OUR BIRTH CERTIFICATE

In honor of this weeks 4th of July Holiday I thought it would be good to remind ourselves of the document that started a revolution that began our great nation. The sacrifice of the signers should make us appreciate the freedoms we all have today.

What is the greatest document ever written by man? Many would immediately identify the Bible, but Gods Word was not written solely by man. It was divinely inspired, meaning it had dual authorship. The Bible was written by God and man.Some would say that the Magna Carta signed by the English King John was the greatest document because it provided liberty for England.Some would even say the United States Constitution is the greatest document ever penned by man, and it is a great. But I believe the greatest document written by humans in the history of mankind is the Declaration of Independence, the birth certificate of the United States of America. Now the United States Constitution is a magnificent document and no nation in history has such a charter of incorporation. But, the Constitution is, in reality, an outgrowth of the Declaration of Independence---and could never have been written without the courageous and brilliant composition of our national birth certificate. Listen to these words: "We hold these truths to be self evident: That all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness." (Signed August 2, 1776.) And these concluding words: "And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."And 56 American heroes signed it... for which many of them paid with their lives and fortunes."Yes, I believe this is the greatest document ever written -- not for its beauty, even though it is penned in beautiful, prosaic English; not for its simplicity and clarity, although it is understood by the smallest child; and not for its judicial logic, though lawyers and courts still examine it thoroughly and often for its legal brilliance.

I believe the Declaration of Independence is the greatest document ever written because of what it has produced. The Declaration of Independence is a soul-liberating document that has revolutionized the world.The Declaration of Independence is the greatest document because: It promised the greatest good; It influenced the greatest number of people; It provided the greatest quality of life; It gave birth to the greatest nation and that nation provided the greatest freedom in history; and...it led to the greatest advancement in the civilization of mankind this world has ever known. As you examine these self-evident truths, you will discover that our founding fathers believed in four basic Christian tenets; and they included their Christian beliefs in their declaration of independence. What did they believe? 1. They believed in a Creator. 2. They believed God created them in His own image. 3. They believed that Gods supernatural act (i.e. the miracle and sanctity of life) to create mankind should continue to be extended to every person. 4. They believed in absolute truth which they called inalienable rights or self-evident truths.America is blessed with this foundational document.

We are also blessed with the faith of the founding fathers. What our nation needs more then ever is a rededication to God, the Bible and the Declaration of Independence.Remember, all the signers suffered greatly, so we could enjoy so much. Think on these things as you enjoy the freedom that the signers granted us some 231 years ago.

Note: Don't forget to join your community on the Enfield Town Green this weekend as we celebrate the 4th of July holiday. What better way to honor our heritage and celebrate our community then at the Enfield Celebration. See ya there!
Greg Stokes

ENFIELDS GREATEST WEEKEND

Okay this week I am going to cheat and let the Enfield 4th of July Celebration web site speak for itself. The opening page of the web site, www.Enfieldcelebration.org, gives us all an overview of all the activities going on the weekend of July 6,7, and 8th.
My wife, Dawn, and I have supported this event for the past few years as family sponsors. We do this because we believe it is the best 4th of July event in our area. The Committee and Volunteers give their all to bring to our community a fun filled weekend. Thank you to all of the people involved!
This year our church will have a booth on the Town Green to introduce our ministry to our community. I hope you stop by and say hello to some of the wonderful people at Cornerstone Church.
Okay, enough of the self-serving promotion of our church. Here is the information on the web site dedicated to informing us about Enfields greatest weekend.
“The Enfield Fourth Of July Town Celebration attracts people from all over the east coast. The annual celebration of our nation's independence features FREE entertainment of both local and nationally known recording artists, 'The Taste of Enfield', a 5K road race, craft fair, parade, free kids activities, and fireworks display on Sunday night.
This year's line up is filled with a diverse group of local musicians and nationally recognized recording artists such as the founding member of FOREIGNER, Lou Gramm. This Rock legend has one of the most distinctive voices in music and has sold over 80 million albums, and has 20 Top 40 singles! Lou Gramm will headline this year's Celebration on Saturday night along with the acclaimed Big Shot, who is back by popular demand performing their tribute to Billy Joel.
The Celebration will open on Friday Night with its traditional Ribbon Cutting and fitting performance by the Encore School for Strings. Afterwards the excitement will build with Enfield's own Quintera opening up for one of Rock-and-Roll's must see powerhouse shows, Rick Derringer followed by Edgar Winter.
The Hartford Symphony will return on Sunday Night under the direction of Edward Cumming who will conduct an Independence Day Celebration program that includes pieces from Gershwin, Copland, Sousa and of course Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture! The Hartt School of Music will perform just prior to the Symphony with a collection of their award winning compositions in addition to some well-known classic jazz ensembles.
On Sunday evening we will honor this year's Patriot Award winner, and once the sun goes down, the fireworks will go up! Set to a one-of-a-kind musical score, the "world famous Zambelli Fireworks" will choreograph this year's fireworks, which will surely have an emotional impact on all.
The Fourth Of July Town Celebration Committee was founded in 1985 with the sole purpose of providing an old-fashioned family oriented weekend celebration. The mission of the not-for-profit committee was then and still to this day, is to provide all children's rides and games, activities, entertainment and fireworks, for free.
We hope you take the time to visit us on the Town Green. Each year you can see some new and different activities and there is always something happening, day or night! If you have any questions or concerns please contact one of our committee members. We are looking to make the celebration the best it can be!
All donations received and funds generated during the weekend are reinvested into the Celebration and various charities. The Celebration Committee is made up of 21 all volunteer staff and supported by over 200 weekend volunteers. Be a star and become a Celebration volunteer”.

There you have it. Now, make your plans to be on the Town Green all weekend long. It is the best way to celebrate our nation’s independence and our community. See ya there!

SEARCH FOR STEPHANOS…AN EMOTIONAL JOB


“No stone was unturned”, that was the words of Chief of Police, Carl Sferrazza in the search for Stephanos Rodriguez. As search that ended in tragedy with boy having drowned in the Connecticut River.

I know the entire town sends their prayers and thoughts to Stephanos mother and family. We cannot imagine the pain they have felt during this time.

From my observation the Enfield Police and area Fire Department had long days and sleepless nights in the search. Their desire to bring this boy home is not just a duty of job, but a passion for their community.

The local emergency teams that respond to these types of events have a difficult job to say the least. The police, firemen, and women prepare daily to protect and serve our community. However, is there really an emotional preparation for searching for a missing child?

The people who we call first responders all have families, many of which are children. It would be impossible to detach your emotions from the job that you have been called to do.

With each tip or new information brings an adrenaline rush of hope. Then as the information does not result in success the emotions have to be suppressed and the work begins all over again.

I am sure that every time the phone rings the officers and firemen all jump with anticipation to hear positive news. But, then it becomes surreal when there is no news. Can you imagine the emotional roller coaster these great people go through in times like this?

I write about this topic because we need to, as a community, express our appreciation for law enforcement and fire personnel. These brave citizens have a tough job and their emotions are strained often as they seek to protect us.

To make matters even worse the report has been that another young teen observed Stephanos fall into the river. The name of the young person is unknown due to him being a minor. I am sure his family is dealing with the emotional effects of this event and the boy will have a lifetime of reflection about this tragedy.

I think it is important to talk about teaching our kids to inform authorities, quickly, when something like this happens. I am not sure why he waited. Maybe fear of being somewhere he was not supposed to be that day. Who knows?

The best thing we can do is instruct our kids that they will not be in trouble for doing the right thing when they face a dangerous situation.

I want also to speak to the friends and fellow students at John F. Kennedy Middle School. We as your community know the emotion you had to deal with when you heard of Stephanos death. You may be still feeling the pain of his death, and the confusion of how this could happen.

Remember, you have teachers and counselors standing by to talk to you at any time. The Police Officer assigned to your school is also available to help you cope with this event. Your family Minister is also a great source of strength for you and your family. Of course your parents are the best people to go to when you need assistance dealing with all this.

No matter who you go to, know that there are people who care for you and are willing to answer questions, and give comfort.

Stephanos was blessed with a family that loved him, teachers that cared about him, friends that like hanging with him, and a community that grieved his loss. May God bless Stephanos Rodriguez.
As I began this article I mentioned the Police, Firemen, and Emergency worker that aided in the search for this teen. We know you did everything possible to find Stephanos.

Let us also keep in prayer the people who were involved in the search. Their job is incredibly tough. Nevertheless, they are up to the task and their efforts are greatly appreciated.

RILEY’S 69TH “TOMORROW STARS”


On the weekend of June 1-3, 2007 the Riley School of Dance presented their annual dance recital at Fermi High School. Once again it was a show to be remembered.

The show begins with a memorial tribute to founder Marion Walsh Riley. It was her vision that has carried the Riley Dance School to the premier dance school that it is today.

This has become a family passion with K.T. Riley DaSilva director and lead teacher. Along with K.T you will find Alicia Riley actively involved, heading up the “Life of Riley Open.” This is a golf outing named after Marion Walsh Riley and for the purpose of granting scholarships for worthy students. You will also see Brenna DaSilva sharing her talents as a teacher, and Cassie DaSilva, although living in California, showed up to support the dancers at Rileys.

The show has a professional tone to it. Having been to Broadway a number of times I have to say that I sit at this recital with the anticipation of what is coming next.

The show began with a tribute to New Orleans. Last year the Riley Dance School raised thousands of dollars to send supplies to the St. Anthony’s School devastated by hurricane Katrina. This year K.T Riley DaSilva and Staff will head to that area to hold Dance Training Camps to bring joy to the students at St. Anthony.

This past April the Riley Dancers were invited to travel to Florida to perform at Disney World, Sea World and, Universal Studio Theme Park. This has become a Tri-Annual event and, gives the Riley Dance Teams the incredible opportunity to show their talents to the world. They did an excellent job as representatives of Enfield, and North Central Connecticut.

So why is the Riley School of Dance so successful? Well, because it offers more then just dance lessons. It offers student’s life’s lessons, along with training them to excel in a multiple of dance styles.

The schools involvement in caring for the displaced people of New Orleans is a great example of how the young people of today are taught the importance of giving back. The efforts last year for St. Anthony’s School teach that when you are blessed in life, you have a responsibility to bless others.

The St. Anthony School was sent supplies to assist them to get back to educating their students. The partnership between the dance school and the school in New Orleans inspired many of us who gave to this cause. It showed the students in Enfield that they can make a difference in the world around them.

The trip to Florida also has given our kids an opportunity to not only dance, but also learn what being an ambassador for good is all about. As the students travel to perform, they are encouraged to remember that they represent our fine town.

There are many excellent programs for your kids to get involved in Enfield. Kids can enjoy Little League baseball, summer camps through the ERFC, and all the wonderful programs at the Recreation Center in Thompsonville.

However, come the Fall season I would recommend the Riley School of Dance for those who love to dance. Your children will learn multiple areas of dance and in June 2008 you will sit in the audience with family and friends watching your child excel. For more information about the Riley School of Dance check out their web site at: www.rileysschoolofdance.com or call 860-763-0279.

As Marion Walsh Riley looks down from heaven, I know that she has a smile on her face as she watches her dream continue.

Greg Stokes

THE CLASS OF 2007…WE ARE PROUD OF YOU!


In a couple of weeks Senior’s from Fermi High School and Enfield High School will put on their cap and gowns and parade past School leaders to receive their diplomas. There is no greater achievement in these young people’s lives, in which they worked so hard to gain.

I want to take this time to congratulate each and every graduate for 2007. You have shown that you are ready for the life ahead. This will be the beginning of adult life and, all the rewards that go with it.


Your parents, families, and friends are so proud of you. As a parent who has observed my children receive High School Diplomas and even college degrees I can tell you that your parents are watching you through tear filled eyes.

Many of you will go on to college. Some will go to job training for a career of your choosing. Many of you will enter the work force taking with you the work ethics you had during your high school days. No matter what you decide, I know you will be successful in all your endeavors.

Now for some advice as you transition from student to adult citizen.

As you enter the arena of life as an adult there are some things that I hope you will remember. In the coming years you will have many opportunities to make a difference in world. I hope that as you journey through the years you will give back to your community.

Here are some items to think about now that you are out of High School.

One, be involved in your community. I know that your career will take center stage, but the world around you needs your help. Offer your time and talent to better our society by helping charities. In Enfield we have so many worthy causes such as the Soup Kitchen, and the Enfield Food Shelf.

Maybe join the volunteer Fire Departments and make a difference my serving your town by protecting its citizens. How about helping at the 4th of July Celebration, our towns best community event. No matter what you decide I know you will be a great addition to your community.

Two, get involved in the political process. It’s your time to place your vote. More than just voting I would encourage you to get involved in politics. The Republican Party would invite you to join us and help to keep taxes low. The fact is you are the taxpayers of the future. Soon you will buy your first home and learn the hard lesson of property taxes. If you want to keep taxes in line with your future income, you have to take control of government. Who knows, maybe you will be the next Councilman, Board of Education Member, or even Mayor of Enfield. It is yours if you want it. Check out the Enfield Republican web page at www.ERTC.net

Third, keep God in your life. We are physical, emotional, and intellectual beings. However, we are also spiritual beings and in my opinion that is the most important part of our existence.

Many of you were brought to church as children and teens. Now it is time for you to get involved in your faith and help to keep the church of your choice healthy and strong. You will find that prayer is the key to a successful life. In good times or in bad, prayer is the component that will strengthen your daily life.

Last, remember to be thankful. As you enter this new time of life remember to show your appreciation to your parents and teachers. Both of these groups have assisted in your preparation for adult life. They taught you and watched out for you through your growing years. Make sure you thank them for all they have done, so far.

I have found that a thankful heart helps me deal with successes and failures. It keeps me humble because I know whatever I achieve in life it has been made possible by people around me. A thankful spirit will remind you that life is a community sport and you cannot do it alone.

To the class of 2007 at Enfield High and Fermi, congratulations. You have finished one part of life. Now go out and change your world.