HOLIDAY BLESSINGS Nov-Dec AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL 250 - First Independent Thanksgiving
I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, And to the Republic for which it stands, One Nation Under God, Indivisible, with Liberty and Justice for all
DAILY PRAYER FOR AMERICA
“I now make it my earnest prayer, that God would have the United States in his holy protection, that He would incline the hearts of the Citizens to cultivate a spirit of subordination and obedience to Government, to entertain a brotherly affection and love for one another, for their fellow citizens of the United States at large, and particularly for their brethren who have served in the Field, and finally, that he would most graciously be pleased to dispose us all, to do Justice, to love mercy, and to demean ourselves with that Charity, humility and pacific temper of mind, which were the Characteristicks of the Devine Author of our blessed Religion, and without a humble imitation of whose example in these things, we can never hope to be a happy Nation. Amen”
George Washington
JOIN GEORGE WASHINGTON’S
read aloud each day at Mount Vernon's public wreath laying ceremony
“Washington’s Prayer” painting by Jon McNaughton
O beautiful for pilgrim feet Whose stern, impassioned stress A thoroughfare for freedom beat Across the wilderness! America! America! God shed His grace on thee Till paths be wrought through wilds of thought By pilgrim foot and knee!
Lars Leber Photography
Awesome American Citizens,
First, aren’t these three great words - and aren’t they ones every citizen of the country should want to be heard about themself? One would hope so! With the 4th of July upon U.S. and the 250th Birthday of the Nation only 1-year away, now is the time for “All Americas” to make a (re)commitment to being Patriotic stand-outs and/or walk-ons to the team.
With a lot going on in the country, Awesome American Citizenship is needed now as much as it was in 1775 (250-years ago). Much like then, people today are saying and asking, “Things are really crazy...What can I do?” An Awesome thing to ask!
The very simple and easy answer is: If you are a son or daughter or grandchild (which we all are), be a great and respectful one; If you are a spouse, be an
amazing and faithful spouse; If you are a parent, be a loving one; A student, a diligent one; A friend, a kind and considerate one; A neighbor; a helpful one; A worker, a productive one, A boss, an encouraging one; A leader, an honest and decent one; A citizen; an Awesome one. How about that, dear America?
How great would that be? A M A Z I N G !
It’s going to require some effort but the benefits to you and U.S. “All”, will be a hundred-fold:
Blessings in our lives
Blessings in our families Blessings in friendships Blessings in our work Blessings in our finances Blessings in our neighborhoods Blessings in our communities Blessings in our Cities Blessings in our States Blessings in our Nation Blessings in our World ... And just in time for a Blessed 250th Birthday!
Come on America, let’s get the “Spectacular” Party Plans underway. The Country needs you and we don’t have any time to waste. This issue (#6), of AMERICA
THE BEAUTIFUL 250 is meant to encourage. Upon reading it, we believe you will be - and that Awesome American Citizenship will be yours. Get to reading! And please enjoy the blessings of the amazing USA!
One Year to Go!
The countdown to America's 250th birthday is underway...And the time to get ready is now
USA1 JULY 4, 1777
1st Anniversary:
The war with Great Britain raged on and America was almost late to her own party...What was up with that?
Well, thank goodness for saved letters, we have somewhat of an idea from a written account according to John Adams’ July 5th letter to his daughter, Abigail In it, he described what took place and that the Continental Congress almost forgot to recognize the 4th of July all together. He writes from Philadelphia:
“My dear Daughter - Yesterday, being the anniversary of American Independence, was celebrated here, with
a festivity and ceremony becoming the occasion. I am too old to delight in pretty descriptions, if I had a talent for them, otherwise a picture might be drawn, which would please the fancy of a Whig, at least...”
“The thought of taking any notice of this day, was not conceived, until the second of this month, and it was not mentioned until the third. It was too late to have a sermon, as everyone wished, so this must be deferred another year...”
“In the morning the Delaware frigate, several large gallies, and other continental armed vessels, the Pennsylvania ship, and row gallies and guard boats, were all hawled off in the river, and several of them beautifully dressed in the colours of all nations, displayed about upon the masts, yards, and rigging
At one o’clock the ships were all manned, that is, the men were all ordered aloft, and arranged upon the tops, yards, and shrowds, making a striking appearance of companies of men drawn up in order, in the air. Then I went on board the Delaware, with the President and several gentlemen of the Marine Committee, soon after which we were saluted with a discharge of thirteen guns, which was followed by thirteen others, from each other armed vessel in the river; then the gallies followed the fire, and after them the guard boats. Then the President and company returned in the barge to the shore, and were saluted with three cheers, from every ship, galley, and boat in the river. The wharves and shores, were lined with a
vast concourse of people, all shouting and huzzaing, in a manner which gave great joy to every friend to this country, and the utmost terror and dismay to every lurking tory.
At three we went to dinner, and were very agreeably entertained with excellent company, good cheer, fine music from the band of Hessians taken at Trenton, and continual vollies between every toast, from a company of soldiers drawn up in Second-street before the city tavern, where we dined. The toasts were in honour of our country, and the heroes who have fallen in their pious efforts to defend her.
After this, two troops of light-horse, raised in Maryland, accidentally here in their way to camp, were paraded through Second-street, after them a train of artillery, and then about a thousand infantry, now in this city on their march to camp, from North Carolina All these marched into the common, where they went through their firings and manoeuvres; but I did not follow them.
In the evening, I was walking about the streets for a little fresh air and exercise and was surprised to find the whole city lighting up their candles at the windows. I walked most of the evening, and I think it was the most splendid illumination I ever saw; a few surly houses were dark; but the lights were very universal. Considering the lateness of the design and the suddenness of the execution, I was amazed at the universal joy and alacrity that was discovered, and at
the brilliancy and splendour of every part of this joyful exhibition. I had forgot the ringing of bells all day and evening, and the bonfires in the streets, and the fireworks played off.
Had General Howe been here in disguise, or his master, this show would have given them the heartache. I am your affectionate father, John Adams”
The first Fourth of July firework show was in Philadelphia in 1777
“On July 4, 1777, the first independence celebration took place in Philadelphia. Ships in the harbor were lined in freedom colors while the United States celebrated their freedom with fireworks and cannons. However, Fireworks did not become a staple of July 4 celebrations until after 1816.” - FREEDOM FIREWORKS
4, 1826
"This is the Fourth of July” - Thomas Jefferson’s dying words
“America’s Jubilee”
John Quincy Adams (son of John Adams), was now President (America’s 6th); the American Flag had 24 stars; and the country's population was booming at nearly 12-million citizens On the day, Americans reflected on the country’s 50-year past and reveled in ideas of its future There was a celebration of parades and speeches by Revolutionary War veterans, and news would spread that two of America’s heroes - John Adams and Thomas Jefferson - had died that day.
“On that day, while every heart was bounding with joy and every voice was tuned to gratulation, amid the blessings of freedom and independence which the sires of a former age had handed down to their children, two of the principal actors in that solemn scenethe hand that penned the ever memorable, Declaration and the voice that sustained it in debate were by one summons, at the distance of 700 miles from each other, called before the Judge of All to account for their deeds done upon earth”
John Quincy Adams 1826
John Adams had been the 2nd President of the United States, serving from 1797-1801. He was now 90-years old. Upon the Country’s establishment, he was the first Vice President under President George Washington. Adams was a learned and thoughtful man and a remarkable political philosopher. Thomas Jefferson, succeeding Adams as the third President of the United States (1801-1809); was the principal author of the Declaration of Independence and was an incredibly beloved statesman. He was now 83.
For eleven years after the presidential election of 1800, where Jefferson beat Adams, these two political foes were estranged. Jefferson, along with James Madison, had formed the Democratic-Republican Party while Adams was a Federalist. On January 1, 1812, Adams wrote a letter to Jefferson which rekindled their friendship, which lasted until the time of their deaths. It was an extraordinary and poetically odd coincidence that these two friends, Founding Fathers, and Former Presidents, would both die on this American Jubilee. Jefferson died shortly after noon in Monticello, Virginia and Adams died in Quincy, Massachusetts a few hours later. Unaware that Jefferson had died, John Adams last words were, “Thomas Jefferson Survives.”
With slow moving news, in the days following, papers had only printed letters from Adams, Jefferson, and other surviving signers of the Declaration of Independence, who had declined their attendance at the July 4th Jubilee celebration in Washington Can you hear, “BREAKING NEWS - STOP THE PRESSES”
Last portraits of former U.S. presidents John Adams and Thomas Jefferson completed shortly before their deaths.
WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
Oil on canvas by Gilbert Stuart, 1826. Smithsonian American Art Museum. Oil on canvas by Thomas Sully 1821. The American Philosophical Society
USA100 JULY 4, 1876
100th Anniversary: “The centennial”
The Civil War ended in 1875, and in 1876 (from May thru November), Philadelphia hosted the first official World’s Fair in the United States, where thirty-seven countries and nearly 10-million people attended. The event was called the “Centennial International Exhibition of 1876 ” It celebrated world peace and the 100th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence...but many of the ladies weren’t happy.
On this July 4th, at the Exhibition, Susan B. Anthony and other members of National Women’s Suffrage Association disrupted the celebration by forcing the
way onto the speakers’ platform. Anthony was deadset on thrusting the Declaration of Rights for Women directly into the hands of Vice President of the United States, who was speaking at the podium. Many women had planned displays for the occasion, but they were denied space in the Main Exhibition Hall.
The aftermath of the Civil War weighed heavily in the 1876 Centennial celebrations.
However, being undeterred, the women all by themselves (save one male architect), constructed the “Women’s Pavilion.” With the goal of advancing their social, economic and legal standing, the building showcased women’s achievements (including over 70 patented inventions).
“It seems fitting that on the occurrence of the hundredth anniversary of our existence as a Nation, a grateful acknowledgment should be made to Almighty God for the protection and the bounties which He has vouchsafed to our beloved country."
- Ulysses S. Grant
USA150 JULY 4, 1926
150th Anniversary:
In the United States, on this Fourth of July, it was marked by a patriotic speech from President Calvin Coolidge, whose birthday was also on the 4th of July. His speech emphasized the enduring importance of the Declaration's principles, and it bears repeating here (excerpts below).
“Fellow Countrymen:
We meet to celebrate the birthday of America. That coming of a new life always excites our interest. Although we know in the case of the individual that it has been an infinite repetition reaching back beyond
our vision, that only makes it more wonderful. But how our interest and wonder increase when we behold the miracle of the birth of a new nation. It is to pay our tribute of reverence and respect to those who participated in such a mighty event that we annually observe the 4th day of July. Whatever may have been the impression created by the news which went out from this city on that summer day in 1776, there can be no doubt as to the estimate which is now placed upon it. At the end of 150 years the four corners of the earth unite in coming to Philadelphia as to a holy shrine in grateful acknowledgment of a service so great, which a few inspired men here rendered to humanity, that it is still the preeminent support of free government throughout the world...
We do need a better understanding and comprehension of them (The Founders), and a better knowledge of the foundations of government in general. Our forefathers came to certain conclusions and decided upon certain courses of action which have been a great blessing to the world. Before we can understand their conclusions, we must go back and review the course which they followed. We must think the thoughts which they thought. Their intellectual life centered around the meetinghouse. They were intent upon religious worship While there were always among them men of deep learning, and later those who had comparatively large possessions, the mind of the people was not so much engrossed in how much they knew, or how much they had, as in
how they were going to live. While scantily provided with other literature, there was a wide acquaintance with the Scriptures. Over a period as great as that which measures the existence of our independence, they were subject to this discipline not only in their religious life and educational training, but also in their political thought. They were a people who came under the influence of a great spiritual development and acquired a great moral power.
No other theory is adequate to explain or comprehend the Declaration of Independence It is the product of the spiritual insight of the people. We live in an age of science and of abounding accumulation of material things. These did not create our Declaration. Our Declaration created them. The things of the spirit come first. Unless we cling to that, all our material prosperity, overwhelming though it may appear, will turn to a barren scepter in our grasp. If we are to maintain the great heritage which has been bequeathed to us, we must be like-minded as the fathers who created it. We must not sink into a pagan materialism. We must cultivate the reverence which they had for the things that are holy. We must follow the spiritual and moral leadership which they showed. We must keep replenished, that they may glow with a more compelling flame, the altar fires before which they worshiped.”
- President Calvin Coolidge July 4th, 1926
JULY 4, 1976
USA200 JULY 4, 1976
200th Anniversary: The Bicentennial
The Bicentennial culminated on Sunday, July 4, 1976, with the 200th anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence by the Founding Fathers of the Second Continental Congress in 1776.
In the city skies throughout America, festivities of elaborate fireworks were flying high In Washington D.C., President Ford presided over the celebration there and the event was nationally televised. Reenactments, parades, and parties of national pride
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swept across the “Fruited Plains” of the nation as the year went on. The Events kicked off with a large parade of an international fleet of tall-masted sailing ships. The “Operation Sail” gathering began in the harbor of New York City on Independence Day. One week later the celebration was held in Boston.
1976 Bicentennial Celebrations in Washington DC, New York & Boston
“Buoyed by panoramic spectacles that included a unique armada of tall-masted ships, a massive fireworks display and a series of festivals that took over downtown Manhattan, millions of New Yorkers and visitors in a happy mood observed the nation's Bicentennial yesterday.” - New York Times 1976
“Let each of us, in this year of our Bicentennial, join with those brave and farsighted Americans of 1776. Let us, here and now, mutually pledge to the ennobling and enduring principles of the Declaration our lives, our fortunes, and our sacred honor. Let us do so, as they did, with firm reliance on the protection of divine providence, that the future of this land that we love may be ever brighter for our children and for generations of Americans yet to be born.”
President Gerald R. Ford
249th Anniversary: USA249 JULY 4, 2025
it’s Our time to celebrate
And a time for “All Americans”
to shine bright
For 249-years, “All Americans” throughout the country, have done just that. They have and will continue to shine and live out Founding FatherJohn Adams’ wishes and dreams for America:
“I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated, by succeeding Generations, as the great anniversary Festival. It ought to be commemorated, as the Day of Deliverance by solemn Acts of Devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more. You will think me transported with Enthusiasm, but I am not. I am well-aware of the Toil and Blood and Treasure, that it will cost Us to maintain this Declaration, and support and defend these States. -- Yet through all the Gloom I can see the Rays of ravishing Light and Glory. I can see that the End is more than worth all the Means. And that Posterity will tryumph in that Days Transaction, even altho, We should rue it, which I trust in God We shall not.” John Adams (letter to wife, Abigail), thoughts on the Fourth of July 1776.
The Vice President of Marketing at Johnsonville, Jamie Schmelzer, says: “We know lots of organizations - even the White House - are focused on America’s 250th in 2026, but the data is clear: America needs fun now. We’re encouraging people to celebrate our 249th because many of us agree that having fun together is an important part of making progress.” Johnsonville partnered with the Milwaukee-based agency, Hold Fast, to bring the 249 vision to life.
At Johnsonville, they have a mission and moral responsibility to create and maintain an environment that requires each member to fully develop their Godgiven talents and help others do the same.
“JOHNSONVILLE
WANTS TO GET THE PARTY STARTED FOR AMERICA’S 249TH BIRTHDAY, TELLING THE NATION WE CAN’T WAIT ANY LONGER”
This year, America’s No. 1 sausage brand, Johnsonville, is kickstarting the country’s 249th birthday celebration, by tackling what it calls America’s “fun deficit.”
New findings from the 2025 Johnsonville National Temperature Check, conducted by The Harris Poll, reveal Americans feel disconnected - and fun is taking a hit.
According to the survey:
v 78% say they are spending less time hanging out with others
v 64% agree having fun with people is harder than it used to be
v 90% believe it’s important for communities to have fun together, especially when things aren’t perfect.
v 91% agree we make more progress when we have fun together.
v 91% say delicious food makes hanging out more fun.
Go be Awesome American Citizens
And have some good, clean fun!
Gentlemen and Ladies, please
would be Squabbles and tongues a 'lashing... with “ladies” in the ring. REALLY, LADIES?
All to get collective tempers to flare... Or maybe they were meant to do morein having U.S. take a look, at ourselves?
And then came the “political” cartoons to capture the ire, and stoke the primal fires ?...
These 1775 cartoons, were a few of the tame ones. The Colonists and the Crown had had enough with each other, and the gloves of civility had already come off. Despite all, one last attempt at diplomacy by the American patriots, was being debated and drafted up. “The Olive Branch Petition” was the cordial attempt for peace with the King.
THE GLOVES WERE OFF BUT THE OLIVE BRANCH IS EXTENDED
Then, like today, things didn’t go exactly as planned and hoped for IMAGINE THAT!
King George was not the least bit receptive, and he bit back with a Proclamation of his own, which essentially read, “Fight’s On!” ... And, oh yeah, “God Save the King”.
Meanwhile, in America, there was some inner fighting as to what America was going to do about it, and many relationships were hotly tested. Modern day . drama will give you the point, but it’s wise to recollect the events which brought about the Revolution, so we can gain a little insight for our actions.
On the following pages, is the low down on what was going on in the months of July and August 1775. Imagine yourself in the mix back then and how it makes you feel today.
Think for a moment: “Have you ever been in a “Really Big Fight” that you didn’t want to be in? Maybe with your spouse, your children, your parents, your siblings, your friends, your neighbors, your boss, coworkers, business partners / customers, your classmates, teammates or opponents?
“The List” goes on - and so does the hurt and aggravating feelings. So too (for kindhearted, civil folks), do the hopes that some good resolve will soon come about when these rifts occur... Aren’t we called to this?
Has that ever been your prayer or have the embers of anger and rage sometimes turned to hatred, where “It’s a time for war?” - For Peace sake ... What an interesting paradox!
It seems then, with these feelings in mind, you can now better relate to what was taking place in America in the Summer of 1775, and all that had led up to this moment. By then, there was lots of feelings and emotions that had gotten to a boiling point, and there was not much left to do but make a last ditch
effort, if possible, to take the scalding pot off the burner, as it were That was going to be a trick because the gloves had already been thrown off and the Battles of Lexington and Concord and Bunker Hill had just months and weeks earlier, taken place - with many dead.
Temperatures and emotions were HOT, HOT, HOT! While no one liked what was going on, there were fears by many, that war (Against the mightiest force in the world), was going to make matters a whole lot worse and every effort should be made to prevent .
At this point, others were way past that, and their game plan was, “Let’s Get It On” or in more refined colloquial terms, "If they mean to have a war, let it begin here,” which was the battle-cry of Captain John Parker, Commander of the Lexington Militia, at the Battle of Lexington. Or as Patrick Henry proclaimed, months earlier, in March of 1775, “No man thinks more highly than I do of the patriotism, as well as abilities, of the very worthy gentlemen who have just addressed
THE GLOVES WERE OFF BUT THE OLIVE BRANCH IS EXTENDED
the House. But different men often see the same subject in different lights; and, therefore, I hope it will not be thought disrespectful to those gentlemen if, entertaining as I do, opinions of a character very opposite to theirs, I shall speak forth my sentiments freely and without reserve ... The war is inevitable -- and let it come! I repeat it, sir, let it come. It is in vain, sir, to extenuate the matter. Gentlemen may cry, Peace, Peace -- but there is no peace. The war is actually-begun! The next gale that sweeps from the north will bring to our ears the clash of resounding arms! Our brethren are already in the field! Why stand we here idle? What is it that gentlemen wish? What would they have? Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take but as for me: give me liberty or give me death!”
So, there you have it: The American Revolution, in simplest terms, had colonists in America being forced to choose sides:
Patriot and Loyalist? The civil war within the British Realm was beginning to emerge.
Referred to and known as Revolutionaries, Continentals, and Rebels - these “Patriots” supported self-rule and were willing to fight for independence from British rule. The Loyalists, on the other hand, known as the King's Men or “Tories,” wanted to remained loyal to the British Crown, especially for fear of reprisal.
As you can imagine, this differing mindset, created a tremendous conflict within the colonies. Neighbors and sometimes, even families found themselves on opposing sides - with lines of opposition being drawn by complex political, religious and economic beliefs and factors such as closeness to the conflicts which were taking place. Many merchants, Anglican clergy and new immigrants feared rebellion as did some Native and Black Americans who initially supported the Loyalists because of British policies and promises. VERY INTERESTING !
After the Battles ofLexington andConcord, andBunkerHill,temperatureswererunning hot and everyone was scared. The Second Continental Congress had convened, and discussions were fierce. In an address to the delegates, John Dickinson made his impassioned speech to try to keep America out of a full-scale war with Britain. His desired outcome was that the colonies could still somehow, make amends and remedy the situation with Great Britain, before mattersgotworse.
John Adams made his rebuttal speech and hadpersuadedmany inCongresstoagreeto supportwar. Whiletherewasplentyofinner -fighting and disagreements, something ultimately had to be dome. The Olive Branch Resolution was the immediate outcome...butnotforlong... Therewouldsoonbeacalltoarms!
Arthur Szyk, The Arthur Szyk Society, Burlingame, CA
THE GLOVES WERE OFF BUT THE OLIVE BRANCH IS EXTENDED
John
Dickinson
felt that before resorting
to
war, every peaceful means should be made to resolve the conflicts with Britain.
“Gentlemen, the consequences involved in the motion now lying before us are of such magnitude that I tremble at the oppressive honor of sharing in its determination. My conduct this day I expect will give finishing blow to my once great and now diminished popularity. Yet I would rather forfeit popularity forever than vote away the blood and happiness of my countrymen. Independence will not strengthen us by one man, nor by the least supply , but it will expose our soldiers to additional cruelties and outrages. The full fury of the British wrath will be unleashed. Indians will be loosed on the frontier. Negroes will rise-up to slaughter us. New York may well be destroyed. By their own admission, the advocates of separation say that foreign assistance will be necessary. At what cost? Let us imagine a war without victors. When the guns fall silent, many will have bled and sacrificed, only to exchange the light yoke of Great Britain for the heavy dominion of an alien power. Now some have argued that America will become one great commonwealth, but what is to keep thirteen unwieldy colonies from splitting asunder? I have a strong impression in my mind that this will take place. Now gentlemen, to escape the protection of Great Britain by declaring independence unprepared as we are, would be to brave the storm in a skiff made of paper...”
John Adams felt that the time for decisive action had arrived, and that time for Independence was now.
“Objects of the most stupendous magnitude, measures which affect the lives of millions, born and unborn are now before us. We must expect a great expense of blood. But we must remember that a free constitution of civil government cannot be purchased at too dear a rate as there is nothing on this side of Jerusalem of greater importance to mankind. My worthy colleague from Pennsylvania spoke with great agility and eloquence. He has given you a grim prognostication for our national future. But where he foresees apocalypse, I see hope. I see a new nation ready to take its place in the world. Not an empire, but a republic. A republic of laws, not men Gentlemen, we are in the very midst of revolution. The most complete unexpected and remarkable of any in the history of the world. How few of the human-race have ever had the opportunity of choosing a system of government for themselves and their children. I am not without apprehensions, gentlemen. But the end we have in sight is worth more than all the means. I believe sirs, that the hour has come. My judgment approves this measure and my whole heart is in it. All that I have, and all that I am, and all that I hope in this life, I am now ready to stake upon it While I live, let me have a country A free country.”
IN 1775, It was a full fight-card with even the heavyweights jumping into the ring, to duke it out
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THE GLOVES WERE OFF BUT THE OLIVE BRANCH IS EXTENDED
The Olive Branch Petition theKing Never Read
“To the King's Most Excellent Majesty . Most Gracious Sovereign,
We your Majesty's faithful subjects of the colonies of New-hampshire, Massachussetts-bay, Rhode island and Providence plantations, Connecticut, New-York, New-Jersey, Pennsylvania, the counties of New Castle, Kent and Sussex on Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina and South Carolina, in behalf of ourselves and the inhabitants of these colonies, who have deputed us to represent them in general Congress, entreat your Majesty's gracious attention to this our humblepetition.
The union between our Mother Country and these colonies, and the energy of mild and just government, produced benefits so remarkably important, and afforded such an assurance of their permanency and increase, that the wonder and envy of other Nations were excited, while they beheld Great Britain riseing to a power the most extraordinary the world had ever known.
Her rivalsobserving, that there was no probability of this happy connection being broken by civil dissentions, and apprehending its future effects, if left any longer undisturbed, resolved to prevent her receiving such continual and formidable accessions of wealth and strength, by checking the growth of these settlements from which they were to be derived.
In the prosecution of this attempt events so unfavourable to the design took place, that every friend to the interests of Great Britain and these colonies entertained pleasing and reasonable expectations of seeing an additional force and extention immediately given to the operations of the union hitherto experienced, by an enlargement of the dominions of the Crown, and the removal of ancient and warlike enemies to a greater distance. At the conclusion therefore of the late war, the most glorious and advantagious that ever had been carried on by British arms, your loyal colonists having contributed to its success, by such repeated and strenuous exertions, as frequently procured them the distinguished approbation of your Majesty, of the late king, and of Parliament, doubted not but that they should be permitted with the rest of the empire, to share in the blessings of peace and the emoluments of victory and conquest. While these recent and honorable acknowledgments of their merits remained on record in the journals and acts of the august legislature the Parliament, undefaced by the imputation or even the suspicion of any offence, they were alarmed by a new system of Statutes and regulations adopted for the administration of the colonies, that filled their minds with the most painful fears and jealousies; and to their inexpressible astonishment perceived the dangers of a foreign quarrel quickly succeeded by domestic dangers, in their judgment of a more dreadful kind.
THE GLOVES WERE OFF BUT THE
Nor were their anxieties alleviated by any tendancy in this system to promote the welfare of the Mother Country . For 'tho its effects were more immediately felt by them, yets its influence appeared to be injurious to the commerce and prosperity of Great Britain.
We shall decline the ungrateful task of describing the irksome variety of artifices practised by many of your Majestys ministers, the delusive pretences, fruitless terrors, and unavailing severities, that have from time to time been dealt out by them, in their attempts to execute this impolitic plan, or of traceing thro' a series of years past the progress of the unhappy differences between Great Britain and these colonies which have flowed from this fatal source. Your Majestys ministers persevering in their measures and proceeding to open hostilities for enforcing them, have compelled us to arm in our own defence, and have engaged us in a controversy so peculiarly abhorrent to the affection of your still faithful colonists, that when we consider whom we must oppose in this contest, and if it continues, what may be the consequences, our own particular misfortunes are accountedby us, only as parts of our distress
Knowing, to what violent resentments and incurable animosities, civil discords are apt to exasperate and inflame the contending parties, we think ourselves required by indispensable obligations to Almighty God, to your Majesty, to our fellowsubjects, and to
ourselves, immediately to use all the means in our power not incompatible with our safety, for stopping the further effusion of blood, and for averting the impending calamities that threaten the British Empire.
Thus, called upon to address your Majesty on affairs of such moment to America, and probably to all your dominions, we are earnestly desirous of performing this office with the utmost deference for your Majesty; and we therefore pray, that your royal magnanimity and benevolence may make the most favourable construction of our expressions on so uncommon an occasion. Could we represent in their full force the sentiments that agitate the minds of us your dutifulsubjects, we are persuaded,your Majesty would ascribe any seeming deviation from reverence, and our language, and even in our conduct, not to any reprehensible intention but to the impossibility or reconciling the usual appearances of respect with a just attention to our own preservation against those artful and cruel enemies, who abuse your royal confidence andauthority for the purpose of effecting our destruction.
Attached to your Majestys person, family and government with all the devotion that principle and affection can inspire, connected with Great Britain by the strongest ties that can unite societies, and deploring every event that tends in any degree to weaken them, we solemnly assure your Majesty, that
Politics gets ratcheted up: Virginia’s royal governor flees as the House of Burgesses rejects a peace offer from London and the Continental Congress puts George Washington in charge of a new Patriot army. The refusal of the Olive Branch Petition escalates all.
THE GLOVES WERE OFF BUT THE OLIVE BRANCH IS EXTENDED
we not only most ardently desire the former harmony between her and these colonies may be restored but that a concord may be established between themupon so firm a basis, as to perpetuate its blessings uninterrupted by any future dissentions to succeeding generations in both countries, and to transmit your Majestys name to posterity adorned with that signal and lasting glory that has attended the memory of those illustrious personages, whose virtues and abilities have extricated states from dangerous convulsions, and by securing happiness to others, have erected the most noble and durable monuments to their own fame.
We beg leave further to assure your Majesty that notwithstanding the sufferings of your loyal colonists during the course, of the present controversy, our breasts retain to tender a regard for the kingdom from which we derive our origin to request such a reconciliation as might in any manner be inconsistent with her dignity or her welfare. These, related as we are to her, honor and duty, as well as inclination induce us to support and advance; and the apprehensions that now oppress our hearts with unspeakable grief, being once removed, your Majesty will find your faithful subjects on this continent ready and willing at all times, as they ever have been with their lives and fortunes to assert and maintain therights and interests of your Majesty and of our MotherCountry .
authority and influence may be graciously interposed to procure us releif [sic] from our afflicting fears and jealousies occasioned by the system before mentioned, and to settle peace through every part of your dominions, with all humility submitting to your Majesty's wise consideration, whether it may not be expedient for facilitating those important purposes, that your Majesty be pleased to direct some mode by which the united applications of your faithful colonists to the throne, in pursuance of their common councils, may be improved into a happy and permanent reconciliation; and that in the meantime measures be taken for preventing the further destruction of the lives of your Majesty's subjects; and that such statutes as more immediately distress any of your Majestys colonies be repealed: For by such arrangements as your Majesty's wisdom can form for collecting the united sense of your American people, we are convinced, your Majesty would receive such satisfactory proofs of the disposition of the colonists towards their sovereign and the parent state, that the wished for opportunity would soon be restored to them, of evincing the sincerity of their professions by every testimony of devotion becoming the most dutiful subjects and the most affectionate colonists .
Thatyour Majestymay enjoy a long and prosperous reign, and that your descendants may govern your dominions with honor to themselves and happiness to theirsubjects is our sincere and ferventprayer . ”
On August 13, 1775, Richard Penn, Pennsylvania founder William Penn, and Virginia born lawyer and diplomat, arrived in Bristol, England, carrying Congress’ Olive Branch Petition... which they were to deliver directly to King George III. In a manner of superiority and disgust, the King didn’t "throw the Olive Branch Petition in the trash", he refused to receive the men or even read the petition altogether
Instead, ten days later, on August 23, 1775, King George asserted his authority by issuing the “Proclamation for Suppressing Rebellion and Sedition,” thus establishing the Continental Congress as an illegal body and proclaiming the colonies in a state of rebellion. With the official statement and document from the King, this allowed the King to impose punitive measures on English supporters of the American cause and allowed the military to pursue more aggressive measures against the colonists.
News of these developments reached Congress in the fall (issue #8), which dashed the hopes of Dickinson and others who had wished for reconciliation To others, this only further encouraged the delegates (and eventually all the colonists), to rethink their allegiance to Good ol’ King George III and his crown.
THE GLOVES WERE OFF BUT THE OLIVE BRANCH IS EXTENDED
OKAY, NOW YOU’VE DONE IT AND MADE U.S. MAD
THE CAUSES AND NECESSITY OF TAKING UP ARMS came about because the King totally ignored the Olive Branch Petition, leaving the Patriots no other choice. To the Delegates way of thinking, the thoughts and words of the Petition were respectful and clear:
“Our cause is just. Our union is perfect. Our internal resources are great, and, if necessary, foreign assistance is undoubtedly attainable. We gratefully acknowledge, as signal instances of the Divine favor towards us, that his Providence would not permit us to be called into this severe controversy, until we were grown up to our present strength, had been previously exercised in warlike operation, and possessed of the means of defending ourselves. With hearts fortified with these animating reflections, we most solemnly, before God and the world, declare, that, exerting the utmost energy of those powers, which our beneficent Creator hath graciously bestowed upon us, the arms we have been compelled by our enemies to assume, we will, in defiance of every hazard, with unabating firmness and perseverance employ for the preservation of our liberties; being with one mind resolved to die freemen rather than to live slaves.”...
LOVERS OF PEACE FORCED TO TAKE UP ARMS AGAINST HIS MAJESTY
LOVERS OF PEACE FORCED TO TAKE
UP ARMS AGAINST HIS MAJESTY
“In our own native land, in defence of the freedom that is our birthright, and which we ever enjoyed till the late violation of it for the protection of our property, acquired solely by the honest industry of our fore-fathers and ourselves, against violence actually-offered, we have taken up arms. We shall lay them down when hostilities shall cease on the part of the aggressors, and all danger of their being renewed shall be removed, and not before.
With a humble confidence in the mercies of the supreme and impartial Judge and Ruler of the Universe, we most devoutly implore his divine goodness to protect us happily through this great conflict, to dispose our adversaries to reconciliation on reasonable terms, and thereby to relieve the empire from the calamities of civil war.” - This Declaration was written by Thomas Jefferson and John Dickinson to outline why the Second Continental Congress had finally made the decision to take up arms against the British (With hopes that peace could still be sought).
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"in defense of the Freedom that is our Birthright and which we ever enjoyed until the late Violation of it”
Declaration of the Representatives Second Continental Congress
“We fight not for glory or for conquest...We have taken up arms for the protection of our property...against violence actually offered”
OF PEACE FORCED TO TAKE UP ARMS AGAINST HIS MAJESTY
LOVERS
LOVERS OF PEACE FORCED TO TAKE UP ARMS AGAINST HIS MAJESTY ATB 250 * * 36
A WAR OF WILLS... and words “By George”
"Let us therefore animate and encourage each other, and show the whole world that a Freeman, contending for liberty on his own ground, is superior to any slavish mercenary on earth” George Washington
“Once vigorous measures appear to be the only means left of bringing the Americans to a due submission to the mother country, the colonies will submit” King George III
July 26, 1775
The United States Postal Service, originally called, the Postal system, is celebrating its 250th Birthday
July 26, 2025
As America was sizing up war with Great Britain, in the summer of 1775, the need arose for an independent colonial mail service not controlled by the Crown. Because of his long history with mail service in the colonies, Franklin was an obvious choice. On July 26 1775, the Second Continental Congress established America’s first “Postal System” (as it was called then), and Benjamin Franklin was selected as “America’s First Postmaster General.” Believe it or not, while the Postal System was in operation, stamps were not in use. Here is an impressive short story about our United States Postal Service history along with a bio of Postmaster General Franklin:
The first general issue Postage Stamps were Sold in New York City
On July 1, 1847 - US#1
Postal Service in America - The early years
The Postal service in the American colonies began in the early 1600’s. Mail delivery was handled by independent operator groups in the larger cities and Boston had established its first postal routes in 1639. It wasn’t until 1672 that New York City had its first postal service. In the coming decades, mail routes were established between Boston, New York, and Philadelphia.
Then in 1692, by order of King William III, a patent was awarded to an English nobleman for the collection of tax on postal deliveries of official documents. However, this tax only lasted about a year before it was “stamped out” (pun intended!).
Many years later, in 1753, Franklin was appointed as Deputy Postmaster General of the American Colonies. Franklin officed out of Philadelphia, and because of his skill and expertise, he greatly improved the frequency and reliability of the mail deliveries. It wasn’t until eight years later, in 1761, that the postal service showed a profit for the first time. Under Franklin’s supervision, the Colonial Post Office functioned with profitability for many years.
But as it tends to go with money, that meant the Crown wanted its cut. To get its piece of the pie, Britain “stamped-in” the Stamp Act in 1765. This was the law that imposed a direct tax on British colonies in America. Colonists were required to purchase and use stamped paper for various legal documents, newspapers and other printed materials. The measure was enacted to help Britain recoup its costs during the Seven Years’ War and to help fund the British troops in the colonies. Those accused of violating the Stamp Act could be tried in ViceAdmiralty Courts, with no juries and which were not be held anywhere but the British Empire. None of this sat well with the colonists ...nor with Benjamin Franklin as there began to be distrust with the “Crown Post.”
During this time, Franklin and others provided American colonists with a new option for mail delivery service. The mandatory purchase of stamps to pay taxes was one of the leading causes that lead to a revolt. Ben Franklin’s contrary views on Britain’s tax plans, along with his actions and allegiance to the colonies, did not sit well with the British officials. This all gave way to him being fired from his post and relieved from office - But not for long...
As tensions flared and battles ensued, in late 1774 and early 1775, so did the need arise for an independent “American Colonies” mail servicefree from control and involvement by the Crown.
With his long mail service history and experience throughout the colonies, Franklin was the right man for the job. On July 26, 1775, the Second Continental Congress, not only established America’s first postal system but it appointed Benjamin Franklin as “America’s” first Postmaster General.
Back into office walks the respected and appreciated, American Patriot - Benjamin Franklin - Postmaster General Franklin!
When he was made America’s first Postmaster General, Franklin continued to revolutionize mail service throughout the colonies. Routes were established between Florida and Maine, as well as regular service to and from Britain. Franklin even arranged overnight postal travel between New York and Philadelphia. Not only that: Franklin also established standardized postage rates based upon weight and distance, that would become a standard to go by.
Keep in mind, Postmaster General Franklin only held this office for a little over a year - as his talents were needed elsewhere. Does a modern day, someone like Ben, come to mind.
It’s impressive to note that Franklin’s other contributions were HUGE and TREMENDOUS as well! As America and its early years rolled along, so did Franklin’s many other offerings to the fledgling nation. Franklin founded the first subscription library in the American Colonies; organized Philadelphia’s city’s fire department; implemented law enforcement reform; and was the leading force behind clean and well-lit “paved” public streets. He also founded the school that became the University of Pennsylvania. Additionally, he raised the money necessary to build Pennsylvania’s Hospital.
Way to go, Ben! We need more men & women like you today - “Awesome American Citizens!”
It’s pretty-great to note that Benjamin Franklin’s efforts and accomplishments as Postmaster General earned him the honor of being pictured on America’s first postage stamp, as well as USPS’s 250th Anniversary stamp which grace the deliveries that keep on coming.
250 Years of Delivering, is a pane of 20 stamps by cartoonist Chris Ware, that invites the public to spot a fun array of familiar postal items and icons while following a mail carrier on their rounds through four seasons of the year. Both the prestige booklet which includes the Ben Franklin Stamp and the 250 Years of Delivering pane are scheduled to be released this July.
The Pursuit of Happiness
To the Patriots who wrote "the pursuit of happiness" into the Declaration of Independence, these words meaning were linked to virtue. Living a virtuous life and contributing to the well-being of society was the measure the Founders believed brought about happiness - not simply pleasure. “Virtue” referred to prioritizing the common good over personal interests - “Civic Virtue.” This meant there was a common willingness and shared interest to watch out for each other. This order of virtue was felt essential for maintaining a republic. Going back to the classical philosophy developed by the ancient Greeks. Aristotle and Plato (who the founders studied), emphasized development of moral character and living a life of excellenceTheir “Secret to Life” and happiness NO CHARGE!
This Classical philosophy focused on cultivating virtues like wisdom, courage, temperance, and justice - all seen as essential for both individual flourishment and a well-ordered society. Thus, Virtue was the building-block thought of the Declaration and the ideal of the Constitution.
Rather than just being based on morality, the Founders grafted in a broader sense of commitment to the well-being of the community. According to John Adams though, "Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.”
Intended to be a public declaration of the colonies' reasons for separating from British rule, The Declaration of Independence was written for the world and for the American colonists themselves...to be virtuous people. This was also an appeal to a "decent respect to the opinions of mankind". It was a beautiful expression of the common sentiments of the American colonists and eloquently justified their declaration to the world and to themselves, that Liberty was a true virtue.
“Liberty without Virtue would be no blessing to U.S.” Benjamin Rush
“Let
virtue, honor, the love of liberty, be the soul of this constitution, and it will become the source of great and extensive happiness to this and future generations. Vice, ignorance, and want of vigilance, will be the only enemies able to destroy it”
- John Jay (Founding Father)
“A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a bowl of silver” - Proverbs 25:11
OH, REALLY? Time to get back to Reality!
Below are quotes from British officials, who, in their disgust of the Declaration of Independence and the Patriots who wrote it, wanted to make their response known:
”But to say that a man with life hath a right to be a man with life, is so purely American, that I believe the texture of no other brain upon the face of the earth will admit the idea”
“The writers of the Declaration were ignorant to the meaning of words, particularly the statement that all men have an unalienable right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness”
“These gentlemen ‘assume to themselves an unalienable right of talking nonsense’”
The Declaration of Independence is the most harmless piece of parchment that ever was sent forth into the world”
“If a good bleeding can bring those Bible faced Yankees to their senses, the fever of Independency should soon abate”
To report the events and occurrences in the colonies, Colonial and worldwide newspapers relied on letters and correspondence from those living in America. The Scots Magazine (the oldest magazine in the world), printed a series of letters from people in New York, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey about the reading the Declaration of Independence in public. The first letter was written on July 4, 1776. It explained the ceremony when Congress declared America independent:
‘The 4th of July 1776...the Americans appointed as a Day ofFasting andPrayer,preparatory to their dedicating their Country to God, which was done in the following manner: The Congress being assembled, after having declared America independent, they had a Crown placed on a Bible, which by Prayers and solemn devotion they offered to God. This religious ceremony being ended, they divided the crown into thirteen parts, each of the United Provincestakingapart. ”
As the elites of the world scoffed then, could it quite possibly be, the time today, for “All Americans” to recollect the thoughts and actions of our Forefathers, and bring the ideals of Virtue (which they fought and died for), all back to reality? Virtue All Back To Reality - Who’s in?
Here’s the chance to ink your thoughts and make your opinion known:
WHY I LOVE AMERICA
Why I Love Her
John Wayne
“America, America, God shed His grace on thee..”
You ask me why I love her?
Well, give me time and I’ll explain:
Have you seen a Kansas sunset or an Arizona rain? Have you drifted on a bayou down Louisiana way? Have you watched the cold fog drifting over San Francisco Bay?
Have you heard a bobwhite calling in the Carolina pines? Or heard the bellow of a diesel at the Appalachia mines? Does the call of the Niagara trill you when you hear her water roar?
Do you look with awe and wonder at her Massachusetts shore ... Where men, who braved a hard new world, first stepped on Plymouth’s rock? And do you think of them when you stroll along a New York dock?
Have you seen a snowflake drifting in the Rockies...way up high? Have you seen the sun come blazing down from a bright Nevada’s sky? Do you hail to the Columbia as she rushes to the sea ... Or bow you head at Gettysburg...at our struggle to be free?
Have you seen the mighty Titans? ... Have you watched an eagle soar? Have you seen the Mississippi roll along the Missouri’s shore? Have you felt a chill at Michigan, when on a winter’s day, Her waters rage along the shore in thunderous display?
Does the word “Aloha”... make you warm?
Do you share in disbelief, when you see the surf come roaring in at Waimea Reef?
From Alaska’s cold to the Everglades ... From the Rio Grande to Maine ... My heart cries out ... my pulse
runs fast at the might of her domain.
You ask me why I love her? ... I’ve a million reasons why. My beautiful America ... beneath God’s wide, wide sky. “And crown they good with brotherhood
From sea to shining sea ”
A 1775 Gift - Regifted For U.S. Today
America - If truth be told, have you ever thought much about or given interest in: the Gift of Piety?
“Piety?”, you ask. “Isn’t that some pompous, “goodie-goodie” thing?”...“A gift for America, whatever do you mean?” And...”Is this even a gift America needs or wants?”
Well, yes, it is ... and Yes, America does - At least in 1775 it did. Hopefully, in thinking about the world events of today, all of U.S. will recognize the need for (now as much as ever), and the benefits of this gift of Piety.
Possibly, America will learn some good lessons from the past as a means of seeking and making good decisions for the problems we Americans face today.
In a few words, Piety is the quality of reverence for something bigger than U.S. (ourselves). With a sense of and respectfulness towards the Creator, Piety will give U.S. the recognition of (and reliance upon), the Almighty to help properly guide our way, in the myriad of problems we face all throughout the United States today.
Yes, America greatly needs this gift.
In early-mid 1775, The American Colonies conflict with Great Britain was quickly escalating and the Colonies were having to prepare for the eventuality of war. As you have read earlier, the leaders of the Second Continental Congress were being forced into making some tough decisions and there was not yet mutual and unanimous agreement on the course of action to take. Throughout the extremely difficult decisionmaking process, the delegates were not indifferent to spiritual matters, and in fact, as a means of uniteing the colonies during this time of crisis and division, the clarion call was made to seek divine guidance in dealing with the conflict with Great Britain. Journals of the Continental Congress show that the selection committee was tasked with the duty to compose a proclamation for ”A day of humiliation, fasting and prayer for the united colonies”:
“WEDNESDAY, JUNE 7, 1775: On motion, Resolved, that Thursday the 20th of July next, be observed throughout the twelve United Colonies(Georgia representatives were not yet present), as a day of humiliation, fasting and prayer: and that Mr. William Hooper, Mr. John Adams, and Mr. Robert Treat Paine, be a committee to bring in a resolve for that purpose.”
“I am persuaded, you will permit me to observe, that the path of true piety is so plain as to require but little political direction” George Washington
Smart decision to start there - And smart proclamation, which a week later followed:
“MONDAY, JUNE 12, 1775 - The committee, appointed for preparing a resolve for a fast, being read, was World, by his Providence, not only nature with rectitude, but of men to purposes of his it being, at duty devoutly superintending times of calamity, to immutable justice his merciful This Congress, present critical, state of these recommend that July next, be of all the continent, as a day and prayer; and voices, deplore our many supplications to
THE GIFT OF PIEY FOR AMERICA
the all Disposer him to present desolating threatened, sovereign, and[to]inspire and pursue subjects, the civil the American effusion may that belong hid from be ever kind Providence, their interests descend and people, conventions, wise and the union, privileges true throughout may soon of Heaven, grievances,
"IT IS IN THE MAN OF PIETY AND INWARD PRINCIPLE, THAT WE MAY EXPECT TO FIND THE UNCORRUPTED PATRIOT, THE USEFUL CITIZEN, AND THE INVINCIBLE SOLDIER. GOD GRANT THAT IN AMERICA TRUE RELIGION AND CIVIL LIBERTY MAY BE INSEPARABLE AND THAT THE UNJUST ATTEMPTS TO DESTROY THE ONE, MAY IN THE ISSUE TEND TO THE SUPPORT AND ESTABLISHMENT OF BOTH.”
Thomas Jefferson
“Saving Liberty” - Howard King
THE GIFT OF PIETY FOR AMERICA
A
GIFT O PIETY FOR AMERICA
“We have appointed a Continental fast. Millions will be upon their knees at once before their great Creator, imploring His forgiveness and blessing; His smiles on American Council and arms” John Adams
Calling “All Americans” throughout the land
MEN & WOMEN BOYS & GIRLS IT’S TIME TO GET PREPARED... AMERICA NEEDS YOU !
As of July 4th, we as a Nation, have one year (365 days), until the greatest celebration in all the world, takes place. You don’t want to miss it! And you don’t want to miss out on preparation
TO YOUR FEET IT’S TIME TO GET MOVING !
Awesome American Citizens: Imagine Benjamin Franklin, himself, speaking directly to you with these words:
“Remain committed to advancing useful knowledge for “the benefit of Mankind in General”
”There is no Rank in Natural Knowledge of equal Dignity and Importance with that of being a Good Neighbour, or Friend, a Good Subject or Citizen”
Benjamin Franklin
From its inaugural issue, one-year (5 issues) ago, America The Beautiful 250, set out on a journey to promote “Awesome American Citizenship,” with great literature and beautiful art. The goal was and still is to help the USA - “All Americans” - become:
“THE BEST U.S. WE CAN BE”
To help all of U.S. succeed in, a Big Beautiful Way the idea of came about...And we want you on the TEAM!
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"The time is now near at hand”
George Washington “What a glorious morning for America!”
Samuel Adams
Grasp the time at hand and be sure to make each glorious new morning leading up to the fabulous:
America The Beautiful 250 - July 4th, 2026one year (365-days), from now , ones that you, your family, and community will look back on with great joy - knowing that you joined the greatest team in the world - with the greatest mission of restoring America and becoming “THE BEST U.S. WE CAN BE”
From America the Beautiful 250 - Issue #1 - Sep/Oct 2024
We believe TEAM USA 250 could very well be the spark that ignites the thrill of Patriotism throughout the country. There is no greater endeavor to ask “ALL AMERICANS” to get behind. This opportunity provides “WE THE PEOPLE” and the wonderful “ALL AMERICANS” throughout the USA, to participate in an absolutely, remarkable and historic “thrill of victory” ... that all of U.S. get to embrace in the quest to RESTORE AMERICA.
WANTEDPLEASE SPREAD THE WORD
In the “Spirit of ’76” and “The Spirit of ’26” - America’s 250th Birthday
