Remembering Independence Day...

This year, I will take time to again thank our founding fathers for the foresight they had in crafting our Declaration of Independence. No matter how much our country swings left or right, the framers of the Declaration gave us a document that would set limits on elected officials who travel to Washington to represent us.

Those founding fathers risked their lives in service to our country two hundred and thirty three years ago, and subsequent generations have sent their young men and women to war to defend the liberties that make our country so great. We need to remember our country is great because of our people and not our politicians. Our people always remember that we are a great nation founded on great principles. Our people always ultimately do the right thing.

My father enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. This is his service photograph from 1952. He first met my mother while posted in Great Britain.

After graduation from high school in 1975, my brother enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served in the Persian Gulf on the aircraft carrier, U.S.S. Nimitz. I remember more than a few anxious hours while he was away.

Our family was lucky to have our loved ones return home. Not all families are so fortunate.

This Independence Day, enjoy the picnics and fireworks, but take time to remember the men and women who bravely serve our country every day around the world. Please offer prayers to our God asking for healing for the families who have lost loved ones in the most ultimate sacrifice.

Next time you see a service man or woman, stop to thank them for their efforts and sacrifices that allow us to speak our minds freely, sleep soundly in our beds at night, and live without fear in the best country in the world. No matter how you look at American politics these days...the United States is the most magnificent country in the world.

God Bless America

For a little Independence Day fun, click on the Blue Angels photo on the right to see the Muppets (one of our favorites) with a July 4th musical performance for you!
The first photograph is a Sarasota Herald-Tribune image of a 25' tall statue called "Unconditional Surrender". It is the work of sculptor Seward Johnson and stands on the bay front in Sarasota, FL. It's a pretty incredible sight to drive around the harbor and come "face to face" with this huge kissing couple. Many of us hope that it will remain there for the enjoyment of all.
The last photograph was taken at the Charlotte County Air Show this spring. I took this image of the Blue Angels during their performance that weekend.