Letter: Thank you to all for supporting, celebrating the Fourth

Posted 7/12/18

The Fourth of July to some folks means fireworks, family, reunions, concerts, barbeques, and picnics. Here in Bristol it means all of that and so much more.

In Bristol we celebrate the oldest …

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Letter: Thank you to all for supporting, celebrating the Fourth

Posted

The Fourth of July to some folks means fireworks, family, reunions, concerts, barbeques, and picnics. Here in Bristol it means all of that and so much more.

In Bristol we celebrate the oldest continuous celebration of the Fourth of July. The annual Bristol Fourth of July Celebration began in 1785 when Rev. Henry Wight of the First Congregational Church and a veteran of the Revolutionary War conducted the first Patriotic Exercises.

We have a committee of nearly 150 people who work 365 days each year to prepare for the celebration that leads up to the grand finale, the parade. I am thankful and humbled by all the work of many to continue this tradition.

It was a pleasure to serve alongside my fellow 100 percent volunteer committee members to make this celebration a possibility. I am grateful to Bristol Police, Fire, Rescue and DPW, and Fourth of July Committee sponsors and our generous community members, who work together to bring this amazing celebration together.

Our committee is already planning the 234th celebration and look forward to another successful year. Donations are always welcomed and can be sent to PO Box 561, Bristol, RI 02809 or through our website fourthofjulybristolri.com

God Bless America!

Michele Martins

Ms. Martins is chairman of the Bristol Fourth of July Parade committee.

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