Fourth of July, Salem Style

This is K. I love this piece Salem Man wrote about the fourth. So instead of trying to write my own, I'm reposting his. Take care, have fun and be safe.


Update 7/5/08
After our street firework show, we perched ourselves atop a local hill to see the city's fireworks. All over the place, streams of colorful explosions sailed through the sky and thundered over Salem homes. As far as you could see across the valley, people were enjoying the Fourth of July.

7/2/8
Oregonians are lucky that our founding father's adopted the Declaration of Independence in July. It's one of only a few months that you can count on clear skies in the Willamette Valley. If you're perched upon a hill with a valley view, you know that several communities around Salem have their own shows including Salem Riverfront Park, Independence, Keizer, and Stayton. But we all know that the best show in town is the street fireworks show. Check out this neighborhood show I found while searching "Illahee fireworks." Does anyone know if this is the Ilahhee near Salem? The commentary is great.

Just about everyone has a neighbor who makes a special trip to Washington to purchase certain types of fireworks that are legal in that state, and are illegal in Oregon. Hundreds of these home pyrotechnic shows will slow traffic through town and cause pets to freak out. People will be burning their fingers reaching to light fuses that will set off a flaming chemical reaction lighting up the sidewalks. It's a good idea to keep a bucket of water and a garden hose at the ready and be sure to wait at least a couple of moments before approaching fizzled out fireworks. People choose to celebrate Indepencdence Day at home because they hate to fight the traffic and crowds of the big shows. They want to be able to have a drink and not have to worry about finding a designated driver. Even sober drivers risk being out on the road with drunks too stubborn to respect the safety of others. Independence Day is about the freedoms that our founding father's fought and died for. It's about achieving our goals and dreams on our own and in a manner that suits our individualities. We all(except people 17 and under) have a say in our government and we can vote for laws and lawmakers that will change our communities to make our lives more enjoyable and profitable. You are even free to not participate in civil debate. As you prepare for your Fourth of July celebration, whatever that may be, take some time and appreciate the freedoms that our country offers its citizens. Enjoy time with your family and share goodwill with your neighbors.