By Josh Smith
Anchor / WJHL
Published: June 29, 2009

As the July 4th Holiday approaches, we’re getting swamped with information about community celebrations and events.  To find a festival, parade, or fireworks show near you, go no further than this website.  Here’s the link:

http://www.tricitiesblogs.com/festival/archive/category/Holiday/

But some political fireworks will likely re-ignite as some in the Tri-Cities will take time on July 4th rally for change in government.

We’ve heard from the North East Tennessee Tea Party.  They’re planning a second rally (the first happened back in April) on Saturday from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. at the Old Kiwanis Park, 717 W. Market Street, Johnson City. 

According to a news release: “Our city elected officials to our national elected officials are growing the size and scope of our governments and violating our Constitutional rights.  No more!  We the Peole are taking a stand and reclaiming our freedom and independence.!“

We heard from another group about another rally to be held Saturday, July 4th - also in Johnson City.  It’s called an “Independence Day TEA Party to Unite Citizens of Northeast Tennessee.“  A group called “Citizens for Common Sense of Northeast Tennessee will rally in a parking lot adjacent to Faith Fellowship Church, 810 Guaranda Drive, Johnson City across from Freedom Hall.  A news release sent to the TV station says U.S. Congressman Phil Roe and Lt. Governor Ron Ramsey - both Republicans - will be at the event.

Our reporters who’ve covered similar events in the past say the crowds are predominantly but not exclusively Republican.

Best I can remember, rally’s like these didn’t used to happen around the Tri-Cities on July 4th, a day set aside for family and friends and food and fun. 

It’s another sign that, here in the land of the free and the home of the brave, an increasingly vocal group of Americans feels freedom is in peril, not because of an ominous threat from an overseas power, but because of the powers-that-be in the nation’s Capital.

Do you plan to attend?