Congratulations and Happy Semiquincentennial

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Hello, Friends.

It’s summertime, and the language is easy.  

This summer it is back to basics with a twist (presented in a different or unusual way). Fire up (get excited or start something) some new techniques to kick up (get stronger) and crank up (get more intense or louder) communication skills and language learning. Understand language and language learning to grow.

We are going to go back to basics in honor of 250th anniversary of the United States. Learn the language of our founding documents and compare the words and styles to today's (current) language.

Words for a Reason. Words for a Season.

Vocabulary is what vocabulary is. 

What is vocabulary? A list of words specific to a person, situation, or topic. So, what words do you need and what words do you use. And then how do you find and use them? 

There are words you use for times of fun.

There are words you use to get stuff done.

May is for graduations and congratulations.

Say congrats to the kids throwing their hats.

Play with your words:

Repeat a phrase and end with a rhyme

Count the beats to keep the time.

Semiquincentennial, Bisesquicentennial, Sestercentennial

These grand and auspicious words are the title for the celebration of 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of the United States. Can you pronounce them? Ask a native American language speaker. Get ready for good giggle. American English words are made of combinations of other words (often from other languages). These three words are great examples of this type of word. And they will only be important until July 4, 2027 when the United States turns 251 years old.

Semiquincentennial: the Roman way to say halfway to 500 years

Semi: half of

Quin: five

Centennial: 100-year anniversary

Bisesqui: twice 150

Centennial: 100-year

Ses (from semi): meaning half

Tercentennial: three hundredth anniversary

literally signifying a two hundred fiftieth anniversary

Semiquincentennial, Bisesquicentennial, Sestercentennial, or Quarter Millennium: all mean 250th anniversary. 

America250 or America at 250 are two other titles.

Fun read resources (not found by AI)

Why “Semiquincentennial” for Norfolk’s 250th?--Notice that what makes David S. Potter credible is that he is the son of longtime residents of Norfolk.

The Meaning of the ​​Semiquincentennial--This historical six-minute read provides the historical background along with a prospective perspective. Look at the bottom of the screen. There is a button to listen to a perfect broadcaster read of the article.

Rage and the Republic by Jonathan Turley 

This book provides insight into the American (and other revolutions). The United States is in a new era of AI and robotics and radical reformers who are calling to scrap our Constitution. Turley "offers a hopeful account of how the lessons of the past can guide us into the future." Listen on the Libby libery app.

The Declaration of Independence

Read the Declaration of Independence in its original language. This fancy language is not common, but the sentiment that drove the founding fathers (yes, they were all men) to organize the ideas and wishes into these phrases. 

Storytelling and American History

Beyond the Headlines: Veteran Stories, June 26, 2:00-4:00 PM A panel of veterans will share stories  with some going back to the Revolutionary War. Learn how communication and technology have evolved and shaped our military. Bring the family.