A Few of FR's Finest....Every Day 08-16-02

Freedom'sWorthIt and Billie

[Billie]

A Few of FR's Finest.....
......Every Day

FR is a Treasure Trove of talented, compassionate, patriotic, wonderful people who gather every day to discuss the latest news and issues;  salute
and support our military and our leaders;  tell a few jokes;  learn a new
word;  write poetry;  pray for those in need;  and congratulate those who
are deserving. Thank you, Jim Robinson, for giving us the vehicle in which
we can express ourselves.

Free Republic made its debut in September, 1996, and the forum was added in early 1997.  I
can remember lurking when there were only a few regulars who posted, and now there are over 60,000 who have registered for posting privileges. The forum is read daily by tens of thousands
of concerned citizens and patriots from all around the country and the world.

A Few of FR's Finest November 11, 2001

So many people have written me since my original Veteran's Day Tribute, asking how they, or a loved one, could be included in that tribute. Since I can no longer add the photos to the body of the thread, I've been including them in additional posts as I received enough to make another collage.

Still that doesn't seem to be enough. I think there's never been a better nor more appropriate time to keep the faces of our own Veterans and Active Military in front of FReepers--every day! That's why I wanted to do yet another Daily Thread .....ABOUT FReepers .....and FOR FReepers. But not only about our Military FReepers; for all FReepers! Wouldn't it be nice to get to know a few of the other FReepers as well? That's why, in addition to seeing FR's Finest Military Personnel every day, I thought it might be fun to feature a different FReeper (or FReepers) each day. If you would like to be pictured, or know someone who would, please FReepmail me and we'll turn the spotlight - on YOU - for the day!

And do let me know if you'd like your picture added to the groups of Veterans/Active Military below. I will keep this page updated, and continue to add them to the comment section of the original Veteran's Day thread as well.

TOP: Logos, SwedeGirl's hubby, Neil E Wright, FallGuy, 1John, Sneakypete
MIDDLE:  T'wit, COB1, LadyX, Dick Bachert, 68-69TonkinGulfYatchClub
BOTTOM:  YankeeinSC, Delta21, JoeSixPack1

TOP:  Bosniajmc, AFVetGal, Archy, A Navy Vet

MIDDLE:  4TheFlag, Aeronaut, 68Grunt, Xinga

BOTTOM:  Codger, AAABest, Clinton's A Liar, Duke809, dcwusmc

TOP:  mc5cents, Norb2569, LBGA's son, VanJenerette

MIDDLE:  Jim Robinson, KJenerette, davidosborne, KG9Kid

BOTTOM:  gwmoore, Equality7-2521, SAMWolf

TOP:  porgygirl, Phil V., MudPuppy, NorCoGOP

MIDDLE:  RaceBannon, OneidaM, rdb3, jwTexian

BOTTOM:  USMC Vet, TheMayor, Vineyard, rhododogma

TOP:  spectr17, RightOnline, SERE_Doc, Tet68

MIDDLE:  FutureSnakeEater, RightOnline's wife, CIApilot, Clamper1797
BOTTOM:  usmcobra, onedoug, DiverDave, Joe6-pack

                     

One of FR's And FLORIDA's Finest! by Freedom'sWorthIt

Luis Gonzalez
FReeper since 05-10-00

Today Free Republic's Finest is saluting someone that many of us met online for the first time back during the Elian Gonzalez travail. Luis' posts during that time gave poignant understanding and indignant passion to the arguments and reasons for allowing that little boy whose mother died trying to bring him to freedom to stay in his new happy home in America. Since that shameful episode in America's "terrible times" under the Clinton/Reno horror, Luis has gone on to become one of Free Republic's budding - and, now, accomplished - authors of distinction!

Maybe you remember these passages about Luis' childhood and the Elian episode - first published at Free Republic, June 3, 2000:  

Becoming American; Elian Gonzalez and My Journey to Freedom
(Copyright 2001)

"I remember Cuba.

I remember it through the eyes of a child, I was eleven years old the day we left; excited to be on my first real airplane, on a trip I had waited so long to take.

The Cuba that I remember was one of contrasts, even to a young child, Marxist ideals and indoctrination at school, quiet and loving deprogramin at home.

Learn and unlearn, fit in and be an outsider at the same time……………

One by one, I said goodbye to my family; uncles, cousins, grandparents; and still we waited.

The fear and desperation of my parents kept a secret from my brother and I, but even as a child I knew; I knew my role, I knew my task, I felt the high wire under my feet. By day, an honor student, outwardly following the Party line for Cuban children, participating in the rallies, repeating the lines, wearing the emblems. By night, hearing the stories about a land where everything was possible, a land of bicycles and toys and wondrous things, a land so alien and so inviting, we where soon to go. Remember not to believe in the lies taught at school, remember to forget..... learn and unlearn.

The last memory of Cuba for this eleven year old child is a disturbing one, a night filled with men in Army uniforms and guns, and shouted orders, of women going into rooms with men and women dressed in green and coming out crying. It was a night of fear and anxiety, a night of not sleeping.

I saw it first, I had the window seat. In the light of an early Spring morning, in the bluest water I have yet to see; there where green islands and the longest bridge in the world. And then a car! And another!

And a voice over speakers saying "Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to The United States of America", and then there was crying and laughing and wordless shouting. But most of all, there where hugs; strong, soul cleansing hugs

The thirty-three year old memories of this once eleven year old boy, of his first morning in America, is one of light.

A promise fulfilled., the beginning of the future……

To fight for Elian's Freedom is to fight for the future of America as a Republic, to reestablish the Ideals of The Founders, to assert the American way of life and show the world that I, a Free Man, will not tolerate injustice and tyranny, and that it will not extend itself unto our Soil freely and without repercussions. The lines that divided me are gone, I stand with all those who stand for Freedom and for the Constitution, with pride in my heritage and love for this Country I erase from my sight race, gender, ethnicity and stand as an American, for the love of America and for the future of all children. "

Read this beauty in its entirety at Luis' Archives:   The Coconut Telegraph, the Missives and Musings of a Banana Republican.

If you have never read Luis' works before now - you are in for a treat. Mosey over and enjoy the Archives of this "Banana Republican's" collection.

Two favorites there, in addition to the selection quoted above, include "Memoirs: Jimmy's Flag" (after 9-11) and "Walking on Freedom Road" (also after 9-11, which includes the report of an unreported Freedom Rally in Little Havana, Miami, Florida, by Cuban Americans ) It is no surprise that liberal "propaganda" outlets did not report this event. But because of Free Republic and Luis Gonzalez, we know about it:

"The 'God Bless America' rally in Little Havana was organized by a handful of community organizations and a radio station, there was very little notice, and almost no advertisement (outside WAQI-AM, Miami), the best estimates placed the crowd at about 150,000.

These rallies are not unusual on Freedom Road, best known as Calle Ocho, they happen regularly, but the majority of the Nation never hears about them, nor do they see the pictures, there is seldom any coverage by the dominant media.

This has become a badge of honor for the participants, we understand WHY the leftist media organizations stay away, they can't demonize and marginalize those whose love and respect for America is so clearly, and frequently evident.

So we take to the streets not expecting to see ourselves in the evening news, but that's OK by us, 'what we do, we do because it is the right thing to do, and we do it on our own. Expect nothing from no one; give your all because anything less is unacceptable.' "

Are you hungry for more from the heart and soul of Luis Gonzalez? Good. There are many more offerings like these but you will have to do some exploring on your own to discover them.

One essay, if you haven't found it on your own, is this one, written by Luis with Billie's usual stunning graphical help, about the Space Shuttle Challenger's disaster upon the 15th anniversary of that tragic event.

Go to this link to read "Where Never Lark or Even Eagle Flew". Bring a handkerchief or two.

Luis has kept that promise mentioned above to remain active in the fight for freedom - not only through his essays, but also through his work for Radio Free Republic, and last - but certainly not least - through caring for his own family, including his two boys - sons who have had the opportunity to be born as Free Citizens of the United States of America.

Luis Gonzalez, our "Banana Republican", talented writer and Radio personality…. we salute you as one of Free Republic's Finest, as one who truly knows beyond any doubt that Freedom is worth it!~~Freedom'sWorthIt

I want to thank Freedom'sWorthIt for putting together this wonderful profile today; I know how very hard she worked, and on relatively short notice she collected the information and compiled it in her own eloquent words that we've come to recognize! Of course, with a subject such as Luis, it would have been hard NOT to find words to write about him. His essays are so moving, they always bring tears to those of us who read them. Thank you, FWI, and thank you, Luis! ~~Billie

THIS WEEK'S THREADS

08-12-02 backhoe
08-13-02 MeeknMing
08-14-02 Vet Group 10
08-15-02 Reagan/Bush/Cheney drawings

[Diver Dave]

...I imagine it felt that way to my grandparents (both paternal and maternal) when they approached Ellis Island by ship...

I like the way you made this statement, dansangel. Got me to thinking of my grandparents as well.

In my collection of "stuff" is a book that my maternal grandmother used as a study guide for her citizenship classes. Folded inside is a certificate from WPA given to my grandfather.

They all brought a fine heritage from "the old country," as they used to call it, but each were very proud to be called Americans - with no hyphens.

[Freedom'sWorthIt]

Oooohhhh. Very neat site and love that guy's writings and pictures. Understand the addiction.

[Mama_Bear]

Have kleenex handy when you go. :)

That's for sure! "Where Never Lark or Even Eagle Flew", had me in tears, as did his rememberances of coming to the United States and seeing this country for the first time. Very emotional stuff.

[Mama_Bear]

But it's not a bear!

No, but if you squint your eyes a bit, it could be, sort of. :-)

[Freedom'sWorthIt]

Hello, there, dansangel. Nice to learn of your grandparents journey to freedom here in America also. Yes, it is people like Luis who come here and make our country stronger and better. And, of course, the same for Free Republic. Isn't Luis a marvel? Same for FR, for JimRob, for Billie, and for all who are contributing to the good things about this place and this country!

[Freedom'sWorthIt]

That bear with the hanky is so cute! (I warned everyone to bring the hankies, didn't I?)

[lodwick]

Thanks for the link - some days I think my head will explode if it takes on much more information, if you know what I mean. ;-)

Bookmark for further study.

What are your thoughts on what I believe to be a worthless embargo of Cuba? It hasn't affected fidel's lifestyle one bit, and the people are the ones bearing the brunt of it.

[lodwick]

I'm going to write Mike and be sure he knows about FR. He certainly sounds like a freeper to me. ;-)

[Freedom'sWorthIt]

"study guide for citizenship classes"....How treasured that bit of family history must be for you. Without those who have come here seeking freedom, seeking opportunity, America would not be the shining city on a hill that it is. The hard work ethic, and love for the freedom found here, brought by those who come from other lands help keep us our nation strong. What treasures all these contributors to our national heritage are!

[Freedom'sWorthIt]

So glad you came and thank YOU for your comments!

Yes, indeed, it is a great thing when we can express and highlight a Freeper whose contributions to the fight for freedom here continue to grow and influence many here (and out in Lurkdom!) And then there are many who may not know about Luis - so we are introducing them to him! Isn't that neat?

Your comments: "Having grown up under the same Communist tyranny that Elian’s mother and countless others died trying to flee, Luis understood better than anyone the obscenity being perpetrated on this small helpless child by a corrupt administration eagerly doing the dirty work for a brutal Communist dictator" mean a great deal to me to read. I was on most of those Elian threads and will never ever forget that terrible time in the shoddy, shameful Clinton terrorist administration.

The fact that you and Luis have become great friends - and through Free Republic - is just one more testimony of the "magic" of this place!

Thank GOD for Jim Robinson and his talents and for Billie and her talents!

And one day, we will see Elian again. And we will also see the Cuban people FREE and Castro DEAD!

[MeekOneGOP]

Someone gave me this link, just fyi........

Graceland Tours

     VigilCast 2002 will be available for viewing to non-AOL High Speed users beginning on August 16 at approximately 1:00 AM, CDT with a link from elvis.com. To view the VigilCast, you will need Microsoft Window Media Player or Real Player 8. Both are available as free downloads from Microsoft and Real.

	VigilCast 2001: High resolution VigilCast 2001: Low Resolution VigilCast 2001: Audio only
	VigilCast 2000

[CounterCounterCulture]

Hey y'all!

Lookit here!!!!!

(being my ever so-humble self)

Wellllll, what took ya so long? I had my tribute AGES ago. Neener neener. ;-)

I missed half of your show last night so I'll have to listen to the archives when I get a chance.

Enjoy your day.

[WVNan]

FWI, you did a great job for Luis!

[William Wallace]

Thank you kind sir!

[lodwick]

Hey there - good to see ya. Thanks for the links, I think.
I fear Graceland will be an absolute ZOO today. ;-)

[DeSoto]

Congratulations Luis, I can't think of anyone that deserves to be honored more than you. Your words are so eloquently crafted that they become a tremendous voice in the battles of freedom, virtue, and morality. Your voice on behalf of Elain stands among the strongest forces on his behalf. I hope that someday that Elain will be able to read your words and understand the battle that was fought. I also hope that he will be able to read some of your moving essays on what it means to be an American. Your words help us to appreciate what so many take for granted.

Enjoy your spotlight today, then get back to work, there are millions left unconvinced of the beauty and glory of America. Your work is still unfinished. 8^)

[lodwick]

You're welcome. And what a great home page you've put together - outstanding resources there. Now off to the grocer if we dine here tonight. bbl

[William Wallace]

Thank you for your kind words Freedom. I'll never forget what a great Elian warrior you were/are!

And one day, we will see Elian again. And we will also see the Cuban people FREE and Castro DEAD!

With God's help, we'll see that day soon my FRiend. God bless you.

[Luis Gonzalez]

Last week, on an FR thread, there was an article about Cuba's latest defector. This man was right below Raul Castro in the Cuban power structure, in his very words, the embargo has done tremendous damage to Cuba's aconomy, and since the USSR stopped subsidizing Fidel, things have gotten so bad, that he expects a popular uprising.

But then again, what would he know?

:-)

[Luis Gonzalez]

Man!

What are you doing to me?

Pulling a Marshall?

You, sir, ARE my brother.

And every feeling is mutual, for all that I've learned, to all that you've allowed me to share, I thank you.