Mom's Corner - Patriotic Duty...

I once taught with a lady that believed it was “our patriotic duty to have kids and to raise them right.” Each day at lunch in the workroom she would drone on in reference to this belief. In fact, she even said that it was because of this belief that she entered the education profession! At the time I was not married, surely did not have kids, and thought this woman was perhaps the craziest person I had ever met.

I just could not see the act of having kids as being any sort of “patriotic duty,” and “raising them right” might be one of the many things I was to help do as an educator and I surely hoped to do as a parent, but, again, a patriotic duty to do this? Not so much I thought.

It just seemed to me that this lady had taken this perspective a little too far…
Since then, this crazy lady has retired, and I wonder if she is even still with us. I have changed a little too…been in education ten years, almost finished two advanced degrees, become the mother to four...You know, times have changed for me!
So, the other day I was standing in Target, all of my kids having some sort of melt-down, looking at American flags when I could not help but to recall those many workroom lunches with the crazy lady and her speeches on “patriotic duty.” I will admit, I laughed out loud as I recollected. And then I thought: “If this is really one of my patriotic duties, I am a horribly bad American!” I had just told the 8 year old that he earned the right to ride in the cart until we left the store (yes, he is too old for that), threatened to take away the 4-year-old’s twenty favorite toys, mortified the 10-year-old just by correcting him in public, and resolved myself to the fact that the baby was going to scream until I was good and ready to leave Target! Oh yea, I am a fine American!

Yet, as I stood there with a brightly colored American flag in hand, I could not help but to think: “Here I am raising kids in the greatest country in the world, and as their mother, it is my duty to teach them about and instill in them patriotism – a devout love - for this great nation.”

While I am sure each generation sings the same song about their predecessors, when I think about my children and how I have raised them thus far, I fear they do not have the same understanding or pride in what it means to be an American as I did at their age (those many, many years ago).

Case-in-point…Standing there in Target with the American flag in hand my 4-year-old asks, “Mommy why do you want to get that flag? We can find a prettier one!” To which the 8-year-old promptly replies, “Because it is an American flag and you were born in America.” The 8-year-old had a point, but he was totally missing the mark on what it really means to be an American.

I did not throw the flag in my cart…Instead, I held it close to my heart as we headed towards the checkout line. It was at that moment that I decided it was time for me to start anew with my patriotic teachings to my children, and I as a parent needed desperately to reframe the meaning of what it means to be an American for my children.

Ten years later I finally understood just a little of what that crazy lady preached about each and every day at lunch!

I am going to be honest, I do not know exactly what I am going to do to portray my American pride or to open their eyes to the greatness of this fine nation to my children. I do not have a master plan…

Instead, I am finding every teachable moment I can. On our way to school we look for American flags; we play counting games with the numbers of stars; when we put the flag in our yard we talked about proper display; when the news comes on and they speak about our troops, we expand on the conversation; we say prayers for our country…Have any other ideas?

With that, I hope you and your family enjoy the 4th of July, and on this anniversary of the birth of our great nation, may you take time to appreciate it and those that have given the greatest sacrifice for it…and spend some time with our youngest Americans so that they might grow to have the same pride and heart for their country.

We thought it fitting to for this month’s local business spotlight to be on a true American Icon. Harley-Davidson is as much a part of this great nation as baseball, apple pie, or 4th of July fireworks. There is no mistaking a Harley, in fact, most people don’t even need to see the actual bike to identify a Harley, the patented engine sound serves as sufficient identification. Further, the sound is so unique that some gifted individuals can even divulge the model, only by sound alone! Harley-Davidson is integrated into everyday American life on many different levels, all which are guaranteed to speed the throttle of the senses.

With roots dating back to the turn of the century, Harley-Davidson’s first motorcycle was blueprinted in 1901 by William S. Harley and Arthur Davidson. In 1903, the bike was engineered in a 10’x15’ wooden shed. From these humble (and 100% American) beginnings, Harley-Davidson has grown into much more than an international and worldwide motorcycle manufacturing company. For many people, Harley is recognized by the trademarked bar and shield logo and is a way of life. This culture encompasses what they drive, where they eat and hang out, and even the clothes they wear. Inclusion a very important part of the Harley culture. There is a Harley for everyone, in all walks of life and the people that ride are surprisingly welcoming. Even if you feel that you are not quite up for a coast to coast Road King ride, there are plenty of other niches that you will find within the Harley society. Although some of the usual suspects may seem a little rough around the edges and a bit intimidating, Harley driven rallies and festivals are exactly where you will meet some of the nicest and most honest people in the world.

Independence Harley-Davidson is the Bryan/College Station gateway into the Harley World. The first time I stopped by to simply look around, I was surprised to find much more than just a stereotypical motorcycle shop. Although, the mechanics, options, grease and gears are definitely present in the shop, the retail and merchandise store holds more than enough Harley-Davidson paraphernalia to catch the attention of all potential shoppers. Whether you are in the market for a brand new tricked out Rocker C, or you are looking to buy a simple gift for your new baby niece, Independence Harley-Davidson has what you need. A full line of clothing, products, gifts, and riding equipment comprises more than half of the store. True to the welcoming environment that Harley promotes, the staff is friendly, helpful, and not overbearing. If you not yet stopped by, you really should take a minute a do so. The full line of motorcycles is always impressive and Independence almost always has something of special interest gracing the showroom floor. My personal favorite was a motorcycle once owned by the Governor, signed by every living United States Congressional Medal of Honor recipient. There was something so incredibly patriotic about a piece of precision American steel signed by true American Heroes that it gave me goose bumps. The qualified sales staff encourages you to climb on a bike of your interest and see how it feels (Congressional Bike excluded, of course). They will also listen to your interests, evaluate your level of riding, and help you find one that fits what you want. Of course the staff will inform you on the model, but also in most cases let you in on interesting bit of history about that particular model and how it fits into the Harley-Davidson family. A fair warning, you might be surprised at the feelings that might stir while sitting atop a Harley. The “open road” songs that pop into your head, the sudden desire for a wardrobe of leather and bandanas, the sudden urge for a new tattoo... Even if you thought you weren’t a candidate for membership to this unique culture- you might end up as the newest proud member of the Harley Society!

If Sport Bikes are more your style, you need to check out the full line of Buell Motorcycles offered by Independence. Buell is an American company with a total 200 employees (a wholly owned subsidiary of Harley-Davidson) turning out some of the most innovative, stylish, and quickest bikes on the market. At recent competitions, Buell has been climbing the winner’s podiums while import motorcycle companies have been scratching their heads. Do you think you know where the fuel tank or oil pan is located on a sport bike? You might want to ask an Independence Rep just be certain.
Beyond bikes and swag, Independence Harley Davidson also holds numerous entertaining events at their location and throughout the Brazos Valley. They regularly hold motorcycle shows, car shows, bike-washes, parties and live music events. Last year, Independence brought a special concert to celebrate their 105th anniversary the Texas Hall of Fame, featuring the Georgia Satellites. Ticket prices were only $1.05! The next event will be the 4th of July festivities that will be going on all day at the dealership, complete with your chance to get a scratch off ticket to win a Harley-Davidson FATBOY! Some other upcoming events include an Astros H.O.G. (Harley Owner Group) Day, held at Minute Maid Park July 26th. October 3rd Independence HD and the Texas Hall of Fame are celebrating Customer Appreciation by presenting David Allen Coe. August 15th the Congressional Bike will revisit the Independence show room, don’t miss this opportunity. Lastly, this year will also mark the 21st annual Toy Drive ride.

Harley is a very special and unique part of our American Culture. American Owned, American Made, American Proud. The Brazos Valley is richer for having Independence Harley Davidson in our area. Go and see what they can introduce you to, see what doors might be opened and new experiences lie ahead….Let’s Ride.

Independence Harley Davidson is located at 4101 Texas HWY 6 South - (979)690-1669 - www.independencehd.com

Energy Supplements.....by David MaretHouse

Energy Supplements

By David MaretHouse - Master Fitness Trainer, Owner of MaretHouse Fitness & Co-owner of JD Max Fitness

Many people use energy supplements for reasons ranging from wanting an extra boost through their workout to helping them study for a test or prepare a last minute presentation or project. Unfortunately, the main ingredient of most energy drinks and supplements, caffeine, can have many negative side effects when they contain much higher doses than what is normally recommended.

The recommended intake of caffeine is to not exceed 300 milligrams per day, which translates to approximately 2 to 3 cups of coffee. Most energy supplements have what is called a proprietary matrix, which consists of a number of different chemicals, usually including caffeine. The trick behind these proprietary matrixes is that they have a total amount for all chemical included, but they do not list the individual amount of each chemical. Many of the supplements that use these matrixes actually have their caffeine content at 300 milligrams per serving, with as many as 2 to 4 servings per bottle. Now that is a lot of caffeine!

Caffeine in excess doses can cause insomnia, nervousness, anxiety, irritability, nausea or other gastrointestinal problems, a fast or irregular heartbeat, headaches, calcium loss leading to osteoporosis, and in extreme cases, miscarriage and even death. A caffeine overdose is not an easy feat; however, a lethal dose of caffeine is more than 10 grams, which is equivalent to drinking 80 to 100 cups of coffee consecutively. Certain medications and supplements can intensify the potency and effects of caffeine, which can lessen the dose needed to experience negative side effects.

A great alternative to caffeine as an energy booster is a vitamin B complex. You can find this formula in both liquid and pill form at just about any supplement store or pharmacy section in a grocery store. B vitamins are water soluble so you are not at risk of building up toxic levels in the body. A vitamin B complex help by giving the user more energy, alertness and is not accompanied with the many negative side effects as found with caffeine.

Obviously, the best way to fight fatigue is to get enough rest and eat a well balanced diet, but if you feel like you need an extra boost to get you through the day, or workout, try to stick with your cup of coffee or reach for a vitamin B complex pill or shot.

We at MaretHouse Fitness love to help our community. Our staff is dedicated to your health and wellbeing. If you have any fitness or wellness related questions, do not hesitate to contact us. Send an email to info@marethouse.com and we will reply to your question within 48 hours. I may even post your questions and our reply in the upcoming issue of AYC in my fitness and wellness section.

Welcome to July!!!

With everything that has recently been going on, it sometimes is easy to over look how great we have it as citizens of the United States. Beyond political indifferences, beyond deficit and recession news lines, beyond pollution and war-time arguments, the United States of America is the greatest country in the world…bar none. Honestly, where would you rather call home or raise your children or grandchildren? No doubt we are in a challenging, interesting, and trying time, but keep in mind that these challenges provide an excellent opportunities for the nation to pull together and once again show the world why we are the best.

Speaking of coming together, July is the month when we celebrate our patriotic pride through community gatherings, backyard BBQs, and of course beautiful firework displays. As residents of the Bryan/College Station area, we are fortunate to have numerous opportunities to spend time with family, neighbors, and friends and we have compiled some of these in our Family Event section. Take advantage of these opportunities and let those around you know how much you appreciate them and their company. Be sure to drink enough water and stay hydrated if outdoors for any extended amount of time. This recent rash of 100+ degree weather can act fast on our bodies, especially the little ones, so please pack some extra H2O when heading out. Sunscreen is also essential this part of the year. Numerous skin problems, some very severe, can be easily avoided with this simple precaution.

Harley-Davidson is a true American Icon. In this issue we take a look at our own Bryan/College Station gateway into the Harley world, Independence Harley-Davidson. Independence HD offers our area much more than you might expect from a motorcycle dealership. Take a minute to read this month’s Local Business Spotlight to learn a little more about this unique company and how they are much more than chrome and steel.

There are news reports cropping up everywhere of the economy finally turning around! Check out the BCS area’s recent housing sales and trends. Sherry Perry of Town and Country Real Estate has done a wonderful job of compiling these facts for inclusion in this month’s Home Sweet Home feature. Moms and Dads, keep Powersports in mind if you need some fun, quality, daytime supervision for your kids during these summer months. The Powersports Summer Day Camp is in full swing and eager to help. Pre-registration is NEVER required! Just come as you please, drop them off in the morning and look forward to your kids telling you about the great time they had later that night. Lastly, the heat is not only rough on us, but also strains our cars. Swing by Sevciks Service Center or Kwik Kar Sevice Center on Rock Prairie and let them reassure you that your vehicle is prepared for the hot months ahead.

As always, we greatly appreciate the readers of Active Youth and Community. Please keep in mind that AYC has been created as your community publication and we always want to hear from you. If you know of an event, article, or anything that should be included in AYC, please drop us an email at ads@aycmag.com. Until then, stay cool, stay hydrated, and remember to water the grass!!

Geoff Spahr Publisher- Active Youth and Community Magazine, College Station

Operation LOVE Reunited

Operation LOVE reunited
www.oplove.org

If you have ever been through a military deployment, there are no words to explain how hard it is to send the father or mother of your children off to some foreign, dangerous land, leaving you all behind…. Alone. It’s indescribable to watch their faces light up as their mother or father comes up the stairs of the airport after months, possibly a year or more, of not hugging each other. Emotions fly through the main lobby, it’s so very good to have them home. Your base’s Family Support Squadron will help you with your deployment. But the last thing on your mind when your wife or husband arrives home after a 4 to 18 month tour, is capturing all this love– on film. Most people are so overwhelmed with emotions they forget to simply point and shoot the camera they are grasping of their child’s first hug, or that single tear of relief from a mother being able to hold her twenty year old son again. With the help of Operation: Love ReUnited and local photographers near your base, you can.

The Operation helps those long months go by a little faster. It’s designed to capture moments that you will never remember. It’s art. It’s love. And it’s all made possible by artists wanting to give something back to those who make the United States what it is, and ask for nothing in return- but to come home.

If you are a member or family member of the United States Military, and are interested in having very special and touching images with a patriotic edge taken of you and/or your family before a deployment or during, and at your reunion, please check our website to locate a photographer in your area: www.oplove.org. You will receive a substantial package as a gift in appreciation for all you have been through as a military member. The package will always include a 4x6 album of pre-deployment images, such as a child’s hand clasped in his parent’s with the faint glimpse of a BDU sleeve, a marine in dress with his family, a salior with his parents right before departure, or a child playing dress up in combat boots and a helmet. The album will be sent to the deployed soldier by the photographer, at no cost to you. Also with your package, all session fees will be waived. Your photographer may have a designated package or other options for Operation: Love ReUnited participants at their discretion with a signed model release.

About Pre-Deployment & Deployment Sessions:
OpLove Pre-Deployment & Deployment sessions help you say goodbye and cope with being away. Anyone who has had to see their husband or wife, son, daughter, sister or brother off to war knows how hard it is to watch them walk away from you. Our photographers are part of the program as volunteers. They feel your pain, many of them being military spouses or family members themselves, they want to listen, they want to help ease your worries, they want to do what they can to help you through this deployment, and we do that with photography. Your initial session will be either with your spouse before he or she deploys dressed in their dress uniform or BDUs for most of the session, or if you find OpLove after your loved one has deployed, your session will be done without your loved one keeping a patriotic theme that could include dress, hats, BDUs, boots and other military gear, but they will still experience all the love & benefits that OpLove has to offer.

About Returning Sessions:
When your loved one comes home from a deployment, the last thought on your mind will be your camera. Most people are so overwhelmed with emotions, they simply forget they are holding it in their hand. Once you find out about the time your loved one is to return from his or her deployment, please let your photographer know. They will want to accompany your family to the welcoming home of your spouse or loved one, and capture that first glimpse, that first embrace, and all the love that surrounds every person who walks off that plane, into their families arms.

Fabulous Fridays at the Fairy Godmother!

We have four themes for Fabulous Fridays at The Fairy Godmother. This Friday is the Royal Ball. This is a DROP AND LEAVE thing (so you can have FUN!). Girls will have a fabulous time with dress-up, dancing, singing, and games. All meals and drinks are provided.

Price: $35/girl

Reservation required: 693-3030

You can pay however you wish (cc or cash) the day of.

Hours: 5PM - 9PM each Friday.

Sibling discount: $5 per girl

Children must be potty trained.

The Royal Ball:
Friday, June 19th 5 PM – 9 PM
Suitable for ages 3-6, as long as potty trained.
Dress up in pearls, gowns, and shoes.
A princess will perform a magical make-over of hair, make-up, and painted nails.
Have a real Tea Party
Princess Crafts and games
Princess story time
Fashion Show for parents at 8:40 PM
Dinner, drinks, and snacks provided.

Motivation....by David MaretHouse

Motivation is a variable that I deal with on an hour to hour basis with my clients. I have people convey such motivations as wanting to lose unwanted body fat gained from pregnancy, or yearning to look their best for a nearing class reunion or wedding. Some individuals need a simple stress relief from work or would like to be able to keep up with the endless energy of their children or grandchildren. People are often motivated by what I call “short term” goals, or “superficial” goals, and lose sight of the overall importance of what healthy living really means.

Now above and beyond the “short term” goals, let’s take a look at two of the major beneficial factors of implementing healthy lifestyle choices.

1st - Exercise and healthy eating habits can add ten or more QUALITY years to your life. What is that worth to you? Really……think about that for a second. You can spend more time with your loved ones, see your grandchildren and great grandchildren live and grow, and experience this playground we call earth for a while more.

2nd - Your quality of life increases after the 1st day! Yes, despite what some say, you see immediate results after implementing healthy lifestyle habits. You have more energy, you sleep better and more soundly, your stress level is diminished, your libido increases, your self confidence increases, and your overall outlook on life is improved. Now who in their right mind would not want all of that?!

Many people establish healthy lifestyle habits for “short term” reasons; however, if you focus on the above mentioned long term benefits, then all the short term benefits naturally fall into place.

As you read this, take the time out to think about your own health and wellness. Are you happy with your current state of health? Have you really given thought to how you feel your health will be in five years? We are all in the same predicament of hectic days, getting our kids to and from school, getting to the grocery store and having meals prepared. Make YOU a priority, be a role model for your children and loved ones, and take care of yourself. Find your motivation right now and make plans for tomorrow to start your journey to a better life. If you have already embarked on your journey, let this simply be a reminder of why you should never dock. I wish you all well on your journey to change.



http://marethouse.com/

Mom's Corner -- Daddy's Day

by Taylor Coker

Daddy’s Day

Granted, this is supposed to be a Mom’s corner, and yes, I am aware of that. But, with Father’s Day quickly approaching, I simply could not resist the urge to write about and/or for all of the Dads that might be reading. And, with that, I further could not resist the urge to write about the greatest father I know…my husband!

So, let me fill you in on a little about him...By profession, he is an educator. He loves coaching, but because varsity sports consume a great deal of time, the fact that I was still working full-time and going to grad school, that he worked best with a particular group of students, and because he simply desired more time at home with the family, he has found his heart at the middle school level.

I knew him for years before we dated and married, and I pretty much could not stand him for most of that time. He is my foil, and I simply could not accept that anyone could approach things so differently than I. As I reflect now on why I really fell in love with him, it was not because of his stunning good looks, his charming personality, his witty sense of humor, his passion for life, his sense of adventure, his overwhelming spontaneity, his thought-provoking wisdom, his devout loyalty, or his love for his Lord. (I still did not like him despite all of these positive traits!) Rather, I fell in love with the way that he exemplifies, all of these things as a father.

I thought about telling you all that it is because of my awesomeness as a wife that my husband is such and incredible father, but, I humbly admit that it is because of his awesomeness as a husband that I am really a better mother.

There is an old cliché that behind every successful man there is a supportive wife, and while I cannot particularly disclaim that, I can offer that the opposite is equally true: Behind every successful woman there is a tremendously supportive husband.

Granted, I may not be all that “successful” to some, but I know with certainty that I would never be half the woman – much less mother - I am without him.

Perhaps I should explain...Some say that I have “issues.” I am extremely OCD, tend not to be graceful in stressful situations, etc. Take, for example, this evening…I turned my back while the kids were in the tub, and the 4-year-old fell not once, but twice, acquiring a black eye, a cut forehead and a gigantic knot on the back of his head. I, of course, overreact and fight the overwhelming urge to cry as guilt consumes me. I bellow for help, he walks in calmly, embraces the little one and me, and assures us both that all is really okay.

He also does all sorts of other things for the children and in support of me that make me a better mother, remind me daily why I fell in love with him, and affirm that he is truly an amazing dad… He always has chocolate milk ready for the little ones when they wake up, rarely grinches when he sorts the never-ending piles of socks, volunteers to make midnight trips to the store, and is solely in charge of cooking a gourmet dinner on a budget each evening. He helps the dramatic scheduling of 4 busy children between assisting with baths, studying spelling words, giving the dreaded “talk” to a 10-year-old, and cleaning the dinner dishes. He will always take time out to play a game of catch with the boys or teach them to tie a lure. He loves to read to the kids and delights in playing “babies” with his little girl. He changes diapers without ever being asked. He chuckles when cold, wet bottoms crawl into bed with us, and has often said his favorite thing about weekend mornings are the pile of kids watching cartoons in our bed.

More, he does all of these things with joy… reminding me by example and supporting me with his actions.

There is an old adage: “Anyone can be a father, but it takes someone special to be a Daddy.” To my husband, a Daddy, and to all of the other incredible men like him, I wish for you the very happiest Father’s Daddy’s Day…We mothers and our/your children love you more than you know!

Tom's Thumb - June article

Plant for the Heat!
It seems like yesterday I couldn’t wait for the spring garden to bloom. I was excited to see the pansies burst with color, the first blooms of petunias, and the fragrance of roses. Well, spring is over and it’s time to get ready for the heat of summer. Now is the time to get the heat tolerant plants in place for the summer. I have three favorite plants for the hot days of summer.

Summer Snapdragon (Angelonia)
Unlike the cool season snapdragons, these plants love the heat and provide an abundance of flowers. Similar to the winter snapdragons, these plants will bring beauty to the garden throughout the season with colors varying from white to mixed-purple and even pink. These bushy plants, with dark green willow like foliage, range in height from 12 to 20 inches and only need good drainage for continuous growth. Summer snaps are considered an annual in the Brazos Valley and most of the big box stores have them as well as the local nurseries.

Sun Coleus
This is a great accent foliage plant for containers of filler spots in the garden. The sun coleus is relatively new and grows well in the heat and humidity of our area. The plant holds their vibrant leaf colors throughout the summer, and most will double or triple their size by September. One key to continuous growth is to pinch off the blooms to encourage bushier foliage.

Periwinkles (Vinca)
Periwinkles are one honestly one of the “easiest-to-grow” flowers for our area. Once again, they come in a rainbow of colors. I like to plant a flat of one color together in an area for an impact. These plants love the sun and again only require good drainage to grow to about 12 inches tall by midsummer. I like to plant mine about four inches apart for carpet-like continuous color. Periwinkles are annuals but are prolific in their reseeding.

Have a cool summer. Don’t forget to feed the birds!

June - Letter from the Publisher!

No question about it, summer is here and it is hot. We might get lucky with one or two more “cooler” days before the true dog days are here, but for the most part, we can look forward to sun block and sweat beaded arms when spending time outside. June not only brings the joys of summer, but it also brings Father’s Day. Go ahead and set aside a little extra time for Dad and let him know that you appreciate all that he does.

These summer months can also bring an array of personal and family plans. Travel, vacation, school, or even a new house! If you are contemplating making a move, be sure to check out Sherry Perry’s Home Sweet Home, it will prove to be a useful guide. The warm weather also means more time spent at area pools, waterparks, lakes, rivers, and oceans. That means bathing suit weather, and if you are like me, you might want to shape up a little before hitting the scene. It is funny to think that “bathing suit time” is what we think of when looking for motivation to get into shape. In reality, we should be thinking about all the benefits of living a more healthy lifestyle.

Dave Marethouse points out some simple yet very important factors of healthy living. With the 4th of July right around the corner, why not brush off those vocal chords by singing patriotic songs in preparation for next month’s celebrations. These tunes are always fun to sing, and you can take it a step further by learning the history behind some of the songs! In this issue of AYC, Mr. Sterling Allen has shared with us a wonderful look at some of our Nation’s favorite songs and how they came to be!

Over the last few months, we have been receiving inquiries about incorporating our US Troops somehow in AYC. We think that this is a great idea and one that is close to our heart as we have a brother that recently returned from Iraq. We are definitely not alone, there are numerous families in the College Station and Brazos Valley area that have family and friends currently serving, or recently serving in our military forces. Father’s Day provided us a wonderful and unique platform for this effort. Our cover photograph, as well as our feature photograph this month are of Alex Tran and his family. Captain Tran recently returned home to the Brazos Valley after a 12 month deployment to Afghanistan. A loving husband and father of three, Captain Tran has spent 13 years in the Army, including a 12 month tour in Iraq in addition to his service in Afghanistan. We were lucky to capture some of the elated emotion upon his arrival, the experience was one of a kind, and we are honored to share it with you. If you have not had a chance to welcome the Troops home at an airport, I strongly encourage you to do so – whatever your views on the war may be. As a father and a husband, I can only imagine the feeling of holding your little girl, hugging your son, and kissing your wife after traveling half a world for serving our wonderful Country. Our hats are off for you Captain Tran, and Thank you.

Thank you so much for reading, please visit some of our great supporters you see in our pages, spend quality family time and soak up some summer sun!