Mayor Teresa Lee Heitmann
As our nation commemorated the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the City of Naples joined communities across America in honoring this historic milestone through a series of meaningful events that celebrated our nation’s past, recognized those who have served, and inspired future generations.
Our America 250 observance began in May when the City recognized the winners of the America 250 Student Essay Contest during a Naples City Council meeting. Students from schools within the City shared thoughtful reflections on what makes America special, the importance of freedom, the heroes who inspire them, and their hopes for the nation’s next 250 years. Their essays demonstrated a remarkable appreciation for the values and opportunities that define our country and provided a hopeful glimpse into the future of civic engagement.
In June, residents gathered during Tree Fest for a special America 250 tree dedication ceremony. The tree, planted in honor of this historic anniversary, symbolized the enduring strength, resilience, and growth of our nation. Later that month, the City Council honored 100-year-old Royal Harbor resident and retired U.S. Marine Corps Colonel Robert N. Burhans. To preserve Colonel Burhans’ remarkable story for future generations, City staff also produced a commemorative video highlighting his lifetime of service to our nation and the values he represents. Together with the Naples Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution and the Big Cypress Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, the City recognized those who have served our country and safeguarded the freedoms we cherish.
The community’s patriotic spirit was also on full display during Naples’ annual Fourth of July celebration. Families, veterans, civic organizations, residents, and visitors came together for the beloved Independence Day parade and the spectacular fireworks display over the Gulf. As part of the America 250 commemoration, the celebration carried special significance, reminding us of the sacrifices, determination, and ideals that have shaped our nation for two and a half centuries.
That spirit of reflection continued on July 8, when residents gathered on the steps of City Hall for a public reading of the Declaration of Independence organized by the Big Cypress Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Naples joined communities across the country in this nationwide observance as the Declaration was read simultaneously at 6:00 p.m. Eastern Time, commemorating the day the Declaration was first publicly proclaimed in 1776. Hearing those historic passages read aloud alongside fellow Americans from coast to coast created a powerful connection between our nation’s founding and its future, reminding us that the principles of liberty, equality, and self-government remain as relevant today as they were when first declared.
Throughout the year, partnerships with veterans and civic organizations, and community-wide participation helped make America 250 a meaningful and authentic celebration for Naples. More than a series of events, this commemoration provided opportunities for gratitude, reflection, civic pride, and connection across generations.
To preserve these memories, City staff is producing a commemorative video highlighting Naples’ America 250 celebrations throughout the year. The video will capture the many events, community partnerships, and moments of reflection that brought residents together in honor of our nation’s 250th anniversary, ensuring this historic chapter in our City’s history can be remembered and shared for years to come.
As we look back on these celebrations, we are reminded that America’s story continues to be written by citizens who value freedom, service, opportunity, and community. It was an honor for Naples to join communities across the nation in recognizing this extraordinary anniversary and reflecting on the enduring ideals that unite us as Americans.
God Bless the City of Naples, and God Bless America.
Teresa Lee Heitmann, Mayor
