Katie Couric's Notebook: Fourth of July

There are no crackling fireworks in the skies...and no marching bands playing Sousa.

The economy is raining unfortunately on those parades.

Bismark, Missouri canceled the annual Freedom Fest. The town can't afford the 10-thousand-dollar price tag for the party. Moline, Illinois canceled its Summerfest, as well.

In places where the show will go on, the rocket's red glare may be less colorful, the finale less spectacular. Instead of a professional band, some communities will have students entertain for free. Others are organizing art shows, historical re-enactments or poetry contests.

It stinks to miss out on the fireworks, but the holiday is about celebrating the freedom we all have in this great country. And no one can extinguish that flame.

Have a happy and safe Fourth of July!

That's a page from my notebook.
I'm Katie Couric, CBS News.