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Apprentice lineman with the Electric Distribution department, Tagun Fittje, was replacing damaged flags in the Broadway District last week prior to the holiday festivities. As part of flag etiquette whenever a flag is worn or damaged beyond repair the flag should be destroyed by burning it.

Apprentice lineman with the Electric Distribution department, Tagun Fittje, was replacing damaged flags in the Broadway District last week prior to the holiday festivities. As part of flag etiquette whenever a flag is worn or damaged beyond repair the flag should be destroyed by burning it.

Out with the Old

Area Veterans

As we celebrate Independence Day, we pause to honor the men and women from our communities who have served this country in uniform. The following list recognizes veterans and active-duty service members by branch, with names listed alphabetically within each branch.
From 13 stars to 50

From 13 stars to 50

From 13 stars to 50

The American flag’s long journey Most Americans know the story of Betsy Ross.As the legend goes, George Washington visited the Philadelphia seamstress in 1776 and asked her to sew a flag for the new nation.

Respecting the red, white and blue

As Americans prepare to fly the flag for the Fourth of July, it is worth remembering that the red, white and blue is more than a holiday decoration.The United States Flag Code lays out long-standing customs for how the American flag should be displayed, handled, folded and retired.

Flag etiquette at a glance

When to fly it: Any day, especially national holidays and patriotic observances. Night display: The flag may fly after dark if properly illuminated. Bad weather: Do not fly the flag in severe weather unless it is an all-weather flag.

In 1776, Oklahoma was still centuries from statehood

America was being born, but present-day Oklahoma was still Native land, open prairie and river country In 1776, the United States was declaring its independence, but Oklahoma was not yet Oklahoma.There was no Oklahoma City, no Tulsa, no Cushing, no Yale, no Drumright and no Mannford.

Heat and Hydration Safety

Oklahoma heat can be dangerous, especially during outdoor celebrations.Drink water before you feel thirsty. Take shade breaks often, especially during the hottest part of the day.Wear lightweight clothing, sunscreen and a hat when possible.

Pet Safety

Fireworks may be fun for people, but they can be terrifying for pets.Keep pets indoors before fireworks begin. Close windows, curtains and blinds, and turn on a television, fan or music to help cover the noise.Make sure pets are wearing collars with current ID tags.

Grilling Safety

Keep the cookout safe by giving the grill plenty of space.Use propane and charcoal grills outdoors only. Keep grills away from siding, deck rails, eaves, low branches and anything that can catch fire.Create a 3-foot “kid-free and pet-free zone” around the grill.