At our Independence Day celebrations, it behoofs the American public to pay attention to flag etiquette.

"The flag is one of this country's most enduring symbols of liberty and justice for all and must be handled respectfully," said Secretary of State Mark Ritchie in a press release this week. "When celebrating our independence on July 4, we have a great opportunity to teach our younger generations about flag etiquette. This brochure is an important resource that assists in the area of civic education."

A Guide to Flag Etiquette is available free by e-mailing the Office of the Secretary of State at secretary.state@state.mn.us [1] or by calling 651-201-1324. Quantities are available for distribution to groups and classrooms. The brochure is also available online at www.sos.state.mn.us/docs/flag_etiquette.pdf [2].