Displays This Independence Day Albeit Tightening of the Budgetary Belt.

The U.S. fireworks industry has become accustomed tofacing challenging times throughout the past decade and this year is no different, especially with the poor state of our nation’s economy. "Despite the current economic burdens, professional display fireworks companies will weather the economic rollercoaster and deliver their patriotic red, white and blue tributes to America across the country this Fourth of July," says Julie L. Heckman, Executive Director, American Pyrotechnics Association (APA).

Based upon industry reports, communities are fighting for their annual Fourth of July fireworks displays, sticking with previously approved budgets or cutting back ever so slightly to ensure that Independence Day goes forward as usual with a big bang. Heckman said, "small towns and big cities alike, realize the importance of continuing this annual tradition of providing their citizens with free entertainment to celebrate our freedom and independence." And with travel and tourism on the decline due to the economy, "home town celebrations have never been more important to bring communities together, give them hope, and restore optimism."

According to Heckman, the display fireworks industry has faced challenge after challenge ever since 9/11 – from increased security and burdensome background check requirements for personnel setting up and executing the 14,000 plus fireworks displays that annually grace our skylines each 4th of July, to rail embargoes and shipping crises. "The industry has been tested time after time and each challenge unites the industry, makes it stronger, and ensures that communities do not go dark on Independence Day," said Heckman.

What keeps the fireworks display industry going amid the constant sea of change and challenge?

According to James R. Souza, of Pyro Spectaculars by Souza, a fifth generation family owned and operated display company based in Rialto, California, "it’s all about America, our patriotism and our desire to honor our troops who fight so hard to keep us safe and protect our freedom.

My family, immigrants from Portugal, brought our family trade to the U.S., where we have found liberty, prosperity and freedom and we are appreciative of all that America the beautiful has bestowed upon us. For us, it’s not just about being a fireworks entertainment enterprise but it’s about giving back to our country so all Americans can collectively celebrate our great nation’s birthday."

About the American Pyrotechnics Association: The APA is the leading trade association of the fireworks industry. The APA supports and promotes safety standards for all aspects of fireworks. The APA has a diverse membership including regulated and licensed manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers, retailers, importers, suppliers and professional display fireworks companies.

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I’ve never really figured out what a cow does in a "loafin’ shed." I suspect I just don’t appreciate how hard a cow works just walkin’ ‘round eatin’ all the time.

I’m sure even the city folks have seen these structures. Usually three sides covered with tin and an open front. A place to get out of the weather or act as a wind break in colder weather.

If they called it a rain shed or a warmin’ shed it would make more sense to me.

It is possible that durin’ more primitive times other work animals were responsible for the term. I can see a horse or a ox loafin’ after a good days work in the field.

‘Course the jest of this is that I am thinkin’ of puttin’ up my own shed. I just can’t figure if it’s worth the effort.

This is some fact, but mostly,

Just Jake Talkin’.

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HERE’S A TIP

By JoAnn Derson

• "Here’s a great idea for sewers out there. Sew several towels together in a giant square for a family beach blanket. This works great, since it’s absorbent, and the large size gives you room for what our family calls a ‘sand border.’ That’s the area of the towel that get sandy from your feet." -- A.C. in California

• It’s officially grill season just about everywhere. To get yours ready time after time, follow these simple steps: After you use your grill, scrape excess gunk from grill and rub down grates with olive oil. Then spray with water. Let dry for the next time.

• Here’s another great grill tip from M.E. in South Carolina: "Instead of buying an expensive grill cover, cover your grill with a colorful plastic tablecloth. Use tablecloth clips to secure it around the grill. Get a matching one for your picnic or outdoor table."

• "I recently cleaned out my gutters. I needed something to use as a scoop, and I looked down and saw my son playing in his sandbox. He handed me a sand scoop, and it was just the ticket. It’s not a shovel, just a scoop. The end was rounded, so I could get all the dregs in the gutters. I have installed screens now, so I hope I won’t need to borrow tools from my kids again." -- B.L. in Texas

• Frozen grapes make terrific ice cubes for older children and adults. Try it for your next backyard barbecue or block party. Remove grapes from the stem, rinse and freeze until hard. Shake to separate and add to any drink that could use a light, grapey flavor -- cocktails, punch, juices and even cola!

• To prevent a soggy bottom on a cream pie, sprinkle the bottom of the crust with sugar before filling.