Donna Dobkowski, second from left, brought her daughters Anna, 12, and Kristen, 14, to the Historical Society of the Merricks’ reading of the U.S. Declaration of Independence on the Fourth of July at the Merrick Avenue gazebo. Right, Historical Society President Lawrence Garfinkel has organized the annual event for many years.
Donovan Berthoud/Herald Life
The Merrick Chorale, led by Rita Gilley, left, and her husband, Richard, right, sang patriotic songs.
Donovan Berthoud/Herald Life
Ailda Wang and her daughter Fiona, 8, took part in the festivities.
Donovan Berthoud/Herald Life
Kristen Dobkowski read from a copy of the Declaration.
Donovan Berthoud/Herald Life
Richard Gilley wore a U.S. Capitol necktie, and Rita Gilley a red, white and blue kerchief.
As they first did in the summer of 1776, local townsfolk gathered last week to hear the words of Thomas Jefferson declaring America’s original 13 colonies free and independent states.
A few dozen people attended the Historical Society of the Merricks’ traditional reading of the U.S. Declaration of Independence on the Fourth of July at the Merrick Avenue gazebo. It was a patriotic occasion, with many decked out in red, white and blue and displaying American flags. The Merrick Chorale also performed The Star-Spangled Banner.
