How about a week when we all just get along?

Most of us are looking forward to a long weekend, thanks to Independence Day falling on a Friday -- and our sympathy and gratitude to those who do have to work that day, providing services the rest of us depend on, holiday or no.

America's main summer holiday is a good time to enjoy the outdoors (we're hoping for good weather) and get together with family and friends.

Not many holidays offer such a consistent chance to interact with our neighbors, whether at a Fourth of July parade in Culbertson or a neighborhood barbecue.

It's always somewhat of a let down after the Fourth, and surprising how quickly the rest of the summer goes.

But here's an idea to make things a little bit better as the weeks go on.

One insurance company uses the Good Neighbor theme, but we think it would be a great motto for all of us to adopt for the week following Independence Day, as an inspiration for year-round behavior.

How would we observe such a week?

By being a good neighbor.

For starters, let's keep our sidewalks clear for those who want to go out for a stroll in the cool of the evening.

That includes not parking our car across the sidewalk, pulling weeds and trimming trees and bushes to give passers-by a clear path. That includes trimming overhanging limbs to provide an 8-foot clearance.

While we can still enjoy the fireworks, how about giving the neighbors, and their pets, a break by putting them away by 11 p.m., as city statutes require.

And, once the holiday is over, cleaning up the debris from the streets and sidewalk.

We all enjoy garage sales and charity events like car washes, but let's take down the signs once the event is over. They quickly look trashy, and it's disappointing to drive to an address only to find that the event happened a week or two ago.

Dogs? That's a whole 'nother editorial. Suffice it to say, nobody enjoys being barked at while out for a walk, but dogs can't be expected to be anything but dogs. A little understanding on both sides of the issue will go a long way.

Other suggestions?

Email editor@mccookgazette.com with your ideas or observations.