The following column was published by the Lapeer County Press on Saturday, January 24:

As we recently turned to a new year, we are celebrating two special milestones this January.

On Jan. 26, 1837 — nearly 190 years ago — the “territory” of Michigan was admitted to the union as the 26th state. Our unique geography with the two peninsulas we call home came through an infamous trade negotiated by President Andrew Jackson with Ohio for what was then known as the Toledo Strip.

In those many years since, we have left an indelible mark. Our manufacturing prowess helped give the world the automobile. Detroit grew to be known as the “Arsenal of Democracy” by President Franklin D. Roosevelt during World War II due to its incredibly talented workforce and production capability.

We’ve been a source for our nation’s spectacular growth both economically and structurally. In the late 1800s, Michigan produced as much lumber as the next three highest-producing states combined, helping build neighborhoods, railways, tools, shipping crates, and more. Our 20 million acres of forest land continue to support a vital industry and livelihoods for many.

We’ve also been an agricultural leader and have helped families across the country and beyond put food on the table. From dairy products to grains, corn, soybeans, and more, hardworking Michigan farmers have had a hand in it for generations.

Intertwined with Michigan’s birthday is the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, when 13 colonies stood together and said they were united, free and independent states. For the first time in world history, a new nation was established based on the rule of law, unalienable rights for citizens, and a limited, representative government that followed the will of the people.

Similar to Michigan’s rich history, the United States of America has shown enduring strength, prosperity, leadership and world-renowned innovation since it was established. Through our steadfast commitment to the ideals of democracy, we have been a beacon of freedom around the world – liberating continents from the grips of tyranny and supporting our allies who exemplify these shared values. We planted our nation’s flag on the Moon, harnessed electricity into light, ushered in the era of air travel, cured diseases, and established the world’s largest economy through the unrelenting spirit of the American worker that saw “Made in America” become the gold standard.

While news stories can often illustrate our differences, it is through the fabric of America that we can freely express them. After all, there was a lot of disagreement and careful debate between our founders when writing of our Constitution, which should serve as a continued reminder of what can be accomplished through respectful discourse and standing for what is right and just. I am hopeful that in the months ahead, we can all celebrate as citizens of this great state and nation, recognize the contributions of so many before us, see how far we’ve come, and look forward to future generations of success together.

Our Founding Fathers stated, “Eternal vigilance is the price of freedom.” Likewise, when asked what form of delegate government our Founders created, Benjamin Franklin stated, “A republic, if you can keep it.” We must forever be grateful for the wisdom and courage our Founding Fathers had, and we must ever be vigilant to maintain the heritage and government we have.