The 4th of July (VBP style)

The older I get, the more I realize that moments of childhood magic/mystique and that special-something we once felt as children becomes more fleeting or difficult to re-capture as we continue to put the years behind us. Well, being able to celebrate the 4th of July while in Van Buren Point is NOT one of those instances. The feeling of those good old days is still very much alive and well here for children.


Here at the Point, the magic still flows, as the community comes together for one of the most unique slices of Americana you will ever find between the oceans of the fruited plains. A tradition dating back almost 50 years ago by a neighbor named Jim McKinley, something out of a Normal Rockwell painting occurs here once per year. Kids decorate their bikes, and ride in a bike parade in front of the community, while adults after saying the Pledge of Allegiance eat hot dogs and rub elbows with their neighbors in the morning sun.


Then the Brocton Fire Department use their fire truck to give the kids rides around the point. Having grown up experiencing this type of holiday ritual, I can say first hand that it gives the 4th of July a special type of meaning that many kids in this nation virtually have no similar type affection or knowledge of. Then again, not everyone is as blessed as we are to be here on this special day. It's one of my few favorite holidays, and always will be. Here are some pictures from this special day. Enjoy the smiles.

Other shots from today,