No doubt wanting to avoid a repeat of 2023, when a downpour of Biblical proportions nearly swept the performing elementary school choristers into the storm drains, organizers of the Flag Day observance held last Friday, June 14 quickly hoisted the grand flag on the Town Common before taking shelter from the variable cloudiness in the Mt. Carmel School auditorium.

The festivities continued with the usual introductions. Speaking for the Council, Chairman Nathan Calouro spoke to the value of the flag using the gold standard as a metaphor.

“The dollar was based on gold all the way up through approximately 1938,” he said. “It’s no longer based on gold — it’s based on belief…It’s believing that the money in our hand has value, because it does. The Flag represents the belief….believing in what we have and being thankful to our veterans. My colleagues and I are so fortunate to represent to Town of Bristol, and we all wish you a happy Fourth of July.”

Camille Teixeira, General Chairman of the Fourth of July Committee, introduced Rick and Patti Baccus, Chief Marshals of the 2024 Celebration.

“It is truly my honor, as one of the Chief Marshals, to speak with you on this flag day ceremony, the day we officially kick off the 239th Celebration,” said Patti. “Our flag is so important that its history tells the story of America itself. It represents the freedom, dignity and true meaning of being an American. It is a symbol of freedom for which we as Americans recite the pledge of allegiance, an allegiance that we as Americans should always cherish.”

For his part, co-Chief Marshal Rick Baccus delivered a brief history lesson while acknowledging the Veterans in the audience. “Back in 1775 the Second Continental Congress authorized the raising of a continental army, and they appointed a Virginia gentleman, George Washington, as Commander-In-Chief,” said Rick. Eight years later, in 1773, he was named General of the Army.”

“To my fellow Army veterans, I salute all of you for joining me and serving our country's oldest service. And thank you for your service.”

Fourth festivities take over the Town
Elsewhere in town, Fourth of July festivities officially got into full swing, as Bristol now excitedly counts down the days to the annual parade and historic celebration. This past week and weekend featured the Orange Crate Derby, the Vintage Baseball game, and the Pickle Ball Tournament.

The concert series starts Friday, and (if you can believe it) it’s already less than two weeks to Parade Day.