July Fourth is one of those American holidays that evoke fond memories. It's a time for family picnics, community celebrations, fun in the sun, and of course, fireworks. It's also a time marked by patriotism, as we remember those who fought for our freedom over 200 years ago, as well as those who continue to serve on our behalf today. I know I'm not alone in saying that the sound of The Star Spangled Banner being played at a Fourth of July parade brings tears to my eyes; I consider myself blessed to live in this great country.

WASHINGTON - The implicit message, delivered by the Supreme Court majority in two of the most important decisions of the term that ended this week, is that racial discrimination is no longer as big a problem as we once thought.

Sen. Paul Koering

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