The Sunshine Report Celebrating our Independence Karen and Jay celebrate the spirit of independence and honor the unique history of our American republic. “A republic, if you can keep it.” This is the famous quote from Benjamin Franklin as he left the Convention Hall, after the creation of our Constitution in 1787. He had been approached by a group of citizens who had asked him what form of government the delegates had created. He was not only answering the question – but he was also giving a subtle warning that it would be up to all of us – for generations going forward to preserve and protect what had been created in that hall. Now, nearly 250 years later, we continue to carry the torch forward. Celebrating out independence on July 4th and holding dear our unique form of government – an experiment in self-government that has endured all these years and that has created the freest, most prosperous and most successful nation the world has ever known. As we commemorate Independence Day this year, it is crucial to remember the sacrifices made by those who came before us to secure the freedoms we enjoy today. It is a day to honor the perseverance and dedication of generations past who fought for the ideals of democracy and self-governance. While we enjoy our July 4th celebrations with barbecues, fireworks, and family gatherings – Independence Day is also much more than these fun events. It is a special occasion that serves as a poignant reminder of the responsibilities we bear in upholding and protecting the rights and liberties enshrined in our Constitution. In essence, it is an occasion that reminds us of the importance of being true to the admonition of Dr. Franklin – “A republic, if you can keep it.” As such, Independence Day is not just a day of festivities, but a solemn occasion to reflect on the blessings of living in a nation founded on democratic principles. It is a time to recommit ourselves to preserving the legacy of our founders and safeguarding the institutions that define our republic. As we celebrate our independence this year, let us be reminded of the importance of unity, democracy, and the ongoing work needed to ensure a future where freedom and justice prevail for all – and where we hold dear and do all we can to preserve, protect and honor our blessed republic. Thank you, Benjamin Franklin! Read The Report General Lafayette - Helping Freedom Ring! Read More What You Can Learn in NH on Independence Day Read More Positive Profiles of the Week – Virginia Drye – Next Gen NH Historian and More! This week we are delighted to highlight a close friend and true leader for the next generation in New Hampshire. Despite a relatively young age, still in her twenties, Virginia has already accomplished so very much. Running for public office as a candidate for State Representative, serving as Chair of the New Hampshire Young Republicans, working as a reporter and key member of the staff of the Claremont Eagle Times newspaper, doing an internship her New Hampshire Executive Councilor, taking on leadership roles for the Cornish Fair and more – all while pursuing her degree from Liberty University. Yet, one particular example of her work speaks volumes about her character – especially her motivating principles as well as her perseverance and ingenuity in pursuing an objective she really cares about. Here goes: Scattered throughout the state of New Hampshire are numerous historic markers identifying the trail that French General Lafayette took in 1824 and 1825 as part of his farewell tour throughout the state as part of his nation’s farewell tour during those later years of his life. The markers note the historical significance and details of Lafayette’s visit to each town. Interestingly, Virginia found her passion for promoting Lafayette after she met with the founder of the Lafayette Trail, Julien Icher, in 2018. In fact, she became so enthused that she then decided to use her internship with her New Hampshire Executive Councilor Joseph Kenney to take on a project to erect one of those markers on the State House grounds. As it turns out, putting something on the State House grounds is not exactly easy, as multiple branches of government and agencies have oversight of that location. The fact that the marker was a donation to the state from the Lafayette Trail project added an extra layer of complexity. For eighteen months, Virginia persisted, even when one of the department heads told her that it was impossible to get a marker on the State House lawn because of the layers of complications. Some of her tasks included testifying in front of joint committees of the House and the Senate (such as the Facilities and Historical Committees), advocating for them to approve the marker at a specific location on the State House lawn, and approving a contract to bring forward to the Executive Council to accept the donation of the sign. There were other elements noting Lafayette’s visit already on the lawn, including the Liberty Elm, which was a replacement of the tree that Lafayette planted when he was here in New Hampshire, as well as a plaque from the Daughters’ of the American Revolution noting his visit in 1825 to the State House. All these factors made the location where the marker now stands the appropriate place to put it. On May 20th, 2022, on Lafayette Day, Governor Sununu unveiled the new marker and shot off three rounds of the Lyndeborough Lafayette Artillery Cannon in celebration. This unveiling was the first installation on State House grounds in 72 years. This year, during Lafayette Day, Virginia was referred to by Governor Sununu as the “Godmother of Lafayette Day,” noting her passion for Lafayette and New Hampshire. Virginia is also working with the American Friends of Lafayette to help plan the 200th anniversary of Lafayette’s visit next year. Thanks, Virginia for helping keep history alive in New Hampshire! You truly are a leading light in this next wonderful generation! Quote of the Week "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness." - Thomas Jefferson, Declaration of Independence     Jay Lucas | www.JayLucas.us  Share This Email Share This Email Share This Email Jay Lucas | 7 Portwalk Pl | Portsmouth, NH 03801 US Unsubscribe | Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice