Happy 4th of July! - Southern Torch

I wanted to send a quick note wishing all of you a very happy and blessed Fourth of July. It has now been 239 years since our Founding Fathers declared independence from Britain and laid the foundation for the United States of America. Their acts, which put them in great personal danger, fostered the freedoms and liberty we have today. However, I’m sure many of you have heard the saying that “Freedom is not Free.” Sometimes it is easy to forget; freedom must be continually fought for and defended.

Over the past week or so the U.S. Supreme Court has released opinions that have caused much concern and disappointment to so many of us. I am not sure if we fully understand the ramificiations of some of these opinions. However, this is not the time to give up or throw in the towel. These rulings are the perfect example of why elections matter. Our freedom to vote must never be taken for granted. I believe the next election in 2016 could be the most important of our lifetimes.

As you celebrate Independence Day with your family and friends, I hope that you will take time to remember those brave founders and the sacrifice they made. I’m reminded of a quote from John Adams: “Posterity! you will never know how much it cost the present generation to preserve your freedom! I hope you will make a good use of it.”

Again: on behalf of Caroline, Mary Elliott, Robert Hayes, and my staff, I wish you and your family a happy, safe and blessed Fourth of July.