Tomorrow marks the anniversary of the Second Continental Congress adopting the Declaration of Independence, the founding document of the United States of America.
Celebrating the birth of our nation gives us the opportunity to pause and reflect on the bold and brave vision shared by our founding fathers in declaring a union of states free from the rule of the Kingdom of Great Britain.
These men who signed the declaration — John Hancock, Richard Henry Lee, Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman and the many others — were willing to risk their lives in order to establish a new, free nation conceived in liberty.
Their actions, started by Hancock’s signature as president of the Congress on July 4, 1776, and then followed the next month when the other 55 delegates inked their names, was the groundwork for forming the greatest country in the world. And it remains that way 232 years later.
We wish our patriotic forefathers could be with us Saturday to participate in our parades, picnics and fireworks displays — and to share a smile and join the celebration of freedom. More importantly we’d like them to analyze what has taken place in the USA since those historic events, both the good and the bad, and to share the smile of success. Because even in tough times, America remains the best.
Since they can only live on in our history books and memories, it is our responsibility to ensure that forward thinking American citizens continue to share a similar vision with an eye toward the next 200 years and the call for keeping us the land of the free and the home of the brave.
Opinion
July 2, 2009
Independence Day
America is still the best, no matter what troubles we face
- Opinion
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No-bid contracts
Lawmakers need to put checks, balances in place
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Negative campaigning
Smear tactics do nothing but add to public’s distrust
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Deterrent
Authorities’ use of murder charge could help curb copper thefts
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Mine safety
For agencies to remain relevant, public must demand a better job
- Thumbs
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Sweep it up
Volunteers to converge on litter today, tomorrow
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Fighting the flu
CDC recommending vaccinations for everyone ages 6 months and older
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Dental hygiene
Give kids healthy snacks and take advantage of programs
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Get it right
Election officials must stop abdicating responsibilities
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Too late
Reactive rather than proactive, MSHA decision on ventilation enforcement a slap in face
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