Dear Friends and Clients,
Happy Independence Day! Hard to believe our republic, this grand experiment in democracy, turns a healthy 248 years old this July 4. That’s a long time removed from July 1776, when the first Independence Day celebration took place in Philadelphia. Back then, our newly independent nation had a population of 2.5 million. Today our estimated population is over 341 million.
Suffice to say, we’ve grown a lot since 1776. But, through it all, we’ve held onto the joyful, optimistic spirit that embodies our July Fourth festivities. Since its formal creation in 1941, the Fourth of July holiday has brought our country an opportunity for heartfelt celebration, true comradery, closeness with those we love and a sense of patriotism we can wear proudly.
We have John Adams, our second president, to thank for many of our boisterous Fourth of July traditions. When the Declaration of Independence was approved, he requested we celebrate with “pomp and parade,” with shows, games, sports, bells, bonfires and illuminations, from “one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forevermore.” You don’t have to ask us twice, John.
I hope you and your loved ones are able to celebrate freedom and all things American this year, and for many years to come. Thank you for your continued confidence in us. It’s an honor to serve you.
Sincerely,
