Happy Semiquincentennial, America!

It's America's 250th birthday! Here are 250 reasons to celebrate this land of the free and the brave. Lets hear a round of thunderous applause for Americas 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 weve come in just 250 years! Weve added 37 states and there are currently 130 times as many Americans as there was in 1776. Population growth is good, right? Weve 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 youre a progressive, a conservative, or refuse to be labeled, we invite you to celebrate Americas 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.