There are few who live in the world who can truly enjoy the freedoms we have when friends and neighbors gather to celebrate a national holiday. We ask that you remember that today as the United States of America celebrates its 233rd birthday, the day our nation split from the rule of the Crown of England.

Whether we live in a small town or a big city, Americans mark the Fourth of July with activities that often include a parade, a picnic and, of course, a magnificent fireworks display.

Our own area gots its big holiday weekend off to a literal bang last night. Fireworks displays were held at many locations including Salem. Thanks to the Salem Rotary Foundation, the Salem Memorial and Patriotic Association and generous community members for their contributions.

Threre is a big fireworks show scheduled tonight at Firestone Park in Columbiana. There will also be a full schedule of activites there throughout the day. The annual boat parade will be held on Guilford Lake at 2 p.m. featuring themed boats. A hoiday fishing tournament is planned in New Waterford. Activities in Salem today will include the popular pet parade at 1 p.m. followed by a vehicle parade featuring bikes, wagons and strollers. Those parades will be held on Broadway Avenue.

Certainly many area families and friends will gather to share their own special holiday moments.

While we are celebrating this weekend, we ask that everyone take a moment to pause and remember the freedoms that we so often take for granted. We want everyone to remember the sacrifices that have been made and the vigilance that is necessary to ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy those freedoms. Attend a Fourth of July event. Have some fun with your friends, relatives and neighbors. Be thrilled by the fireworks. Enjoy being an American.