Editor, Gazette-Journal:

There are few things more American than the 4th of July. And, in Mathews County, I believe this past weekend represented all that is truly great about our community:

An unbelievably impressive fireworks display that is paid for and orchestrated by our community. Rivers and bays filled with boaters, fishermen and families genuinely enjoying all of the amazing waterfront our county has to offer. A farmers’ market that rivals that of any city. A Main Street lined with antiques, art and shopping. And a county full of first-class restaurants offering the finest food enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

In a world where there is so much crime, abuse and fear, our great county is only getting better with age. I believe a large portion of the credit goes to our sheriff’s office. I would like to say thank you to Sheriff Mark Barrick, Major John Williams and the entire team. Our streets are safe to walk. Our roads are vigilantly patrolled. Drug- and crimi...