Founding Fathers and the Fourth of July
To my fellow CCA colleagues-
As many of you may know, I make a point to visit Washington, D.C. at least three times a year. As much as these trips are professional – in meeting with our federal partners, visiting with members of Congress to discuss current issues and educating officials about partnership corrections – they always become personal as well.
Something about this city, our nation’s capitol, always does something to me. The District of Columbia is a hotbed of history. At practically every turn, there’s a monument, a historical marker, or an architectural reminder of days gone by. Just the pulse of the climate lets you know this place is vital and important.
My latest trip to D.C. was just this past week. While there, I could already see signs of the city getting ready for the upcoming Fourth of July holiday. Red, white and blue decorations were beginning to become visible. Crowds are fascinated by the many sights that remind us to pay homage to those Founding Fathers, and many others, who came before us and helped secure the freedom and independence we enjoy today.
Spending time in our nation’s capitol allowed me to reflect on its significance as much as it enabled me to enjoy its diversions and culture. This is home to the Smithsonian Institution, Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial. This is where veterans from World War II, the Korean War and Vietnam are honored for posterity on our National Mall. As much as these landmarks are volumes in D.C.’s incredible story, they, too, are chapters in our great American story as well.
This Fourth of July, I am humbled by all that has happened that has enabled us to be where – and who – we are today. On this holiday weekend, I admit that I will take in some fireworks and enjoy the usual Independence Day fare with all the fixings. I’ll also be spending time with my family and friends. But I am challenging myself to make more of this moment. I’ll be thinking about our past, present and future, but also take a minute to recognize and remember our fellow Americans who have given us the rights we enjoy today.
I’d be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge that we’re now halfway through 2010. I know that we’ve faced some challenges – and opportunities – as a company and industry in recent times. I want to thank you for your diligence, patience and support through them all, as your collective efforts have put the Company in the best position in its history. With each employee's continued dedication and commitment, we will be able to take advantage of the many opportunities that I believe will present themselves as our nation's economy recovers. Together, we will weather the coming months with professionalism, vigilance and optimism, just like our enterprising forefathers did back on July 4, 1776.
Please join me, as we celebrate this holiday, in remembering our fellow Americans who helped with the founding of our Country. And as always, thank you for what you do for CCA each and every day throughout the year.
Damon
Sound Out
M. Lopez at Saguaro :
I know that you are very busy, but thank you, over the past thirteen years that I have been with CCA you are the first President who I've seen take the time to acknowledge and share your thoughts regarding our nations holidays. America's Leader in Partnership Corrections, I remember starting off with CCA making $6.33 an hour at the Eloy Detention Center, I thought this would be a job to get me buy and provide me with a little insurance, how wrong I was. Thirteen years later I am able to be the person standing on the other side of the podium teaching staff our guiding principles, helping them understand the service we provide to our customers and shape the future of CCA. My apologies again because I know that you are busy, but I just felt I needed to share a short story and say thank you. Have a safe and Happy fourth of July.