Fun on the 4th - An Explosive Display

AN EXPLOSIVE DISPLAY: FUN ON THE FOURTH The Fourth of July means many things to many people: nice weather, summertime fun with friends and family, and fireworks galore. But most importantly, it's a celebration of America's independence. Here, we take a look at the numbers through the boliday's history. - POWER TO THE PEOPLE***** FLAGGED FINANCES ***** From our declaration as an independent nation to today, America has grown considerably. The good old stars and stripes are the unified symbol of our freedom. So it's no surprise that flags are big business. In the U.S., over $302.7 million worth of banners, fabricated flags, and similar emblem items are shipped each year. The estimated number of Americans comprising the newly independent nation in 1776. 2.5 MILLION 302.7 MILLION However, what may surprise you is that the imports of American flags are upwards of $3.2 million, with $2.8 million coming from U.S. flags made in China. $2.8 MILLION The estimated U.S. population on July 4, 2011. MADE IN CHINA 311.7 MILLION $0.4 MILLION According to the U.S. Census Bureau, while we may have been adversaries in 1776, the United Kingdom is now our sixth-largest trading partner, with over $90 billion changing hands annually. Mexico, on the other hand, is our biggest flag export destination, accounting for $256,407 OF A TOTAL OF $486,026. PATRIOTIC PERISHABLES ****** AN EXPLOSIVE DISPLAY :**** Everyone loves a good fireworks display! But be careful, they can be just as dangerous as they are fun. Looking forward to that delicious Fourth of July cookout? You're not alone. According to Mediamark Research and Intelligence data, over 81 million Americans enjoyed a Fourth of July barbecue in 2010. All those barbecues require plenty of meat to grill. There's a good chance the steak and burgers you're enjoying are from the largest beef-producing states: Every Fourth of July, there are twice as many fires reported than any other day during the year. On the Fourth, fireworks account for an average of 2 out of every 5 fires. 6.8 billion pounds Техas 4.6 billion pounds According to the National Fire Protection Association, a total of 8,800 EMERGENCY ROOM VISITS were due to firework-related injuries-ouch! Nebraska 4.1 billion pounds Kansas SAFE TRAVELS**** For many Americans, a burger and a beer couldn't be a sweeter combination for a holiday cookout, especially on the Fourth of July. However, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration notes that Independence Day is the most dangerous driving day of the year, thanks to many jam-packed rural roads and holiday drinking. Leave the driving to someone else if you've had a few too many. :.. Independence Day is a hallmark of American history. One of the most fun and meaningful holidays for all proud Americans, the Fourth of July will always be a cornerstone of our society. So eat up, have fun, and stay safe this holiday season. UNITED STATES SOURCES: THE U.S. CENSUS BUREAU, NATIONAL FIRE PROTECTION AGENCY, NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC ADMINISTRATION MILITARY V.A. Loan