Debra Noojin

• The Declaration Was Signed Over Several Weeks Although July 4, 1776, is celebrated as Independence Day, most delegates actually signed the Declaration of Independence on August 2, 1776.

• Three Founding Fathers Died on July 4th Thomas Jefferson and John Adams, both key figures in the founding of the United States, died on July 4, 1826 — the 50th anniversary of the Declaration. James Monroe, the fifth president, also died on July 4, in 1831.

• The Liberty Bell Rings on July 4th The Liberty Bell in Philadelphia is traditionally rung on July 4th to celebrate Independence Day, symbolizing freedom and liberty.

• The First Fireworks Display Was in 1777 The first recorded Independence Day fireworks took place in Philadelphia in 1777, one year after the Declaration was adopted.

• July 4th Is the Most Popular Day for Barbecues Americans love to celebrate with food — and July 4th is one of the biggest days for backyard barbecues, picnics, and cookouts.

• Many U.S. Presidents Were Born in July Besides the three who died on July 4th, several presidents including Calvin Coolidge (born July 4, 1872) were born in July, adding to the month's historical significance.

• “The Star-Spangled Banner” Was Inspired by a Battle Near July 4 Francis Scott Key wrote the poem that became the U.S. national anthem after witnessing the bombardment of Fort McHenry in September 1814, close to the patriotic spirit of Independence Day.

Here are some fun ideas to celebrate July 4th:

• Host a Backyard Barbecue or Picnic Gather family and friends for classic American foods like burgers, hot dogs, corn on the cob, and apple pie. Don’t forget the red, white, and blue decorations!

• Watch Fireworks Find a local fireworks show or set off your own (where legal and safe). Bring blankets or lawn chairs and enjoy the colorful night sky.

• Attend a Parade or Community Event Many towns host parades, concerts, or festivals with live music, games, and food vendors. It’s a great way to experience local culture and patriotism.

• Have a Themed Movie Night Watch patriotic movies like Independence Day, National Treasure, or Mr. Smith Goes to Washington.

• Decorate with Red, White & Blue Use flags, balloons, streamers, and tableware in patriotic colors to set a festive mood.

• Play Outdoor Games Organize games like sack races, frisbee, cornhole, or water balloon toss for all ages.

• Create a DIY Craft Make your own flag, patriotic wreath, or fireworks-inspired art with kids or friends.

• Learn and Share History Take some time to read about Independence Day history and share interesting facts with your group.

• Visit a Historical Site or Museum If there’s one nearby, it can be inspiring to connect with America’s history on this special day.

• Volunteer or Give Back Celebrate by helping out in your community — many places have charity events or opportunities to serve.

The Debra Noojin State Farm Insurance office is proud to serve Marshall, Etowah, Blount, DeKalb, and surrounding Alabama areas with Auto Insurance, Home Insurance, Renter’s Insurance, Life Insurance, Business Insurance and Financial Services, with a focus on resident relocations to the Marshall County area. I am your State Farm Insurance Agent for the Guntersville, AL area and your one stop shop for your car insurance and other insurance needs. I love what I do! Give us a call if you are moving to Guntersville, Albertville, Boaz, Arab, New Hope, or the surrounding Marshall or Etowah County areas. Every day means another opportunity to connect with my community and build relationships with my neighbors, so we can work together on the coverage that makes sense for them. I’m passionate about making my customers feel comfortable and confident in their insurance. My team of licensed Insurance Professionals is here to help get you Insurance coverage for your specific needs. We offer checking along with credit-card options. Not only can we help with Auto Insurance, Homeowners Insurance, Boatowners, Life Insurance and Financial Services, but we are also able to assist small business owners with their Commercial lines of Insurance. When is the last time you sat down with a licensed agent and went over your coverage. Let me have the honor today. Call, Click, Text or Stop by the office today for a free Car Insurance, Home Insurance or Life Insurance Quote! We would love the opportunity to meet you and see how we may serve you and your family. ~