Letter from the editor
There are certain moments in history that bring generations together. America’s Bicentennial in 1976 was one of those moments. I remember it well.
As an 8-year-old student, I was chosen to play the Statue of Liberty in my school play. It sounded like an important role, and the best part was I didn’t have any lines to memorize. Holding that torch high above my head was not easy though. It felt like forever and by the end of the performance, my arm was aching. Still, I was proud to be part of something special.
The excitement surrounding America’s 200th birthday was impossible to miss. The U.S. Mint released special Bicentennial quarters. My friends and I collected them as treasured keepsakes. Stores were filled with red, white and blue merchandise. “Spirit of ’76” shirts, coffee mugs, posters and patriotic decorations seemed to be everywhere.
There were neighborhood block parties, hometown parades, historical pageants, reenactments and of course, school performances. Families proudly displayed their flags. Children dressed as Betsy Ross, George Washington and other figures from our nation’s founding.
Now, 50 years later, I can feel that same excitement building as our nation prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday. While driving around, I see more and more American flags waving proudly from porches, businesses and front yards. Plans are set for festivals, parades, fireworks displays and other commemorative events.
During the Bicentennial in 1976, America was emerging from a difficult period marked by the Vietnam War and the Watergate scandal. Many people felt discouraged and divided. Yet the Bicentennial sparked something remarkable. It reminded us of our shared history and common values. For a moment, patriotism, civic pride and optimism took center stage.
Just like then, today America faces its share of challenges. There are foreign conflicts, inflation concerns and major political divisions. Yet milestones such as this remind us that we are all part of a larger story — one that began two and a half centuries ago.
For this moment in time, we come together, united as Americans. Whether it’s attending a parade, gathering with family, visiting a historic site or simply watching fireworks light up the summer sky, each of us will remember this occasion.
This edition marks the first of two special Shore Local issues dedicated to America’s 250th birthday. Throughout these pages, you’ll find stories, events and local perspectives highlighting this extraordinary milestone.
We know this year is especially meaningful so make your plans early. Gather your family and friends to celebrate and take a moment to appreciate being part of the United States Semiquincentennial.
Peace & Love, Cindy
