“We hold these truths to be self-evident,
That all men are created equal; that they
Are endowed by their Creator with certain
Inalienable Rights; that among these are
Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”

Declaration of Independence, July 4,1776 
 
On the Fourth of July, we celebrate our Independence Day, the birthday and the proudest holiday of our nation.  America has every reason to be proud of its beginning: it was born of the desire and love for freedom, nurtured by faith and courage, and founded on the highest principles and ideals conceivable to man. Richard Henry Lee declared in a resolution presented to Congress: “That these United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and independent states.”  Our nation had already fought wars, civil strife, and economic depressions to emerge rich and resourceful, mighty in the world, and infallible as a nation.

The year before the Declaration of Independence was accepted by Congress, John Adams wrote in a letter to his wife expressing his belief in the importance of Independence Day: “It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty.  It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward evermore.”

So, enjoy America’s greatest celebration feast with family and loved ones flying our perfectly beautiful flag, enjoying a concert of endearing patriotic songs that touch our soul, and the fantastic fireworks lightening up the heavens and lifting our spirit: a constant reminder of God’s gifts of our precious freedoms, the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness for everyone.  On this glorious Independence Day, God grant freedom to all and please bless America!

 
Catholic Daughters Court Patricia 195 held its Installation of Officers and Reception of New Members, on June 8, at 7 p.m. Mass celebrated by Father Bill Damroth at Sacred Heart Church.  A short meeting and reception followed in Gallo Hall of the school.

Catholic Daughters are committed to the CDA motto of Unity and Charity, and amicably working together, the ladies accomplish their goals for the good of the many.  New members are always welcome to join and bring with them new ideas, so, if interested call Helene Kerin at (845) 561-8329.
 
Town of Newburgh, 2022 Music Series at Chadwick Lake Park under the Large Pavilion, 6 to 8 p.m., dates are Thursday, July 14 – The Saints Band; Thursday, July 28 – Rock Slyde Band; Thursday, August 4 – All Too Real Band; Thursday, August 18 – Hurley Mountain Highway Band.  Bring your own lawn chairs!  Town of Newburgh, Chadwick Lake Park, 1702 Route 300, Newburgh.

Mid-Hudson Chapter Adirondack Mountain Club will enjoy an easy four miles Morning Mills-Norrie Brunch Hike on Sunday, July 3.  Leader: Georgette Weir, georgette.weir@gmail.com.  

We will aim to beat the summer heat on this holiday weekend, with a loop hike that includes a two-mile stretch along the Hudson River and two-miles through shady woods.  We’ll stop midway for a brunch break. Bring your own brunch, plus water.  MUST confirm with leader for meeting place and time.

May you always have an angel at your side.