“America is best described in one word--freedom” Dwight D. Eisenhower
As Americans, we celebrate Independence Day on July 4th to honor our nation’s birthday and the Declaration of Independence. It is day replete with parades, cookouts, picnics, waving flags, and fireworks--and a heavy dose of patriotism.
DISTINCTIVE DATES:
- JULY 4, 1776: The Second Continental Congress completed its work on the Declaration of Independence.
- JULY 8, 1776: Independence Day was first Celebrated in Philadelphia on, and the Liberty Bell was sounded on that day.
- JULY 4, 1804: The first public celebration was held at the White House
- JULY 4, 1826: Both Thomas Jefferson and John Adams died on this day.
- JULY 4, 1941: Independence Day was first celebrated as a federal legal holiday
“There is nothing wrong with America that cannot be cured with what is right with America.” Bill Clinton
PATRIOTIC PLACES:
Ever been to Liberty, MO? How about Libertyville, New Liberty, North Liberty, or East Liberty--all in Iowa? And then there are the eleven places with Independence in their names and five which feature Freedom; Freedom, CA, is the largest of these. Five more towns sport the word America, but only one can lay claim to Patriot, and that is a spot in Indiana with a population of 202.
Did you know that there is a one-gun salute fired at noon on July 4th on every capable military base? It is called the Salute to the Union.
IT’S A GRAND OLD FLAG:
And there are specific rules about displaying it proudly and properly. Here you can brush up on the do’s and don’t's for honoring Old Glory.
Be sure to take time to honor our military and their families for the sacrifices they make each and every day so we can be free! Something as simple as saying ‘Thank you’ can make a Vets day!
FABULOUS FOOD:
Having a cookout or picnic with friends and family? Think about foods that come in patriotic colors--white snow cone cups filled with red and blue berries, or use the three colors to make napkins which you tie with red, white, and blue patterned shoelaces instead of napkin rings. Be sure to offer hot dogs, hamburgers, cole slaw, potato salad, baked beans, and watermelon for an all-American meal. Maybe even Mom’s apple pie to top it off! Get many delicious recipes and grilling ideas and safety tips.
FIREWORKS FINALE:
Nearly every U.S. city or town offers an exciting fireworks display to end the day’s festivities, and we’re never too old or too young to ‘ooh and ah’ at the spectacle. Some notable shows are held at the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, the Charles River in Boston, Mt. Rushmore, the Rose Bowl, and the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Perhaps the longest celebration is fittingly held in Philadelphia--a 9 day festival culminating in back-to-back fireworks!
George Washington once said, “Liberty, when it begins to take root, is a plant of rapid growth.” Do remember, however, that such a plant needs to cherished, taken care of, nourished, and protected by each and every American.
HAVE A SAFE AND HAPPY FOURTH!!!
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