American patriotism rooted in common values
BY MARICOPA COUNTY SUPERVISOR DENNY BARNEY, DISTRICT 1
May, June and July form a staircase of patriotism and history. On Memorial Day, we pause to pay homage to all whom have lost their lives serving in the U.S. military.
June 6 is D-Day, the Battle of Normandy, the turning point in World War II.
June 14 is Flag Day, observing the adoption of the American Flag in 1777. The greatest of these, July 4, Independence Day, we celebrate the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 and the birth of the nation.
Consider the words of some great Americans, who remind us of our unique heritage.
American patriotism
“The freedom and happiness of man...(are) the sole objects of all legitimate government.”— Thomas Jefferson.
concepts of liberty are reflective of one of God’s greatest gifts to humanity—free will. Citizens are unencumbered to choose where to live, who to marry or how to earn a living. This leaves more room for greater individual expression and creation which honors and glorifies the Divine.
Denny Barney.
The experience of American patriotism is unique. American patriotism is rooted in common values. It’s more than love of country; it’s love of ideals. Jefferson’s idea that government serves the individual was beyond revolutionary—it was radical. It has defined and connected us as Americans ever since.
Divine providence
“The longer I live, the more convincing proofs I see of this truth—that God governs in the affairs of men. And if a sparrow cannot fall to the ground without His notice, is it probable that an empire can rise without His aid?”—Benjamin Franklin.
America was founded upon the belief that each man was endowed with inalienable rights by the Creator. Each of us created equally, no one inherently elevated above another. This equality mirrors God’s love. All receive it regardless of circumstance, wealth or education.
In tandem to equality is the freedom by which to act upon it. The United States’
Service leadership
“All see, and most admire, the glare which hovers round the external trappings of elevated office. To me there is nothing in it, beyond the lustre which may be reflected from its connection with a power of promoting human felicity.”—
George Washington.
I had to read this quote several times before I caught its full impact. Our Founding Fathers believed elected office was an opportunity to express benevolence, stewardship and integrity toward our fellow man. There is perhaps no greater example of this than George Washington. He served two terms despite the urgings of his countrymen to serve a third. A deeply principled man, he exemplified the spirit of service leadership. Freedom isn’t free
“What we obtain too cheap, we esteem too lightly: it is dearness only that gives everything its value.”—Thomas Paine
This might sound trite. Sacrifice is not always popular. But almost 1.5 million men and women have paid the ultimate sacrifice since 1776.
We all have an obligation to our country, whether you’re a teacher, doctor or businessman. We are all entitled to the same liberties, accountable to the same justices— and responsible for the endurance of both.
Happy Independence Day.
For more information about Denny Barney, visit www.maricopa.gov/dist1/ biography.aspx.
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Celebrate National Park and Recreation Month ‘80s style
BY JACK SELLERS, CITY OF CHANDLER CITY COUNCILMAN
The Parks and Recreation Division offers hundreds of classes and programs throughout the year. The staff takes pride in understanding the community’s needs and interests to provide a variety of options at affordable prices. I’m proud of the work and enthusiasm that is put into making our community a place where our residents can play and be healthy. In celebration of National Park and Recreation Month this July, Chandler staff is taking it a little further by offering ‘80s-themed classes and programs at throwback pricing. Some may wonder what the ‘80s were all about, while others remember the big hair, neon colors and favorite bands. Let’s take a step or two back in time. Find that favorite ‘80s attire, grab a date and attend the first “Retro” Adult Prom from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, July 24, at the Tumbleweed Recreation Center. If prom wasn’t what you had in mind, then you’re sure to find something that is. July is full of retro-themed classes and programs for all ages. Jazzercise, Buns of Steel and Steps are a few of the exercise classes that will be offered. Denise Austin would be proud, but if group exercise wasn’t on your list, check out what the City’s Aquatics Division has to offer. It will be hosting Atomic Comic Superheroes at Folley Memorial Park, Nintendo Night at Desert Oasis Aquatic Center, and ‘80s Karaoke at Hamilton Aquatic Center. There will be games and activities on deck and in the water. Each event is held on a different day. Visit www.chandleraz.gov/aquatics for more information.
Center, where movies such as “The Little Mermaid,” “Karate Kid,” and “Gremlins” will be shown for free. Of course, we can’t forget some of those famous board games either. Throwback Thursday Game Night will be held from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday, July 9, at Tumbleweed Recreation Center for ages 8 to 16 years. Attendees can enjoy a human version of Pac-Man, Hungry Hungry Hippos and Twister, to name a few. Attendees of the ‘80s-themed events may also be entered into a drawing to win one of three Parks and Recreation Prize Packs. Every person who participates will receive a “My Chandler Mix” card shaped like a cassette tape. The more you participate, the more chances you have to win. Prize packs include activities that families and couples can enjoy together. Chandler’s Parks and Recreation Division has something for everyone. In addition to the recreation classes and programs, there are six area pools and aquatic facilities with swim classes scheduled year around. More than 1,000 acres of park land is available throughout the City for the enjoyment of our residents. Summer in Chandler also is an important time to observe both heat and water safety tips—not only during these months but throughout the year. We want everyone to have a safe experience and enjoy everything our community has to offer. For registration and information on all classes and programs offered through the Parks and Recreation Division, please visit our website at www.chandleraz.gov/ parksandrec. And, if you have a fun moment to share, make sure to take a picture and tag it with the hashtag #JulyPRM30 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
For those who want a more laid-back experience, Friday Flick and Fun Nights will be held at the Chandler Community
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5 p.m. Thursday, July 9, 2015 for the Saturday, July 18, 2015, issue 35,000
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