Flag deserves courtesy, respect
Local columnist T.J. Ray writes about the lack of respect shown for the U.S. flag, the national anthem and even the Pledge of Allegiance and urges all to learn the meaning behind those national symbols. (March 7, 2013, Page 4)
Nervous time for young DJ
Local columnist T.J. Ray recalls one afternoon in the studio of the radio station he worked for as a teenager when he was faced with a big problem – what did he do if he couldn’t find the recording of the national anthem to sign off with? (March 16, 2012, Page 4A)
Anthem follow-up
Local columnist T.J. Ray writes a follow-up column to last week’s piece about respecting the national anthem and U.S. flag, noting that the Super Bowl showing still left him wondering why we don’t just drop the singing of the national anthem before big events if it can’t be done properly. (February 9, 2012, Page 4)
The national anthem and flags – what gives?
Local columnist T.J. Ray takes a look at how the national anthem is often performed before major sporting events and the way the U.S. flag is treated, wondering why people seem willing to disrespect both. (February 2, 2012, Page 4)
Consider options for performing national anthem
It happens all too often – the national anthem is botched at a big-time, televised event. The most recent? The Super Bowl. Local columnist T.J. Ray says the song is too important to be messed with and suggests other options when it comes to having it performed on the big stage. (February 18, 2011, Page 4A)
Pledge of Allegiance, anthem should be treasured
Local columnist T.J. Ray remembers the appreciation, reverence and honor given to the Pledge of Allegiance and the national anthem during his younger days and contrasts that with the reaction to the pledge or the anthem at times these days. (March 17, 2010, Page 4A)
