Inside Mesa

The American Flag - you may have it in a glass case like mine. You may have one flying at home, on every holiday - perhaps always. What does it represent? What does it say to you when you see it draped over a military coffin? What does it have to do with Easter you might ask.Do you think of freedom, sacrifice, the United States of America, our military, ‘In God we trust’? As you read through the meanings of each fold, you will see the depth and breadth of our country, the solid foundation by which it was built.The American Flag draped over a soldier’s coffin, folded 13 times before it’s given to a widow or widower, or a 12 year old child chosen to go….it hangs on a wall in my home. What does each fold mean? A friend sent me the meaning of the folds and much more. I learned at military funerals, the 21-gun salute stands for the sum of the numbers in the year 1776. I looked up the familiar documents written then: The Virginia Declaration of Rights and The Declaration of Independence. It was helpful to read through them again, to realize ‘our’ very foundation was built on God, anticipating his guidance, to accept all and strive for unity and the pursuit of happiness. Government was put in place to secure our rights, in one people to disolve the Political Bands that bring people together. When a government becomes destructive it is the right of the people to alter or abolish it, to institute new government, laying down a foundation to ensure it’s safety and happiness. I now see clearly the conviction of our President and the appointed task he is committed to as a Christian.Our soldiers remind me of the love of God — his son — our countries sons and daughters laying down their lives, fighting the battle of darkness so that we might have life without fear and destruction. Coming from a military family - all veterans - my father, my children’s father, my son, brother, uncles - all paid the price by going, doing their part…along with millions of others who have and are defending our country. Having faith and a commitment to the U.S, to defend her during war, rumors of war, peace time; my deep respect and appreciation is forever there. I watched with much pain and sadness, afraid of a future without my dad. Aware of all that was going on around me, how did I get there? The loud gunshots that still ring in my ear, the tall cypress trees stretching toward the heavens, they are still there. Watching those in uniform going through a process of honor for one of their own. A surprise, a soldier stands in front of the little girl, his white gloved hands relinquish the flag that had covered him in honor - folded 13 times.If at a military funeral, notice the honor guard pays meticulous attention to our flag of the United States of America, correctly folding it 13 times.The 2nd fold is a symbol of the belief in eternal life.The 3rd fold is made in honor and remembrance of the veterans departing the ranks who gave a portion of their lives for the defense of the country to attain peace throughout the world.The 4th fold represents the weaker nature, for as American citizens trusting in God, it is to Him we turn in times of peace as well as in time of war for His divine guidance.The 5th fold is a tribute to the country, for in the words of Stephen Decatur, "Our Country, in dealing with other countries, may she always be right; but it is still our country, right or wrong."The 6th fold is for where people’s hearts lie. It is with their heart that They pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States Of America, and the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with Liberty and Justice for all. The 7th fold is a tribute to its Armed Forces, for it is through the Armed Forces that they protect their country and their flag against all her enemies, whether they be found within or without the boundaries of their republic.The 8th fold is a tribute to the one who entered into the valley of the shadow of death, that we might see the light of day.The 9th fold is a tribute to womanhood, and Mothers. For it has been through their faith, their love, loyalty and devotion that the character of the men and women who have made this country great has been molded. The 10th fold is a tribute to the father, for he, too, has given his sons and daughters for the defense of their country since they were first born.The 11th fold represents the lower portion of the seal of King David and King Solomon and glorifies in the Hebrews eyes, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.The 12th fold represents an emblem of eternity and glorifies, in the Christians eyes, God the Father, the Son and Holy Spirit.The 13th fold, or when the flag is completely folded, the stars are uppermost reminding them of their nations motto, "In God We Trust." After the flag is completely folded and tucked in, it takes on the appearance of a cocked hat, ever reminding us of the soldiers who served under General George Washington, and the Sailors and Marines who served under Captain John Paul Jones, who were followed by their comrades and shipmates in the Armed Forces of the United States, preserving for them the rights, privileges and freedoms they enjoy today. Some traditions and ways of doing things have deep meaning. In the future, you’ll see flags folded and now you will know why. I look at the precious flag that draped my father’s coffin, one that died so that we, so that I, might be free.The American flag represents the very essence of America. A place of honor seen by the world, sewed in our hearts. It is a symbol, sometimes tattered and worn, committed to the power of truth and the freedom of all it’s people. Especially that flag that has been draped over a soldiers coffin, making it possible to enjoy life, keeping us free from the enemy..

Headlines lately have been speaking of ancient writings discovered about Judas Iscariot, you remember, the one that betrayed Jesus to his death. They say Judas was a hero. You might buy into this, unless you know what I

On April 6, I attended the East Valley Partnership, SRP Breakfast presentation on the east valley dream and treasure of the Superstition Vistas east in Pinal County. Our main speaker, Grady Gammage, doing a great job explaining the possibilities —- like 900,000 population in the next 50 years.The trends and possible scenarios as this area is built up into a well thought out community of the near future was intriguing. The room was filled at the Point South Mountain Conference area, eagerly waiting to hear how they may play a part and be influential in it’s development.One of the most exciting for me because it effects Mesa, is Williams Gateway as it will experience an explosion! This needs to be a reality –I read recently that helicopter rides are offered to customers to Sky Harbor for $90. The much needed Las Vegas runs now in place is great. Patnerships with others is a must, I can’t imagine anyone, or any smart business venture passing this up!Water was a topic, the management of and smart techniques to be resourceful. Mark Winkleman, Land Commissioner, AZ State Land Commission spoke about laws that need to change because they are out dated. Cooperation and the reality of growth was evident. Sandy Smith, Pinal County Supervisor also spoke, offering her thoughts toward diverse ideas and flexibility, lots of people interested in this great plan, a real treasure for all.Transportation, freeways, and oh yes, the Baby Boomers will play a significant part. Their choices in technology, less interest in the same age communities, a decrease in golf communities, an increased concern in environmental issues, and more diverse people will be the ordinary, and in my opinion a better society.It was a morning well spent thinking about the possibilities; real estate and how the new city will be layed out, how our economy will be impacted, our life styles, the environment, and Mesa in particular with the infusion of this population coming through our city to work, shop, seek out other needs such as hospitals, doctors, entertainment, churches. Get ready, it’s coming!

I was reading where Vision Airlines have started flights to Las Vegas.Thats a great sign! A couple months ago my wife went to Laughlin taking a flight from Williams Gateway and its quite a change from Sky Harbour. When we arrived at the airport there was no traffic and plenty of places to park, in fact, we were’nt even sure we were at the right place, but we were. When the ticket counter opened up, there was a line to get through, about 40-50 people taking that flight, but that really didn’t take very long. All in all it was a great experience. There were no places to get a drink or bite to eat yet at the terminal, but with more flights, I’m sure that will change.With all the problems that Mesa is currently facing, there are some bright spots.

As a member of the Mesa Republican Women, I was looking forward to our lunch meeting today at the Mesa Country Club. What a nice place, their food is always so good! The speaker today was Jan Brewer, Secretary of State. Boy, did I learn some of the wonderful things she has been doing that I can take advantage of. I had no idea!Did you know that Jan Brewer is responsible for developing a way for anyone in our military having the ability to vote while deployed anywhere in the world? All they need is a fax, always found at a military post. AZ is the first in the United States to start a wonderful service for those serving us, fighting for our country in a war zone! She went on to tell us about the special fax machine, one near her office that all of a sudden began receiving a fax from someone in Iraq! What a moment. Did you know you can even register to vote on-line if you have a drivers license dated after 1996? So convenient. The biggest surprise that I really like, is that we now have the capability to go on line and file a living will, trust, power of attorney, all in the convenience in your home on your computer, for free! Plus, you can change it every month if you like. You’re probably wondering how you retrieve it. You’re given a pin number — you can give to your doctor, spouse, children, or a friend in case of an emergency. They can go in and retrieve the information needed. Now that’s a good idea!What’s next? The Golden Rule license plate…..I’m looking forward to that one!

I attended a forum Tuesday night and came away with this thought: Mesa has an identity crisis.Others have told me this over the years but I never really listened because I never thought that it was important. Why is haveing an identity important? I can only give you my opinion and that is this: Without something to draw and keep people in Mesa, Mesa will continue to have both financial and social problems. In the past Mesa was known as a small town bedroom community - a place where you can have a family, feel safe, and send your kids to good schools, and find good shopping. You can avoid the hustle and bustle of larger cities. Now, Mesa is that big city, but we still think of ourselves and operate the same way we did decades ago. Now other cities have nicer shopping centers, nicer and cleaner streets, better rated schools, and convey a better sense of security to its residents. Mesa on the other hand is having trouble funding its basic essentials. Yes, we still have lower prices, but our standard of living is also lower. High tech companies looking to relocate are looking for communities that can offer their employees more than just the basic essentials, but good amenities and a reasonably high standard of living. Without giving Mesa something to boast, an identity, this city tends to just fall below the radar to most people and companies. We can’t attract people here so our sales tax dollars go elsewhere. We can’t attract businesses so they go elsewhere, even those that are here now go elsewhere, more tax dollars gone. There’s more I can add but I’ll leave that for later.