Colville, WA – About one hundred citizens gathered on the Stevens County Courthouse lawn July 4 in the evening to celebrate Independence Day with a reading of our nation’s founding documents. 

The 90-minute program included an opening prayer by Chaplain Matt Pecquex, a reading of the Declaration of Independence by Todd Spradlin, a presentation of colors and flag salute led by James Willis and his Scouts, a singing of the National Anthem led by William (on violin) and Anabelle Ames (on guitar), and a full reading of the Constitution.

Local candidates Andrew Engell, Hunter Abell, René Holaday and Smitty Hagopian participated in the reading of the Constitution, along with a dozen other citizens ranging in age from eleven to octogenarian. Many whole families came to enjoy the event.

Afterward, attendees enjoyed visiting while several students of bluegrass instructor Richard Eich (read about this program on page 10 of this newspaper) played music.

The event was organized this year by Dave Hewes, Dave Robinson and Lisa Shinn (of Coffee & Books in Town Center), and Shinn gifted each family attending with a pocket Constitution to read along.

“We have an exceptional Declaration and Constitution,” said Shinn, “but they are only pieces of old paper if we don’t embrace the principles and wisdom written on them that led to the civil and religious liberties
admired around the world.”