This weekend while we think about the traveling, the price of gas ( ), cookouts, parades, war movies on TV, and hitting the sales, I ask all of you to take a moment to consider the words of a veteran I saw on the news last night; he hoped that people would think more about those we have lost, then what we can save at the local sale.

Memorial Day gives us the opportumity to remember those that have given their lives to the service of our country, those that came home and those that serve today. We can celebrate what they have given all of us, and thank them for their service.

We can also remember those who who serve our communities in other ways, and have given their lives. Thank you to the police, the fireman, and the rescue workers who are in harms way. Thank you to the nurses, the teachers, the farmers, and all of those that work to make this a better world for all of us.

I take time to remember those that we lost in 9/11, and those that rushed in to help; those that suffered in Katrina, and those that rushed in to help; all of those who face hardship or have lost their lives, and those that have been their to help.

I call upon our leaders to insure that those who have served and been hurt, be given the care they deserve along with the respect and dignity they have earned. I put away the politics of war and conflict, and simply think about all of those who have gone where sent and done what they were asked to do.

I also remember those in my life that are now gone, offer a prayer for those who struggle or suffer, and reach out to friends and family I have allowed to drift away. I also embrace all the wonderful people on this board and in our hobby who make my life better. Together we are stronger.

Let us remember that Memorial Day is not just another day off, but a moment in time.