Cord Byrd: “In a few days, this fair city will throw its annual birthday party. Truly, the Independence Day celebration here in the…”

“In a few days, this fair city will throw its annual birthday party. Truly, the Independence Day celebration here in the Nation's Capital, is like nowhere else in the country. It is larger, louder, and features a fireworks display to amaze and delight even the most jaded of watchers. And I think we all have become jaded. We have gotten away from the old-fashioned patriotism that marked our July 4 holidays of yesteryear. In the national capital, Independence Day really should be a show stopper--a sight and sound extravaganza fit for TV viewing. But, in all honesty, I must admit that it is not my cup of tea. No, I prefer to recall a simpler time and smaller celebrations back in the hills and hollows, and the rural towns of my native West Virginia.”