DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Thursday, July 04, 2013
Too Tall To Drink Here
Jack Burton, owner of Nutshell pub, has had to get creative to maximize business in his 15-foot by 7-foot establishment.The tiny pub has been certified by the Guinness Book of World Records as being the smallest in Britain. To make the most of his space, Mr. Burton had to ban a 6-foot, 7-inch customer from visiting during peak hours. Although Adam Thurkettle is a regular customer, he has to visit the pub during off-peak hours. Mr. Burton said, "Adam's a real gentle giant. But on a busy night he takes up such a lot of space that I have to turn away at least four normal-sized drinkers." Thankfully, Adam, who works as a "tree surgeon", says he understands the restriction. He said, "My size is a great advantage when moving tree trunks, but can be a handicap when I prop up the bar."
Proposed Bill That Would Have Allowed Guns Into Businesses That Serve Alcohol
On Tuesday, Illinois Governor Pat Quinn vetoed a measure that would have allowed people to bring guns into establishments that serve alcohol. During a press conference, Governor Quinn was joined by parents of gun violence victims, and said he objects to at least nine provisions in the proposed law. Republican law-makers, joined by a few Democrats that serve rural districts, passed the measure by huge majorities. If the law went into effect, it would have allowed permit holders to carry multiple guns, have no restrictions on clip size, and would have allowed weapons into some bars and restaurants. Governor Quinn said, "This is a flawed bill with serious safety problems that must be addressed." A federal appeals court recently struck down that state's ban on residents carrying concealed weapons in public, and gave lawmakers six months to draft a new law. Although the measure is currently blocked by Governor Quinn, the state legislature only needs a three-fifths majority to override his veto, and the measure has already passed by a higher margin. Gun control advocates hope lawmakers will change the bill to comply with Governor Quinn's concerns, but fear the new concealed carry measure will become Illinois law regardless.
Obama Urges Americans To Live Up To Declaration
WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Barack Obama is urging Americans on the Fourth of July to live up to the words of the Declaration of Independence by securing liberty and opportunity for their own children as well as for future generations.
In his weekly radio and online address, Obama commemorates the Fourth of July by looking back at the day in 1776 that a small band of patriots declared those in the American colonies "a people created equal" -- free to think and worship and live as they please.
Obama says their declaration was "heard around the world."
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In his weekly radio and online address, Obama commemorates the Fourth of July by looking back at the day in 1776 that a small band of patriots declared those in the American colonies "a people created equal" -- free to think and worship and live as they please.
Obama says their declaration was "heard around the world."
More
Clear Channel's United 4th Campaign In Salisbury
Barbecues, fireworks and....billboards? Allow me to make the connection - Clear Channel Outdoor has something special in store for the city of Salisbury to celebrate July 4th and unite people all over the nation. I'm hoping you can help me spread the word to get local residents involved.
From July 4 to July 7, Clear Channel Outdoor will run its United 4th campaign. In celebration of our nation's independence, CCO will light up all of its digital billboard properties in Salisbury to display verses of the National Anthem. Even better, CCO will feature a special short film on United4th.com celebrating the diversity that makes USA the great nation it is today. The film enlists the vocals of up-and-coming singer/songwriter Ingrid Michaelson.
Here's how the residents of Salisbury can get involved: Both Clear Channel Outdoor and Clear Channel Entertainment will encourage residents to share patriotic photos or videos of their friends and family singing the National Anthem on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and Vine, using the hashtag #united4th. Throughout the campaign, CCO will collect the content that is shared across these social media channels, and then post the best of the bunch to the city's billboards on July 8th.
I've included a rough cut of the feature film for your review: http://www.youtube.com/United4th
From July 4 to July 7, Clear Channel Outdoor will run its United 4th campaign. In celebration of our nation's independence, CCO will light up all of its digital billboard properties in Salisbury to display verses of the National Anthem. Even better, CCO will feature a special short film on United4th.com celebrating the diversity that makes USA the great nation it is today. The film enlists the vocals of up-and-coming singer/songwriter Ingrid Michaelson.
Here's how the residents of Salisbury can get involved: Both Clear Channel Outdoor and Clear Channel Entertainment will encourage residents to share patriotic photos or videos of their friends and family singing the National Anthem on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and Vine, using the hashtag #united4th. Throughout the campaign, CCO will collect the content that is shared across these social media channels, and then post the best of the bunch to the city's billboards on July 8th.
I've included a rough cut of the feature film for your review: http://www.youtube.com/United4th
DELAWARE RADIO STATION EXPANDS INTO LOWER EASTERN SHORE
Harrington, Delaware based 88.7 The Bridge (WKNZ-FM) is now broadcasting on a new frequency in the Salisbury/Ocean City area. The contemporary Christian music station has started simulcasting its popular programming on 87.7 FM from a transmitter and tower near Whaleysville, MD.
The expansion helps the station become truly a “Delmarva” station, according to The Bridge general manager Bill Sammons, Jr. “Our signal on the original 88.7 frequency is sometimes spotting in Salisbury, and especially in Berlin, Ocean City, Snow Hill and surrounding areas. By adding 87.7 in that area, we are now loud and clear on most of Maryland's Lower Eastern Shore and along Coastal Sussex so people can listen to The Bridge from New Castle County, Delaware south to the Virginia Line without interruption”, Sammons said.
88.7 The Bridge is a non-profit, community-supported radio station. In just two and a half years, it is established itself as a vital ministry supporting many local non-profit organizations and causes. The Bridge is also rare in today's broadcasting world, because it is live and local from 6am until 10pm every weekday.
“We exist to help connect people to each other and God, and to help strengthen individuals and families on Delmarva”, said Sammons. “Our announcers live here, shop here, worship here – and we talk about things that affect the Shore including offering local news, our own meteorologist, and special programming that is geared towards local issues.”
The Bridge also streams its programming live on the internet via its website www.887thebridge.com and it has a free smartphone app available from the iTunes store and Google Play that includes a 'Listen Live' function. The station is also on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/delmarva887thebridge.
The expansion helps the station become truly a “Delmarva” station, according to The Bridge general manager Bill Sammons, Jr. “Our signal on the original 88.7 frequency is sometimes spotting in Salisbury, and especially in Berlin, Ocean City, Snow Hill and surrounding areas. By adding 87.7 in that area, we are now loud and clear on most of Maryland's Lower Eastern Shore and along Coastal Sussex so people can listen to The Bridge from New Castle County, Delaware south to the Virginia Line without interruption”, Sammons said.
88.7 The Bridge is a non-profit, community-supported radio station. In just two and a half years, it is established itself as a vital ministry supporting many local non-profit organizations and causes. The Bridge is also rare in today's broadcasting world, because it is live and local from 6am until 10pm every weekday.
“We exist to help connect people to each other and God, and to help strengthen individuals and families on Delmarva”, said Sammons. “Our announcers live here, shop here, worship here – and we talk about things that affect the Shore including offering local news, our own meteorologist, and special programming that is geared towards local issues.”
The Bridge also streams its programming live on the internet via its website www.887thebridge.com and it has a free smartphone app available from the iTunes store and Google Play that includes a 'Listen Live' function. The station is also on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/delmarva887thebridge.
Leadership Changes In Somerset Schools
SCHOOL BOARD APPROVES LEADERSHIP STAFFING CHANGES WITHIN SOMERSET COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT CONINUES TO BE EMPHASIZED
Westover, Maryland - At the Board of Education meeting on July 2 2013, a number of leadership personnel moves was approved. Director of Technology Nancy Smoker was named Interim Assistant Superintendent of Administration for the 2013-2014 year. In addition, Smoker has worked in an advisory capacity to the finance department during a significant portion of this past year assisting and overseeing operations. Secondary Supervisor of Instruction David Elebash was appointed Interim Assistant Superintendent of Instruction for the same time period.
Washington Academy & High School Learning Support Specialist Tracey Cottman was approved by the Board to serve as the Secondary Student Support Services Supervisor filling the position made available by the retirement of Vicki Carter. Principal of Deal Island Elementary School Brandy Brady will now serve as Principal of Somerset Intermediate School assuming the position vacated by Josh Coughran who accepted the Superintendency in a school district in Alaska. Carter G. Woodson Elementary School Vice Principal Ted Gibson will become the new Principal of Deal Island Elementary School. His former position will be filled by Princess Anne Elementary School Reading Coach Ashley Walters.
In a previous Board of Education meeting prior to July 2, the Board approved the transfer of Somerset Promise Academy Principal Sidney Hankerson to the principalship at Washington Academy & High School. Hankerson will be replaced at the Somerset Promise Academy by William Johnson who served as Principal of WAHS during the 2012-2013 school year. Also, Wendy Harrison was approved as the new Chief Financial Officer filling the position held by Marvin Blye.
At the July 2 meeting, Superintendent of Schools Dr. John B. Gaddis emphasized his passion for student success. He commented on the level of professionalism he had noticed within the school system thus far among the leadership, teachers and support staff. In a communication with staff on July 3, Dr. Gaddis said, “Everywhere I have visited, people have told me about the great staff and all that has been done for their students.”
STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT CONINUES TO BE EMPHASIZED
Westover, Maryland - At the Board of Education meeting on July 2 2013, a number of leadership personnel moves was approved. Director of Technology Nancy Smoker was named Interim Assistant Superintendent of Administration for the 2013-2014 year. In addition, Smoker has worked in an advisory capacity to the finance department during a significant portion of this past year assisting and overseeing operations. Secondary Supervisor of Instruction David Elebash was appointed Interim Assistant Superintendent of Instruction for the same time period.
Washington Academy & High School Learning Support Specialist Tracey Cottman was approved by the Board to serve as the Secondary Student Support Services Supervisor filling the position made available by the retirement of Vicki Carter. Principal of Deal Island Elementary School Brandy Brady will now serve as Principal of Somerset Intermediate School assuming the position vacated by Josh Coughran who accepted the Superintendency in a school district in Alaska. Carter G. Woodson Elementary School Vice Principal Ted Gibson will become the new Principal of Deal Island Elementary School. His former position will be filled by Princess Anne Elementary School Reading Coach Ashley Walters.
In a previous Board of Education meeting prior to July 2, the Board approved the transfer of Somerset Promise Academy Principal Sidney Hankerson to the principalship at Washington Academy & High School. Hankerson will be replaced at the Somerset Promise Academy by William Johnson who served as Principal of WAHS during the 2012-2013 school year. Also, Wendy Harrison was approved as the new Chief Financial Officer filling the position held by Marvin Blye.
At the July 2 meeting, Superintendent of Schools Dr. John B. Gaddis emphasized his passion for student success. He commented on the level of professionalism he had noticed within the school system thus far among the leadership, teachers and support staff. In a communication with staff on July 3, Dr. Gaddis said, “Everywhere I have visited, people have told me about the great staff and all that has been done for their students.”
RESTORE THE FOURTH
Restore the Fourth is a grassroots, non-partisan, non-violent movement that seeks to organize and assemble nationwide protests on July 4th, 2013. Protesters in over 100 cities across America will gather to demand that the government of the United States of America adhere to its constitutionally dictated limits and respect the Fourth Amendment. http://www.RestoretheFourth.net provides a detailed list of protest locations.
Restore the Fourth maintains that justification of the Fourth Amendment beyond the original text need not be given; the legitimacy of which is self-evident. “The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized.” The Fourth Amendment of the Bill of Rights clearly protects all citizens’ assets, both digital and physical, against searches and seizures without warrant; they aim to assert those rights. They insist that the proper channels of government work to ensure that all policy complies with the supreme laws of the United States of America in their entirety.
Restore the Fourth requests that American citizens’ right to privacy is respected and stands with the Electronic Frontier Foundation and StopWatching.us on their open letter to Congress. As informed members of the American electorate, they endorse and echo the letter’s demands.
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Restore the Fourth maintains that justification of the Fourth Amendment beyond the original text need not be given; the legitimacy of which is self-evident. “The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized.” The Fourth Amendment of the Bill of Rights clearly protects all citizens’ assets, both digital and physical, against searches and seizures without warrant; they aim to assert those rights. They insist that the proper channels of government work to ensure that all policy complies with the supreme laws of the United States of America in their entirety.
Restore the Fourth requests that American citizens’ right to privacy is respected and stands with the Electronic Frontier Foundation and StopWatching.us on their open letter to Congress. As informed members of the American electorate, they endorse and echo the letter’s demands.
More
Fireworks Canceled Tonight In Hebron
Troopers Step Up Patrols For July 4th Holiday Weekend Travel Safety
Dover- The Delaware State Police will be out in full force patrolling the roadways this July 4th holiday weekend to ensure that everyone is driving with due care and offering assistance to motorists in need. The Delaware State Police Maritime Unit’s “Marine One” will be operating on Delaware’s waterways to ensure safety and security.
“As we take time this July 4th holiday weekend to celebrate our Nation’s freedom, we must not forget the dangers that can arise from traveling on our roadways,” said Sergeant Paul G. Shavack, Director of Public Information for the Delaware State Police. “The Delaware State Police would like to wish everyone an enjoyable but SAFE July 4th holiday!”
Troopers intend to reduce traffic fatalities and serious injuries on our highways during this July 4th holiday weekend. Troopers will be focusing on pedestrian safety and enforcement, distracted driving, motorists not wearing seat belts, unrestrained children in vehicles, and any aggressive driving behaviors such as speeding, following too close, and especially, driving under the influence.
By following these easy steps, a driver can enjoy a safe holiday weekend travel without jeopardizing their life or the lives of others who may be on the road:
Ensure all occupants of are properly restrained
Plan a safe way home before the festivities begin
Before drinking, please designate a sober driver and give that person your keys
If you’re impaired, use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation so you are sure to get home safely
If you see a drunk or aggressive driver on the road, immediately contact 911 as soon as safely possible.
If you know someone who is about to drive while impaired, take their keys and help them make other arrangements to get to where they are going safely.
“As we take time this July 4th holiday weekend to celebrate our Nation’s freedom, we must not forget the dangers that can arise from traveling on our roadways,” said Sergeant Paul G. Shavack, Director of Public Information for the Delaware State Police. “The Delaware State Police would like to wish everyone an enjoyable but SAFE July 4th holiday!”
Troopers intend to reduce traffic fatalities and serious injuries on our highways during this July 4th holiday weekend. Troopers will be focusing on pedestrian safety and enforcement, distracted driving, motorists not wearing seat belts, unrestrained children in vehicles, and any aggressive driving behaviors such as speeding, following too close, and especially, driving under the influence.
By following these easy steps, a driver can enjoy a safe holiday weekend travel without jeopardizing their life or the lives of others who may be on the road:
Ensure all occupants of are properly restrained
Plan a safe way home before the festivities begin
Before drinking, please designate a sober driver and give that person your keys
If you’re impaired, use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation so you are sure to get home safely
If you see a drunk or aggressive driver on the road, immediately contact 911 as soon as safely possible.
If you know someone who is about to drive while impaired, take their keys and help them make other arrangements to get to where they are going safely.
Liberals Blame GOP, Fox, Drudge in Obamacare Fiasco
The pro-Obama media watchdog Media Matters Wednesday, defending the administration's surprise move to cancel implementation of major elements of Obamacare, said that Republicans were to blame and accused conservative media leaders like Fox News and the Drudge Report for ignoring the GOP's role.
In a release, the liberal group said that Fox and Drudge instead charged that the one-year delay was political with the goal of pushing off the expected initial implementation disaster until after the 2014 elections.
"Fox News and the Drudge Report are ignoring years of Republicans obstructing the implementation of health care reform to accuse the Obama administration of delaying the law for political gain, in the process dismissing the fact that businesses are praising the administration's move," said Media Matters.
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In a release, the liberal group said that Fox and Drudge instead charged that the one-year delay was political with the goal of pushing off the expected initial implementation disaster until after the 2014 elections.
"Fox News and the Drudge Report are ignoring years of Republicans obstructing the implementation of health care reform to accuse the Obama administration of delaying the law for political gain, in the process dismissing the fact that businesses are praising the administration's move," said Media Matters.
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OC Bike Fest Promoter Buys Delmarva Bike Week
OCEAN CITY – After a couple years of having two competing motorcycle events in the region, OC Bikefest and Delmarva Bike Week have become one.
On Monday evening, Cliff Sutherland of OC Jams LLC came before the Mayor and City Council to give a brief update on the upcoming event, OC Bikefest, scheduled for Sept. 12-15.
During his presentation, Sutherland quickly mentioned OC Jams LLC had purchased Delmarva Bike Week in the beginning of March.
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On Monday evening, Cliff Sutherland of OC Jams LLC came before the Mayor and City Council to give a brief update on the upcoming event, OC Bikefest, scheduled for Sept. 12-15.
During his presentation, Sutherland quickly mentioned OC Jams LLC had purchased Delmarva Bike Week in the beginning of March.
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Ocean City Boardwalk Gets Crafty
But with a brand new brewery open on the boardwalk at 10th Street — Shorebilly Brewing Co. — this craft beer enthusiast had no choice but to spend at least one evening doing a little “research” for the Maryland Business blog.
Shorebilly is small, with seven outdoor tables taking up a thin swath of real estate between Shopper’s Paradise and Hammerheads — a prime spot for people watching.
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Don’t Have A Special Case To Protect Your Electronics On The Beach? A Plastic Bag Will Do
Our stalwart colleagues at Consumer Reportsare all about testing out the best options there are. As such, they stacked up specialty bags offering maximum protection for your electronics against a Hefty Slider bag, and found that the grocery store staple did just as well as its pricier pals.
The Hefty Slider bag ($0.10 to $0.13 depending on size) was pitted against the DryCase, and larger DryCase Tablet ($29 and $38, respectively); the TrendyDigital WaterGuard Waterproof Case ($16); the Seattle Sports Dry Doc Waterproof e-Tablet Case ($16); and the Lavod LMB-011 Waterproof Bag ($19).
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Northbeach Gets Ready For Record-Breaking Fireworks
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BREITBART NEWS BROADCAST FROM 'GETTYSBURG 150'
Click HERE
After Taking the Fifth, Lois Lerner Wants Immunity Over IRS Scandal
Surprise surprise. After making an opening statement during a congressional hearing weeks ago on the IRS targeting of conservative groups and then pleading the fifth, Lois Lerner wants immunity. As a reminder, Lerner is the head of tax exempt organizations for the IRS and admitted the agency inappropriately targeted conservative groups between 2010 and 2012 after being asked a planted question at a conference. She has been put on paid administrative leave for the summer.
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‘SUPERHERO’ HUSBAND HOGTIES BURGLAR, LEAVES HIM IN THE YARD FOR POLICE AND GOES TO WORK AS PLANNED
On Wednesday morning, Cole set his plan to break into an area home into motion. However, things didn’t go according to plan.
While attempting to break into the home, Cole was “bum-rushed” by the homeowner. The homeowner, who was described as a “superhero” by his wife, then hogtied the suspected burglar, left him in the front yard for police and went to work.
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Immigrants Account For All Job Gains Since 2000: Native-Born Workers’ Employment Has Fallen
Immigrants — both legal and illegal — have accounted for all of the job gains in the U.S. labor market since 2000, according to a report that highlights the stiff competition for jobs in a tight economy as Congress debates adding more workers to the mix.
The Center for Immigration Studies report, which is being released Wednesday, says 22.4 million immigrants of working age held jobs at the beginning of this year, up 5.3 million over the total in 2000. But native-born workers with jobs dropped 1.3 million over that same period, from 114.8 million to 113.5 million.
Meanwhile, the number of Americans who aren’t in the labor force at all has jumped by almost 13 million to reach 48.6 million — a finding the report’s authors say signals profound changes in the American job market and challenges conventional wisdom that immigration is good for the economy.
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The Center for Immigration Studies report, which is being released Wednesday, says 22.4 million immigrants of working age held jobs at the beginning of this year, up 5.3 million over the total in 2000. But native-born workers with jobs dropped 1.3 million over that same period, from 114.8 million to 113.5 million.
Meanwhile, the number of Americans who aren’t in the labor force at all has jumped by almost 13 million to reach 48.6 million — a finding the report’s authors say signals profound changes in the American job market and challenges conventional wisdom that immigration is good for the economy.
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Violence Rages in Baltimore Despite O'Malley's New Gun Control Laws
Fast forward to June and we've seen the violence in Maryland continue. It is important to note that before O'Malley signed new gun control laws in May, Maryland already had some of the strictest gun laws in the country and also some of the worst violence in its big cities. Baltimore was bad and now, it's getting worse.
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Hemp flag to fly over US Capitol on July 4
An American flag made of industrial hemp will fly over the U.S. Capitol on Independence Day.Democratic Rep. Jared Polis of Colorado announced Wednesday that his request for the hemp-made flag was granted.
Polis has long pushed for the plant to be legal for farmers to grow. Industrial hemp looks much like marijuana but does not have its psychoactive properties. Federal law prohibits growing hemp, but not importing it.
Historians say the first American flags were made of hemp, which was raised by George Washington and Thomas Jefferson.
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Happy 4th Of July!
I PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE TO THE
FLAG,
OF THE UNITED
STATES OF AMERICA ,
AND TO THE REPUBLIC, FOR
WHICH IT STANDS,
ONE
NATION UNDER GOD,
INDIVISIBLE,
WITH LIBERTY
AND JUSTICE FOR ALL!
FLAG,
OF THE UNITED
STATES OF AMERICA ,
AND TO THE REPUBLIC, FOR
WHICH IT STANDS,
ONE
NATION UNDER GOD,
INDIVISIBLE,
WITH LIBERTY
AND JUSTICE FOR ALL!
KEEP IT LIT!!
For all of our other military personnel, where ever they may be.
Please
Support all of the troops defending our Country.
And God Bless our Military
who are protecting our Country for our Freedom.
Thanks to them, and their sacrifices, we can celebrate the 4th of July.
We must never forget who gets the credit for the freedoms we have,
of which we should be eternally grateful.
I watched the flag pass by one day.
It fluttered in the breeze.
A young Marine saluted it,
And then he stood at ease.
I looked at him in uniform;
so young, so tall, so proud.
With hair cut square and eyes alert,
he'd stand out in any crowd.
had fallen through the years.
How many died on foreign soil;
how many mothers' tears?
How many died at sea?
How many foxholes were soldiers' graves?
NO, FREEDOM ISN'T FREE !
I heard the sound of Taps one night,
when everything was still.
I listened to the bugler play
And felt a sudden chill.
I wondered just how many times
That Taps had meant 'Amen.'
When a flag had draped a coffin
of a brother or a friend.
I thought of all the children,
of the mothers and the wives,
of fathers, sons and husbands
With interrupted lives.
I thought about a graveyard
At the bottom of the sea.
Of unmarked graves in Arlington ..
NO FREEDOM ISN'T FREE
and
God Bless Our Troops.
When you receive this,
please stop for a moment
and say a prayer for our servicemen.
Of all the gifts you could give a U.S. Soldier, prayer is the very best one.