Sullivan County will once again be hopping during the next few months as the summer season officially begins. Secondary homeowners, campers, bungalow colonies, and tourists will be vacationing in the area. Bethel Woods will be introducing new people to our neck of the woods starting this weekend.

We often forget what July 4truly means, and how it affects each and every one of us. As this great holiday approaches, we need to all sit back, reflect, and be thankful for the true Independence our country grants us.

There is no place in the world that we have the opportunity for free speech as we do in America.

I might infuriate some people with my columns because I tell it as I see it - and I push some buttons while doing so. Others praise me for what I am writing, because they say I am waking people up, and opening up constructive dialogue. I for one truly care about Sullivan County and our future.

We need to see positive change here, and discussion of issues and how we approach them can be a great beginning.

Whether one disagrees with me or not, or wants to twist the truths I have written, and turn it around into something else - our country grants them the right and freedom to do so.

Many of us forget how fortunate we are to be living here. And what a true melting pot we are. We might not understand differences - but we must learn to tolerate and respect them.

We all strive for the same goals and quality of life. Some of our customs, political beliefs, and the way we approach life may vary.

For example, every summer, Sullivan County is inundated with diverse groups. Some of our summer residents dress differently – and live life atypical from what we consider the norm. Understanding and acceptance can go a long way. Tempers need not boil over.

Sullivan County Legislator Jodi Goodman must be singled out for her efforts in helping us to understand our summer Hassidic population - and them us. The committee she began a few years back which deals with our influx of summer inhabitants has gone a long way. The goals of her group are to resolve problems before they begin. All of those who participate in the meetings must be applauded. That is the true meaning of Independence.

As we celebrate this weekend, and many of us BBQ, our highly anticipated Bethel Woods Performing Arts Center will open. People from all over will be visiting us as they attend concerts throughout the summer. This will be our opportunity to show outsiders Sullivan County hospitality.

While on that supermarket line, pumping gas, or waiting to be seated at a restaurant, talk to the person next to you. Start the dialogue. Give them a positive impression of Sullivan County’s year round community. It will go a long way for all of us.

As we all celebrate this holiday weekend, consider that in many countries people are still repressed. Look at the Middle East, China, North Korea, and so on. We truly are a nation of freedom and independence.

On July 4th there is a great Street Fair along Main Street in Liberty. See first hand many of our diverse groups participating in the event hand in hand. Sullivan County is a true meting pot.

Let us be thankful we live in the United States of America - Happy 4th of July.

Email Bill