After a week of entertaining golfers here in Boone, everyone can breathe a little easier now. Thanks to the hard work of a lot of people, the 2004 Golf Tournament went off without a hitch. Make sure you check out the photos of this year's event.

It's back to reality now, however, and much of the nation seems to be glued to the television as coverage of President Ronald Reagan's funeral is being shown at an ever-increasing rate - and rightly so, as he was one of our greatest presidents.

But as I view his flag-draped casket, I cannot help but remember the thousands of other great Americans who have served their country and now are in a much better place. This country's freedom came with a price. You and I will enjoy cookouts, perhaps a day at the lake, a big Southern Gospel concert or just time with family and friends this summer because of someone's sacrifice. For many, the sacrifice was a few years of intense dangerous work in the armed forces. For others, the sacrifice was ultimate. And for the families of those who paid the ultimate sacrifice, let us remember the price of sacrifice never declines.

On quiet hillsides all around the world, there are American flags gently flowing in the breeze. And while that heaven-sent breeze touches the soul, there are men and women who now rest, their toils behind them. They are our heroes. They are our real American Idols.