My hometown is an interesting place. I like it a lot. I have to say that the fourth of July has never meant that much to me. Fireworks are always a disappointment, I have never found the American flag to be aesthetically appealing, and I don't eat barbecue. Once again, however, a venture into downtown has reassured me that I am living in the right place. I had heard rumors that the local pirate bar was having a PatRiot party and bikini contest, and my husband and I secured a "press pass" by calling the bartender and reminding him of how much he loves us. So we ventured in, cameras in hand, to record for posterity just what a wonderful place Asheville, NC can be...especially when the freaks decide to make the best of a traditional American holiday...