1. Why Do We Celebrate the 4th of July?

Why Do We Celebrate the 4th of July? I remember watching with horror as Jay Leno asked that question of people he met in the street and they were not able to answer it. For the people Jay asked the question, the Fourth was just another day off from work and a chance to party.

All of which validates the proposition that teachers have a responsibility to teach, but students have a responsibility to learn. And yet those people who couldn’t answer the question appeared to be old enough to vote. Almost makes you want to consider a voting qualification test. (Those of you have read my book know I’m also intrigued by the voting qualification procedure in Starship Troopers.)

You take your car in for regular oil changes and an annual service. You get your teeth cleaned twice a year. You have an annual physical.

So why don’t you take the chance once a year to remind yourself why it is we celebrate the Fourth of July?

Here’s a link to the government web site with the text to the Declaration of Independence. Do a favor for yourself and take the time to read through it again. Maybe even print it off and read it to your kids before you have your fireworks event. Or forward it (anonymously, if necessary) to someone who could use the education.

If you want dessert, then the web site also has the Constitution available. I recommend an annual reading of that, too. Especially since it’s a Presidential Election year.

Have a fantastic and safe Independence Day!!

Here’s the link.

http://www.archives.gov/exhibits/charters/declaration.html

2. What Do Republicans Say About Democrats?

Next week’s Ezine will be on the subject of the things Republican fund raising letters say about Democrats. Look at last week’s Ezine if you want to see what Democrats say about Republicans.

By the way, if you’re reading this on my blog, then welcome. I duplicate my weekly Ezine here for those who may not be able to get my Ezine as an email for various reasons. If you’d like to be able to get this as an email with its graphics and ease of forwarding, then please go to my web site to sign up.