Happy birthday to the Stars and Stripes Forever

John Philip Sousa’s famous American patriotic composition, “The Stars and Stripes Forever,” made its public debut on May 14, 1897. The popular composer (1854-1932), later known as the March King, led his Sousa Band for the number, performing it in a Philadelphia concert.

From that point on, Sousa’s Band never completed a performance without playing “The Stars and Stripes Forever.”

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In 1987, a full century later, U.S. President Ronald Reagan officially declared the rousing and rhythmic song as America’s National March.

“The Stars and Stripes Forever” is an American parade and patriotic performance staple.

Image/s:

Patriotic Image

Public Domain

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Smart ways to keep families and fur babies safe on July 4th

American Independence Day, celebrated each year on July 4^th, is a national highlight. Barbecues, parades, fireworks, and other traditions light up the eyes of children and grownups. But this happy holiday also carries significantly increased risks of accidents, injuries, and other dangers for people and pets.

What can folks do to increase 4^th of July safety for everyone, keeping Independence Day celebrations free from tragedy?

Check out these helpful July 4^th safety tips from a big bunch of web writers.

12 tips for safe horses during 4th of July fireworks – Linda Ann Nickerson. What can horse owners to do prevent panic and keep their horses safe during 4th of July fireworks and festivities? Here are 12 tips for keeping horses calm and secure on the 4th of July, as firecrackers explode and fireworks light up the sky.

Having a safe July 4^th – Richard Webster. State fire marshals remind everyone across America about the dangers of fire as a result of improperly extinguished smoking materials and fireworks, especially during Independence Day celebrations.

Stable dogs and summer safety: Helping hot dogs at the barn - Equestrian Examiner. How can equestrians and others keep dogs safe and prevent them from overheating on sweltering days?

Pet safety: July 4th is no holiday for pets – Lita Peterson. According to pet experts, more companion animals go missing during the 4th of July than any other time of the year. The booms, bangs and lights associated with fireworks may be fun and exciting for us, but it can be stressful and even traumatic for dogs or cats. What can we do to keep pets safe?

Fireworks etiquette: 10 courtesy tips for holiday pyrotechnics enthusiasts - Chicago Etiquette Examiner. Here are 10 fireworks etiquette tips, which may help make public pyrotechnics displays more festive and fun for everyone.
 

4th of July: 15 safety tips for DIY fireworks displays - Madison Holidays Examiner.  Fireworks are fun, especially for the Fourth of July. These exciting incendiary displays are perennial crowd-pleasers, as long as folks follow a few basic safety guidelines.

Happy July 4^th! Be safe out there!

* Looking for tees and great Fourth of July gifts? 

Find primo patriotic designs at Bold American - on CafePress. *

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Created by this user

on CoolText.

Patriotic clipart - public domain

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Anyone for free Starbucks coffee on the 4th of July?

The mercury may be topping out at 100 degrees (F) on July 4^th this year, but Starbucks is giving out free tall cups of hot fresh-brewed coffee.

No codes, coupons, printouts or customer loyalty cards are needed.

Politics are heating up as well, and Starbucks is tapping into the controversy.

Howard Schultz, the 58-year-old chairman of Starbucks, issued a public letter last week, calling for Americans to unite as citizens and call for change in the political arena.

“How can America win this election?” Schultz asked.

“I love America, but we all know there is something wrong,” he continued. “The deficits this country must reconcile are much more than financial, and our inability to solve our own problems is sapping our national spirit. We are better than this. America’s history has showed that we have accomplished extraordinary things when we act collectively, with courage, creativity, and generosity of spirit—especially during trying times.”

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The free coffee offer, good in all participating Starbucks locations all day on July 4^th, is aimed at sparking in-person discussions of politics.

Starbucks’ free coffee offer is good only on Independence Day and is limited to one free coffee per person. Certain specialty coffees are not included.

Image/s:  

Starbucks Coffee Logo – Fair Use

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Flag Day Fun and Fundamentals

June 14^th is Flag Day in the United States. On this date, we fly Old Glory proudly, showing our true American colors.

This patriotic celebration marks the date of the adoption of the U.S. flag, which took place on June 14, 1777, in the Second Continental Congress. Delegates from all 13 colonies met in Philadelphia, adopting the First Flag Resolution on this date.

The first Flag Day observance was held at Stony Hill School in Waubeka, Wisconsin, in 1885. Schoolteacher Bernard J. Cigrand placed a small flag on his classroom desk before assigning his students to write essays on the American flag.

In 1949, U.S. President Harry Truman signed an Act of Congress, making June 14^th the nation’s official Flag Day.

Check out these helpful Flag Day articles, penned by a variety of web writers.

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What does Flag Day mean?

The Meaning of Flag Day & Basic Flag Etiquette – Jason Gallagher

The meaning of Flag Day and basic flag etiquette can be a little confusing, but taking a few minutes to learn the meaning of the day and how to fly Old Glory properly is always a great idea.

What is the Meaning of Flag Day? – Ted Sherman

This article discusses the holiday of Flag Day, including its originals and how its currently celebrated across the US.

Three Great Children's Books About Flag Day – Stephanie Raney

Here’s a look at three interesting books about Flag Day that were specifically written for kids.

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What are the proper rules of American flag etiquette?

In Honor of Flag Day – Linda StCyr

There are an abundance of rules to follow when dealing with the flag, this article lets you know which days to sail the flag at half staff. Here are several.

In Honor of Flag Day – Harriet Steinberg

We shall always honor our flag. We shall give special honor every year on June 14. Read up on more Flag Day facts.

Helpful Hints for Flying Your American Flag – Rick Blaine

Helpful hints for the proper and respectful display of the American flag. The arrival of summer marks the season for flag-flying - especially as Memorial Day, Flag Day and the Fourth of July roll around. Here are some important things to remember as you get out your American flag and proudly fly it this year.

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Looking for more Flag Day fun?

Flag Day Coloring Pages – Michelle M. Guilbeau

Flag Day is celebrated on June 14 in the United States, the day is a celebration of the adoption of the American Flag. An excellent and easy way to celebrate this monumental event with children is by offering free printable Flag Day coloring pages.

Popsicle Stick American Flag Kid Craft – Cyndee Kromminga

This American flag Popsicle stick craft is a terrific project for children and the hot days of summer are perfect opportunities for getting your kids involved in arts and crafts.

Free, Printable Flag Day Coloring Pages – Karen Barnes

The free, printable Flag Day coloring pages can be used in conjunction with the proclamation President Wilson established in 1916 as a lesson in history.

How to Make a Felt American Flag Garland – Becca Swanson

Are you in the mood for Americana? Decorate your home, parade float or lawn chair with this crafty American flag banner, made from felt.

Easy Flag Day Craft for Kids – Donna Daniels

Flag Day is celebrated the first week of June, and it is a time when we should honor our United States of America flag. You can make a star mobile to help you celebrate Flag Day.

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Happy Flag Day on June 14^th!

Image/s:  

1917 American Flag Day Poster

Public Domain/Wikipedia Commons

Related Items:

Wave of Glory - a Poetic Manner on the American Banner – Hands upon our hearts, we stand, As you fly, so bold and grand, What a lovely sight, on view, America's red, white and blue.

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