Costco Wholesale Corp. reported that net sales for the five-week retail month of June rose 8.0% from a year earlier to $26.44 billion, signaling renewed momentum after a modest slowdown earlier in the year. Companywide comparable sales increased 5.8%, or 6.2% when adjusted for gasoline prices and foreign-exchange fluctuations.

Growth was broad-based: U.S. comparable sales advanced 4.7%, Canada gained 6.7%, and other international markets jumped 10.9%. Online demand remained robust, with e-commerce revenue climbing 11.5% year on year.

For the first 44 weeks of the fiscal year, net sales totalled $227.46 billion, up 8.0% from the same period in 2024. Costco now operates 907 warehouses worldwide, giving the retailer a platform to capitalise on continued strength in membership traffic and discretionary categories such as jewellery and gift cards.

Costco Wholesale is urging its 128 million members to check recent purchases after the retailer posted recall notices covering nearly a dozen products, ranging from automobile tires to household appliances and food. The company said customers should stop using the affected items immediately and follow manufacturer instructions for repairs, replacement or refunds.

Safety concerns vary by product. Bridgestone’s Blizzak 6 replacement tires in size 235/40R19 lack a required Department of Transportation certification mark, while Michelin’s Agilis CrossClimate tires in size 185/60R15C fail a federal endurance standard, raising crash-risk worries. Midea and Danby U-shaped window air-conditioners—part of a 1.7-million-unit U.S. recall—can accumulate water and foster mold. Anker’s Model A1257 and A1263 lithium-ion power banks, more than 1 million of which have been sold, may overheat or ignite.

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Most large U.S. retailers and restaurant chains will operate on Independence Day, giving consumers ample last-minute shopping and dining options. Target, Walmart, Home Depot and Lowe’s plan to keep regular hours, while Sam’s Club will shut two to four hours earlier than usual depending on membership tier. Major grocery banners including Kroger-owned stores, Publix, Aldi, Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, Food Lion and Wegmans also intend to open, though several warn that local hours may be shortened.

Costco will be the notable exclusion: the membership warehouse club confirms all U.S. locations are closed on Friday. In the restaurant sector, McDonald’s, Starbucks, Dunkin’ and Chick-fil-A expect to serve customers, and most Subway outlets are likely to open at franchise discretion; Chipotle will close company-owned stores at 3 p.m. Banks, post offices and U.S. equity markets are closed for the federal holiday.

Travel volumes are set to be heavy. AAA projects a record 72.2 million Americans will take trips of at least 50 miles between 28 June and 6 July, up about 10% from the pre-pandemic 2019 period. AAA expects 61.6 million to travel by car and 5.8 million by air, advising motorists to check vehicles before setting out.

Costco Wholesale plans to open its first stand-alone gas station in Mission Viejo, California, roughly two miles from the company’s existing warehouse in the suburb south of Los Angeles. The retailer already operates fuel pumps adjacent to most of its warehouses, but the new out-parcel site marks the first time Costco will dispense gasoline without an accompanying store, part of a broader effort to ease congestion and improve convenience for members.

Read more

The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) collaborated with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in an immigration raid at a Costco in Pacoima, California. During the operation, LAPD arrested local journalist Anthony Orendorff for allegedly attempting to impede federal officers. The arrest has sparked demands from Democrats and local activists for Orendorff's release and criticism of LAPD's cooperation with federal immigration agencies. Separately, in Pasadena, California, a federal agent drew his service weapon on an anti-ICE protester who was attempting to photograph the agent's license plate, leading to calls for the agent's dismissal. These incidents have intensified tensions surrounding federal immigration enforcement and local law enforcement collaboration in the Los Angeles area.

Costco Wholesale Corp. is set to open its first stand-alone gas station in Mission Viejo, California, a suburb of Los Angeles, located about two miles from an existing warehouse. This move marks a departure from the typical gas stations attached to Costco warehouses. President and CEO Ron Vachris noted that the company has extended gas station hours across North America during the quarter to improve convenience for members.

Additionally, Costco is enhancing its membership benefits by reviving an exclusive shopping window perk for Executive members nationwide starting June 30. The company is also expanding delivery options for customers through Instacart. These developments come amid competitive pricing moves by Walmart's Sam's Club and ongoing changes in the retail grocery sector.

Costco Wholesale Corp. plans to open its first stand-alone gas station, breaking from its traditional model of pairing fuel pumps with retail warehouses. The new facility will be located in California roughly two miles from the nearest Costco warehouse, offering members fuel without the adjacent food court or store access typically found at the retailer’s sites.

The move follows Costco’s decision earlier this year to extend the operating hours of several warehouse-based gas stations to 10 p.m., a change aimed at improving convenience for members. Establishing a separate fuel outlet suggests the company is exploring additional ways to expand its gasoline business and reach customers beyond its immediate warehouse footprint.

Costco Wholesale Corporation announced new benefits for its Executive Membership tier, which costs $130 annually compared to the baseline $65 fee. Starting June 30, Executive Members will have early access to shop at some Costco warehouse locations, allowing them to enter stores 30 minutes to an hour before the general public and Gold Star members. This perk will be available at various locations, including Florida stores, and will apply to over 47% of Costco members. In addition to early shopping hours, Costco plans to offer a $10 monthly delivery credit for premium members.

Separately, Costco is testing a new standalone gas station exclusively for its members, with the first location opening in California by spring, and more to follow. The company is also expanding near its Issaquah headquarters. These initiatives aim to enhance the value of Costco's higher-tier memberships and improve the shopping experience for its most loyal customers.

A Santa Rosa, California, shopper has sued Costco Wholesale for more than $14 million, claiming a heavy liquor-cabinet display fell on her at the warehouse club’s store on March 22 and caused lasting injuries. The civil complaint was filed in Sonoma County Superior Court and seeks compensatory damages for medical expenses, lost earnings and pain and suffering.

Plaintiff Sadie Novotny alleges the unsecured cabinet struck her head and body, resulting in a traumatic brain injury and other “multiple, permanent and severe” harms. The lawsuit contends Costco failed to properly secure the display or warn customers of the hazard and has refused to release surveillance video of the incident.

Costco Wholesale Corporation is addressing multiple operational challenges and growth opportunities as it expands its footprint and works to improve customer experience. The company has recently acquired two vacant locations formerly occupied by Bed Bath & Beyond and Regal Cinemas in Orange County, California, signaling a strategic move to grow its presence in that region. During its latest earnings call, CEO Ron Vachris highlighted efforts to manage overcrowding issues in stores, aiming to enhance shopping conditions for its U.S. membership base. Additionally, Costco is managing recalls affecting widely consumed items across a large geographic area, which has raised safety concerns among customers. Despite these challenges, the company sees potential for sales growth driven by improved member satisfaction.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has clarified that grocery store and club membership cards, including Costco cards, are not accepted as valid identification for airport security checkpoints. The TSA emphasized that these cards cannot substitute for a Real ID and warned that attempting to use them could result in travel delays and complications. The agency reiterated this message across multiple communications to dispel rumors suggesting otherwise.

Costco Wholesale Corporation is planning significant expansion in 2025, with the company announcing the opening of 27 new locations this year, bringing it closer to a total of 1,000 stores. The CEO has hinted at upcoming changes aimed at benefiting members, including strategies to protect them from the impact of tariffs, particularly on products like bananas. Additionally, Costco continues to offer competitive pricing on various food items compared to other grocery stores. The company’s stock has experienced multiple expansion, reflecting investor confidence amid its growth and member-focused initiatives.

The Nintendo Switch 2 console, bundled with the game Mario Kart World and including the Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) Expansion Pack, has been restocked at multiple major retailers including Costco, Target, and Walmart. The bundle is available for purchase by Costco members and is priced at $499.99 at Target. This restock includes the console along with games and accessories, providing consumers with several options to acquire the latest Nintendo gaming system and related products.

Costco Wholesale Corporation has confirmed it is testing 'scan-and-go' checkout technology aimed at reducing long lines and improving the shopping experience for its members. The move addresses a top concern among customers regarding checkout speed. This initiative comes as Costco continues its aggressive store expansion while investing in store revamps, supply chain enhancements, and technology upgrades. The testing of this technology aligns Costco with competitors such as Sam's Club and BJ's, which already offer similar features. Costco's CEO has indicated that this potential change will be well received by members.

Costco Wholesale Corporation reported net sales of $20.97 billion for May 2025, marking a 6.8% increase year-over-year. Sales for the first 39 weeks of the year reached $201.02 billion, up 8% compared to the previous year. U.S. comparable sales rose by 4.1%, while Canadian comparable sales increased by 3.3%.

Excluding gas and foreign exchange effects, comparable sales grew 6% overall, with 5.5% growth in the U.S. and 8.4% internationally. E-commerce sales in the U.S. were up 11.6%. Despite these gains, Costco’s sales growth has slowed for the fifth consecutive month, with core comparable sales rising 6% in May, slightly below the 6.2% consensus expectation according to Wells Fargo. Loop Capital maintained a Buy rating on Costco, raising its price target to $1,170 from $1,110, citing international comparable sales outperformance, fading foreign exchange headwinds, and market share gains, although near-term margin pressure remains a concern.

Costco Wholesale Corporation has implemented several changes to its gas stations, including extended operating hours and the opening of new locations earlier this year. These adjustments, combined with recent reductions in commodity costs, have enabled Costco to lower prices on key staples such as eggs and butter. The company’s CFO also stated that Costco is maintaining prices on certain tariff-impacted items despite ongoing trade tensions. Additionally, lower petrol prices have contributed to a surge in Costco's profits. The retailer is currently testing a significant change to its checkout process, addressing customer concerns about this aspect of the shopping experience.

Costco Wholesale Corp. reported better-than-expected earnings and sales for its third quarter, driven by increased memberships, sales growth, and expanded e-commerce activity. The company has strategically limited the impact of tariffs on its business, contributing to a 14% year-to-date rise in its stock price, which recently jumped 3% to $1,040 per share following the earnings announcement. Costco has also enhanced its customer offerings by extending gas station hours and opening new gas stations earlier this year, which has positively impacted its performance. Additionally, the retailer lowered prices on key staples such as eggs and butter in response to recent declines in commodity costs, further supporting its sales growth and member satisfaction.

Costco has taken multiple measures to mitigate the impact of the 145% US tariff on Chinese goods, which came into effect in April 2025. The company pulled forward some goods originally planned for summer and sourced additional locally produced items to reduce tariff exposure in the US market. It also rerouted many goods sourced from countries with high tariff exposure to non-US markets. Despite missing sales expectations, Costco has stated it will not raise prices yet.

Meanwhile, US retail giants are pressuring Chinese suppliers to absorb up to 66% of the tariff costs. Retailers broadly are warning of potential price increases driven by tariffs, with some already raising prices. The situation has sparked pushback from small businesses affected by the tariff policies.

Costco Wholesale Corporation (ticker: COST) has experienced a pattern of shares gapping down following earnings announcements, occurring in 12 of the last 14 quarters. Despite this, the stock has demonstrated strong relative strength compared to the broader market, outperforming the S&P 500 index (SPY) over the past five years alongside Sprouts Farmers Market (SFM). Since 2017, Costco's earnings per share (EPS) have grown from approximately $6 to $17, reflecting an annual growth rate of around 13-15% over the past 15 years. During this period, the company has paid about $43 per share in dividends and maintained a net-debt-free balance sheet. Costco's price-to-earnings (PE) ratio has consistently traded at or above 33 times earnings since early 2020, indicating sustained investor confidence. Market observers have noted the stock's strong technical chart performance and resilience despite periodic earnings-related price declines.

As Memorial Day 2025 approaches, many businesses have chosen to remain open, contributing to one of the largest retail sales and travel weekends of the year. Retailers such as Publix and Costco, along with various shopping centers, are open to accommodate last-minute grocery runs and holiday shopping. In Washington, D.C., the Memorial Day Parade has prompted road closures and no-parking zones to manage event traffic. Following the holiday, the U.S.

Department of Transportation will host The Great American Road Trip Expo on May 29 at its headquarters in Washington, D.C. The event, scheduled from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, will feature vehicles designed for road travel, industry leader discussions, and safety information. U.S. Transportation Secretary Duffy is expected to deliver remarks at noon. The expo aims to encourage safe and enjoyable road trips as part of the summer travel season and in celebration of America's 250th birthday.

Costco Wholesale Corp. reported that net sales for the five-week retail month of June rose 8.0% from a year earlier to $26.44 billion, signaling renewed momentum after a modest slowdown earlier in the year. Companywide comparable sales increased 5.8%, or 6.2% when adjusted for gasoline prices and foreign-exchange fluctuations.

Growth was broad-based: U.S. comparable sales advanced 4.7%, Canada gained 6.7%, and other international markets jumped 10.9%. Online demand remained robust, with e-commerce revenue climbing 11.5% year on year.

For the first 44 weeks of the fiscal year, net sales totalled $227.46 billion, up 8.0% from the same period in 2024. Costco now operates 907 warehouses worldwide, giving the retailer a platform to capitalise on continued strength in membership traffic and discretionary categories such as jewellery and gift cards.

Costco Wholesale is urging its 128 million members to check recent purchases after the retailer posted recall notices covering nearly a dozen products, ranging from automobile tires to household appliances and food. The company said customers should stop using the affected items immediately and follow manufacturer instructions for repairs, replacement or refunds.

Safety concerns vary by product. Bridgestone’s Blizzak 6 replacement tires in size 235/40R19 lack a required Department of Transportation certification mark, while Michelin’s Agilis CrossClimate tires in size 185/60R15C fail a federal endurance standard, raising crash-risk worries. Midea and Danby U-shaped window air-conditioners—part of a 1.7-million-unit U.S. recall—can accumulate water and foster mold. Anker’s Model A1257 and A1263 lithium-ion power banks, more than 1 million of which have been sold, may overheat or ignite.

Read more

Most large U.S. retailers and restaurant chains will operate on Independence Day, giving consumers ample last-minute shopping and dining options. Target, Walmart, Home Depot and Lowe’s plan to keep regular hours, while Sam’s Club will shut two to four hours earlier than usual depending on membership tier. Major grocery banners including Kroger-owned stores, Publix, Aldi, Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, Food Lion and Wegmans also intend to open, though several warn that local hours may be shortened.

Costco will be the notable exclusion: the membership warehouse club confirms all U.S. locations are closed on Friday. In the restaurant sector, McDonald’s, Starbucks, Dunkin’ and Chick-fil-A expect to serve customers, and most Subway outlets are likely to open at franchise discretion; Chipotle will close company-owned stores at 3 p.m. Banks, post offices and U.S. equity markets are closed for the federal holiday.

Travel volumes are set to be heavy. AAA projects a record 72.2 million Americans will take trips of at least 50 miles between 28 June and 6 July, up about 10% from the pre-pandemic 2019 period. AAA expects 61.6 million to travel by car and 5.8 million by air, advising motorists to check vehicles before setting out.

Costco Wholesale plans to open its first stand-alone gas station in Mission Viejo, California, roughly two miles from the company’s existing warehouse in the suburb south of Los Angeles. The retailer already operates fuel pumps adjacent to most of its warehouses, but the new out-parcel site marks the first time Costco will dispense gasoline without an accompanying store, part of a broader effort to ease congestion and improve convenience for members.

Read more

The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) collaborated with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in an immigration raid at a Costco in Pacoima, California. During the operation, LAPD arrested local journalist Anthony Orendorff for allegedly attempting to impede federal officers. The arrest has sparked demands from Democrats and local activists for Orendorff's release and criticism of LAPD's cooperation with federal immigration agencies. Separately, in Pasadena, California, a federal agent drew his service weapon on an anti-ICE protester who was attempting to photograph the agent's license plate, leading to calls for the agent's dismissal. These incidents have intensified tensions surrounding federal immigration enforcement and local law enforcement collaboration in the Los Angeles area.

Costco Wholesale Corp. is set to open its first stand-alone gas station in Mission Viejo, California, a suburb of Los Angeles, located about two miles from an existing warehouse. This move marks a departure from the typical gas stations attached to Costco warehouses. President and CEO Ron Vachris noted that the company has extended gas station hours across North America during the quarter to improve convenience for members.

Additionally, Costco is enhancing its membership benefits by reviving an exclusive shopping window perk for Executive members nationwide starting June 30. The company is also expanding delivery options for customers through Instacart. These developments come amid competitive pricing moves by Walmart's Sam's Club and ongoing changes in the retail grocery sector.

Costco Wholesale Corp. plans to open its first stand-alone gas station, breaking from its traditional model of pairing fuel pumps with retail warehouses. The new facility will be located in California roughly two miles from the nearest Costco warehouse, offering members fuel without the adjacent food court or store access typically found at the retailer’s sites.

The move follows Costco’s decision earlier this year to extend the operating hours of several warehouse-based gas stations to 10 p.m., a change aimed at improving convenience for members. Establishing a separate fuel outlet suggests the company is exploring additional ways to expand its gasoline business and reach customers beyond its immediate warehouse footprint.

Costco Wholesale Corporation announced new benefits for its Executive Membership tier, which costs $130 annually compared to the baseline $65 fee. Starting June 30, Executive Members will have early access to shop at some Costco warehouse locations, allowing them to enter stores 30 minutes to an hour before the general public and Gold Star members. This perk will be available at various locations, including Florida stores, and will apply to over 47% of Costco members. In addition to early shopping hours, Costco plans to offer a $10 monthly delivery credit for premium members.

Separately, Costco is testing a new standalone gas station exclusively for its members, with the first location opening in California by spring, and more to follow. The company is also expanding near its Issaquah headquarters. These initiatives aim to enhance the value of Costco's higher-tier memberships and improve the shopping experience for its most loyal customers.

A Santa Rosa, California, shopper has sued Costco Wholesale for more than $14 million, claiming a heavy liquor-cabinet display fell on her at the warehouse club’s store on March 22 and caused lasting injuries. The civil complaint was filed in Sonoma County Superior Court and seeks compensatory damages for medical expenses, lost earnings and pain and suffering.

Plaintiff Sadie Novotny alleges the unsecured cabinet struck her head and body, resulting in a traumatic brain injury and other “multiple, permanent and severe” harms. The lawsuit contends Costco failed to properly secure the display or warn customers of the hazard and has refused to release surveillance video of the incident.

Costco Wholesale Corporation is addressing multiple operational challenges and growth opportunities as it expands its footprint and works to improve customer experience. The company has recently acquired two vacant locations formerly occupied by Bed Bath & Beyond and Regal Cinemas in Orange County, California, signaling a strategic move to grow its presence in that region. During its latest earnings call, CEO Ron Vachris highlighted efforts to manage overcrowding issues in stores, aiming to enhance shopping conditions for its U.S. membership base. Additionally, Costco is managing recalls affecting widely consumed items across a large geographic area, which has raised safety concerns among customers. Despite these challenges, the company sees potential for sales growth driven by improved member satisfaction.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has clarified that grocery store and club membership cards, including Costco cards, are not accepted as valid identification for airport security checkpoints. The TSA emphasized that these cards cannot substitute for a Real ID and warned that attempting to use them could result in travel delays and complications. The agency reiterated this message across multiple communications to dispel rumors suggesting otherwise.

Costco Wholesale Corporation is planning significant expansion in 2025, with the company announcing the opening of 27 new locations this year, bringing it closer to a total of 1,000 stores. The CEO has hinted at upcoming changes aimed at benefiting members, including strategies to protect them from the impact of tariffs, particularly on products like bananas. Additionally, Costco continues to offer competitive pricing on various food items compared to other grocery stores. The company’s stock has experienced multiple expansion, reflecting investor confidence amid its growth and member-focused initiatives.

The Nintendo Switch 2 console, bundled with the game Mario Kart World and including the Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) Expansion Pack, has been restocked at multiple major retailers including Costco, Target, and Walmart. The bundle is available for purchase by Costco members and is priced at $499.99 at Target. This restock includes the console along with games and accessories, providing consumers with several options to acquire the latest Nintendo gaming system and related products.

Costco Wholesale Corporation has confirmed it is testing 'scan-and-go' checkout technology aimed at reducing long lines and improving the shopping experience for its members. The move addresses a top concern among customers regarding checkout speed. This initiative comes as Costco continues its aggressive store expansion while investing in store revamps, supply chain enhancements, and technology upgrades. The testing of this technology aligns Costco with competitors such as Sam's Club and BJ's, which already offer similar features. Costco's CEO has indicated that this potential change will be well received by members.

Costco Wholesale Corporation reported net sales of $20.97 billion for May 2025, marking a 6.8% increase year-over-year. Sales for the first 39 weeks of the year reached $201.02 billion, up 8% compared to the previous year. U.S. comparable sales rose by 4.1%, while Canadian comparable sales increased by 3.3%.

Excluding gas and foreign exchange effects, comparable sales grew 6% overall, with 5.5% growth in the U.S. and 8.4% internationally. E-commerce sales in the U.S. were up 11.6%. Despite these gains, Costco’s sales growth has slowed for the fifth consecutive month, with core comparable sales rising 6% in May, slightly below the 6.2% consensus expectation according to Wells Fargo. Loop Capital maintained a Buy rating on Costco, raising its price target to $1,170 from $1,110, citing international comparable sales outperformance, fading foreign exchange headwinds, and market share gains, although near-term margin pressure remains a concern.

Costco Wholesale Corporation has implemented several changes to its gas stations, including extended operating hours and the opening of new locations earlier this year. These adjustments, combined with recent reductions in commodity costs, have enabled Costco to lower prices on key staples such as eggs and butter. The company’s CFO also stated that Costco is maintaining prices on certain tariff-impacted items despite ongoing trade tensions. Additionally, lower petrol prices have contributed to a surge in Costco's profits. The retailer is currently testing a significant change to its checkout process, addressing customer concerns about this aspect of the shopping experience.

Costco Wholesale Corp. reported better-than-expected earnings and sales for its third quarter, driven by increased memberships, sales growth, and expanded e-commerce activity. The company has strategically limited the impact of tariffs on its business, contributing to a 14% year-to-date rise in its stock price, which recently jumped 3% to $1,040 per share following the earnings announcement. Costco has also enhanced its customer offerings by extending gas station hours and opening new gas stations earlier this year, which has positively impacted its performance. Additionally, the retailer lowered prices on key staples such as eggs and butter in response to recent declines in commodity costs, further supporting its sales growth and member satisfaction.

Costco has taken multiple measures to mitigate the impact of the 145% US tariff on Chinese goods, which came into effect in April 2025. The company pulled forward some goods originally planned for summer and sourced additional locally produced items to reduce tariff exposure in the US market. It also rerouted many goods sourced from countries with high tariff exposure to non-US markets. Despite missing sales expectations, Costco has stated it will not raise prices yet.

Meanwhile, US retail giants are pressuring Chinese suppliers to absorb up to 66% of the tariff costs. Retailers broadly are warning of potential price increases driven by tariffs, with some already raising prices. The situation has sparked pushback from small businesses affected by the tariff policies.

Costco Wholesale Corporation (ticker: COST) has experienced a pattern of shares gapping down following earnings announcements, occurring in 12 of the last 14 quarters. Despite this, the stock has demonstrated strong relative strength compared to the broader market, outperforming the S&P 500 index (SPY) over the past five years alongside Sprouts Farmers Market (SFM). Since 2017, Costco's earnings per share (EPS) have grown from approximately $6 to $17, reflecting an annual growth rate of around 13-15% over the past 15 years. During this period, the company has paid about $43 per share in dividends and maintained a net-debt-free balance sheet. Costco's price-to-earnings (PE) ratio has consistently traded at or above 33 times earnings since early 2020, indicating sustained investor confidence. Market observers have noted the stock's strong technical chart performance and resilience despite periodic earnings-related price declines.

As Memorial Day 2025 approaches, many businesses have chosen to remain open, contributing to one of the largest retail sales and travel weekends of the year. Retailers such as Publix and Costco, along with various shopping centers, are open to accommodate last-minute grocery runs and holiday shopping. In Washington, D.C., the Memorial Day Parade has prompted road closures and no-parking zones to manage event traffic. Following the holiday, the U.S.

Department of Transportation will host The Great American Road Trip Expo on May 29 at its headquarters in Washington, D.C. The event, scheduled from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, will feature vehicles designed for road travel, industry leader discussions, and safety information. U.S. Transportation Secretary Duffy is expected to deliver remarks at noon. The expo aims to encourage safe and enjoyable road trips as part of the summer travel season and in celebration of America's 250th birthday.