Happy Fourth of July

Two hundred thirty three years ago today, on July 4, 1776, our forefathers in the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence which announced that the thirteen American colonies then at war with Great Britain were now independent states, and thus no longer a part of the British Empire. Written primarily by Thomas Jefferson, the Declaration is a formal explanation of why Congress had voted on July 2 to declare independence from Great Britain, more than a year after the outbreak of the American Revolutionary War. The birthday of the United States of America—Independence Day—is celebrated on July 4, the day the wording of the Declaration was approved by Congress.

The Declaration justified the independence of the United States by listing colonial grievances against King George III, and by asserting certain natural rights, including a right of revolution. Having served its original purpose in announcing independence, the text of the Declaration was initially ignored after the American Revolution. Its stature grew over the years, particularly the second sentence, a sweeping statement of human rights:

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.
(Wikipedia)

Today we celebrate this day, the birth of liberty, with parades, picnics, barbecues, music and fireworks. Jerry and I will be spending the day with his brother's family in Escalon...always great food and great company.

From one year ago:
59th Army Band of the California Army National Guard marching in the parade down Mt Herman Road...Jerry is 2nd from the right in the front row (trombones).
After the parade there was a great concert in Sky Park of Scotts Valley. The 59th Army Band of the California Army National Guard is superb---excellent musicians! Above: Jerry warming up his bass trombone before the concert Above: California Army National Guard 59th Army Band in concert at Sky Park in Scotts Valley, CA Here I am enjoying a wonderful concert on a nice hot 4th of July.

Have a glorious Fourth with friends and family!