HOLIDAY BLESSINGS Nov-Dec AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL 250 - First Independent Thanksgiving by Omaha Magazine

The American Scroll

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AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL 250 is not a magazine to quickly to be browsed through and then thrown in the trash or hidden on the shelf. It’s a magazine with a mission to inspire America, and one to be shared with all. The magazine has been designed and produced to be proudly displayed and thoroughly read.

Please keep in handy and reference it often to reflected upon the stories within. It’s meant to challenge; to coach; to cheer; to uplift; and lead “All Americans” to aspire to greatness and “Awesome American Citizenship.” This was the Call of President Kennedy in his runup to the election in 1960 - with his slogan: A Time for Greatness. In 1980, when a fractured Nation doubted itself, the great optimist and communicator, Ronald Reagan, gave the country something to believe in again with his slogan, Let’s Make America Great Again. Today, Donald Trump has shortened the phrase by a word and brilliantly trademarked the name: Make America Great Again. It has once again inspired a positive and hopeful vision, that has already (before him even taking office), reignited a new vigor to set U.S. on the course for our Nations – “America the Beautiful 25o” Birthday.

What AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL 250 and TEAM USA250 wish to accomplish is to set

the politics aside and become a bridge to “We the People” – so that America can have it become, 300,000,000 Citizens joining in with a change for good, rather than it being a vote for one man to fix the broken Nation himself.

You read a quote on a previous page that, “We have it in our power to begin the world over again.” The Question is, “What kind of world do we want to make it?” One renowned man left us with a clue: “Do not conform yourself to the world but be transformed by the renewal of your mind.” We trust the collective mindset of TEAM USA250 “All Americans” all around the country, will be a desire for, all that is good. This will take work from U.S. all to help correct the problems & develop capacities that will effectively meet the challenges and needs we all face. Thank you, America.. We can do it!

CALLING “ALL AMERICANS”

Enjoy the Magazine beginning next page...

Thanks for your support and for sharing with all

“THE BEST U.S. WE CAN BE”

FRIENDS, PATRIOTS, COUNTRYMEN LEND ME YOUR EARS...VIRTUE ALL BACK TO REALITY

“Make America Good Again”

“A Discourse on the Love of Our Country”

250th Anniversary Proclamation THE FIRST INDEPENDENT THANKSGIVING -1774

“No Tea This Christmas” A Pre (Modern) Day American Holiday Tale

Excerpts from: Alexander Hamilton’s "A Full Vindication of the Measures of the Congress” New York - December 15th, 1774

“Friends and Countrymen, All I ask is, that you will judge for yourselves. I don’t desire you to take my opinion or any man’s opinion, as the guide of your actions. I have stated a number, of plain arguments; I have supported them with several well-known facts: It is your business to draw a conclusion and act accordingly. I caution you, again and again, to beware of the men who advise you to forsake the plain path, marked out for you by the congress. They only mean to deceive and betray you. Our representatives in general assembly cannot take any wiser or better course to settle our differences, than our representatives in the continental congress have taken. If you join with the rest of America in the same common measure, you will be sure to preserve your liberties inviolate; but if you separate from them, and seek for redress alone, and unseconded, you will certainly fall a prey to your enemies and repent your folly as long as you live.

May God give you wisdom to see what is your true interest and inspire you with becoming zeal for the cause of virtue and mankind. A Friend to America”

THE STAGE IS SET - READ ON AMERICA & ENJOY!

PIKES PEAK - “AMERICA’S MOUNTAIN” - Colorado Springs, Colorado - USA

The spot of inspiration in 1893, For the Nation’s Song: America the Beautiful - Released July 4th, 1895 And source of inspiration for the Nation’s Beautiful New Patriotic USA 250th Birthday Magazine: AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL 250

O beautiful for pilgrim feet, Whose stern impassioned stress, A thoroughfare for freedom beat, Across the wilderness! America! America! God mend thine every flaw, Confirm thy soul in self-control, Thy liberty in law!

“Notes

to Oneself “ WORDS & THOUGHTS THAT INSPIRE -

thoughts

A Historic Journal of your journey to the future And

upon reading...AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL 250

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.

THE BOUNTY OF AMERICA THE BOUNTY OF AMERICA

The Bounty of America is obvious to all the world and yet, right here at home, we often overlook the gifts bestowed upon U.S. - taking her for granted and allowing ourselves and others to treat her with great disregard and folly. This ought not be so, and here is where we can learn a bit of knowledge from the wise men and women of the past to help us overcome the mistake of not recognizing and appreciating what lies right before our very eyes and how to best protect, revere, and enjoy AMERICA.

As AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL 250 journeys back 250 years ago to the infancy of the Nation, in the months of November and December of 1774, you will be startled to learn that back then (similar, to today), much was being fought for to protect her and her way of life, as well as that of her posterity - all of us living in the United States today. How truly grateful we all should be.

Such great foresight was given then, that should be emulated by us today, in how we behave and what we plan to leave our posterity. The best life (in the best sense of the word), should not only be the dream, but also the daily goal to help Restore America - to the grandeur she can be.

As the Nation has just voted with a resounding voice to get America dressed up for the occasion of her(our) 250th Birthday, this issue will provide great insight into how best that can be achieved,

and how we can all have a cherished part in the wonderful celebration - along with the true enjoyment of life and each of our futures.

As the First Continental Congress did then (after collectively saying, ENOUGH), with there very first action being a proclamation for a Day of Thanksgiving to the Almighty, so too will we as a Nation soon get to do...Thanksgiving is upon U.S.

Then came the hard-work and difficult but necessary assessment to set things right, where EVERYONE would chip in. Theirs was a Unified Vote for Freedom, along with a reverberating statement that they were tolerating NO MORE of the ill-fated, foul and abusive treatment of their beloved America. Their voices sang loud with a chorus of “Love for Country”; a vote for a beautiful and decent future; a vindication of the work of the elected representatives who would set the new course for independence; and a true camaraderie amongst fellow “ALL AMERICANS”

The call was to greatness then - a greatness ALL should aspire to today. In this pursuit, we should all reflect on a statement attributed to Alexis de Tocqueville, who upon visiting America in 1831 stated, “America is great because she is good, and if America ever ceases to be good, she will cease to be great.” Please join with AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL 250 to resoundingly proclaim: Let’s “Make America Good Again!”

“Our Consolation must be this, my dear, that Cities may be rebuilt, and a People reduced to Poverty, may acquire fresh Property: But a Constitution of Government once changed from Freedom, can never be restored. Liberty once lost is lost forever...”

- John Adams

I sought for the greatness and genius of America in her commodious harbors and her ample rivers and it was not there in her fertile fields and boundless forests and it was not there in her rich mines and her vast world commerce and it was not there in her democratic Congress and her matchless Constitution and it was not there Not until I went into the churches of America and heard her pulpits flame with righteousness, did understand the secret of her genius and power America is great because she is good, and if America ever ceases to be good, she will cease to be great.

Alexis de Tocqueville

“AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL 250”

We Are Blessed America... Please share the magazine with everyone, far and wide!

"

The Announcement of The First Legislative Body Created

by the People In the American

Revolution Called For

“FREEDOM”

The First Continental Congress first met in Philadelphia on September 5, 1774, with delegates from all 13 colonies, except Georgia. On the 20th of October Congress adopted the Articles of Association, which stated that if the Intolerable Acts were not repealed by December 1, 1774, a boycott of British goods would begin in all the colonies. Additionally, The Articles of Association outlined plans for a boycott on all exports if the Intolerable Acts were not repealed before September 10, 1775.

“To obtain Redress of these Grievances, which threaten Destruction to the Lives, Liberty, and Property, of his Majesty’s Subjects in North America, we are of Opinion that a Non-importation, Nonconsumption, and Non-exportation Agreement, faithfully adhered to, will prove the most speedy, effectual, and peaceable Measure; and therefore, we do, for ourselves and the Inhabitants of the several Colonies whom we represent, firmly agree a

and associate, under the sacred Ties of Virtue, Honour, and Love of our Country, as follows:

First. That from and after the first Day of December next we will not import into British America, from Great Britain or Ireland, any Goods, Wares, or Merchandise whatsoever, or from any other Place, any such Goods, Wares, or Merchandise, as shall have been exported from Great Britain or Ireland; nor will we, after that Day, import any East India Tea from any Part of the World, nor any Molosses, Syrups, Paneles, Coffee, or Pimenta, from the British Plantations, or from Dominica, nor Wines from Madeira, or the Western Islands, nor foreign Indigo”...

“The foregoing Association being determined upon by the Congress, was ordered to be subscribed by the several Members thereof; and thereupon, we have hereunto set our respective Names accordingly”.

And with that, the cause for Liberty was set!

Digital Collections

The Distinctions between Virginians, Pennsylvanians, New Yorkers and New Englanders, are no more. I am not a Virginian, but an American.

- Patrick Henry

A Nation Is Born - In Prayer

The first proclamation of the independent America Legislature of the Revolution was for the 1st Independent Thanksgiving Day.

Proudly printed as broadsides, it was sent to be posted in every town and village and all the religious assemblies in the provinces. The proclamation and that upcoming, December 15th Thanksgiving day, were enthusiastically received. From hereafter, no longer would American Thanksgiving Day proclamations end with “God Save the King,

On that special day, the businesses of the Province shut down. General Gage bitterly reported, “Their edicts are implicitly obeyed”, The Boston Gazette reported, “two or three embittered persons of the most insignificant and contemptuous of Sects” opened their shops, but even some British soldiers had chided them for insulting their countrymen.”

For nine years, since the time of the Stamp Tax, Britain and her American colonies had been struggling in a cold war, and the teapot (as it were), was boiling over all throughout the Colonies. This Christmas - 1774, there would be no tea at all. And this is how hot Chocolate would become popular in America. In memory, have a sip of cocoa with a prayer.

Patrick Henry - New York Public Library

Alexander Hamilton Defends Actions of First Continental Congress

“I shall now examine the principal measures of the congress, and vindicate them fully from the charge of injustice or impolicy.”

Excerpts from Alexander Hamilton’s “A Full Vindication of the Measures of Congress”

“Friends and Countrymen”,

“It was hardly to be expected that any man could be so presumptuous, as openly to controvert the equity, wisdom, and authority of the measures, adopted by the congress: an assembly truly respectable on every account! Whether we consider the characters of the men, who composed it; the number, and dignity of their constituents, or the important ends for which they were appointed. But however improbable such a degree of presumption might have seemed, we find there are some, in whom it exists. Attempts are daily making to diminish the influence of their decisions, and prevent the salutary effects, intended by them. The impotence of such insidious efforts is evident from the

general indignation they are treated with; so that no material ill-consequences can be dreaded from them. But lest they should have a tendency to mislead, and prejudice the minds of a few; it cannot be deemed altogether useless to bestow some notice upon them”...“That Americans are intitled to freedom, is incontestible upon every rational principle. All men have one common original: they participate in one common nature and consequently have one common right. No reason can be assigned why one man should exercise any power, or pre-eminence over his fellow creatures more than another; unless they have voluntarily vested him with it. Since then, Americans have not by any act of their’s impowered the British Parliament to make laws for them, it follows they can have no just authority to do it.”

“The design of electing members to represent us in general congress, was, that the wisdom of America might be collected in devising the most proper and expedient means to repel this atrocious invasion of our rights. It has been accordingly done. Their decrees are binding upon all and demand a religious observance.”

“We did not, especially in this province, circumscribe them by any fixed boundary, and therefore as they cannot be said to have exceeded the limits of their authority, their act must be esteemed the act of their constituents. If it should be objected, that they have not answered the end of their election; but have fallen upon an improper and ruinous mode of proceeding: I reply, by asking, Who shall be the judge? Shall any individual oppose his private sentiment to the united counsels of men, in whom America has reposed so high a confidence? The attempt must argue no small degree of arrogance and self-sufficiency.”

“Yet this attempt has been made, and it is become in some measure necessary to vindicate the conduct of this venerable assembly from the aspersions of men, who are their adversaries, only because they are foes to America...When the political salvation of any community is depending, it is incumbent upon

those who are set up as its guardians, to embrace such measures, as have justice, vigour, and a probabilty of success to recommend them: If instead of this, they take those methods which are in themselves feeble, and little likely to succeed; and may, through a defect in vigour, involve the community in still greater danger; they may be justly considered as its betrayers. It is not enough in times of eminent peril to use only possible means of preservation: Justice and sound policy dictate the use of probable means”...

“A little consideration will convince us, that the congress instead of having “ignorantly misunderstood, carelessly neglected, or basely betrayed the interests of the colonies,” have, on the contrary, devised and recommended the only effectual means to secure the freedom, and establish the future prosperity of America upon a solid basis. If we are not free and happy hereafter, it must proceed from the want of integrity and resolution, in executing what they have concerted; not from the temerity or impolicy of their determinations...”

“The Premier has advanced too far to recede with safety: He is deeply interested to execute his purpose, if possible: we know he has

Map of 13 Colonies in 1774 and Tea Parties that took place

Population of America in 1774 Approximately 3,000,000

The Seventeen Tea Parties which occurred in 1773 1774

(1) December 3, 1773 Charleston, South Carolina Tea Party

(2) December 12, 1773 Lexington, Massachusetts Tea Party

(3) December 16, 1773 Boston, Massachusetts (Boston Tea Party_

(4) December 18?, 1773 Philadelphia’s (non violent) Tea Party

(5) December 31, 1773 Provincetown, Massachusetts Tea Party

(6) January 1774 Princeton, New Jersey Tea Party

(7) April 22, 1774 Sandy Hook, New Jersey/New York Tea Party

(8) April 26, 1774 New York Tea Party

(9) May 6, 1774 - Boston, Massachusetts (Second Boston Tea Party)

(10) May 13,1774 Chestertown, Maryland Tea Party

(11) July ? 1774 - Charleston, South Carolina (Second Charleston Tea Party)

(12) September 15, 1774 - York, Maine (still part of Massachusetts) Tea Party

(13) October 19, 1774 Annapolis, Maryland Tea Party

(14) October 25, 1774 Edenton, North Carolina (Second Tea Party led by women)

(15) November 3, 1774 Charleston, South Carolina (Third Tea Party)

(16) November 7, 1774 Yorktown, Virginia Tea Party

(17) December 22 Greenwich, New Jersey The Last Tea Party

The last of the Seventeen Tea Parties occurred on December 22, 1774

The term ‘Tea Party’ was not used at the time in the 1770’s

The first use was around the 50th Anniversary of the American Revolution in 1826, when the young, USA reflected-back with nostalgia on the events which led-up to the war with and Independence from England in 1776.

December 16, 2023, marked the 250th anniversary of the famous Boston Tea Party

Sidney E King “Yorktown Tea Party” John D. Rockefeller Jr. Library, Colonial Williamsburg Foundation

The second Tea Party in North Carolina was a protest of a group of 52 women, from the coastal town of Edenton. There was no seizure or destruction of tea, however the leader, Penelope Barker and the ladies signed a statement affirming their resistance to the tea and taxes. Mrs. Baker sent a letter to a London newspaper to be printed, but was only ridiculed, especially because it was on behalf of women (see below)

“The Provincial Deputies of North Carolina, having resolved not to drink any more tea, nor wear any more British cloth, many ladies of this province have determined to give memorable proof of their patriotism, and have accordingly entered into the following honourable and spirited association. I send it to you to shew your fair countrywomen, how zealously and faithfully, American ladies follow the laudable example of their husbands, and what opposition your matchless Ministers may expect to receive from a people thus firmly united against them.”

- Penelope Barker (North Carolina)

Political resistance was common in the early 1770’s, however an outspoken and organized women’s movement certainly was not. Therefore, “The Edenton Tea Party Gals” known as the Provincial Deputies of North Carolina, making the protest, stunned the Western World in Europe (and probably the colonies for that matter). News of the Edenton Tea Party quickly reached Britain. In January 1775, Arthur Iredell in England, wrote to his brother, James, to tell him of England’s reaction to the Edenton Tea Party. In his description, he stated that the incident was not taken seriously because it was led by women. “The only security on our side…is the probability that there are but few places in America which possess so much female artillery as Edenton.” The tow of EDENTON, NC Regularly celebrates this event and the women of the American Revolution

The Provincial Deputies of North Carolina, was amongst the earliest organized women’s political groups in United States history.

"A Society of Patriotic Ladies, at Edenton in North Carolina"Published March 25, 1775, London printers R. Sayer & J. Bennett (engraver and political satirist Phillip Dawe).

“The wise and benevolent Author of nature made the human-race capable of continual advances towards a state of perfection and happiness. The religious institutions which God has appointed among mankind, are evidently designed, and adapted to promote this end. Human wisdom has aimed at this by the various methods of education, instruction, laws, and government.

To a virtuous mind, nothing can yield a more rational or benevolent pleasure, than to see this great design taking place, in the increase and progress of human happiness. To all the friends of mankind, such views and prospects prove one of their chief joys.

This same benevolence that leads us to rejoice in human happiness, also makes us feel for mankind on the approach of adversities and sufferings - feelings which become strong and painful, in proportion to the degree and extent of the miseries and calamities our fellow men experience...

God’s Infinite wisdom had seen fit to put His own people under a more excellent constitution of government, than any other nation has ever had - where He was their King. And they might have been long happy under a government in which the Ruler of the world condescended himself to execute

the office of Chief-Magistrate. But theirs was impiety and folly. In many instances they greatly abused and perverted the privileges they were favored with. As the just punishment of their sin and folly, God gave them up to the power of their enemies.

From liberty, peace, and plenty, in their own land - they were carried away to endure all the miseries of subjection and slavery in a kingdom where - no other law or liberty was known to them, except the arbitrary will of a proud cruel, despotic monarch. The idea of their former happy days was constantly returning to their mind, “If I should ever cease to remember and love her...for in her, welfare and prosperity, my chief joy and pleasure lies”.

“Amidst all their gloomy prospects, the interest and welfare of their country lay nearest to their hearts. With a beauty, force, and energy, that nothing but this noble patriotic passion could inspire, the author in the psalm - in the language of his own feelings thus expressed the love, regard, and attachment, they all bore for her.

Surely, if mankind accepts that there is Love of God, then along with that, no nobler principle has ever entered the heart of man and the character of a benevolent mind than

to love our families, our friends, and our neighbors. But how much more extensive and worthy of praise, is that benevolence than reaching out to all mankind, Love to our country presupposes that there is a proper community or public society formed. Were there no other associations among mankind, but lawless, desperate, and designing men – joined together for the purposes of fraud, rapine, and oppression; such an assembly would not be a society, which would deserve our regard. Rather it should be deemed a body injurious to the interests of mankind, which as the friends of human happiness, we must wish dissolved and broken in pieces.

We must therefore first suppose, a real and proper community, or state of civil society, to have taken place. Combining together in some form of society, for the purposes of mutual benefit, protection, and defense, people early on found it necessity to form themselves into a social state. Recognizing the many dangers to which people are exposed, and against which no defense can be made without more power and strength than their own, it’s easily understood that there are many difficulties against which people cannot guard without the council, wisdom, and help of others.”

“A free government”, which of all others is far the most preferable, cannot be supported without Virtue. This Virtue is: The Love of our country!

- Samuel Williams

“People also soon found the necessity of some general rules and measures to regulate and govern their conduct towards each other. This unavoidably led them to form laws and rules of action which also carried the necessary consequence of appointing some to oversee that these laws and rules were duly observed. Hence, government and order arose... ”

“A state of society will necessarily bring in some constitution and form of government, some general plan and system of laws; which on the one hand, will point out the office and power of rulers; and on the other, the privileges and duty of subjects. Every such society will also have some general dominions to be defended; wants, to be provided for; interests, to be promoted; and dangers, to be guarded against. And that which can alone constitute the security, defense, and protection of every part; is the common wisdom, strength, and safety of the whole...”

“And to this society we are joined, by many and strong connections. To love our friends, to love our neighbours, is the character of a benevolent mind: But how much more extensive and worthy of praise, is that benevolence that reaching out to all mankind, takes in and embraces her country in the most strong and affectionate manner...

“If therefore, my brethren, you have any value for your own interest, any feeling for the love of your country, or any regard for the generations that are to come; if you are Americans any more than by name, if you have the spirit, or desire to have the privileges of Freemen, you must now vigorously exert yourselves in this way, for the interest and welfare of your country”

- Samuel Williams

Samuel Williams by Washington Allston Cleveland Museum of Art,

“Neither the wisest constitution nor the wisest laws will secure the liberty and happiness of a people whose manners are universally corrupt.”

- Samuel Adams

From this, we may collect what is the nature and ground of Love to our country. The great community of which we are a part, is such a body politic, or well-regulated society. Joined to our country by such numerous, extensive, and lasting ties, she becomes the object of our attention, veneration, reverence, and regard. And that regard or affection which is our duty to her, extends to all her interests and connections: It takes in her dominions, her religious interests, her constitution, her laws, her liberties, her people, and her happiness. In a word, it takes in her general and particular interests, welfare, and good. By the Love of our country then, we are to understand a regard and affection to the common good; to the interest and welfare of that community, or body politic, of which we are a part…

- Samuel Williams

"A nobler principle never entered the heart of man...As society is combined, together for the purposes of mutual benefit and advantage, the common good of the whole, greatly depends on individuals being subject to the laws of their country and faithfully performing the business and duties of their station. This only makes them good members of society...A state of society constituted by common reason, and formed on the plan of a common interest, is one of the most necessary and useful regulations that ever took place among mankind...”

“A free government, which of all others is far the most preferable, cannot be supported without Virtue. This virtue is the Love of our country...Other principles of political obedience if they are unconnected with this, will in a course of time, jointly operate to destroy virtue, and to produce universal vice and oppression...”

“But Virtue, like gravitation, will ever draw towards the common centre. And so long as this can be kept up, the rulers and the people, by its influence, will be kept in that place, and move in that course, which the laws of their country have assigned to them. And this is the only way to have the state prosperous, and the members good subjects of it... ” To help bring about virtue in our country, Religion is a

cannot but greatly endear our country to us...When it inspires men with reverence to the Deity, and with benevolence to each other, it proves one of the main pillars and springs of a free and equal government...It is therefore of the greatest importance to societies, that their religion... promote their peace, order, comfort, and happiness...”

“Towards the Deity, religion enjoins love, reverence, and veneration: Towards men, it teaches righteousness, justice, benevolence, and every social virtue. Towards rulers, it requires respect, submission, and obedience, so long as they continue the ministers of God for the public good. Nothing can be better adapted than such a religion to give life, energy, and force, to all useful civil institutions and regulations...”

“A free government”, which of all others is far the most preferable, cannot be supported without Virtue. This Virtue is: The Love of our country!

- Samuel Williams

“Next to religion, the most important concern to mankind, is to have a wise and good civil Government established among them: It gave to the people here a share in their own government; and put us in the happy situation of being ruled by laws, to which we had consented, by representatives chosen from among ourselves and put us in the happy situation of being ruled by laws, to which we had consented, by representatives chosen from among ourselves. We found its happy effects...in a settled peace, quietness, and good order, among ourselves…SUCH has been the spirit and tendency of our civil government... ”

”To these great blessings of religion and government we may add that of Freedom or Liberty, as another that must also lead us to love this our native country. In a state of nature all men are equal and free.

“To our own country then we must look for the biggest part of that liberty and freedom, that yet remains, or is to be expected, among mankind. And such has been our constitution and form of government, that till of late, she seemed to be deeply rooted, and firmly fixed here. The foundation was laid for it, by preserving to the colonies that first and fundamental right, a share in their own legislative council...”

MacKerr Associates Inc. and its president Kathy Kerr are pleased to bring the contemporary art of Theo Fabergé to AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL 250 readers and the United States. Created especially with the past 248-year history of the United States and England, and their restored friendship in mind, the late Fabergé has captured the essence of his renowned grandfather Peter Carl Fabergé, in Theo's own designs including the exclusive Mayflower 400 Egg. Handcrafted in England and imported by MacKerr, the Mayflower400 Egg combines Theo's own talent and imagination - with the craftsmanship of specialists working in precious metals, enamels, gemstones, fine porcelain and lead crystal, to create this masterful art piece. This special creation continues the egg art tradition, with a miniature Mayflower story framed within the ovoid shape. This is a limited-edition series of 100.

“ALL AMERICAN” ART LOVERS

AWESOME AMERICAN ART COLLECTORS

The Ship is Sailing – Don’t Miss the Boat!

In the United States, Theo has received commissions from notable collectors of Carl Fabergé and from museums such as the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. The Collection is now shown in major outlets throughout the world. Other eminent museums such as the San Diego Fine Arts Museum have catalogued Theo Fabergé‘s creations within their collections. Each creation is a Limited Edition of as little as 6 pieces. In 1999 Theo was commissioned to create the White House Egg for the United States President in celebration of 200 years of the building of the White House - with sales proceeds going to charities throughout America. Father Flanagan’s Boys Town commissioned the “Brotherhood Egg”, for it’s 75th anniversary in 1991. Actor Mickey Rooney, who starred in the movie Boys Town, visited the famous village to help unveil the limited-edition egg designed by Theo Faberge, featuring the famous “He ain’t heavy, he’s my brother” symbol. The Boys Town Faberge Egg is on display in the Hall of History Museum. And of curse there is the Mayflower 400 Egg, which was onboard the Mayflower II for the 65th Anniversary of its gifting to the United States from the people of England, as a Thank you gift to America for saving England in WWII. Today, in the United States there are around 30,000,000 descendants from the Mayflower’s arrival in 1620 – 404 years ago. That number is 10 times more than the entire population of the United States’ 13 Colonies, 250 years ago in 1774. Especially for those of Pilgrim descendant, the Mayflower 400 Egg would be a memorable and cherished family heirloom and historical keepsake. Your Beautiful Christmas Gift is here!

A TRUE GIFT FOR THOSE OF MAYFLOWER AND PILGRIM/EARLY AMERICAN DESCENT

A Thanksgiving Reflection from 1774 for today!

“Now is the time, my brethren, when our enemies expect that we shall run wild and mad, for want of something to guide us. The extremes of power, and the wanton abuse of liberty, you may assure yourselves will always end alike, in absolute tyranny at last. God give you firmness to adhere to your liberties, with prudence and discretion at the same time, to maintain quiet and peaceable lives in all godliness and honesty.

Government is a wise, a necessary, and a sacred thing. And while you see it abused by men of high, and of low degree; instead of wishing to be free from its necessary restraints, let us be looking to the Ruler of all nations to put us again upon a good foundation, that duty and interest may both lead us to be subject to the ordinances of man... ”

“AND while we are thus anxious for the welfare of our country, let us praise God’s holy name for the blessings we yet enjoy in it. These, amidst all our gloomy prospects, are neither few nor small things. We yet enjoy the means of grace, and the rights of conscience. We are blessed with general health, food, raiment, and all the necessaries of life. We have been favoured in the seasons of the year, and in the produce of the earth. Such a spirit of benevolence has been shewn towards that part of this province which is suffering the vengeance of power, as was not to be expected among mankind. And what must be ascribed to the influence of heaven, the very measures that were designed to divide, have proved the means of establishing a firm and solid union among the colonies. To all these mercies we may add, the life of our sovereign Lord the King has been preserved: To his family and throne, it is our duty and interest to bear a steady allegiance; and in whose royal favour

and protection, we hope this country will find peace, safety, and happiness, for many ages yet to come. For these and all other mercies, let us return sincere thanks to almighty God; whose providence has always appeared for our help and protection, in all the difficulties we have passed through.- One way, my brethren, in which we should express our gratitude to God for his mercies, should be by unfeigned repentance for all our past sins: And this, with prayer and supplication, is the proper way to seek his favour for the time to come. Let us return then to the Almighty, that he may build us up. Let us return to that sober sense of piety and religion, which animated and encouraged our Fathers in that noblest enterprise of public virtue, laying the foundation of these colonies. Then shall we have reason to expect that heaven and earth will once more join to remove our difficulties and fears, and to make us a free, a grateful, and a happy people. TO this then, repentance and reformation, we are now called by all that is holy in religion, by all that is important to our country, and by all that is valuable to mankind. And may God arise and have mercy upon Zion: May the time to favour her, yea, may the set time now come... ”

“From the collected wisdom of your country, you will judge what measures are proper for you to take, in the present exigency of public affairs. The business of the pulpit is to enjoin whatsoever things are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, and of good report. If there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, shew to the nations of the earth (what will indeed be a most singular phenomenon) amidst all the jarring interests, subtlety, and rage of politics- you had virtue enough to think of, and to practice these things.” On Love of Country - Samuel Williams

“Our harvest being gotten in, our governor sent four men on fowling, that so we might after have a special manner rejoice together after we had gathered the fruit of our labors; they four in one day killed as much fowl, as with a little help beside, served the company almost a week, at which time amongst other recreations, we exercised our arms, many of the Indians coming amongst us, and among the rest their greatest King Massasoit, with some ninety men, whom for three days we entertained and feasted, and they went out and killed five deer, which they brought to the plantation and bestowed on our governor, and upon the captain, and others. And although it be not always so plentiful as it was at this time with us, yet by the goodness of God, we are so far from want that we often wish you partakers of our plenty.”

Plymouth colony statesman – Edward Winslow – 1st Thanksgiving 1621

“On such firm and solid foundation, Freedom has been established in NorthAmerica. And this is one of those reasons that may well lead us to value and love this country...It bids the fairest of any to promote the perfection and happiness of mankind. We have but few principles from which we can argue with certainty, what will be the state of mankind in future ages. But if we may judge of the designs of providence, by the number and power of the causes that are already at work, we shall be lead to think that the perfection and happiness of mankind is to be carried further in America, than it has ever yet been in any place...”

The powers of Europe are undoing themselves, and one another, with the exorbitant number of their forces. With all the wealth and power of the world at their command, they are multiplying their taxes and debts, and thus ruining their kingdoms... The nature, and tendency of this evil, till within a few years have been unknown among us...The cause of America seems indeed to be much the better cause. It is not the cause of a mob, a party or a faction that America means to plead. May these things to which some have been unhappily driven, but which are unnatural productions in this country, cease forever from among us”...

“The fatal arts of luxury and corruption are but comparatively beginning among us. Security and wealth had indeed began in our larger towns to enervate and introduce luxury, vanity, and various kinds of unnecessary expence; which were gradually diffusing the poison all around. But the late measures have effectually cured us for the present, of this kind of folly. Nor is corruption yet established as the common principle in public affairs. Our representatives are not chosen by bribing, corrupting, or buying the votes of the electors. Nor does it take one half of the revenue of a province, to manage her house of commons. Public integrity was sufficient to secure a large majority, during all our happy days of peace and concord...”

“Thus, many and powerful causes are already at work, which if we may judge from the common methods of province, are leading the way to a more perfect and happy state. The prospect and probability is, that things will operate this way in America, for many centuries yet to come... ”

“In our destruction, Liberty itself expires; and human nature will despair of evermore regaining its first and original dignity...”- To oppose Britain by force and violence, is an extreme to which all wise and good men among us, most ardently pray we may never be forced. But to give up to her the management of taxes, is to give up all that we have. Dreadful extremes! May the wise and good on both sides, instead of increasing the difficulty, join to find out some happy expedient for restoring such mutual justice, friendship and union, as shall leave this country free, and set that at the head of human affairs for many ages ye to come... ”

“We should shew our love to our country, in every way in which we can promote its good... The surest way we can take to promote the good of our country, is to attend to Public and private virtue which is agreeable to the laws of God, and adapted to promote the interest and welfare of mankind...We have few so corrupted with riches, as to be above all other pursuits but those of luxury, indolence, amusement, and pleasure. Chastity is yet the common virtue, boast, and glory ... Industry, sobriety, and hospitality, make part of the general character of the other…It is our interest to renounce whatever is contrary to the rules of religion, purity of morals, and prosperity.

“Such virtue will naturally tend to promote the good of our country. And this is what the united councils and voice of America now call us to. If therefore, my brethren, you have any value for your own interest, any feeling for the love of your country, or any regard for the generations that are to come; if you are Americans any more than by name, if you have the spirit, or desire to have the privileges of Free-men, you must now vigorously exert yourselves in this way, for the interest and welfare of your country...It should lead us to repent of all the vice, wickedness, and moral evils that are among us... ”

In the present singular situation of this province, it may not be unseasonable to caution you against loosing your regard to good laws and government. It is an unhappy necessity which

forces our attention so much to matters of state. But while we see everything in

a state of disorder and confusion around us, it is of the last importance that we keep up a steady regard to the rules of righteousness, of personal and social virtue...

declared, that he will never desist, till he has brought America to his feet; and we may conclude, nothing but necessity will induce him to abandon his aims. In common life, to retract an error even in the beginning, is no easy task. Perseverance confirms us in it, and rivets the difficulty; but in a public station, to have been in an error, and to have persisted in it, when it is detected, ruins both reputation and fortune. To this we may add, that disappointment and opposition inflame the minds of men, and attach them, still more, to their mistakes...”

“I shall now examine the principal measures of the congress, and vindicate them fully from the charge of injustice or impolicy...”

“In a civil society, it is the duty of each particular branch to promote, not only the good of the whole community, but the good of every other particular branch: If one part endeavours to violate the rights of another, the rest ought to assist in preventing the injury: When they do not, but remain nutral,4 they are deficient in their duty, and may be regarded, in some measure, as accomplices.

The reason of this is obvious, from the design of civil society, which is, that the united strength of the several members might give stability and security to the whole body, and

each respective member; so that one part cannot encroach upon another, without becoming a common enemy, and eventually endangering the safety and happiness of all the other parts...”

It may not be amiss to add, that we are ready to receive with open arms, any who may be sufferers by the operation of our measures, and recompense them with every blessing our country affords to honest industry. We will receive them as brethren, and make them sharers with us in all the advantages we are struggling for...”

“Under the auspices of tyranny, the life of the subject is often sported with; and the fruits of his daily toil are consumed in oppressive taxes, that serve to gratify the ambition, avarice and lusts of his superiors...”

“We are not disputing about trifles”

“Are you willing then to be slaves without a single struggle? Will you give up your freedom, or, which is the same thing, will you resign all security for your life and property, rather than endure some small present inconveniencies? Will you not take a little trouble to transmit the advantages you now possess to those, who are to come after you? I cannot doubt it...”

“It would be no unbecoming employment for our daughters to provide silks of their own country. If by the necessity of the thing, manufactures should once be established and take root among us, they will pave the way, still more, to the future grandeur and glory of America, and by lessening its need of external commerce, will render it still securer against the encroachments of tyranny...”

“They would find means to tax you for every child you got, and for every kiss your daughters received from their sweet-hearts, and God knows, that would soon ruin you. Indeed, there is no reason to think (THEY) would have any inclination to spare you: The contrary is evident.

But being ruined by taxes is not the worst you have to fear. What security would you have for your lives? How can any of you be sure you would have the free enjoyment of your religion long? would you put your religion in the power of any set of men living? Remember civil and

religious liberty always go together, if the foundation of the one be sapped, the other will fall of course... ”

“As to her wealth, it is notorious that she is oppressed with a heavy national debt, which it requires the utmost policy and economy ever to discharge. Luxury has arrived to a great pitch; and it is an universal maxim that luxury indicates the declension of a state. Her subjects are loaded with the most enormous taxes: All circumstances agree in declaring their distress. The continual emigrations, from Great-Britain and Ireland, to the continent, are a glaring symptom, that those kingdoms are a good deal impoverished...”

“Thus, have I clearly proved, that the plan of opposition concerted by our congress is perfectly consonant with justice and sound policy; and will, in all human probability, secure our freedom against the assaults of our enemies...”

“Is it not better, I ask, to suffer a few present inconveniencies, than to put yourselves in the way of losing every thing that is precious. Your lives, your property, your religion are all at stake. I do my duty. I warn you of your danger. If you should still be so mad, as to bring destruction upon yourselves; if you should still neglect what you owe to God and man, you

“We have it in our power to begin the world over again.”

- Thomas Paine

let’s get it RIGHT America! As we are working towards that goal, remember this worthy adage:

“There’s Nothing Wrong With Getting It Right”

That’s what TEAM USA 250 is all about and Your country needs you. We can all build a beautiful new world together, but it will take work. Ready to jump in? If you really think about it...you really have nothing to lose and everything to gain. Contemplate this one page for a short while and you are sure to hear that wise voice of reason. Use the page up front on P2, to jot your notes and to make a pledge to yourself that you are going to be a great citizen and friend to your fellow country(men/women). STOP RIGHT HERE for one moment to seek to turn that light bulb on! Aren’t things already looking a little brighter?

“Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people.” Proverbs 14:34

Did you hit the pause button for a moment of reflection? Awesome start if so and if not, why not? This magazine is meant to challenge and encourage you. What are you thinking right now? Jot that thought down and mull it over for just even one minute - the blessing will be yours. What are your ideas to begin the world again, that 25o years ago, Thomas Paine stated you have the power within you to do.

GREAT! With that as a start, we would like to invite you to jump in the game of a new life in America... one that will change the world in the best way. This is a game everyone should want

The Extraordinary America Makeover

On TEAM-USA250, it’s not going to be 100,000 folks in the stands watching 11 guys play - it’s going to be millions of folks all around the country getting in the game and hopefully everyone else watching miracles take place on the “American fields” of houses, schools, churches, businesses, towns, cities and states, all throughout this great land. Pause for one more moment ... and jot the time when you decided you wanted to get your Name, Image and Likeness in the game! It’s up to us America - let’s get in Right!

There is no law, either of nature, or of the civil society in which we live, that obliges us to purchase and make use of the products and manufactures of a different land, or people. It is indeed a dictate of humanity to contribute to the support and happiness of our fellow creatures and more especially those who are allied to us by the ties of blood, interest, and mutual protection; but humanity does not require us to sacrifice our own security and welfare to the convenience, or advantage of others.

Self preservation is the first principle of our nature. When our lives and properties are at stake, it would be foolish and unnatural to refrain from such measures as might preserve them, because they would be detrimental to others.

-ALEXANDER HAMILTON

cannot plead ignorance in your excuse. Your consciences will reproach you for your folly, and your children’s children will curse you... ”

...we are not disputing about trifles. It has been clearly proved to you, that we are contending for every thing dear in life, and that the measures adopted by the congress, are the only ones which can save us from ruin. This is sufficient to confute that insinuation. But to confirm it, let me observe to you, that the merchants have not been the foremost to bring about a non-importation. All the members of the congress were unanimous in it; and many of them were not merchants. The warmest advocates for it, every where, are not concerned in trade, and, as I before remarked, the traders will be the principal sufferers, if it should continue any time.

“Our numbers are very considerable; the courage of Americans has been tried and proved...”

- Alexander Hamilton

“Almost every province has its public Academy; some of which are nearly as ancient as the state and grown up to the form of the ancient universities. Physical and philosophical foundations are taking place. And there are two capital discoveries of which America can already boast. From such promising beginnings, the fairest hopes and prospects arise. The forms of our government will naturally lead us to cultivate the arts of eloquence and speaking” Samuel Williams 1774

Harvard University

Founded 1636 (MA)

University of Pennsylvania Founded 1636 (PA)

St. John’s College Founded 1696 (MD)

Yale University

Founded 1701 (CT)

Moravian College Founded 1743 (PA)

College of William & Mary Founded 1693 (VA)

University of Delaware Founded 1743 (DE)

Princeton University Founded 1746 (NJ)

Rutgers University

Founded 1766 (NJ)

Brown University Founded 1636 (RI)

Washington & Lee Univ. Founded 1749 (VA)

Columbia University Founded 1754 (NY)

AMERICA, Do really-good?

and the benefit reading Samuel previous page, along the way, What started but it’s now time

One of the BEAUTIFUL encouraging tremendous Truman had leaders, but all

Unfortunately, the art of reading is being lost by society...and therefore it stands to reason, many good leaders as well. This ought not be so! There is a Gift of Knowledge that awaits you if you will open your minds and hearts to it.

An intelligent heart acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge. Psalm 18:15

“All Americans”- It’s time to “Crack the books.” A great start America, is right here, Right Now! Read the magazine and acquire some worthwhile knowledge that will help you with your life. You DO have the time – “Make the time” - “Take the time” to lead yourself to a disciplined new you. For the good of yourself and our Country, it’s important to “Get back to the basics.” A superb beginning to this call is to

”exam-in” the “root.” This is what AMERICA

THE BEAUTIFUL 250 is all about doing, by way of exploring the roots of the Beautiful United States of America. Our mission begins!

The Greek root-word for Knowledge is gnosis, from the Indo-European root gno - from which the English word “knowledge” is derived. Gnosis was used to denote an intuitive awareness of hidden mysteries as opposed to general/analytical knowledge.

In a general and worldly sense, it should be well-understood that “knowledge” refers simply to the acquisition of information and facts. Filling your brain with stuff however does not

Roots of Knowledge stained-glass art installation – Utah Valley University

Ladies and Gentlemen...”It’s Time”

We’ve all seen, witnessed and most-possibly, participated in the ongoing and re-run HOLIDAY Gladiator “fight-nights”; the “smack-downs”; the “trash-talking”; and the long-running “FamilyFeuds.” And that’s just in the “recent” world of American politics within our own families.

Then there is the so-called (super-scripted –wink/wink), “Reality” TV shows, with the “all-sodecent” and sweet but “Desperate-for-attention”, Housewives of Any-City USA...along with a rich, handsome, “Single-Guy” kissing 25 great-looking gals who - for a myriad of heart-wrenching reasons - can’t seem to find the man of their dreams, so they thought they would try competing for “theone”...who they fall immediately in love with...before the other gals do (during their romantically “secret” but exotic sleepovers. “Hey, that’s a low-blow...let’s keep it above the belt.”

Ready for something really-provocative, America?

Then AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL 250 has got you covered - in a virtuous “made for family ” kind of way. It’s something everyone should REALLY love!

It’s got an ancient - but “modern-day” vibe that may not make you laugh (since there are no accompanying senseless jokes and laugh-tracks).

But It may bring you to tears though...and it will certainly cause you to think and contemplate your life; your future; and the type of world (Country/USA), you want to live in and pass along to your children and grand-children...in the mostwholesome and beneficial kind of way. It’s called:

VIRTUE ALL ”BACK TO” REALITY

Mark your calendars the True-to-Life, “wash your mouth out with soap” drama fight is soon to begin. What we are watching now is just the previews!

“Knowledge will forever govern ignorance; and a people who mean to be their own governors, must arm themselves with the power which knowledge gives” - James Madison

mean you have attained “Knowledge” and “Intelligence”. Filling our minds with the wrong information is actually something we should guard against. Just as stuffing our bodies with all the wrong kind food has a detrimental effect on our health and wellbeing, so too does consuming all the wrong information and facts for “knowledge” sake.

It stands to reason that there is GOOD information and BAD information and that we all should have enough basic, “common-sense knowledge” to know that the GOOD (True), information is that which we should seek and the BAD (False), information is such we should be discerning of and standing against.

“Knowing” our brains (like computers), can be programmed....what we program them with will determine the output and it affects not only our thoughts, but also our moods, our behaviors, and the decisions that we make.

Does any of this ring true today?

Genuine (True) knowledge is valuable and considered a gift from God, directly given to those who are open to receiving it and have the capacity to understand it. If true that it comes "from His own mouth," we should open our ears to this super-beneficial knowledge. We are instructed that, seeking to understand God's will is the key to gaining proper knowledge.

This knowledge should guide our lives and actions. Billy Graham once said, “It is the absence of the knowledge of God, and man’s refusal to obey Him, that lie at the root of every problem which besets us. ” The Gift of Knowledge thus refers to the ability to apply truth to life and the ability to access deeper understanding of true knowledge through revelation of (and connection with), the Grand giver of knowledge. Ask yourself, why would this ever be diminished and kept from you. Why would you/we/U.S. allow this to be so?

Woe to you, scholars of the law! You have taken away the key of knowledge. Luke 11:52

With Christmas quickly upon us and the echos of Greatness filling the air, we have the profound responsibility and obligation to ourselves and especially to future generations to safeguard and pass along this most sacred gift of knowledge. in Ecclesiastes we learn, “One blessing of good knowledge is that wisdom preserves the life of those who have it”

Therefore, let it not be said of us that we squandered this tremendous and precious Gift of Knowledge. Seeking to understand its creator’s will for us is the key to gaining proper knowledge. Sound knowledge is the primary guide that will lead us to the True happiness we seek...and a gift that is worth passing along.

To share it we must seek to protect it!

“Can the liberties of a nation be thought secure when we have removed their only firm basis, a conviction in the minds of people that these liberties are of the gift of God? That they are not to be violated but with his wrath?” Indeed, I tremble for my country when I reflect that God is just; that His justice cannot sleep for ever….”

- Thomas Jefferson

YOU LIFT U.S. UP

It was a fateful day in Las Vegas now six-years past. A very bright, decent, disciplined, ambitious, dedicated, faithful and promising, school boy, by the name of Mark Wilbourne, was training in the Red Canyon hills above the bustling city, that sunny Sunday afternoon. Mark was on his racing-bike, training for the Ironman Triathlon in Boulder, Colorado, that he would compete in, months to come. In a flash, that day changed his life forever, as Mark was in a horrific accident that would paralyze him. His body was crushed but his spirit and iron-will were certainly not.

BOULDER - COLORADO

needed Ironmen to help lift them up. It’s folks like these who inspired this regular section of AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL 250

AWESOME AMERICAN CITIZENS - YOU LIFT U.S. UP!

Countless numbers of people throughout the journey of years poured in to bless the Wilbournes: Amongst them: Carrot Top; The Golden Knights; The Colorado Avalanche; Tim Tebow, Peyton Manning; The CU Triathlon Team and yes, Ironman...

AWESOME AMERICAN CITIZENS YOU LIFT U.S. UP!

THANK YOU...

However, America

American

Citizens, That’s not all, of the story...

There was also Anne Bieler, Nick Vujicic, Willie Robertson & Life Surge; Family; Friends; Teachers; Students - including those at Boys Town; Emergency Medical Staff; Doctors; Nurses; Parents; TV crews; Pastors; Priests; Craig Hospital Spinal Injury

Specialists; Winter Park Paralytic Ski Team; Brig Gen Rob Novotny and so many other wonderful AWESOME AMERICAN CITIZENS

Prior to the accident, Mark had applied to and was accepted into the University of Colorado, Aerospace Engineering School. He graduated in May 2024 and is now working for Lockheed Martin in the coveted Leadership Dev. Team. Way to go, IronMark!

TEAM USA250 - is on a mission...and if you love America, we invite you to join us!

Restore America

Every journey begins with a starting point AND a destination. To get to where you are going, it is important to have good directions - from trusted people who know the way...with helpful recommendations of sights to see and things to do as you are making the trek. It’s also good to make proper preparations for the journey ahead and to know what things to avoid. In this issue of AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL 250, we’ve heard from experts who have charted the course before, some 250 years ago. Their wisdom and instruction is still as relevant today as it was in 1774. From the time they decided to make the treacherous journey towards a Declaration of Independence in 1776, they needed to first make sure things were all ready! And ‘got ready’ they did. They all grouped together, as a united force for good, with a plan.

As America and TEAM USA250 are making our own preparations for “The Dawning of A New Day in America”, much is taking place to build-up and train TEAM USA250 “All American” Ambassadors who will be the great community leaders, committed to help their States, Cities and Communities, in the very best and finest development ways

Like the Founding Fathers who first promoted courage, our TEAM USA Coaches and Staff, will utilize this shared vision and passion for excellence, to be a motivating force for the collective good. When things are not right and/or broken, it takes a lot of work to either patch things back together or better yet, to revive and restore completely. Through the collective work of getting ”All Americans” into the game and embracing this vision, we can all be Awesome American Citizens and change-makers!

“I scorn to let my life and property depend upon the pleasure of any of them. Give me the steady, uniform, unshaken security of constitutional freedom; give me the right to be tried by a jury of my own neighbours, and to be taxed by my own representatives only. What will become of the law and courts of justice without this? The shadow may remain, but the substance will be gone. I would die to preserve the law upon a solid foundation; but take away liberty, and the foundation is destroyed...”

“Our oppression arises from that member of the great body politic, of which they compose a considerable part. So far as their influence has been wanting to counteract the iniquity of their rulers, so far they acquiesced in it, and are to be deemed confederates in their guilt. It is impossible to exculpate a people, that suffers its rulers to abuse and tyrannize over others...” “The sort of men I am opposing give you fair words, to persuade you to serve their own turns; but they think and speak of you in common in a very disrespectful manner. I have heard some of their party talk of you, as the most ignorant and mean-spirited set of people in the world. They say, that you have no sense of honour or generosity; that you don’t care a farthing about your country, children or any body else, but yourselves; and that you are so ignorant, as not to be able to look beyond the

present; so that if you can once be persuaded to believe the measures of your congress will involve you in some little present perplexities, you will be glad to do any thing to avoid them; without considering the much greater miseries that await you at a little distance off. This is the character they give of you. For my part, I will never entertain such an opinion of you, unless you should verify their words, by wilfully falling into the pit they have prepared for you. I flatter myself you will convince them of their error, by shewing the world, you are capable of judging what is right and left, and have resolution to pursue it...” “Take notice, my friends, how these men are obliged to contradict themselves. In one place you are told, that all the bustle about nonimportation, has its rise, not from patriotism, but from selfishness, “or, in other words, that it is made by the merchants to get a higher price for their goods.” In another place it is said, that all we are doing is instigated by some turbulent men, who want to establish a republican form of government among us... ”

All we aim at, is to convince your high and mighty masters, the ministry, that we are not such asses as to let them ride us as they please. We are determined to shew them, that we know the value of freedom; nor shall their rapacity extort, that inestimable jewel from us, without a manly and virtuous struggle.”

“Will you then, my friends, allow yourselves, to be duped by this artful enemy? will you follow his advices, disregard the authority of your congress, and bring ruin on yourselves and posterity? will you act in such a manner as to deserve the hatred and resentment of all the rest of America? I am sure you will not. I should be sorry to think, any of my countrymen would be so mean, so blind to their own interest, so lost to every generous and manly feeling.”

“I have shewn, that the congress have neither “ignorantly misunderstood, carelessly neglected, nor basely betrayed you; ” but that they have desired and recommended the only effectual means to preserve your invaluable privileges. I have proved, that their measures cannot fail of success; but will procure the mostspeedy relief for us”.

- Alexander Hamilton

LISTEN WELL AMERICA!

SCOTT OLSON / GETTY IMAGES

Please keep in handy and reference it often to reflected upon the stories within. It’s meant to challenge; to coach; to cheer; to uplift; and lead “All Americans” to aspire to greatness and “Awesome American Citizenship.” This was the Call of President Kennedy in his runup to the election in 1960 - with his slogan: A Time for Greatness. In 1980, when a fractured Nation doubted itself, the great optimist and communicator, Ronald Reagan, gave the country something to believe in again with his slogan, Let’s Make America Great Again. Today, Donald Trump has shortened the phrase by a word and smartly, brilliantly trademarked the name: Make America Great Again. It has once again inspired a positive and hopeful vision, that has already (before him even taking office), reignited a new vigor to set U.S. on the course for our Nations –“America the Beautiful 25o” Birthday.

What AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL 250 and TEAM USA250 wish to accomplish is to set

AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL 250

THE HISTORIC VOYAGE OF AMERICA BEGINS AGAIN

MAYFLOWER DECENDENTS ART COLLECTORS INQUIRE WITHIN

The American Scroll

Celebrating the 25o Anniversary of The First Independent Thanksgiving 1774

Happy Holidays Awesome American Citizens