Independence Day | A Reflection On Those That Paved The Way
Friday, July 4th, 2008As Americans, we are blessed to have so many freedoms denied other cultures. Women have a voice. Races are equal in the site of the law. These are things we may take for granted. Though perfection doesn’t exist in America, the power to make a difference and to live a life of our choosing is a luxury provided to us. This freedom was not inherent in our country, however. Men and women fought and died in the hopes that generations to come would have opportunities they didn’t.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints notified the public that Mormon leader Gordon B. Hinckley died on Sunday, January 27 with his family around him. He was suffering from failing health and spokespeople stated that he died of natural causes due to age. Mr. Hinckley became the 15th president of the Salt Lake City-based church in 1995 and served until his death at the age of 97. The church boasts roughly 13 million followers.
Frances Lewine was one of the most honored and well respected journalists of our time – a White House correspondent for The Associated Press and CNN’s editor and producer for almost 30 years. Frances Lewine was also a woman. Lewine fought for women’s rights in journalism throughout her 50+ years as a journalist. She passed away this last weekend at the age of 86 due to a stroke. She was still working for CNN.
Allan Melvin, best know as Sam the Butcher on “The Brady Bunch†sitcom and Archie Bunker’s friend Barney on “All in the Family†passed away last week at the age of 84. Melvin was said to have had cancer. 
Sultry voiced actress, Suzanne Pleshette, best known as the wife of Bob Newhart on “The Bob Newhart Show†died Saturday, January 19, due to respiratory failure. She was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2006.