Constitution Day Celebration

It's time for the annual Redlands Constitution Day Celebration. Join the community for the fourth annual celebration of the signing of the U.S. Constitution, Saturday, Sept 13 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Lincoln Memorial Shrine, located at 125 W. Vine St. in Redlands. Admission is free. Step back in time to Colonial America with a performance by the Mountain Fifes and Drums, visit the Sons of American Revolution Encampment, and even meet General George Washington and James Madison. The Lincoln Shrine will showcase a special exhibit just for Constitution Day. Presented by the 4400 Project, Terri Wimer, 4400 Project Director explained, “One of the best parts of Constitution Day is introducing people to one of the jewels of the Inland Empire – The Lincoln Memorial Shrine.” The 2014 theme is, “We The People; Citizens in a Republic” and with that attendees will have the opportunity to participate in the responsibility of citizens by learning about our Constitution, writing their representative, and voting. “Kids especially, will have the opportunity to participate in the entire process. We thought it would be fun to incorporate the car show into the “election” and have people pick the one that best represents them, just like they would do with a real candidate,” explained Wimer. They will register, get a sample ballot, learn about candidates (cars), step up to an official voting booth, cast their ballot into an official ballot box, and get their “I Voted” sticker just like in real life. It’s not just about learning. “It’s a fun family day with something for everyone,” Wimer said. Everyone is encouraged to spend the day and enjoy live music and performances, play games, enjoy free crafts, savor mouthwatering foods all while immersing yourself in the spirit of America. There is a great musical lineup. Performances include crowd favorites, the national award winning Mountain Fifes and Drums, 1940’s style, three-part harmony of the Lindy Sisters with a special salute to our troops, and rock and roll favorites by Tone Daddy. For an extra special treat, get your cameras and video ready for a special afternoon performance by Citrus Valley High School Blackhawk Theater Company! Wimer said, “You do not want to miss this!” The wonder of American ingenuity will be on display at the All-American Car Show where you can see everything from Model T’s to Hot Rods and vote for your favorite. Enjoy great food from food trucks including Twister Tator, Mustache Mikes, Mom’s Mini Donuts, and other carnival type food. Play all new games and activities for kids of all ages, and create a free colonial and patriotic craft. “This is not just a Redlands event. People from a variety of areas attend, and even our committee members are from all over the Inland Empire. We have teachers who send their students for extra credit and Scout troops earning badges,” stated Wimer. “As best as we can tell, there is no other Constitution Day Celebration like ours anywhere. We are very proud of what we’ve put together, and happy to have it here in Redlands.” This event has recently garnered attention from other communities wanting to put on a similar celebration, and Knotts Berry Farm who is interested in bringing this to their Independence Hall. Sponsors for Constitution Day include Clark’s Nutrition, Graves & King, Beaver Medical Group, Craig & Sons Termite and Pest Control, Subaru of Ontario, Arthur’s Commercial Press, Gallagher's Finishing Touch Engraving, Heemstra Signs, Burgeson’s Heating and Air, and many more. Volunteers and donations welcome. Bring the whole family, a blanket or some comfy chairs, and enjoy the day under the shade trees with great food, live music, fun activities, and immerse yourself in the spirit of America! Learn more about Constitution Day and the 4400 Project at 4400Project.org and Facebook.com/4400Project.