07/04/2026
AMERICA'S 250 BIRTHDAY from Robyn Prud'homme-Bauer Clarkdale Mayor
Hello Clarkdale! Welcome to Clarkdale’s Celebration of the America’s Birthday!
Today, as we celebrate America’s 250th Birthday, we honor a nation founded on a bold
and enduring idea: that government derives its power from the people. Built upon the
principles of the Declaration of Independence and secured by the Constitution, the
United States remains an ongoing experiment in self-government—one dedicated to the
pursuit of liberty, equality, opportunity, and justice.
This 250th Birthday gives us an opportunity not only to celebrate our achievements, but
also to reflect on the challenges we have faced and continue to overcome. It is a time to
honor the sacrifices of those who came before us, celebrate the strength of our
communities – like our Clarkdale, and remember that the work of building a more perfect
Union is never complete.
Since 1776, generation after generation has been called upon to help fulfill the promises
of our founding—promises of freedom, equal rights, and democratic participation for all.
Our nation's story is one of perseverance, civic engagement, and progress. Throughout
history, Americans have stepped forward to strengthen communities, protect democratic
institutions, and expand opportunities for all who will follow.
As President Abraham Lincoln affirmed, our nation is dedicated to preserving a
"government of the people, by the people, for the people." That enduring principle has
inspired generations of Americans to participate in civic life, serve their communities, and
help shape a more just and prosperous future for all.
Our success as a nation depends on informed and engaged people who are willing to
participate, listen to one another, and work together for the common good. As President
Franklin D. Roosevelt observed, “The ultimate rulers of our democracy are not a President
and senators and congressmen and government officials, but the voters of this country.”
And a free society also depends upon character. As President Ronald Reagan reminded
us, “Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction.” His words
underscore that preserving our democracy requires integrity, accountability, and a shared
commitment to the values and institutions that sustain our nation for future generations.
As we commemorate 250 years of American independence, let us remember that our
nation is defined not by perfection, but by perseverance. The American experiment
remains unfinished, calling each of us to renew our dedication to freedom, equality, and
self-government.
The future of our nation lives in our communities - like Clarkdale, in our willingness to
serve, and in our determination to turn our founding promises into lived realities for every
American.
Today, we celebrate our country, the United States of America—its history, its people, and
its enduring ideals. May the promise of our beautiful country continue to shine brightly,
from sea to shining sea, for generations to come.
I thank you for letting speak today and now - let’s have some Clarkdale pancakes!
