BBQ’s, fireworks, and people are finally all over the place. The summer season has officially begun in Sullivan County, and before we know it, Labor Day will be around the corner.
Before we reach that point, there are a lot of must dos that should be on everyone’s list, including a visit to the Forestburg Theatre, Bethel Woods, The Sullivan County Dramatic Workshop, our farmer’s markets, and street fairs and local events held throughout Sullivan County during the summer months.
A detailed list can be found by visiting our Visitor’s Associations website at scva.net.
Summers always bring a cosmic mix of diverse people to our region. Even though our roads are more crowded, and lines in stores are longer, we must be thankful they are.
Many towns and villages will be celebrating this weekend as we mark our Independence with firework displays, street fairs and festivities.
On Sunday former County Clerk Neil Gilberg along with the Town of Fallsburg and Thunder 102 will be holding the 8th annual Francis Curry Day event at Morningside Park saluting those who fight to protect our Independence.
The event honors Sullivan County veterans along with those brave men and women who are currently serving us in the military.
The park opens at noon with inflatable rides for the kids until 5pm. There will be a touching program at 3 PM with local officials and honored guests.
The Liberty Chamber of Commerce will be holding their 16th annual Fourth of July Parade and Street Fair Monday on Main Street starting at noon. It is an event not to be missed. This year there will be an exciting hot dog eating contest.
As we mark our Independence, we must be thankful to live in such a diverse nation made up of so many vibrant people. It is not difficult to understand why so many people leave their suppressed countries to settle in the land of the free and the home of the brave.
As we celebrate our Independence, I often think how in other countries the media is controlled by the government, and expressions of diverse opinions are denied. Modern technology such as cell phones, facebook and twitter are breaking through that barrier.
The publishers and editors of The Sullivan County Democrat fully understand the true meaning of freedom of speech. Twice a week they provide us with an outlet to express our viewpoints in a forum that is open, honest, and uncensored.
I am grateful to be afforded the opportunity to discuss the issues facing us. Hopefully these columns assist in creating honest dialogue throughout Sullivan County.
Although some of us might not understand differences or disagreements, we must learn to tolerate and respect others.
No matter ones viewpoints, race, creed, color, gender, age, education, wealth, sexual orientation, or religious ideology, we all strive for the same goals and quality of life. Even though some of our customs, political beliefs, and the way we approach life may vary, we are all the same.
Happy 4th of July and enjoy your hot dog!