In the Spirit of 1783: The Epic Patriotic Celebration for 1776 and USA 250

The beginning of September marks the anniversary of the Treaty of Paris 1783 on September 3, which marked the end of the American Revolution.

The beginning of July is a special time of celebration for the USA as we recall our independence.  That spirit is emphasized even more so during the year 2026.  It's an opportunity to connect with the roots of our nation, and be inspired anew in patriotism.  This country means so much to me, so I was eager to partake in the festivities that distinguish this year.

And so it was on a summery evening when I got in Avila on Friday, June 12, for a road trip to Wisconsin.  Catholic Vote hosted a Zeale for America 250 rally, in close proximity to the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, when the USA was consecrated to the Sacred Heart.

I departed around 6 PM, and headed in a northerly and westerly direction into Wisconsin.  Around 10:20 PM hour, I arrived at my hotel for the night in Tomah.  (Please note that in this post, times stated are mostly CDT, until I make another note later.)

The next morning, I departed at around 10:30 AM and drove about an hour west to La Crosse.  I met up with Mary Schaal, who I know from Ascension Parish, who came to the rally with her daughter and two of her granddaughters.  We first walked to the LaCrosse Center.  On the side facing the Mississippi River was the Freedom 250 Mobile Museum.  Inside were displays about the founding of the USA.  Upon entering, two people from Zeale, the news organization of Catholic Vote, asked us a few questions.  One interactive display in the museum had questions from the citizenship test.  I answered all 10 correctly.

The exterior of the museum

Wall of American Heroes

The screen congratulates me on passing the series of citizenship questions.

I included my signature on the Declaration of Independence in this display.

A display on the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution

Mary likely took this photo of me inside the museum.

A fellow visitor photographed me outside the museum.

When I finished there, I took a quick joyride over the Mississippi River to Minnesota and then back. 

The Welcome to Minnesota sign

Once I parked, I found a great place for lunch, Pickerman's, where I got a fabulous sandwich.  Then I headed back to the La Crosse Center, and went inside to partake of the pre-rally buzz.  I was very excited to meet Josh Mercer, Vice President of Catholic Vote, and one of the regular panelists on the Loopcast podcast.  There were plenty of other displays and vendors, along with Michael Knowles posing for photos.

Here I am with Catholic Vote Vice President Josh Mercer, who also is a panelist on The Loopcast.  I think someone on staff with Catholic Vote took this photo.

An exhibit on the Shroud of Turin inside

The view of the Mississippi River from the La Crosse Center

At 2 PM, the doors to the ballroom opened.  The rally was set to begin at 3 PM, but there was a pre-rally show.  The whole event had a great line-up of speakers.

Kelsey talked about how we can live as saints now in the USA, sharing examples of many Catholics who helped consecrate this country in living out their faith.

Cardinal Burke had many great insights to share about patriotism, which he defined as a love for country in recognition of how the country has the role of upholding the common good.

Tom Pogasic speaks.

Cardinal Burke leads us in prayer.

Father Ambrose Criste, O.P., leads us in the Divine Mercy Chaplet.

Bradley Banning performs.

Kelsey Reinhardt speaks.

Because I intended to return that evening so I could be ready for a Quinceañera celebration in the family the following day, I left the rally around 4:20.  I stopped for Mass at a nearby church before I began my return to Oak Park.  Along the way, I stopped in Wisconsin Dells to have dinner at Culver's.  It was delightful to eat outside.

I had the strawberry fields salad, a great summer seasonal favorite, and I think that was a berry-flavored lemon ice drink.

Here's the final mileage when I returned to Oak Park.

Later, I watched the archived video to hear the other amazing speakers at the rally.  Coach Lombardi and Cecilia Jean both spoke about putting faith into action in their lives and work.  Isabel Brown talked about how important faith has been in the history of the USA.

Michael Knowles had many thoughtful observations on the American Revolution, which he said was so conservative, it shouldn't necessarily be called a revolution, becuase it was about preserving a state in which the people could live in liberty.  Furthermore, there were aspects of the government created in the founding era that touched on Catholic philosophical principles, especially those espoused by St. Thomas Aquinas.  (You can view the entire event here.)

When July arrived, I was excited to celebrate the profound days of the anniversary of the Independence of the USA. I had the day off work on July 2, and I zealously celebrated the anniversary of the vote in Congress on the Independence resolution.  After starting my day at Church for Mass, I reached back to some favorite programs.  I watched the Liberty's Kids episode on Independence, which inspired me as a middle schooler.  Then, I viewed the Discovering the USA program, a tour video of the USA.  My Grandma's friend Selma gave it to me as a gift, and I watch it once a year in celebration of the Independence of the USA.  It always inspires me, especially the opening and finale segments, and in between is an overview of various places in each region of the USA.  

This shake from Hole in the Wall had mixed berries, which gave it a nice patriotic flair.

I cooked this turkey breast in the crockpot, and it was part of my dinner--please see photo below

Also, I cooked turkey meat to have a grand, celebratory meal.

Dee, on staff at the Oak Park Public Library, photographed me with a book about the Declaration of Independence when I came to check it out at the Maze Branch.

The following evening, on July 3, I watched A Capitol Fourth on PBS, which had a great line-up of presenters and music.

On the morning of July 4, I went to Mass at St. Odilo, and Father Bart offered some great insights in his homily about loving this country, the place where God has put us to live for His purposes, and how we should strive to uphold this country.

Shortly after 9 AM, I had my computer open to the livestream of the Declaration of Independence Ceremony at the National Archives in Washington, D.C.  Although there was extreme heat in WAshington, D.C., that day which suspended outdoor activities, I was glad that this ceremony still happened, taking place inside.  There were great remarks from the keynote speakers.  Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins spoke about the power of the Declaration of Independence and remarked how amazing it is we can see it today in the National Archives.  US Representative Elise Stefanik reflected on the extraordinary events of July 1776 and how, through great toil, our country emerged great.  Rodney Slater spoke about the power of the ideas in the Declaration.  (Here's a link to the ceremony video.)

It ended with "America the Beautiful".  While it was sung, I saw the time 10:36 on the clock, reminding me of the beloved home where I grew up.

After it ended, I hopped on my bike and went to Whittier School, where the Oak Park parade was ending.  I got to meet Olympian Emery Lehman.

Emery Lehman is to the left of me in the photo.  I can't remember the name of the lady to the far left, who is also an Olympian with an Oak Park connection.

One of the floats at the end of the Oak Park parade.

Later that day, I joined with family at my uncle's house for a celebratory meal.  We stayed dry inside while a storm came.  

Here I am with my patriotic-colored dessert. I believe Uncle Bernie photographed me.

It was over in time for fireworks back in my beloved neighborhood of my youth.

Above are the fireworks.  Below, one of the spectators in the neighborhood photographed me after the show ended.

Even after July 4, there was still more celebration in store.  I headed east to participate.  

First, I took advantage of free admission at National Park sites during the Independence Holiday weekend to visit Indiana Dunes National Park.

Then, around 5:45-5:50 PM CDT on the evening of Monday, July 6, 2026, I got in the car of fellow parishioner Brian, and he took me to Chicago Union Station.  I then went to the Great Hall to wait for the boarding call for Amtrak train #41, the eastbound/southbound Floridian train.  

The Floridian train I rode is fourth from the top on the Departures side of the info board.

It was delayed because the equipment was released late from the yard.  By 7 PM, we were on the platform for boarding.  It departed around 7:11 PM CDT.   There was plenty of daylight available to admire the views as the train headed from Chicago into northern Indiana.  During the ride, I followed Google's live updates of the USA vs. Belgium game.  (Please note, that in this part of the post, I travel into the Eastern Time Zone, and so times are EDT, unless otherwise specified, specifically on the day of my return.)

I was in the front passenger car, and here's the view of the engine in front.

I settled into sleep mode by the time the train reached Waterloo.  During the night, I got off the train for fresh air at Toledo and Cleveland.

Around 5 AM EDT, the train reached Pittsburgh.  I detrained for my layover before the next train.  I wandered around in downtown Pittsburgh, all the way to Divine Mercy Parish, and to a plaza where I prayed with the backdrop of a fountain. I also got breakfast at Bruegger's Bagels.

The fountain in the plaza at US Steel Tower

Here's the view as I get in line to board the eastbound Pennsylvanian train.

I was back at the station around 7:10, and boarding was already underway for train #42, the eastbound Pennsylvanian.  It departed at 7:30.  For the next several hours, I enjoyed wonderful views of Pennsylvania, including the Appalachian highlands, the Altoona Curve, and the Susquehanna River on the approach to Harrisburg, which was the one station where passengers were offered a fresh air stop.  During the ride, I read and watched the first episode of Life is Worth Living.

The scene looking out the last car of the Pennsylvanian train while traveling the Altoona Curve.

Here's an Avelia Liberty NextGen Acela train, in the near distance, as the Pennsylvanian train arrives at Philadelphia.

On this train info board inside the William H. Gray III-30th Street Station in Philadelphia, the Pennsylvanian train appears third from the top.

Shortly before 3 PM, the train arrived at Philadelphia William H. Gray III-30th Street Station. I detrained and headed for the SEPTA train platform to ride a short distance to the Jefferson Station.  Once there, I exited, and walked to my AirBnb lodgings to get my luggage settled.

Then I headed straight to the L Line at Market Street, the light-rail subway SEPTA train, and rode it to 5th Street.  From there, it was a short walk to Independence Hall.  I recently noticed that Independence National Historical Park was offering an expanded tour of the hall that included the 2nd floor in addition to the first floor.  I arrived right before the 4:20 start time, which was enough time for me to browse a special exhibit in the West Wing (please see the three photos directly below), and to shop in the East Wing.  

Once the tour started, our group ascended the stairs to the 2nd level, the location of the colonial governor's chambers.  It also included a large gathering space used for special occasions.  After Sarah, the guide, talked about the 2nd floor, we had the chance to look around for a few minutes.  I soon realized that Sarah was the same guide for an Independence Hall tour I did 4 years ago.

The view out the window looking north along Independence Mall

Stairs leading up beyond the second floor

In the Governor's Chamber

Above and below are views of the committee room, which is where the Pennsylvania legislature met while the Continental Congress met in the Assembly Room on the first floor.

Sarah leads the tour.

Here's a map of the eastern part of what is now the USA.

I liked seeing this instrument.

A view of the large space on the second floor.

Here is the view of the Governor's chamber, with an astronomical device to the right.

Then we headed to the courtroom--please see photo below. 

From there, we finished in the Assembly Room, where Sarah talked about the history of the Declaration of Independence.

A fellow visitor photographed me in the Assembly Room.

The tour ended right about 5 PM.   I walked a short distance east to the Museum of the American Revolution, where I viewed a special exhibit on the Declaration of Independence--please see the three photos below.  

Near the entrance of the exhibit is this display, with a chair that Thomas Jefferson used appearing to the left and to the right is a seat that Pastor Martin Luther King, Jr., used when in the Birmingham jail.

I departed just before the museum closed at 6 PM. Since it was a splendid evening, I decided to walk east to Penn's Landing, which involved a detour around some construction work on the typical walking approach.

Then I walked west and went to get dinner at Wawa.  I found a bench on Independence Hall to enjoy my dinner, a turkey sub and meatballs.

Above is my dinner showing the meatballs, and the hoagie sandwich, which is also below.

From there, I walked to a Trader Joe's store near my lodgings to get a few items.  And then I retired to my lodgings for the evening, arriving around 8 PM.  I watched part of the musical 1776, which was so fitting in Philadelphia, where it is set.

The next morning, Wednesday, July 8, I awoke shortly before 7 AM.  

The sunrise out my bedroom window.

I was at St. John the Evangelist Parish for 7:45 Mass.  Then I walked about 10 minutes back to my lodgings for breakfast.

The exterior of St. John the Evangelist appears along Arch Street.

A few minutes after 9 AM, I began a round of sightseeing.  I stopped to visit the Liberty Bell, and then visited the Museum of the American Revolution for a short time.  I also stopped at the Ben Franklin Post Office, which offers a special postmark for mail.

A fellow visitor photographed me by the Liberty Bell with Independence Hall appearing in the distance.

Decorative bells like this one in the Independence National Historical Park Visitors' Center appeared in various places in Philadelphia.

Above is the interior of the Benjamin Franklin Post Office and below is the exterior.

A fellow visitor photographed me in the Museum of the American Revolution.

Then I returned to my lodgings once final time to gather my luggage.  

The outside of my lodgings

My bedroom

Desk space in the bedroom

On my way back to Independence NHP, I got a turkey sandwich at the Reading Terminal Market.  

Around 11:30 or so, I was back at Independence NHP for a truly special event.  There's an annual reenactment of the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence on July 8, 1776, and I was looking forward to being in Philadelphia for the 250th anniversary reenactment.  Just a moment after crossing Chestnut along 5th Street, a person with a volunteer shirt handed me a Declaration broadside so I could follow along.

My excitement grew as I headed into the square.  There were many gathered already for pre-event festivities, including music and dancing.  Among those in the square were costumed interpreters.  I talked with two of them, one a lawyer, and another a frontiersman.

A ranger got on stage a few minutes before noon to offer commentary.  Seeing me with my broadside, two people, who looked like they were on lunch break, asked to borrow it to pose for a photo.

Right about noon, a costumed figure, portraying Colonel John Nixon, came to the stage and began to read the momentous words of the Declaration.  It was a thrill to shout Huzzah at various statements.

Here's a lawyer in historic 18 Century dress.

These 1 art pieces appeared all over Philadelphia.

A NPS ranger gives an introduction.

Here I am posing with a frontiersman, in a photo taken by a fellow visitor.

A reenactor portrays John Nixon as he offered the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence.

A fellow visitor photographed me posing in Independence Square after the public reading reenactment ended.

Various other costumed reenactors in the square after the reading ended.

After it ended, the crowd cheered Huzzah three times and then the bell in the tower rang.

By 12:30, I was on my way to the Philadelphia 30th Street Station.  I got there by 12:50 and went to the ticketing counter.  I was scheduled to ride the Floridian train back to Chicago from Pittsburgh, and it was already delayed multiple hours.  I spoke with a ticketing agent to rearrange my itinerary.  A few minutes after 1 PM, I was in line to board Northeast Regional Train #84, which departed Philadelphia around 1:15-1:20.  I found a spot in the front car in a seat facing opposite the train's movement and I took in the views of Philadelphia as the train whisked along over 100 mph.  I opened up my sandwich to have my lunch and I listened to The Tim Glemkowski Show.

Here's my sandwich.

About half an hour after leaving the Philadelphia station, the train crossed the Delaware River and entered New Jersey at Trenton.  

The Newark-Liberty International Airport train station.

Within the hour, the train entered the NYC Metro Area.  I got some glimpses of the NYC skyline before the train entered the tunnel underneath the Hudson River.  

Looking easterly toward the New York City-Manhattan skyline.

Shortly before 3 PM, the train arrived at New York City-Moynihan Train Hall-Penn Station. I ascended to the station level, and I was impressed by what I saw.  I wandered around, browsing the restaurants to find a dinner to take with me. I settled on a Deli place with a turkey sandwich and a Spindrift Island Punch fizzy drink.  I also went up to Street level to take in the view of downtown Manhattan, which was abuzz with activity. To the east, I could see the Empire State Building.

On the info board inside Penn Station, train #49 appears third from the bottom.

Outside Penn Station, I could look in an easterly direction and see the Empire State Building, which appears to the left in this photo.

Here's the info board above the entrance to the platform for train #49.

A few minutes before 3:30, I heard the boarding call for train #49, the westbound Lake Shore Limited.  I went straight ot the platform and readily boarded the train.  It departed at 3:40.  I wasn't expecting to be seated facing the opposite direction of the train's movement, though I found out later why it was that way.  Once the train emerged from the tunnel, there were stunningly scenic views of the Hudson River corridor all the way up to Albany.  I was glad to see the north end of Manhattan Island and Sunnyside, the home of Washington Irving, just yards from the tracks.

The George Washington Bridge looking from New York to New Jersey

The Sunnyside estate of Washington Irving

Here's the scene a little ways south of Albany.

Around 6 PM, the train arrived at Albany.  I had the chance to step off and walk around the station and the neighborhood.  The train was flipped around to join with the segment that originated in Boston.   BY 7 PM or so, we were on our way again.  The train crossed the Hudson and then started heading in a westerly direction.  There was one more fresh air stop at Syracuse.  After that point, I started settling down for bedtime.

The next morning, on Thursday, July 9, I saw a great sunrise.  

At Carroll Township, OH, east of Toledo

I stepped off into the bright morning sunshine at Toledo.  From there, it was onto the Airline Stretch to Indiana.  

On the airline stretch in northwest Ohio

The train arrived at Chicago Union Station shortly before 11 AM CDT.   I noticed on the train info board that the westbound Floridian train had a delayed arrival time to Chicago several hours after its scheduled 8:45 arrival, which ended up around 5 PM. I met with a FOCUS missionary who I had arranged to meet there.  We had a nice conversation.  By noon, I was on my way back to Oak Park.

I am so blessed and overjoyed to participate in the celebration of the 250th Anniversary of the Independence of the USA.  It was an opportunity to celebrate that I have been put into this place in this time for a purpose by God Who sanctifies all time according to His purposes.  I can live out my relationship with Him by doing my part to edify this country.  Father Bart's homily at Mass on the morning of July 4 was one of the highlights of my celebration because it offered such great insights about how faith connects with patriotism.  And having the July celebration preceded by the Consecration to the Sacred Heart, along with the Zeale for American 250 rally, was a great opportunity to open ourselves to a new blooming of God's graces for this country.

This summer of 2026 marked 10 years since my longtime dream of visiting Philadelphia and Independence Hall came true.  So it was special to travel to Philadelphia for this extraordinary celebration of the 250th Anniversary and connect with an important place in that story.  I was glad that I could participate in the expanded tour to see the 2nd floor.  And it was so epic to be part of the crowd gathered for the reenactment on July 8.  It was inspiring like watching Liberty's Kids was as a middle schooler, which helped me deeply appreciate the story of the founding of the USA.  Then to be in the setting where it happened was truly inspiring.

This celebration has been an opportunity to reconnect with those events 250 years ago, and to see how timeless principles were an important part of them.  Indeed, we can still draw from them to live with great purpose in this country that has offered so much to the world.

A fellow visitor photographed me posing with flags and a Declaration of Independence broadside in Independence Square before the start of the reenactment.

Dear 1036: Sweet Treats

Greetings Dearly Beloved 1036 Clarence,

When I was off school, I enjoyed going to Fair Share to shop for groceries with Mom.  During summer break, that meant week after week of grocery shopping trips on Monday mornings.

Upon arriving back home, we'd carry the bags inside and put everything away.  I sensed how working together helped it get done efficiently.  It was fun to shop and bring home a few special treats.

Later on, Mom started shopping at Pete's.  After one shopping trip there, she brought back Hudsonville Ice Cream.  She particularly liked the cherry fudge flavor, and I enjoyed it, too.  This brand reminded me of my relatives in Michigan.

Yes, we enjoyed sweet treats in you, and they are part of a vast collection of sweet memories.

I declare that you shall not fade into the background but remain deep in my heart as that dearly beloved place.

And we remain ever connected:

All my relations.

With joy, gladness, and gratitude,

God's blessings,

Paul

Colorado 150

Coming on the heels of the 250th Anniversary of the Independence of the United States of America, I am excited to celebrate the Centennial State today.  In fact, I'm in Colorado today to celebrate its 150th Anniversary.  I look forward to sharing more details about my trip and the celebration once I'm back.

For now, I am eager to offer tribute to this state because of its amazing geographical terrain, capped by the mountains, and the wonderful relatives I have here.

Before today, I have visited Colorado 8 times.  The first time was during my family's great Amtrak vacation in August 1997.  Staying in Denver at my Great Uncle Leonard and Aunt Carmen's house on the north side was the final leg of our trip.  It was a great time getting acquainted with Colorado's amazing sights and my relatives.

Most of the other times I've been in Colorado, I've spent time in Denver with my family.

Living in a rather flat state of Illinois, I am always stirred by the sight of the mountains.  For most of my trips, I've entered Colorado from the East, and I can see the progression of the flat plains of the eastern third of the state rising epically into the Rockies.

I've seen it onboard the California Zephyr train on the approach to Denver. And I've seen it onboard the Southwest Chief train as it curves through the southeast corner of Colorado from Lamar to La Junta to Trinidad.

The Rocky Mountains are certainly scenic.  I've spent time in the mountainous areas at Pagosa Springs in the southwest part of the state.  Steamboat Springs was also a great scenic spot.  I've greatly enjoyed visiting Rocky Mountain National Park three times.  And when my family visited in the summer of 2001, we drove up Pike's Peak.  It inspired "America, the Beautiful", which is one of my favorite songs.  Being up on the mountain, I got to see the same view that Professor Katharine Lee Bates had when she looked out to take a different view of the country and be truly amazed.  Despite my altitude sickness that gave me a constant headache, I still embraced being in such a scenic place.

As I picture Colorado's mountains in my mind, I think about how mountains in the Bible are often places of encounters with God, giving new perspectives and new outlooks on life to those who come to them.

One mountaintop experience I had recently was walking into the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in downtown Denver, just blocks from the Colorado State Capitol when I was there in the summer of 2023 when my Great Aunt Carmen turned 90.  The brightness of the sanctuary gives me a sense of Heaven.  Inside the Cathedral is also the tomb of Servant of God Julia Greeley, a woman who came from Kansas and settled in Denver, devoting her life to service.  Now the Archdiocese of Denver is sponsoring her cause for canonization.

Another mountaintop experience that had an enormous effect on the Roman Catholic Church in the USA, and the world, was World Youth Day 1993.  It's incredible that Pope St. John Paul II's effort to engage the young people came to Denver. I've heard that in the midst of unsettled times in Denver, WYD helped bring a renewed sense of peace.  And it also spawned the launch of many Catholic apostolates.  WYD 1993 is commemorated with plaques and a statue of Pope St. John Paul II at the Cathedral.

In a deeply personal way, I am overjoyed to celebrate this historic milestone for Colorado because of my extended family relatives in and around Denver.  I always have a good time with them because when they get together, they have great joy being in each other's presence.  I feel the family spirit whenever a shirt from Belong Designs, the apparel company that my cousin Mark co-founded.  The designs of the shirts embrace the spirit of Colorado and its mountains.

My Great Aunt Carmen's motto was "Party, party, party," and all of her children have kept up that celebration spirit.

So I'm partying today as I say Huzzah, Hurray, and Yee-haw for Colorado at 150!

A fellow participant photographed me at the festivities at the Colorado State Capitol for Colorado's 150th Anniversary of Statehood, including birthday cake.

Here is a Great Colorado scene, looking east on Colfax Boulevard in Denver with the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception on the right and the dome of the Colorado State Capitol on the left, and the Rocky Mountains far in the distance.

I was with my Great Aunt Carmen at her longtime home on the north side of Denver on her birthday on July 30, 2023, when she turned 90, in this photo taken likely by my Grandma.

Dear 1036: Celebrating Patriotically the Founding of the USA

Dearly Beloved 1036 Clarence,

July is a special time as we celebrate the Independence of the USA each year at the start of the month.

This year 2026 is special as the 250th anniversary of Independence.

For the 225th anniversary 25 years ago in 2001 , I thought it would be great to have a birthday cake to celebrate the USA.  I even asked to have candles lit.  Then we took it outside on the deck so that I could see the wind, representing the USA, blow out the candles.  It didn't happen immediately, and when I wondered aloud about what was taking so long, Dad remarked that the USA was of an advanced age, and it would take more effort at 225 years to blow out the candles.

In my middle school years, I came to more deeply appreciate the story of the founding of the USA.  That happened in large part from watching the show Liberty's Kids.  The theme song was performed by Kayla and Aaron Carter, who sung it live at the Capitol Fourth Concert on July 4, 2002, in anticipation of the show's debut on Labor Day, September 2, 2002, which was the day before I started middle school.  Our family would regularly view the Capitol Fourth concert, and that song was one of my favorite performances.

The following summer, I was at the Dole Branch Library. I discovered a book profiling the 56 signers of the Declaration of Independence.  I checked it out from the library, and I was so enthralled by the history I learned from it that I decided to buy it.  The book was a special addition to my bookshelf, and I still have it to this day.

There's something profound about reconnecting with our roots.  And so it is special every month on the 28th day to write these posts and reflect on these wonderful memories about you, Beloved 1036, at the heart of my roots as a person.

And so I declare that you shall not fade into the background, but remain ever in my heart as that dearly beloved place.

At this time of year, when the Winnebago Pow-wow is held, I think of Native American spirituality I learned from my time at St. Augustine Mission, and declare that we are ever connected:

All my relations.

God's blessings,

With joy in the Lord,

Paul

God bless the USA, my home sweet home.

Huzzah for USA from Sea to Shining Sea!

The US flag flying from the porch was always had a special patriotic touch, like on Thanksgiving weekend 2022.

Here I am posing with the US flag on the porch.

Here we are, the foursome, on Declaration of Independence Day, July 4, 2000, on the front steps.  So far as I recall, Grandma and Grandpa Rubio visited that day and one of them likely took this photo.

A Tribute to Aunt Carmen Up to the Mountains

My Great Aunt Carmen Aragon has long been a special person in my life.  The love she showed me reflects the close relationship between her and my Grandma Vel.

With Aunt Carmen at her home in 2008, a photo likely taken by Mom or Dad.

When she passed away earlier at the beginning of June, I made the 1000-mile journey once again up to the foothills of the Rockies to remember and honor her.  I rode Amtrak for this journey, which brought it full circle, since the first time I ever visited Denver, it was onboard the California Zephyr train.

Our family vacation by train looping around the western United States left a big impression on me as a little boy.  The final place we stayed was in Denver at the splendid house at 7880 Greenwood Boulevard, where my Great Aunt Carmen lived for over 50 years, sharing many of them with my Great Uncle Leonard.

After that visit in August 1997 came 4 more visits to Denver, during all of which I spent time at my Great Aunt Carmen's house.  I always experienced her abundant sense of hospitality, as she opened her home and her heart.  On August 14, 2008, I felt a strong sense of excitement as we drove from Steamboard Springs, where we had stayed for a few days, and then went to spend time at her home in Denver before returning to Chicagoland.  My excitement reached a pitch when we turned the corner and by her house.  She had a great dinner ready for us, featuring enchiladas with ground turkey wrapped in flour tortillas. 

In the summer of 2016, I traveled to Colorado and joined a family weekend getaway in the mountain town of Cripple Creek to celebrate her birthday, my first time celebrating her birthday with her.  I got there a couple days ahead before we all went to Cripple Creek.  I was so glad I had the chance to spend a whole day at Aunt Carmen's house, enjoying her company and experiencing the delight of the place.  Later that day, her son John, his wife Charlotte, and their granddaughter Jenesis arrived, and it was great sharing in their company.

She had so much on display in her home, especially family photos, and seeing myself and family foursome, along with Grandma, made me feel so good there, right at home.  She also had letter framed on a wall from her son John's commanding officer, in which she congratulated her and Uncle Leonard on their son's achievement when he became a Navy officer.

She enjoyed being around family so much, and we always had a good time when all the family members gathered together.  Her children knew how to put on a celebration for her, like the Cripple Creek birthday celebration for her, and then the grand party when she turned 90.

I had enjoyable journeys on the California Zephyr, filled with anticipation of the joy of celebrating her birthday both of those times.

Grateful for wonderful memories, while navigating grief, I boarded the California Zephyr once more on Wednesday, June 24, to head west.  Along with my travel luggage, I carried with me 20 packages of El Milagro corn tortillas, which the Aragon relatives enjoy, especially since they aren't available in stores in the Denver Metro Area.

I felt an abundance of love and warmth when I traveled to the Denver Metro Area for Great Aunt Carmen's funeral.  After arriving at Denver Union Station, I went to Holy Ghost Parish to pray before the Blessed Sacrament, kept in a temporary chapel space.  

Adoration Chapel

Holy Ghost Parish

Then I rode the G Line to the suburb of Arvada.  After detraining, as I walked along the platform toward the exit, I saw my cousin Cynthia with her husband Mark, Sr., by their car, and she was eagerly waving at me.

We went to King Soopers to shop for groceries before going to their home.  A little later, I went with Mark to pick up Mom, Dad, and Grandma.  Once we were all back at the Grubbs home, we sat around the dining room table for a meal.

Later, we went to the funeral place for the visitation.  Unlike other funeral places I've been to, I was so moved by how the design of the place looked like a chapel, and helped bring a strong sense of spirituality to mind as we gathered to honor Aunt Carmen.  The pastor of her parish, Father Nick, offered wonderful words of tribute, speaking to her strong sense of hospitality.  Then we prayed the rosary.

The next morning, we gathered at Assumption Parish, her longtime home parish.  The first time I recall going there was on the Feast of the Assumption itself back in 2008 when we visited Denver.  I went there again 3 years ago, on the eve of her 90th birthday.  Viewing began at 9 AM.  At 10 AM, Bryan, one of her 15 grandchildren, stood before the congregation to offer a speech in tribute to Aunt Carmen, which was collectively written by her 5 children, with some additions from her grandchildren.  It was a great tribute to a woman who showed so much love in her long life, with the ever present pozole available in her kitchen, and her constant connection to her sister, my Grandma Vel, and Chicago roots.  In all her years, Aunt Carmen never learned to drive a car.  Once Brian finished, the Funeral Mass began, and it was meaningful to see the rites of the Church bestowed upon Aunt Carmen.

Following Mass, we gathered at the Wishbone Restaurant in nearby Westminster.  I remember that she took our family foursome there for dinner during our 2008 visit.  I mentioned this dinner to my cousin Mark, Jr., who said she greatly enjoyed this restaurant.  The placemats were fitting for the occasion.  Lunch was a good time of visiting.

The view of the Rockies from outside Assumption Parish

The Wishbone Restaurant

Above and below are placemats at the Wishbone.

Desserts at the lunch

The visiting continued later over at my cousin Laura's house.  I stopped by for a few minutes to say goodbyes before Mark, Sr., and Dad took me over to the Pecos Junction station.  I boarded the RTD train to Union Station, where I boarded the Amtrak train back to Chicago.

Unlike the morning I arrived, when it was cloudy, skies were clear for me to enjoy the view of the sunset over the Rockies as the train headed into the High Plains.

The Rockies appear in the distance

The sunset over the High Plains of Eastern Colorado

Aunt Carmen and my Grandma Vel made this 1000-mile journey so many times over the course of decades to spend long stretches of time visiting and even participating in special events.  Once, Grandma went on that journey by car and brought Buddy, the dog, with her, to spend a winter in Denver with Aunt Carmen, who was such a gracious host to Buddy.  I also recall when Aunt Carmen and many in her family came to Chicagoland when my cousin Brian graduated from Navy boot camp, including my cousin John, who was present in his Navy officer uniform.

Aunt Carmen and Grandma Vel would go out on the town, like outings to Navy Pier in Chicago.  One time, Aunt Carmen was in town and attended my piano recital.  I then went back with Grandma and Aunt Carmen to spend a night with them, and the next day, we all visited the Chicago History Museum.  Another time, Dad, Grandma, Aunt Carmen, and I went to visit the Shrine of Christ's Passion in St. John, IN.  I also recall Grandma and Aunt Carmen went to Springfield, IL, for a few days.

Aunt Carmen had a way of enjoying life and a few good laughs, too.  For these memories, I give thanks for Aunt Carmen's presence in my life.

Aunt Carmen and me on the day she turned 90 before we departed for her party.  Grandma likely took this photo as we waited for my cousin Mark Sr. to pick us up.  It was a great memory to join Aunt Carmen and Grandma for the car ride to the grand party.

Patriotic Greetings 2026: The Power of Principles for 250 Years

Patriotic Greetings! Independence Day Greetings! Happy 250th Birthday USA! Huzzah!

We circle back, as we've done now for 250 years, to celebrate the important days of the beginning of July that are at the heart of the founding of the United States of America.  It is a momentous story of what led to those days and what resulted from them.

After Britain emerged victorious from multiple years of war with France in 1763, a big shift occurred on the North American continent.  Britain began meddling more in colonial affairs, particularly through increased taxation.  Colonists protested such infringements because they had no representation in Parliament that decided on the taxes.  Eventually, warfare began on April 19, 1775, near Boston, Massachusetts.

Over the course of another year, momentum for independence of the colonies increased in the Continental Congress.  On Friday, June 7, 1776, Virginia delegate Richard Henry Lee made this historic proposal: "Resolved. That these United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and independent States, that they are absolved from all allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain is, and ought to be, totally dissolved."

While Congress took a few weeks to consider it, a committee was formed to draft a statement should Congress vote to approve independence.  Thomas Jefferson was the primary author.

On July 1, Congress resumed debate, and after several hours, most of the colonies favored independence, but the Congress hadn't reached unanimity.  They decided to hold another vote the following day.  Several circumstances came together overnight and on the following day, Tuesday, July 2, 1776, Congress voted unanimously to approve the independence resolution.  Subsequently, the delegates discussed the draft statement.  On Thursday, July 4, 1776, they adopted the Declaration of Independence.  Its first public reading was on July 8.

War continued for several more years, and after a decisive American victory at Yorktown, owing to help from the French forces, the focus turned toward a treaty.  On September 3, 1783, the Treaty of Paris 1783 was official, and the USA became an independent country.

There is something so inspiring about this story, and I find it meaningful throughout the month of June to read a wonderful book, which is basically a museum in a book, telling the story of the events that led to Independence, with some content that describes what came afterward.

It's also a profound opportunity to connect with this story whenever I visit the Old Pennsylvania Statehouse, Independence Hall in Philadelphia.  I fulfilled my desire to visit there after a long wait when I made my first visit there 10 years ago last month.  Since June 11, 2016, I have toured it 3 times, and I never tire of doing so.  Each tour offers a different narration based on the tour guide leading it.  Furthermore, being in that place that was the setting for such pivotal events inspires a sense of patriotism in me.

It's just like when I visit the Charters of Freedom in the Rotunda of the National Archives Museum in Washington, D.C. I always make a point of visiting there during each trip to WDC.  This past May, I kept feeling drawn to walk about to look at the documents one more time, like I couldn't get enough of viewing them.  And I was particularly struck when I gazed at the Declaration of Independence and let the reality sink in that the piece of paper is 250 years old and continues to hold a sense of power because of the principles it conveys.  Watching the episode of Liberty's Kids on independence, a big idea that surfaces is the power of words, which is why great effort was made to craft the language of the Declaration.  And these words still hold great power today.

There's something certainly distinct about this year's celebration as we mark 250 years since the Congress voted for independence and adopted the Declaration of Independence.  As we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Independence of the United States, I am particularly inspired by the reality that this country came into existence grounded in principles.  And instead of one figure overseeing the government like the monarchies that existed at the time, a government empowered by the whole of the people would uphold these principles.  There is so much that has happened in US history in which experiences have been held in common.

I thought about these principles when I listened to Bishop Barron's oration at the Rededicate America 250 event on May 17 in Washington, D.C.  He is such a gifted person, especially in preaching Truth, Beauty, and Goodness that God reveals in our world.  On that day, he spoke masterfully about how the founding principles of the USA point toward the transcendent reality of God, Who has created us inherently free.  Yet we can only live in freedom truly if we do so with a sense of moral responsibility that is indicated by moral law so that freedom leads to true human flourishing.  Indeed, we need virtues to uphold the great gift of our founding principles, especially liberty and freedom, just like John Adams wrote, "Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people".  

These ideas were also prevalent during the Zeale for America 250 Rally hosted by CatholicVote on June 13, in LaCrosse, WI.  (The video of the entire event, about 3 hours long, is available for viewing here.) Cardinal Burke spoke and offered an insightful idea about patriotism, which is love of country, based on an awareness that the country is an important defender of the common good.  Truly, we love our country because it has the role of upholding the good of all people, safeguarding the freedom that is ours because God has created us to be free.  When we live in freedom, guided by virtue, we truly flourish.

It was so fitting that the US bishops consecrated the USA to the Sacred Heart of Jesus as part of this 250th Anniversary year.  The Sacred Heart reveals love to us, and gives us an example of how we can love by edifying each other by willing the good of one another.  In serving each other this way, we truly flourish as a people in the freedom that God has granted us.  We furthermore flourish when we support our freedoms with virtues, so that we can fulfill our moral responsibility in using our freedom for a greater good beyond ourselves that honors God because it shows respect for people who bear His image.  We give thanks for the freedom we experience in this country, which is a gift and a responsibility.

In reaction to the Congressional vote that approved independence, John Adams wrote to his wife Abigail, "The Second Day of July 1776, will be the most memorable Epocha, in the History of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated, by succeeding Generations, as the great anniversary Festival. It ought to be commemorated, as the Day of Deliverance by solemn Acts of Devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more."

Even as circumstances unfolded so that July 4 became the national holiday, I embrace this time of year as an opportunity to reconnect with the narrative of the steps that led to the founding of the United States of America, and how we can continue participating in what happened 250 years.

This holiday gives us so much to celebrate, and in a distinctly profound way this year.  We live in a great country founded in timeless principles, and we have the opportunity to exercise those for a greater good.  These principles started a nation, and they have contributed throughout 2 1/2 centuries over hundreds of miles of land, encompassing so many cultures.  In fact, many people from throughout the world coming to the World Cup games in the USA have greatly enjoyed experiences of US culture, including brisket sandwich, "Country Roads Take Me Home", and Buc-ee's.

Over 20 years ago, my Grandma's friend gave me a USA tour video, and I enjoyed it so much the first time that it's become an annual tradition to watch on July 2 or at some other point in the summer to celebrate the birthday of the USA.  The video reminds me of the vast breadth of places and cultures in our country, all tied together by our founding principles, and I feel inspired by how wonderful this country is.  The principles of our independence have great potential to offer us more as we take up the call to use freedom for a greater, transcendent purpose by which we may all flourish.

I hope you all feel the patriotic spirit that birthed a nation in a particularly special way on this 250th Anniversary of US independence, throughout the rest of 2026, and beyond.

God bless the beautiful United States of America!

Huzzah!

Go USA! USA! USA!

For our amazing country,

Paul

My first visit to Independence Hall, inside the Assembly Room.

During my most recent visit to Independence Hall, on May 23, 2025.

During my most recent visit to the Charters of Freedom in the National Archives museum in Washington, D.C., taken by my Dad.

Inside the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, dedicated to the Patroness Saint of the USA, taken by a fellow visitor.

I'm standing beside the Freedom 250 Mobile Museum, parked by the LaCrosse Center when I was there for the rally on June 13, in a photo taken by a fellow visitor. 

P.S. On the morning of July 4 at 9 AM CT, I plan to watch the ceremony at the National Archives, which you can view here.

This post is my annual Patriotic Greetings reflection, which I have published electronically on my blog since 2013.  If you would like a paper copy, please let me know.

Dear 1036: Among Those We Welcomed

Dearly Beloved 1036 Clarence,

It's June, so it's time for June tunes.

Thinking about the centennial of Andy Griffith's birthday at the start of this month, I recall how enjoyable it was when we sat down to watch an episode of The Andy Griffith Show, starting with that delightful whistling tune.  Then we entered the lives of the characters in Mayberry in all their variety: Barney's exuberance, Opie's youthful energy, Aunt Bee's down-to-earth approach in cooking and other domestic matters, and Andy's calm demeanor that could set everything straight.

I recall one episode when two ladies from a historical society discovered that Otis was the descendant of someone who committed an act of great valor and bravery during the War of the American Revolution.  The Mayor of Mayberry wasn't pleased that Otis, with his unsavory reputation, would get an award.  Fortunately, everything was set straight for the hometown hero and Mayberry by the time of the plaque presentation.

In the spirit of Fathers' Day that we celebrated a week ago, The Andy Griffith Show was a great example of something my Dad enjoyed for years and then passed on the experience to me.

Just as we welcomed the lives of another world into you, so we welcomed special people into you.  In the wake of Aunt Carmen's passing, I thought about the memories I have of her.  Even though she lived in Denver, she often returned to Chicago to reconnect with her roots, and I can recall that she came to see us at 1036 at least twice.  On September 17, 2017, she came with Abuela for dinner.  Eric and Naomi came, too.  The seven of us had a great meal together.

Buddy, the dog, stayed with us many times.  Once, Abuela had some roof work done at her home, and while it was happening, she felt it would be good for Buddy to stay with us.  One June weekday afternoon, she randomly arrived with her friend Bridget to drop off Buddy.

Mom returned home from work later that day and opened the garage service door to enter the yard.  As I stood at the top of the stairs leading to the back entrance of the house, I could see Buddy scurrying along the walkway from the alley to the yard.  Mom didn't realize he was there until he reached the yard, and Mom reacted as she called out, "Buddy", signaling that she suddenly realized he was there.

There was great delight in welcoming others to our home, so that we could share our love, joy, and happiness in that place with those who came.  Even as we get ready to celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the Independence of the USA, I recall gathering family together to celebrate in the patriotic spirit with an outdoor cookout-style meal with food cooked on the grill.

I continue to rejoice in recalling these memories of you, 1036, and sharing them with others.

For you shall not fade into the background, but remain deep in my heart as that dearly beloved place where I experience a distinct sense of love.

We are ever connected:

All my relations.

With gladness, gratitude, and joy,

God's blessings,

Paul