Come on In Neighbor
Each year the event has been kicked off by an original poem by Alversia Pettigrew. Here's her original poem from 2005.
By Alversia Brown Pettigrew
Howdy, Neighbor! Welcome, and come on in-
We’ve been patiently and eagerly waiting, so, where have you all been?
We’re glad you are here to both witness and see this “LANDMARK DAY” celebrating our diversity,
Which is constantly growing in this city so rich in history.
There are warm and friendly people of many races, culture and creed,
And this type of event, in this very place, is, without a doubt, exactly what we need.
Our #1 neighbor from Independence was “Give ‘em Hell, HARRY S. TRUMAN, our 33rd U. S. President,
Who was oftentimes seen walking and talking to many of the Independence residents.
We were - literally - placed on the map by this great man;
So, we need to savor and cherish this city’s history as long as we can.
From HARRY and BESS
To the “NECK NEIGHBORHOOD” residents –
From HIRAM YOUNG’S wagon shop –
To MR. COMPTON and his famous POLLY’S POP
From the old train , which in days long ago, (I’ve heard people say),
Would “chug” through this very place where we’ve gathered today!
From the Community of Christ Church, and its many congregations –
To the Mormons, the Catholics, and other denominations.
Our GREAT CITY has grown into a beautiful rainbow;
And what we stand to gain here, today, is more than we will ever know.
So, let us CELEBRATE today; and get to know each other –
Celebrate your heritage, and that of your sister and brother!
Celebrate your being!!
Celebrate your history!
Celebrate your tomorrow!
Celebrate your diversity!
“COME ON IN, NEIGHBOR” - AND CELEBRATE!!!
Saturday, October 15, 2005