Weekly Feature: Hidden Gems

Today's Hidden Gem: Northeast Ohio Fireworks Displays

Even in today's tough economic times, most Northeast Ohio cities are trying to make an effort to have fireworks for their community or neighboring communities are banding together to celebrate Independence Day with parades, picnics, and fun festivities!

I just read a stat that places Ohio high up the ladder as a place having the most communities holding fireworks displays within a close, saturated, geographic area.

Of course, I deleted the top ten list, but I know I read it!

Let's think about this.

The Annual Cleveland Orchestra Concert & accompanying fireworks on Public Square just wrapped up a little while ago.

The Cleveland Indians will be having an extended fireworks show Friday night (15 extra minutes in honor of Michael Jackson) and then their 4th of July show Saturday night.

I always love watching the Cleveland Fireworks extravaganza (which is 7/4/09) because right down the road, you also view the Lakewood presentation.

One year my family spent the fourth of July in Vermilion with friends and during the drive home, we saw fireworks dancing in the sky the entire route home!

The 4th of July mimics Christmas or Thanksgiving in many ways. The original, underlying meaning of the holiday oftentimes gets lost in the shuffle of customs, rituals, or folklore handed down through the ages.

Fireworks, when handled properly and safely, are enjoyable and beautiful (a bit noisy!!).

However, I'm pretty certain Francis Scott Key, author of the Star Spangled Banner back in 1814, penned his words for deeper meanings and life experiences than depicted during current familial celebrations.

Prisoner Francis Scott Key witnessed battles with lives lost. He heard continuous 'gunfire,' what sounded rockets exploding all around during the midst of battle.

And when the dust cleared and he saw the American Flag still raised and waving in victory, his inspirational words told the rest of his story and STILL DO today!

"And the rockets' red glare,

the bombs bursting in air,

gave proof through the night

that our flag was still there."

So the next time you have the great privilege to witness an amazing fireworks show with your family and friends, and celebrate Independence Day, think about the 'real' meaning behind this holiday and, you too, will see why Northeast Ohio Fireworks Displays are this week's Hidden Gem!