New Stories
From ‘Hail Columbia’ to ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’
Did you know that it took 117 years for “The Star-Spangled Banner” to become the United States national anthem? Before 1931, several patriotic songs were used at official functions without official designation. One of the first was “Hail Columbia” which was written for George Washington’s 1789 inauguration. Composed by German immigrant Philip Phile, lyrics were… Continue reading.
Celebrate safely
By Julie Young Although fireworks displays are a traditional part of our Independence Day celebrations, nearly 15,000 people are treated in emergency rooms for fireworks-related injuries each year. While some accidents are the result of amateurs attempting to launch professional-grade explosives, others are caused by legal fireworks that stay on the ground and can be… Continue reading.
What’s in a name?
What do the terms semiquincentennial, bisesquicentennial, sestercentennial, and quarter millennium have in common? They are all very long words used to describe a very big anniversary. Why are there so many names for America’s 250th birthday? Mainly because it’s such a rare achievement that it lacks a simple, easy-to-pronounce English word for it. As a… Continue reading.
A reflection of the community
The spring and summer months are prime time for electric cooperative Annual Meetings and member appreciation events. Due to budget constraints or reduced interest, some co-ops have shifted to virtual meetings. However, many still offer in-person events. Annual Meetings are typically a place to exercise Cooperative Principle #2: Democratic Member Control. Unlike for-profit electric companies,… Continue reading.
