She doesn’t look a minute over 174. But seriously, folks…

When you consider the many remarkable things that have happened here, that have been made here, and what is yet to come, it fills one with a sense of pride and gratitude just to be a part of this city’s heritage and legacy.

Think about it, when this city was founded the Civil War had not yet taken place; much of the western potion of the United States was not yet part of the Union; Queen Victoria became the first reigning British monarch to travel by train…and so on.

Of course, the rich history of the region goes much further back, to Colonial times and beyond.

Each year we are reminded of the role she played in the great events that led to our nation’s independence as we reenact the raising of the first American flag at Prospect Hill and pay homage to so many founding fathers, mothers, sisters and brothers who played vital roles in the forging of our once fragile republic.

No, 175 isn’t much of a round number, but it’s the kind of number that makes us pause and reflect on just how special this city is.

And it’s not just about history either. She lives and breathes and grows stronger and – yes – more beautiful with each passing year.

She’s no spring chicken, to be sure. But her best days are hardly behind her.