The 4th of July has long been one of my favorite holidays. I love seeing the kids’ bike parades with flags flying from handlebars, family and friends gathering together to eat well and play games and as the day comes to a close, prepare for the excitement of fireworks.

Of course, this day symbolizes much more than all of that. It’s first and foremost a day to celebrate freedom, democracy and the principles of liberty which our nation was founded. As we celebrate this 4th of July let us all remember the sacrifices made for our freedom, the values that unite us as a nation, and the responsibility we each have to uphold and defend these principles. Let us cherish the gift of liberty that we have been given, and strive to ensure that it is preserved for generations to come. We are truly blessed as a nation; I hope that each of you share in these blessings and have a wonderful Independence Day.