Wild at the White House WHEN PRESIDENTIAL PETS WENT OFF-LEASH
Presidential pets are usually the picture of tradition, like all-American pups and Capitol-ready cats. But every so often in history, the White House menagerie takes a walk on the wild side. From a hippo too big to officially step foot in the Oval Office to Roosevelt’s mini zoo, our commanders-in-chief have had a surprising cabinet of animal companions over the years. BILLY THE HIPPO President Calvin Coolidge was an avid animal lover, and his critters weren’t your typical pets. Along with dogs and cats, he had two lion cubs named Tax Reduction and Budget Bureau, a raccoon he was gifted on Thanksgiving, and a black bear. But the real leader of the pack was a pygmy hippopotamus named Billy. The little giant was a gift from Firestone Tire and Rubber Company in 1927. Too big to stay at the White House, the family sent Billy to the National Zoo. The hippo was a hit among visitors and lived out his days at the zoo until he passed in 1955. ROOSEVELT’S PECULIAR PACK Known as a dedicated naturalist and a lifelong hunter, President Theodore Roosevelt brought his passion for wildlife into the Executive Mansion. During his time in office, he cared for at least 40 animals. Among his strange pets were a couple of talkative parrots, a snake named Emily Spinach, Josiah the badger, a one-legged rooster, bears, a zebra, a pig, and many more. The family also owned five guinea pigs and multiple horses. Teddy’s favorite of the bunch was his horse, Bleistein, whom he called courageous and good-natured. SURPRISE ALLIGATOR When the French revolutionary hero, the Marquis de La Fayette, visited the White House in 1825, he had a scaly surprise for the president. He bestowed an actual alligator on John Quincy Adams. The unusual pet lived in a bathtub of the then unfinished East Room for several months. As the legend goes, Adams got a kick out of shocking unsuspecting guests by leading them into the room with the alligator on tours.
THE FINANCIAL WAKE- UP CALL OF DIVORCE PREPARING FOR THE FINANCIAL SIDE OF DIVORCE Along with the emotions that come with a marriage ending, serious financial implications and questions arise in a divorce. You may find yourself worrying about budgets, legal fees, or how you will continue to provide for yourself and your children. While every divorce is unique, understanding the financial side of what’s next can help you be more prepared through the process. THE COST OF LIVING ON YOUR OWN One of the biggest financial shifts with a separation is starting a new, independent life. You will likely be looking for a new home or apartment, or managing the everyday costs of a home with your own income instead of two. It can cause financial strain, and there are a couple of common options for the home itself. Exes may sell the home and divide the profits, maintain joint custody, or buy the other’s share. LEGAL FEES The divorce process itself also has costs to consider as you plan for your next chapter. The final price tag can vary significantly depending on how continuous the relationship is, which assets are involved, and whether you have children together. In Florida, each person will likely be responsible for their own lawyer fees if they have comparable assets and incomes. However, if one spouse has an obviously superior financial position, they may be responsible for all or a portion of their spouse’s reasonable fees. Working with a lawyer can greatly improve your outcomes, and they can discuss what you might expect in terms of expenses. A SEPARATE SPENDING PLAN During this major life transition, it’s essential to create a spending plan for yourself and be mindful of your expenses. Think about your share of assets, your individual income, and any support you may be receiving from your ex. Your immediate post- divorce needs may include large purchases, such as a new living space, a vehicle, or even new furniture. One of the biggest fears people have in leaving a marriage is how they will be able to afford it. With the right planning and working with an experienced attorney, you can make the change you need without going broke. Contact Bruce Law Firm to schedule a consultation.
Pets have kept presidents company since George Washington, with most of them bringing their four- legged friends to the White House.
The most curious critters to call the Oval Office home seemed to be wildly unconcerned about party lines.
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