The Slideshow contains photos from Frankenmuth, Michigan's Bavarian Festival Parade. Small town parades across the country feature local favorites, wacky guests, and the usual fare of queens and courts. It's one more thing that makes small towns so special and creates an escape from the frustrations we all experience.

Flag Day 2008

Today I, along with my wife, had a wonderful day in the Traverse City area of Michigan. We enjoyed the Leland Food and Wine Festival, shopped in Traverse City, and then had a spectacular meal at the Apache Trout Grill in Traverse City. On the return trip to our home, we came upon a field of flags in celebration of Flag Day. The sight reminded me that we have servicemen and servicewomen protecting my freedom and performing courageous duties in far off places. Their sacrifices allow me to have the carefree day that I had with my wife. May God bless those soldiers and may God bless the USA.