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Open Forum Patriotism shows through service
July Fourth is one of those American holidays that evoke fond memories. It's a time for family picnics, community celebrations, fun in the sun, and of course, fireworks. It's also a time marked by patriotism, as we remember those who fought for our freedom over 200 years ago, as well as those who continue to serve on our behalf today. I know I'm not alone in saying that the sound of The Star Spangled Banner being played at a Fourth of July parade brings tears to my eyes; I consider myself blessed to live in this great country.
There is also great work being done on the local level that shows true patriotism and community service. I recently attended a very special event, the Women of Excellence awards program put on by the local Girl Scout chapter. It was the seventh annual event to celebrate five local area lakes women and their individual accomplishments. The following five women were recognized: Terri McLean for promoting diversity, Julie Guth for preparing young women of today, Kim Ellingson for strengthening our communities for tomorrow, Theresa Rardin for dedication to the Girl Scout Way and Mandi Drevlow for the young women making a difference. It was an inspirational and powerful evening as each of these women shared stories and thanks to their mentors. These women were honored for their actions and dedication to making our world a better place. Congratulations recipients and thank you for your service and dedication.
Rep. John Ward
DFL-Brainerd
The last 'free' generation
This Independence Day as you're driving your Japanese or other foreign vehicle, using your Japanese outboard motor or jet ski or Japanese ATV product, you could have bought American. But...
Please, this generation of USA (Unusually Stylish Americans) remember the other USA (Unselfish Sacrificing Americans) who came before who lived by the motto completely forgotten today, Make this a better place then when we found it.
Those who sacrificed and still sacrifice, if asked why they did or do it, would probably say, I'm doing what I am so you can do what you're doing. In other words, they do and did it for the George Washingtons and for the Benedict Arnolds of America today. I'm not calling a Japanese auto owner a Benedict Arnold, I'm just asking those who are to look in the mirror and ask how this country got into this situation. Yes, some of the reason is the American auto makers but it looks like that just an excuse to abandon them by Americans.
I don't want to see America's independence compromised by too much dependence on foreign goods when we should be supportive instead of abandoning of this wonderful country.
I love America. I just hate to see what it's been turned into. I just hope this isn't the last free generation of Americans as we know free. Uncle Sam is getting to be looking more and more like an 800-pound gorilla in our daily lives. I don't need a caretaker yet, thank you!
God bless and help America! Amen!
Stephen Heinecke
Baxter
Funnier than the comics
The story is told of a rather unsophisticated tourist touring a famous art gallery. The custodian stood nearby when the tourist said to him, These pictures don't show me muck. The custodian replied politely, Sir, the art isn't on trial here. You are!
I enjoy reading the Open Forums in the newspapers. I often find them more humorous than the comics. Most recently I've read (almost bi-weekly!) the comments by the Pine River writer, lambasting the new administration after barely 150 days for wasteful spending and referring to our new and amazingly competent President Obama as poor baby.
Let me ask, in all due respect, where have you been for the past eight years when apparently your favorite president lied to us, took us into an unwinnable war and took us from a significant surplus into a $10 trillion dollar national debt? Poor baby! Maybe you could find reason to be happy that things may well be turning around. Try listening to something other than Fox.
Nate Lundgren
Brainerd
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