July Message

THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH: “Be the change that you wish to see in the world.”                                                                                               Mahatma Gandhi            

This month we celebrate Independence Day! On July 4th, the Continental Congress formally adopted the Declaration of Independence, which had been written largely by Thomas Jefferson. Though the vote for actual independence took place on July 2nd, from then on, the 4th became the day that was celebrated as the birth of American independence. America declared its independence from Great Britain. To fully understand the significance of Independence Day and what happened in 1776, we need to go back in history a bit. Before America was its own Country, it was comprised of 13 colonies established by Great Britain. The first colony was settled in Jamestown, Virginia, in 1607. European countries, especially Great Britain, continued to colonize America throughout the 17th century and a good portion of the 18th century. By 1775, an estimated 2.5 million settlers lived in the 13 colonies: New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Delaware, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia. Just a little background for our history buffs. So, as families gather to enjoy barbecues, watch the parades, fireworks, and listen to concerts, let us truly remember what and why we celebrate this special day. Happy Independence Day and may God Bless America!