Let's rewind 400 years. It's 1607 and three ships have just arrived in the New World. The king sent this group of about 100 men to establish the first permanent English colonial settlement in North America. This is Jamestown, a meager fort precariously setup on the banks of the James River, just upstream of the Chesapeake Bay in Virginia.

From an ungainly beginning of disease, fire, and lousy relations with local natives, the great American experiment was born. A government represented by its citizens, an economic system where businesses freely compete, and an open exchange of ideas among a diverse people. Jamestown was the foundation for modern America and still influences our nation today.

So with 2007 just around the corner, my home state is getting this birthday party off to a grand start. One of the three ships, the Godspeed, is taking an east coast tour with a stop here in New York City over the holiday weekend. And I have the privilege of serving as a host for this "landing party."

Throughout the day on July 4th, you can come find me working at the Godspeed and the surrounding exhibits on display at South Street Seaport. Please stop by... I'll be giving tours from 11-4pm. I'd love to show you around and share a bit of what makes me proud to be a part of the rich tapestry we call America!