A Day at the Indianapolis Zoo

As we approach the Fourth of July weekend, we are reminded how fortunate we are to celebrate our country and our freedom. The day is also synonymous with fireworks and quality time with friends and family. 239 years ago, John Adams wrote a letter to his wife outlining his idea of Independence Day:

“I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated as that day of deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever more.”

Though the actual signing of the Declaration of Independence was two days after the letter had predicted, John Adams was spot on about how to commemorate the event. We at FinishMaster especially see the value in coming together as a family and as Americans to celebrate our freedom.

Since the Fourth is a National holiday, typically, time is spent with close friends and family. In an effort to come together and live out our Core Values, the FinishMaster Home Office team visited the Indianapolis Zoo on June 27th.  Team members from all departments had the opportunity to bring their family and friends to meet co-workers and enjoy time together out of the office. Everyone met at the Hix Institute for lunch and afterwards walked around to see all the exhibits at the Zoo. Some of the highlights included the new Orangutan exhibit, lively Elephants, not-so-lively koalas, and shark petting. Though it was windy and chilly early on, the weather improved and it turned into a beautiful day.



As we look forward to the events for this coming weekend, we can focus on what brings us together and enjoy the company of our loved ones. Fortunately, the forecast looks good for Saturday which should allow plenty of opportunity for quality time, celebration, and fireworks.

Here are a few facts about fireworks as you prepare to watch them!

• The earliest recorded documentation of fireworks dates back to 7th century China, but some think they were invented more than 2000 years ago!
• Italy was the first country to truly master and experiment with fireworks in Europe. They were the first to use shells for firecrackers to be loaded into cannons and shot into the air.
• Fireworks used to be only orange and white. In the Middle Ages new colors were achieved by adding different chemicals. The most difficult color to create is blue, done by adding copper oxidizers.
• The first fireworks recorded in America were set off by an Englishman, Captain John Smith, famous in the story of Pocahontas.
• In 1777, the Virginia Gazette reported fireworks illuminating the sky. Quite possibly the first Fourth celebrated started the tradition.
• The record for the most firework rockets launched in 30 seconds is 125,801.
• The first week of July is typically one of the busiest American travel periods of the year, as many people utilize the holiday for extended vacation trips.

We hope everyone has a great, and more importantly, safe holiday weekend.