Christmas is my favorite holiday, and Independence Day is my second. It’s a time for backyard picnics, firecrackers and sparklers, outdoor games, and typically, retreating inside to enjoy the air conditioning for the part of the afternoon that gets unbearably hot. And, for those of us in Montgomery, it’s a time to enjoy the fireworks courtesy of the Montgomery Volunteer Fire Company. The fireworks have been held on the 3rd of July in recent years, and it’s arguably the best night of the summer in our little town.

July 4, 1776 was the day our independence was declared, and the only reason the date has held its significance is because every generation since then has had members who stood up for our freedom. Whether they served in wartime or peacetime, they are the reason we have remained a free nation. Thank you to all of you who have served.

Please remember that loud firecrackers can be distressing to veterans with PTSD. If someone who served in combat lives near you, please talk to them ahead of time and be respectful of their needs.

Fourth of July week is the perfect time to honor the past and present Armed Forces members with a Hometown Hero banner. Order forms are available at Montgomery Weis, Montgomery Borough building, Clinton Township building, and Brady Township building.

THOT “We hold these truths to be self-evident: That all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights; that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness . . .” Thomas Jefferson

Montgomery events

The Summer Alive program at Montgomery Park runs from 9:00-12:30 on Mondays through Thursdays. Breakfast and lunch are served for free. Parents need to fill out a permission slip for children. Additional information about the program can be found at www.summeralive.org.

Weds. June 29, local children are invited to attend the Summer Reading program at Montgomery Public Library to paint wooden trays. There will not be a meeting during the week of the 4th, but the program resumes on July 13when the children will be crafting wind chimes.

Sun. July 3 the annual Montgomery fireworks are scheduled at dusk at the carnival grounds. In case of rain, the event will be rescheduled for Tues. July 5. In addition to setting off the fireworks, the Montgomery Volunteer Fire Company will be selling refreshments from their newly renovated concession stand. Becky’s Soft Serve will be there as well.

Thurs. July 7, there will be a Cruise-In at the Clinton Township Volunteer Fire Company on from 6 to 9 p.m. The event is free, and food and beverages will be sold.

Thurs. July 9 Red Cross Blood Drive, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., First Baptist Church of Elimsport, 16838 State Route 44, Allenwood