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On The Cover: Happy 4th Of Julyvision of our founders — a nation under God, indivisible — and the courageous individuals who continue to defend this vision at all costs. Their sacrifices ensure that future generations can enjoy the freedoms we hold dear.We hope this summer provides you ample opportunity to enjoy time with family and friends, while also remembering the profound reasons we celebrate our independence. It’s a reminder that freedom isn’t free, and it’s something worth cherishing every single day.By Sally KalosA s we celebrate the Fourth of July this year, and every year, it’s important to reflect on the true significance of Independence Day. The establishment of the United States marked an unparalleled milestone in world history — it was the first nation founded on the principle that everyone’s right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness are inherent and inviolable, not granted by any monarch,religious authority, or government. Our founding fathers crafted a Constitution that has been defended through the sacrifices of countless members of our armed services. These brave men and women have fought not only for freedom but for the ideals that have made this nation a beacon of hope for the world.As you enjoy cookouts and fireworks this Fourth of July, take a moment to remember and appreciate the originalGetting To Know The Declaration Of IndependenceThe Declaration of Independence is a formal document that served as the signatory colonies’ statement that they were now “free and independent States.” It is a vital document in American history.On July 1, 1776, delegates from the original 13 colonies, making up the Second Continental Congress, met in Philadelphia to vote on Richard Henry Lee’s motion for independence. After some deliberation, ultimately 12 of the 13 delegates voted in favor. In recognition of those 12 delegates, here are 12 facts regarding the Declaration of Independence.1. The drafted document was officially adopted on July 4, 1776, two days after freedom from Britain was approved. However, most delegates signed the document on August 2, 1776, while others signed on a later date. John Dickinson and Robert R. Livingston never signed the Declaration of Independence.2. John Dunlap was the official printer of Congress at the time. He worked all night and into the morning of July 5 to produce the large, single-sided sheet, known as a broadside. About 200 copies of Dunlap’s broadside were made.3. The University of Virginia owns two copiesGraduate Recognition: Ryan Masonof a rare early printing of the Declaration. It is on display in the Albert and Shirley Small Special Collections Library. It is believed the copy once belonged to George Washington. 4. Benjamin Franklin, George Read, Roger Sherman, Robert Morris, George Clymer, and James Wilson signed both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution. 5. The Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were hidden at Fort Knox during World War II, two weeks after Pearl Harbor was attacked.6. Despite what the movie “National Treasure” will have one believe, the message on the back of the document is visible and reads“Original Declaration of Independence dated 4th July 1776.”7. Richard Stockton, a lawyer from New Jersey, was a signer of the Declaration who later recanted his support of the American revolution. He subsequently swore his allegiance to King George III after being captured by the British.8. In 1989, an original Dunlap Broadside was found hidden behind a picture a Philadelphia man bought at a flea market for $4. It later sold for $8.1 million. Ultimately, 26 copies of the original prints have been found.Independence Day on July 4th, even though independence was accepted on July 2nd. 10. Early on, not everyone in America was supportive of the Declaration of Independence. Partisan politics led to discord. Federalist John Adams was feuding with Republicans and Thomas Jefferson. The anniversary date of the signing was not widely celebrated until the Federalists were no longer involved in politics.11. The one-year anniversary of Independence Day and the celebration of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence slipped the minds of Congress in 1777. When they remembered it was July 3rd, they planned a last-minute celebration on July 4th, and each year thereafter.12. John Trumbull’s painting “Declaration of Independence,” which was made into a lithograph replica by Ralph Trembly, hangs in the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol. It is a fictional depiction of the five-man drafting committee presenting their draft to Congress, and not the signing. The painting shows 42 of the 56 signees, since Trumbull couldn’t get likenesses of all involved. The men featured in the painting were never all in the room at the same time during the Declaration’s debate and signing.The Declaration of Independence is a key document in American history, and its words are celebrated each Independence Day.9. The United States celebratesGraduate Recognition: Julian BreymanRSubmitted By Michelle Masonyan Mason graduated Magna Cum Laude from Sandra Day O’Connor High School and will be attendingThe University of Texas at San Antonio in the Fall to play baseball and pursue a degree in Biochemistry.Ryan competed at the Varsity level in football and baseball at O’ Connor High School and earned 1st Team All District and 1st Team All Academic.He was awarded District 29-6A Pitcher of the Year his Junior Year and closed out his Senior Year earning District 29-6A MVP for Baseball and the THSCA All-State All-Star Selection as a Designated Hitter.In addition to Ryan’s athletic success, he also demonstrated leadership and excellence in the classroom. He is a member of the National Honor Society, the Superintendent’s Voice Forum and wasawarded a National Merit Scholarship and Academic All-State 1st Team for Baseball.Ryan is an amazing young man with a bright future. His family and friends are looking forward to cheering him on as he begins a new chapter playing Roadrunner Baseball. Congratulations Ryan! Birds Up!JSubmitted By Paula Breymanulian Breyman is a 2025 outstanding graduate of O’Connor High School. He attended HelotesElementary and Garcia Middle School. As Vice-President of both the Spanish Honor Society and the Thespian Honor Society, as well as a dedicated member of the National Honor Society, Julian has demonstrated exceptional leadership.His academic excellence is highlighted by his achievements in UIL State and Region Thespian Best Actor Awards, along with honors from Texas Cavaliers, Los Leones, and Vase Visual Arts Awards. Additionally, he was a JV Panther linebacker.In his spare time, he enjoys volunteering, filming, playing the piano, and spending quality time with family and friends.Julian has been awarded two full scholarships to the University of SouthernCalifornia, where he will double major in Business of Cinematic Arts, and Cinematic Arts Film Production.Congratulations Julian! I know your dad is smiling from Heaven. We love you, Mom, Samuel, and Isabella.6www.heloteshighlights.comJuly 2025