CHAMPION—July 2, 2019

A lovely family visit kept some Old Champions away from their television news for a few days and it was a genuine relief. When they turn it back on they will doubtlessly be amazed at the new batch of absurdities masquerading as foreign policy. We observe Independence Day on the Fourth of July though the Continental Congress made the decision on July 2, 1776. We can only imagine what those founding fathers would think of the current state of affairs. The occasion is celebrated with pyrotechnics from China that scare our dogs and strain our many Veterans and others who suffer with post-traumatic stress syndrome. Yet those stunning displays of fireworks along with rousing music can still stir up a little patriotic fever in the hearts of the most disillusioned. Huzza.
 
 

CHAMPION—July 4, 2019

July 4, 2019 found the creek banks full of families and friends. They shared their favorite summer foods: watermelon, bratwurst, brisket, banana pudding and the like. The ‘organ recital’ of health reports was balanced out nicely with the good news of garden successes, antics and attributes of favorite dogs, travels, and the exploits and victories of children and grandchildren. Year upon year family groups and groups of families gather at this time for the joy of continuity. It satisfies the need to belong. Community, however loosely organized, is the tie that binds. As the Nation celebrates its birthday, people across the whole country are gathered on creek banks, back yards, patios and parks commiserating and struggling to dredge up confidence that democracy will survive these tumultuous days of black caviar money and the notion that only losers let the rules stop them from winning, after all, cheating is the highest form of trying. But that is not who WE are. Many are feeling nostalgia for the innocence and optimism that allowed patriotism. Down here on the wide, wild, wooly banks of Auld Fox Creek WE THE PEOPLE still sing “God Bless America” in Champion—Looking on the Bright Side!

Facebook