Karen Ann Crane
One of the most charismatic volunteers is Karen Ann Crane . She is a grade school teacher who is currently hired by four schools as a music teacher . She also directs a Girl Scout camp program . Karen grew up in San Louis Obispo in the shadows of Vandenberg Air Force Base . Patriotic sing alongs were a part of life there . When she took a grade school job in San Jose and the kids did not know God Bless America she went an a mission to change that . Teaching in Morgan Hill 26 years ago she was recruited to do a patriotic sing along for the 4th . Today the Patriotic Sing includes 120 kindergarten to 6th grade students , some of who are second-generation singers ! The Patriotic Sing today also includes a tribute to currently serving troops and veterans . Emotions well when the kids sing the Marines fight song and grizzled veterans stands at attention !
High energy Karen has made patriotism a reality for many students , parents and citizens of Morgan Hill . Donations are directed to Blue Star Moms who send letters and gift packages to deployed troops . Karen is backed up by a group of 28 helpers who make it all happen . One of Karen ’ s key helpers is Theresa Liensdorf . Theresa started out as a parent of one of the singers but today is the go-to-person behind the unabashed patriotism and energy of Karen Ann Crane .
Angelina Madraiga ( right ) recently completed sixth grade at Los Paseos Elementary School in San Jose . She has been singing the national anthem at the Freedom Fest for the past three years .
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