Born on the Fourth of July

Whitland Avenue celebrates a banner day

Published On: July 29, 2010

When you overhear a latter-day patriot invoke the spirit of Patrick Henry with the thirsty ultimatum “Give me lemonade or give me death,” you know you are living in the happy land of plenty. Still, the denizens of the Whitland neighborhood never miss a chance to reaffirm the bounty of life on the fruited plain of freedom.

On a comparatively balmy Independence Day, the Whitland Patriots hosted a sturdy throng of grateful Americans for a parade, program and potluck. Festivities kicked off with a red-white-and-blue procession of kid, dogs, bikes, trikes and makeshift mini-floats. Then maestro Jay Dawson led the Greatest Band in America—comprising a heat-resistant subset of the Nashville Symphony—in a Sousa-rific medley of grand ole marches and sing-a-long songs. In keeping with Whitland tradition, Chip Arnold belted out the Declaration of Independence, as his father, Bud, did for so many years before.

When you gather so many sociable citizens in one place, it can be hard to command the attention of the peaceful assembly. If you were chit-chatting or trying to sneak into the food tent during the program, you might have missed a few highlights at the podium. Arnold Myint stopped by to judge the picnic potluck contest and awarded ribbons to Pam Taylor’s roasted green beans, Jeanne Ballinger’s orzo salad, Lori Patterson’s homemade s’mores and Jennifer and Ann Orth’s lemon flag cake.

Turning to a meatier topic, Congressman Jim Cooper introduced guest speaker David Hughes, a graduate of the Citadel and a decorated veteran who served three tours in the Middle East. Celebrating his 36th birthday at Whitland, Hughes described his experiences in Iraq and Afghanistan and the impact American soldiers are having on the other side of the world.

“I don’t think it was until I put a uniform on and served in combat that I really understood the gravitas of this day,” Hughes said in a trembling voice. “The men and women who serve you today also understand the significance of what they do. They are so willing to make that sacrifice because of this great nation and what it means to so many…The only thing they ask in return is that you be proud of them, which obviously the folks on Whitland Avenue are so very proud. And thank you for that.”

No, David…thank you. CF