The Breeze Newspapers will publish an exciting special project dedicated to the United States of America\u2019s 250th anniversary. <\/p>\n
Titled, \u201cAmerica 250,\u201d this weekly feature will run for 10 weeks, and include historical stories and local perspectives published in Cape Coral, Fort Myers Beach, Sanibel\/Captiva and Pine Island. <\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019re fortunate that our parent company, Ogden Newspapers, has properties in many markets with unique connections to the American Revolution and American history and that will provide a unique perspective for some of our America 250 content alongside our local coverage,\u201d said Breeze Newspapers Publisher Ray Eckenrode. <\/p>\n
Breeze Newspapers has also launched an America 250 patriotic photo contest that began April 22, offering $500 in cash prizes. <\/p>\n
The America 250 special section will be inserted into Breeze Newspapers publications on July 1 and 3. <\/p>\n
As the city\u2019s community newspaper, The Breeze will also provide ongoing coverage of activities surrounding the 250th anniversary of the United States throughout Southwest Florida. <\/p>\n
Sponsors of our America 250 coverage include Purified Air, Next Level Paving, Joshua Tree, Zak\u2019s Jewelry, Bluewave Construction, Dunkin Diamonds, Comfort Keepers and Maid Brigade of Lee County.<\/p>\n
America at 250: A journey told through time; told through our communities<\/p>\n
What began as an experiment in self-governance rooted in personal freedom and liberty has grown into the world\u2019s most unique and important nation: the United States of America. Here, we can, within the boundaries of the law, do, say and think what we wish; we can worship as we choose; we have taxation with representation; the American Dream remains a real, living concept; and so much more. As President Ronald Reagan so aptly said in describing America\u2019s exceptionalism, we remain, in the eyes of the rest of the world, that \u201cshining city on a hill.\u201d<\/p>\n
But here at home, the mood has shifted in recent years. Too many of our friends and neighbors believe the American Dream \u2014 the idea that, through hard work, everyone can get ahead \u2014 no longer is attainable. We see our friends and family members protesting regularly over actions for which they do not agree.<\/p>\n
But even that \u2014 the right to, without fear of reprisal, protest your government and its actions \u2014 is part of what makes America so unique.<\/p>\n
This year marks a special milestone for our nation \u2014 and perhaps comes at just the right time to bring Americans together. On July 4, we will celebrate 250 years of America. What began as organized resistance to taxation without representation, unlawful searches and distant rule has become a nation that stretches from the Atlantic to the Pacific, a country shaped by many voices and backgrounds, a place where ideas and cultures converge into a great societal melting pot.<\/p>\n
Two-hundred and fifty years. Think about that. This July 4 will mark 91,310 days of America. A quarter of a millennium. What started officially with the Second Continental Congress\u2019 signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776 and admitting the first 13 states has become a nation welcome to all \u2014 a nation that has been a beacon for the world as its longest-standing democracy.<\/p>\n
As we look at America from its beginnings in 1776 to today, we see a nation that has grown through bold ideas, has been tested through conflict and expansion, and been sustained by generations that believed in its promises. We see a nation that leads the world in innovation. We see a nation that, through its natural resources, its geography and most importantly, its people, has emerged as the world\u2019s leading superpower.<\/p>\n
Let\u2019s face it: when America\u2019s sons and daughters put their mind to a task, it gets done.<\/p>\n
To mark this anniversary, we invite readers on our journey through that 250-year-old story with stories shared by Ogden Newspapers throughout the county.<\/p>\n
Beginning today, our America 250 series will explore the nation\u2019s origins, growth and continued transformation.<\/p>\n
As our nation approaches its 250-year milestone, this series offers a chance to look back \u2014 and to consider what comes next. The American story is still unfolding, written every day in communities like our own. We hope you join us over the coming three months as our nation prepares for America\u2019s 250th anniversary.<\/p>\n