Thank you to Editor Steph for holding my page last week. At the end of her column, she mentioned that I would have something special to share with you this week. Before I get to that, I have a few Fourth of July thoughts.
As you’re enjoying everything that is our 249th Independence Day, please take a moment to say a prayer for those who never have a day off. They first won our freedom and are currently being asked to do more than ever at home and abroad. I also want to include all those in law enforcement and emergency services who keep us safe so we can enjoy the very freedom our armed forces provide.
We experience many emotions on our journey in the mortal world. Before I share my most joyous news, my thoughts and prayers go out to the Roan family as they experience this 4th of July without Mr. Chuck Roan. As I see the giant American flag illuminated by the bombs bursting in air, I will always think of Chuck. I salute and remember him for his career in the Marine Corps, his efforts to provide that huge Stars and Stripes, and many other things he did during his lifetime. Lou Hunsinger has a must-read article on page 14 in his remembrance.
Well, as you already know, Michelle and I are blessed to have added another member to our family. Our youngest son, Hunter, married Maia Cristina Morrone, the daughter of Missy and Frank Morrone. We all couldn’t be any happier to now have joined our families together and celebrated their matrimony.
The Morrones are a very proud family, and as Frank said during his toast, he just had a feeling that Hunter would someday be joining their family. As the years have gone by, their love has grown from that first love into husband and wife. Thank you to Missy for always being there for both.
I am very humbled by the celebration of their wedding weekend and so many folks that showed up to celebrate the new couple. The love that poured out from the families and friends was very moving. It was amazing to see so many people that Michelle and I have shared our journey with whom we haven’t seen in years.
No one gives you a playbook as a young couple starting out when you have children, your focus immediately becomes towards them. You lose track and touch with many that are important to you.
Another true blessing was that no matter who it was, whether I gave a hug or a handshake, our relationship picked up like it never missed a beat.
The wedding and reception were beyond remarkable, and I thank the Morrone and DiSalvo families for that. I want to thank Father David Bechtel for being so accommodating and his special words. The church was absolutely stunning, and his message was Heaven sent. DiSalvo’s put on a remarkable feast and celebration, and the party carried on into the night.
While we’re talking about food, and you know how important that is to me, thank you to the Danieles and their staff at Franco’s for providing an amazing rehearsal dinner. The event was held at the Park Home, and there were quite a few moving pieces; Maia did a great job of planning the evening. A shout out to Kristy Goss for coordinating the event. I wish I had the space to thank everybody who made it happen.
A loving thank you to Victoria, Maia’s maid of honor and sister, for a very moving toast, and Jimmy, Hunter’s best man, for his humorous and heartfelt words. Between the two, there were laughs, tears, and, most of all, love.
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention Maia’s brother Frankie, who offered the prayer in a unique, loving, and very toastful way.
Maia and Hunter, we love you both so very much. Enjoy the journey together, and don’t blink. Hopefully, one day, you’ll be blessed with children; we know you will make terrific parents.
God Bless America.
