Well, we don't actually need to celebrate by blowing stuff up. We could try...

Stargazing (the moon is just a tiny new crescent, won't outshine the stars).

Trying to sing the Star Spangled Banner.

Making a flag ice cream cake, with sparklers.

Reading the Declaration of Independence.

Practicing democracy. Until we get it right.

Reading (or writing) a Declaration of Interdependence http://www.shalomctr.org/node/656 )

Practicing community with humans, beasts and flowers. Until we get that right.

Whatever sets off the fireworks in body and soul, heart and mind.

-- Love doesn't just sit there like a stone; it has to be made, like bread, remade all the time, made new. --Ursula LeGuin

http://www.inlandnewstoday.com/story.php?s=2259

CALIFORNIA--The latest seasonal forecast for the country suggests that some relief is in sight in places that have been enduring drought.

There is optimism in the Southeast especially in Georgia, Alabama and the Carolinas.

Improvement is also expected in the Southern plains especially in southern and eastern Texas.

NOAA forecaster Douglas Lecomte says there is no areas outside of Hawaii were drought development is expected.

This is a real issue for Australia too - we are expecting further drought and heat (as if we don't have enough already), and floods in the north.

A report released today recommends Australia proceed with urgent implementation of an Emissions Trading Scheme (the Garnaut report).

For links and a brief analysis of the major challenge see http://canberrabureaucrat.blogspot.com/