OPINION — Two hundred fifty years ago, the Continental Congress declared May 17, 1776, a day of prayer and hope for the new, emerging, independent nation’s future. Two hundred fifty years later, President Trump announced that Sunday, May 17, 2026, would be a day for the nation to unite and “Rededicate 250” as a day of jubilee and prayer.
Following President Trump’s announcement, a Fountain Hills volunteer committee, including myself, was organized to make it happen. During one of our meetings, I suggested everyone attending be offered a small American flag. On that day, nearly 200 united to memorialize this occasion, all waving American flags.
After the program commenced, I was seated, alone, back from the last row. Here, without interrupting the observance, I still could offer late arrivals their flag.