KNIGHT MOVES | Hotter than July!

BY CRAIG KNIGHT

We’re more than halfway through 2024, with July officially starting the third quarter in the business world. This month begins in earnest with the Fourth of July, which is often referred to as Independence Day. America’s independence from the British Empire is commemorated on this federal holiday. It has changed throughout the previous 248 years into a broader expression of pride and patriotism. 

It is a common misconception that the delegates decided to pursue independence on July 2, 1776. The National Archives state that the Continental Congress approved the Declaration of Independence two days later, on July 4, 1776, albeit with significant changes. On July 4, however, only two delegates — secretary Charles Thompson and president John Hancock — signed the agreement. Hancock wrote first, creating the expression “put your John Hancock on ” — which means to sign something with a bold, huge script. 

Delegates finally started signing the paper on August 2, 1776. John Adams predicted that July 2 would be the day for the annual celebration of independence. Adams predicted in a letter to his wife Abigail that the festivities would feature sports, bonfires, parades, and fireworks — many of which are still common Fourth of July traditions today. 

The Summer Olympics in Paris is also noteworthy! I’m excited to watch our men and women compete internationally, especially in sports I love to watch — basketball (where four Las Vegas Aces represent the women’s team), track and field, gymnastics, diving, swimming, and more! Let’s go! 

(Speaking of sports, congratulations to the NBA world champion Boston Celtics NBA World Champions and Finals MVP Jaylen Brown.) 

Several awareness months fall in July, such as: National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, Disability Pride Month, Sarcoma and Bone Cancer Awareness Month, National Ice Cream Month, and National Grilling Month — for just a few examples. 

As we celebrate everything there is to do this month, let’s do it responsibly! Until the next Knight Moves, educate yourself and share the knowledge with others. God bless you!