One of the most patriotic – if not the most patriotic – days of the year is approaching: Independence Day.

July 4 is a big day for me and my family. Not only is it a national holiday, it is also my dad’s birthday and my parents’ anniversary. We’ve never been the type of family to host big celebrations. Instead, we choose to spend this special time simply surrounded by the people we love the most: each other.

This year I won’t be able to see my parents on this special occasion because of the two-hour drive and the day falling in the middle of the work week. Don’t fret; I will see them three days later when the blissful weekend arrives. But I will get to spend it celebrating at Jam on Sloss Lake with all of the new friends and acquaintances I have made in almost a year of living here in Franklin County.

Jam on Sloss Lake is sure to be a success with headliner Darryl Worley taking the stage. Any evening spent with the musical lineup the city has prepared sounds like a pretty good way to spend the 4th, to me. I encourage everyone to attend the event and enjoy not only the entertainment but also the beautiful lake and park that we have here in Franklin County.

And if you’re able during the day or that following weekend, celebrate your independence with a stroll through the many natural resources in Franklin County, from the Dismals Canyon to the horse trails to the campgrounds with their boating and fishing opportunities. Or if you’re feeling nostalgic like myself, plop down in front of the TV and enjoy Will Smith take on a few aliens in the classic film “Independence Day.”