Happy Independence Day

Today is July 4 — Independence day — recognition of the day that the Continental Congress formally adopted the Declaration of Independence that had been written largely by Thomas Jefferson. The Declaration of Independence was first read publicly by Colonel John Nixon on July 8, 1776. When I was in Philadelphia years ago, I stood on the very spot. It was quite thrilling. The 56 signers of the Declaration of Independence did not sign at the same time, nor did they sign on July 4, 1776. The official signing event occurred on August 2, 1776, when 50 men signed it. John Hancock was the only person to actually sign the Declaration of Independence on July 4. ^{source: PurpleTrail.com}

Autodesk employees in the United States have today off to celebrate the founding of our country. So for those of you working with us on the Autodesk Forge, fear not, as a global company with employees all over the world, there are plenty of employees toiling away, but for now, we Americans will enjoy the day. I live in the city of Alameda that boasts the longest 4^th of July Parade in the United States. Here are some pictures from last year:

The parade is a great reflection of Americana, but as someone born and raised in New Orleans and Mardi Gras, I am disappointed that no one throws beads nor doubloons.

A parade is alive in the lab.