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Enjoy fireworks — following protocols

We ask everyone to take a moment during the next couple of days and remember that there are few nations in the world where citizens are able to gather to celebrate the freedoms residents of the United States of America too often taken for granted.

It’s an important thought as our nation prepares to celebrate its 244th birthday on Saturday.

The Fourth of July is a true national holiday, one that is celebrated from the smallest township to the largest city. It’s a day of picnics, family gatherings and summer fun, all played out against the backdrop of American flags and patriotic music.

The backdrop for this year’s commemorations will be far different from what we have seen before. In addition to the many issues our society is trying to find way to work through, we are facing restrictions brought on by concerns about COVID-19. That has forced communities throughout the Tri-State Area as well as the rest of the country have been forced to cancel their annual displays.

Those who attend the presentations that are held will be required to follow safety protocols and practice social distancing.

Steubenville will hold its annual fireworks Thursday at Historic Fort Steuben, with the display scheduled to follow concerts by the Fossils at 7 p.m. and the Ron Retzer Trio at 8 p.m.

Wellsburg, meanwhile, will present its display Friday and Toronto has scheduled its annual display for Saturday.

While the Independence Day holiday is a reason to celebrate, we hope that everyone will take a moment to remember the thousands of American men and women who are standing guard around the world as members of our armed forces.

Their sacrifices and vigilance ensure that future generations of Americans will continue to enjoy the freedoms we do today.

If you an opportunity to do so this week, we hope you will marvel at the fireworks and enjoy being an American.

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