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Newspaper
Bennington Banner
Location
Bennington, Vermont, United States of America
Date
Jul 03, 1976
Page
4
The Bennington Banner is issued daily except Sundays and holidays by Banner Publishing Corporation at 125 Main Street, Bennington Vermont 05201.
Editorial collection dated July 3 1976 notes the bicentennial spirit and presents staff observations on independence liberty and the Fourth of July. The piece acknowledges the many contributors behind the newspaper including editors, photographers, reporters, printers and support staff.
In this anniversary year the writer urges skepticism and curiosity as core to democracy. Freedom to write and read must pair with questioning attitudes and respect for other views. Promoting the marketplace of ideas is the constructive aim for this newspaper and readers.
The speaker reflects on the 1776 ideals of life liberty and the pursuit of happiness versus 20th century realities. He notes longer healthier lives, enduring freedom with personal choice, and the mixed moral judgments of history while feeling fortunate to have lived through this era. He contrasts myths of progress with individual rights and gratitude for personal liberty.
A childhood memory at a sea rock picnic ends with a brother lighting a cherry bomb box to the point where a chain of firecrackers erupts. Children crowd the dangerous display as quiet danger grows into a pivotal moment of adolescence.
A reflective column argues Americans forget past mistakes, notes Lillian Hellman on McCarthy era harms, and warns the Bicentennial risk of myth making. It recalls Nixon’s ascent and urges a cold clear self vision to avoid repeating scoundrel moments.
A man recalls his father born on July 2 and notes regret his mother could not delay the birth by two days to share a national birthday. This year he laments the even tougher task of preceding the historic date by 48 hours.
The Bennington Banner lists three official observations for July 4 1876 in Bennington Vermont with St Peters Te Deum service at 7 and 730 am, ground breaking for a memorial tablet to be dedicated August 16, and a prayer at Old First Church. Cushman quotes a restrained modern assessment. A Troy parade with Bennington firemen and guards is also described.
A narrator recalls a hometown Fourth of July parade from childhood to adulthood. He describes the crowd, the uniforms, the drums and trumpets, and the sense of belonging. He reflects on America's founding ideals and his evolving view as a parent watching his children march by with pride.
A reflective piece on the bicentennial value of the American republic. It contrasts revolutionary ideals with modern voter participation, noting high early political engagement and current disenfranchisement, and urges citizens to fulfill the Founders’ vision of a government answerable to the people.
Philadelphia is described as the cradle of liberty and a place of Enlightenment design yet now seething with corruption and decay. The author contrasts ancient ideals with modern urban squalor, noting crime, commercialism, and urban contrasts as Philly’s uneasy present. He references Ben Franklin, Eakins, and Rizzo while comparing Vermont and other states to illustrate cultural shifts.
Dorothy Belniak reflects on Independence Day as a blend of religion and military pride. She notes the holiday’s wholesome celebration and warns patriotism’s power can both build a nation and destroy it, urging mindful reverence as Americans observe the anniversary.
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