Happy Birthday America! : 4 July 1776 - 2007

Most colonists didn't seek to be independent from Britain. Declaring independence was still a radical idea in May 1775. The New England settlers had been raised to revere English customs, royalty, and history. Despite their outrage at the taxes they had been subjected to, most hoped to reach a peaceful settlement with the Mother Land. In a last ditch effort Congress sent an "Olive Branch" petition to King George. Six months later Congress learned King George had again refused their offerings. In January 1776, Thomas Paine published a little book called Common Sense. The best-selling pamphlet took what the colonists were feeling and put it into words. By summertime, Congress was ready to formally declare independence.

Thomas Jefferson, age 33, one of the youngest delegates to the Second Continental Congress; was chosen to write the Declaration of Independence. He produced it in just seventeen days. [ It's taken me longer to write to-do lists ] Jefferson had broad interests and a natural curiosity. He was a lawyer, politician, musician, architect, naturalist, and inventor. He spoke six languages, served as ambassador to France, our second vice president and third president of the United States. Jefferson passed away on 4 July 1826.

John Adams, the son of a farmer, became a lawyer and a member of the committee that drafted the Declaration of Independence. He was urged into patriot activity by his infamous cousin, Samuel Adams. He later served as vice president to George Washington, and then president himself. He lived to see his son become our sixth president. Adams died on 4 July 1826, the exact day as Thomas Jefferson-and the fiftieth anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

Kenneth C. Davis, author of best-selling book, Don't Know Much About History, reminds us the men who adopted and signed the Declaration of Independence were risking their own lives. As British citizens, they could be tried and hanged for treason. We certainly owe our fore-fathers gratitude for their bravery, and the idea of individual rights, and freedom that gave birth to this Nation.

While you are having your burgers and suds don't forget to salute a veteran. It's not hard to find a veteran or active military where I live. The Air Force Base is 5 miles away and the Navy Base is on the beach. There are many churches and organizations sponsoring free barbecue for all veterans, active duty, and their family. There are too many to list, believe me, you couldn't through a hot dog without hitting an, ALL WELCOME, sign.

Independence on the Coast : An all day pirate themed festival ending with fireworks at Frank Pate Park in Port St. Joe.

Salute to Freedom: All day annual Independence Day celebration at Panama City Marina. Non-stop "Live" entertainment. A beautiful fireworks show at dark over the Bay. Many area boaters participate in the Parade of Boats.

On Panama City Beach: A dedication of the Bay County Veterans Memorial, will lead off the Beach Independence Day at Pier Park. There will be the laying of the ceremonial wreath and a fly-by of Tyndall Air Force Base fighter jets. The Bay County Veterans Council is conducting the celebration, so all branches of the military, and local survivors of all Wars will be in attendance. Don't miss the opportunity to show your support to all the men and women who serve this country.

City of Lynn Haven: They begin bright and early with a flag-raising ceremony and singing of the national anthem. Lynn Haven is known for their parade that gets bigger and better every year. There are lots of entertainment for the kids; pony rides, inflatables, and a fishing rodeo for ages 12 and under. For the bigger kids and kids at heart; a horseshoe contest, and watermelon-eating contest. The North Bay Indian Clan in traditional costume will be drumming and performing native dance, in my favorite part of the festivities. The band "Pure Country" will play in the afternoon with plenty of food, arts and crafts vendors on hand. At dusk, one of the best fireworks displays in the area.

The Betsy Ann Riverboat will be sailing out on a Fireworks Cruise, 3rd and 4th of July. She is docked behind Howard Johnson's on Highway 98. They also have a Sunset Dinner Cruise and "Comedy Zone" every Friday night.

Have a safe holiday. According to our local newspaper, the News Herald, 5 July starts Beach Clean Up Week. Everyone meet up on the Beach with trash bags, to show the pride we take in this land; that was made for you and me.