July 4 weekend is upon us, and most people’s plans are already in place.
    In one week, the nation observes Independence Day. It is always a time to celebrate the rich history of the nation that always stood as the exemplar of liberty.

Independence Day comes at a time when the economy is marginally improved compared to six months ago, a series of precarious international situations prevail in Iraq/Afghanistan, North Korea and Iran, and gas prices on the rise again.

Well, at least the holiday falls on a Saturday, and many of us still get to take off Monday the 6th.

Some people will work all weekend, and those who get to take time off and play will celebrate in different ways: the parade and other events in Hood River, camping or day trips, barbecues, or fun times on the rivers and in the forests, to name a few.

One celebration that ties everyone together, and is witnessed by thousands, is the annual Eyeopener Lions fireworks display.

The pyrotechnics are on again for the night of July 4, just like every year. (Keep in mind that the popular recreation area known as The Spit will be closed July 3-5 so the fireworks crew can set up, put on their display, and clean up.)

The display seems to get better every year, and organizers have promised “bigger and better” again for 2009.

The show is a public service. Who doesn’t like fireworks? Well, perhaps dogs and what few pure grouches there are out there.

For the rest of us, now is the time to support the July 4 show, in all its glory.

Fireworks are like public radio — free and enjoyed by many, with actual financial support coming from only a portion of the total who listen, or watch.

This year, become a subscriber. Put some money in the hat when the Lions come toward you at the fair, or better yet get a donation in the mail to Lions Fireworks, 1767 12th St., Hood River, OR 97031, No. 136.

Even a small donation helps — and you’re participating in a collective effort with a number of side benefits: it’s entertaining, it’s tradition, it’s patriotic.

Any way you look at it, sky-born pyrotechnics are a sure thing, above all.