American History is being written......right now!

This past weekend on June 19th 2010 in Lorain, Ohio Juneteenth was recognized and celebrated. For those that don't know how Juneteenth came about, here is a brief history lesson. Slavery in America was supposed to have ended 147 years ago, when President Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863. But it wasn't until June 19, 1865, when Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger announced in Galveston, Texas, that the Civil War was over, two years after the fact; that black people knew they were free. WOW! I want to point out one common fact. America has a diverse and unique History, or should I say story. I want to share two definitions of the word History:

1. A usually chronological record of events, as of the life or development of a people or institution, often including an explanation of or commentary on those events.

2. A formal written account of related natural phenomena.

There are those that believe let the past be the past and others that say "we need to move on." I say, when we are born we are like blank tablets and as we go through life people, places, events and things are consistently writing on our tablets. Depending on the people, places, events, and things that are written on our tablets paints the picture of whom we are and how far we have come. America is no different.

Words of Wisdom: Every celebration or observance of any kind is a part of American History, especially if it happens in America. Embrace it! If you do, you might just learn something!

Parents that Host truly Lose the Most!

For some strange reason, in a town near you, there are individuals who think it is okay to serve alcohol to teens at their teenager's graduation party/open house. I have heard all the explanations in order to defend their decision. I have heard, "at least I know where he/she is" to "you only live once" and the best one is "he/she is young, let them have some fun." I am still scratching my head on that one. Underage drinking is a growing problem that really needs to be taken seriously instead of being viewed as a rites of passage into adulthood.

I know it is not my job to tell parents how to raise their children; so I will just point out one important fact to think about. Serving to underage drinkers(teens) is against the Law!

Words of Wisdom: There was a story about a Notre Dame football recruit(17 year old) that fell to his death after drinking with his family during spring break. He had a promising career and future ahead of him. Look no further to this tragedy to realize the affects of alcohol on underage teens. Lets abide by the law. We will save lives.