Happy birthday to America, which remains the shining city upon a hill that President Reagan talked about. As you chow down on your hot dog and watch the annual fireworks displays, take time to remember the brave men and women who fought for and continue to fight for our freedoms and way of life.

May God Continue to Bless America.

(A Special Note: Though the thought may not arise in the daily political discourse, we must truly be thankful for the mere presence of a political opposition. In this nation we are free to argue over ideas and policies, change our leadership often, and speak freely about what we believe. What a truly great nation we have here.)