Desiree McMurry, Franklin, MO, USA
  "I wonder if the individuals using this against kids would want to be hit with it?  My guess would be a definite 'No'."

185. Mary McCarthy, Yacolt, WA, USA, Mom
  "Been trying to get this one put out of business ever since I saw the first ad several years ago.  Really makes your state look bad, as an advocate of whipping infants and children is permitted to operate without anyone stepping forward and putting a stop to it.  Or is whipping infants and children acceptable in OK?"

186. Chrissie Johnson, Chickasha, OK, USA, homeschooler
  "I do not condone spanking.  There are other ways to deal with children."

187. Meleasa Carley, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
  "The Bible is very clear that the 'rod of discipline' should be used on our children however discipline means training, teaching, guiding, correcting - not punishment and certainly not hitting a child with something as barbaric as this thing.  Governor, please listen to us and get this rod off the market and quick!"

188. Nadine Tilbury, Lafayette, LA, USA
  "Hitting children with an implement is a dangerous practice.  These implements are designed specifically for inflicting pain on small children.  The mere fact that this product exists endorses child abuse.  Children should be disciplined with love and gentleness, not with bodily harm."

189. Edwin H. Peart, Winnipeg, Manitoba, CANADA, Concerned Christian
  "Jesus Christ never told us to use corporal punishment on children.  Let's start following him instead of the advice of King Solomon.  The Jews don't go running to the Old Testament to justify hitting their children and neither should Christians."

190. Dianne Nickson, St. Thomas, Ontario, CANADA
  "This is a weapon, and using this is assault on the individual.  If you used this on an adult you would go to jail...why is it not assault when you use it on a child?  Don't fool yourselves it is assault.  It is criminal."

191. Jennifer Hall, Roseville, CA, USA

192. Donna Lamerson, Stone Ridge, NY, USA

193. Robin Saunders, VA, USA

194. Shawn Stewart-Maddox, Tulsa, OK, USA, Home educator

195. Cheryl Wheeler, Tulsa, OK, USA

196. Kris Schueren, Tulsa, OK, USA

197. AnnMarie Gillilan, Burlington, VT, USA, Homeschooling mom
  "I'm sick to my stomach after viewing the picture of the hand holding the rod let alone the thought of someone using it to abuse a child.  Please stop this."

198. Deanne Rosselli, Stuart, FL, USA, Homeschooling mother
  "Child abuse is illegal, and so sale of instruments to implement it should be illegal as well."

199. Shay Seaborne, VA, USA
  "Child abuse, pure and simple."

200. Jane Stafford, Ashburn, VA, USA, Homeschooling Mother
  "Being a parent isn't easy.  Life changes drastically once you hold your first baby in your arms.  And from then on you take one step at a time, learning (often through mistake) with each 'stage' how to raise your child to be a responsible, caring, etc. person.  A person you enjoy having around, when you grow older.  This ROD is a heartbreaking weapon, which adds nothing to the growth of a child.  On the contrary, it teaches that it is alright to hurt a weaker being.  Dear Governor, please break the cycle of violence and make this form of abvious child abuse illegal.  You will contribute greatly to the future of this wonderful country."

201. Prudence Mathews, Front Royal, VA, USA
  "The inventor of the 'rod' should be beaten to the pulp with it."

202. Jessica C. Martin, Norfolk, VA, USA
  "This is an incredibly brutal, abusive instrument.  Children who are abused grow up to be abusive to others.  Please stop the manufacture of this product!"

203. Amy Wilson, VA, USA
  "This is a product which, when used as intended by its manufacturer, causes physical injury and psychological damage.  Its manufacturers advocate physical assault on minors.  From a legal standpoint along, this cannot be allowed to continue -- someone with legal standing needs to sue and shut them down.  Seems like an appropriate task for a state attorney general.  But in the meantime, children and their families suffer.  Do it NOW!"

204. Karen S. McCoy, Tulsa, OK, USA, R.N. - The Children's Hospital at St. Francis
  "I am absolutely APPALLED that greed-driven individuals can market and profit from beating children, in the name of GOD no less!  What a blight on the State of Oklahoma.  Rest assured, those of us who TRULY love children will call just as much attention to this as we possibly can until the marketing of this device goes down the sewer where it belongs."

205. Brandy Bergentsock, Newport News, VA, USA
  "This is disgusting.  Unless you would like to be punished with this thing, then don't punish a child with with it.  If another adult hit me with 'the rod', it would be assault, and it's not different if you hit a child!!  Stop the sale of this abusive item."

206. Mary C. Spinks, Woodbridge, VA, USA, BS, Homeschooler
  "Horrible, pitiful, ridiculous, and embarrassing.  It's hard to believe that there are parents, my contemporaries, so ignorant as to purchase and use the 'rod'."

207. Barbara Jermstad, Hampton, VA, USA
  "Shepherds in the Bible used a rod to gently guide their animals (sheep).  NOT BEAT THEM!"

208. Pat Leduc, Warwick, RI, USA, christian unschooling parent
  "To advocate child abuse in a magazine and then try to put the reasoning for it on God, is completely unacceptable and disgusting.  Please stop the sale of this."

209. Maryanne Sango Shanley, Clarks Summit, PA, USA
  "Those ads are absolutely sickening.  Words fail me."

210. Jolynne G. Bockman, Fairmont, MN, USA
  "This is absolutely sick.  Stop these monsters from marketing such a device."

211. Heidi A. Sanders, USA
  "Unbelievable!  I am at a loss for words that such a thing even exists!"

212. Brenda Johnson, Rapid City, SD, USA
 
213. Maureen Keith, Dayville, CT, USA
  "I'm just shaking my head..."

214. Tina Clark, RN, Valdosta, GA, USA
  "Discipline means 'to teach'.  Children are God's gift to us to look over and protect not to hit.  We are here to teach and nurture our children not to TRAIN them!"

215. Kelly Wright, Greenwood, IN, USA, Southside Secular Homeschoolers
  "The ad's implication that a rod is somehow better than a spoon or belt is ridiculous!  They are all instruments of abuse used to humiliate and hurt children that can't protect themselves."

216. Kathleen A. Bruner, Whiteland, IN, USA, Christian mother/grandma
  "Using an instrument of punishment on a child is blatant child abuse and is NOT scriptural.  The 'rod' of the Christian Bible is symbolic of God's discipline (which means to disciple or teach)."

217. Naomi Carder, Oxford, NC, USA
  "As a child that grew up in fear of 'spanking' from my mother and her 'board of education', I am appalled that an item like this is for sale.  I don't care what you hit a child with...the child still knows they are being hit by their parent and the parent has taught the child that hitting someone smaller than you is the correct way of resolving an issue (i.e.: how to get your way).  Please stop the sale of this abusive product.  Thank you."

218. Mary Quantrall, Greenwood, IN, USA, Empowerment Strategies
  "No excuse for 'The Rod.'  Modern child-rearing techniques utilize strategies which do not, as the rod will, result in the victims growing up to become the abusers."

219. Jennifer Casselberry, Chicago, IL, USA
  "Please do not allow this to be sold to parents and guardians who can cause irreparable harm to children."

220. Karen Poston, Mililani, HI, USA

221. Abigail Mastin, Pontiac, IL, USA
  "Stop the Rod."

222. Andi Pierce, Chesterton, IN, USA

223. Reba Boyd Wooden, Greenwood, IN, USA, Humanist Friendship Group of Central Indiana
  "Hitting children is bad but doing it in the name of religion is even worse."

224. Max Poston, Mililani, HI, USA

225. Natalie Haraway, Jenks, OK, USA

226. Joseph Woodard, Arlington, TX, USA
  "The idea of using this device, which is similar in diameter and flexibility to a fiberglass fishing rod, on any child, including toddlers (per the manufacturer's 'instruction brochure') is incomprehensible."

227. Susan Nunn, Erie County, PA, USA
  "What would the public reaction be if a person sold a hitting instrument for men to 'train' their wives?  There would be outrage.  It is too bad that children are overlooked when we talk about 'domestic violence.'  The harm of hitting children is unfortunately denied by many, because facing it would mean realizing the extent of their own buried rage at being hit by the ones who were supposed to love and protect them.  Any time a human being is hit by another, there is anger involved in the response.  Yet children are not allowed toexpress anger toward a parent, and most keep it from their conscious minds, because they are so dependent on their parents for their survival.  So this rage is submerged, and returns later in other forms:  depression, substance abuse, sexual problems, compulsive eating, masochistic behaviors, or violence toward others.  If we want to end violence in our society, we must start in our childrearing practices.  The sale of this 'rod' should be banned and any other similar tool."

228. Mary Keck, Muskogee, OK, USA, student
  "This device should not be allowed in a country that is considered 'civilized'."

229. David Keck, Muskogee, OK, USA, USA, student
  "It gives Oklahoma a bad name since it's manufactured in Eufaula.  Using the Bible to justify such means of child abuse is outrageous!!"

230. Don Cummings, Greenwood, IN, USA
  "Once again, religion is used to justify violence."

231. Jennifer Parr, Waynesboro, VA, USA, Homeschooling Mom
  "This product makes me ill.  I cannot believe that a torture device of this kind is being sold in the United States.  The people who are manufacturing and selling it, as well as the consumers, ought to be jailed for abuse."

232. Sabrina Alexander, Surprise, AZ, USA

233. Linda Levine, Atlanta, GA, USA, Homeschooling mother
  "Another signer has already said it best: "It is the duty of the state to protect all members of society, including children, from violence and assault.  The use of this 'rod' goes far beyond accedptable discipline or 'spanking'--it is assault (and therefore illegal), pure and simple."

234. Lacy Epstein, Atlanta, GA, USA
  "The Rod is sick and should not be sold to promote child abuse.  Beating chldren should hold the same contempt that child pornography does.  Both abuse babies and children."

235. Rev. Marilyn Washburn, MD, MDiv, PhD, MPH, Avondale Estates, GA, USA
  "What a terrible terrible twisting of the Gospel and of Scripture!"

236. Mitzie Goldman, Atlanta, GA, USA
  "I believe that this teaches our children that violence is a means of power and a way to get what they want or to get their point across.  This is a bad thing!!"

237. & 238. John and Christy Brothers, Alpharetta, GA, USA

239. Lily Green, Alpharetta, GA, USA

240. Romana Cozzolino, Marietta, GA, USA, Homeschool parent
  "It's apalling."

241. Holger Hagemann, Brunsbuettel, GERMANY, Pastor/Lutheran Church

242. Desiree Ferland, Kissimmee, FL, USA
  "This is an outrage!  To allow this to be advertised and sold for the intent they perpetrate should be punishable by jail!"

243. Kathleen Toomey, Kissimmee, FL, USA
  "Close this store down.  Clean their shelves of such items.  Toss them in jail.  Stop them!"

244. Anna Schuette, Doraville, GA, USA

245. Tina, Massapequa, NY, USA
  "Unbelievably appalling."

246. Kate Corkern, Lafayette, LA, USA, Homeschooling mother

247. Carrie Landry, Berwick, LA, USA
  "This is outrageous.  I cannot believe that company.  Children are innocent and only repeat what they have learned and have been taught.  I don't see them making ADULT ***mistake*** rods.  Those poor babies and children.  I pray that god will put his hand on them and keep them safe from demonic ideas that are advertised."

248. Ann McDavitt, Beech Grove, Indiana, USA, Human Mother
  "How unbelievably sad that this weapon could even remotely be associated with God's love.  Why do people believe that hurting and humiliating another human being would make that person feel and behave any better?"

249. Maurine Elbert, Wauconda, IL, USA

250. Elizabeth Gilchrist, Decatur, GA, USA
  "Encouraging physical abuse is inexcusable.  There should not be a product advertised to carry out parent's anger at their children."

251. Linda Villatoro, Van Nuys, CA, USA
  "This item is being marketed as a tool for the training of babies and young children.  The instructions which come with The Rod clearly teach parents to use it to whip their children.  If this is not illegal, it should be."

252. Michelle Williams, Holiday Island, AR, USA
  "We don't allow adults to hit one another & children deserve at least the same protection (if not more).  Labeling something discipline doesn't change the fact that it's hitting.  This 'tool' is disgraceful."

253. Kris Vaitkus, Rockville, MD, USA
  "The 'rod' is barbaric.  I have had no doubt that weird things go on behind closed doors, but to have the advertising of such a weapon in a homeschooling magazine and to consider it Christian is beyond my reality.  Beating someone...where is love?  Where is respect?  If someone 10 times bigger than me came at me with a whip like that...Please don't endorse this perversity."

254. Peter DePaoli, Chicago, IL, USA, DePaoli Custom Carpentry
  "This device is utterly and completely unacceptable."

255. Gaylene Gallagher, Norwalk, CT, USA, MOTHER
  "Any parent that needs to use 'the rod' to discipline their children clearly shouldn't be parents at all.  This is promoting child abuse and quoting the bible as a sales pitch!  How dare you!!!   I'd love to get the rod and use it on YOU!"

256. Jennifer McAllister, Mesa, AZ, USA
  "There's nothing to say other than EVIL.  Anyone who could even say that the bible intended for a child to be beat is seriously ill.  The company should be put out of business."

257. Stephanie Bartlow, Topeka, KS, USA
  "This is horrible, I can't believe they still sell stuff like this.  Talk about encouraging parents to beat/abuse their children."

258. Louri, Chicago Suburg, IL, USA, SAHM
  "This cannot be real!  What kind of parent could use such a thing?  How can these people get away with manufacturing this and actually are getting sales?!?!?!  Please HELP STOP the CHILD ABUSE, STOP THE ROD!"

259. Keri, Blaine, MN, USA

260. Laura Wright, Richburg, SC, USA, Homemaker and mother of 2
  "This tool should be illegal.  To think that people spank their children with this is horrendous.  Please make 'the rod' illegal."

261. Victoria Moody, Baldwin, NY, USA
  "SICK!"

262. Marie Curfman, Louisville, KY, USA
  "OMG I am absolutely APPALLED!!!!!!!!!!!"

263. Brenda, Buffalo, NY, USA
  "It's horrible that anyone would want to promote such a device for punishing a child.  WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU SICK PEOPLE!!!  MAYBE SOMEONE SHOULD WHIP YOU WITH THE ROD AND SEE HOW YOU LIKE IT!!!"

264.  Tracy, IL, USA
  "I can't believe something like this is out there.  This is child abuse and anyone that uses this needs to have their child taken away from them."

265. Misty Albright, Dallas, TX, USA, Mother
  "That is just wrong!!!!!!!  These are our children.  Why on earth would any one want to use this thing on our little gifts from God."

266. Jodi Lynn Palmer, Redding, CA, USA, Mommy
  "This saddens me!"

267. Danielle Boyle, Upper Darby, PA, USA

268. Joan Lindrman, Gaithersburg, MD, USA
  "If a parent feels they must strike their child they should use nothing more than a feather."

269. Marina, Little Rock, AR, USA
  "Horrible!!!  You shouldn't need to TRAIN a child.  Just love them."

270. Julia, Albuquerque, NM, USA
  "It even has a cushioned grip, so you don't hurt your hands while you BEAT your CHILD.  This makes me sick.  Absolutely sick.  Never thought I'd see an advertisement for a product designed to help parents ABUSE their children.  Anyone who would buy this is a monster, and so are the people who created it."

271. Annette Frontz, Williamsport, PA, USA
  "This is truly one of the most disgusting items I have ever seen for sale.  Babies and children are for loving, not beating."

272. Lindsay Baker, Corvallis, OR, USA

273. Amanda, VA, USA
  "Words can't explain how sad it makes me to see an item like this for sale."

274. Jennie Sweeney, Weatherford, TX, USA
  "I used to work with a committee for prevention of child abuse years ago as a volunteer.  I can honestly say that things like the rod will spur more violence, more hardened criminals.  Were an adult to use this on another adult he or she would be charged with felony assault and do jail time.  Why is it ok for this to be used on small defenseless humans?  Please help take this off the market."

275. Heidi Foss, Asheville, NC, USA, Mom
  "This ad literally brought tears to my eyes.  This item itself is not the offense.  It is the barbaric and moronic idea that hitting children teaches anything other than fear.  Things like this give good Christians a bad name."

276. Julie McMahon, Tulsa, OK, USA, Assistant Public Defender
  "Parents are not only using 'The Rod', but other household items as well.  This abuse starts at age four months.  It lands the parents in prison, where they should be, and it lands the children in foster care.  I think it is time the manufacturers of this idea pay.  Anyone who contributes to it is contributing to child endangerment and they should be held accountable."

277. Nicole Morse, Weybridge, VT, USA, Aspen Grove Homeschool
  "I am horrified that this product is being marketed.  It needs to be stopped, now."

278. Margie Bekoff, Weybridge, VT, USA, Homeschool Mom
  "I'm shocked that a company would manufacture and sell a product llike the Rod.  Thanks to all who have brought attention to this issue."

279. Reverend Andrew Gibson, Woburn, MA, USA Universal Life Church

280. Nicole Yeary, New York, NY, USA, Student

281. Melissa Jensen, Coalville, UT, USA

282. Jared Jensen Coalville, UT, USA

283. Charlotte Jensen, El Paso, TX, USA

284. Kay Jensen, Coalville, UT, USA

285. David Jensen, El Paso, TX, USA

286. Dan Jensen, Coalville, UT, USA

287. Karen (Kitty) Larkowski, South Dennis, MA, USA
  "Hitting a baby or child with ANYTHING is disgusting and abusive.  Stop the rod!!"

288. Susan Schumacher-James, Seattle, WA, USA, Mothering.com
  "Why is it okay to hit a child with one of these but if you hit an adult it would be assault?"

289. Olga, Raleigh, NC, USA
  "Please do all you can to have The Rod taken off of store shelves!!!"

290. Amber Curtis, Tucson, AZ, USA, Latter Day Learners Homeschool Association
  "I urge you to take action to stop the manufacture and sale of a tool whose sole purpose is to abuse children.  In a day and age where children need to be protected and nurtured, where we claim to be civilized society, an instrument such as the 'Rod' is abhorrent.  Please protect our children!"

291. Beth Thorne, Los Angeles, CA, USA
  "This is really sad and depressing.  Please forward this petition to everyone you know."

292. Cindi Wilding, Aurora, CO, USA, Mom
  "Horrible!!"

293. Diane Engelking, Lebanon, IN, USA
  "In biblical times, rods were used to guide and direct the sheep, NOT BEAT THE SHEEP!"

294. Many Johnson, Norfolk, VA, USA
  "You should ban the sale of any item that can directly be linked with abusing children."

295. Kyra Arnold, USA, Mother
  "I think the inventor and the endorsers should be 'trained' with this."

296. Kimberly DiNoto, Havre de Grace, MD, USA
  "This is cruel and unusual punishment.  What could a child do to ever deserve to be hit with anything, much less something like this?  I would never use anything like this on an animal and to think they make these for use on small children is outrageous!  BAN THE ROD!"

297. Carie Thomas, Urbana, OH, USA
  "What a ridiculous product.  I can't believe it's actually manufactured."

298. Carissa Dollar, Indianapolis, IN, USA
  "Unbelievable that something like this is being produced and marketed to inflict physical punishment on children.  This is irresponsible and encouraging out and out abuse.  Please do your part to cease the production and marketing of this item."

299. Jessica Knight, Indiana, USA
  "This is just horrible.  That is not a way to correct your child.  That is abuse pure and simple."

300. Rabiya Marden, Streamwood, IL, USA

301. K. Beaune, Spruce Grove, Alberta, CANADA
  "That is disgusting and a total misrepresentation of what the Lord meant.  He would NEVER and will NEVER condone that kind of abuse of the little ones!!"

302. Dawn Downs, Indianapolis, IN, USA
  "The shepherd used the rod to guide the sheep not beat them with it."

303. Liesl Berger, Garner, NC, USA
  "The ultimate in immoral acts."

304. Kathy Evangelista, Latrobe, PA, USA

305. Sandra Alexander, Snohomish, WA, USA
  "Stop enabling abusers to believe this weapon is ok."

306. Charity Short, Indianapolis, IN, USA
  "This is no way to correct children at all.  These companies are encouraging child abuse and corporal punishment.  I look at this like it is corporal punishment.  And these companies in the USA are saying it is okay to beat your child no it is not.  Corporal punishment is illegal in half the states anyway so the companies should stop."

307. B. Laakso, Akron, OH, USA, Ethical Parent
  "The Rod should get 'the shaft'."

308. Kim Reyes, Sterling Heights, MI, USA, Homeschool Mom
  "As a Christian homeschooler I am saddened and disgusted that this is being marketed to other Christian homeschoolers.  How can those who use this abusive device expect to raise their children to be warm and loving, kind and considerate people?  Jesus set an example that we are called to follow and I do not believe that if he used 'The Rod' the little children would have come to him (Mark 10:13-16).  Please outlaw this brutal weapon!"

309. Heather, Columbus, OH, USA
  "The rod is disgusting and should be outlawed.  How can a company make something like this?"

310. Melody Ward, Eastpointe, MI, USA
  "Teach them right in the first place and no rod would be of use."

311.  Leslie Kleinsmith, Westland, MI, USA
  "This is the sickest thing I have ever seen!!!"

312. Stefani E. Barner, Mt. Clemens, MI, USA
  "Child abuse should not be condoned under the guise of free enterprise!"

313. Mary C. Reyes, Sterling Hts., MI, USA
  "This 'method of correction' only creates frustration and a deep seated anger in a child which is never resolved.  It will manifest itself in child or spousal abuse in adulthood."

314. Phyllis Porter, Brownstown, MI, USA
  "Absolutely disgusting!"

315. Shawn Wilder, Shelton, WA, USA
  "The devil smiles every time people use 'The Rod' on God's precious little children."

316. Angela L. Swain, Swansboro, NC, USA, Homeschool Mom of two boys
  "I can't believe that some onewould make such an awful product to sell!!  I am even more appalled that this was in a Home School Digest magazine.  We as homeschool parents do not like this at all.  There are other more meaningful ways in order to tell children right from wrong.  We have enough child abuyse going on in America I also can not believe they are talking about using the 'Rod' on babies.  I mean come on!!  Babies!!!  I hope you other parents out there that are homeschooling will get this company off the market because seeing how it was in a homeschool magazine they(the government) is going to link us to child abuse.  We love our children and that is only one of the reasons why we homeschool."

317. Nora Yarborough, Stella, NC, USA
  "Cruel."

318. Cindy Toler, NC, USA

319. Will Ireland, Sydney, AUSTRALIA
  "Disgusting.  What kind of person would use this product on a child.  Perhaps more importantly, what kind of company would make such a product!  xxxx fascist christians."

320. Kimberly M. Van Der Meid, Midland, NC, USA, New Beginnings School #2
  "It is despicable as a Christian to see that this is for sale in our country and that it is shown as a representation of Christianity!"

321. Canesa Dent, Vancouver, WA, USA, Medical Assistant
  "This is one of the most disturbing things I have ever read.  I can not believe that these people have not been arrested and had their kids taken away already.  This is CHILD ABUSE plain and simple.  These people need to do some serious jailtime."

322. Janelle Alford, Arlington, TX, USA
  "Inhumane!  An assault to children!"

323. Annie Levine, Brooklyn, NY, USA
  "A disgrace!!!  Children are little people.  Who hits little people????  I am sick over this."

324. Barbara, Concord, NC, USA
  "This is so unbelievable!  My husband didn't believe it until I showed him this article.  I wonder if the people that recommend this 'rod' would allow us (the petitioners) to use it on them when necessary?"

325. Heather Martin, Jackson, MI, USA
  "The 'rod' of the shepherds in biblical time was for herding the sheep, keeping them gathered and keeping predators at bay.  I do not recall one passage stating that the sheep were struck!!!"

326. Lynn, Brooklyn, NY, USA
  "This is an outrage."

327. Scarlet K. Long, Indianapolis, IN, USA, R.N.; Mother; Grandmother
  "Sick stuff, indeed."

328. Jill Dufek, Las Vegas, NV, USA
  "I am in awe that something like this would be on the market for sale.  Being a mother I'm completely saddened to think that parents use this on their kids.  This is NOT ok."

329. Elain Miller, PA, USA
  "This is nauseating; this company making money on selling an object that should not be allowed to sell.  Personally, I don't know how the owner of this company and its employees are able to look at themselves in the mirror every day.  I vote that this should cease and desist right now!"

330. Donna Maria O'Donnell, Wharton, NJ, USA
  "Barbaric!!"

331. Mrs. Jennifer Nolen, St. Louis, MO, USA

332. Kimberly Campbell, WV, USA
  "I am speechless...This is so disgusting, I can't even believe there actually has to be a petition on this, that someone wouldn't have immediately done something about this!!  The makers of 'The Rod' need to be STOPPED!!!"

333. Nicole Hensley, Kodak, TN, USA

334. Ilaria Keogh, AZ, USA
  "Sick and pathetic.  If I agreed with an eye for eye, I'd use the Rod on the manufacturers myself."

335. Mary Oehler, Seattle, WA, USA
  "Manufacture of 'The Rod' is encouraging and validating child abuse."

336. Tammy Kozoris, Prince George, British Columbia, CANADA
  "This is absolutely unforgivable.  I wouldn't whip my enemy never mind my child.  My heart cries out for those children who have had this used upon them :( "

337. Jackie, Chicago, IL, USA
  "What kind of sick SOB does this to a baby?!  This needs to be stopped IMMEDIATELY!"

338. Annete Sweeney, Omaha, NE, USA, special education teacher
  "To believe that God wants people to deliberately hurt children is outrageous.  The Bible is full of figurative language; 'the rod' symbolizes correction, guidance, and direction--it's not an actual weapon.  Do not allow people to use The Bible as an excuse to inflict pain, much less on small children.  I sincerely hopeyou do not allow your state to be known as the only one that allows the sale of tools intended for child abuse."

339. L. Thompson, Tacoma, WA, USA

340. Aimee B., Rochester Hills, MI, USA

341. Jean Daley, Wendell, MA, USA
  "A cushioned hand grip?  My, My, beat your baby and be comfy.  This is sick!"

342. Danielle Day, Lake Worth, FL, USA
  "This is sick, and so obviously child abuse that I don't know what to say."
http://www.kjsl.com/~lindav/notrain.htm
http://www.askdrsears.com/html/6/T062100.asp - see especially #6

343. Patricia R. Robinson, Charlotte, NC, USA, Children's Advocacy Against Violent Discipline
"No one has the right to hit another individual except in direct physical self-defense. Hitting is violence.  The repetitive violence against children is abuse.  Stop the use of this tool of abuse."

344. Nicole Hollinger, Bixby, OK, USA, Christian schooling mother
  "'God is Love' not the Rod."

345. Amy H., Surprise, AZ, USA, Mother of 2 chlidren, who are not spanked EVER!!! & A Child Advocate for Human Rights
  "This is DISGUSTING!!!  Shame on the makers of this product, shame on the people who buy it and shame on the people who support this.  STOPPPPP hitting, slapping, smacking, spanking, tapping, pinching, biting and START teching!!!!  Such actions DO NOT speak louder than words."

346. Myra A., Cottonwood, AZ, USA
  "Sick!!  Ban 'The Rod'"!!!

347. Regine Nickel, Brooklyn NY, USA, MA  Homemaker
  "cruel, immoral, inhumane, willfully ignorant of the Truth of Jesus' teaching"

348. Linda D. Mills, Gainesville, TX, USA, grandmother
  "This is outrageous...it must be stopped"

349. Kathy Marie Cooper, Gainesville, TX, USA, Security Officer
  "A child is a gift, it is not the child that did anything to deserve that kind of treatment, why are they even allowed to sell this."

350. Christy K. Hebron, MD, USA
  "I'm appalled that 'the rod' is being sold as a 'training' tool for our children.  I'm especially appalled that this is marketed under the guise of being biblically mandated--the God I know is loving and gives us Grace and Mercy as His children.  I'm a Christian and I don't believe in physical punishment for our children.  If this product was marketed for animals, there'd be an instant uproar.  It's amazing to me that we seem to hold animals in a higher regard than our own children.  Very shameful indeed."

351. Cass, San Diego, CA, USA, For Family's Sake
  "If an adult were to be whipped by "The Rod" we would cry out about the injustice.  What makes you think that because a child is small, and acting his/her age, that he/she deserves to be whipped?  This device makes me physically ill.  Corporal punishment results in children lying and blaming others (because they don't want to be caught).  It does not result in the child thinking 'what happened?  what was my part? and what will I do differently next time?'  The children are thinking 'this isn't fair, it wasn't my fault, I hate mom/dad!!'"

352. Robert Carroll, Matteson, IL, USA, Teacher
  "Who was the genius at this magazine that accepted this advertisement rather than reporting the manufacturer to the State of Oklahoma's division of consumer and/or child safety for marketing an inherently dangerous and abusive product?"

353. Barbara Abatti, Varese, ITALY

354. Marilynn Buehler, Kattskill Bay, NY, USA, Glens Falls/Saratoga Homeschoolers
  "I'm still finding it hard to believe this actually exists, it's so appallingly evil.  How does something like this even find its way to market???!!!!"

355. Jessica Bolstridge, Lynchburg, VA, USA, Student
  "This is a horrible 'thing' to use on children.  How dare anyone resort to violence!"

356. Amy Matthews, Henderson, NC, USA, mother
  "I can't believe that these people are being allowed to torture, beat, neglect, and destroy children.  This is the most disgusting thing I have ever seen that relates itself to Christianity.  I am appalled."

357. Garrett Hussion, Newark, NJ, USA, Student
  "The rod is fxxxxx up.  I can't believe people would actually hit their children.  They should be ashamed."

358. Cynthia Bray, Oklahoma City, OK, USA, Concerned Mother
  "If I were to hit an adult with this object I would be arrested for assault."

359. Wendy Stiner, Winterville, NC, USA

360. Letitia Davis, Woodstock, GA, USA
  "Unbelievable!"

361. Steve, London, ENGLAND
  "Can't believe it's actually allowed."

362. Jean Hathaway Ewart, Reno, NV, USA
  "My children and I discussed this issue and began to cry for the parents who think this is the only way to raise children.  Life can be hard, but children make living life an adventure.  God could not possibly want us to whip the spirit out of his children.  Protect and educate the young and find another way to teach them your rules and proper manners other than whipping them.  Parents should not be terrorists."

363. Debra Michael, Grove, OK, USA, Homeschooling Mom
  "Once again, someone making a profit by twisting the words of the bible.  Please help to stop this!"

364. Barbara Sparrow, Austin, TX, USA, Adjunct Professor of Psychology
 
365. Belinda Howell, Austin, TX, USA, RN, JD
  "Even the implicit implication that it is prudent to strike a child in any fashion, with any instrument, is heinous and every effort should be made to make the manufacture, sale, or use a criminal act."

366. Jennifer Slatton, Gainesville, FL, USA, concerned mother of 3
  "Please help protect babies and children by outlawing the sale of this 'device' as it is currently being advertised.  This tool reflects a truly warped understanding and use of biblical text.  Were 'the rod' being advertised to abuse adults it would have ben pulled off the market immediately.  How much more do defenseless children need us to do this for them.  Please act quickly on your conscience!"

367. Sarah Johnson, Austin, TX, USA, Mother, Graduate student in Education
  "The sale of this product should be stopped."

368. Jacqui Ainsworth, Pflugerville, TX, USA
  "Absolutely disgusting!"

369. Stacey Bell, Austin, TX, USA, Mother and advocate for children's rights
  "Please stop the sale of this barbaric tool!"

370. Penny Chastain Muskogee, OK, USA

371. Sherry Galster, Nevada, MO, USA
  "How awful, I think someone should take 'THE ROD' and use it on the manufacturer!"

372. Lori A. Fast, Austin, TX, USA
  "How appalling that this is marketed as a 'Christian' method of discipline."

373. Nicole Wardall, Port Washington, WI, USA
  "I cannot believe that in the United States of America a petition has to be signed to cease the manufacturing and sale of this product.  I am thoroughly disgusted that humankind would even imagine the idea for this product, let alone market to people using god as a scapegoat.  Horrid, awful company."

374. Sandra Mort, Baltimore, MD, USA, homeschooling mother
  "How sad that we should even need to say this is wrong..."

375. Maggie Sullivan, Austin, TX, USA, Mother and Family Counselor in Training
  "Please stop the manufacture and sale of this dangerous product!"

376. Piaf Azul, Austin, TX, USA
  "This should be stopped."

377. Allie Porter, Austin, TX, USA
  "We need to treat children as we would like to be treated.  Their behavior reflects their treatment.  How could a product like this ever lead to a loving, kind, gentle person?"

378. Tiana, Round Rock, TX, USA
  "This makes me sick to my stomach!!!!  I can't believe someone would ever use such a thing on someone they claim to love so much."

379. Jennifer Ryan, NY, NY, USA
  "I weep for the children whose parents would even consider such a thing."

380. Robin Clochard, Paizay Naudouin, FRANCE

381. Summer Whitten, Austin, TX, USA, Mother

382. Somer Tramba, KS, USA

383. Nancy Nance, Austin, TX, USA
  "I hope that no more children are hurt and frightened by this tool marketed solely for the purpose of hitting them."

384. Alana Miller, Rochester, NY, USA
  "Disgusting."

385. Kerry Joyce, Austin, TX, USA
  "Appalling!"

386. Jennifer Mandaville, Grants Pass, OR, USA
  "The only persons that could possibly deserve 'THE ROD' is the manufacturers and consumers of it.  DISGUSTING!!!"

387. Margret Lewis, Austin, TX, USA

388. James Dolan, New York, NY, USA
  "Church and state separate, now and forever."

389. Karen, Austin, TX, USA

390. Brooke, NJ, USA
  "This is sick.  Would Jesus approve of hitting a child with a rod?  Wasn't 'spare the rod, spoil the child' before Jesus' redemption touched us?  Instead of beating your child, think of what Jesus would do.  Wouldn't he reason with a child?  Wouldn't he embrace the child and teach him right from wrong by example instead of from coercion?  This is a cheap evangelical tool for God-mandated child abuse.  Yet another example of how the Christian right twists the words of Jesus for their own purposes.  Beat your children, bomb Iraq, deny health care to poor people, etc.  Jesus would be ashamed of how His name is used these days.  Jesus is a Democrat."

391. Stella Kerl, Austin, TX, USA
  "It appears to be a product attempting to profit from the abuse of children."

392. Karen Jo Agnello, Austin, TX, USA, mom
  "I firmly believe that the government should be decreasing involvement in our lives, especially regarding capitalism, however, this is over the line and needs to be stopped."

393. Michele Holt, Georgetown, TX, USA
  "Sickening."

394. Tricia Mitchell Kim, Austin, TX, USA

395. Lauren Sheppard, Austin, TX, USA
  "This sadist is promoting child abuse to make a buck.  Despicable.  Deplorable.  Depraved."

396. Marie Franks, Round Rock, TX, USA, MOTHER
  "This is WRONG and child abuse!!  Stop this now!!"

397. Amy Metzger, Eugene, OR, USA
  "The 'rod' spoken of in the Bible is a measuring rod, you idiots!  NOT a weapon for beating children!  God is a God of grace and forgiveness.  Try actually READING the BIBLE!"

398. Jessica Powers, Austin, TX, USA
  "This product is very disturbing.  I feel physically ill just thinking about it.  There are already so many things that hurt children in the world, we should not be selling and advocating more stuff especially filth like this.  The makers of this should be put in jail!"

399. Amy Barry, Sisters, OR, USA
  "This is child abuse and it is illegal and immoral and the thought of using this on a child horrifies me."

400. Dyanna Larson, Austin, TX, USA, Loving Mother
  "Simply put, they are manufacturing and selling an object designed for the sole purpose of violating the law (child abuse).  How is this legal and lock picks aren't?"

401. Jack Holt, McMurdo Station, ANTARCTICA, professor
  "The advertising and sale of this device for use on children is an abomination.  Please put a stop to it NOW!!"

402. Lydia Jalagonia, Augusta, GA, USA, Home Engineer
  "The use of this instrument is a despicable and vile perversion of the word of God.  God is a God of grace and mercy, who loves children and would never wish to see them abused in this way."

403. Katalina Pierce, Austin, TX, USA
  "This sickens me, it should be illegal.  This needs to be stopped and the people responsible should be thrown in jail."

404. Beth Foster, Louisville, KY, USA, Christian mother of 3
  "This is appalling, and certainly does not promote loving Christian values.  Ignorance, and lazy parentingis what causes the 'need' for this item.  You can discipline without spanking!  It's done all of our adult lives, when we get too 'old' for spankings."

405. Maria I. Bracht, Winston-Salem, NC, USA, President, Homecrafts, Inc.
  "An abomination!!  A repulsive reminder of our ignorance."

406. Mary Corgey, Jasper, TX, USA
  "Unspeakable"

407. Rachel Gill, Austin, TX, USA

408. Diana Edgar, Austin, TX, USA
  "The 'rod' referred to in the bible was GUIDANCE.  A means which pointed the sheep in the right direction.  It was not used to beat the animals.  Hitting is wrong.  Children, dogs, adults..."

409, 410 & 411. Danny, Anne and AJ Garza, Mexico City, MEXICO
  "PLEASE stop the manufacturing and sale of this evil weapon!!!"

412. Heather Nichols, Austin, TX, USA, Mother of two
  "I don't even know what to say...this is so horrific!  Children are disciplined much better by love and  guidance as opposed to violence and abuse."

413. Danielle Hammon, Big Bend National Park, TX, USA

414. Heather Jackson, Tucson, AZ, USA, CPS Investigator
  "I am appalled that this weapon is now being marketed as an implement of punishment.  I saw a similar weapon in a home that the owner told me was sold at a gun show and was labeled 'whup ass stick.'  I am very disturbed by the fact that should an adult hit another adult with this stick, they would most likely be arrested for assault or a domestic violence charge, yet clearly children are being injured with this weapon and there are no legal repercussions for the manufacturer or the abusers.  Governor, you have a tremendous opportunity to send the message that child abuse will not continue to be trivialized or become a profitable activity.  This is exploitation at its basest level."

415. Sandra Jackson, Austin, TX, USA
  "This is disgusting!"

416. Gwen Macdougall, Toronto, Ontario, CANADA
  "Sickening and disgraceful"

417. Nadine Myers, Dornsife, PA, USA, homeschooling mom to 5

418. Jennifer Haller, Waterloo, Ontario, CANADA
  "It is hard to believe anyone could use such a device on a child."

419 & 420. Sanford and Melinda Marble, Austin, TX, USA

421. Brooke Smith, New York, NY, USA
  "What has this country come to?  Are we really going back in time?  Of course, we live in NY and didn't vote for Bush so we still find things like this shocking."

422. Earl Dimmock,  Jasper, TX, USA

423. Shirley Dimmock, Jasper, TX, USA

424. K. Dunn, Leander, TX, USA
  "Absolutely horrifying that someone is manufacturing and selling a way to beat babies & children.  Stop this!"

425. Martine Weber, Humble, TX, USA, Mother
  "There should never be any reason to physically touch your child other than to love.  Hitting a child is the laziest way of discipline.  It takes work and lots of time to show a child the right way to act.  They all have their own personalities.  Thank goodness."

426.  Paula Scafe, Austin, TX, USA
  "As I understand the Bible, 'spare the rod, spoil the child' is referring to a shepherd's staff, which is used to GUIDE.  'Discipline' means 'to teach' and I'd bet that if Jesus beat his disciples, he would not have had any."

427. Karen Herbert, Austin, TX, USA
  "This is appalling!  Hitting children with anything, even a specially designed whip with a 'safety tip' is not discipline or correction.  It's abuse."

428. Krista Kilbane, Austin, TX, USA, LMSW

429. Brenda Beth Taylor, Brookeland, TX, USA
  "A terrible instrument to be sold for the purpose of disciplining children."

430. Karen Wilson, Cedar Park, TX, USA
  "It is unacceptable that we allow products made and advertised for the purpose of abusing children.  If this were child pornography, it would be illegal.  This sort of abuse is no less harmful.  Please stop the sale of objects meant to torture children."

431. Ann Reynolds, Ft. Leonard Wood, MO, USA

432. Michelle Melani, Indianapolis, IN, USA
  "When the Bible talks of 'spare the rod, spoil the child' it is within the context of shepherding.  A shepherd uses a rod to guide and protect the sheep, not to beat them.  Hitting people is wrong, and children are people too.  Please don't allow the sale of a weapon whose sole use is to beat children."

434. Cory Walsh, Los Angeles, CA, USA
  "Just when I think the 'Christians' of the world can't get any less like Christ, they come up with something like this.  It's inconceivable the harm and death perpetrated in the name of religion all over this world.  It makes me sick.  Anyone can pull a sentence out of that horrible and laughable book of lies and use it to their advantage.  When are these people going to wake up?"

435. Maureen Maddern, Orange, CT, USA
  "If this is real it is unbelievable--what kind of sick mind came up with this?"

436. Karis Booth, Lancaster, CA, USA, MFCC Intern
  "Wow. How stupid are we becoming?  What a horrible barbaric 'too'.  Read the Bible correctly and learn how Jesus felt children  should be raised and treated."

437. Nilsa Compton, Santa Fe, NM, USA

438. Jennifer Howerd, Los Angeles, CA, USA

439. Georgeann Erhardt, Derby, CT, USA, a mother/grandmother
  "No reason ever to be used."

440. Melinda Russett, Leander, TX, USA
  "I am horrified that people treat a child like this.  Why is it legal to strike a child with anything, especially an object like this?  I think people that use this should charged with assault just like they would if they hit another adult with it."

441. Jeannine Josias, Ansonia, CT, USA
  "I am appalled at this.  I wouldn't believe it if I didn't see it!  How DARE you!!!!!!!!"

442. Howard B. Josias, Southpport, NC, USA, retired
  "What will they think of next?"

443. Bethany Prescott, Austin, TX, USA, Professional Counselor and Educator
  "Children learn from every action we take, every word we say, every touch we lay on them.  The child that grows in a home where 'the Rod' is an acceptable demonstration of discipline, will learn that they are deserving of pain and suffering...that their little bodies are not respected and cherished, but are abused and tortured.  Please love your children, please respect all children.  Stop all sales of this abusive product."

444. Martine Gordon, Humble, TX, USA, retired
  "As a grandmother, I can not see any normal human being using this horrible thing.  It reminds me of the cattle rod used to make cattle move faster.  Children are not animals.  They are a gift from God."

445. Ginger Collins, Derby, CT, USA

446. Chandi Meyer, Milwaukee, WI, USA
  "SICK SICK SICK!  When did Jesus use a rod to discipline??  YOU ARE ABUSING INNOCENT CHILDREN!  THAT my friend is enough for me to say, GO TO xxxx"

447. Rosemary Weber, Houston, TX, USA
  "It is so fitting that the handle is cushioned.  We sure wouldn't want the user to be hurt, now would we?  Whoever invented this should be the first one on which it should be used."

448. Sharon, CT, USA
  "This is absolutely disgusting and whoever is manufacturing it should be beaten with it."

449. Albert M. Dimmock Sr., Derry, NH, USA
  "THOSE WHO MAKE THIS ROD AND SELL IT SHOULD GO TO JAIL FOR ENDANGERING CHILDREN"

450. Melanie De Assis, Los Angeles, CA, USA
  "This should not be used on ANY living creature!!!"

451. Michele Hobbs, Inian Harbour Beach, FL, USA, Mama that does not HIT!
  "Hmm  IM SPEECHLESS!!!!!!"

452. Barry D. Baker, Salem, MA, USA
  "Unthinkable...."

453. Lynell Hunt, Austin, TX, USA
  "This is appalling."

454. Jonathan Link, Derby, CT, USA
  "I thought this was a joke at first because I couldn't fathom this item being sold here in the U.S.A.  This is sick.  While you're at it, how about a child cage, or even leather restraints."

455. Janney Gordon, Beaumont, TX, USA

456. Tara, Beaumont, TX, USA

457. Melody Sanislo, Wendell, MA, USA
  "I am disgusted beyond words."

458. Mary Van Deurse, Norton, MA, USA
  "If parents take the time to talk and listen to their children devices like the rod would not be necessary.  It takes patience, compassion and understanding to be a good parent, not abuse."

459. Kathleen Walsh, MA, Miami, FL, USA
  "'The means prescribed by God'????  To exactly which god are these poor, deranged souls referring?  (And it isn't it great that the handle is cushioned for the abuser?)"

460. Mike Cimmarrusti, Los Angeles, CA, USA

461. Suzanne McWhorter, Austin, TX, USA

462. Jessica Delvalle, Stratford, CT, USA
  "I believe in disciplining a child but I do not believe in disciplining with a device.  That is cruel and unusual punishment and I do not wish for it to be manufactured in the US."

463. Norma Jean Jackson, Austin, TX, USA
 
464. Charlene Galyon, Houston, TX, USA
  "Please do not glorify beating children in the name of God."

465. Deirdre Caruso, Seymour, CT, USA
  "Anyone that feels that this is appropriate, should be forced to have THE ROD used on them!"

466. Leslie Buckens, Shelton, CT, USA
  "I am so saddened to see something being sold to 'train' children.  I haven't seen anything like this being sold to train animals!"

467. Nicole, Calcium, NY, USA
  "I can't believe this kind of device is actually being produced.  Whoever thought of this is a sick individual!!!!!"

468. Jami Nielsen, Branford, CT, USA

469. Alicia Lawson, Elgin, IL, USA

470. Denise Klenotich, Palm By, FL, USA
  "That is horrible.  What about a nice talk telkling your child what they actually did wrong instead of beating them."

471. Dana Fleetham, Dayton, OH, USA
  "This product is a disgusting excuse to abuse children.  I hope no one buys it!"

472. Vicki Shawl, Charlotte, NC, USA, LLL - member, AP - parent, MA, NCC - certified counselor
  "Children deserve respect and modeling.  Hitting teaches that 'I am more powerful, bigger, and stronger' .  If I model hitting with or without the rod, I am not teaching my child how to resolve her problems, how to reason with her words.  I want my children to know that violence does not solve problems, it only exacerbates them.  To give my child the example of nurturing, learning to voice opinion and modeling 'do unto others as you would have others do unto you' I am giving my child the opportunity to feel self confident, grow with my respect that she is a human being deserving of that.  The ROD simply put is a tool for abuse, and that should not be legal in this country!"

473. Alison Alexander, Charlotte, NC, USA

474. Shirley Smith, Grapevine, TX, USA, mother
  "It is unbelievable that someone would hurt something as precious as a child, God's gifts to us, and that someone would develop something like this."

475. Patty Lacoss-Arnold, St. Charles, MO, USA
  "The idea that someone is making money off of a torture device for small children just makes me ill.  I am a member of a conservative Christian denomination and I can find nothing in the bible or elsewhere to support the use of this device."

476. Kristin Pettler, Charlotte, NC, USA, Mother
 
477. Mrs. Hadas Dvir, Long Beach, CA, USA
  "I am disgusted by this product!"

478. Debra Borrelli, Derby, CT, USA, mother of 5 children (Christian)
  "Please Ban the sale of this Product!  Children need a balance of love and discipline.  NOT ABUSE!!!!"

479. Kristy Trahan, Houma, LA, USA, Mother of two daughters (age 2 and 4)
  "I was referred to this site by a friend and my stomach is sick just looking at 'The Rod' and the advertsement for it.  I am a mother of two daughters (ages 2 and 4) and a firm believer in POSITIVE DISCIPLINE.  I couldn't imagine hitting my children let alone using something like this on my children.  Please do what you can to put a stop to this.  Thank you for all of your efforts."

480. Sue Trapp, Houston, TX, USA
  "This product needs to be eliminated from our society immediately."

481. R. Pierre, McAllen, TX, USA
  "The Rod is another style of 'Child Abuse'!  I raised my younger sister and brothers and later my son without having to physically discipline them.  Educate the parents!!!!!!!!!!"

482. Elizabeth Barrow, Sugar Land, TX, USA

483. Leif C. Hatlen, Houston, TX, USA

484. Muriel Stubbs, Houston, TX, USA
  "Only the American Taliban would even think of peddling such a thing.  Jesus would be appalled."

485. Nancy Patumanoan, Houston, TX, USA
  "Please don't allow 'the Rod' to be available to hurt our children."

486. Victoria Hawkins, Houston, TX, USA

487. David Wolfson, Austin, TX, USA, Spoon Films

488. Beth Zeffert, Houston, TX, USA, Mother, Grandmother and Wife
  "Where is the love for our innocent children?  Where is the morality in this?  This is child abuse and it has to be stopped now!"

489. Betty Jacobs, Granbury, TX, USA, Cogdell Academy
  "HITTING IS WRONG!  Did Christ use a rod on his Disciples?  NO.  He led by example.  A never changing example of LOVE.  If more parents would be more Christ-like in their example so would their children.  I wonder what Jesus would have become if Mary and Joseph had used corporal punishment."

490. Sylvia B. Pollack, Seattle, WA, USA
  "When Jesus said 'suffer the little children to come unto me' he did not mean to MAKE children suffer."

491. Aimee Tullos, Denton, TX, USA, Mother & Empath of All Children
  "May the wondrous light that is the universe fold itself in loving comfort around every child who meets such hypocrisy and injustice from those who are supposed to love them best.  Instruments of child torture MUST NOT be a profitable, viable business in your state or any other!!!  God help us all."

492. Amy Long, Flower Mound Texas, USA, RN, BSN
  "As a nurse, I would be required BY LAW to report anyone who used such an implement on a child to Child Protective Services as it meets the guidelines for abuse."

493. & 494. Glen and Sandy, Nebo, NC, USA
  "That 'rod' is a WEAPON, not an instrument for correction."

495. Pam Hameed, Flower Mount, TX, USA

496. Jim Sydnor, Denton, TX, USA
  "In the late 1800's items were sold in catalogues for disciplining the 'wife.'  We have really not come too far in over 100 years.  Children are people and as such deserve physical protections from those that would seek to harm, them, even 'for their own good.'"

497. Alva Buxenbaum, Brooklyn, NY, USA, Educator
  "I am appalled at the manufacture of such a device to encourage child abuse.  What kind of christian ethics is this?"

498. Sabrina Buza, Camillus, NY, USA, university student
  "I can't believe this is legal!"

499. Katherine Keith, Norman, OK, USA
  "It is hard to believe that someone can make a profit off of a tool that is used to abuse children.  I remember how proud my uncle was when he figured out that if he drilled holes in his wooden paddle, you could swing it harder and faster.  It takes a really sick person to do these kinds of things."

500. Laura Arnold, Stillwater, OK, USA
  "Governor Henry, you have proven yourself to be friend and ally of the families and children in our state.  I hope you can help once again in this appalling situation."

501. Lisa Williams, Norman, OK, USA
  "When are we going to stop beating our children in the name of 'God'."

502. Kristen Russell, Norman, OK, USA, Center for Children and Families, Inc.
 
503. Michelle Newman, Norman, OK, USA

504. Susan Cogan, Norman, OK, USA
  "This is appalling.  I am even more sickened by the thought of people who think that beating children is 'moral'."

505. Tiffany Parker, Oklahoma City, OK, USA

506. Tiffany Wylie, Norman, OK, USA
  "I add my voice to the others who cry out against 'The Rod'."

507. Andrea Cole, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
  "A travesty that something like this would be considered acceptable and effective child rearing."

508. Maka Laughingwolf, Norman, OK, USA
  "I am in tears.  This is the most outrageously cruel device I have ever seen advertised as a parenting tool.  It should be outlawed.  Does one have to be an adult to have a right to protection against assault and battery?"

509. & 510. Rick & Bunni Barrett, Newalla, OK, USA
  "Gov. Henry, would you allow this to be used on YOUR children?  Please stop this product, it's no different than a whip used for flogging."

511. Denilyn VanGundy, Norman, OK, USA, Center for Children and Families Inc.
  "Sparing the rod and nurturing the child are giving a child what they need.  We must eliminate the punishing mentality as well as the punishing tools."

512. Richard Morris, Norman, OK, USA
  "This guy should be locked up."

513. Dr. Aurolyn Luykx, Norman, OK, USA
  "I am shocked to hear of this.  Are we becoming Afghanistan?"

514. Kristen Burkett, Cleveland County, CASA, Inc., Norman, OK, USA

515. Mary L. Sharp, Norman, OK, USA, student in Masters of Social Work Program at OU
  "This is the most disgusting idea--selling rods with which to abuse children!  I am embarrassed that people might connect this backward and extremely harmful 'tool for chastening' to our great state of Oklahoma.  I have seen children who have been beaten with extension cords, adult fists, and whatever else sick parents had on hand.  Please don't encourage more violence by allowing the Slide Manufacturing Co. to get away with selling this criminal, vicious tool to anyone!  They should be taken out and 'chastened' with their own product!"

516. John Knehans, Norman, OK, USA, University of Oklahoma student

517. Tammie Burton, Lawton, OK, USA

518. Ashley Campbell, Sapulpa, OK, USA
  "With the information availale at our fingertips today, it's plain laziness that leads to hitting."

519. Marilyn Metzger, Norman, OK, USA, Family Advocate Mary Abbott Children's House
  "Painful beatings are not tools of learning no one can learn when they are hurt, angry embarassed or frightened.  This cannot be promoted in a State trying to be modern and attract new business.  We must raise our children to be a part of new business.  Beating them will not especially buying something to beat them with.  Marilyn"

520. Julie Peterson, Grand Prairie, TX, USA

521. Aimee Rook, MHR, ATR, LPC, Norman, OK, USA, Winding Creek Elementary School Counselor
  "When will they cease with the literal metaphor?  Jesus never beat anyone.  He only loved.  Governor Henry, please take a stand for all children.  Campaign to outlaw such terrorism."

522. Mrs. Lorrine Alfano, Pompano Beach, FL, USA
  "All god's creatures should be treated with love understanding and guidance."

523. Kimberly Reynolds, Lawrence KS, USA

524. Jayni Chase, Bedford, NY, USA, Wife-Mother/Activist
"It's time that we all work together to share information.  It is absolutely, without a doubt, proven that hitting a child is only damaging.  There are no benefits that will come from hitting a child.  Violence is not the answer, loving and talking is."

525. Melissa Butterworth, Plattsburgh, NY, USA, Student
  "It was a metaphor in the Bible to spare thee rod, I'm quite sure that this was not the rod that was intended.  I am speechless to a tool such as this being sold."

526. Dale Wares, Oklahoma City, OK, USA, Programs Manager/OKDHS
  "As a former child abuse investigator, I am appalled that this device is manufactured and marketed in Oklahoma.  As long as we condone the use of corporal punishment as a means of discipline, we will never win the campaign to abolish physical abuse of children."

527. Fran Morris, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
  "This is an international disgrace for Oklahoma."

528. Lonnie Spires, Columbia, SC, USA
  "Let me try using that rod on some of the parents and let's see how they like it!!"

529. Colleen Jeffrey, Groton, MA, USA
  "It is appalling that anyone would actually purchase this product and use it on a small child.  It is child abuse not discipline.  Please do not let them hide behind the Bible and their idiotic interpretation of 'spare the rod, spoil the child'.  What would Jesus do?  Teach by example with love and compassion."

530. Jim Hunt, Lowell, MA, USA
  "Disgusting!  Either close this factory or blow it up."

531. David Russell, Ph.D., Perrysburg, OH, USA, President: Westvon Publishing
  "This can only leave welts and bruises.  That should never be the goal of punishment."

532. Rachel Johnson, Tulsa, OK, USA, Music Teacher
  "This is a terrible tool for any use or means of punishment of a living being."

534. Annie Levine, Brooklyn, NY, USA
  "Beating little babies is not normal behavior.  I'm appalled that these items are being sold.  We have to stop the madness before children are killed or maimed for life."

535. Elin Fowler, Margate, FL, USA
  "This made me sick to my stomach.  Stop the insanity!!"

536. Ellen Slavin, Milford, CT, USA, Grandmother-babysitter
  "Sadistic person or persons who thought this up, you are sad, hurtful and ignorant."

537. Debbie Fein, Philadelphia, PA, USA
  "The Pearls should be whipped."

538. Mrs. Deborah Williams, Eat Liverpool, OH, USA
  "I just cannot believe this.....SICK, SICK, SICK THE PEOPLE WHO WROTE THIS BOOK ARE EVIL......"

539. Connie Nutter, Lubbock, TX, USA

540. Dwain Whitehurst, Iuka, MS, USA, United Methodist Pastor

541. Darlene J. Waters, S. Grafton, MA, USA, mom
  "This is absolutely the most barbaric thing I have ever seen."

542. Gena Claudel, Atlanta, GA, USA
  "Jesus suffered for us and our sins.  Our children should not have to."

543. Lorrie Corvin, Kansas City, MO, USA

544. Jodi Patterson, Atlanta, GA, USA, Jodi & Chase, Inc.

545. Stephanie Davis, Bristol, VA, USA

546. Jack Enyart, Tampa, FL, USA
  "Horrible."

547. Marie Guiles, Stow, MA, USA
  "As an adult parent that was abused as a child, I am appalled that such devices exist.  It is unquestionable in my mind that the use of such devices encourages the parent to go too far and that psychological damage to the child will be the outcome."

548. Sarah Bailey, Indianapolis, IN, USA
  "How sick that someone would profit from a tool that inflicts pain on kids."

549. Kristina Woods, Columbus, OH, USA
  "Sad.  Very, very sad."

550. Carl Roller, Boston, MA, USA
  "Appalling.  Simply no other word better describes this.  This isn't child 'correction,' it's child abuse.  Don't just stop it...ban it."

551. Andrew Cedrone, Boston, MA, USA, JBCC

552. Dennis Sheehy, Portland, ME, USA
  "Abhorrent way to treat children.  It teaches them that violence is an acceptable way to dominate others.  It doesn't work."

553. Kathryn Brinner, MD, Cambridge, MA, USA
  "As a pediatric resident, the idea of someone making money off such a horrible practice as spanking is sickening."

554. Susan Smith, Easton, MA, USA
  "Anyone who would hit a child should be ashamed of themselves."

555. Susan Huggins, Peabody, MA, USA
  "I do believe children need guidelines and rules in their lives to help them grow.  I do not believe in a tool that is lused to beat children complete with an easy hand held grip."

556. Kathy Golden, Boston, MA, USA
  "This is just irresponsible.  No need for such an item.  It's 2005!  Wake Up!"

557. Paul G. Maiorana, Arlington, VA, USA

558. David W. Allen, Milford, NH, USA
  "Yet another example of a literal interpretation of an ancient text completely misunderstood by 21st century Americans."

559. Ariel Penning, Orlando, FL, USA
  "I am repulsed by this 'product.'  The idea that someone has found a way to market child abuse absolutely sickens me."

560. Bob Casparius, Stamford, CT, USA
  "Violence in any form shows an inability to effectively communicate to others."

561. Vincent DiRienzo, Burlington, MA, USA
  "I am a father and LICSW (Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker) who is outraged that this product is allowed to be marketed and sold as method to discipline children.  Corporal punishment is a form of physical abuse that teaches children about power and the abuse of power.  There are better methods for disciplining chldren and many resources are available to educate parents on more effective disciplining techniques i.e. seeking help from a mental health professional."

562. Susann Denes, Carmel, CA, USA
  "The whole concept is awful it should be banned."

563. C. Wilkinson, South Orleans, MA, USA
  "Did Jesus whip little children?  Did Jesus sanction child abuse?  No.  You need to stop the selling of this instrument of torture."

564. Serenity Foster, Tulsa, OK, USA

565. Elaine Arnold, Altus, OK, USA
  "Hitting children is cruel punishment and poor parenting.  A company that make such a horrific tool should be ashamed.  They should be made to spend time with the social workers who visit abused and battered children who may very likely be the victims of their disciplinary device."

566. Jan Figart, Tulsa, OK, USA, Child Care Resource Center
  "The Child Care Resource Center opposes physical abuse.  Every effort should be made to restrict the sale of an item whose sole intent is to physically harm a child."

567. Bobby Coppins, Reading, MA, USA
  "Absolutely sickening that a company would promote pain/violence toward children."

568. John Bales, Dallas, TX, USA
  "'The Rod' is not better than caning people in the far east.  Maybe 'sparing the rod' was the method of discipline in the middle east during biblical times, but it's no longer an acceptable practice in the 21st century.  Please help to remove this abominable product from the market."

569. V. Johnson, Washington, DC, USA
  "What kind of psychopatic ego does it take to think a 200 pound adult should be hitting a 30 pound child with anything?  Violence breeds violence, not respect.  I should know having been hit repeatedl;y with a belt as a child.  If I can teach my dog good behavior using words and positive encouragement, I can teach a child."

570. Uoe Utsler, Los Angeles, CA, USA
  "If it isn't specifically illegal to market and sell a device specifically designed to beat children, it certainly should be."

571. Suzanne Connolly, Falmouth, ME, USA
  "Violence begats violence."

572. Dr. Patrick Connolly, Portland, ME, USA, Martin's Point Health Care
  "Stop the rod, spare the child."

573. Adam Conner-Simons, Newton, MA, USA, Pomona College
 
574. Leo Espinosa, Cambridge, MA, USA, Graphic Designer
  "The only asociation one can make between religioin and children's rights is that such rights are sacred.  Stop the rod now!"

575. Cydney Visio, Springfield, MO, USA, Mommy

576. Nathan Harrington, Lewiston, ME, USA

577. Julie Brown, Sacramento, CA, USA, Mother and Citizen
  "This is reprehensible.  Such devices do nothing but promote the abuse of children.  As someone who was hit with things such as clothing hangers, it does nothing but create emotional problems for a child."

578. Erica, Addison, TX, USA

579. Erin Nicole Moore, Canyon, TX, USA, Outraged College Student
  "I am currently writing a speech on abuse occuring within homeschool environments, and this only furthers my opinions on this subject.   It is outrageous that we are teaching our children and BABIES that it is okay to use force to express ourselves.  I am sick to my stomach!"

580. David Barns, Grinnel, IA, USA
  "This is really disturbing, no child need be struck with something to inflict injury out of anger.  Don't tell me this is about love or chastening, this is taking the sin of RAGE out on children."

581. Laura Lindsay, Pittsburgh, PA, USA, mama to two
  "I saw this ad in a homeschooling magazine and became literally SICKENED at the thought of a WEAPON being sold for the express purpose of beating a child.  I CANNOT believe this is legal.  You purchasers think this instrument will make your chlid respect your values and love you??  What do YOU think you're teaching them?  You're teaching them that they're not safe with you.  You're teaching them that you, who are supposed to be the one person (or two parents) on earth who should love them above all else, that you are unable to control yourself and your anger towards them.  What kind of children do you think you'll create with this??"

582. Helen Hanigan, North Andover, MA, USA, Librarian
  "The manufacture and sale of the rod must be stopped.  We try to protect children from unsafe toys.  This device goes way beyond that; it's abusive."

583. Elizabeth Young, Brooklyn, NY, USA
  "It's sad that people use the bible to justify the fact that they can't control their tempers when they are frustrated with their children and/or parenting."

584. Adrian Drake, Milwaukee, WI, USA
  "As a victim of 'righteous' abuse as a child, seeing this sent shivers down my spine.  This must be stopped."

585. Monica Vasquez, New York, NY, USA, Designer
  "The Rod will only create angry adults.  There are other ways to make money."

586. Sheila Dollard, Danvers, MA, USA
  "Great effort to stop hurting children.  Think of the impact you will have on so many.  Thanks for being courageous enough to make a difference."

587. Pamela Ramming, Hydro, OK, USA, Parent

588. Sarah Fanning, Washington, DC, USA, Editor/Punkymoms
  "This is absolutely abhorrent!  It does advocate child abuse and must be stopped!"

589. Mike Mitch, USA
  "Sends the WRONG message - not to mention the torment and pain that children do not deserve."

590. Victoria Bunch, Bamberg, SC, USA, Mother of 3
  "I never have and never will understand child abuse.  A child is to be loved and nurtured into growth of a well balanced adult not beaten and battered with a stick."

591. Michelle Butler, Dallas, TX, USA, homeschool mother,  state accredited elementary teacher
  "If the 'rod' is a literal word in the book of Proverbs, then other references in Proverbs must also be literal.  Consider the following:  
Proverbs Chapter One Wisdom calls, cries, laughs, and mocks. In chapters Eight and Nine
Wisdom walks and builds.  I wonder what she looks like if the Proverbs are literal?
Proverbs Chapters Five and Twenty-two state the mouth of an adulteress is a "deep pit"
and "drips honey."  I wonder how deep it is and if she has a drooling problem. Literal!!

Proverbs 23:2 "Put a knife to your throat if you are given to gluttony".  Wow there are
alot of fat overweight christians out there who should commit suicide. Afterall it is
literal, right?

If the five "rod" references in the Book Of Proverbs are to be literal then so must the
previous mentioned references and many, many more. Or perhaps these people who want to
use the Bible as an excuse for their criminal behavior have received some sort of divine
inspiration telling them that only the verses referring to the rod are literal.
592. Katrina Drake, Milwaukee, WI, USA
  "Whoever created this 'child training' item should be beaten with it.  What were they thinking?"

593. Teri King, Sylmar, CA, USA

594. Lindsey Jackson, Merrimack, NH, USA
  "This is a disgusting and horrifying product!!!"

595. Nicole Alley, New Haven, CT, USA
  "Must be stopped!  The sale of this should be illegal."

596. Mrs. Angela Mills, Eaton Rapids, MI, USA
  "I agree this isn't even human, I have three daughters and this 'Rod' just ticks me off!!!  I believe children need to be disciplined but not ike this at all!!!"

597. John A. S. Rogers, Portland, ME, USA, facilitator - father support group YMCA
  "The concept that somehow causing pain, fear, emotional distress, nightmares, and other trauma in children is somehow 'for their own good,' is perhaps the greatest uncivilized drivel ever invented.  I am certain that parents who use such devices--or any means employed primarily to cause pain, trauma, emotional distress, nightmares, impoverished self-image, and terror--do not see their children as people at all but rather as things--like a new automobile, a summer house, a diamond bracelet.  For these forlorn souls the child is not, of course, a person at all but an object, a possession to be displayed.  These parents' principal concern is that their child 'present a polite demeanor' or 'an attractive image' or some such crap.  I fail to understand how any person--child or adult--can possibly respect, love, admire, even tolerate someone who causes him pain and suffering.

Here's my favorite quote from Dr. Alice Miller, renowned child psychiatrist: 'We don't yet know, above all, what the world might be like if children were to grow up without being subjected to humiliation, if parents would respect them and take them seriously as persons."

598. Kate Berthelsen, Methuen, MA, USA
  "DISGUSTING"

599. April Wycherley, Havelock, NC, USA
  "I am a Pagan homeschooling mother, and there is no way I would EVER use this torture device on my children!!!!  If I were to hit a 200 pound adult with something like this, I would go to jail for aggravated assault, but it's ok to hit my 50 pound 7 year old with it??!!!  I don't think so!!  If it's ASSAULT on an adult, then surely it's ABUSE on a child!!  The Rod HAS to go!"

600. & 601. Eleanor and Buron Jaffe, Boston, MA, USA, retired school counselor and retired physician
  "This is a step backward into the dark ages.  These manufacturers and the users of the rods need education, and their children need protection.  Stop the rod."

602. Lindsay E. K. Lichtenwalter, Milwaukie, OR, USA

603. Lillian Moreno, Beeville, TX, USA
  "This is an item of torture and a similar item was used in the medieval times.  Haven't we strived to become a more rational society?"

604. Samuel K. Kelley, MD, Cohasset, MA, USA, Medical Director, Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty of Children
  "The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends alternative methods of discipline.  Dr. Benjamin Spock and the office of the U.S. Surgeon General also have advised against corporal punishment of children."

605. Rick McGuire, Austin, TX, USA
  "I think the rod should be banned as a device for punishing children.  It should only be used to punish yourself. Like McDonalds, 'I'm lovin' it!"

606. Eileen Scully, Gatineau, QC, CANADA
  "This is unbelievable!!!  Corporal punishment!  Please STOP making and selling them NOW!"

607. Terence McCorry, Boynton Beach, FL, USA, Director of Campus Ministry
  "Horrible misuse of scripture."

608. Sylvia Saunders, Ottawa, ON, CANADA
  "Children can be taught so much more with love and compassion.  Love and cherish those beautiful children.  They are a precious gift.  This rod has no part in our society.  Let us all speak up and have it abolished."

609. Jo-Anne Stasiuk, Ottawa, ON, CANADA
  "It's hard to believe that there is a market for this in 2005.  Anyone who uses such a device is committing Child Abuse indeed."

610. Sandra Jones, Ottawa, ON, CANADA
  "Totally unacceptable.  I ask that this item be banned for sale."

611. Jim Fisk, Long Beach, CA, USA
  "I was physically abused by one of my parents throughout childhood.  I have two sons, 17 and 10 years old, and both are wonderful, healthy kids with great dispositions, as well as great citizens.  My wife and I have never spanked them and do not support any form of physical expression of anger or discipline.  We controlled where the bar was set, and as a result, strong discussion is enough to impress the kids as to what is right and what is wrong behavior.  I am proof that the abuse does not have to continue from generation to generation.  That said, I have gone throu