Another Independence Day is upon us and as we pause to celebrate and honor the struggles and sacrifices made to secure and ensure our freedom, we also want to remember our blessings. From the little things, like grilling and sparklers, to much greater things like those in our military who have been and are on the front lines protecting democracy, we are thankful for the bounty to which we are privileged.
Just as our employee-owners work each day to maintain our great company, we also work each day to contribute to our great nation. As we celebrate our independence, be proud of our country and this 100 percent employee-owned, American company. Be engaged in what is happening in your communities and across the U.S.A. Help make a positive impact where you can, when you can. Last, but by no means least, remember those who have served or who are serving our country, they help to make freedom (and employee-ownership) possible.
While you are making plans for the grill and light show, enjoy these tidbits about our 4th of July.
*Though the Continental Congress voted for Independence on July 2, the declaration was not approved until July 4th, 1776.
*Massachusetts was the first state to make July 4th a state holiday (1781).
*It was not until 1941 that Congress declared Independence Day a federal (legal) holiday.
*Bristol, Rhode Island is home to the oldest continuous July 4th celebration (beginning in 1785).
*Two of the original founding fathers, Thomas Jefferson and John Adams, both died on the same day, 50 years to the day, July 4th, 1826.
*It is estimated that America eats over 150 million hot dogs on July 4th—that many dogs, laid end to end, would stretch from DC to LA more than 5 times.
*More than 14,000 fireworks shows are estimated to dazzle across the U.S. on July 4th.
*The Largest Independence Day Fireworks show in the country is believed to be Macy’s show in New York City.
Keep safety a value with the following tips.
*Alcohol and fireworks do NOT mix
*Wear your PPE – protect those hands, eyes, and heads (and the rest of every body)
*Have a bucket of water, charged water hose, and/or fire extinguisher(s) at the ready
*Use fireworks outdoors, in clear areas, away from buildings and vehicles (you can prevent fires and injuries)
*A responsible adult should supervise all firework activities
*Soak ‘dud’ fireworks in a container of water, do not attempt to relight
*Have at least one good working flashlight and a spare set of batteries
*Don’t forget your bug spray (but remember, no DEET if you are wearing FR clothing)
*Never carry fireworks in your pockets
*If people will be close to where fireworks are set off, consider hearing protection
*Transport fireworks safely
*Never shoot fireworks at other people, animals, homes, property, or into metal or glass containers
*Please make sure that each and every person has a safe sober way home
