Snapshots of America

A White House Fourth
Fourth of July festivities at the White House, although bigger than most Independence Day parties, feature the same sort of hospitality found at more modest celebrations, according to Deesha Dyer, White House deputy social secretary.
This year, the Obamas will host a barbecue for military families on the South Lawn, as they've done every year.  "There are games for kids -- it's always fun to watch kids play with the [hula] hoops -- musical performances and, of course, the celebratory fireworks over the Washington Monument," said Dyer.
What's on the menu? Summer foods, including grilled chicken, hot dogs, hamburgers, fruit, and potato salad.
Laser Focus on the Future
Laser light shows may not have the bang, whoosh or crackle of fireworks, but they're gaining in popularity. Proponents say they are better for the environment. They can also be less expensive and safer than fireworks, especially in states with high wildfire risks. For recent Independence Day festivities, communities in California, Texas and other states passed up the old-fashioned fireworks, opting for these tamer strands of light in the sky.
Ignite the Touch Screen?
Fireworks are an essential part of the United States' Independence Day celebration. Every year, a third of the country watches one of more than 14,000 fireworks shows. That makes the fireworks industry happy: Its total revenues nearly doubled to $965 million between 1999 and 2012.
     With a computer chip in almost every shell, sparkling light shows have become more elaborate. Computer-controlled blasts can spell words and form images like peace signs or smiley faces.
     With an appropriate app, people who want to avoid the crowds can create virtual shows at home on smartphones or tablets: By touching the screen, they determine where a firework explodes.