Pat Shingleton for July 4, 2012

Because of storm damage, folks in the Northeast may be spending July the Fourth in cooler basements. As noted in previous July 4 columns, our Independence Day included a large backyard picnic. Washtubs stocked with drinks were chilled from ice house blocks. On the grill, foot-long hot dogs and burgers combined with relative-delivered potato salad, baked beans and casseroles. And the basement, that’s where Grandpap chilled the watermelon. After participating in a baseball game or a parade, the backyard provided Wiffle ball games, volleyball or touch football. From Longview Drive in Ellwood City, we looked out over a valley of fireworks blasted skyward from the Conquenessing Country Club and the Blue Sky and Spotlight 88 Drive-In Theatres. We’d trek to J&T Frozen Custard Stand to wrap up the day. Enjoy the Fourth. Fastcast: Sizzling.