It’s often said, love is the universal language. And, one thing is for certain, people love their pets. So there was nothing lost in translation – except the dog, and perhaps a language barrier – found wandering in the metro area, whose microchip indicated it was from France.

While conducting vehicle searches in Anbar Province in Iraq, Corporal Jason L. Dunham engaged the driver of a vehicle after he hopped out of it and physically challenged American troops. The Iraqi dropped a grenade in the middle of the skirmish. Without hesitation, Dunham, a 22-year-old New York native, used his body to shield others from the explosion.

The news flashes reports across the screen of ICE agents infiltrating communities stoking fears among their targeted sector, our Hispanic community, in a steady stream nationwide, including right here, in “River City.”

Imagine a world in which you would flee your homeland, risking life and limb, possible deportation and/or prison to build a better life for you and your family. Against all odds, the perils of the journey, scant possessions carried across your back, knowing anything would be better than the sheer poverty, persecution and/or violence and abuse you face at home.