I am grateful to take this opportunity to wish the communities, and the citizens and families of New York's 58th Senate District a safe and a meaningful Fourth of July weekend.

With so many challenges facing our local commmunities, our state and our nation at home and abroad -- and always remembering the enormous sacrifices made by America's military around the world to protect the ideal of the United States that we celebrate over the coming days -- I hope that each and every one of us will take a moment to remember the foundations that have helped our nation persevere and prosper throughout the past 250 years and that can still show the way to a strong future!

My very best wishes to all of you and your families, friends and neighbors for a safe, meaningful, memorable and enjoyable kickoff to the season of summer across the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes regions -- celebrating 250 years!

Read more on the history of American independence:  https://www.history.com/topics/holidays/july-4th

From WETM-TV, "Celebrate America's birthday: Fireworks happening in the Twin Tiers" 

From Finger Lakes Daily News, "Steuben County to Host July 4th Reading of Founding Documents"

From The Leader, "Corning to celebrate America 250 July 4 with celebration, fireworks"

From The Evening Tribune, "Hornell Fourth of July parade, fireworks, events schedule"

From The Evening Tribune, "Andover sets July 4th parade, fireworks schedule. Other events planned"

From the observer-review.com, "Celebrating America’s 250th"