Happy Independence Day!

As you celebrate the Fourth of July with family and friends, remember to pause for a moment to think about our freedoms and how much we owe those who came before us and shaped our country into what it is today.

We should especially keep in mind our military men and women who are fighting to protect not only our way of life, but also the rights of others.

In honor of Independence Day, I want to share with you some inspirational quotes on freedom:

"Our greatest happiness does not depend on the condition of life in which chance has placed us, but is always the result of a good conscience, good health, occupation and freedom in all just pursuits." - Thomas Jefferson

"Liberty, taking the word in its concrete sense, consists in the ability to choose." - Simone Weil

"You can't separate peace from freedom because no one can be at peace unless he has his freedom." - Malcom X

I hope you and your family have a wonderful Fourth of July!

Bill Ruud
President