News Detail

39th Judicial District Observes Constitution Day In Franklin, Fulton Counties

Courts

September 19, 2025

Pictured (from left): Judge Jennifer Rogers, President Judge Shawn Meyers and Judge Garrett Page

CHAMBERSBURG, Pa. – On Sept. 16, the Judges of the Court of Common Pleas of the 39^th Judicial District, in collaboration with the Franklin County Bar Association and the Fulton County Bar Association Members, conducted ceremonies in each county courthouse celebrating Constitution Day.

Both celebrations advanced the effort of the Pennsylvania Judiciary and the Pennsylvania Bar Association to offer civics education to school-aged children and the communities at large. Thanks to the Pennsylvania Bar Association, Pennsylvania Bar Foundation and the local Bar Associations, pocket U.S. Constitutions and bookmarks were given to the attendees, and everyone was given the chance to sign the Constitution with a quill pen.

Franklin County offers a “Sensory Room” in its judicial center for individuals who have autism spectrum disorder or other special needs.

In Franklin County, the President Judge Shawn D. Meyers of the 39th Judicial Court of Common Pleas led the ceremony. He introduced the public to Franklin County’s first court facility dog, Officer Dudley, a 2-year-old golden retriever. He also shared access to the courthouse’s first “Sensory Room” for use by individuals on the autism spectrum or with other special needs.

Justin Shipp sang a special rendition of the national anthem. Judge Jennifer Rogers for the Court of Common Pleas of Luzerne County provided the keynote address, titled “E Pluribus Unum: From Many, One.” Judge Garrett Page for the Court of Common Pleas of Montgomery County provided special music.

In Fulton County, Judge Mary Beth Shank of the 39th Judicial District Court of Common Pleas led the ceremony. Retired Pennsylvania State Rep. Paul Schemel, Pennsylvania Bar Association President Kristen Hamilton and Fulton County District Attorney Eric Weisbrod offered remarks. Special music was provided by members of the McConnellsburg High School chorus.

Both courtrooms were filled to their capacity, and attendees indicated that they looked forward to future Constitution Day celebrations.

The Court thanks the Bar Associations for their support of its civic education initiatives. Based upon feedback, many educators, students, and members of the community are already looking forward to next year’s celebrations.