Tribune editorial staff

Whatever you do this weekend, we had better not hear you say that you cannot find anything to keep you and your family busy.

Why? The reason is simple.

This weekend is the biggest weekend of the year in Ironton.

And we're not just talking about several graduation ceremonies that are scheduled over this holiday weekend.

We are talking, of course, about two Ironton traditions: The Ironton-Lawrence County Memorial Day Parade and the St. Joseph High School Charity Fair.

The Memorial Day Parade, the oldest continuously running in the country, almost needs no introduction. The draw of the parade seems almost endless. People from all over the county, region, state and even country, flock to the county to participate.

While the parade is great fun for the thousands who watch it, more important, the parade honors the memory of the men and women who protected our freedom. Despite changes that will come along with the years, the focus of the parade has remained ever steady.

The Charity Fair, like the parade, has become a homecoming of sorts for its participants. Filled with fun, wholesome family activities, the Charity Fair has enough variety to keep everyone in the family happy.

One important thing to remember about both events is that all of the fun and frolic doesn't come easy. A small group of dedicated individuals work hard to make it all come together. Their work is often overlooked, but is certainly appreciated.

So go to the Charity Fair and have a great time. Then head out to the parade on Monday and remember the wonderful country we call home and as the parade floats pass, say "thanks" for all of the freedoms we hold so dear. And if you see one of the people who have worked behind the scenes to make the events happen, say "thanks" to them too.