Independence Day 2016

First and foremost, on behalf of our entire 58th Senate District, I'm proud to express our collective appreciation, gratitude and respect to America's veterans, and to all of our active servicemen and servicewomen and their families.  Thank you for your service, and your sacrifices.  

And thank you again to this year's inductee (and all of our past inductees) into the New York State Senate Veterans' Hall of Fame: P. Earle Gleason of Yates County.

To all of the residents and families of the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes regions, my best wishes for a safe, meaningful and enjoyable 4th of July weekend celebration.

Here's a reminder of the foundation of this proud and patriotic national observance: America's Declaration of Independence

Visit the state's 4th of July online exhibit tracing the central role played by New York during the Revolutionary War.

Some safety reminders and tips from the American Red Cross, and "How to properly display, fly the American Flag"

And for information on local July 4th weekend fireworks and others celebrations, see:

WETM-TV, "Where to Watch 4th of July Fireworks"

WENY-TV, "Here Is Where You Can See Local Fourth of July Fireworks"

observer-review.com, "Fireworks will highlight holiday celebrations"

Ithaca Journal, "A festive Fourth of July for the region" and "Free bus service to Ithaca fireworks"

Don't forget "Military Appreciation Day" at Watkins Glen International this Sunday, July 3, as part of this weekend's Sahlen's Six Hours of the Glen -- a great salute and show of respect on the part of The Glen and Kaplan University.

WGI President Michael Printup said, “Watkins Glen International is proud to once again pay tribute to those who serve and those who have served the United States of America. We are all very grateful to these men and women for their sacrifices that they make, and we’re honored to have them as our guests for the Sahlen’s Six Hours of The Glen.”