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MAF Blogger Danny
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Our hero, the radiant Melanie Morgan

It was a bright, sunny day - unusually gorgeous, and without any of the lingering fog and low clouds that cling to San Francisco like liberal political activists who never seem to leave.

Supporters of Move America Forward, and our military men and women, gathered at the historic Fior d’Italia (America’s oldest Italian restaurant) to pay tribute to Melanie Morgan.  Bob Larive, owner of the Fior d’Italia was an outstanding host who welcomed attendees with open arms.

The Fior’s Bob Larive and Melanie Morgan

The “Salute to Melanie Morgan” event honored the energetic, passionate and caring leader of our pro-troop organization, and brought people together who share a commitment to support our troops and defeat any efforts by anti-military activists to dishonor them.

Part of the Crowd at the General Fundraiser

Radio talk show host, talented comedian, columnist and TV political analyst, Michael Graham, flew in from Boston, MA to serve as master of ceremonies from the event.  Michael and Melanie led the first delegation of talk radio hosts into Iraq in 2005:  The Voices of Soldiers - Truth Tour.  Michael was gregarious, funny and charming, and the audience loved him.

Michael Graham & Melanie Morgan at the Podium

Michael was sooo funny that at times Melanie didn’t know what to do with him!

What are we going to do with Michael Graham?

There were a lot of great patriots in attendance.  At the VIP fundraiser, Bohdan Papara - a frequent supporter of Move America Forward - showed off his pride for our troops with his “Our Troops, Our Heroes” shirt.

Bohdan Papara and Melanie Morgan

And at the general attendance fundraiser the crowd showed their love for this country - putting their hands over their hearts as they enthusiastically sang the national anthem.

Patriotic Supporters Show Love for America

KSFO’s exceptionally talented radio host, and meteorologist extraordinaire, Brian Sussman was on hand for the VIP event.

Brian Sussman and Melanie Morgan Before the VIP Event Began

Brian was a big hit with many in attendance, including Lou & Paulette Bevilacqua - who have been terrific supporters of our troops and MAF.

Lou & Paulette Bevilacqua with Brian Sussman

The VIP event featured lots of fascinating discussions about a wide variety of issues. It was so exciting to hear people speak about their passions for this country and the ideals of freedom and liberty.

The VIP Fundraising Reception

A lot of great supporters were on hand - people who have given their time and money to support Move America Forward’s pro-troop efforts.  Our hats are tipped to you in appreciation!

Mary Jo Gallagher, Dana Walsh, Sheri & Pete Laurence

Katie Boyd, a spunky and passionate soul, with Melanie

Our thanks to Marsh Johnson & his family.  Here he is with Brian Sussman.

And here’s some shots with a larger focus on the crowd of good folks who attended.  Look closely to see if you happen to know anyone - there were a lot of great patriots on hand.

Everyone enjoyed singer Diana Nagy’s performance which included The Star Spangled Banner and her patriotic smash hit, Where Freedom Flies.

Diana Nagy sings her heart out.

Towards the end of the general admission fundraiser, Michael Graham opened up the floor to members of the audience to ask whatever questions they had for Melanie.  It was a great Q&A, with Melanie giving people an update on her career in radio and also on the big upcoming June 26th Internet TV Telethon: “From the Frontlines.”

Q & A for Melanie

I had the chance to speak with Grace Fong who has been supporting MAF ever since it was launched in 2004.

The charming and kind-hearted Grace Fong.

Melanie was thrilled to see Cinnamon Stillwell, a blogger and contributor to SFGate.com.  Melanie is a big admirer of Cinnamon’s writing.

Melanie with Cinnamon Stillwell

Melanie had the chance to talk with David Blumberg, a managing partner at Blumberg Capital who has been very kind to help Move America Forward position itself to secure greater amounts of funding for our pro-troop efforts in the future.

David Blumberg and others thank Melanie.

And finally, Mike and Annette DeNunzio deserve special recognition for their support of MAF, our troops, and the kindness and compassion they have shown.  They are all around great people and Melanie wanted all of us to send extra-special thanks for their warm-hearted generosity over the years.

Mike and Annette DeNunzio