As the United States celebrates its 250th birthday this weekend, many of its residents can sense the big, ideologically divided elephant in the room.  But while the country reckons with its national identity, on a local level, Americans continue to come together in ways that transcend politics, as they have for generations. We asked you, our readers, to tell us about the places where your community puts aside political ideology and rekindles its sense of togetherness, despite it all. From local news festivals and tea in the park, to porch parties and “punk rope,” here are some of your words and photos. The post In It for the Long Haul appeared first on Reasons to be Cheerful.