Opinion
www.SanTanSun.com
July 4 - July 17, 2015
43
Community Commentary
American patriotism rooted in common values concepts of liberty are reflective of one of God’s greatest gifts to humanity—free will. May, June and July form a staircase of Citizens are unencumbered to choose where patriotism and history. On Memorial Day, to live, who to marry or how to earn a living. we pause to pay homage to all whom have This leaves more room for greater individual lost their lives serving in the U.S. military. expression and creation which honors and June 6 is D-Day, the Battle of Normandy, the glorifies the Divine. turning point in World War II. Service leadership June 14 is Flag Day, observing the “All see, and most admire, adoption of the American Flag in the glare which hovers round 1777. The greatest of these, July 4, the external trappings of Independence Day, we celebrate elevated office. To me there is the signing of the Declaration of nothing in it, beyond the lustre Independence in 1776 and the which may be reflected from birth of the nation. its connection with a power of Consider the words of some promoting human felicity.”— great Americans, who remind us George Washington. of our unique heritage. I had to read this quote American patriotism several times before I caught “The freedom and happiness Denny Barney. its full impact. Our Founding of man...(are) the sole objects Fathers believed elected Submitted photo of all legitimate government.”— office was an opportunity Thomas Jefferson. to express benevolence, stewardship and The experience of American patriotism integrity toward our fellow man. There is is unique. American patriotism is rooted perhaps no greater example of this than in common values. It’s more than love of George Washington. He served two terms country; it’s love of ideals. Jefferson’s idea despite the urgings of his countrymen to that government serves the individual was serve a third. A deeply principled man, he beyond revolutionary—it was radical. It has exemplified the spirit of service leadership. defined and connected us as Americans ever Freedom isn’t free since. “What we obtain too cheap, we esteem Divine providence too lightly: it is dearness only that gives “The longer I live, the more convincing everything its value.”—Thomas Paine proofs I see of this truth—that God governs This might sound trite. Sacrifice is not in the affairs of men. And if a sparrow cannot always popular. But almost 1.5 million men fall to the ground without His notice, is it and women have paid the ultimate sacrifice probable that an empire can rise without His since 1776. aid?”—Benjamin Franklin. We all have an obligation to our country, America was founded upon the belief whether you’re a teacher, doctor or that each man was endowed with inalienable businessman. We are all entitled to the same rights by the Creator. Each of us created liberties, accountable to the same justices— equally, no one inherently elevated above and responsible for the endurance of both. another. This equality mirrors God’s love. All Happy Independence Day. receive it regardless of circumstance, wealth For more information about Denny or education. Barney, visit www.maricopa.gov/dist1/ In tandem to equality is the freedom biography.aspx. by which to act upon it. The United States’
BY MARICOPA COUNTY SUPERVISOR DENNY BARNEY, DISTRICT 1
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Celebrate National Park and Recreation Month ‘80s style Center, where movies such as “The Little Mermaid,” “Karate Kid,” and “Gremlins” will The Parks and Recreation Division be shown for free. Of course, we can’t forget offers hundreds of classes and programs some of those famous board games either. throughout the year. The staff takes pride Throwback Thursday Game Night will be in understanding the community’s needs held from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday, July 9, and interests to provide a variety of options at Tumbleweed Recreation Center for ages at affordable prices. I’m proud of the work 8 to 16 years. Attendees can enjoy a human and enthusiasm that is put version of Pac-Man, Hungry Hungry into making our community Hippos and Twister, to name a few. a place where our residents Attendees of the ‘80s-themed can play and be healthy. In events may also be entered into celebration of National Park a drawing to win one of three and Recreation Month this Parks and Recreation Prize Packs. July, Chandler staff is taking Every person who participates will it a little further by offering receive a “My Chandler Mix” card ‘80s-themed classes and shaped like a cassette tape. The programs at throwback pricing. more you participate, the more Some may wonder what chances you have to win. Prize the ‘80s were all about, while packs include activities that families others remember the big hair, Jack Sellers. and couples can enjoy together. neon colors and favorite bands. Submitted photo Chandler’s Parks and Recreation Let’s take a step or two back Division has something for in time. Find that favorite ‘80s everyone. In addition to the recreation attire, grab a date and attend the first “Retro” classes and programs, there are six area Adult Prom from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, July pools and aquatic facilities with swim classes 24, at the Tumbleweed Recreation Center. scheduled year around. More than 1,000 If prom wasn’t what you had in mind, then acres of park land is available throughout you’re sure to find something that is. the City for the enjoyment of our residents. July is full of retro-themed classes and Summer in Chandler also is an important programs for all ages. Jazzercise, Buns of time to observe both heat and water safety Steel and Steps are a few of the exercise tips—not only during these months but classes that will be offered. Denise Austin throughout the year. We want everyone to would be proud, but if group exercise wasn’t have a safe experience and enjoy everything on your list, check out what the City’s our community has to offer. Aquatics Division has to offer. It will be For registration and information on hosting Atomic Comic Superheroes at Folley all classes and programs offered through Memorial Park, Nintendo Night at Desert the Parks and Recreation Division, please Oasis Aquatic Center, and ‘80s Karaoke at visit our website at www.chandleraz.gov/ Hamilton Aquatic Center. There will be parksandrec. And, if you have a fun moment games and activities on deck and in the to share, make sure to take a picture and tag water. Each event is held on a different day. it with the hashtag #JulyPRM30 on Facebook, Visit www.chandleraz.gov/aquatics for more Twitter and Instagram. information. For those who want a more laid-back Jack Sellers, whose term expires in experience, Friday Flick and Fun Nights January 2017, can be reached at jack.sellers@ will be held at the Chandler Community chandleraz.gov.
BY JACK SELLERS, CITY OF CHANDLER CITY COUNCILMAN
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