SAN ANTONIO — One short mile from where three people were shot overnight, neighbors in Highland Park gathered to celebrate Independence Day and reflect on the challenges the country faced then and now.
For the seventh year in a row, neighborhood resident and Vietnam veteran Tom Wetzler donned historical dress to portray a messenger from the Second Continental Congress to read the Declaration of Independence.
As a friendly dog lounged in the shady grass and sisters Esther and Ruth blew bubble wands in the breeze, Wetzler told the small group of enthusiastic attendees that the message of freedom is more important than ever.
"I believe these words apply to events of the day as much as they applied when they were first published as we have a responsibility to recommit ourselves, just as the people who went before us," Wetzler said. "Oftentimes people wring their hands and clutch their pearls about how terrible everything is but understand, much of this is not new!"
Wetzler said remaining active in civic affairs, especially at the neighborhood level, is critical.
"We as a nation have faced greater challenges and greater threats and it is up to us to decide who are we. What kind of people are we? Will we hide under the bed or will be involved in the events of the day?" Wetzler said.
Neighborhood Association Secretary Greg Ripps expressed pride in his group, which hosts monthly meetings at the nearby Bode Community Center.
"We are all very active in the neighborhood," Ripps said. "I think it is time that we understand more about the basics of our nation so we are reminding people what Independence Day is all about."
Ripps said, "This is the kind of thing that should draw people together."
Neighbor Grace Marengo brought her family.
"I come every year to bring my kiddos and I think it's really important to remember what this day is about. I mean hot dogs and stuff are nice but remembering what we celebrate is really important," Marengo said.
Gina Davison agreed, saying participation in civic life is crucial at every level. "We are at risk of losing our freedom," Davison said "This is where it starts. People rush out for the presidential election but it starts local."
The Highland Park Neighborhood Association meets on second Wednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the Bode Community Center at 901 Rigsby Ave. in Highland Park.
Wetzler said, "If you want to be aware and get involved in the neighborhood, that's the place to go."
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