I know many folks are looking for my column to see what my take was on last week’s debate. Well, I don’t want to disappoint any of my readers; this includes Republicans, Democrats, and whoever else may be reading. Let me first say I’ve already spent more space on the debate than it deserves. I will follow that up with, if I would not have felt an obligation as an American voter to watch, I would have turned it off shortly after it began. I will end my thoughts with, it was exactly what I expected. And now, it’s time to move on and try to unite my fellow Americans in celebration of our 248th Independence Day.

I would like to begin an All-American salute to Toby Keith. Our Nation lost one of the greatest country artists earlier this year, whose love for the Red, White, and Blue was exemplified within his music. As our Nation sets the sky aglow with rockets’ red glare and bombs bursting in the air, Toby Keith’s voice will Set the Night to Music. His hits, “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue,” “Made in America,” “American Ride,” and “American Soldier,” have become 4th of July classics, appreciated by all Americans.

One of my favorite songs in which he teamed up with Willie Nelson provides a perfect toast in memory of Toby. As we unite to celebrate everything that is great within our Nation, I salute him with whiskey for his men and beer for his horses.

I can’t think of a better way to be remembered as an American than for it to happen on our Independence Day. Rest in peace, Toby Keith.

Happy 4th of July, America! As you celebrate everything that is the United States of America leading up to and on Independence Day, please take a moment to reflect and give thanks to God for the true blessing of our Nation. It is truly an amazing place. I suggest you add in your prayer a mention of unity so we all can come together as one in respect and honor.

All of the freedoms and everything enjoyed every day and celebrated on the 4th of July, and every day have been fought for, earned, and protected by the men and women of the United States military. Please take a moment to talk with your children, explain what the 4th of July is really all about, and the effort and commitment of our service men at home and around the world. In a time when the word hero is used way too often, please help our future generations to recognize these true American Heroes.

As you’re enjoying that summer picnic accompanied by the great smell of hot dogs and hamburgers on the grill, your favorite music playing in the background, and maybe a friendly game of softball, Kan Jam, horseshoes, or some other American tradition, take a moment to realize just how alike we all are. It has nothing to do with color, choice of religion, or anything else — especially political affiliation. It has everything to do with the freedom and rights provided under the American Flag and our being able to use them in any way we want.

One of the greatest things about our Nation is that we can all be different. Back to educating future generations, it’s also important they understand the responsibilities that come along with their freedom.

I will finish my Independence Day thoughts with the public service message I probably should have worked in with the whiskey for your men and beer for your horses. As you’re enjoying what has become more like a week of celebration instead of just the 4th of July, don’t drink and drive.

I understand that nothing goes better with that baseball game — maybe a little fishing or a tailgate watching the fireworks — than an ice-cold adult beverage, but please don’t let this turn a celebration into a tragedy.

I will finish up this week with a picture of our Great American Cookout Giveaway winner. Thank you again to Elery Nau for providing and assembling the grill, Rupert’s Specialty Meats for the sides, and Frosty Beverage for ice-cold beverages to wash it down.

Congratulations to Laura Shook. Thank you for reading, thank you for entering, and it was great to make your acquaintance, enjoy!

Let’s all be careful out there and love one another.

God Bless America.