09/13/2010 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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Constitution Week Page 2 of 3 outlines the self - government of a people. This landmark idea that men had the inalienable right as individuals to be free and live their lives under their own governance was the impetus of the American Revolution. Today, the Constitution stands as an icon of freedom for people around the world. "Constitution Week is the perfect opportunity to read and study this great document which is the safeguard of our American liberties," states DAR President General, Linda Gist Calvin. "We encourage all citizens across the country to take time this week to reflect on our heritage of freedom." DAR has served America for 117 years as its foremost cheerleader. In 1928, the Daughters began work on a building as a memorial to the Constitution. John Russell Pope, architect of the Jefferson Memorial, was commissioned to design the performing arts center, known as DAR Constitution Hall. Today, DAR Constitution Hall is the only structure erected in tribute to the Constitution of the United States of America. Known as the largest women's patriotic organization in the world, DAR has over 165,000 members with approximately 3,000 chapters in all 50 states and 11 foreign countries. The DAR has long promoted patriotism through commemorative celebrations, memorials, scholarships and activities for children, and programs for new immigrants. For more information about DAR and its programs visit www.dar.org or call (202) 628 -1776. http://mysite.verizon.net/scotchtowndar/id 17.html3 6 - Constitution Week? Constitution Week was officially declared by President Eisenhower on August 2, 1956. This was the culmination of a proposal the DAR sent through Senator William F. Knowland of California. Is there a memorial honoring the Constitution? Yes. DAR Constitution Hall in Washington, D.C. The inscription on the pediment reads, "Constitution Hall — a memorial to that immortal document, the Constitution of the United States, in which are incorporated the principles of freedom, equality and justice for which our forefathers strove." DAR Constitution Hall is the only structure dedicated to the U.S. Constitution. How can I celebrate Constitution Week? • Provide local media with the Constitution Week press release and FAQ sheet. • Encourage your local government representatives to issue a proclamation about Constitution Week. • Ask the school principals in your community to observe Constitution Week by issuing a school proclamation encouraging staff to teach the Constitution. • Urge children to study the Constitution with their personal proclamation pledge. • Contact your local DAR chapter and invite them to give a program on the Constitution. Today's DAR video _ clip 8/25/2010