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Today marks the 223th anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Constitution at Independence Hall in Philadelphia.
At 4 p.m., Bells Across America will ring loud and clear to promote awareness of this historic event throughout our nation. I invite everyone to participate.
Since 1956, the U.S. Congress has designated the week of Sept. 17-23 each year as Constitution Week. The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution promotes this annual celebration to encourage study of the events which led to the framing of this historic document, to emphasize each citizen's responsibilities for protecting and defending the Constitution, as well as to share information about the basis of America's great heritage.
I vividly recall reciting the preamble to the Constitution for Evelyn Hill's fifth-grade social studies class at Enota Elementary in the '60s. Today, school children view webinars broadcast from Independence Hall as part of their classroom experience.
Gainesville Mayor Ruth Bruner and Gov. Sonny Perdue have signed Proclamations designating Sept. 17-23 as Constitution Week. Please take time and consider the oldest document still in use that outlines the self-government of a people.
I urge everyone to celebrate our freedom and shared beliefs set forth in the Constitution. Use this opportunity to study and reflect on this amazing document. Grateful for the sacrifices of our forefathers and those who defend our country today, we alone shoulder the responsibility of passing liberty to future generations.
Fly your American flags this week and remember how blessed we are to be the people of the United States.
Helen R. Powell
Constitution Week Chairman, Col. William Candler Chapter, NSDAR, Gainesville