Editorial: A great place for the Fourth

The fact remains that whether it is 1958 or 50 years later today - everyone across the region still loves a Fourth of July parade.

With a long holiday weekend beginning today, it also marks an unofficial homecoming for many families across the region. And, what a great time it is to visit the region as a full slate of activities certainly have something to offer everyone.

What would the Fourth be without sand castle creations that more resemble works of art, rubber duckies floating down the Thunder Bay River, proud veterans marching with the American flag to lead the parade, the aroma from neighborhood grills, corn on the cob, Alpena strawberries, history coming alive at the sanctuary, sweet music at the band shell and of course, fireworks overhead.

There is no better time to visit our corner of the world.

Whether you're a resident or guest, Northeast Michigan shines every Fourth of July and this is the perfect weekend to get out and experience for yourself all it has to offer.

Thanks to Norm and Lisa Stepanski for sharing with us a reminder of Alpena's Fourth celebration 50 years ago that were taken by Delmar and Doris Stepanski.

Somehow we bet that 50 years from today, on July 4, 2058, Alpena residents still will enjoy all that a holiday parade has to offer.