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Beacon marks 16th annual public reading of the Declaration of Independence
Summary
Beacon’s Declaration Committee held its 16th annual public reading, featuring a recitation of the Declaration, a reading of the poem 'Old Glory,' local-history remarks, and community giveaways led by committee chair Dennis Pavlok.
Dennis Pavlok, chair of the Declaration Committee, opened Beacon’s 16th annual public reading on July 4 with housekeeping instructions and community recognitions before beginning a public recitation of the Declaration of Independence.
The program included a poem reading and a complete recitation of the Declaration. A presenter read the poem 'Old Glory,' saying, "I am the flag of The United States Of America, and my name is Old Glory." Pavlok then read the Declaration’s preamble aloud, describing the document’s principles that "all men are created equal" and the colonies’ right to dissolve political ties when government becomes destructive. The reading of the Declaration’s list of grievances continued with a second reader who recited the historic list of complaints against the British Crown.
The event was largely ceremonial and community-focused: Pavlok thanked volunteers, recognized committee members, and invited audience participation for trivia and giveaways. He told attendees the committee formed in 2011 and handed out certificates of appreciation to community volunteers. After the reading the event proceeded to a brief Q&A, a gift-card raffle and cake.
The program concluded with sponsor acknowledgments and informal social time. No formal votes or policy actions were taken during the ceremony.
