I love living in a small town. And there is little better than a small town parade, the kind of parade where anyone who wants to can join in. Today I braved the 90-degree weather to attend Blacksburg's annual Fourth of July parade. I found a shady spot, sat down and enjoyed myself thoroughly. 

Blacksburg is home to a large research university with 28,000 students. But, in the summer most of the students are gone and we are just a homey little place. During these months we bump into all our friends and acquaintances as we make our way downtown. Whether it is a movie (with free popcorn) for $4 at the Lyric on Monday night or having a bite to eat at the Cellar, I am guaranteed to run into someone I know The same cannot be said the rest of the year.

So, friends, here are a couple of photos that illustrate the small town America is still alive and well.