As families across the 3rd District prepare to celebrate the Fourth of July with food, fireworks and fun, we should also take the opportunity to reflect on the many rights and freedoms that we enjoy in our great nation.
Let us remember that freedom is not free and we must protect the rights that so many of our fellow citizens fought to secure for us. As we prepare to celebrate our nation's birthday, we should be thankful that we have the freedom to do so and always remain vigilant against those who seek to take it away.
For the past 239 years, Independence Day has been celebrated by Americans both at home and abroad. The Fourth of July is considered a day to celebrate our roots and to recall the sacrifices that have been made by so many before us.
As the fourth nears, I think fondly of Fourth of July parades that I have participated in across the 3rd District.
Even if the temperature is around 90 degrees, the turnout is always astounding as I walked the path and see the streets lined with young ones and their parents all decked out in red, white and blue and smiling as they wave a miniature American flag.
Regardless of what is happening across the United States or across the globe - it is a wonderful feeling seeing communities come together to celebrate a country that we love so dearly.
I hope everyone is able to celebrate this Fourth of July with friends, family and loved ones.
And let us not forget that great spirit of our nation as we deal with the many challenges facing us in these sometimes difficult days.
On behalf of myself, my family, and my staff - I hope everyone has a safe and wonderful Fourth of July.
U.S. Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer, R-Mo., represents the state's 3rd District, which includes Jefferson City. His local office can be reached at 573-635-7232.
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Constituent service days
Members of Congressman Blaine Luetkemeyer's staff will be available to meet with 3rd District consitutents at the following times and places.
Tuesday, July 7
Cole County: 9-10 a.m., St Martins City Hall, 6909 W. Business HW 50, St. Martins.
Osage County: 10:30-11:30 a.m., Osage County Administrative Building. 205 E Main Street, Linn.
Gasconade County: 11- noon, Rosebud City Hall. 307 Cedar Street, Rosebud.
Callaway County: 3-4 p.m., Fulton City Hall, 18 E 4th Street, Fulton.
Wednesday, July 8
Maries County: 9:30-10:30 a.m., Vienna City Hall, 424 8th Street, Vienna.
Miller County: 11-noon, Tuscumbia City Hall, 2100 Hwy 52, Tuscumbia.
Camden County: 2.-3 p.m., Lake Ozark City Hall, 3162 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Lake Ozark.