Our 249th Year of...

Celebration  

     Philidelphia and Boston did it...with ships firing 13 cannon salutes. That was July 4, 1777, a year after the Continental Congress passed the final version of the declaration. 13 American colonies were at war with Britian until October 1781.  

     Not that Americans ever gave 100 percent approval - the colony of New York abstained on the first vote - and people still don't agree. Thanks to George Washington and his troops, and France and Spain, King George got the message. But he wasn't forgotten. They had mock funerals for him, symbols of the end of monarchy and tyranny, and the rebirth of liberty.

     In 1938, July 4 became a paid, federal holiday. I don't recall leaping in my mother's womb. 

     Today we disagree on most everything...except celebrations. We spend $1 billion on fireworks. Anyone can celebrate whether or not freedom is the reason. Each year it seems there is an increase in parades, fireworks, shows, picnics, concerts and oratory. And airline and vehicle travel. 

     Did you know, early celebrations were modeled after the British king's birthday events? Later on, abolitionists, women's groups, opponents of immigration and others used July 4th to gain attention. This holiday is still a symbol of national strength and American qualities...though at times we wonder if our own George is rolling over in his grave. 

     As for today, we hope you dressed your dog in red, white and blue, and we'll be back Monday with - The Primary Reality. 

          Jimmy