Earlier this month we celebrated our country’s 250th birthday – the Semi quincentennial – on July 4th, marking 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. Commemorated across America, this nationwide milestone featured massive patriotic events, vibrant outdoor concerts, and historic showcases.

Major crowds gathered across the country including Washington, D.C.’s National Mall, Philadelphia’s Independence Hall, and throughout Virginia, particularly Hampton Roads.

Blessed with a sultry summer day, Hampton Roads residents frolicked in our region’s amenities such as the Virginia Beach oceanfront and boardwalk, the Norfolk waterfront and the bayfront communities along the Chesapeake Bay.

More than anything, Americans gathered with family, friends, and neighbors to pause and give thanks for the privilege of celebrating the United States as one Nation under God. As we are reminded in Psalm 33:12, “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord”.

May God bless America !