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Happy Semiquincentennial, America! - 250 Reasons Why America is Still Worth Celebrating

  • Gail Borden Public Main Library Elgin Room & Virtual 270 N Grove Ave Elgin, IL 60120 (map)
Poster featuring American icon images like hot dog, spaceship, statue of liberty, liberty bell, whitehouse, with Happy Semi quincentennial, America text

Happy Semiquincentennial, America! - 250 Reasons Why America is Still Worth Celebrating

Hybrid – Gail Borden Public Main Library Elgin Room & Virtual
Thursday, April 2
6:30 – 7:30 pm

Adults. In this lively and warm presentation, Jay Payleitner shares readings and reflections inspired by his timely book, Happy Semiquincentennial, America!

Topics and readings may include: Route 66, Slinkys, Teddy Bears, drive-in movies, Pearl Harbor, Gettysburg, Old Faithful, Mister Rogers, Johnny Appleseed, Gila monsters, dandelions, Mount Rushmore, Groundhog Day, Sharpies, Chicago-style hot dogs, red Solo cups, and JELL-O with weird stuff in it.

The book—and talk—are equal parts travelogue, time capsule, trivia book, owner’s manual, and love letter. Chapters include America’s Soundtrack, Heroes Among Us, American Ingenuity, and Emerging Patriotism.

Jay’s Final Word—a surprising reflection on our National Anthem—will remind you that we’ve all got work to do if America is going to remain the home of the free and the land of the brave.

You’ll also hear about Jay’s journey to becoming a best-selling author, along with reflections on growing up in the Fox Valley—and how that shaped his love for country.

Jay Payleitner is a national speaker and the best-selling author of more than 40 books including 52 Things Kids Need from a Dad, What If God Wrote Your Bucket List?, Hooray for Grandparents!, and Happy Semi quincentennial, America! Event will include Q&A and books available for sale and autograph.

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March 26

The Founding Mothers: Unsung Women of the Revolution

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April 9

Risking It All - The Signers of the Declaration of Independence