Miracle Mindset

 Photos and Story by Ken Hulsey As many of you already know, I have begun to take my physical health seriously. Earlier this year, a routine trip to the doctor served as a wake-up call when my test results showed that my health was in dire shape. Lifestyle changes had to be made, or I was going to end up in a very bad way. I started watching what I ate, began exercising, and started taking a handful of medications every morning. It seems that when you start getting older, a sedentary lifestyle isn't good for you.  Who knew?

Photos and Story by Ken Hulsey I've actually had these photos in the queue for over a month now. I took these during the Rock the Red celebration on July 4th. Naturally, I posted the pictures of the fireworks but neglected to feature any other images from the event.

 Photo by Ken Hulsey Rock the Red: Celebrating Independence Day in Alexandria, Louisiana As July 4th approaches, the vibrant community of Alexandria, Louisiana, gears up for its much-anticipated annual celebration, Rock the Red. This free, family-friendly event promises an afternoon and evening filled with joy, excitement, and patriotic fervor—all set against the beautiful backdrop of the Red River.

 Photos and Story by Ken Hulsey This morning, I decided to wake up before the rooster crowed to capture the Memorial Day sunrise over England Air Force Base Heritage Park in Alexandria, Louisiana. The park features many of the jet fighters flown by the pilots of the famed 'Flying Tigers' who were stationed here from the late 1940s until the base closed in 1992. Watching the light gradually illuminate these majestic machines brought to mind the hundreds of service men and women who woke at first light to prepare to fight and die for our country in the skies, on the high seas, and on countless battlefields around the globe.

 A symbol of all airmen past, present, and future, the England Air Force Base Heritage Park is a proud reminder of the Air Force's role in our nation's military history. Each of the five aircraft displayed here valiantly contributed to the defense of our country. They are suspended in simulated flight as a permanent reminder of the courage, dedication, and sacrifice of the men and women who have served their country as members of the finest air force in the world.  -  England Air Force Base Heritage Park Plaque

This past week, after being cooped up in my office for days, I decided to take advantage of the mild temperatures and low humidity by taking a walk around downtown during my lunch break. When Terri and I moved to Louisiana six years ago, we took a trip to downtown Alexandria and discovered a plethora of abandoned buildings. It was clear to us that our new home was a city in decline, almost forgotten. However, when I ventured into this once-vibrant downtown area, I honestly expected to see more signs of decay. To my surprise, I found some evidence of life and a glimmer of hope that Alexandria could indeed experience a renaissance.