CHAMBERSBURG – Judges in Pennsylvania’s 39th Judicial District partnered with local bar associations to host Constitution Day ceremonies in Franklin and Fulton counties, drawing capacity crowds and emphasizing civic education for school-aged children and the broader community.
The events, held Sept. 16 in each county’s courthouse, celebrated the signing of the U.S. Constitution on Sept. 17, 1787. Organizers distributed pocket Constitutions, bookmarks and quill pens to attendees, who signed a ceremonial copy of the document.
In Franklin County, President Judge Shawn D. Meyers presided over the ceremony. He introduced the public to Officer Dudley, a 2-year-old golden retriever serving as the county’s first court facility dog. Meyers also highlighted the courthouse’s new “Sensory Room,” designed for individuals on the autism spectrum or with other special needs.
Justin Shipp performed a special rendition of the national anthem. The Honorable Jennifer Rogers, a judge from the Court of Common Pleas of Luzerne County, delivered the keynote address titled “E Pluribus Unum: From Many, One.” The Honorable Garrett Page, a judge from the Court of Common Pleas of Montgomery County, provided special music.
In Fulton County, The Honorable Mary Beth Shank led the proceedings. Retired Pennsylvania State Rep. Paul Schemel, Esq., Pennsylvania Bar Association President Kristen Hamilton, Esq., and Fulton County District Attorney Eric Weisbrod, Esq., offered remarks. Members of the McConnellsburg High School chorus performed special music.
Both ceremonies filled courtrooms to capacity, with attendees expressing enthusiasm for future celebrations. The court thanked the Pennsylvania Bar Association, Pennsylvania Bar Foundation and local bar associations for their support in advancing civic education initiatives.
“Based upon feedback, many educators, students and members of the community are already looking forward to next year’s celebrations,” the court stated in a release.
Photos from the events showed participants, including those with special needs, engaging in the activities. The ceremonies underscored the district’s commitment to fostering constitutional awareness among youth and residents.
