Events to help celebrate Independence Day

On Friday this nation will celebrate its Independence Day. It's a day to remember our country's founding and the men and women who have fought to preserve freedom. There is no more patriotic day than July 4.

To help celebrate the holiday, there are several local events lined up.

Jackson will mark its 200th anniversary this week with two days of activities. Jackson Mayor Barbara Lohr has a column today highlighting the activities, ranging from mud volleyball, a car show, fireworks and many others.

The city has held several festivities this year to mark the founding, but the upcoming events -- coinciding with the bicentennial and the Fourth -- should be memorable.

In Cape Girardeau, a patriotic program will begin at 8 p.m. Friday on Spanish Street at the Common Pleas Courthouse. Jerry Ford's band will entertain with patriotic music. Service members will be honored, and the Southeast Missourian will present its Spirit of America award. It ends with a fireworks show on the river synchronized to music on 960KZIM, 1400KSIM and other River Radio stations.

The activities and fireworks are sponsored by the city of Cape Girardeau, Isle Casino, River Radio, the Southeast Missourian and other businesses.

If you plan to use fireworks at your home, please use caution.

We hope you have a fun and safe Independence Day.