Approximately six weeks ago the citizens of Saybrook were informed that there would not be a Freedom Festival Celebration this year.

After several decades of a day filled with excitement, a parade, family and class reunions, tractor and car shows, child and adult competition, good food, music and ending with perhaps the best fireworks display to be seen in eastern McLean County, such news was not accepted by the community.

As a result, the village clerk, Karen Durham, met the challenge and convened a series of very well attended meetings of volunteers that produced - despite obstacles - an outstanding 2009 Freedom Festival. Moreover, they gave the event a label that, in my opinion, sent a significant message to Central Illinois: "Community Pride."

As the mayor of Saybrook, I want to express a sincere thank you from myself and the citizens of Saybrook and Cheneys Grove Township to the significant number of people and organizations who demonstrate the "Community Pride" that produced a very successful day.

Although each member of the long list of individuals who dedicated themselves to the task deserves mention I am unfortunately limited to highlighting only a few, such as Shelly Stevens, Alicia Bottles and Lisa Keith. To the more than 20 other participants, please accept my deeply felt apology

Again, thank you.

Mayor Patrick Lewis

Saybrook