Block · one region of the page, as the scanner read it. It may hold a whole story, part of one, several, or an advertisement; stitching blocks into articles is the next step. Text is supplied OCR.
Page 6 · column 1 of 3 · from the scan, no model involved
Our View
Memorial Day
Unofficial beginning of summer
according to many
Monday, May 28 is Memorial Day, when we
should pause to think of the brave men and
women who have given their lives to preserve our democracy.
The freedom they have ensured for us will be celebrated in that most American of institutions: the three-day weekend. And many of us will, unfortunately, give little thought to the real significance of the holiday.
Instead, we’ll gas up the family car or truck and head for the beach or the mountains. The Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial beginning of summer. Swimming pools open and serious vacationing begins.
That will place more than the usual burden on local roads and drivers. Rappahannock’s function as a major crossroads for tourist becomes even more apparent to us on these three-day holiday weekends.
And, although we’ve heard and read the statistics many times, we still must remind ourselves of the potential hazards. We must be more aware of careless and drinking drivers in the next several days and weeks ahead. There will no doubt be extra state troopers and patrol personnel on the road to help but we too must be extra cautious.
We can do our part by driving defensively and by ensuring that all passengers are securely belted in our vehicles. The buckling habit can save hundred of lives, prevent thousands of injuries and decrease economic losses associated with highway death and injury annually.
It’s all been said before for a simple reason: It’s the enduring truth. Let’s be careful out there. On Memorial Day weekend, we should remember the dead and help prevent further loss. Buckle up and enjoy the long awaited weekend. Happy Memorial Day to all readers!
98.3%