Patriots party like it's July 4th.

Byline: Susan Palmer The Register-Guard

SPRINGFIELD - You've got to like a liberty party where they let you in for free.

But that wasn't the main reason Pastor Chester Turrell sat basking in the shade at the Springfield's Light of Liberty Independence Day celebration. Turrell, who, as a veteran, didn't have to pay the $6 admission, was jazzed to see one of his favorite musicians, B.J. Thomas. Thomas was the headliner (if you don't count fireworks) of the celebration.

But Turrell, pastor of Apostolic Truth Ministries Worldwide, said he also wanted the opportunity to celebrate the freedom that Americans enjoy.

As far as Turrell is concerned, we could stand a few more freedoms.

Recent government crackdowns - from laws governing cell phone use to wire tapping - go too far, Turrell said.

Having served in the Army in Vietnam, Turrell said he is sensitive to such issues. Still, the Fourth is a good day to recognize the freedoms Americans do enjoy, compared with other nations, Turrell said.

"We still have a semblance of independence," he said.

And thousands took the time to enjoy it at Island Park at the Fourth of July party sponsored by the Springfield Utility Board. Shortly after the gates opened at 4 p.m. people began spreading blankets on the grass near the stage to listen to warm-up band Mystery Train play classic rock 'n' roll.

Others beat the heat by wading into a slow-moving stretch of the Willamette River nearby.

A host of activities for children included face painting, bucket truck rides and a display of snakes, tortoises and lizards, courtesy of the Oregon Herpetological Society.

A 27-pound boa constrictor wound around herpetological society President Steve Shallenberger's waist drew plenty of attention.

Creswell resident Ray Clowers stopped and watched, intrigued, as the snake appeared to notice him, its quick-moving tongue flashing in and out as it moved toward his arm.

Clowers said he'd been enjoying the holiday, particularly Creswell's parade earlier in the day. The Light of Liberty festivities in Springfield attracted him because they were family friendly, he said. And that included the reptiles.

"Now if these were spiders," he said, "I'd be out of here."

Organizers estimated a sellout crowd of about 6,000 people attended the event.