the writing and photography of Neil Kramer

Tag: Fourth of July

The National Anthem

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My favorite part of the Olympics is not the sports, but when they play the national anthems.   I love national anthems.   France’s La Marsellaise is inspiring.   Israel’s Haktikvah is emotional.   Our Star Spangled Banner stinks.  I know it’s the Fourth of July and all, but is there a better time to suggest something revolutionary?

Well, It’s actually not that revolutionary.  Many have argued for changing the national anthem.  Usually, the argument involves the fact that the song is too war-like.  Or that the tune is based on a drinking song.  Or someone like Roseanne sings it at a baseball game.   My objection is that it is just a bad song.  No one can sing it right.  It’s screechy.  No one really knows the words. 

Anyone have any suggestions?  My vote goes for "This Land is Your Land."

Happy 4th of July.  Support our troops!

Meanwhile, in Coney Island

If it’s fourth of July, that means in Brooklyn it’s time for Nathan’s Famous July Fourth International Hot Dog Eating Contest.  Can anyone unseat four-time winner Takeru Kobayahsi of Japan, who last year ate 53 1/2 hot dogs in twelve minutes?

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Here are last year’s onlookers just seconds before Norwegian-born Steinar Andersen’s unsuccessful (and rather unpleasant) attempt to eat his 42nd hot dog.

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