Food, fireworks and freedom. That pretty much sums up the Fourth of July for Americans, and Reedley residents are no exception in enjoying all three on Independence Day.

This July 4, it will be 237 years since the Second Continental Congress voted to approve the Declaration of Independence, which proclaimed that the 13 American colonies were independent from Great Britain.

To mark the holiday, The Exponent surveyed folks around town and asked two questions: What food do you most associate with the Fourth of July and what freedom is most important?

As for fireworks, the 62nd Reedley Spectacular will put on its traditional big show at the Reedley Sports Park. Gates open at 6 p.m. The pyrotechnics start at dark.

As for the top freedom, Andrew said: I believe that every freedom is the most important because youre not free unless you have all the freedoms. Right?

Gary and Brooke Carrasco said hamburgers, hot dogs and potato salad top their July 4 menu. Theyre easy and convenient, said Brooke Carrasco, 22. Gary Carrasco is 30.

Brooke Carrasco said freedom of speech is at the top of her list: Its the right to express your opinion and get your point of view across. You can disagree and you can make a change, she said.

Freedom of religion also is important. Everyone should be comfortable with what they live by, Brooke Carrasco said.

Heres how other people answered the food-freedom questions:

Allison Mackie, 18. Food: Anything barbecue. Its the easiest way to stay outdoors and cook at the same time. She most values the freedom of association. I can have my own friends and boyfriend. Its not like that all over the world. I worked once with a girl and her grandmother said, Youre not meeting someone quickly enough, and I want you to have children before I die so Im going to fly someone over for an arranged marriage.

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Fired up over freedom