Opinion

THORNS & ROSES: Honor those who gave all

By Bill Moss, Published: May 25, 2012

Rose — To those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation.Monday is the day set aside to honor our war dead, and we ought not let Memorial Day pass without pausing to remember those who gave all and those who serve today, ready to lay down their lives to protect and preserve liberty. There is no shortage of Memorial Day observances in our area, thanks to the many active military units who keep the flame burning. The main observance in Hendersonville is 11 a.m. Monday at Forest Lawn Cemetery and others are scheduled in Polk County and Brevard. Before the backyard cookout or the fishing or trip to the mall, take a moment and join the nation in saluting the soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines who are no longer with us, and those stationed far away, who cannot join their families back home in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Thorn — To those who complain about traffic and lines and out-of-state plates as we ramp into high season. Really, we ought to lighten up on the strangers in our midst, who we ought not regard as strangers at all. So the occasional Florida driver heads the wrong way on Church Street. Honk politely, and steer them the right way.
Say hello, offer to help with directions or restaurant tips and promote the greater Hendersonville area. We're going to have a great tourism season if we all do our part.

Rose — To Bluegrass and Barbecue at Jump Off Rock. The third annual outdoor concert and barbecue feed was certainly the charm. More than 700 people took the pleasant drive up Laurel Park Highway in near perfect weather for some great music and tasty pig. The town of Laurel Park and the Laurel Park Civic Association should take a bow.

Rose — To the nine winners of the Blue Ridge Business Growth Awards. These businesses, most locally owned and many started right here in recent years, have not only persevered but prospered in a challenging economy. No one but the owners and the workers at these companies knows the work that goes into making them profitable. They deserve applause, and maybe a little R&R this weekend.