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USO Canteen FReeper Style ~ Camp Run-A-Muck ~ WooHoo! ~ JULY 4, 2003
My "voices", "kitty-katz", Radix, & LindaSOG

Posted on 07/04/2003 4:03:00 AM PDT by tomkow6

 
For the freedom you enjoyed yesterday...
Thank the Veterans who served in
The United States Armed Forces.
 
 
Looking forward to tomorrow's freedom?
Support The United States Armed Forces Today!
 

 

 

We suspend our (my) usual craziness at Camp-Run-Muk today!

For for the very First Time, ALL my "voices" are in agreement!!

 

Today is the birthday of OUR great nation!

It's time we get the word out that patriotism is NOT a sin, and the Fourth of July has more to it than beer, picnics, and baseball games.

The Fourth of July celebration is the main summer festival. It is a time when most families get together (other than Christmas) because the kids are out of school, and for most the weather is nice.  The Fourth of July was the date that our forefathers signed the Declaration of Independence  by the Continental Congress in Philadelphia in 1776.

Americans just celebrated this event for centuries on their own.  But in 1941, Congress finally established the Fourth of July (Independence Day) as a legal holiday.

Now, many have said that the Congress actually approved it on July 2, or August 2, the date they really did sign the document. So why the 4th?  That was the day the final draft of the Declaration was finished for the August 2nd signing.  Confused?  They approved the entire idea on July 2, with a rough outline.  But on July 4 they actually had their finished drafted after a lot of discussion and ratified it.  And it takes a while for everyone to get it signed (remember we didn't have fax machine then!), so that was done on August 2.

It was John Adams who wrote his wife and said that the event should be celebrated with pomp and circumstance, parades, shows, games and other stuff.  Was he ahead of his time?  What he described is the Fourth of July Celebration as we know it today.



The first official 4th of July party was in 1777 ( a year later) in Philadelphia.  Warships along the docks fired a 13-gun salute in honor of the 13 states.  The soldiers who were in the area, paraded through the streets.  

By 1788, the 4th of July celebration also commemorated the U.S. Constitution as well, which was recently approved by 10 out of the 13 states.  That year was the first 4th of July parade, with horse-drawn floats, one of which was a huge eagle carrying the Justices of the US Supreme Court.

In 1790, the nation's capitol moved from Philadelphia to Washington, D.C.  President Thomas Jefferson celebrated the 4th of July by opening the White House to guests.  This custom continued under other presidents as well, until the British burnt the White House in 1814.

Another memorable 4th of July was one held in 1865 on a battlefield at Gettysburg;  at the end of the Civil War with a procession of black salves parading through the streets of Richmond, Virginia in 1866;  and a Bi-centennial celebration in New York City on July 4, 1976.

The Fourth of July today is a day most Americans stop to celebrate their freedom, appreciate their country, pay respect to those that died to protect us and fly the flag or display it's red, white and blue colors in any fashion they choose.  The Fourth of July usually a combination of our other patriotic holidays:  Memorial Day, Flag Day, Veteran's Day rolled into one.  Although some Americans also celebrate those separately from The Fourth of July.

The Fourth of July was extremely popular in the early 1900's and became more  popular at the end of each war.  It became more of a family or church picnic time in the 1950's.  Then the 1960's came and the Vietnam Conflict caused such a division in this country that many just did not feel like celebrating.  And then around the 1980's, for some reason America went through this phase of civil liberties, affirmative action and so with the removal of The Pledge of Allegiance out of the schools, in some cases so went the flag from the schools.  And there was this stigma created by a small group that it was simply uncool to show patriotism.  Why I am not sure.

But with the Bi-Centennial,  and the Statue of Liberty rennovation celebrations, patriotism has slowly come back into the hearts of the American people.  

However, the terrorism attack on the United States on September 11, 2001 was like a shot in Uncle Sam's arm.  Suddenly, we were all one nation and we were all "proud to be an American" and nothing was going to stop us from showing it. Flags sold out in stores within days after 9-11-2001. Patriotic clothing, knick knacks, jewelry, could not be made fast enough.

But the Fourth of July hasn't always been considered a patriotic time in some areas of the United States.  There are *some* African Americans who celebrate "Juneteenth" on June 19, the day in 1865 when the news that the slaves had been freed finally reached Galveston, Texas by ship because they feel that the celebration of freedom on July 4 is for "white American's" only and not theirs to share.

And some very intense women's groups use this day to point out that "All men are created equal" eliminates half the country's population = females!  

And in some native American indian tribes, they celebrate with pow wows and feasts to pay respect to their own ancestors rather than our nation's forefathers.

For some people the Fourth of July is a day of whimsy. In Maine on July 3rd it is customary for pulling pranks like stealing outhouses or removing porch steps.  

But most people celebrate the 4th with family picnics, church gatherings, community parades and fireworks displays at night. 
Some states have banned all fireworks for public use.
Other states have not.  Whatever state you live in, please be careful when dealing with fireworks.  

It can also be a terrible time for pets who have a hard time dealing with the noise of firecrackers.

Thomas Jefferson, who wrote the Declaration of Independence died on July 4, 1826  at noon in his home in Virginia.  The day he died was the 50th anniversary of the document's signing.

Ironically, John Adams of Massachusetts who supported the Declaration of Independence and is also the father of President John Quincy Adams died just a few hours later on the same day, July 4, 1826.

Fireworks

The term fireworks didn't come about until 1777 when the first Fourth of July celebration took place.  Before that, they were simply called "rockets."  Because they were more visual than anything, they called them "fireworks."   Later on, the ones that were made for noise (and not beauty) were called "fire crackers."  And in 1880  "sparklers" were created.  What child hasn't held a sparkler in their hand?  If not, those are long thin wands that spit out bursts of sparks in waterfall-style patterns.

In the Middle Ages, they had "firemasters" who designed and put on elaborate fireworks displays for military victories, religious festivals and crowning of kings and queens.  Because this became so popular, by the 1700's they needed help, and so the assistants were known as "wild men" or "green men" because they wore caps made of green leaves.

They were much like jesters, flitting among the crowds telling stories, jokes and warning people to stand back.  Then they would set off the fireworks with lighted sticks called "fire clubs."  This was a dangerous job and many "green men" were injured or killed when a firecracker mis-fired or didn't shoot high enough in the air to be safe.

When fireworks came to America they were used for both domestic and public celebrations.  By 1870, American companies were marketing fireworks for private use by renaming them Roman Candles, Flying Dragons, Sun Wheels and Prismatic Fountains.  And the popularity of the "at home in your backyard" fireworks fun meant many people didn't have to deal with huge crowds to enjoy them.  But, it meant they had to pay for them, whereas the public displays were usually paid for by the town and free to view.  Fireworks are NOT legal in my state and, although they CAN be purchased in neighboring states, IMHO they are not cheap!

Only 35 states as of right now have fireworks legal for the public to use.  The other 15 states make it illegal totally. And in the case of *some* states, they allow only certain kinds of fireworks to be legal.  All states since 1966 have banned Cherry Bombs and other large firecrackers due to the large number of injuries.

Although sold in America, most of them are made in China, Japan, South Korea and Taiwan.

I (& my "voices") think we need alot of FLAGS!

PARADES!

DC0145M

AND our NATIONAL ANTHEM:

Compliments of Mr. Radix!

The "Other" Stanzas:

On the shore dimly seen throughout the mists of the deep
Where the foe's haughty host in dread silence reposes 
What is that which the breeze o'er the towering steep
As it fitfully blows, half conceals, half discloses?
Now it catches the gleam of the morning's first beam 
In full glory reflected now shines on the stream. 
`Tis the Star-Spangled Banner,
Oh long may it wave
O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave

And where is that band who so hauntingly swore
That the havoc of war and the battle's confusion
A home and country, shall leave us no more?
Their blood was washed out their foul foot steps pollution
No refuge could save the hireling and slave
From the terror of flight or the gloom of the grave.
And the Star-Spangled Banner in triumph doth wave
O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave.

Oh thus be it e'er when free men shall stand
Between their lov'd homes and war's desolation!
Blest with vict'ry and peace, may the heav'n rescued land 
Praise the Pow'r that has made and presrv'd us a nation
And conquer we must when our cause is just
And this be our motto: "In God is our trust."
And the Star-Spangled Banner in triumph shall wave
O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave.

OK, me & my "voices" will get off the soapbox now....

I LOVE this country, no matter WHAT party is in control.

This is MY country, the USA!

 

WARNING! 

Pancakes are BANNED from CAMP!

Killer on duty!

My "kitty katz" have been authorized to use DEADLY FORCE to enforce this rule!

hehehehehehhe!

NO PANCAKES!

Time for the  Picnic to begin!

Happy Birthday, AMERICA!

 


TOPICS: Culture/Society; Miscellaneous; Political Humor/Cartoons
KEYWORDS: michaeldobbs
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To: Kathy in Alaska
Hey there Kathy, nice to see you. Thank you!
I love all these graphics everyone posts on here. It is fun to see what everyone finds to post to the troops and each other.
Love your basket !

What a great day listening to this music and being able to be here.

I am stuffed from Bar BQ .My jeans are strangling me. LMAO
You did NOT hear that Troops. I will deny it. I will . I will !

Wild Thing

101 posted on 07/04/2003 2:53:20 PM PDT by Wild Thing (Support our Troops and the IDF or get out of the way ! The Troops ROCK !!!!)
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To: bentfeather
Hiya ms feather!! I just got home from some of the 4th festivities. IT'S HOT OUTSIDE!! I like rain storms, with the sun following. It's in the 70s, bright bright sunshine, and downright beautiful.


102 posted on 07/04/2003 2:54:58 PM PDT by Kathy in Alaska (God Bless America and Our Military Who Protect Her)
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To: SevenofNine
UK is oppose to Death penality YEAH RIGHT UK shut up we like you don't make me go Smackdown on you TONY

I agree with you Seven!

WELL SAID !

Wild Thing

103 posted on 07/04/2003 2:56:09 PM PDT by Wild Thing (Support our Troops and the IDF or get out of the way ! The Troops ROCK !!!!)
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To: Aeronaut
Hello Aeronaut!! Thank you for the flyover!! Have a Happy and safe Fourth Of July!!
104 posted on 07/04/2003 3:10:31 PM PDT by MoJo2001 (Happy Birthday America!! God Bless Our Troops!)
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To: larryjohnson
Have a happy and safe Fourth of July!!
105 posted on 07/04/2003 3:10:57 PM PDT by MoJo2001 (Happy Birthday America!! God Bless Our Troops!)
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To: Wild Thing
LMAO about the pants too tight. I just got back from celebrating, but I'm stuffed from a pancake breakfast. I got there a little late to a line that went on and on. I had to stop at the store for boysenberry syrup (I don't do maple), put some in little tupperware cup thingies, and double bag in baggies. All the fixins were donated, so all proceeds went to the Salvation Army, who were doing the cooking. Anyway, I stood in line for about 40 minutes and finally got to eat about 11a. It was worth the wait.

As far as graphics go, you are sure right about all the neat things everyone posts. You have been finding some really good ones. Keep it up.


106 posted on 07/04/2003 3:11:17 PM PDT by Kathy in Alaska (God Bless America and Our Military Who Protect Her)
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To: 68-69TonkinGulfYachtClub
I hope you are having a Happy Fourth Of July! Did you have fun last night? I hope so! Don't work too hard!
107 posted on 07/04/2003 3:11:35 PM PDT by MoJo2001 (Happy Birthday America!! God Bless Our Troops!)
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To: RaceBannon
Have a great Independence Day, Race! *HUGS*
108 posted on 07/04/2003 3:12:09 PM PDT by MoJo2001 (Happy Birthday America!! God Bless Our Troops!)
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To: BeforeISleep
Happy 4th of July to you and yours!
109 posted on 07/04/2003 3:12:29 PM PDT by MoJo2001 (Happy Birthday America!! God Bless Our Troops!)
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To: TexasCowboy
It is always wonderful to see you, COB1. *HUGS* Have a wonderful Independence Day! *HUGS* (The hubby sure is homesick for Texas today. Supposedly Texans know how to celebrate the Fourth better than anyone. LOL!)
110 posted on 07/04/2003 3:13:34 PM PDT by MoJo2001 (Happy Birthday America!! God Bless Our Troops!)
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To: Pippin
Absolutely beautiful, Pippin. Thank you for posting it for all of us! *HUGS* Have a wonderful and safe Independence Day!
111 posted on 07/04/2003 3:14:42 PM PDT by MoJo2001 (Happy Birthday America!! God Bless Our Troops!)
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To: LaDivaLoca
Happy 4th LaDivaLoca, thank you for the ping and the wonderful post you did.


112 posted on 07/04/2003 3:15:32 PM PDT by Wild Thing (Support our Troops and the IDF or get out of the way ! The Troops ROCK !!!!)
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To: Kathy in Alaska
Hi Ma! How are you today? The boys really enjoyed your card that you sent. Thank you so much! Thank you for all you do for the troops!! *HUGS* God Bless You, Ma! I know I'm always messing with you, but you are such a grand Lady that you always take it in stride. Thank you! Have a wonderful 4th of July!
113 posted on 07/04/2003 3:16:02 PM PDT by MoJo2001 (Happy Birthday America!! God Bless Our Troops!)
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To: Valin
Thank you for posting the history for us today. Have a wonderful and safe Fourth Of July. *HUGS*
114 posted on 07/04/2003 3:16:43 PM PDT by MoJo2001 (Happy Birthday America!! God Bless Our Troops!)
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To: Wild Thing
Good evening, Wild Thing! Thank you so much for your dedication and hard work on behalf of our troops! Your graphics, wit, and humor really make the Canteen even better. It just wouldn't be the same. Thank you and have a safe Fourth Of July!
115 posted on 07/04/2003 3:17:51 PM PDT by MoJo2001 (Happy Birthday America!! God Bless Our Troops!)
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To: LindaSOG
Have a wonderful and safe Fourth Of July! You are looking absolutely festive Goddess. Woohoo!!
116 posted on 07/04/2003 3:18:27 PM PDT by MoJo2001 (Happy Birthday America!! God Bless Our Troops!)
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To: tomkow6
Canteen Galz Bar B Q !

Good one Tomkow6 !

Wild Thing

117 posted on 07/04/2003 3:21:05 PM PDT by Wild Thing (Support our Troops and the IDF or get out of the way ! The Troops ROCK !!!!)
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To: All
Be back later! Gotta jet now for the festivities! Everyone stay safe, have fun, and try to sing the National Anthem properly. It will please MoJo so much. Remember to click the link to the music to follow the words. You've got a few hours before it gets dark on the East Coast. Learn it! Then sing it loudly and proudly!
118 posted on 07/04/2003 3:25:17 PM PDT by MoJo2001 (Happy Birthday America!! God Bless Our Troops!)
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To: MoJo2001
Happy 4th Of July to you and yours too
119 posted on 07/04/2003 3:26:22 PM PDT by firewalk
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To: Kathy in Alaska
( whispering) Totally cool about the pancakes you did. I am whispering since it is not a Pancake day. LOL

( looking from left to right for Radix and Tomkow , the TAG brothers ) ha ha

Wild Thing

120 posted on 07/04/2003 3:26:36 PM PDT by Wild Thing (Support our Troops and the IDF or get out of the way ! The Troops ROCK !!!!)
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