Happy Semiquincentennial, America!
250 Reasons Why America Is Still Worth Celebrating
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It's America's 250th birthday! Here are 250 reasons to celebrate this land of the free and the brave.
Let’s hear a round of thunderous applause for America’s semiquincentennial! (Or maybe a reluctant and sarcastic slow clap from you cynics in the crowd.) Sure our beloved nation is far from perfect. From sea to shining sea there are still challenges to meet and opportunities we have overlooked. But hey. Look how far we’ve come in just 250 years! We’ve added 37 states and there are currently 130 times as many Americans as there was in 1776. Population growth is good, right? We’ve hired 47 presidents, admittedly some better than others. And then there is corn on the cob, Route 66, Philly cheesesteaks, Wrigley Field, greasy spoon diners, SPAM. Are you smiling yet?
In these pages you'll find a pinch of nostalgia, a dash of travelogue, a burst of patriotism, and even a challenge for all Americans to cherish this country and . . . maybe do better.
Whether you’re a progressive, a conservative, or refuse to be labeled, we invite you to celebrate America’s semiquincentennial. Join us for a much-needed healthy dose of optimism, a dash of silliness, and proof positive that America is still the place you want to call home.
Jay Payleitner
Prior to becoming a full-time author and speaker, Jay Payleitner (www.jaypayleitner.com) served as freelance radio producer for a wide range of international movements, including the Salvation Army, Prison Fellowship, Bible League, Voice of the Martyrs, and National Center for Fathering.
As a family advocate, life pundit, and humorist, Jay has sold some half-million books, including 52 Things Kids Need from a Dad, Lifeology, and What If God Wrote Your Bucket List? His books have been translated into French, German, Spanish, Slovenian, and Russian.
Jay is a national speaker for conferences, retreats, and weekend services with messages on parenting, marriage, creativity, storytelling, and finding your life purpose. He has been a guest multiple times on The Harvest Show, 100 Huntley Street, and Focus on the Family. Jay also served as Executive Director of the Illinois Fatherhood Initiative.
Jay and his high school sweetheart, Rita, live in the Chicago area where they raised five great kids, loved on ten foster babies, and are cherishing grandparenthood.
More by Jay Payleitner
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