Lake County officials gathered Thursday morning to unveil a new America250 monument, commemorating the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary and celebrating the values that have shaped both the United States and Lake County.

The ceremony, held outside the Lake County Historical Museum in Tavares, began with an invocation, the Pledge of Allegiance and remarks from County Commissioner Leslie Campione before the monument was officially unveiled.

“We’re gathered here today to celebrate the 250th anniversary of American independence and to celebrate these enduring ideals of liberty, justice, service and unity, which have shaped our nation from the very beginning,” she says.

Campione emphasized that America’s story has been written through the contributions of everyday citizens.

“America’s story is not just a story of one leader, one person,” she says. “It’s a story of many. It is written through the lives of people who built communities, served their neighbors, protected freedom, raised their families, started businesses, cared for the land and worked to leave something better for generations that followed.”

Campione also highlighted Florida’s role in the nation’s history, pointing to the state’s agricultural roots, tourism industry, aerospace achievements and conservation efforts. She noted that Lake County’s own history dates back to the late 1800s, when settlers were drawn to the area by its lakes, fertile soil and opportunity.

“Through citrus, health care, agriculture, faith, entrepreneurship and hard work, those early residents helped lay the foundation for the Lake County that we know and love today,” she says.

While acknowledging that both the county and the nation have changed over the years, Campione says the values that define the community have remained constant.

“Communities have grown, families have come and gone, industries have evolved and new challenges have emerged,” she says. “But through it all, the same core values remain — freedom, responsibility, service, perseverance and love of community.”

She encouraged residents to view the monument not only as a tribute to the past but also as a reminder that the nation’s story continues to be written.

“As we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary this year and celebrate Independence Day this weekend, I hope this monument encourages residents and visitors alike to pause, reflect and remember that the American story is still being written,” Campione says. “Not only in Washington, D.C., or Tallahassee, but right here in Lake County and in communities like ours all across America.”