Happy Independence Day! On this day celebrating our great nation, we encourage all our members and supporters to remember that voting is both a right and a duty.

Our representative government is, in the words of Abraham Lincoln, "of the people, by the people, for the people." It is our right to have a voice in that government, and our duty to vote, to keep that government from the hands of those who would turn it to their own benefit.

Whatever you believe, whether you are conservative or liberal, whether you call yourself a Democrat or a Republican, you are charged as citizens to get informed, get involved, and vote.

• Get informed on the issues important to moderate voters
• Get involved with your community and candidates
• Learn what you need to know about voting

Thank you, and have a safe Fourth of July.