I just heard on the radio that Independence Day is the biggest beer-drinking day in the U.S. Bigger, even, than St. Patrick’s Day (don’t get me started on that one) and New Year’s Eve.

But I can easily believe it. I mean, what’s more American than sucking down a couple of beers and grilling some meat over an open flame? Toss in some horseshoe pitching and you’ve basically described every cookout my parents ever had.

A bunch of loud and colorful explosions is a bonus.

And, of course, any reason to get together with friends is a good reason.

In any event, I wish all of our fellow Americans a Happy and Safe Fourth of July.