Independence Day

With the 4th of July just around the corner, I took the time today to read through the document without which this day would be just like any other and our lives would be unrecognizable as they are today. The Declaration of Independence was adopted by congress on July 4, 1776. It was a bold and dangerous move by a group of men dedicated to changing the status quo, to secure liberty from oppression and to form a more perfect government.

The list of grievances was long and specific. The outstanding message was that all men are equal and worthy and deserving of security and the pursuit of happiness. Driving them was the belief that they could create this government, this country where people could travel freely and safely and become greater than they began.

This document not only set in motion the formation of our own country, it eventually set the example for democracies worldwide. This document marked the beginning of something truly spectacular. Have a happy 4th of July, everyone and remember the true meaning of this day. It represents our independence. It represents our inalienable right to love and support each other. It represents the conception of the greatest nation on earth.

Nothing illustrates that vision more than watching someone you care about receive that college diploma. Linda Greenway shared this experience with us this week. On May 29th her grandson, Joel Boyd graduated from Savannah College of Art and Design. Linda, Janet Gunn (Joel's mother), his wife Christina and her mother and stepfather, Mr. and Mrs. Anderson and friend Bethany Strawn traveled to Savannah for the big day.

After the graduation ceremony they spent an enjoyable weekend seeing the sights around Savannah. Sunday on Pyvee Island was spectacular. Joel is a graduate of Rector High School and recently exhibited some of his artwork at the Helping Hands Crocket Gallery on Main Street.

The First United Methodist Church of Rector changes pastors this week. So we bid farewell to Pastor Velda Bell. She and her daughter Susie will be moving on to a church in Alma. Susie will be attending the University of Arkansas in Fort Smith in the fall. Good luck to you both. We will miss you.

Before the big change Susie and Velda took a short cruise. Five days on the Carnival ship Elation took them to Progresso and Cozumel and offered them a ton of entertainment and good food. Susie mentioned the cowboys a few times and they both raved about the comedian and ventriloquist whose name they forgot. Velda became quite accustomed to finding mints on her pillow and her bath linens folded into cute little bunnies. She is still hoping to find those things waiting for her at home. Susie hasn't taken the hint yet.

The First Annual Veterans Memorial Poker Run was a great success. Everyone seemed to have a good time and they raised some money for the memorial. Look forward to the Second Annual Poker Run next year.

Remember to order your memorial bricks for the downtown park right away if you want to see them set by Labor Day. The committee has revised its deadline for ordering these bricks to July 14th in order to guarantee they will be received and set in time. Contact Cathy Diddle for more information. 595-2300.

Let me hear from you. Write me at 514 W. 3rd St., Rector or call me. My phone number is 595-3173. Email address: porchswing@newwavecomm.net. Don't forget to say a prayer for our soldiers who are putting their lives on the line so we can enjoy the privileges set out in the Declaration of Independence 234 years ago. Happy 4th Everyone.