PEOPLE

With the Fourth of July holiday upon us, people were asked what the holiday means to them.

Barbara Glass, 48, of Cape Girardeau, said: "Tradition. A celebration of our country's heritage. It's families getting together, fireworks and having fun."

Jesse Kinder, 16, of Cape Girardeau, said; "We declared our independence. It's a day to celebrate our freedom. I remember chasing my sister on the Fourth."

Greg Gilmer, 38, of Malden, said: "Families coming together. People coming to their senses. Both races need to sit down and think about what they're doing."

Rita Richareet, 62, of Perryville, said: "Taking time out for the military. A time for picnics, family get-togethers. I think about my brother. We lost him in World War II."

Veronica Butler, 69, of Cape Girardeau, said: "Fourth of July is honoring the ones who served for our country. All the people that served means a lot."

James Wright, 70, of Anna, Ill., said: "Mother making homemade ice cream. Getting together with family, playing baseball, fireworks, and eating dinner outside."