Document text
Editorial: Fourth fun - do it safely It happens once a year and it's the single finest day in Ashland, regardless of the weather. It starts with a run, and it ends with a bang. You know it's happening in front of your eyes when a sea of heads suddenly turns at the spotting of specks on the horizon. They float far away, but in moments, gleaming, screaming and oh-so-fast fighter jets from Klamath Falls' Kingsley Field rocket over Siskiyou Boulevard to kick off the annual old fashioned parade. From there, it's a kick in the pants all day long, especially downtown. Whether you're mingling on Main Street for the parade or strolling through Lithia Park, or you're enjoying watching people hailing from places unknown crowd onto the Plaza - you can't beat it. It's the Fourth of July, and it arrives in less than a week. Don't Tread on me That patriotic slogan has renewed meaning this year, as last-minute turf planting will put a stop to the recent practice of marking territory with blankets and chairs the day before. The new grass will die if covered - so don't. The city will confiscate blankets and such on the third, and the grass will get a healthy dose of water in preparation for the inevitable trampling it will take on the Fourth. If the grass still dies and must be replaced at a cost to Ashlanders, the city really only has itself to blame for a lack of planning. Hopefully, this is a non-issue. Grand Marshal Few have given as much to the city over the decades as this year's parade grand marshal, Frank D'Entremont. A former cop, a war veteran and now the city's volunteer coordinator, Frank has served Ashland and his country most of his 87 years. In our book, D'Entremont is a grand marshal every day. Lead the parade proudly, Frank. Fireworks One of the great things about the Fourth is the way it combines community traditions with family traditions. Setting off fireworks at home is one of life's great joys, and part of the thrill likely comes from the sulfur-tinged hint of danger involved. But a hint is really all you need. Use your head. Follow directions, adhere to safety suggestions, don't set anything ablaze - police and firefighters will have enough of a hectic day as it is. Make sure the Fourth stays fun and safe. LINKS: DAILY TIDINGS: Main | News | Sports | Obituaries | Opinion | Columnists | AP News | Subscribe | Archives | Weather | Classifieds | Contact Us | Privacy REVELS: Main | Calendar | Dining | Movies | T.V. OTHER: Road Cams Copyright 2003 Ashland Daily Tidings 541.482.3456. 1661 Siskiyou Blvd., Ashland, OR 97520. Ottaway Newspapers, Inc. - Advertisers -