Expand horizons the on 4th of July

Let’s look at this as an opportunity.

There was some disappointment expressed by readers a few weeks ago when the Jay County 4th of July Committee announced it would not be hosting its annual parade, fairgrounds activities and fireworks on Independence Day.

We understand that feeling. But it’s also important to remember that each organization — Jay County Fair Board, Vintage Motor Bike Club, Tri-State Gas Engine and Tractor Association, the 4th of July committee and others — has different factors to consider when making decisions about whether or not to hold their activities and in what format. Everyone is doing their best to make good decisions as we deal with the coronavirus pandemic.

So, instead of focusing on disappointment, let’s turn this into a positive.

If you typically attend the parade in Portland, the activities or the fireworks at the fairgrounds, use this as a chance to visit somewhere else.

The first obvious options would be Dunkirk and Redkey, both of which will be holding fireworks July 4. Hartford City, Winchester and Bluffton are on the list as well.

And there’s no reason to limit yourself to just fireworks. Make a day of it.

Redkey’s activities will include its annual junior league baseball and softball tournaments, the re-opening of downtown antique shops and a “grand opening” for Val’s Bar and Grill. If you haven’t visited those spots, or Lil Bistro restaurant, Valentine Feed and Supply or the new Citadel Supply, stop in.

In Dunkirk, swing by and get a meal at Glass Capital Cafe or Pizza King.

If you’re heading out of Jay County, a couple of options are T’opher’s Place in Winchester (the restaurant is planning to open a second site at Portland Golf Club later this year) and The Filling Station in Berne. Or do some exploring and find other options of your own.

Beyond food and drink, or if your not quite ready for dining in at a restaurant, you could spend some quality time playing with your children, grandchildren, nieces or nephews at a local park or enjoy a hike at a nature trail.

The point is, just because the parade and fairgrounds celebration isn’t happening this year, doesn’t mean there still aren’t great ways to celebrate.

Get out and explore Dunkirk or Redkey, or both, especially if you haven’t spent much time in either community. Or broaden your horizons beyond Jay County.

July 4, after all, is about independence.

Enjoy your freedom to roam. — R.C.