Bringing back patriotism to the island center
One island resident has made it her mission to restore patriotism to the island center. Passing by the bent flagpole on the corner of Stringfellow and Pine Island Roads, Lynda Newman has been driven to restore the pole and fly the nation’s symbol at the location once again.
“For some, the bent pole at the center served as a reminder of what we all went through at the hand of Hurricane Charley, but I think it is time for us to put that time behind us and look ahead,” Newman said. “Today we are facing new challenges and it is important for all of us to remember what our flag and this nation stands for, so I want to bring the American flag back to the island center.”
In the past few weeks, Newman has worked tirelessly to locate the owner of the property to obtain written permission to restore the pole. Now that that has come about, she is moving forward to have the pole either straightened or replaced thanks to the help and generosity of her island neighbors.
In addition to her pole project, Newman also has teamed up with the American Legion Auxiliary to encourage other islanders to display the American flag.
“Over the last few weeks I have been driving around the island looking for businesses that did or didn’t display the flag. The Auxiliary had ordered several flags to be distributed to those who need them,” Newman said. “I have taken on the responsibility of distributing the flags and it is my hope that one day soon all of the restaurants and marinas on the island will proudly fly a flag.”
For those who are interested in displaying an American flag at their place of business or are in need of a replacement flag, call Lynda Newman at 410-1724 and she will arrange to deliver a new flag and pick up an old flag to be disposed properly.